Lyme Life Magazine - Winter 2019

THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO DORSET’S MOST POPULAR RESORT December 2019

Christmas shopping guide The finest food and drink Pick up your

FRcoEpyE

A nostalgic look at Lyme’s history

WIN A CHRISTMAS HAMPER WORTH £100!

No excuse for not celebrating in Lyme WELCOME to the last issue of the Lyme Life Magazine for 2019. For Lyme, as popular as ever, it’s been another hectic year as we look back on those glorious summer days before getting into the Christmas mood and preparing for the challenges the New Year will bring.

There’s no excuse for not enjoying Christmas in Lyme, the town being well served by excellent shops and a galaxy of eating and drinking outlets to suit all palates and pockets. Look no further than the pages that follow to make the most of this festive time.

We highlight some of the more traditional events such as the turning on of the Christmas lights and the Christmas Day and New Year swims, together with a list of all that’s happening in and around Lyme as we move into winter. And there’s even a chance of winning a £100 festive hamper.

Guest writer Sophia Mosley takes you on a tour of Lyme’s historic Guildhall, being the first person to step inside the town’s old jail for many years, and in our nostalgia pages we recall the day when Princess Alexandra paid a visit to the town.

Compliments of the season to all our readers and advertisers and we look forward to recording Life in Lyme in 2020.

Philip Evans, Publisher Editor Francesca Evans

Published by Lyme Regis Media Ltd.

Words Francesca Evans, Philip Evans and Sophia Moseley

www.lyme-online.co.uk edit@lyme-online.co.uk 01297 442781

Photography Richard Austin Sales Executive Debbie Conibere

@LymeLifeMag /LymeOnlineUK /lymeonline

CONTENTS

PAGES 4-5 Christmas in Lyme Get in the festive spirit as Lyme prepares for all the top Christmas events

PAGES 6-10 The Perfect Present Find original gifts and unique experiences for your loved ones this Christmas PAGES 10 Christmas Hamper Competition Don’t miss your chance to win this top quality festive prize PAGES 12-13 Lyme Nostalgia Philip Evans shares his memories of the Charter 700 festival in 1984 PAGES 14-15 A Look Around Lyme’s Iconic Guildhall Guest writer Sophia Moseley explores one of the town’s most historic buildings PAGE 16 Take a Dip this Christmas and New Year Make a splash this festive season with the Christmas Day Swim and Lyme Lunge PAGE 18 Inspired by Land, Sea and Sky A special focus on the work of Lyme Regis artist Julie Oldfield PAGES 21-30 Festive Food & Drink Feast on the best food and drink establishments Lyme Regis has to offer PAGE 30 What’s On Get all the dates in your diary for events in and around Lyme Regis this winter

Built in 1601 as a Coaching Inn, the hotel has been extensively refurbished, yet stillll retains much h off its h history andd un nique charm. h Oakk bbeams, woodd panelling and an open fire help to create a warm, welcoming and comfortable atmosphere.

The Royal Lion Hotel is a perfect base froom which to explore the local area, situated less than 100 metres from the seaa. Privately owned and managed, The Royal Lion Hotel has gained an enviaable reputation for its friendly service, first class cuisine and impressive leisure l facilities, including an indoor swimming pool, Jacuzzi and saunaa. There is a private car park and wifi is available in the various lounges thrroughout the Hotel.

The Royal Lion Hotel prides itself on its dining facilities, offering a variety v of options to suit guest’s requirements irements in The Oak Room Restaurant, Restaurant The Inn or The Monmouth Lounge. ge.

Wee pride ourselves on provid W providing ding an excellent standard of customer service, s , cleanliness and guest satisfactiion. In addition, our kitchen brigade has a great passion for producing ou utstanding quality dishes, whether you are looking for formal dining or tradional t fayre.

Wee have also attained a silverr accreditation with the Green Tourism Boardd W for our vast improvement andd awareness of the environment.

Broad Street, Lyme Regis, Dorset, DT7 3QF 01297 445622 www.royallionhotel.com enquiries@royallionhotel.com

e m y L n i s a m Christ I

T’S that special time of year again when Lyme Regis really starts to twinkle. And spirits are expected to be especially high on Saturday, November 30th as the town officially begins its countdown to Christmas with the colourful lantern parade and switch on of the Christmas lights.

The lighting up of Lyme never fails to draw crowds and gasps of wonder from onlookers soaking up the seasonal atmosphere.

The festive extravaganza is set to be bigger and better than ever as organisers, Lyme Regis Christmas Lights Committee, have for the first time been purchasing their own sets of lights, including a new ammonite centrepiece to be displayed across Broad Street.

Christmas lights committee member Rob James commented: “We’re hoping as many people as possible join us to celebrate the beginning of the festive season in town.

“The committee are dedicated to putting on a display

PAU L S

the town can be proud of and we are very grateful to our sponsors Lyme Bay Holidays, Swim, St Austell Brewery and Toad Hall Cottages for their support along with many other local businesses, the town council, Rotary Club, and members of the local community who have generously contributed to our fundraising efforts.”

The afternoon celebrations commence with the Christmas lantern-making workshop at Lyme Regis Baptist Church Hall at 3pm. This is a free event with all materials provided and is great fun for kids and all the family.

Prizes will be awarded for the best lanterns in each age category with judging taking place at 4.30pm.

Lanterns made at home are also welcome to enter the competition.

Following the judging, the lantern parade will make its way down Broad Street from 5.15pm, with the cross-street lighting displays illuminating as the parade

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passes underneath. Lyme Regis Majorettes will be adding a bit of extra sparkle to the proceedings with an energetic routine, followed by Father Christmas, who will be accompanied by the mayor, town crier Alan Vian and local resident Andrew Hodder, who has been selected to switch on the lights for his sterling efforts in selling raffle tickets on behalf of the lights committee.

The parade will eventually reach the iconic Christmas tree at Bell Cliff, donated by Penn Farm, where the draw for the raffle will take place followed by the switch-on at 5.30pm.

Entertainment will be provided by ukulele band Lyme Luggers and Lyme Morris dancers.

The lights will continue to sparkle until the first week of January, taking the town into a bright New Year.

More information about the Christmas Lights Committee can be found at lymechristmaslights.co.uk

Celebrate around the tree J

OIN one of Lyme Regis’ longest running Christmas traditions at the annual Carols Around the Tree event on Monday, December 23rd.

Organised by the Rotary Club of Lyme Regis, the event always attracts a big crowd and this year will raise funds for Julia’s House Hospice.

Traditional carols around the town’s Christmas tree in Broad Street will be

accompanied by Lyme Regis Town Band from 7pm and hot soup will be served in the interval courtesy of the Royal Lion Hotel.

The Rotary Club will also be holding Christmas street collections will take place on Friday, December 20th, Saturday 21st and Monday 23rd in Lyme Regis, and also on Monday 23rd in Charmouth.

Sign up for Christmas Tree Festival YME Regis Regatta & Carnival Com- which should be decorated between L mittee and Lyme Regis Baptist 4.30pm and 6pm on Thursday, DecemChurch are joining forces once again to host the popular Christmas Tree Festival.

This year’s festival will be held in the Baptist Church hall from Friday, December 20th to Sunday, December 22nd, showcasing Christmas trees decorated by various local organisations.

Local groups interested in taking part are now being asked to sign up. An entry fee of £15 includes a small tree

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A Tree-Mend-Us Christmas

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HE Word Forest Organisation is an international reforestation charity based in Lyme Regis, run by local environmentalists Tracey and Simon West.

Their small team are usually busy raising funds to plant trees, build schools and facilitate education in Kenya.

To elevate critical awareness of the planetary value of trees, they recently released a free to watch documentary called ‘#TreesAreTheKey’, narrated by Oscar-winning actress Kate Winslet.

It explains why we need more trees in the tropics and why we must take care of the people tending the forests - visit treesarethekey.com to watch it.

Fundraising community screenings of #TreesAreTheKey have so far been hosted in Lyme Regis, Chard, Bridport and Beaminster resulting in the planting of 1,000 trees, three degrees south of the equator in Kenya.

In a tiny handful of years, they'll have absorbed approximately 250 tonnes of CO2 and other pollutants. The commodities from the forest will also help

alleviate hunger and poverty too.

This week marks the launch of Word Forest's 'Tree-Mend-Us Project' a multifaceted campaign which includes plans to plant a tree in Lyme for every resident and hopes to twin it with another in Kenya.

They're also kindly requesting anyone who is enjoying a real Christmas tree this year, to enable them to plant three more to replace it, by donating £10 to their charity. For less than a round of Christmas drinks, it'll help to lighten your festive footprint and keep the planet breathing.

CEO Tracey explains: "Wildfires and deforestation continues to wipe out vast swathes of urgently needed canopy cover. We absolutely must plant fast growing forests in the tropics to replace them.

“Please give our planet and ultimately your families, the most ethical, eco-friendly gift of all; life-giving trees."

Visit the website wordforest.org for further details.

ber 19th and removed before 11am on Monday, December 23rd.

Those taking part are encouraged to decorate their tree to reflect the work of their organisation, and can leave leaflets, information and collection tins at the base of the tree.

For more information or to book a tree, call Alan and Lynne Vian on 01297 442220 or email alan@alanvian.co.uk

Pick your perfect tree at Penn Farm

TART your Christmas celebrations by picking the perfect pine from Penn Farm. The Chapman family has been growing Christmas trees at their Monkton Wyld farm, between Lyme and Charmouth, since 1976.

As well as providing a range of Christmas trees for our own homes, they also provide the huge 30ft Norway spruce, which is the centrepiece of the Lyme Regis festive illuminations in Broad Street every year.

Penn Farm Christmas trees provide other species including the non-drop Nordmann fir, but it’s the spruce which are the most successful with the farm’s north-facing aspect, perfect for the healthy growth of its full green foliage.

They are also mostly left alone by the native roe deer, who find them less palatable than other varieties with softer needles.

Fir or fern, spruce or sprig, there is nothing quite like a traditional evergreen Christmas tree to give the perfect aroma and ambience of the festive season.

Find Penn Farm on the A35 between Charmouth and Raymonds Hill.

Santa Claus is back in town

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ANTA Claus will be back in town on Monday, December 9th and Tuesday, December 10th.

The charity Santa sleigh, organised by local residents Neville and Sarah Causley and their family, will be touring the streets of Lyme, playing music and bringing festive cheer to children and grown ups too!

The sleigh will this year raise funds for Lyme Regis Christmas Lights Committee, with times and the route to be announced soon.

Traditional Christmas carollers will also be touring Lyme Regis on Sunday, December 15th and all are invited to join in.

Sarah has launched Lyme Regis Community Carols, inviting all to join in and bring festive cheer to the streets of Lyme.

Everyone is invited to take part with a route planned around the main residential area of Lyme from 5pm on December 15, finishing at Woodmead Halls with warm drinks and mince pies.

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Penn Farm Christmaas Trees Song sheets will be provided and there will also be two optional, informal rehearsals at Lyme Regis Baptist Church between 5pm and 6pm on Sundays, December 1st and December 8th.

The carol singers will be collecting donations en route, which will also be in aid of Lyme Regis Christmas Lights Committee.

For more details, visit the Facebook page facebook.com/lymecommunitycarols/

Christmas treess for sale

On the A3 35 between Charmouth and Ray ymonds Hill

Phone 07765 277200 2

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The perfect present

Find original gifts and experiences for your loved ones this Christmas

Coombe Street Gallery

THE Coombe Street Gallery is a treasure trove of one-off gifts and unique home interiors.

Their latest original piece, proving particularly popular with customers, is the shop’s new map of Lyme Regis, commissioned especially for the Coombe Street Gallery and designed by artist Clair Rossiter.

The map (pictured below) is full of colourful details, including local landmarks, flowers, wildlife and even famed fossil hunter Mary Anning makes an appearance! Available to buy as a framed print, greeting card or on a bag, it makes the perfect souvenir for holidaymakers or a gift for those with Lyme at heart.

With the help of the map you’ll be able to explore the history that surrounds the Coombe Street Gallery, based in the heart of ‘Old Lyme’. Coombe Street was the town’s original high street and nearby attractions include the old post office and police station, the Town Mill, Dinosaurland, Guildhall and Lyme Regis Museum.

The Christmas season is now in full swing at the Coombe Street Gallery, offering a range of decorations and cards by local artists, as well as unique gifts and festive décor.

Find something special to complete your seasonal party look with the shop’s large choice of stylish jewellery, all solid silver using a variety of stones and mixed metals, and all available at modest prices.

With an ever-changing selection of coastal crafts, art, ceramics and interior goods you’ll be sure to find that finishing touch for your home.

Owners Sue and Andy Davies will be marking two years at the Coombe Street Gallery in January 2020. Both with creative backgrounds, they continue to bring their own personality to the wide-ranging stock, creating a real Aladdin’s cave for customers to explore.

Puddleduck

QUICKLY building a reputation for inspiring and educational gifts to suit all ages and abilities, Puddleduck is no ordinary toy shop.

Having moved from London, former early years co-ordinator Tomi Clark opened Puddleduck in Drakes Way, just off Broad Street, over Easter 2019.

The shop stocks toys for all ages, but in particular focuses on sensory toys for those with special needs, as well as award-winning educational toys and learning resources, making it particularly popular with those who are homeschooling.

Tomi has adopted a ‘try before you buy’ policy, with many games available for youngsters to have a go at in store before making their selection.

But Puddleduck is not just for children.

There’s also a selection of adult puzzles and brain-training games, which can be particularly helpful for those suffering from dementia or recovering following a stroke.

Split over two floors, the cosy shop has

something to suit all interests - from craft sets using British designs to science kits encouraging and inspiring outdoor learning.

You’ll also find favourite characters such as Winnie the Pooh and Peter Rabbit, popular ranges such as Orange Tree Toys and, especially for Christmas, a selection of stocking fillers and unique decorations.

Puddleduck Lyme Regis Never Stop Believing!

Fun and exciting toy shop selling games, crafts and learning resources for adults and children Jewellery, gifts & interiors 33 Coombe Street 01297 444817 open 10am-5pm daily Find us on Instagram @coombestreetgallery

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1 Drakes Way DT7 3QP | 01297 443797 | puddleducklymeregis.com

Lyme Rocks

LYME Rocks’ concept of a traditional sweet shop with a modern, funky twist has proved a hit with customers of all ages over the past 12 months.

The shop recently celebrated its first anniversary having gone from strength to strength since opening in Bridge Street in October 2018.

Owner Fiona Markham said: “We have been overwhelmed with support during our first year, which exceeded all our expectations” Alongside more than 200 jars of all your favourite sweets, Lyme Rocks offers a wide range of lollipops, Pez and American sweets, as well as ice cream,

sorbet, frozen yoghurt, cold drinks, and of course its popular Lyme Regisbranded rock.

Re-live your childhood or try something new... and if you can’t find your favourite sweets in store, the friendly staff are always happy to take requests in person or contact them via phone, email or through the Lyme Rocks Facebook page.

The shop is always adding new lines and has recently expanded its selection of chocolate with Tony’s Chocolonely, a Belgian Fairtrade chocolate made completely slave-free, available in a variety of flavours.

Bespoke gift bags, hampers, sweet cones, party bags and wedding favours are available to suit all budgets. Lyme Rocks can also provide pick ‘n’ mix for wedding receptions, birthdays, christenings, baby showers and other special occasions.

As Lyme Rocks gears up for Christmas, it will be stocking special festive lines and offers, including luxury chocolate brands, perfect for presents and stocking fillers.

The shop’s gift room also boasts a wide selection of contemporary and fun presents to suit all ages, and gift vouchers are also available.

TRADITIONAL SWEETS & TREATS WITH A FUNKY TWIST!

Papa Luca

PAPA Luca is a family run shop in Lyme Regis that offers a personally chosen mix of high quality gifts, fashions and furnishings - from brand new to vintage and antiques.

The Broad Street shop is bursting with unique Art Deco and vintage treasures, including furniture, lamps and pictures.

This Christmas we have an especially attractive range of new and vintage glassware and cocktail collectables.

Look out for our latest cocktail cabinet and of course the popular wine glass chandeliers.

If you’re on a cashmere quest this Christmas you must see our collection of new hats, scarves, gloves and wrist warmers in four different colours. As usual we have lots of stylish winter hats including a fabulous collection from local milliner Alison Tutcher. Fine wool and silk scarves from designers Jo Edwards and Diana Wilson Arcana are also getting lots of attention this month.

We hope you find that these luxurious accessories perhaps along with a discerning selection from our jewellery cabinet, complement our current collection of designer and vintage evening and party wear perfectly.

Bags come in all shapes and sizes from new leather backpacks, shoulder and cross-body bags, and shoppers to charming vintage handbags and

evening bags.

There are plenty of great gift ideas for men too. Check out our latest cathode clock and amongst the vintage clocks you’ll find a 1960s chess clock made in the USSR for aspiring grand masters.

And of course, don’t forget the very popular retro vinyl/CD/MP3 players and DAB radios. Why not call in for a demonstration?

Especially for Christmas, you’ll also find a selection of stylish tree decorations, Italian wrapping papers, cards, candles and home fragrances.

Pop into the shop to explore the collections today, or visit the website www.papaluca.co.uk

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% A huge selection of your favourite sweets diwiscou0 nt on gifts th this adve rt Until Decem Sweets Rock Ice Cream Gifts ber 31st 2019 Gift Bags Frozen Yogurt Cold Drinks Bespoke Hampers Wedding & Party Sweets Open daily 11am - 4.30pm (seasonal hours apply - check Facebook for details) Bridge Street, Lyme Regis DT7 3QA | 01297 444322 | lymerocks1@gmail.com

@LymeLifeMag

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Your World Travel

YOUR World Travel, based in Bridge Street, Lyme Regis is your local independent travel agency.

Managing director Sue Langdon has been in the travel industry now for 40 years and has run a travel agency from this office for the last 35.

She is assisted by senior travel consultant Fern Nicklen, who has been in the travel industry for 18 years and started her career in travel at this office, along with travel consultant Jackie Langdon, who has been part of the team for three years.

Your World Travel is a member of the Hays Travel Independence Group - ABTA’s largest independently owned group‚ which gives them the best possible buying power and the widest range of travel products on the high street.

The team can assist you with a wide variety of holidays from UK breaks to tailor-made round the world itineraries.

They also have a wide range of cruises to suit your style, itinerary and budget and a choice of holidays from your local airport.

They are passionate about travel and with their expertise, professionalism and customer service, why go anywhere else?

Here is what just some of their customers say…

“The staff are very friendly and helpful and the service is excellent. I wouldn’t dream of using another travel agent.”

“No worries! We have just returned

Persuasion

SET back from the hubbub of Lyme’s sandy beach, Persuasion sells a range of quality things for you to give or keep.

Avoiding the mass produced and the ‘run of the mill’, we support small South West producers where we can.

Perennially popular, our Gone Crabbing children’s clothes help keep out the from our 4th trip to Australia with stopovers each way. As ever our travel arrangements worked out brilliantly thanks to Sue and her team who you can rely on to ensure you have a happy and carefree holiday.”

“We have found Your World Travel to be one of the friendliest and most helpful agents we have come across.

They go out of their way to show genuine interest in their clients travel arrangements and the efficiency and attention to detail is quite remarkable.”

“I just wanted to say how much my cousin and I appreciated all the arrangements you made to make this holiday so enjoyable. It was an example of customer care at its best. It is a very real pleasure to do business with Your World Travel.”

Sue and her team look forward to assisting you with your future travel plans.

wind and chill. Equally, made 100 per cent from plastic bottles, our gorgeous, king size, blankets will keep you cosy as winter sets in.

Synonymous with the sea and the Cobb we sell our own range of sturdy Cobb Canvas bags and hardy French clothing from the coast of Brittany for both adults and kids.

With a ‘weather eye’ on sustainability, quality and style we source abroad when a product takes our eye.

Whether that be our Bretons that are really Breton, our sumptuous socks from Portland (Oregon) or, newly in, stylish and affordable IZIPIZI reading glasses with their Parisian flair.

For smaller gifts, we offer natural, locally made candles, diffusers and soaps and artisan perfumes and hand creams from the UK. Popular with locals, and visitors alike, we hope you’ll find something different to remind you, or your loved ones, of your time in Lyme.

Find us on the ‘Old Parade’ just behind the Harbour Inn.

20 MARINE PARADE LYME REGIS, DORSET 01297 444110 PERSUASION-LYME.CO.UK INFO@PERSUASION-LYME.CO.UK

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WWW.COBBCANVAS.CO.UK

In Harmony

BASED in Silver Street, opposite the library, In Harmony Beauty Salon has just celebrated its second anniversary of opening and held a birthday party to thank customers for all their support over the last two years.

Since opening, the services offered have increased and now include not only manicures, pedicures, facials, massage, waxing and tinting, but also makeup lessons, lash lifting, body scrubs and colour consultation with Jacquie Payne from Colourflair. It really is a one-stop-shop for all your beauty needs.

In Harmony has also become a gallery for local designers to display their work, including jewellery by Wendy Lowis Bates and sculptures by Anne Townsend. Gift vouchers for all services are also available.

Lisa Galvani, salon owner, has recently undertaken bridal hair styling training with Chris Fordham of Fordham Hair Design, national winner of 'Best Bridal Stylist' and official judge for The Wedding Industry Awards.

Lisa said: “Chris is amazing. I've learnt so much from him and am very excited to be expanding my bridal services in 2020 to include bridal hair

styling as well as bridal makeup and bridal pre-wedding pampering.

“I want to offer a complete personalised service for brides in Lyme Regis and the surrounding areas.”

For further details on treatments available call 01297 445138, visit the website inharmonylymeregis.co.uk or find In Harmony on Facebook.

Photos by Katherine Newman Photography

www.inharmonylymeregis.co.uk 01297 445138 57 Silver Street, Lyme Regis DT7 3HR OPEN:

Monday closed ● Tuesday 9.30-5 ● Wednesday 9.30-5 Thursday 9.30-7 ● Friday 9.30-5 ● Saturday 9.30-3 ● Sunday Closed

@LymeLifeMag

The Healing Room

SAM Manning’s journey as a holistic therapist started in 2016, after working in mental health for 15 years with adolescents, adults, early intervention in psychosis and the elderly.

She now runs The Healing Room from her peaceful home in Smallridge, near Axminster, offering clients therapeutic massage to improve well-being, including the Myofascial Release techniques to reduce stress and effectively manage chronic pain, as well as reiki treatments.

Myofascial Release techniques are safe, gentle and consistently effective in producing positive and lasting results in patients. This is achieved by freeing up Myofascial restrictions, which can be caused by trauma both physical and emotional, operations, surgery, impact and inflammation, to reduce pain and restore function.

Massage helps us to relax allowing the sympathetic nervous system to switch off. This allows the adrenaline and cortisol levels to return to normal, bringing harmony and balance back to the system.

Sam’s treatments are usually an hour

long and she will undertake a detailed consultation to ensure she can develop a treatment that suits the individual client’s needs.

She commented: “Sessions will vary depending on each client. Sometimes I may use massage, I may use just Myofascial Release or I may combine. I can address all sorts of problems.”

Commenting on Sam’s treatment, one customer said: “Since having my car accident 15 years ago I was used to living in pain. I think I was at my lowest point in life when I met Sam; I was dragging my body around and all my energy was spent on existing.

“In five weeks this amazing woman has changed my life. Words fail me, I am a totally different person, I have energy, I can do things for myself again and, most importantly, no pain!”

If you’re looking for the perfect Christmas present, The Healing Room is now offering gift vouchers and Sam has also recently launched a loyalty scheme, For further details or to book an appointment, call Sam on 07732 455 370 or 01297 631883 or email sam@th-room.co.uk

Sam Manning m: 07732 455370 t: 01297 631883 e: sam@th-room.co.uk 9

Beautiful Boat Co

WIN A HAMPER OF CHRISTMAS GOODIES WORTH £100 Get Christmas off to a lucky start by entering the Lyme Life Magazine’s competition to win this top quality festive prize!

EIGHTEEN months after opening for business, Lyme’s only resident boatbuilding company looks back on an exciting start and reflects on needing to be flexible to meet unusual demands.

As managing director Sam Smith says: “As it turns out, we’re doing so much more than just building boats.”

Alongside their two major commissions - a replica 1904 lake punt for Hestercombe Gardens near Taunton, and a 22-foot wooden coastal rowing boat for Poole Amateur Rowing Club the popularity of Lyme Bay for boaty types makes it unsurprising that the company is regularly asked to do boat repairs. They are happy to work in both wood and fibreglass.

Perhaps more surprising is the steady flow of work not connected with boats, made possible by the skills required of wooden boatbuilders.

Jobs have included creating several idyllic garden rooms, building a yurt, working with an artist to display her work, replicating some intricately designed external shutters, repairing a gothic arch destroyed by a badger and providing custom-cut teak boards for a tricky parquet flooring project.

Fortunate to have reclaimed a large quantity of teak that once comprised the floor of a Somerset hospital ward, the boat boys have painstakingly restored it to its former glory and are always delighted when they or others can put it to good use. Indeed, the ‘boat bench’ (pictured inset) is a replica of one from Forde Abbey, made with this teak as a birthday surprise for a local client.

Always keen to minimise their environmental impact, they sell small wooden items made from offcuts of their projects, via the online store, Etsy. Local readers may also be interested to see their beautifully finished wooden ‘pram dinghy’, ready to carry to the beach and row around the bay.

The last year has seen the company exhibit their fabulous ‘Rascal’ speedboat at the Luxury Travel Fair at Olympia, and they also experienced the thrill of this boat being nominated for the highly prestigious Classic Boat Award.

Thinking ahead to 2020, the company is excited to be considering boatbuilding commissions whereby the commissioner spends time with them in the workshop, contributing their dream creation. They are also looking at non-marine projects such as fitting out camper vans and love becoming known as the ‘go-to’ company for challenging projects using wood in a variety of ways for local clients.

Wanting to encourage others who live locally, they have also offered the emerging Lyme Community Workshop pro bono help and support. They’d always love to hear from you!

Simply answer the following question - the answer to which can be found in this magazine:

Which traditional pantomime will be staged in Lyme Regis in February 2020?

Fill in the answer and your contact details below, and return this form to the following address: Christmas Hamper Competition c/o Francesca Evans, LymeOnline, Unit 5 Uplyme Business Park, Uplyme Road, Lyme Regis, Dorset DT7 3LS, or alternatively email your answer and contact details to francesca@lyme-online.co.uk Closing date: 5pm on Wednesday, December 18th 2019 The winner will be chosen at random from all correct entries received and the hamper will be delivered on Friday, December 20th 2019.

If you live out of the local area, collection must be arranged.

The above photo is an example and is not an accurate representation of the actual prize

Answer: ...............................................................................................................

Name: ..................................................................................................................

Address: .............................................................................................................. ...............................................................................................................................

Contact number: ...............................................................................................

All the local news 24/7

lyme-online.co.uk

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Seasons Greetings from all at Fairfield House

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Lyme nostalgia Philip Evans looks back at the Charter 700 events held in Lyme in the 1980s

IN 1984 I was deputy mayor when Princess Alexandra visited Lyme Regis to mark the town’s 700th anniversary of the granting of its royal charter. Here, we reproduce the article that I wrote on that day, which appeared in a special newspaper brought out overnight to mark the occasion.

After 700 years Lyme Regis got its royal acclamation at precisely 3.14pm on Tuesday, May 8th 1984 when Princess Alexandra arrived in the town to a tumultuous reception as part of the Charter 700 celebration.

Lyme’s narrow streets around the ancient Guildhall, a building that has played many an important role in the town’s illustrious past, was lined with beaming faces as the red, white and blue flags fluttered above in a gusty wind.

The Lyme Regis Town Band under the direction of bandmaster Joe O’Donnell, kept the crowd happy as an obliging police officer listened intently to his radio to pass on information about the Princess’ progress to Lyme.

At 2.30pm the message went round that she had just left Weymouth where she had opened a new sewerage works. It was expected that she would be 40 minutes late.

The journey along Dorset’s Jurassic coastline would have exposed Golden Cap, standing stark and proud, before revealing old Lyme, nestled in the bay on a clear, early summer’s day.

When the royal entourage reached Bridport the word was passed to the civic party, which had clustered inside the town council offices.

They were led out by the macebearers Major Jack Nuttall and Mr Jack Evans, followed by the Mayor and Mayoress Councillor and Mrs John Broderick, the town clerk Philip Latham and his wife Philippa, who was carrying their three-month-old baby daughter Emma, and town councillors and their partners.

They lined up outside the Guildhall with the macebearers standing at each side of the ancient oak door. The friendly policeman announced that the Princess had now passed through Morcombelake.

Lyme was soon to receive its first royal visitor since King George VI secretly inspected the troops billeted at the Golf Club during the war. Children from the junior and infants’ school paraded past the Guildhall, clutching union jacks and cheered on their way by a crowd that had swelled to several thousand.

They practised their cheers for the photographers and camera crews.

The crowd was generous in its applause for

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any passing police motorcyclist and even more so for the band that played on.

The Mayor looked decidedly tense as the news filtered through that Princess Alexandra, official flag fluttering from the front of her car, was just a few hundred yards away.

A huge cheer rang out around Cockmoile Square where the Princess Victoria, before becoming Queen, had once been greeted by the town’s first citizen.

There had been a strong police presence in the town for most of the day and a stark reminder of these disturbing times was demonstrated when the Princess’ detective hopped out of the first car to arrive and momentarily exposed a gun strapped to his waist.

Those who were to be presented to the Princess tided themselves and the Mayor took a tentative step forward as the royal blue car pulled up. A sergeant from the Army Cadet Force opened the door and out stepped Princess Alexandra, looking striking in a long deep red coat with matching silk scarf and hat, a very military looking outfit, but one entirely appropriate for a day when the wind was less than kind.

The Princess did not wait for the formal introduction to the Mayor from the Lord Lieutenant, Colonel Sir Joseph Weld. She went straight to John Broderick and a radiant smile put him immediately at ease, setting the pattern for the rest of her visit.

The Princess moved quickly to say hello to the Mayoress who was dressed in a apricot two-piece suit with cream hat. She has obviously done her homework for she asked the Mayoress whether it was true that they had married on a Saturday and been parted the following day when her husband returned to the war. It was indeed correct and the Princess laughed.

I then had the privilege to say hello to the Princess as Lyme’s mayor-elect. She asked

me when I took office and what I did when not on civic duty. I told her I was a journalist and she wondered how I was going to be able to cope with both jobs.

She then moved along the line shaking hands with my wife Jackie and the town clerk.

She lingered a little longer when coming to Mrs Latham, with babe-in-arms, and had an affectionate smile for the little girl.

Then the Princess was introduced to Councillor Ivor Curtis, chairman of the Charter 700 Committee, the man who had seen months of planning for this royal day through from start to finish.

Harry Williams, former town clerk and the Charter 700 administrator was the next to meet the Princess, followed by his wife Jean. Before the Princess could be steered back to the steps of the Guildhall to officially unveil a plaque she moved into the crowd, first to Town Crier Richard Fox, looking resplendent as usual in his imposing uniform. Then she went over to the band and commented to Joe O’Donnell that as his musicians wore red jackets she could easily join their ranks.

A huge cheer went up as the Princess unveiled the plaque and the band played the National Anthem.

Eight-year-old Amy Warr, daughter of Charter 700 secretary Gillian Warr, presented a posy and Princess Alexandra disappeared into the Guildhall, accompanied only by the Mayor and Mayoress and her Lady-in-Waiting.

Inside the Mayor’s Parlour, where the photographs of past mayors hang in testimony to their public service, she signed the visitors’ book.

She didn’t keep the crowd waiting long outside and, when she emerged, another terrific roar from those assembled was greeted with a flashing smile.

Again the Princess disappeared into the crowd but looked quite surprised when Richard Fox used his stentorian tones to announce that the Princess was to go walkabout “in this ancient seaport”.

“God Save Princess Alexandra and God Save the Queen.” The cheers reached a crescendo and the Princess moved off along Bridge Street, detectives in close attendance. She was met with a sea of smiling faces, some even hanging out of windows and calling to the Princess. She looked up and acknowledged their greetings with a wave.

A very special moment came when the Mayor introduced the Princess to 91-year-old Lizzie Gollop, one of Lyme’s oldest residents. Lizzie told her with pride that she had been born in the town – and the smile on her frail face spoke louder than the cheers around her.

Former mayoress Helena Hallett also received an official introduction, as did Miss Gwyneth Chaney.

By this time it was obvious that the Princess was going to be inundated with posies so her Lady-in-Waiting called on three members of the local British Red Cross to follow behind and help to carry the flowers that were being showered upon them.

Mr Cecil Quick, President of the Lyme Regis branch of the Royal British Legion, and Mr Bill Reed were the next to be introduced to A BLUE plaque on Lyme’s historic Guildhall, unveiled by HRH Princess Alexandra during her visit in the Princess and then she spoke to 1984. Pictured on facing page, a photo of the princess presented to town councillor Ivor Cutis, who the head boy and head girl of the was chairman of the Charter 700 Committee, which is now on display in the Guildhall Woodroffe School, Robin Tarling and Katkin Mayne, accompanied by their headmaster Mr David But- Mr Butler had allowed his Bentley to be used to transport the Mayor and Mayoress. After finding out what they did for a living the Princess terworth.

All the schoolchildren were assembled in the Cobb Gate car park. asked if they could let her have one of their business cards. Mr Butler They squealed with delight and, as expected Princess Alexandra had to admit that he did not have one with him. “You must send me one,” said the Princess. spent several minutes talking to them.

She insisted on meeting everyone at the reception and, when she Mrs Joy Hull and Mrs Margaret Tope head teachers at the infants’ and junior schools got special introductions, much to the delight of had done so, she instructed the Mayor to relax.

“It’s been a splendid day,” she said. “You have all been so kind.” their pupils.

At 4.32pm she said her farewells. Lyme had waited for 700 years for From the car park the Princess moved up onto the Marine Parade and even stopped to take a quick look inside the Alcove lamp shop. an official royal visit to give credence to its first charter, granted by Such was the crowd on the narrow sea front that the Princess some- King Edward I in times disappeared completely to emerge again with even more flow- 1284.

Today the people of ers.

The Axminster music man, Norman Welch, stopped the Princess in Lyme Regis will tell her tracks and serenaded her with “Lili Marlene”. For his trouble he you that Princess got a polite smile from the royal guest – and 10p from her Lady-in- Alexandra had more than compensated Waiting!

The walk-about came to an end outside the Bay Hotel where John for the delay in the Hodder, coxswain of the local lifeboat, Donald Boalch, station officer recognising of the Lyme Regis Fire Brigade and two members of the Leisure Cen- Regis is Lyme Regis. tre Committee, Bob Emmett and John Graham, were the last to get an official introduction.

The Princess was then whisked away by car to the Hotel Buena Vista for tea. Gathered inside the dining room were members of the town council who then had their chance to meet the Princess. She was also introduced to Mr Peter Hunkin, chairman of the Lyme Regis Chamber of Trade and Mrs Mary Featherstone, chairman of the Hoteliers Association. Also present was the Reverend Dr Murray Dell, Vicar of Lyme Regis and Canon D.B. Haselhurst, standing in for the Mayor’s chaplain, Father Patrick Chrystal.

THE special Also introduced to the Princess were Mr Wally Featherstone, chair- newspaper proman of Uplyme Parish Council, and Mrs Featherstone. duced overnight It was, of course, a special occasion for Mr and Mrs John Baddeley to celebrate and their staff at the Buena Vista. They had laid on a traditional Dorset Lyme’s Charter tea and the Princess was so impressed that she asked to meet the 700 anniversary chef, Mr James Lowe, to express her appreciation. and the visit from She honoured them by signing the visitors’ book – “Alexandra, May Princess Alexan8th, 1984”. dra, from which There was a light-hearted moment at the tea when the Princess was this article has introduced to Mr and Mrs Martin Butler who run the Cobb Arms Hotel. been reproduced

@LymeLifeMag

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LYME REGIS GUILDHALL

Judgements, jail and a time capsule guest writer Sophia Moseley explores the history of one of Lyme’s most ionic buildings A QUIET unassuming seaside resort with a few quaint reminders of times past? Not even close, Lyme Regis still has the pride and strength of a lion that is undiminished despite modern times, and the historic Grade II listed Guildhall has stood the test of time… just about.

Sadly the Assembly Rooms visited by Jane Austen that would have complemented the Guildhall were knocked down in 1927 to make way for the Cobb Gate car park, but the original town jail door still exists as a reminder of more brutal times where the guilty (or not) would have been held pending the court’s decision.

The current Guildhall, built in 1887, stands on the site of the original 16th century hall that would have seen the arrival of Monmouth and witnessed the incredible fight the locals put up during the English civil war. There are plenty of original features that have been retained, including the chamfered ceiling beams and, in the main chamber, there is a 17th century ship’s mast. The dais balustrade is also from the same period and there is a stone carving of the Royal Stuart arms above the mayor’s seat.

But it’s what lies behind locked doors that interests me and each time I walk past the heavily studded black jail door, above which it says “The door of the old lock up which stood here”, I have visions of cold, dark, dank rooms with skeletal remains chained to walls.

When operations manager Matt Adamson-Drage arrived with a huge bunch of keys that would be the envy of any jailkeeper and unlocked the solid wooden door that hadn’t been opened for several years, I stepped into a slightly less sinister space that had been neatly bricked in to give extra storage. That being said, Matt is pretty sure the wooden chairs stacked in there have been there for around 15 years

THE Grade II listed Guildhall, built in 1887, is one of Lyme’s most iconic buildings. Here, a stone carving of the Royal Stuart arms sits above the mayor’s seat, with lists of past mayors either side

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and have been forgotten about.

But deckchairs notwithstanding, it has retained its 16th century ominous air.

Until the early part of the 20th century, the jail and adjoining square was known as ‘Cockmoile’; according to G. Roberts, ‘The History of Lyme Regis’: “It refers to the former custom, when it was a house of Cor-rection of working from cock-crowing to sunset, moil meaning labour.”

THE old jail door outside the Guildhall that few have seen behind. Above, the main chamber of the Guildhall, a former courthouse, where the town council now holds its meetings

Walking up the steps to the heavy wooden front door of the Guildhall, there is a feeling of grandeur and ceremony, but then the Victorians did give it large with their buildings. The engraving on the circular stone plinth on the facing wall as you go in has mostly worn away but references the tower being built in the 50th year of Queen Victoria’s reign with the work ending Christmas 1888.

Head up the main staircase to the smaller of the two rooms, the Mayor’s Parlour where council meetings used to take place. Councillor Stan Williams will remember sitting round the table, cigarette smoke filling the air, discussing local policy.

In the corner of this room is a door that very few people go through, and fewer still venture up the stairs into the tower. The ornate but heavy iron door at the top of the short flight is now impossible to budge and the pretty Victorian filigree shelf bracket is being eaten away by rust. There’s a nod to modern living with a long defunct 20th century three-pin plug electric heater attached to the wall. Sadly the top part of the tower has been sealed off. Perhaps that’s where the rebellion booty is stashed.

The bigger of the two rooms is where the council meetings now take place; with its hefty wooden balustrade and raised platform, many believe it continues to create an environment of ‘them and us’.

Outgoing deputy mayor Jeff Scowen’s second love is architecture and he said Lyme is very lucky to have such a wonderful place, despite the uncomfortable seats, “There is something about the place, being an old courthouse effects the atmosphere.

I’m a confident person but even I noticed it and you feel like you’re in a bubble, not attached to what’s going on in the outside world, it’s isolating.

“After centuries of being a courthouse it does still influence decisions, although not so much with the new council. But you can’t wipe out centuries of being a courtroom, it’s ingrained in the wood. I felt like I was on trial for the first few months!”

LYME Regis Pantomime Society will be presenting ‘Hickory Dickory Dock’ in February 2020.

This will be the society’s 36th show since its reformation in 1985 and, while not such a well known story, it still has all the wonderful characters, fun, laughter and shenanigans of any traditional pantomime.

Written by Norman Robbins, this local production is being directed by Sarah Causley, who is also leading the choreography along with Amanda RattenburyDavies.

The cast is made up of lots of new faces to the society, together with one or two of its much-loved regulars, all supported by a fabulous young and enthusiastic chorus.

Both at just 15 years of age, the society’s Grace Knowles and Thomas Miller take up the roles of Mary Foxtrot and David - the principal girl and boy - for the first time, and what a great partnership they make, supported by Richard Shepherd as the wonderful Dame Foxtrot.

The cast also welcomes newcomers Jon Doody as the Wizard and John Tassell as King Neptune, as well as Jacob Denning, Izzy Carey and Josie Smith all treading the boards with the society for the first time.

They are all ably supported by some regular faces that audiences have grown to love over the years.

Penniless Dame Foxtrot doesn't know her old grandfather clock is a magical possession. Years ago the Fairy Queen locked into it the wicked Black Imp who

menaced Fairyland. If the clock ever struck one, the Imp would be freed, so the Queen took away the key.

But the wicked Wizard steals the key, frees the Imp, and seeks to destroy Fairyland by using him to get the magic Jewel of Miracles. All is set for a terrific battle between the goodies and baddies, with plenty of audience participation, dreadful jokes, bright lights, glitter and fabulous costumes in true pantomime style.

Any show would not be complete without the amazing backstage crew, the unsung heroes, who again fall under the management of Terry Cozens. Ensuring sets are changed on time, furniture is exactly where it is supposed to be and the curtain is pulled at the correct time is not an easy task, and normally all done in complete darkness. Working alongside Terry is the props lady, Jane Tappin, who manages to make, beg, borrow and steel some fantastic props, the finishing touch to any show.

A team of helpers also come to the aid of the society to ensure that front of house, box office, refreshments and raffles are run with military precision, again a team of people that make up the whole Pantomime package.

The show will be held nightly at 7.30pm from February 19th to 22nd at the Woodmead Halls, plus a matinee performance on the Saturday at 2.30pm. Tickets will go on sale in January at Lyme Regis Tourist Information Centre, costing £10 for adults or £6 for 14s and under.

LYME REGIS PANTOMIME SOCIETY PRESENTS

Matt pointed out the dedicated areas, including the royal area, twinning and town crier walls. There is also a time capsule that was installed on July 25th 1996 that cannot be opened until July 25th 2096.

Now anyone who has lived in Lyme more than a few months will have likely witnessed the result of a lorry or bus hitting the bay window that overhangs the road. Matt told me it has been hit at least 10 times in the last 30 months. They are hoping to get planning permission to pull the window back 8” but as it’s a listed building, that is likely to be some way off.

With its centuries of rules, judgements and punishment embedded in its fabric I wonder how the latest drama will play out. I can’t help but feel there must be some skeletons in the cupboard, I just wonder whose?

@LymeLifeMag

February 19th - 22nd 2020, Woodmead Halls Nightly 7.30pm, Saturday Matinee 2.30pm

Tickets in advance from Lyme Regis Tourist Information Centre

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take a Y T I R A H C OR DIPthisFChristmas and New Year IT’S easy to overdo it during the festive season, but if you’re feeling fuzzy-headed, full-up and fatigued, blow away the Christmas cobwebs with a quick dip in the sea.

You can wash away that ‘morning after’ feeling with a Christmas Day splash in the water at Charmouth, or a New Year’s Day dash to the sea in Lyme Regis – and don’t forget your fancy dress!

CHRISTMAS DAY SWIM

One of the area’s most popular festive events, the Christmas Day Swim in Charmouth, is once again expected to draw hundreds of spectators, as well as those brave enough to take a dip in aid of the RNLI. Fancy dress is not compulsory but vicars, dinosaurs, Father Christmases and pirates are expected to turn up for a splash in the sea at 11am. Participants should get to the beach by 10.30am.

Sue and Matthew Bracey of Charmouth’s Royal Oak pub is once again supporting the swim and will be providing mulled wine.

Sue said: “The free wine goes down very well with the swimmers, but this year we will have more bottles so that we can serve spectators as well for a donation to the RNLI.” Volunteer members of Lyme Regis lifeboat crew will be keeping a watchful eye out during the event, which will be subject to a risk assessment of conditions during the morning.

LYME LUNGE

The iconic Lyme Lunge will then return to Lyme Regis beach on New Year’s Day, and a fancy dress dip in the balmy waters of Lyme Bay is just the thing to lift your spirits the morning after.

This year, the Rotary Club of Lyme Regis will be supporting the Dorset County Hospital Charity Chemotherapy Appeal, raising funds to refurbish, enlarge and modernise the chemotherapy department having moved the consulting rooms to the new radiotherapy block opened this year. The Lunge last year raised funds for the equipping of the consulting rooms.

This is always a great occasion with thousands of spectators supporting a growing number participants, reaching record levels on New Year’s Day 2019.

Swimmers will parade their costumes on the beach before a quick dash to the sea at 1pm sharp, so make sure you get there in plenty of time.

And the lifeboat crew will be on hand again to ensure everyone’s safety.

Full details and sponsorship forms are available at lymeregisrotary.org

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Inspired by land, sea and sky

LYME Regis artist Julie Oldfield travels and exhibits her work all over the world, and it was even given the ‘royal seal of approval’ at one of her latest exhibitions.

For the third year running, Julie’s work was accepted for the Society of Women Artists’ annual exhibition at the Mall Galleries in London. She displayed three paintings and received compliments on her pioneering techniques from HRH Princess Michael of Kent, the society’s patron, at the official opening in September (pictured right).

Julie was also shortlisted this year for membership to the exclusive society, reaching the final 12 candidates.

Experienced artist Julie has a portfolio of work spanning some 20 years, from local seascapes to large textural paintings of the Himalayas.

Raised on a farm in England, the play of light on open spaces and changing weather conditions made a strong impression on Julie from a young age. Now living near Lyme Regis, much of her work is inspired by the Jurassic Coast’s large skies and changing tones.

As well as focussing on nature as the subject of her paintings, she also allows natural processes to play a part in her work, using patination, fire and weathering to achieve the final look.

Her mixed media paintings often incorporate materials from the local area, providing a unique character to each piece. Her most recent work, however, is produced on metal, incorporating her unique techniques of oxidization and fire on copper.

Julie’s experimental paintings are influenced by her extensive travels around six continents of the world - an inspirational combination, with dangers and pitfalls of the unknown adding excitement to each piece of work.

Working and living with local people helps her to de-

18

velop an understanding of the mood and soul of the country and the environment.

Julie says: “The techniques I use have gone through a number of developmental phases over the years. I started with canvass and became interested in using various textural materials, site-specific earth materials, natural weathering, dipping works into the sea, pastels and spray paints to produce the effects I wanted.

“The process of weathering and slow change drew me to experiment with metal sheets and the effects of chemistry, heat and weathering to create patination foundations that I could then develop with traditional art materials. I have been refining my techniques and use different metals for different effects.

“My garden is my studio. My tools are bonfires, various acids and alkalis, grinders, scrapers, brushes, pastels, sprays, nature and natural weathering. Work can be left in my garden to develop for weeks or months, opening up surface possibilities.

“Working with science and nature in this way often gives unexpected results, especially with the uneven heat of fires and exposure time, challenging me as an artist to create the work you see here and on my website. Every painting is therefore very individual and hard to reproduce.”

Julie has exhibited her work extensively in the UK, as well as in Dubai and Cape Town. Aside from having her work accepted by the Society of Women Artists, she has also exhibited with the

Royal Society of Marine Artists, the Bath Society of Artists and the South West Academy, and has just finished a successful exhibition at Chester Art Fair.

Closer to home, you can see a selection of Julie’s paintings on permanent display at The Harbour Inn in Lyme Regis, and she regularly hosts exhibitions at the Town Mill Malthouse, with two are already planned for next year opening on April 15th and September 24th.

She will also be exhibiting for Dorset Art Weeks from May 24th to June 7th and in Wimborne in October.

Julie also teaches her painting techniques in workshops. Details on her latest workshops, exhibitions and prints of her work are available on her website www.julieoldfield.com

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CELLAR 59 CRAFT BEER BAR & BOTTLE SHOP THE problem faced when locating your brewery in the middle of nowhere, off any bus route and down a single-track lane is that it becomes difficult to encourage hoards of customers in to sample your brews.

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A colourful oasis in a sea of brown beer, you can sample a very diverse range of natural beers both on tap (cask and keg) and in bottles and cans, in the pleasant and unique environment of our quirky 17th century cellar bar.

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In 2016 we chose Lyme Regis to open the Gyle 59 Brewery Tap and Bottle Shop on Broad Street and have become firmly established as one of the top places to visit in the South West for good beer.

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natural beer house

Our strap line “We want you to notice what you are drinking” has certainly come true as we introduce many to a wide range of beer styles, from pales to porters, saisons to sours and lambics to lagers. All draught beers are deliberately not cleared with fish finings, making them not only more flavourful but also suitable for vegetarians and vegans.

We also stock a good range of wines, including an organic and vegan friendly one, local natural ciders and a fabulous house gin that is delicious with elderflower tonic and a slice of lime.

To eat, we offer a very simple snack menu of foods that pair well with beer – Scotch eggs and pork pies from Colyton Butchers, West Country cheeses or hummus and biscuits. Alternatively, we are more than happy for you to order a takeaway and consume it in the bar – we even have plates and cutlery – just ask!

Our well-stocked bottle shop, situated at the back of the bar, is crammed with local, national and international bottles and cans including those considered modern, or craft beers. For 2019 we have launched the Capitalist Hippie range of beers and our bottled 5.0% New England IPA ‘Far out!’ with hints of pink grapefruit, mango and pineapple makes a very colourful and delicious present for a friend or for yourself.

But it’s not just about drinking the nations favourite tipple - as brewers we like to share our knowledge and expertise about beer. Run quarterly, Beer Club has become a firm favourite where we talk about and taste six different beers around varying topics, understanding the flavours and history of the products. On some sessions guest brewers are invited, or participants bring in a beer to share that they particularly like or have been intrigued by. Tickets must be booked in advance as spaces are limited to just 10 people.

If all of this just seems too much come in out of the cold, grab yourself a prosecco or coffee and settle down to a game of Connect 4, chess, draughts, Jenga, cards, dominos, Scrabble, cribbage or Othello, or on a mild day sit outside on our secluded and pretty beer terrace.

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natural beer house

EATING OUT The Harbour Inn T HIS has been a milestone year for Sue Steward and Mark Oldfield, owners of Lyme’s popular seafront bar and restaurant The Harbour Inn, just a stone’s throw from the beach.

restaurant trade, gaining a reputation over the years for good quality cuisine at reasonable prices, using local ingredients, especially fresh fish right off the harbour trawlers.

The have celebrated 15 years at The Harbour and with another hectic summer season behind them, they are now looking forward to the run-up to Christmas and the New Year.

As the nearest restaurant to the sea, The Harbour menu reflects the abundance of fresh fish available with new fish dishes being constantly being created.

Before acquiring The Harbour, after moving to the West Country from Derbyshire in the 1990s, Sue bought the Honiton Wine Bar, which was run by son Mark, as well as taking over The Awliscombe Inn. The Harbour was a pretty tired seaside pub when they took over in 2004 and, over the years, they have extended the premises, adding a restaurant, maximising the attractive veranda and securing a sitting out area on the beach which is just a few steps from the bar.

Sue and Mark soon recognised that their position so close to the sea was their greatest asset and set about building their

That reputation is still as strong today ,despite the increase in competition from new food outlets in Lyme in recent years.

Before the season got underway, Sue and her staff gave Lyme’s most popular seafront restaurant and bar a refreshed look. Adding a very special touch, the bar and restaurant walls are adorned with an array of spectacular mixed media works and paintings by Sue’s artist daughter, Julie Oldfield (see page 18).

iconic status.

Sue said: “We have a loyal clientele but we are conscious that there is increasing competition in the hospitality trade in Lyme Regis and to celebrate our 15th year in the town we have redecorated the bar and restaurant as well as introducing a number of new dishes for all seasons.

“We are really grateful for the support we have received from the people of Lyme, especially during this special year, and we look forward to serving them and our visitors for many years to come.”

Sue paid tribute to her staff, more than 30

of whom are employed during the season, and also the creativity and skill of her team of chefs, led by Darrol Moss.

The popularity of The Harbour is reflected in their traditional Christmas Day lunch being sold out with 80 diners already booked. And bookings are now being for their popular Burns Night celebration on Saturday, January 25th.

The Harbour Inn is open seven days a week 10.30am until late with food being served 12noon to 2.30pm and 6pm to 9pm. It is always advisable to book, especially for bigger parties, by calling 01297 442299.

NEW SEAFOOD DISHES on our menu at The Harbour Inn

Lyme Bay Scallops, Butternut Katsu and Fried Fish Bon Bons with vegetables

For many, The Harbour is still the favoured location for celebrating big occasions and events and some of their dishes, especially Sue’s very own fish pie, have near

£23.00 Local line-caught Bass, Prawn Gnocchi and Thermidor Sauce with vegetables £20.50 THE Harbour Inn proprietor Sue Steward pictured with her cheffing team, led by long-serving head chef Darrol Moss (second from left)

23 Marine Parade, Lyme Regis 01297 442299 | harbourinnlymeregis.co.uk

Family-run business serving home-cooked food using quality local produce

in Lyme Regis

Enjoy lunch or dinner in our restaurant, private beach area or veranda overlooking the bay

To book call 01297 442299 harbourinnlymeregis.co.uk

@LymeLifeMag

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EATING OUT The Alexandra Hotel & Restaurant

W

INTER is the season when we crave comfort in warming food and cosy fires. At the Alexandra we have plenty on offer to help wave away the winter blues and provide comfort on the coldest of days.

New for this winter is our Tasting Menu, launching on December 1st. Designed by our new executive chef Chris Chatfield, the menu will feature a selection of small dishes that reflect Chris’ passion for local produce – each dish will feature a star ingredient executed to perfection.

We will be offering a special Tasting Menu for Valentine’s Day (Friday, February 14th) and over Valentine’s weekend.

Please visit our website for more details about our Tasting Menu.

Our Local to Lyme Menu will also be available daily from February 1st (please note the hotel is closed for the month of January). This is a celebration of the best seasonal produce in the area, and includes ingredients such as locally shot pigeon, mushrooms from Chideock, West Country pork belly and locally

landed hake. For just £19.50 enjoy twocourses and a glass of house wine… the perfect excuse to go out!

Throughout the winter months we will continue to run our popular film & supper nights, mainly on the second Wednesday of each month (please check our website for details). You will be treated to a cocktail and a two-course dinner in our restaurant followed by a film in our Old Chapel – all for £30 per person.

If you just want to have a hot drink or afternoon tea, we welcome you to our beautiful Orangery - even on the bleakest grey winter days the Orangery is full of warmth and light.

Our Spa Room is also open to non-residents, and offers warming and relaxing treatments. Run by Nikki of Serenity Aromatherapies and Sophie of Lyme Regis Holistic Therapies, choose from treatments such as hot stone therapy, aromatherapy mas-

£19.50 for 2 courses inc. a glass of wine (Mon-Thurs)

FILM & SUPPER NIGHTS On every month join us for a welcome cocktail, supper & film £30

For more information or to book please contact us on 01297 442010 / hotelalexandra.co.uk Pound Street, Lyme Regis 01297 4442010 | hotelalexandra.co.uk

22

sage, reflexology, Swedish body massage, deep tissue massage and Indian head massage.

See our website or ask our reception for a full treatment menu and to book treatments with either Nikki or Sophie.

EATING OUT The Mariners Hotel

R

ECRUITING a new team to run The Mariners Hotel in Lyme Regis has boosted its popularity in recent months, reflected in a significant jump in its social media and booking ratings.

Owner Jerry Ramsdale has invested heavily in a number of improvements in what has always been considered one of Lyme’s most charming hotels.

Recent improvements have seen the dining room being switched to the former lounge area, with doors that open up onto the garden enabling diners to enjoy magnificent views over Lyme Bay. The former dining room is now used as a function suite and breakfast room with a log fire installed in the new comfortable lounge and easy access to the bar, which is open to non-residents seven days a week, well stocked with no fewer than 21 different gins and a number of cocktails available.

Mr Ramsdale has also installed his son Leo as manager and recruited a new team of chefs who are already receiving

plaudits for the standard of their cuisine.

The Mariners will be open throughout the Christmas period with nearly all rooms occupied and just a few places available for a traditional Christmas lunch for non-residents.

The chefs use only the best ingredients the West Country has to offer, with fresh fish from Lyme Bay, quality-assured meat from West Country farms, and locally-made beer, wine and gin.

The Mariners is open seven days a week for non-residents for breakfast, morning coffees, light lunches, afternoon teas, dinner and Sunday roasts.

Breakfast is served between 8am and 10am with a number of options on the menu, including continental breakfast, full English, full vegetarian, scrambled eggs and smoked salmon, smoked haddock and poached egg, avocado and poached egg and eggs Benedict.

The lunch menu (served 12noon to 2pm) includes a selection of sandwiches and light bites as well as traditional fish and chips, steak burger and pumpkin

THE new dining room at The Mariners which had floor-to-ceiling doors installed which open onto the garden and gives diners magnificent views over Lyme Bay

LAMB Rump with fondant potato, roast carrots, kale and carrot puree. Right, panfried scallops with chorizo and chives, and chocolate brownies with ice cream

IT’S looking a lot like Christmas at The Mariners - the lounge with a roaring log fire

and sage ravioli, all reasonably priced.

Three desserts are also available at lunchtimes.

A sample menu for evening dinner offers six starters: pan fried Lyme Bay scallops, soup of the day, breaded place goujons, house terrine, moules mariniere and antipasti, ranging from £5.50 to £7.50.

For main course you could choose West Country sirloin steak (£21.50), traditional fish and chips (£14.95), whole baked lemon sole (£15.95), pan friend hake (£17.95) or pumpkin and sage ravioli (£14.95).

The dessert menu includes lemon posset, chocolate brownie, apple and cinnamon crumble, sticky toffee pudding, a selection of ice-cream and sorbets and a West Country cheeseboard.

The Mariners is steeped in Lyme’s fossiling and literary history. Beatrix Potter was inspired to write ‘The Tale of Little Pig Robinson’ while staying at the hotel when she was just 17. And many of her illustrations in the book are based on the spectacular scenery she encountered while visiting Lyme Regis and the neighbouring towns and regions.

Beatrix Potter isn’t the only historically important figure to have stayed in the hotel. In 1805 the three Philpot sisters moved to the area and lived in the building while collecting fossils, for which they later became famous.

They were great friends with Mary Anning – probably the most renowned female geologist of all time.

■ THERE are just a few placings left for The Mariners’ Christmas Day feast, starting with a selection of canapes, followed by a starter of smoked salmon with horse radish creme fresh and pickled beetroot salsa or roasted

tomato and basil soup or roast veg tart with brie, pesto and a garden salad.

This is followed by a sorbet and for the main course there’s roasted bacon wrapped turkey breast with goose fat potatoes, pigs in blankets with a red wine reduction and winter veg.

Alternatively, there’s pan fried seabass with crushed new potatoes, tenderstem and a white wine crab cream sauce or wild mushroom risotto or braised lamb shank with champ mash, braised red cabbage and jus.

The sweet course is a choice between Christmas pudding with brandy butter, lemon posset with berry jelly or you can be really indulgent and choose ‘Chocolate, Chocolate, Chocolate’ - chocolate creme brulee, chocolate mousse, chocolate brownie.

And to finish there’s a selection of cheese and mince pies - all for £75 a head.

To book call 01297 442753

Silver Street, Lyme Regis 01297 442753 | hotellymeregis.co.uk/ @LymeLifeMag

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EATING OUT The Royal Standard J

UST a few steps from Lyme’s sandy beach, you’ll struggle to find a better location than The Royal Standard to enjoy a relaxed pint and homecooked fayre.

The traditional Palmers Brewery pub and restaurant has a large beer garden - a sun trap on those warmer days, with views towards the beach and famous Cobb harbour.

On chillier days you can warm up alongside the open fire with the pub’s wide selection of winter drinks specials (see menu right).

Along with the pool bar and restaurant offering wheelchair access throughout and welcoming children and dogs - there’s plenty of space for everyone, whether you’re popping in for a quick pint or a large family meal.

Long-standing landlords Steve and Jane Souter-Phillips handed over the business to their daughter Rachael and son-in-law Akis Maravelis last year. The young couple will offer you a warm welcome, along with their team of friendly and efficient staff.

You’ll find a full range of Palmers Brewery’s award-winning ales behind the bar, accredited with a Cask Marque Award to show excellence in cellar management and ale quality.

The Royal Standard is open for lunches

and dinner, offering generous, unpretentious quality. The pub specialises in simple country cooking with traditional favourites and using ingredients from local suppliers wherever possible. These include Complete Meats of Axminster, local fishermen and Daveys Locker of West Bay. Alongside traditional dishes and an extensive selection of seafood, including fresh, local whole crabs and lobsters, head chef Akis brings a touch of his Greek heritage to the menu, as well as vegetarian specials and a children’s menu.

The Royal Standard recently launched its winter Sunday carvery to rave reviews with some customers returning every week. The carvery is served from 12noon to 2.30pm with roast beef and a changing alternative meat option, served alongside a selection of seasonal vegetables and all the usual trimmings, as well as vegan/vegetarian options.

Lunch is followed by live music from different artists every week as part of the pub’s ‘Sunday Sounds’ winter programme.

The Royal Standard can cater for Christmas parties of any size with its regular menu or the chefs can prepare a special menu to suit your taste and budget for groups of 20 or more.

The restaurant area can seat up to 50 and carvery can be arranged during the week for larger parties.

25 Marine Parade, Lyme Regis 01297 442637 | theroyalstandardlymeregis.co.uk ● ● ● ● ●

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Winter Warmers Why not try one of our delicious hot drinks?

We’ve got one for everyone, alcoholic or not!

Non-Alcoholic A variety of teas from £1.30 Coffees: Americano, Cappuccino, Latte, Flat White, Espresso Hot Chocolate or White Hot Chocolate £2.75 or with Cream & Marshmallows £3.25 Spiced Chai Latte £2.50 Add Gingerbread, Vanilla or Salted Caramel syrup to any drink for 50p. Try a Gingerbread Latte or Vanilla Spiced Chai Latte?

Warm Apple Juice £2

Alcoholic All £5.75 unless stated otherwise Earl Grey/Hot Toddy £3 - Whisky, honey, lemon and hot water/Earl Grey Winter Pimm’s £4 - a warming taste of cinnamon, caramel and zesty orange served with warm apple juice Hot Chocolate Orange with Cointreau Baileys Hot Chocolate Mexican Hot Chocolate with Tequila, Cream & Chilli Flakes Coconut Hot Chocolate - White Hot Chocolate with Malibu Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate with Dark Rum & Salted Caramel Sauce Hot White Russian - Latte or White Hot Chocolate with Tia Maria or Vodka Liqueur Coffees - Irish (Jamesons), French (Grand Marnier), Italian (Disaronno) or Baileys. Coffee with a short of your liking, a little sugar and topped with whipped cream A large glass of Homemade Mulled Wine £5 Half a pint of Home Mulled First Press Cider £3.50 Please check availability of all mulled drinks as they are not available all season

EATING OUT Greens Restaurant

G

REENS Restaurant at Lyme Regis Golf Club offers a fantastic dining experience in comfortable and elegant surroundings.

Members and non-members are welcome at the restaurant, where the friendly staff serve beautiful, classic dishes created by a team of excellent chefs, left by Stephen Pielesz.

Stephen started his culinary career at L’Aubergade in Puymarol in France, under the guidance of 3* Michelin Chef Michel Trama.

He went on to work at Bath Spa Hotel, the Michelin star restaurant at Chewton Glen Hotel and Bowood Golf and Country Club before returning to Dorset to take up a post at The Bridge House Hotel in Beaminster, where he held two AA rosettes for five years cooking good quality British food using local produce.

cally every Sunday. Booking is definitely advisable for this weekend treat, with carvery available for £12 with the option of either a starter or dessert with your traditional roast.

The restaurant has also become the preferred venue for many of Lyme’s local organisations’ social activities, especially annual dinners, and is also popular venue for special occasions such as weddings, birthdays and anniversaries.

Last minute spaces may still be available for the Christmas season, with Greens’ festive party menu offering two courses from just £21 and three courses from £27.50, including live music to entertain. Specials include traditional roast turkey with chestnut stuffing, pigs in blankets and cranberry sauce, plus fish and vegetarian options.

Diners can now enjoy Stephen’s culinary skills in the stunning surroundings of one of the finest golf courses in the South West, offering breathtaking views of Lyme Bay and the Jurassic Coast.

Greens Restaurant is open daily Monday to Saturday until late, offering relaxed lunches, delicious dinners and a popular carvery which sells out practi-

Photos courtesy of Lyme Bay Photography

Timber Hill, Lyme Regis 01297 442963 | lymeregisgolfclub.co.uk

restaurant at Lyme Regis Golf Club

OPEN TO NON-MEMBERS Join us for carvery every Sunday

Special Events, Private Parties, Weddings, Birthdays, Wakes, Seating for 110, Ample Free Parking www.lymeregisgolfclub.co.uk @greenslymeregis greensrestaurantlymeregis Lyme Regis Golf Club, Timber Hill, Lyme Regis, Dorset DT7 3HQ | 01297 442963 @LymeLifeMag

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EATING OUT Black Dog Tea Room Lyme Bay Café Bar T

HE Lyme Bay Café & Bar offers superb panoramic views looking out over the bay, with views down to the Cobb harbour and along the world-famous Jurassic Coast.

On warmer days, come and relax on our sun-drenched terrace or enjoy the breathtaking sea views from inside the stylish café interior, with floor-to-ceiling windows and décor which showcases simplicity and clean lines with natural materials, combined with hints of industrial vintage elements for a modern feel.

The Lyme Bay is the perfect setting to chill out, relax and to experience the simple yet innovative menus in the company of knowledgeable and friendly staff.

The café and bar serves up a feast of locally sourced food and drinks, making the most of the wealth of artisan food and drink producers in Dorset and the South West. The Lyme Bay is keen to champion these producers who strive to produce the highest quality produce.

Breakfast, lunch and afternoon tea, including a range of delicious artisan breads, pastries and cakes with gluten free options available, are served seven days a week. The Lyme Bay is also now open in the evenings for laid back drinks, nibbles and rather good food!

The menu offers the freshest seafood and seasonal local produce to create gorgeously tasty dishes, and The Lyme Bay also has a family-friendly children’s menu.

E

SCAPE the hustle and bustle of the town centre and enjoy a hearty homecooked meal at Uplyme’s hidden gem, the Black Dog Tea Room, where customers come back time and time again for owner Rod and Sonia’s generous homemade fayre and loose leaf tea.

Coffee roasters have been carefully selected to provide the highest quality blends and there is also a large range of organic teas. The bar also stocks superb wines, West Country produced artisan gins and vodka, quality beers and local ales.

The Black Dog Tea Room is dog-friendly so a walk up the River Lim with your furry friend can end with a lovely cup of tea and a cake, snack or a filling lunch with Rod and Sonia serving up generous helpings, all lovingly made by hand and excellently presented.

Nearly everything is made on the premises - bread, rolls, cakes and scones - and they use locally-sourced produce where possible. The bacon for the Somerset brie and bacon rolls comes from Colyton Butchers, the eggs used in the roasted pepper, mushroom and cherry tomato quiche are free range and come from just up the road, and the toast used in Rod's Rustic Rarebit is made on site using flour hand-milled at the Town Mill in Lyme Regis.

With need for more space, Rod and Sonia have built a summerhouse as an extension to the light and airy tea room, with the idea that it can be hired out for meetings or private lunches. It looks out over the landscaped garden, where you can also enjoy lunch on those warmer days, and has a lovely view of the Lym Valley.

The Black Dog Tea Room is on Lyme Road heading towards Lyme Regis and is open every day except Wednesdays, when Rod and Sonia can instead be found walking their two dogs, Martha and Jorge, along the east beach towards Charmouth, Martha chasing the seagulls and Jorge meeting new friends to play with, and Rod and Sonia enjoying the walk and sea air.

Lyme Road, Uplyme 01297 444063 | blackdogtearoom.co.uk

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8-10 Bridge Street, Lyme Regis 01297 444700 | thelymebay.co.uk

●

EATING OUT The Courtyard Café T

Penny Black Café

UCKED away at the historic Town Mill - the ‘artisan’ quarter of Lyme Regis - The Courtyard Café offers a variety of cooked breakfasts and wholesome lunches, homemade cakes and afternoons teas, alongside morning leaf teas and fresh coffee.

Owned by chef Laura, who has 25-plus years experience, all food served at The Courtyard Café is freshly made, honest and locally sourced, Fair Trade and organic where possible. Everything is cooked on the premises with love, care, attention to detail and nutrition in mind.

Meat is supplied from Colyton Butchers or local farms, vegetables and salad are seasonal and local when possible from Trill Farm or the owners’ own gardens, and fish is caught in Lyme Bay. The coffee served is locally roasted and carefully sourced from The Coffee Factory at Seaton Junction, and the tea is hand-blended, organic and Fair Trade from Teas Me in Exeter. The Town Mill’s own flour is also put to good use to make bread, cakes, pastries and scones.

The Courtyard Café can also cater for special dietary requirements and offers catering for private functions, with space for up to 26 people in the cosy café which overlooks the River Lim. The environmentally-conscious café recycles 80 per cent of its waste. Bottles, tins, plastic, paper and cardboard go back to The Bottle Man, and raw food waste, coffee grout and tea leaves go to Trill Farm Organics to grow vegetables, herbs and salad.

The hardworking team promise you a warm and friendly welcome, serving you with a cheery smile and efficient service.

The Courtyard Café is open seven days a week from 10am to 4pm seven days a week, closing in January. For more details, visit the website courtyardcafelyme.co.uk

P

ENNY Black Cafe is situated in what was once the town's mail sorting room.

Tucked behind the Post Office on Broad Street, this vintage-inspired tearoom and courtyard garden is named after the world's first adhesive postage stamp.

The friendly family-run eatery is open Tuesday to Saturday in winter from 9am to 4.30pm, serving breakfasts, light lunches, cakes and bakes, cream teas, fresh soup and delicious homemade special dishes.

Using wholesome, locally sourced ingredients, meals are made from scratch on the premises, and owners Ben and Nicky are happy to make tweaks to suit different diets.

Gluten-free, vegetarian and vegan options are available, including soya versions of the cafe's wide range of popular milkshakes, and yummy vegan and vegetarian breakfasts.

Pop in for a freshly brewed cuppa and a warm and friendly welcome, and you're sure to want to come back time and time again.

Mill Lane, Lyme Regis 01297 445757 | courtyardcafelyme.co.uk

Breakfast | Lunch | Afternoon Tea Town Mill, Mill Lane, Lyme Regis www.courtyardcafelyme.co.uk

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37 Broad Street, Lyme Regis (behind the post office)

EATING OUT The Galley Café

Amid Giants & Idols

F

ounded by Keian Gillet, a chef with international credentials and a passionate board-rider, the Galley Café brings a touch of its owner’s relaxed surf chic to Lyme Regis.

Based in the centre of Broad Street, The Galley has gained a popular following and reputedly serves “the best breakfasts in town”, available all day.

Decorated with surf boards, quirky artwork and seaside colours, the Galley brings thoughts of the beach to mind even on the coldest of days, and its cosy snug is the perfect place to warm up with a hot drink.

Keian and his close-knit team pride themselves on the fact that almost every item on offer in the café - from the best-selling Guinness cake to the wide selection of savoury flatbreads - is made fresh on the premises. In fact, the only things not born and bred in Dorset are the Cornish pasties, which come courtesy of the award-winning Posh Pasty Company and are baked in-house each morning.

In addition to a window display full of enticing treats to takeaway, the Galley also offers a broad lunchtime menu, whether you fancy a freshly-baked baguette with your favourite choice of filling, or a warming stew or summery salad.

Coffee lovers should pay a visit too, as the Galley boasts a traditional Italian-style coffee machine and source its beans from neighbours and coffee fanatics Amid Giants and Idols, who possess their own microroaster and prepare their speciality blends on site.

The Galley will be hosting a free lunch on Christmas Day, opening its doors to the anybody wanting company and community.

Donations of food have already been provided by Colyton Butchers, Cains Farm and others, and volunteers have come forward to help Keian Gillett host the ‘Galley Giveback Community Christmas Lunch’ Those wishing to attend must book in advance by calling 01297 445008. You can also call this number to refer someone you think may be interested, or to volunteer.

14 Broad Street, Lyme Regis 01297 445008 | galleycafe.co.uk

O

n Silver Street in Lyme Regis, you’ll find one of Lyme’s best loved coffee houses, Amid Giants & Idols.

Open daily (except Tuesdays in winter) for coffee, teas, a variety of delicious hot chocolates (including chilli) and smoothies, as well as home-made and gluten-free cakes, sandwiches, homemade soups and winter specials, served with locally sourced artisan bread.

Working with artisan roasters from across the South West, Steve and Elaine always have a variety of single origin coffees on offer, plus their own house blend ‘Coast’.

With comfy seating, board games, magazines and newspapers, there’s a friendly, relaxed atmosphere in this pet and family friendly Coffee House.

While you are there, check out the range of coffee and tea making accessories & equipment, artisan chocolates and freshly roasted coffees on offer.

59 Silver Street, Lyme Regis 01297 443791 | amidgiantsandidols.co.uk

Breakfasts served all day Lunch, sandwiches, baguettes and hot snacks Daily Specials available Children’s menu Coffee, tea and soft drinks

01297 445008

59 Silver St, Lyme Regis DT7 3HR

info@amidgiantsandidols.co.uk

01297 443791

Broad Street, Lyme Regis

@LymeLifeMag

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EATING OUT

Pecorama

P

ecorama is home of the Beer Heights Light Railways and sits above the beautiful village of Beer, overlooking the Jurassic Coast.

Throughout the summer season it is visited by families and Railway enthusiasts alike. During the winter season the Garden Room Restaurant is open Wednesday to Sunday from 10am to 5pm and is free to visit.

Catering manager Gill Reynolds has built a good strong team over the past season with a real interest and passion to see local ingredients and local suppliers as their main focus, with monthly menus featuring seasonal dishes and good hearty winter warmers.

Pecorama invites you to come along and visit, whether it be for a good hearty fireman or engine driver’s breakfast, served between 10am and 12noon, or a light lunch of homemade soup and crusty bread. For something more substantial, why not try the daily casserole or stew and dumplings, or visit on Sundays for a delicious roast dinner with a vegetarian option. Booking for this is essential (call on 01297 21542).

With Christmas planning and arrangements well under way at Pecorama, bookings now being taken for ‘It’s a Pecorama Christmas Cracker’ on the weekends of December 7th and 8th, 14th and 15th and 21st and 22nd. Tickets are now on sale on the Pecorama website, including light refreshments for both adults and children during the interval with homemade Christmas cookies and warm mince pies, plus drinks for all those watching the show. Book now to avoid disappointment.

The Garden Room will be serving some delicious Christmas meals in December and Christmas lunches on each Sunday that the show is featured, so don’t delay – book today and enjoy a pre-season lunch with all the trimmings!

Look out for our New Year’s offers coming soon. If you would like to reserve a table for a group to enjoy lunch out, give us a call, we’re happy to help.

Pecorama, Underleys, Beer, Seaton 01297 21542 | pecorama.co.uk

What’s on...

DON’T MISS A THING IN AND AROUND LYME THIS WINTER! NOVEMBER 29th Christmas Bingo In aid of Cancer Research UK Woodmead Halls, 8pm.

NOVEMBER 30th Christmas Fayre & Duck Race Stalls and refreshments at Uplyme Village Hall from 10am, followed by duck race at 12noon.

Christmas Lights Switch-On Annual lantern-making workshop at Lyme Regis Baptist Church from 3pm, followed by lantern competition at 4.30pm, parade down Broad Street at 5.15pm and the big switch-on at 5.30pm (see page 4).

Arabian Nights Supper & Auction In aid of Uplyme Community Sponsorship Scheme and to be held at Uplyme Village Hall from 7pm - call 01297 442138 for tickets.

Uplyme FC Auction Sports memorabilia, tickets and more up for grabs in this Uplyme Football Club fundraiser at the Nag’s Head, 8pm.

DECEMBER 5th - DECEMBER 7th ‘Are You Going to the Marine?’

A special community play celebrating the 125th anniversary of the Marine Theatre, staged nightly at 7.30pm.

DECEMBER 6th Charity Poker Night In aid of mental health charity Mind, hosted at Lyme Regis Football Club with a chilli and chips supper, 7pm.

DECEMBER 7th Uplyme Church Fayre Stalls, children’s activities and festive refreshments from 12noon.

Christmas Auction In aid of and hosted at Lyme Regis Football Club, 7pm.

DECEMBER 9th DECEMBER 10th Charity Santa Sleigh Touring the streets of Lyme on both evenings - look out for timings and routes coming soon (see page 5).

DECEMBER 14th Over 70s Christmas Lunch

Woodmead Halls from 12noon.

DECEMBER 15th LRFC Christmas Lunch All welcome at this Christmas lunch in aid of and hosted by Lyme Regis Football Club, 12.30pm. Call 07810 221420 to book.

Lyme Community Carols Join in with traditional carols as singers make their way around Lyme Regis from 5pm - all welcome to join (see page 5).

DECEMBER 23rd Carols Around the Tree Traditional carols around the tree in Broad Street, hosted by the Rotary Club of Lyme Regis, 7pm (see page 5).

DECEMBER 25th Christmas Day Swim Annual fancy dress swim off Charmouth beach in aid of the RNLI, 11am sharp but entrants should arrive early (see page 16).

JANUARY 1st New Year’s Day Duck Race In aid of Lyme Regis Christmas Lights Committee, starting at Windsor Terrace 12noon Lyme Lunge Annual New Year’s Day swim off Lyme Regis beach, organised by the Rotary Club of Lyme Regis, 1pm sharp but entrants should arrive early (see page 16).

FEBRUARY 3rd Soup & Plougman’s Lunch Hosted by the Rotary Club of Lyme Regis at the Alexandra Hotel, 12noon.

FEBRUARY 19th FEBRUARY 22nd ‘Hickory Dickory Dock’ A production by Lyme Regis Pantomime Society, held nightly 7.30pm at Woodmead Halls with Saturday matinee at 2.30pm.

FEBRUARY 29th Roaring 1920s Ball An evening of style and glamour of the 1920s with live music, buffet and speakeasy cocktails at Lyme Regis Football Club. For tickets call 07810 221 420.

Look out for weekly live music and DJs at Lyme Regis pubs, a varied programme at the Marine Theatre and regular events at the Town Mill and Lyme Regis Museum!

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It’s all happening at LIVE MUSIC every Friday and Saturday throughout December

WEDNESDAYS

LIVE MUSIC 8.30 - 10.30pm

TWO COCKTAILS FOR £10 6.00 - 10.30pm

THURSDAYS

QUIZ NIGHT 8.00pm

CASH PRIZES + £100 JACKPOT PRIZE

FRIDAYS

FIZZY FRIDAYS

BOTTLE OF PROSECCO £15 5.00 - 10.00pm

LIVE MUSIC 9.00 - 11.00pm

Food served all day every day 8am - 9pm Children and dogs welcome

1 Bridge Street, Lyme Regis DT7 3QA - 01297 443157

Discover over 300 festive Holiday Cottages

01297 44 33 63 LYMEBAYHOLIDAYS.CO.UK

Explore our independently inspected holiday cottages along the Jurassic Coast and in the heart of the Dorset and Devon countryside. From traditional to contemporary properties.