LymeOnline August 10 2018

A bumper Lifeboat and Carnival Week edition!

PHOTO SPECIALS ON PAGES 10-13 & 20-23

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Support for youth council at Woodroffe

TOWN councillors have given their support to plans to set up a youth council at the Woodroffe School in Lyme Regis.

The proposal to set up a youth council was brought to last week’s Tourism, Community & Publicity Committee by chairman Councillor Cheryl Reynolds.

Members backed the idea, but refused to set aside a budget for the youth council until it had been set up.

REPORT, PAGE 3

Lyme mourns death of Austen descendant

LYME Regis is mourning the death of Diana Shervington, aged 99, a popular character in the town known as a direct descendant of author Jane Austen.

Her grandmothers, Louisa and Elizabeth, were sisters, and granddaughters of Edward, Jane Austen’s brother.

Diana moved to Lyme Regis with her husband Rupert and three children in 1986 and was a sought-after public speaker for Jane Austen enthusiasts.

REPORT, PAGE 18

Lifeboat Week raises £26,000!

MEMBERS of Lyme Regis lifeboat crew pictured before taking part in the annual bathtub race, as part of a week-long programme of fundraising events in aid of the RNLI. See pages 10-13 for our Lifeboat Week photo special

Events policy u-turn COUNCIL BACKTRACKS ON PLANS TO BAN FESTIVALS DURING SUMMER LYME Regis Town Council has made a u-turn on its plans to ban major events and festivals during the peak season, after being described as “over-bureaucratic”.

The suggestion that festivals should not be held during the school holidays or on Bank Holidays, when the town is already busy, was put forward in June as

FRANCESCA EVANS

francesca@lyme-online.co.uk part of a new events policy.

Members of the Tourism, Community & Publicity Committee originally agreed to the proposal, but said that exceptions would be made for Lifeboat Week, Regatta & Carnival Week and the Fossil Festival, which had historically been held on set dates, as well as the council’s own Community Week.

However, the jazz festival, folk

festival and B Sharp’s Busking Festival would be affected, as well as any new events.

Several reasons were given for the proposed restriction on event dates, including too many events distracting from the nature and character of the town and more major events encroaching into the main season when the town “would normally be full”.

The proposal sparked outrage from many event organisers and residents, who took to social media

to describe the council as “out of touch”.

When the matter was taken to full council, it was agreed that it needed further consideration and was sent back to be discussed again at last week’s tourism meeting.

Fran Williams, chief executive of youth music charity B Sharp, spoke in the public forum, asking councillors to consult with event organisers before making any policies.

She commented: “We have CONTINUED ON PAGE 2

Cricket club struggles with lack of players

HAVING succeeded in saving their club financially, Uplyme and Lyme Regis cricketers are now facing another challenge - a lack of players.

The club has been forced to cancel its last two Devon League games and is struggling to complete its fixtures until the end of the season.

REPORT, PAGE 28

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Banning events during summer is ‘wholly wrong’, says councillor CONTINUED FROM FRONT PAGE brought the children of this town to the fore, we have created a positive culture towards young people that the council can be very proud of.

“The Busking Festival is inter-generational, it’s community and it’s fun, everyone looks forward to it. It’s simple to put on, it works, please keep it that way.

“If you’re going to review events and make policies, please consult with us and other event organisers to prevent the risk of organisations and people pitching against one another.

“We don’t have the luxury of having a large infrastructure, lots of money in the bank or a large organisation behind us. We are a small charity, this is a fundraiser and it’s very much about Lyme.

“The Busking Festival is a real opportunity for our town to be proud of our children, their talent, bravery and growing skills. It’s an important opportunity and experience for young people.”

Julie Sheppard, who organises Jazz Jurassica - formerly known as the Jazz & Blues Festival also called for members to reconsider the events policy, describing it as “overly bureaucratic” and an “over-regulated approach”.

“In our view your proposals are flawed because they try to fix something which isn’t broken. The current arrangements for managing events actually work rather well and require nothing more than tweaking, not a total overhaul,” she said.

“There is simply no evidence that any existing events have caused significant problems on the seafront or intensified visitor pressure on the town.

“We don’t need this overly bureaucratic or over-regulated approach. So, don’t take a sledge hammer to crack a nut.

“We’ve been running a well-organised event without major problems on the seafront for year.

So, why is this an issue now?”

Mrs Sheppard said she believed the council’s proposed new approach to events followed the recent Dorset Street Food Festival, which brought traders from outside the town to the seafront on the same weekend as her own jazz festival.

She continued: “For the record, it was your own officials who invited them here and many of the concerns raised by councillors and others relate specifically to that event.

“You should not allow that experience with them to unfairly colour your views about us, and other local events on the seafront. Don’t compound your original mistake by now penalising local organisations for problems they do not and have never caused.”

‘Red tape on steroids’ Mrs Sheppard also questioned whether moving major events to the “shoulder seasons” would work. She said she had no intention of moving the date of the jazz festival, which had always been held on the late May Bank Holiday, and ticketed events in private venues such as the Marine Theatre would continue to go ahead.

“The only thing you’d kill off is the free community festival on the seafront,” she added.

Mrs Sheppard said she “lost the will to live” while reading the council’s proposed new events policy and procedure, which she described as “red tape on steroids”.

Councillor Richard Doney also expressed concerns about the events policy, saying he could not vote in favour of it after giving it some considerable thought since the previous meeting.

He said there was no actually evidence that major events during the peak season caused the problems that had been suggested, and that the council was “not going to achieve very much” as events could continue in venues and on land not owned by the council.

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“We should be helping people and encouraging people to do things,” he added.

“These people volunteer, they’re not making fortunes, they bring prestige to the town and I think they’re worthwhile because they give the town a different flavour.

“We’re just giving out the wrong message if we go along with this.”

Councillor Steve Miller accepted that the council had been “caught out” at the beginning of the season, with problems regarding waste collection and double booking the food festival and jazz festival.

However, he added: “To put in place something that says we are going to ban events is totally and wholly wrong. What we should do and what we’ve always done is look at each event on its merits.”

Councillor John Broom said that the council was not trying to ban events, but to “realign them”.

“I think we have to do something because this year I have had people say to me, ‘there’s always something on, there’s no peace and quiet’. That’s the feedback I’m getting from the ratepayers of Lyme Regis and we should think about our ratepayers as much as we think about holidaymakers,” he added.

The Mayor of Lyme Regis, Councillor Michaela Ellis, said she thought the policy was “over the top” and the council just needed to look at the booking system for events.

Councillor Sean Larcombe said the council should be encouraging people to want to come back to Lyme Regis, especially through events which were “virtually free” in the school holidays.

It was agreed to remove the restriction on dates when major events and festivals can be held from the new events policy, which will now have to be ratified by full council.

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Signage ‘essential’ to ease Lyme’s severe traffic issues THE importance of effective signage in solving Lyme’s serious traffic chaos was expressed by members of the town council’s Town Management Committee.

Councillor Brian Larcombe told the meeting that that very day another lorry got stuck around the Guildhall corner causing massive traffic chaos in the town.

He said: “I did speak to the driver and asked him what led him to drive through Lyme. He made his delivery on the other side of town and I asked him if it was his sat nav taking him through the town.

“He said no. His next delivery was Dorchester and he decided to drive through the town. It was an articulated lorry with a trailer, the length of which ran from the traffic lights almost back to the Pilot Boat. He got it stuck and after a lot of skilful driving he got it turned around.

“The point he made, as a very experienced driver, was quite simple. He said HGV signs are not a bit of good because smaller vehicles can carry larger weights. He said you need a size restriction sign which should be no more than 30 feet and those signs do exist.”

The Mayor, Councillor Michaela Ellis, said as

PHILIP EVANS

philip@lyme-online.co.uk this incident was happening someone had approached her to say they had actually contacted West Dorset District Council and asked if they ever came to check the weights of any vehicles and they had not received a reply.

Councillor Larcombe: “I have been calling for a size restriction sign for along time. What we need is an advisory sign which says what is approaching is unsuitable for the size of their vehicle and that’s what they need to know. These signs have to be pursued as these drivers don’t know until they are stuck. This driver said he’s seen them in other parts of the country.”

Deputy town clerk Mark Green said that signs on any road, other than the A35, were a matter for the county council as the road authority and the manual literally contained hundreds of signs, width, weight and length restrictions and some advisory signs that indicated narrow bridges.

He said: “All sorts of things are possible but it is a matter of persuading the county council that it is appropriate to use them and finding the right place to put them. They have to be in a po-

Working together to combat crime THE first meeting with a view to setting up a Town Watch scheme to help combat crime in Lyme Regis was held last week.

Town and district councillor Cheryl Reynolds, who is also chairman of the local residents’ association, organised the meeting at Halletts Court in Queen’s Walk last week, where several residents gathered to learn more about the scheme.

Councillor Reynolds said that she was looking for volunteers from all areas of Lyme Regis to come forward to form the Town Watch. The volunteers would be asked to look out for suspicious behaviour in their area, share information with neighbours and help report crime.

Councillor Reynolds said the scheme was being supported by the local police, and encouraged residents to work together to help officers faced by funding cuts.

Police Community Support Officer Amanda King attended the event, introducing herself to

residents and handing out information on the existing Neighbourhood Watch scheme.

She said residents often told her about incidents while she was in patrol on the town but said they did not officially report them to police and encouraged everyone to do so by calling 101 or 999 in an emergency.

A second public meeting regarding the Town Watch scheme will be held on Wednesday, August 22 at 7pm in the Woodmead Halls are all residents are welcome to attend.

■ LymeOnline last week reported on its front page that the Town Watch scheme was not being supported by the police, as they did not want to encourage a “vigilante” movement.

We were given this information from a reliable source as correct at the time of going to press but police later gave their approval for the scheme. We apologise for any confusion caused.

sition which gives the driver the opportunity to turn around or choose an alternative route. If they can’t do that, the signs are pointless. I think we could find a position if that was the case.

“We can pursue it but I think we shall also require the support of the police. An advisory sign might cure 90 per cent of the problem and we would not need police support.

Councillor Larcombe: “Lack of police presence and the reporting of incidents is not sufficient.

As well as anti-social behaviour, this is another case.

“Putting a sign on the B3052, the problem is you are only going to read that when you have left the roundabout coming up from Charmouth.

You need to know before you get there.

“We are also getting traffic coming from the Sidmouth direction, we need to direct this through Musbury and onto the Axminster bypass and we need a sign at Hunters Lodge saying don’t even think about coming through Lyme.”

Councillor Larcombe said they would have to speak to East Devon District Council about the problem and get Highways England to recognise it as well.

Cllr Jeff Scowen said they had to be “much more forceful and gather evidence, adding: “It’s crazy. It’s actually out of our hands and all we can do is put on more pressure than we have been doing.”

Mr Green said: “It’s not acceptable. The incident today must have tied up five or six members of staff for quite a few hours in dealing with traffic problems. From that sense it is not good.”

Councillor Stan Williams: “There’s a sign at Charlton Cross on the wrong side of the road. It’s totally inadequate and we need to be chasing them on that.”

Committee chairman John Broom said: “I don’t see why we can’t put some signs on private land.

Councillor Scowen: “That’s a great idea. We could do it next week.”

Councillor Williams said that several weeks ago they decided to put a sign up at the Sidmouth Road park and ride (now not operational), directing people to the Charmouth Road site, but nothing had happened.

“People don’t realise there’s another park and ride at the other side of the town and last weekend we desperately needed that,” he added.

Mr Green said the matter was in hand but it had to be agreed by Highways England.

Plans to set up youth council at Woodroffe TOWN councillors have given their support to plans to set up a youth council at the Woodroffe School in Lyme Regis.

The proposal to set up a youth council was brought to last week’s Tourism, Community & Publicity Committee by chairman Councillor Cheryl Reynolds.

Members backed the idea, but refused to set aside a budget for the youth council until it had been set up.

Councillor Reynolds said she had been in discussion with the British Youth Council, Dorchester Youth Council and the Woodroffe School, which was willing to set up the youth council after the summer holiday.

The aim of the youth council would be to empower young people aged 18 and under to influence and inform the decision that affect their lives. It would encourage young people to get involved in their community and democracy on a local, national and international level, making a difference as volunteers, campaigners, decisionmakers and leaders.

Councillor Reynolds said that every youth council in the country that worked well had an allocated budget, so the students could work on their own projects similar to a town council. But town councillors were concerned they did not

know what the money would be spent on.

Councillor Sean Larcombe asked: “Is there a set amount for the budget, what’s it for and who’s accountable for it?”

The Mayor of Lyme Regis, Councillor Michaela Ellis, added: “My concern with this is, how much budget are we thinking? What if they go and do something with this that we don’t like?

“We have to raise own finances from things that we do to have a budget. I’d love to see a youth council but there’s got to be some sort of stipulation on it.

“To me there needs to be a bit more two-way communication. They need to come to us with a project and ask us for a specific amount of money and raise some themselves. That’s more what I would envisage them doing.”

Councillor Reynolds replied: “But they will be coming to us, that’s how a youth council works.

In this town, what have we got for the kids?

“We’ve got nothing; we’re taking things away left, right and centre. We need to plug the gap, we need to be seen as a council to be plugging that gap.”

Councillor Patrick Ridley expressed concern that the youth council would only be open to students from the Woodroffe School, and not other young people from Lyme who attended other

schools in the area.

Councillor Reynolds said they could set up their own youth councils in other schools.

Councillor Ridley replied: “But it’s not Lyme Regis youth council.”

Councillor Reynolds: “Fine, we’ll just vote on it and forget it then.”

Councillor Ellis replied: “Don’t get like that, we’re trying to have a debate about this and decide the best way forward. To me, there’s no information here that tells me how it’s going to work.”

Councillor Stan Williams said there had been attempts to set up a youth council in the past but there had never been enough interest, as many students from Woodroffe lived out of town or were too busy.

However, he added: “It would be great to show them how this council works for the future.”

Councillor Reynolds added: “The future is our children, without our children we have no future.”

It was agreed to support the setting up of the youth council at the Woodroffe School, and to invite students to come to the council and ask for a specific budget after they had discussed what projects they would like to work on.

Friday, August 10 2018 3

Motorcyclist suffers serious injuries in crash with bus POLICE are appealing for witnesses following a road accident in Lyme Regis which left a motorcyclist with potentially life-threatening injuries.

Dorset Police was called at 3.33pm on Thursday, August 2 to reports of a collision on the A3052, near to the junction with Timber Hill.

The collision involved an open top doubledecker bus and a blue and white Suzuki motorcycle.

As a result of the crash, the motorcyclist – a 25-year-old man from the Devon area – sustained serious, potentially life-changing injuries and was taken by air ambulance to Southmead Hospital in Bristol, where he remains in a stable condition.

The bus driver and a small number of passengers were uninjured.

Police Constable Stu Smith, of the traffic unit, said: “I am appealing to anyone who witnessed the collision or the manner of driving of either of the vehicles prior to the incident to please contact Dorset Police. I’d also ask anyone with dashcam footage to get in touch.

“I’d like to thank the public for their patience while the closures were in place, which were necessary to allow the casualty to be treated, for the scene to be thoroughly examined and for the involved vehicles to be recovered.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk, via email at scit@dorset.pnn.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting incident number 2:324. Alternatively, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or via www.crimestoppersuk.org

Lifeboat crew rescue broken down fishing boat LYME Regis lifeboat was launched on Monday, August 6 to a report of a broken down small fishing vessel.

The volunteer crew were tasked to assist the coastguard with a stranded fishing vessel which had suffered a power failure with two people aboard. The boat was reported to be four miles south of Lyme Regis.

The volunteer crew were quick to launch after being contacted by the coastguard at 6.20pm to assist a fishing boat that had suffered power failure. They set up a tow and were soon back in Lyme Regis harbour where the casualty boat was recovered.

The lifeboat was back in the station by 7.30pm.

Jon Broome, helm of the crew said: “It was a quick and efficient recovery of the fishing boat and the crew worked well as a team to ensure the safety of the casualty.”

Representing West Dorset on hospital foundation FOLLOWING the recent Dorset County Hospital NHS Foundation Trust Governor Elections, former West Dorset District councillor and a good friend of Lyme Regis, being an uncle of current mayor Michaela Ellis, David Tett was re-elected for a further term of three years representing West Dorset which includes Lyme Regis.

Writing to this newspaper, Mr Tett said: “I would, therefore, through the columns of your Paper like to express my thanks to those Members of the DCH who supported me in the election.

“Although a Governor has only a limited responsibility, nevertheless, the roll one plays is a very rewarding one, particularly in the present climate of funding restraints and staff shortages.”

LOOK OUR FOR OUR NEXT ISSUE ON AUGUST 24

Until then you can catch up with all the latest at www.lyme-online.co.uk

4 Friday, August 10 2018

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NEWS ONLINE: Catch up with A round-up of the top stories from our website

Poppy garden tribute Headstone stolen from cemetery for WWI centenary TRIBUTES will be paid to those who lost their lives during the First World War with a poppy garden in Lyme Regis. The garden has been created to commemorate the centenary of the end of the Great War and the public are being invited to add their tributes and messages. A section of Langmoor Gardens has been dedicated to the memorial, where poppy crosses can be placed in the ground to honour the fallen.

POLICE are appealing for information after a headstone was stolen from Lyme Regis cemetery.

Dorset Police received a report at about 1.15pm on Thursday, July 26 that the headstone had been taken from the cemetery off Charmouth Road.

It carried the names ‘Austin Arthur William Speed’ and ‘Joyce Constance Speed’ and was believed to

have been taken sometime over the past six weeks.

Mr Speed only died last year.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police via the website www.dorset.police.uk, by emailing 101@dorset.pnn.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55180118932.

Carnival committee donates to sea school Luggers offer beginners’ training Council clears tonnes of seaweed THE Regatta & Carnival Committee has helped Lyme Regis Sea School Trust to purchase replacement sails with a donation of £500. The muchappreciated donation has been used to purchase replacement sails for some of the Laser 2000 dinghies for the volunteer-run school, which teaches about 200 pupils a year.

THE Lyme Luggers Ukulele Group has become a regular feature at many local events since forming in October 2013 and they are now offering beginner ukulele lessons for just £2 for 45 minutes to anyone interested in learning more about this fascinating and versatile instrument.

LYME Regis Town Council took quick action last week when tonnes of seaweed washed up on the beach. After the wet and windy weather last weekend, piles of seaweed were left on the beach and council’s outside staff spent hours clearing it with a tractor to ensure visitors could enjoy Lifeboat Week events.

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Volunteers needed for Candles event VOLUNTEERS are needed to help set up and light candles for the spectacular Candles On The Cobb in Lyme Regis, to be held on Sunday, August 26. There will be a briefing session for volunteers at Lyme Regis Power Boat Club on Monmouth Beach, 7pm for a 7.15pm start on Friday, August 17. A full instruction sheet will be handed out at this event.

Friday, August 10 2018 5

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the latest from Lyme Regis

FROM LYME’S OW N COMMUNIT Y WEBSITE

Stay up to date at www.lyme-online.co.uk - 24/7 news | sport | community A fitting end for a non-stop week

First 100 professionals join Dorset Care Record MORE than 100 health and social care professionals have signed up to the Dorset Care Record (DCR), marking a milestone for the project which aims to create a comprehensive and up to date record for every resident having treatment in the county. Information that can be shared through the system includes contact details and care needs, lists of diagnosed conditions, medications, allergies, tests results and referrals, clinic letter and discharge information.

Hub becomes home for Christian ministry ALIVE Christian Ministries stayed at The Hub in Lyme Regis for three nights last week. The youngsters loved their visit to the town and took part in several Lifeboat Week activities, as well as making the most of the facilities at The Hub, which raises funds to continue its youth club through residential stays.

Surprise guest sails into Lyme for Lifeboat Week LIFEBOAT Week organisers welcomed a surprise special guest to their events last week. Journalist and ‘Question Time’ presenter David Dimbleby sailed into Lyme with his son Henry on their way to Dartmouth, while the lifeboat crew were hosting a scheduled celebrity guest appearance from Lord Julian Fellowes, creator of ‘Downton Abbey’. See pages 1013.

IN the last edition of LymeOnline I wrote about how much I was looking forward to the busy six weeks of summer getting underway.

But looking back the first week I’m not sure I can keep up the same pace!

Lifeboat Week went off with a bang and, while it’s brilliant fun and excellent for the RNLI coffers, I’m not sure it was so good for my health!

Soaking up the sunshine, eating hot dogs and bacon rolls in the lifeboat station and one too many late nights as the local pubs put on live music all week. Everyone was looking a little bleary-eyed at the charity football match at the end of the week - in fact I’m not sure how anyone managed to run around the pitch - but they still headed out for the firework finale and one last night on the town.

Congratulations to the Lifeboat Week organisers - they persevered through disappointing weather on the opening weekend, cancelling very few events, and the sun soon came out to help them raise an estimated £26,000 for the RNLI! See pages 10-13 for our photo special.

Lyme Regis Regatta & Carnival Committee took over the seafront on Saturday and events seem to be equally as busy (see pages 20-23).

It was great to see the return of the open air cinema in Lister Gardens on Tuesday night - a classic Regatta & Carnival Week event I loved as a teenager and especially

Look out for official carnival collectors

N E W LO O K

LYME Regis Regatta & Carnival Committee has warned supporters to look out for rogue collectors at its events. The committee was disappointed to find a rouge collector at its Walk of Light on Sunday evening, pretending to collect donations for Regatta & Carnival Week, which donates all profits to local good causes. Official collectors will always be wearing a yellow carnival tabard, lanyard with their name and will carry a sealed, yellow collection bucket.

LYM E R E G I S

appreciated following the sad demise of our Regent Cinema.

There couldn’t have been a more appropriate setting to watch the original ‘Jurassic Park’ movie than with the backdrop of the Jurassic Coast fading into darkness behind.

The week will reach its finale on Saturday night with the grand carnival procession, starting at 8pm.

This past week has been doubly busy in the Evans household as we’ve welcomed friends and family for Dad’s 70th birthday celebrations.

Scorching sunshine graced our party at the football club on Saturday and the celebrations came to a fitting end at the Alexandra Hotel’s film night on Wednesday.

Films are screened every month in the hotel’s recently renovated Peek Chapel and when we saw August’s offering was ‘The Post’ - based on the Washington Post’s coverage of the Nixon administration and Vietnam War - we thought it would be a perfect present for Dad, celebrating 53 years in journalism this year.

Tickets included a pre-movie twocourse dinner in the Alexandra’s dining room and a cocktail aptly named ‘The Journalist’.

Francesca Evans, Editor

Sunday Sequence Every evening 8-10pm Dancing Fitness that’s ‘Strictly’ Fun New dancers welcome

Fun, Fab, Dance Based Fitness Join Sarah on Tuesday mornings from 10-11am for 1st session free Call 07788 946 427 for more information Other regular events include Ballet, Yoga, Pilates, Bingo and Short Mat Bowls

Award-winning actor leads comedy night LYME Regis Comedy Club will this month be headlined by BAFTA award-winning actor, Dave Johns, who famously played the lead in the acclaimed film ‘I Daniel Blake’. He is also a celebrated comic and will be joined at the Marine Theatre on Saturday, August 25 by Dan Thomas, Karen Bayley and host Tom Glover, from Bridport. See www.marinetheatre.com for details.

To book the Woodmead Halls telephone Michaela Ellis on 07856 630975 Follow us on Twitter @WoodmeadHalls and Facebook at www.facebook.com/woodmeadhalls

6 Friday, August 10 2018

LYME MATTERS with Philip Evans Essential reading for all those with Lyme at heart

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philip@lyme-online.co.uk

Walking back to happiness T

The care from the nursing staff at Dorchester County Hospital was fantastic and after being sent home with a shipping order for medication I was left to consider advice from my doctor that the cause was nothing but 40 years of body abuse.

Feeling sorry for myself, I decided I had two options whilst recovering - to sit on my backside and watch day-time TV or get out there and get myself fit.

I decided that I would walk to the end of my road and back several times a day and then extend the distance every day until I was walking from my home in Anning Road to the end of The Cobb, about two miles.

I did that six days a week for about a year until an old football knee injury started playing up and I was unable to do it so frequently. But it cured my limit and helped tremendously to lose a few pounds and, as a type 2 diabetic, to reduce my sugar levels significantly.

Exercise really is the best way to keep diabetes at bay.

I tell this story because having reached the age of three score and ten, and having put back on all the weight I lost, I have decided to return to my daily routine of walking to The Cobb and back. Sometimes I do it twice a day. When I started doing it I made it a race, trying to beat my fastest time, which I think was somewhere around 42 minutes 20 seconds.

“Trust you to make a race of it,” says my wife Jackie.

The knee is still a bit rickety and has slowed me down somewhat.

Another reason for doing it is because every other Friday I look after the distribution of 4,000 copies of this newspaper. It takes me five hours and I’m just not fit enough to do it without being washed out the following day.

To continue doing this, I decided I had to get fitter.

But I quite forgot how beautiful Lyme is early morning. I just love seeing the town wake up and the sun rise over Golden Cap and a silvery sea.

The early morning strollers all seem happy and very often say good morning, whether they are known to me or not. Joggers pound up and down and a surprising number take an early morning swim.

The town council outside workforce start early by cleaning the beach and water the floral decorations along the seafront. Dorset Waste operatives are emptying the bins.

My walk takes me to the end of The Cobb where the trawlers are preparing for another hard day’s work at sea and the pleasure boat owners are hoping for a better mackerel catch, in short supply this season.

The deep sea fisherman and divers are often enjoying an early breakfast at the wonderful Beach House Cafe.

At weekends the rowers are launching their gigs.

Deliveries are being made to the pubs and restaurants, whose staff are busy washing down

ANOTHER u-turn from Lyme Regis Town Council in reversing the decision to ban festival events, apart from those long-established, during the school holidays or bank holidays.

Following protests from events that would have been precluded - the popular and well established jazz and folk festivals and the B Sharp busking festival - councillors have changed their minds.

As reported on our front page, the council’s original decision was an attempt to reduce the number of events which detract from the nature and character of the town.

It was a decision that was not completely thought through and the council has been accused of being “overly bureaucratic” and in future they have been asked to consult with the event organisers before making such decisions.

The council also did a u-turn on the application to erect a new lifeguard post on the main beach, apparently the only authority in the country to oppose the new construction which some councillors felt was too imposing on a beach where there had never been a drowning fatality.

After protests from the RNLI, the council, oblivious it would seem to the negative PR such a move would engender, withdrew their objection and the new lifeguard post is up and running and does not look at all overbearing on the beach scene.

There is an upside to this, however. It is good that councillors are big enough to admit they sometimes get it wrong, and are prepared to listen, but it must be very difficult for staff to deal with when this flip-flopping happens so frequently.

EN years ago I suffered a stroke. I was lucky and was left with some partial paralysis down my right side and a slight limp.

SERENE Lyme pictured early morning after the beach had been cleaned and before the hoards of holidaymakers and day trippers arrived the streets outside their premises. At this time of year, Alan and Lynn Vian - what would Lyme do without them? - are preparing for the day’s fun and games on the seafront.

I recognise families who have been coming to Lyme for years and take the same seafront cottage every year. We nod as though we are old acquaintances.

Lyme is at its serene best before the crowds arrive. Some dedicated sun seekers turn up early to grab the best spot on the beach, with all the kit necessary these days for a day at the seaside - windshields, tent, Primus stove, inflatable.

Occasionally I witness the keen beach hut owners cooking breakfast.

Whilst on The Cobb I often take a breather and sit on the wall, looking back over the town, and wonder: “Who lives on that big house on the skyline? Do they appreciate Lyme as much as me?”

To think, ten years ago this could have been taken away from me by my sedentary lifestyle.

ON one of my walks early evening I got involved in an unnecessary spat with a couple of visitors over one of Lyme’s biggest problems.

Sat on The Cobb they started to feed the seagulls, tossing chips, and laughing as they fought for the scraps.

I butted in because a young mother was carrying her baby, probably not more than a month or two old, and the gulls, as they came swooping in, frightened the mother and baby.

I pointed out to the visitors it was an offence to feed the gulls and they could be fined £100.

They protested they didn’t know. They were sat on a seat on The Cobb with a sign behind and one straight in front of them fixed to the railings, saying not to feed the seagulls.

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THINK it was photographer Richard Austin who first floated the idea on Facebook that Lyme should have a statue of one of its most famous residents - fossil hunter extraordinaire Mary Anning.

The idea won wide approval form dozens on social media and town councillor Jeff Scowen, forever anxious to see Lyme’s history celebrated, even went as far as saying he would make sure it happened.

The town council’s Tourism, Community and Publicity Committee, led by Councillor Cheryl Reynolds, is also backing the proposal and discussions are already in hand.

The million pound extension to the town’s museum is named after Mary Anning, who is buried

in the parish churchyard on Church Cliff. The headstone is in pretty poor condition (see photo right) and fossil enthusiast have laid a number of examples at the foot of the grave.

There is no other formal recognition of the woman who arguably has brought more people to the town than any other figure from our past and who has world-wide followers.

No discussion has yet emerged over where a statue of Mary Anning should be sited but the Church Cliff area, or the new Church Cliff Walk, close to where Mary uncovered the most significant geological find of all time, the first complete ichthyosaur, a permanent exhibit in the Natural History Museum in London, would seem to be favourite.

Preliminary discussions over funding for such a project have taken place and Councillor Reynolds is confident that sufficient funds can be raised.

The only other statue recognising one of Lyme’s other historical characters is that of Admiral Sir George Somers, a former mayor of Lyme who was shipwrecked whilst taking supplies to the settlers in Jamestown, Virginia.

That project took a number of years to reach fruition and was only possible by a significant personal donation.

Mary Anning used to live on the site of the museum and I hope that the museum can be involved in the planning of this excellent initiative to honour Lyme’s Lady Of The Cliffs.

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Legion members represent Lyme at the Great Pilgrimage in Belgium TWO members of the Royal British Legion Lyme Regis branch are currently visiting Ypres in Belgium to take part in commemorations for the 100th anniversary of the end of the First World War. Legion member Daniel Buckley, who completed several tours of Afghanistan in bomb disposal, and standard bearer Jon Hunt, who served in the Devon and Dorsets, left Lyme Regis on Sunday morning to take part in the Great Pilgrimage.

A decade after the end of WW1, the British Legion, as it was then known, organised for veterans and war widows to visit the battlefields of the Somme and Ypres before marching to the Menin Gate in Ypres on August 8 1928.

Exactly 90 years later, thousands of Legion representatives have travelled to Belgium to recreate the 1928 Battlefields Pilgrimage and visit the same battlefields.

On Wednesday, branch standards and wreaths were paraded along the same route to the Menin Gate for the One Hundred Days ceremony to commemorate the last 100 days of WW1 and represent an entire generation that served while defending their country.

Daniel and Jon’s participation in the commemorations was supported by Lyme Regis Town Council, which funded the standard

bearer’s expenses to attend and represent the town at this historic and poignant event.

Prior to their departure, Daniel and Jon were pictured at the town’s war memorial, which will be re-dedicated at a ceremony on September 22, coinciding with a visit from The Rifles, when the names of five additional Lyme Regis men will be added.

The photo shows Daniel carrying a special poppy wreath, with inscriptions chosen by the Mayor of Lyme Regis, Councillor Michaela Ellis, and president of the Royal British Legion Lyme Regis branch, Philip Evans MBE, from entries submitted by St Michael’s Primary School pupils.

Legion branch chairman Ian Marshall commented: “The Lyme Regis branch is immensely proud of our young contingent attending this great event, and also extremely grateful to Lyme Regis Town Council for embracing this wonderful event and the various other specially anniversary events being planned this year to commemorate the ending of the great war 100 years ago.”

For more information about the Royal British Legion Lyme Regis branch, visit http://branches.britishlegion.org.uk/branches /lyme-regis or contact chairman Ian Marshall on 07584 993 955 or by emailing lymeregis.chairman@rbl.community

DANIEL Buckley and Jon Hunt, members of the Royal British Legion Lyme Regis branch, pictured at the town’s war memorial before leaving for Ypres, Belgium

Former Lyme resident takes lead role in ‘Mamma Mia!’ FORMER Lyme Regis resident Alec Porter is making his professional West End debut after securing one of the lead roles in ‘Mamma Mia!’.

As Abba fever sweeps the nation - with a rumoured comeback of the 1970s singing sensations and the release of the second ‘Mamma Mia!’ film - Alec takes on the role of Sky in the global smash hit musical.

Born and raised in Lyme Regis, Alec has previously appeared in stage shows of ‘The Sound of Music’, ‘Crime and Punishment - A Rock Musical’, ‘The Odyssey’ and ‘Sleeping Beauty’ but this will be his first time appearing on the West End stage, in London’s Novello Theatre.

The Abba musical, which was the inspiration for the hit 2008 film and sequel released last month, celebrated its 19th anniversary earlier this year.

The cast celebrated with a birthday cake on stage and the producers have announced some major cast changes in the London production, including Alec as Sky, one of the leading male roles played by Dominic Cooper in the films.

He will play opposite Georgia Louise as his fiance Sophie in the romantic comedy, which includes many of Abba’s favourite hits.

The success of ‘Mamma Mia!’ stemmed from Judy Craymer’s vision of staging the story-telling magic of Abba’s timeless songs with an enchanting tale of family and friendship unfolding on a Greek island paradise.

To date, it has been seen by more than 60 million people in 50 productions in 16 different languages, grossing more than $2 billion at the box office.

In 2011, it became the first Western musical ever to be staged in Mandarin in the People’s

FORMER Lyme Regis resident Alec Porter (pictured lying down front, centre) makes his West End debut as Sky in ‘Mamma Mia!’

Republic of China.

The London production of ‘Mamma Mia!’ has been seen by over 8.9 million people, played over 7,750 performances and has bro-

ken box office records in all three of its London homes.

Tribute act Abba Forever will appear at the Marine Theatre in Lyme Regis on Saturday, August 18 - see page 17

Orchid Home Help

thecharmouthpage

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Renovation protects ornate door of Charmouth’s oldest building

Standing ovation for concert pianist

RENOVATION work has been completed on the original stone Tudor doorway to the Abbots House in Charmouth.

The ornate sandstone doorway had suffered from the elements over the years and the detail in the carvings was in danger of being lost.

Sheila and Nick Gilbey, owners of the Abbots House, asked stonework conservationist Dominic Tolson to undertake the work. Dominic was able to stabilize the stone using small steel pins and used lime mortar with the right colour pigment to work into the cracks and maintain the detail in the stonework.

The front of the Abbots House, formerly the Queens Arms, is the oldest building in Charmouth. While it is a very sturdy building it does need constant attention to preserve some of its historic features.

The house is photographed by hundreds of tourists a year as the building displays a plaque stating that King Charles stayed there on September 22 1651. The King was trying to escape from Oliver Cromwell’s soldiers and was given refuge by Margret Ward, landlady of the Queens Armes.

The plan to get Charles II to France by boat from Charmouth beach failed as the skipper’s wife locked her hus-

MOST people know what to expect from an Edward Jacobs’ concert and 93 members of a record audience at St. Andrew’s Church on July 31st were not disappointed.

Edward played a variety of piano pieces from classical composers to modern day musicals, much to the delight of the audience. At the end of the concert he received a standing ovation.

When Liz Sansom first conceived of the idea of the Charmouth Lunchtime Concerts and mentioned it to Edward, without a moment’s hesitation he said, “I’ll do one for you” and this was what we all experienced on the day. Such is Edward’s generosity that he contributed his time free of charge to support the Changing Spaces activities which raise funds towards the renovation of St Andrew’s.

Thanks are due to Mary and Malcolm McNair for providing the refreshments before the concert started.

The next Lunchtime Concert will be held on August 21 at 12.30pm when Kat and Phil will entertain with ‘Jazz and Songs from the Musicals’. As usual the concert will be preceded by refreshments provided at 12noon.

Please note that the content and the date for this concert has changed from that originally publicised.

Roger Sansom

band in his room, as she thought the mission was too dangerous. The King and his entourage were forced to flee Charmouth before Oliver Cromwell’s soldiers arrived.

Today the doorway, which King Charles must have used to escape, is in a much better state to be photographed.

There is an identical doorway at Forde Abbey both with the initials TC carved into the stone. The initials stand for Thomas Chard, the last Abbot of Forde Abbey before the dissolution of the monasteries by Henry VIII. The Abbey built the Abbots House in around 1500AD, Charmouth having been created by the Abbey in the 13th century.

Sheila and Nick Gilbey believe that the Abbots House became the seaside residence of Thomas Chard. There is no evidence to suggest that is the case except that Peter Childs, the conservation officer, who oversaw the changes at the Abbots House in 2007, said that the lavish interior would not normally be found in a building of this size and drew a parallel with the interior of Dartington Hall.

A setting perhaps not fit for a king but certainly good enough for head of Forde Abbey.

DOMINIC Tolson working on the ornate sandstone doorway at The Abbots house in Charmouth

SHOP LOCAL: SUPPORT YOUR VILLAGE SHOPS AND BUSINESSES ADVERTISER’S ANNOUNCEMENT

Jurassic Coast Card signs up 100 local businesses A NEW business venture aimed at getting people out exploring the local area and supporting local businesses is about to hit an exciting milestone.

The Jurassic Coast Card, launched earlier this year, has signed up nearly 100 businesses already, offering cardholders discounts on everything from days out to cream teas, with a wide range of shopping, accommodation and services also on offer. Members buy a card online or in one of the local outlets, and present it to get discounts at venues all along the Jurassic Coast.

With big names such as Seaton Tramway, World of Country Life and Dorset Water Park, and lesser-known or new venues such as Dorset Mud Trail, Rockburn and Tunnel Tree Tops, the website has plenty of ideas for family days out, and lots of local cafes, pubs and shops have also joined in.

Local food and drink producers such as Baboo Gelato and Lyme Bay Winery are on board, and services are very diverse, including estate agents, leisure centres and per-

sonal trainers.

Founder Amy Ralph said: “I have been delighted at the variety of businesses that have joined us, as it gives the public such a great range of opportunities.

“Cardholders will make their money back in no time, and can make significant savings, with many offers worth over £100.

“I have tried to create a business model where everybody wins. Going door to door and meeting as many businesses as possible has given me a whole new insight into the pride and passion people have for their crafts, businesses, towns and communities, and if I can help people communicate that, I see it as a massive boost for everyone involved and hopefully the area as a whole”.

At £10 for A Holiday Pass or just £24 for an Annual Pass, everyone can benefit from the savings on offer, and explore more for less this summer.

For more information visit the website www.jurassiccoastcard.co.uk and look out for the Jurassic Coast Card logo (pictured) in shop and business windows around the area.

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‘Dangerous’ gas cylinder Church to host annual art show found in waste collection

A POTENTIALLY dangerous incident in Uplyme was avoided last week, when the fire service was called to remove a leaking gas cylinder.

The gas cylinder was found in Uplyme during East Devon District Council’s usual waste collection and posed a “significant potential danger” as it was leaking.

District councillor Ian Thomas reported that a dangerous incident was avoided as the removal of the cylinder was handed “quickly, coolly and professionally, to ensure the safety of not just our crew involved, but also we as local residents”.

East Devon District Council worked with SUEZ and the fire service to ensure the cylinder was removed safely and that no members of the public were able to approach the waste collection vehi■ A GRAND auction in aid of Uplyme & Lyme Regis Cricket Club will be held on Saturday, August 18.

The auction will be held at Lyme Regis Football Club starting at 7.30pm with the star prize being the chance to spend the day on the set of ITV series ‘Doc Martin’, starring Martin Clunes, and to have a walk on part as an extra.

Other lots include signed sports memorabilia, more than 100 kilos of local meat and produce, dinner for six cooked by Fossil Food Catering, VIP tickets to Melplash Show and golf day at Castle Combe.

UPLYME Church’s annual art festival will start on Wednesday, August 22 with a talk by local expert Pamela Simpson.

Pam (pictured) has taught in London art schools for more than 30 years and now lives in West Dorset. Her talk, ‘The Journey Towards Abstraction’, looks at aspects of paintings that led artists towards a new way of painting in the 20th century.

These include early cave painting, Giotto, John Constable, Van Gogh, Ben Nicholson, Sonia Delauney, Mark Rothko and Brid-

get Riley.

Tickets for the talk are £10 with proceeds going to Uplyme Church’s chosen charities Tearfund and New Hope Uganda. Contact Sheila Stratton on 01297 445464 for details on how to book tickets.

Historic buildings consultants Angel Architecture and LF Webb architectural design are sponsoring the talk. It’s followed by two days of art of on display in the church on 24 and 25 August from 10.30am to 4.30pm.

Entry to the art show is free.

cle during the operation.

The incident delayed the usual waste collection service in the area.

Councillor Thomas commented: “We have not yet identified the source property, but have narrowed this down to a small area, where all properties will be contacted to ensure they are aware of the potential danger of disposal of such an item in this way.

“The aim is also to ensure there is no repeat of what must have been an ‘uncomfortable’ experience for all our team involved, yet one which they handled with great credit.”

Information on the correct disposal points can be found on the website https://new.devon.gov.uk/wasteandrecycling/ under the recycling centre menu.

SHOP LOCAL: SUPPORT YOUR VILLAGE SHOPS AND BUSINESSES

■ A CHEQUE for £860 was donated to The Salvation Army following a fundraising tea party, recently held at Uplyme Village Hall.

The afternoon tea was held in memory of the late Harcombe resident Sally Holland in aid of her favourite charity. It was organised by her friends Annie Kobus and Alison Ayshford-Harris, who are pictured handing over the cheque to Suzanne Johnson, support administrator of the Exeter headquarters of The Salvation Army.

OUT NOW! THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO DORSET’S MOST POPULAR RESORT

Pick up your free copy in local outlets today!

10 Friday, August 10 2018

Lifeboat Week wows the crowds from land, sea and sky

www.lyme-online.co.uk

A SOGGY start with rain and high winds turned into a sunny spectacular for Lyme Regis Lifeboat Week.

And as the week came to an end on Friday, the organisers – the Lyme Regis and Charmouth RNLI Guild – reported an early estimated total for donations in the region of £26,000.

The weather caused the postponement of the bathtub race and the swimming challenge but both were held later in the week and cancellations were few.

Chairman of the RNLI Guild Ken Lavery, said: “The week was a resounding success and a tribute to all the volunteers who gave up their time in the planning process and during the week itself.

“Once again we have had tremendous support from the public and we have received many positive comments.”

Among the many successes, drawing in huge crowds, was a display by the Army’s Red Devils parachute display team, the popular wine or water raffle, the ‘name the welly dog’ competition and the tug ‘o war across the harbour mouth which was started by celebrity guest Lord Julian Fellowes, creator of ‘Downton Abbey’, who was aboard the harbourmaster’s launch with his wife, Lady Emma.

Six hundred hot dogs were sold by the lifeboat crew at their barbecue on the harbour slipway, and a local firefighter scored the first ever hole in one at the golf challenge on the harbour’s North Wall.

As the week came to a close with a spectacular fireworks display, one of the last events – the swimming challenge from Cobb Gate to the harbour – attracted a record entry of 100 - 65 adults and 35 juniors.

FOUR PAGE PHOTO SPECIAL!

LIFEBOAT crew member Dave Holland collects for the RNLI on the beach. Right, the Army’s Red Devils impressed huge crowds with their spectacular parachute display

Photos by Francesca Evans, Richard Horobin and Seb Cope

CELEBRITY guest Lord Julian Fellowes boarded the harbmourmaster’s launch to official start the annual tug o’ war across the harbour mouth, alongside his wife Emma; the Mayor of Lyme Regis, Councillor Michaela Ellis; town crier Alan Vian; and lifeboat crew member Mark Colley. Above belly dancing on the seafront and the Red Devils and, left, RNLI volunteer Peter Hampton measures crab in the crab catching competition

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ABOVE, Uplyme Morris entertain on the seafront. Left, the lifeboat and coastguard helicopter give a rescue display in the bay and, inset, the ‘Spirit of Loch Fyne’ lifeboat

ABOVE and below, the lifeboat crew pictured during the tug o’ war. Left, Lyme Regis Football Club member Keiren White leaps into the harbour and, below left, pictured with the rest of his team, which won 2-1 against the lifeboat crew. Inset, footballer Mark Bailey receives the trophy from special guest, Lord Julian Fellowes

12 Friday, August 10 2018

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SPORTING pursuits during Lifeboat Week included a match between the lifeboat crew and Uplyme & Lyme Regis Cricket Club (pictured top) and a game against Lyme Regis Football Club (left), with Lyme Regis taking home the trophy (inset) after winning 4-1. Almost 50 runners took part in a fun run in wet weather, with the mayor presenting medals (pictured below left) and the Hole In One competition off the North Wall proved popular with all ages, with lifeboat crew member Dave Holland giving some tips to local youngster Noah Turner (below). Above, the lifeboat crew enjoy refreshments at Cellar 59 which donated proceeds from one of its craft beers to the RNLI

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LYME Regis resident Ania Driver meets members of the Red Devils team, who she completed a parachute jump with earlier this summer in aid of the Royal British Legion. Left, groom-to-be Ashley Caddy tries the Yard of Ale on his stag night

SWIMMING Challenge winners Jimmy Brett, Millie Downs, Ben Greenslade and Flo Swan, pictured with Ken Lavery, chairman of the RNLI Guild. Pictured left and below, teams in the popular Bathtub Race, which was won by Lyme Regis Sailing Club Youth Section (below left) for the second year

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Aerial displays to impress on new ‘I Love Lyme Day’

LIVE MUSIC

is back at the new look Pilot Boat!

The RAF Falcons – pictured on Lyme Regis beach during a display for Lifeboat Week in recent years – will be dropping into the town again for ‘I Love Lyme Day’

The Chantry Buoys ‘Songs in the Quay of Sea’

every Wednesday evening from 9pm throughout July and August

Look out for more music nights at The Pilot Boat The Pilot Boat has been relaunched following a nine-month project

by Palmers Brewery to rejuvenate the iconic grade II listed building back to life as a lifestyle destination pub & restaurant with roof terrace and bedrooms.

CALL IN AND SEE US

1 Bridge Street, Lyme Regis DT7 3QA 01297 443157

AERIAL displays, live music and fireworks will all feature as part of a new summer event in Lyme Regis.

I Love Lyme Day will be held on Thursday, August 16, bringing together local organisations and fun family events.

The highlight of the day will be displays from the RAF Falcons – the British military parachute display team – and the Flying Circus – a formation wing-walking team.

The programme also includes sand sports, a five-a-side football tournament on the beach, and an over 60s walking race along the seafront.

Children can take part in a pavement art competition on Marine Parade, follow a quiz trail around the seafront, and get the I Love Lyme Day logo painted on their faces.

Fundraising stalls in the Marine Parade shelters will be run by the Christmas Lights Committee, 1st Lym Valley Scouts, Lyme Regis Pantomime Society, Lyme Regis Football Club, and the Rotary Club of Lyme Regis.

The day will come to a spectacular end with live music in the shelters from the Guitars on the Beach band, and a firework display over the Cobb.

I Love Lyme Day is being held instead of Community Week, when the Red Arrows were expected to perform in Lyme Regis.

Organisers were told in March the aerobatic IN our regular series commemorating the 100th anniversaries of the deaths of all men from Lyme Regis and the surrounding area who died in the First World War, this week we remember John Henry Curtis. With thanks to Vernon Rattenbury from the Royal British Legion for the research.

JOHN HENRY CURTIS

Private, 38th Battalion, East Ontario Regiment, Canadian Infantry Service No. 177999 Born May 8 1880 in Lyme Regis and died August 8 1918 in Seaford, East Sussex A butcher by trade, John Curtis enlisted at St John, Quebec, Canada on November 25 1915 giving his address as Sawyerville, Quebec.

He joined the 87th Battalion, (Canadian Grenadier Guards), Canadian Expeditionary Force, there on November 29 1915.

The 87th Battalion embarked from Halifax on April 25 1916 aboard SS Empress of Britain, disembarking in England on May 5 1916.

He then joined the 38th Battalion, Canadian Expeditionary Force, in England on July 14 1916.

display team could not come to Lyme Regis because the date they applied for – August 16 – had been allocated for the Arrows’ engineering works.

It is hoped I Love Lyme Day - with organisation led by Lyme Regis Town Council with support from LymeOnline - will appeal to local residents, as well as attract visitors to Lyme Regis.

Councillor Cheryl Reynolds, chairman of the town council’s Tourism, Community and Publicity Committee, said: “It was a great disappointment to find out the Red Arrows would not be coming to Lyme Regis, so instead, we’ve tried to come up with a programme of fun family events.

“I Love Lyme Day is aimed at both residents and visitors, and is intended to benefit local businesses and the local organisations taking part.

“We hope it will be a real community event, when we can all come together and take part in some fun events to remind us all why we love Lyme Regis.”

Most of the events will be free and prizes can be won on many of the activities.

The final programme of events is being finalised and timings of events will be released in the coming weeks.

Already confirmed are the RAF Falcons display at 4pm, and the fireworks at 10pm.

WE WILL REMEMBER THEM The battalion sailed for France, arriving in Le Havre on August 13 1916 where they took part in the Battle of the Somme, July 1November 18 1916, and the Battle of Ancre, November 13-19 1916.

John was wounded on February 8 1917 and evacuated back to England on February 10 1917. After recovering, he later served with reserve units.

He was sent to the 10th Canadian Stationary Hospital (Ravenscroft Military Hospital) in Seaford, East Sussex, and died there of illness.

Son of Joseph and Mary Curtis of Church Cliff, Lyme Regis, he is buried in Seaford Cemetery, East Sussex, plot A2987.

He is commemorated on the Lyme Regis war memorials in the parish church and in the town, and also commemorated on the Sawyerville War Memorial, Quebec, Canada and in the Canadian First World War Book of Remembrance, page 393.

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Spend the day in Lyme Regis and see the fabulous....

Friday, August 10 2018 15

FLYING CIRCUS Wing-Walker Biplanes at 12.30 pm

Thursday, August 16th and the RAF’s fantastic Free-Fall Parachute Team

THE FALCONS at 4 pm

Fireworks over The Cobb at 10pm 11am-12pm Cricket - on the beach 12pm-1pm Pavement art - Marine Parade 12.30pm The Flying Circus formation wing-walking team - over the bay 3-5pm Prosecco and strawberry tea in aid of Cancer Research UK - Lister Room Marine Parade 4pm RAF Falcons parachute drop onto the main beach 5.30pm Five-a-side football tournament - on the beach Community Day 7pm Over 60s walking race - register fun for all the family at steps on Church Cliff Walk from 10am to 10pm 8pm Live Music - Marine Parade Shelters Organised and All day Quiz trail promoted by Lyme All day Stalls by local organisations Regis Town Council Marine Parade Shelters supported by All day Face painting LymeOnline 10pm Fireworks - over The Cobb

I l ve Lyme

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MUSIC | THEATRE | WHAT’S ON | COMPETITIONS

Top names head to Lyme for folk weekend LYME Folk Weekend is just around the corner and this year one of the most talked about bands on the current scene will make Saturday night at the Marine Theatre a night to remember.

All the way from Wigan, and fresh from an exhaustive tour of Britain’s summer festivals, come Merry Hell (pictured), one of the most exciting live folk bands to have emerged in recent years.

Winners of both the Best Band and Best Live Band at the 2018 Folking.com awards, this brilliant seven-piece outfit have been blazing a trail in the north of England with their high-energy, foot-stomping folk-rock, and are making a rare visit to the South West especially for Lyme Folk Weekend.

It is an evening not be missed, particularly as Merry Hell will be supported by Ranagri, the superb four-piece band who stole the show at Lyme Folk Revisited in April.

The festival headline shows kick off on Friday August 31, with a unique opportunity to see four of the UK's most exciting, young folk and roots acts on stage together.

The show is curated by multi-award winning duo Ninebarrow, who will perform along with three of their own favourite acts - the brilliant

Dorset trio Kadia, virtuoso guitarist Will McNicol, and superb a capella group The Teacups.

Bringing down the curtain on Sunday, September 2 will be another unique concert, this time from one of the country’s biggest names - Show of Hands.

Steve Knightley and Phil Beer began their remarkable musical journey 25 years ago here in West Dorset. Their first CD was recorded live in Bridport at The Bull Hotel and Steve has written a host of songs about the people, stories and landscape of this area. This will be a rare opportunity to hear the duo revisit these songs at the wonderful Marine Theatre, in a unique coastal setting overlooking Lyme Bay. As usual, the Marine Theatre shows will also feature some amazing support acts, many of whom will be known to Lyme Folk regulars from earlier festivals and the special Revisited concerts, including Saskia Griffiths-Moore, Toby Noble, Steve Dagleish and Ranagri.

Tickets for the Marine Theatre shows are on sale now at www.lymefolk.com or from Lyme Regis Tourist Information on 01297 442138.

LYME RE REGIS, GISS, PUT YO YOUURR

Join us for food, craft beer and cocktails.

Music kicks offf around 8.30pm

Marine Parade, Lyme Regi g s, Dorset, DT7 3JH Follow us on social media @swimlyme | 01297 442668 | info@weswim.co.uk

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MUSIC | THEATRE | WHAT’S ON | COMPETITIONS

Abba fever takes over Lyme! What’s on...

WITH news of a possible reunion and the release of the second ‘Mamma Mia!’ film, there couldn’t be a better time to celebrate the 1970s pop group Abba.

With six sell-out tours of Sweden under their belt, Abba Forever are known as the world’s most authentic celebration of the superstars. They play at the Marine Theatre in Lyme Regis on Saturday, August 18.

From ‘Super Trouper’ to ‘Dancing Queen’, expect all the hits from this acclaimed live band. The Abba sound is replicated with incredible attention to detail by a six-piece band featuring electric and acoustic guitars, keyboards and piano, drums and bass guitar. Two outstanding female singers complete the line-up, adding glitz and glamour to a well-polished and gently humorous show.

The wonderful lyrics penned by Björn Ulvaeus and Benny Andersson are sung in harmony by the six performers on stage.

Sunday, July 29 - Friday, August 31

The Beach Team Cobb Beach The Beach Team return to Lyme Regis beach for fun, games and Bible stories, 11.15am Monday to Friday and at 2.30pm Sunday to Friday, plus family fun nights at 7.30pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

Friday, August 10

Dynamic choreography, stunning visuals and an all live performance ensures that the ABBA Forever show tells the band’s story in this two-hour spectacular.

Tickets cost £21 in advance or £24 on the door with a 10% discount for Theatre Friends.

Doors open at 6.30pm for a 7.30pm start.

To book, call 01297 442138 or visit www.marinetheatre.com

This month at the Marine Catch up with Lyme’s Little Theatre by the Sea

WHEN I was told by a performer I was showing to his dressing room that I looked like the teacher from the musical hit ‘School of Rock’, despite what he said, never having watched this cult programme, I wasn’t sure whether or not to take it as a compliment.

After allaying my fears that it was not Jack Black but Joan Cusack I had been compared with, I felt one step closer to being that cool ‘rock chick’ I’ve always wanted to be.

Not that it’s been in the least cool these past few weeks, we’ve pretty much had wall-towall sunshine every day. Not that I’m complaining, oh no siree Bob! I know the gardeners are fretting and dog owners should beware the hot surface along Gun Cliff Walk, but I love the fact I can wander down to the sea after work and enjoy a cooling swim.

The ladies from the Tourist Information Centre have turned it into a weekly pilgrimage, I’m hopeful it will turn into one of their famous prosecco parties before long.

Talking of the surf, I can’t wait for this Saturday when we welcome back the Beach Boyz Tribute Band with their ‘The Beach Boys Story’. They’re a great bunch and their performance is a lot of fun so I’m thinking I might don my beach-wear for it, although I don’t have a surf board – maybe my son’s old body-board will do.

I went to see that great singalong feel-good film ‘Mamma Mia Here We Go Again’, which has put me in the mood for our Abba night on Saturday, August 18. I’m just wondering where I can get a pair of dungarees and some kinky boots.

When Gabby and I went over to Dorchester recently for a meeting, we arrived with time to spare so went to Coffee#1 (not as good as

Lyme’s Aroma I might add). I was disappointed to find their facilities consisted of the one unisex loo. I’m so glad we didn’t pursue that idea for our loo refurbishment which is close to being finished now. I’m sorry but I can’t be doing with that; loo seat up, splashes everywhere, loo roll on the

floor, etc.

Did you know we now have a defibrillator unit here at the Marine? We are the only place at this end of Lyme to have one so it’s pretty important. Virgil Turner, local firefighter cum window cleaner, dropped in to update us on the install.

I was minded of that TV trash ‘Love Island’ when the men had to dress up as firemen to rescue the women, when marketing accused Gabby and me of acting like school girls with a men-in-uniform crush. Virgil wasn’t in uniform and, anyway, nothing less than the Royal Marines for me. But Virgil has very kindly agreed to run a full fire drill here at the Marine.

Our poor old bunting has taken a bit of a thrashing. Our techy and all round good egg Pete reinforced it with rope but hadn’t reckoned on the flags themselves being ripped to shreds as the wind and rain did their worst on that one day of torrential rainfall. Sadly Theatre Square is now bunting-free which is a pity. I’m hoping we may be able to source something more resilient.

Anyway, this rock chic is off to scour the charity shops for some bell-bottoms, a feather boa and kinky boots, just hope I find something and I won’t meet my ‘Waterloo’.

Sophia Moseley,

Theatre Manager

Blowin’ In The Wind Marine Theatre, 6.30pm Andante Live combine the vocal harmonies of Vee Sweeney and Mark Rowson with 16 instruments, taking you back to the era of peace, protest & love with new arrangements of the classic songs of Bob Dylan, Joni Mitchell, and Joan Baez. Tickets £10 in advance or £12.50 on the door - call 01297 442138 or visit www.marinetheatre.com

Saturday, August 11

Children Love Disco Marine Theatre, 1.30pm A daytime party for parents and their children (0-10 years) with DJ Shoei playing the best floorfillers from the 70s to the present day, alongside some favourites for the little ones, plus face-painting, healthy snacks and art activities. Tickets £3.

The Story of The Beach Boys Marine Theatre, 7pm The leading UK’s leading celebration of the sixties superstars. Tickets £17 in advance or £19.50 on the door - call 01297 442138 or visit www.marinetheatre.com Live Music Night @ The Nag’s Head Nag’s Head, 9pm Live music every Saturday night at the Nag’s Head, this week with covers band Best Kept Secret.

Sunday, August 12

The Beach Team Family Service Bethany Chapel, 4pm Family services at Bethany Chapel in Coombe Street, Lyme Regis, with the team from United Beach Missions who are staying over the summer.

Film Screening: ‘On Chesil Beach’ Marine Theatre, 6.30pm Set in Dorset and adapted by Ian McEwan from his bestselling novel, the drama centres on a young couple from contrasting backgrounds in the summer of 1962. Tickets £4 in advance or £6 on the door call 01297 442138 or visit www.marinetheatre.com Lyme Regis Sequence Dancing Club Woodmead Halls, 8pm Lyme Regis Sequence Dancing Club meets every Sunday at 7.45pm for an 8pm start. The friendly, welcoming group enjoys popular sequence dances and visitors are welcome.

Tuesday, August 14

Macmillan Cancer Support Drop-In Jubilee Pavilion, 10am-4.30pm Macmillan Cancer Support’s mobile information team, in conjunction with The Living Tree, will be offering information, support and advice on cancer. No appointment necessary – just pop in for a chat!

Wednesday, August 15

Meet & Remember Lyme Regis Football Club, 2pm Memory Café to provide a supportive, friendly environment for those experiencing memory loss or who have recently been diagnosed with dementia and friends/relatives/carers who support them. Held on the third Wednesday of every month, organised by LymeForward.

Thursday, August 16

I Love Lyme Day Marine Parade, all day An all day community event featuring displays by the RAF Falcons and Flying Circus wing walkers, plus children’s activities, fundrasiers for local organisations and live music. See pages 14 & 15 for details.

Lyme Regis Community Bingo Woodmead Halls, 8pm Bingo night every Thursday at the Woodmead Halls, raising funds for local organisations which are members of Lyme Regis Community Bingo Association.

Friday, August 17 & Saturday, August 18

Clay Ammonite Workshop Lyme Regis Museum, 10am-3pm both days This workshop is brought to you by Debbie Clarke of Creative Clay for All. Using air drying clay, Debbie will show you all you need to know to make a clay Ammonite to take home and treasure. This drop-in session is a free event with normal museum admis-

Send your diary dates to francesca@lyme-online.co.uk www.lyme-online.co.uk/events

sion.

Saturday, August 18

Abba Forever Marine Theatre, 6.30pm With six sell-out tours of Sweden under their belt, Abba Forever are known as the world’s most authentic celebration of the superstars. Tickets cost £21 in advance or £24 on the door - call 01297 442138 or visit www.marinetheatre.com

Sunday, August 19

The Sunday Sessions Marine Theatre, 3pm A post-roast music session in overlooking the Cobb, hosted by Street & Matthews, an acoustic duo who are one half of popular local band DeltaTango7. Free entry, please note this event is upstairs and seating is limited.

The Beach Team Family Service Bethany Chapel, 4pm Family services at Bethany Chapel in Coombe Street, Lyme Regis, with the team from United Beach Missions who are staying over the summer.

Lyme Regis Sequence Dancing Club Woodmead Halls, 8pm Lyme Regis Sequence Dancing Club meets every Sunday at 7.45pm for an 8pm start. The friendly, welcoming group enjoys popular sequence dances and visitors are welcome.

Tuesday, August 21

Paint a Dinosaur & Children’s Crafts Lyme Regis Museum, 10am-3pm Fun crafts for children of all ages – come and paint a model dinosaur to take home with you, or join in with the other craft activities on offer. This is a fundraising event run by the Friends of Lyme Regis Museum, and there is a small charge of £2 to paint a dinosaur, and £1 for craft activities, plus normal museum admission applies.

Wednesday, August 22

Children’s Cricket Course King George V Playing Field, Uplyme, 12pm Summer cricket courses for children run by Sporting Chance, in aid of Uplyme & Lyme Regis Cricket Club’s fundraising appeal. Children will receive training in all aspects of the game, including fielding, batting, bowling and will play mini matches and competitions for prizes. For details email mark@sportingchance-sw.co.uk

Thursday, August 23

Amadeus Animation Workshop Lyme Regis Museum, 10am-3pm Join animator Matthew Dean and help to create a fabulous animation based on local children’s book ‘Amadeus and the Sea Dragon’ – the adventures of an ammonite! Matthew has been teaching animation and film-making for 14 years, and these workshops are sure to be creative and fun. This drop-in session is a free with normal museum admission fees.

Lyme Regis Community Bingo Woodmead Halls, 8pm Bingo night every Thursday at the Woodmead Halls, raising funds for local organisations which are members of Lyme Regis Community Bingo Association.

Saturday, August 25

Bethany Chapel Coffee Morning Bethany Chapel, 10.30am Refreshments and cakes raising funds for the air ambulance and lifeboat. Free entry.

Lyme Regis Sausage & Cider Festival Lyme Regis Football Club, 2pm A selection of locally-made ciders and sausages on offer, plus a programme of live music with headliners DeltaTango7. There will also be a full bar, Pimm’s & Prosecco tent, face painting and other attractions.

Free entry.

Lyme Regis Comedy Club Marine Theatre, 7pm An evening of comedy led by Dave Johns, lead actor from ‘I Daniel Blake’, who is also a celebrated comic.

Bridport comedian Tom Glover hosts and there’s support from Dan Thomas and Karen Bayley. Tickets £8 in advance or £10 on the door - call 01297 442138 or visit www.marinetheatre.com

LYME REGIS REGATTA & CARNIVAL WEEK CONTINUES UNTIL SUNDAY, AUGUST 12 - BUY THE OFFICIAL PROGRAMME FROM LOCAL OUTLETS FOR EVENT DETAILS!

18 Friday, August 10 2018

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Local man arrested for attempted break-in A LOCAL man was arrested on suspicion of burglary after an attempted break-in in Woodmead Road, Lyme Regis.

Police were called to the scene at 8.47am on Friday, July 27 after a neighbouring resident reported a man was trying to break into a house in Woodmead Road using a drill.

An officer attended and a 35-year-old local man was arrested on suspicion of burglary. He is currently assisting police with enquiries.

A police spokesperson said: “We would like to thank the member of public who contacted us and would always urge local residents to report any suspicious activity they witness to police.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police via the website www.dorset.police.uk, email 101@dorset.pnn.police.uk or by call 101. If it is believed a crime is in progress dial 999.

Tractor destroyed in football club shed fire A RIDE-ON mower used for cutting grass at the Davey Fort football pitch in Charmouth Road, Lyme Regis, was destroyed by fire on Tuesday.

It is believed the tractor combusted having overheated after being locked in its shed, after groundsman Billy White had cut the field in preparation for the first game of the season next weekend.

This is the fourth fire suffered at the football club over the last two decades, with a previous tractor having also been destroyed.

Send your stories to edit@lyme-online.co.uk or call 01297 442781

Lyme mourns loss of direct descendant of Jane Austen LYME Regis is mourning the death of Diana Shervington, aged 99, a popular character in the town known as a direct descendant of author Jane Austen.

Born in Ireland in 1919, she moved as a baby to the Isle of Man and later to Chawton in Hampshire.

Her grandmothers, Louisa and Elizabeth, were sisters, and granddaughters of Edward, Jane Austen’s brother. At age 15, Diana inherited a collection of Jane’s personal items, thus starting a life-long interest in the life and work of the famed author.

Diana was educated locally before studying at St Mary’s, Calne, where she excelled in the arts and music in particular.

She played piano and cello and used the music books that Jane Austen had written out by hand.

During the Second World War, Diana joined the Women’s Auxilary Air Force (WAAF). Her sister Felicity flew planes during the war as an Air Transport Pilot but their mother wouldn’t allow Diana to do the same.

Her first posting in the WAAF was to London for an intelligence job and she wasn’t allowed to tell anyone where it was or what she was doing.

Diana was in charge of the telephone exchange which Churchill, Roosevelt and Stalin used for their discussions, and she later analysed aerial reconnaissance photos from the French coast, looking for German submarines and submarine pens, and V2 rocket launching sites.

Diana remained in London during the whole of the Blitz, often having to walk to work through bomb-shattered streets because there was no transport.

Lyme Regis Branch Don’t miss our forthcoming events:

Thursday August 16th 3.30-5.30pm STRAWBERRIES AND PROSECCO in the Lister Room while watching

THE RAF FALCONS FREEFALL PARACHUTE Part of I LOVE LYME DAY TEAM Tickets £10 Phone 07796 951991 to book August 25th The Big Cream Tea £7

Lister Room 3-5pm Phone 07796 951991 to book

September 21st Soup and Sweet Lunch at the Woodmead Halls12 noon to 2pm All welcome

October 26th Coffee Morning and Cake Stall Baptist Church Hall, Silver Street

November 3rd Bonfire Curry Night

Lister Room - Watch the fireworks while enjoying a delicious curry Phone 07796 951991 to book

November 30th Christmas Bingo at the Woodmead Halls - All welcome

Having been given time off to look after her sick mother, she volunteered in a canteen for servicemen at the local camp. One day at the camp, the air raid siren went off and Diana was flung into a trench by a sergeant who jumped in on top of her as a German aircraft opened fire, killing three men and injuring many more.

The sergeant’s name was Rupert and later became Diana’s husband. They were married at St Mary’s, Paddington, in February 1941.

Rupert spent most of the war in Burma and India while Diana remained at home raising their three children.

They lived in Medstead and, after the war, Rupert began a career with the railways, working his way up to become the chief operating manager at Waterloo, later being in charge of all services to Scotland at Kings Cross.

Diana and Rupert shared a love of art, with Rupert taking up art classes in London and Diana gaining a degree in ceramics from an art school in St Alban’s.

After Rupert took early retirement, he studied art full-time in London for four years before the family eventually moved to Lyme Regis in 1986 - the town where Jane Austen had visited in the 1800s and where part of her famous novel ‘Persuasion’ was based.

Rupert taught art locally for 15 years while Jane continued her pottery work and started lecturing for the Jane Austen Society - her delightfully colourful and eccentric nature in-

creasingly sought out by ‘Janites’ from around the world, eager to meet the closest descendant of the Austen family. Her most treasured items from her collection of Jane’s personal items were donated to Lyme Regis Museum and are still on display in the literary gallery.

Rupert died in 2003 and Diana Shervington is survived by their son and two daughters.

Councillors give backing to Mary Anning statue TOWN councillors have given their initial support for a statue of famous fossil hunter Mary Anning to be erected in Lyme Regis.

Mary Anning, who was born and lived in Lyme Regis on the site where the town’s museum now stands, had a major impact on the world of science, as her discoveries – including the first complete ichthyosaur - were some of the most significant geological finds of all time. They provided evidence that was central to the development of new ideas about the history of the Earth.

However, outside of the museum, there is no formal recognition of her connection with Lyme Regis, with her gravestone at St Michael’s Parish Church acting as the only memorial to her.

The suggestion of erecting a statue of Mary Anning was recently raised on social media, winning the support of several residents.

Speaking at last week’s Tourism, Community & Publicity Committee, chairman Cheryl Reynolds said she had also been approached by businesswoman Anya Pearson, from Dorchester, who was interested in getting a statue of Mary Anning erected.

Ms Pearson has connections with the organisation invisiblewomen.org.uk, which aims to recognise important female historical figures and has recently erected a statue of a suffragette in Parliament Square, London.

Councillor Reynolds said she believed that some funding for the statue may be forthcoming from invisiblewomen.org.uk and that Ms Pearson knew an “eminent sculptress” who may be willing to do the work for free.

Referring to the statue of Admiral Sir George Somers – a former Mayor of Lyme Regis who founded Bermuda after being shipwrecked off the islands in 1609 – which was erected in Langmoor Gardens two years ago, Councillor Reynolds commented: “We haven’t got a

statue of Mary Anning, we have one of what’s his name in the gardens, who wrecked all his boats.”

Councillors gave their full backing to the proposal, and Councillor Reynolds will continue discussions to take the project forward.

Proposed locations for the statue have not yet been discussed.

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Friday, August 10 2018 19

BEHIND THE SCENES AT PECO’S BUSTLING FACTORY IN BEER

Innovative PECO going ‘full steam ahead’ into the future FRANCESCA EVANS

francesca@lyme-online.co.uk

PECO chairman Michael Pritchard, son of the company’s founder Sydney Pritchard, pictured in the factory Photos by RICHARD AUSTIN

INNOVATION and investment have always been at the forefront of PECO’s success story.

From the clever ideas of model train enthusiast and PECO founder Sydney Pritchard, was born a company which, 71 years later, can proudly call itself the world’s leading manufacturer of model railway track.

Flying the flag for British manufacturing, PECO stuck to its guns while other companies moved their factories abroad to save on labour costs. The company is now the only major manufacturer of model railways still producing in the UK and has remained in East Devon since its inception in 1946.

While other companies are now realising the benefits of bringing business back to Britain, PECO already has a well-established workforce at its long-term home in Beer.

In fact, while other companies have been focussed on moving their manufacturing abroad, PECO has developed trading relationships across the world and now exports its products to 34 countries, its biggest markets being in America and Australia while others include China, Taiwan, Thailand and Japan.

Managing director Ben Arnold is the third generation of the Pritchard family to take the helm at PECO, following on from his uncle Michael Pritchard, who is now the company’s chairman.

Ben is keen to further develop relationships overseas to ensure the business continues to thrive in the future.

“Model railways is a hobby that’s well ingrained in the USA and Australia, but we're interested in growing our market in countries such as India and South America,” he commented.

“That’s where we have a focus and some challenges to overcome.”

Back in Beer, one of the main challenges for the company is space and PECO is always trying to ensure it makes the best use of its site by making its production processes as efficient as possible, and it seems to be working well, with more than 1,000 products in its catalogue and something new developed each month.

The bustling factory is equipped with the latest technology to keep up with PECO’s high quality standards and cutting edge ideas. Everything is done on site; from the first idea for a new product to seeing it made on the factory floor.

Mr Arnold commented: “Product development is a key part of what we do; coming up with new ideas and turning them into something that can be made efficiently and successfully. Sometimes that involves investing in new machinery, so we are also always developing new processes as well as products.

“We are truly innovative, as a lot of our ideas end up in production. We’re aways striving for innovation and high quality.”

Despite its forward-thinking, the company uses a more traditional touch to look after its 130 staff; a mini bus to pick up workers from the local area, hearty meals served in the staff canteen and a gift for everyone at Christmas.

This is no faceless corporation; staff are encouraged to talk to the directors and share their ideas, and whether they feel their skills could be put to better use, as there are a variety of aspects to this family-run business which they can try their hand at. As well as the many aspects of manufacturing model railways, PECO’s site in Beer is also home to its own shop and exhibition, the popular tourist attraction Pecorama, and sees two monthly magazines published.

The publishing side of the business first started in 1951 when Sydney Pritchard bought ‘The Railway Modeller’ magazine for £100 from Ian Allen Publishing. Now simply named ‘Railway Modeller’, it has expanded in size and has a monthly distribution of 35,000, making it the UK’s number one model railway magazine. The company added a second title, ‘Continental Modeller’, in 1979, regarded as essential reading for every enthusiast who models the different railways of the world.

Even in the publishing side of things, PECO is keen to keep up with modern advancements.

Digital editions of the titles are now available to read online and there are plans for a new website and a digital archive.

So while visitors can take a step back in time and enjoy a steam train ride at Pecorama, behind the scenes at PECO it’s quite a different story – where innovative thinking and the latest technology is helping this company make strides into the future.

A scene from PECO’s exhibition hall, showing its products which are finished to the highest specifications

20 Friday, August 10 2018

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Regatta & Carnival Week events light up Lyme Photos by Francesca Evans, Richard Austin and courtesy of Lyme Regis Regatta & Carnival, Lyme Regis Sailing Club and Lyme Splash LYME Regis Regatta & Carnival Week has got off to successful start with good attendance at many of the seaside events.

A packed programme of family fun, marking Regatta & Carnival’s 70th anniversary, got underway on Saturday and will continue this weekend.

The opening weekend included a successful sailing regatta organised by Lyme Regis Sailing Club, as well as the popular Walk of Light which saw hundreds carry flaming torches through the seafront gardens and onto the beach, led by the Mayor of Lyme Regis, Councillor Michaela Ellis, her consort Alan Ellis and town crier Alan Vian.

Other highlights have included Candles

Down The River - a poignant event to commemorate 100 years since the end of the First World War - and the welcome return of the open-air cinema on Tuesday night, when the sloped banks of Lister Gardens were packed for a screening of the original ‘Jurassic Park’ movie.

Children have been kept busy throughout the week, with events such as pavement art, sand sports, egg catching and a teddy bear’s picnic, while music has also filled the streets with performances by Tano Taiko Drummers, Uplyme Gospel Choir and the Rock Choir.

Saturday, August 11 will see the annual Grand Carnival Procession make its way down Broad Street and along the seafront from 8pm, and a duck race will be held on Sunday, August 12 from Windsor Terrace at 12noon.

PICTURED top left, hundreds in the Walk of Light make their way through Lister Gardens. Above and left, children take part in the pavement competition and, below, play games at the teddy bear’s picnic

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Friday, August 10 2018 21

THE Mayor of Lyme Regis, Councillor Michaela Ellis, her consort Alan Ellis (right) and town crier Alan Vian lead the Walk of Light through Langmoor Gardens

LYME Regis Sailing Club hosted its 97th annual regatta as part of opening weekend events for Lyme Regis Regatta & Carnival Committee. Races were held in bright sunshine and a sparkling sea, with presentations held afterwards in the sailing clubhouse on Marine Parade. Commodore Jerry Rook thanked the race teams and club, saying that he always enjoyed Lyme, its warm welcome and great sailing waters. Alan Vian and Paul Oatley from Lyme Regis Regatta & Carnival Committee also attended the presentations, where they received a donation from Mr Rook. Pictured clockwise from top left - Alan Vian and Paul Oatley receive a donation from commodore Jerry Rook; Commodore Jerry Rook with Champion of the Day and winner of Medium Handicap class, Andrew Snell; Mike Moore and Andrew Willoughby, winners of Cruiser class at the presentation; and Mike and Jane Calvert win the Fast Handicap Class. For full sailing regatta report and results, see page 31.

22 Friday, August 10 2018

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TEAMS from all over the UK competed in the second Lyme Splash water polo championship as part of Regatta & Carnival Week LYME Splash hosted its second water polo championship as part of Regatta & Carnival Week on Sunday.

This year, the championship brought 12 teams, totalling more than 130 players and supporters from all over the UK, to play 23 games in Victoria Pool, off the Cobb.

The floating pontoons created the pitch and spectators cheered from the Cobb and beach. The Cobb Centre acted as a headquarters for players, where hot drinks and Moores biscuits kept them refreshed between matches.

Swim England SW Region Water Polo Association and Mike Coles provided a team of referees, while Fred Fowler and Bridport Barracudas lent equipment and set it up.

After competing in some exciting and occasionally grueling games the winners in the men’s category were Frome and runners-up Weymouth & Portland. In the ladies category, the Welsh Warriors took first place with Hampshire in second and, in the mixed category, Yeovil Spartans were first and the Lyme Luggers came in second.

Members of the winning teams were presented with medals, and both they and the runners up received a metal refillable water bottle, while Baboo Gelato offered all participants a discounted ice cream.

Annie Hanbury, founder of Baboo Gelato, commented: “We’re delighted to be sponsoring the championship for the second year running and watching it grow into such a

prestigious event.

“The prize of a water bottle is part of our commitment to reduce single use plastic and share our support of Plastic Free Lyme Regis.

Karen Durham-Diggins, chairman of Lyme Splash, said: “It was tremendous to see so many players of all ages enjoying themselves with a huge amount of support from their friends and family as well as locals and tourists.

“As ever our team of local volunteers made the day such a success. Not only is this event becoming a firm favourite in Lyme Regis Regatta & Carnival Week, but also in the water polo community, where they rarely get to play in the sea.

“There are now plans being put in place to form a Lyme Regis water polo team and we hope to be able announce more information shortly.”

Organisers would like to thank the local councils and harbourmaster Grahame Foreshaw and his team for allowing the championship to take place.

The next Lyme Splash event is the Lyme Regis to Charmouth 3.15k sea swim on Sunday, September 2 from 10.30am. Places are already booked up but everyone is welcome to attend and cheer on the swimmers.

THE annual family dog show was one of the opening events of this year’s Regatta & Carnival Committee. Left, children compete in the lego challenge. Far left, the teddy bear’s picnic and, below, the poignant Candles Down the River

Friday, August 10 2018 23

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MEMBERS of Lyme Regis Taekwondo Club carried out a display on the seafront and, below, the Tano Taiko Drummers entertain

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FLASHBACKS with Richard Austin

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Tales from behind the lens of our award-winning photographer

WHEN our armed forces go off to war via sea, boat or by air, it is a tough time for the families left behind. And so it was for the Sea Harriers and their Royal Navy pilots, most of which were stationed at the Fleet Air Arm in Yeovilton.

The Gulf War was very real and obviously life threatening, and the Sea Harriers were being prepared for the conflict, loaded with all the latest hi-tec systems with final checks and inspections being made on the runway.

The press were invited to see them off at first light. We all turned up at the designated time of 5am when it was it was -5 degrees and pitch black.

Standing around in that temperature took its toll on one reporter, who showed up wearing just a wooly jumper. He was taken ill with exposure and had to be stretchered off the air-

field.

As we were being ushered off the airfield for another photograph, the sun suddenly came out from under the clouds to give this dramatic image of a Harriers getting its final check-over before flying to join an aircraft carrier already on its way to the conflict.

The famous quote by the late BBC reporter Brian Hanrahan - “I counted them all out, and I counted them all back” could have applied to Yeovilton, as months later the heroes returned home to crowds of families with kids having a day off school to see their dads fly in. The spontaneous dash across the tarmac by the children (pictured right) had tears rolling down everyones cheeks, but always remembering those military men and women who didn’t come home.

Bank counter closure not acceptable Lyme Online letters

■ AN open letter to Lloyds Bank following the announcement that counters in the Axminster branch will be closed: I have to say how very disappointed I am that Lloyds Bank has decided to close Axminster branch, as dress it up however you will, closing the counter is effectively taking away that part of the branch that we use the most.

As an organisation, we receive cash for hire of our hall and we need coin floats for many of our fundraising activities. The inability to get the cash locally is really quite unacceptable. The restriction of depositing no more than five cheques in one transaction is also a nonsense.

Over the past few years, Lloyds Bank’s representation in West Dorset has been decimated. Starting with the closure of Beaminster branch about 15 years ago, more recently Bridport was handed to TSB and then Lyme Regis closed, the last bank in town.

We were told then that Axminster would always be available to us and now we are being asked to drive to Seaton – how long before that too disappears? Diverting many of us to that small branch, in a town few of us would choose to go to shop, will inevitably lead to even more queues. The additional time and cost of the journey is

unacceptable.

The reason you give, that people choose to do their banking differently now, had a very hollow ring to it today when, at mid-morning the queue to use the two counter positions (reduced from three not long ago), was literally out of the door.

Not that the service was without fault today when we reached the front of the queue. I overheard one local shopkeeper being told that the branch had no £1 coins available for his change. A bank with no money! As it happened, I had £1 coins to deposit so we managed an exchange. Has it come to the point where customers are expected to help each other rather than use the bank?

It is probably too late to expect the faceless decision makers to change their minds, but you should know that I believe that the impact will have an adverse effect on the bank’s reputation and do no good in the long run. Again, there are no other alternative banks in town. We will consider a move to a bank in Bridport and in the meantime tell as many people as will listen what we think. We may be only a small and insignificant account for you, but I suspect many others will share these views.

W.J. Taylor, Wootton Fitzpaine Village Hall

Closing gym facilities does not help public relations of school ■ NOT only is the Combined Cadet Force unable to continue at The Woodroffe School, but also the users, after school hours, of the sports hall and gym, which were hired out.

Dr Steward, the headmaster, is adamant, that due to safeguarding issues, this can no longer carry on.

Other schools, I understand, are finding ways to deal with the issues so that their activities may continue. Many groups are affected and about 130 users.

The U3A badminton group has been using the courts for five years and gone from

strength to strength in that time, never encountering a problem. We gain so many benefits from playing, both mentally and physically.

Trying to keep healthy and exercising is important and to take away this facility from so many users in the community does not help the public relations of the school.

Several organisations in the town are trying to promote health and wellbeing and this action seems strangely contrary to this philosophy.

Susan Gale, Lyme Regis

Friday, August 10 2018 25

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THURSDAY 23rd AUGUST WEST BAY, BRIDPORT DT6 4EG

the best of agriculture by the sea FREE shuttle BUS from Lyme Regis & Charmouth PARK & RIDE from West Road Bridport B3162 FREE PARKING ON SITE (OFF A35)

CHILDREN Go FREE!!

www.melplashshow.co.uk On the day: £16 - Advance tickets: £14 online and from local outlets Lyme Regis Tourist Information Centre - Felicity’s Farm Shop, Morcombelake

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26 Friday, August 10 2018

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Sun always shines on Catholic church fete AS usual the sun came out just in time for the annual fete at the Roman Catholic Church of St Michael & St George in Lyme Regis.

The traditional event was opened by the Mayor of Lyme Regis, Councillor Michaela Ellis, and her husband Alan, who were presented with gifts by children of the church.

Stalls included cakes, bric-a-brac, books,

toys and games for children, as well as a grand draw with a top prize of £100 and refreshments served in the old school building.

Father Anthony Cockram welcomed everyone to the fete and encouraged them to spend their money to help with repairs to the church tower.

Shuttle bus to Melplash Show A SHUTTLE bus will pick passengers up from Lyme Regis and Charmouth for the Melplash Show in Bridport on Thursday, August 23.

The shuttle bus is free for those with tickets to the show. Full details of the event and how to buy tickets are available on the website www.melplashshow.co.uk Buses will leave from Lyme Regis at the following times: 7.45am, 8.30am, 9.15am, 10am, 10.45am, 11.30am, 12.15pm, 1pm, 1.45pm, 2.30pm, 5.15pm, 4pm, 6,45pm and 5.30pm.

Buses will leave from Charmouth at the following times: 7.53am, 8.38am, 9.23am, 10.08am, 10.53am, 11.38am, 12.23pm, 1.08pm, 1.53pm, 2.38pm, 3.23pm. 4.08pm, 4.53pm and 5.38pm.

Buses will depart from the show site to return to Lyme Regis and Charmouth at the following times: 8.30am, 9.15am. 10am,

10.45am. 11.30am, 12.15pm, 1pm, 1.45pm, 2.30pm, 3.15pm, 4pm, 4.45pm, 5.30pm, 6.15pm.

There’s still time to enter LymeOnline’s competition to win a family ticket (admitting adults and an unlimited number of children up to 16 years old) to Melplash Show.

Simply answer the following question (the answer can be found on the Melplash Show website): Which equestrian display team will be appearing in the Toolstation Main Ring to mark the 100th anniversary of the end of the First World War? Send your answer to Francesca Evans at LymeOnline, Unit 5 Uplyme Business Park, Uplyme Road, Lyme Regis, Dorset DT7 3LS or email francesca@lyme-online.co.uk. Closing date for entries is Friday, August 17.

Please include your name and contact details on your entry.

Town Mill flour wins prestigious award

FLOUR made at the historic Town Mill in Lyme Regis has received a prestigious Great Taste award.

Great Taste are the world’s most coveted food awards, celebrating the very best in food and drink, and the Town Mill’s stoneground wholemeal spelt flour has received a two-star award, meaning judges dubbed it beyond delicious.

Judged by more than 500 of the most demanding palates, belonging to food critics, chefs, cooks, restaurateurs and producers, as well as a whole host of food writers and journalists, Great Taste is widely acknowledged as the most respected food accreditation scheme for artisan and speciality food

producers.

As well as a badge of honour, the unmistakeable black and gold Great Taste label is a signpost to a wonderful tasting product, which has been discovered through hours and hours of blind-tasting by hundreds of judges.

Gary Willis, chairman of the Town Mill Trust, said: “We are thrilled to have been awarded two stars by Great Taste. We only officially registered as a food producer this year, after a period of offering our flour by donation.

“We knew the artisan flour made in our restored watermill was something special – our visitors have been telling us so for years!”

THE Mayor of Lyme Regis, Councillor Michaela Ellis, pictured at the fete with husband Alan, Father Anthony Cockram and a youngster from the church who presented her with gifts

NEWS FROM CITIZENS ADVICE THE local offices of Citizens Advice have voiced their concerns about the difficulties that many people are experiencing with filling in their claims to obtain Universal Credit, the new social security system which has recently replaced six means-tested benefits and tax credits.

Citizens Advice nationally has reported that more than a third of people seeking their help with obtaining Universal Credit have a struggle to find all the information that is needed to be able to complete the form. The most common problems occurred when they were required to provide sufficient evidence of health conditions, housing issues and childcare.

In total there are 10 stages to making a Universal Credit claim and if a deadline is missed it is often necessary to start the process again.

The complexities of the system mean that around 25 per cent of the people assisted by Citizens Advice spend more than a week completing their claim.

As a result Citizens Advice has called on the Government to simplify the procedure for making claims and ensure that adequate support is always available. It has also demanded that an automatic payment is made to those who do not get paid on time.

Its chief executive, Gillian Guy, said: "While Universal Credit is working for the majority of people, our evidence shows a significant minority are struggling to navigate the system.

With people already having to wait five weeks as a matter of course for their first payment, any further delays risk jeopardising people’s financial security.

“Last year the government showed it was listening by taking important steps to improve Universal Credit. Those measures are starting to have an impact, but more needs to be done.

“Top of the government’s list should be simplifying the process and making sure adequate support is in place so that claims can be completed as quickly as possible.”

With the wait before receiving a first full Uni-

versal Credit payment the finances of claimants are often already stretched and research by Citizens Advice has revealed that when this is received late there was a higher chance of people getting into greater debt, or falling into it. Additionally they were much more likely to borrow money from a lender at high interest rates to help tide them over.

With more than 2,000 people each year contacting the local Citizens Advice offices it regularly needs to recruit more volunteers and a training course for those wanting to join will start in the middle of September.

There are still places available on this course and anyone who is interested in potentially becoming a volunteer should initially contact Rovarn Wickremasinghe, Manager, Bridport and District Citizens Advice, South Street, Bridport, DT6 3NY. His telephone number is 01308-456880 and his email is BureauManager@bridport-cab.org.uk Advice obtained from Citizens Advice will always be free, confidential and impartial and everyone is welcome to go along to any of its sessions, even if they do not have an appointment.

The regular weekly advice session in Lyme Regis is held every Wednesday from 10am to 3pm at the St Michael's Business Centre, DT7 3DB, in the centre of the town and at least until December sessions are also being held on Mondays between 10am and 12noon at the Lyme Regis Medical Centre in Uplyme Road, DT7 3LS. If these times are inconvenient anyone can instead go to the Citizens Advice offices at South Street, Bridport, DT6 3NY which holds a session every weekday between 10am and 3pm. In addition you can contact Citizens Advice by email on advice@bridport-cab.org.uk or telephone 0344 245 1291, which will get you through to the Dorset AdviceLine.

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Friday, August 10 2018 27

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Golf day raises £1,225 for Flamingo Pool GLORIOUS sunshine was the order of the day for golfers taking part in the Flamingo Pool charity event at Lyme Regis Golf Club.

A range of local businesses sponsoring the event helped to raise £1,225, after costs, for the community swimming pool in Axminster.

The winning team – Roger Seed, Neil Smith and Roddy Donaghy with 90 points – each won a £40 cash prize. Second were Jane Broom, Di Shinners and Carol Watson with 86 points, each winning a £25 cash prize.

There was an additional £300 of golfing prizes to be won and, out of the 16 teams taking part, many won prizes for the Back 9, Front 9, Nearest pin and putting.

Despite the competition and the heat, there was a friendly and fun atmosphere. Participants were offered the distraction of half way refreshments and a delicious lunch in the clubhouse.

The raffle was also a roaring success with prizes donated by Aromantique, Axminster Power Tools, Bennett Rogers Opticians, Furzeleigh Down Dairy, Harry May Fishing Trips, Le Pisani, Premier Inn and Seaton Tramway.

Sponsors for the event included Andrewshayes Caravan Park, Bridec Melamine Boards, CB Gas, Charmouth Bakery, Creative

Solutions, Kate Long (for The Project Axminster), Kent House Health Centre, Musbury Moles Eco Preschool, Not Just Travel Lets Go, Nutriri, Poppies of Lyme Bay, Reflections Hair & Beauty, Rob Perry Marine, Rotary club of Axminster, Sarah’s Salon, Scott Rowe Solicitors, The Ridgeway Inn, Tom Glover and Xylem Water Solutions.

Flamingo Pool manMANAGER Steve Buxton and supporters of the Flamingo Pool soak up the sunager Steve Buxton shine at the charity golf day in Lyme Regis said: “Well done to everyone that took part in the competition, it teenagers to exercise as part of a campaign to stop childhood obesity. was a great event. Special thanks go to Lyme “The amount raised, after expenses, from Regis Golf Club and Duncan Driver, who also this golf day equates to less than one week’s donated a golf shirt to the prizes, and to all of energy bill to run the Flamingo Pool.” our sponsors for making this day possible and The Flamingo Pool welcome supporters, dofor supporting the Flamingo Pool.

“Flamingo Pool’s fundraising efforts are to nations and sponsorship. For more informahelp with the ever-increasing costs of running tion contact 01297 35800 or visit of the pool and for a project to encourage www.flamingopool.co.uk

Jumble sale to raise funds for Scout hut

THE 1st Lym Valley Scouts will host a jumble sale to raise funds for the refurbishments of the their headquarters.

The jumble sale will be held on Saturday, September 15 at Uplyme Village Hall, with entry costing 50p.

The hall will be open at 10.30am for donations of clothing, bric-a-brac, toys and books (no electricals or large furniture). The event will also include a raffle and tea and refreshments will be on sale.

All the money raised will go towards the refurbishment of the toilets, showers and store room at the Scout hut in Uplyme, which will include the installation of a disabled toilet and shower, and baby changing facilities. For further details, call Paula on 01297 678351.

Mayor hosts beach stall for church tower fund THE Mayor of Lyme Regis, Councillor Michaela Ellis, will host a beach stall to raise funds for her chosen charity of the year - the St Michael’s Parish Church Tower Fund.

The mayor will host the event in the Marine Parade shelters on Sunday, August 19 from 10am until about 3pm. The stall will include bric-a-brac, a tombola, books, clothes and cakes.

All funds raised will go towards essential repairs of the bell tower at St Michael’s Parish Church.

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Partnership for community benefit

Support and advice for those affected by cancer THE mobile information team from Macmillan Cancer Support will visit Lyme Regis on Tuesday, August 14.

In conjunction with The Living Tree, a cancer support group in Bridport, the team will be offering information, support and advice to everyone interested.

Based in the Marine Parade shelters, they invite residents and visitors to drop in for a chat between 10am and 4.30pm.

“We would love to see you,” says team leader Simon Leaper.

Advance details will be available about the new Axminster and Lyme Cancer Support group being launched, with backing and a start-up grant from Macmillan, in September.

This will provide a much-needed local point of contact for all those affected by cancer. It will be for anyone who has cancer, or has finished treatment, or has a loved one with cancer, and who would like to access support, companionship and expertise in the Lyme Regis, Uplyme and Axminster areas.

The group is being organised by Mary Kahn with help from a team including Dr Yvonne Hodges and LymeForward. Plans include a fortnightly informal drop-in with relevant exercise classes, creative workshops, talks and more, using venues in both Lyme and Axminster.

If you would like to join this group when it begins, or feel able to contribute either financially, as a volunteer or to help with fundraising, contact info@axminsterandlymecancersupport.co.uk

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Lovely Lyme - a world away from London ON behalf of seven East London and Essex based visitors to Lyme Regis, we just had to express our gratitude and congratulations to the people and various notable establishments of your lovely town, which seems a world away from the hustle and bustle of the capital and its surrounds.

It was back in 2000 that our youth football club, Redbridge United FC, first travelled to Lyme on tour and it was such a great experience for these kids from inner-London boroughs, playing against Lyme Regis and Seaton Town youngsters, that it became an annual treat that spanned six years, until the boys reached the age of 16 in 2007.

But such is the majestic beauty of this coastal oasis that, for many years since our lads gave up playing, five of us fathers, plus my two grown-up sons, have continued to make a number of return trips, usually coinciding with Lifeboat or Carnival week when the place is buzzing.

The main purpose of our most recent sojourn – August 3-6 – was to be part of Philip Evans' 70th birthday celebrations. As well as catching up with my old publishing boss and great pal, it was also great to catch up with two other former sporting stalwarts in Martin Rowe and Richard Austin, plus firefighter John 'Stomper' Stamp – all great local characters in their own right and no doubt known to some of you reading this.

The highlight of our weekend was a delightful lunch attending by some 50-plus diners at the football club's Davey Fort ground. Wow! How the facilities there have been transformed in recent times compared to the basic, old wooden hut where a group of about 20 of

TONY McDONALD

is a sports journalist and author who first visited Lyme Regis as manager of a London youth football team in 2000. He returned to the resort again last weekend and was highly impressed with how Lyme has evolved over the past 18 years us used to sleep (I exaggerate – we barely managed 40 winks) on the floor for a whole weary weekend.

This time we spent three peaceful nights based at the perfectly located Royal Lion Hotel, within a short stroll of cafes, restaurants, pubs and the beach. What struck us was how progressively the town has evolved over the past 18 years. But for all the council laudable investment in upgrading facilities, Lyme has not lost any of its intrinsic charm or appeal to visitors who travel from far and wide for their ideal holiday.

While partaking in the local brew from the vantage point of the Harbour Inn terrace down by the Cobb, we got chatting to one elderly gent wearing a Burnley FC shirt, who explained that his family have been coming to Lyme for the past 10 years.

Eschewing the counter attractions of much more convenient seaside resorts such as Southport and Blackpool in the north-west, it speaks volumes for the historic Dorset town's enduring appeal that this Lancastrian fellow continues to travel the length of the country by train for a stroll along Marine Parade.

Our last evening meal was at the newly-refurbished Pilot Boat, which is unrecognisable from the much more basic pub/eatery we re-

There is a can do attitude in Lyme that is not all that common from up 'in the Smoke'

membered. The friendly, warm and welcoming staff we encountered here was typical of our experience at the hotel and everywhere else we visited. There is a 'can do' attitude in Lyme that is not all that common from up 'in the Smoke'.

I took the opportunity to read a copy of the print edition of LymeOnline and, given the totally inadequate, diluted 'free-sheets' shoved through our letterboxes at home these days, I was very impressed and, at the same time, wondered how such an excellent, informative publication is able to serve a town of some 3,500 residents.

Clearly, hard work and a dedication to good journalism is the key and the commitment required to deliver this fortnightly product should not be underestimated.

I was heartened, too, to read the back page lead story that Uplyme & Lyme Regis Cricket Club has received new funding to assist in its survival bid. Local men, be it would-be players or supporters who like to sup pints from the pavilion and outfield, should appreciate what they have: a lovely, little cricket ground in an idyllic setting. Don't let it die.

Back here, every spare piece of greenery seems to be swallowed up by residential developments, playing fields replaced by new homes, shops and offices. So my message to the cricketing community is: 'Use it or lose it'.

As sports addicts who enjoy the occasional punt, our one slightly negative observation of Lyme Regis is that, for a town teeming with summer holiday makers and year-round tourism, it amazingly lacks a betting shop!

Apparently, back in the day, there used to be two in the town.

Ah well, at least we had a few bob more left in our pockets when the Axminster-to-Waterloo 'rattler' pulled in to London and reintroduced us to the rat-race we managed to escape from for a few very pleasurable days.

Tony McDonald

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Friday, August 10 2018 29

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Whether you are looking for a couple of easy-going days, or maybe a longer-term holiday, the hotel and its staff will go to every possible length to ensure that your stay is one to remember.

The head chef sources only the finest and freshest local produce. Totally in tune with the seasons, he then creates dishes that are influenced by the best of British.

Every week he introduces something new to the menu that has excited his imagination and taste buds, then each month the entire choice is rethought and recreated.

The chefs use only the best 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 hotel is steeped in Lyme’s fossiling and literary history and boasts a fantastic sea view garden and lounge, tastefully decorated restaurant and public bar with extensive wine and gin list. See if you can spot the fossil in the wall!

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.

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ITEMS TO SELL?

You can advertise items for sale up to £200 free by filling in the form below or emailing francesca@lyme-online.co.uk

Please note this service is only for private sellers, not for commercial items, tradespeople or vehicles. Please include a brief description of your item, the cost and a telephone number where a buyer may contact you.

If you wish to advertise an item over £200 your advertisement will cost 10p per word, please email or phone us to arrange payment. Please also include your name and address, although this will not be published.

TOYOTA portable sewing machine RS200, single dial, 18 stitch, zig zag, overlock, darning facility, £20 - 01297 443963.

‘CHIDEOCK: Wander Through This Enchanting Village’ book, mint condition, £8 - 01297 560934 (evening).

MARTINA Cole ‘Betrayal’ hardback, dust cover, mint condition, £8 - 01297 560934 (evening).

BRITAX Eclipse car seat, suitable for children 9-18kgs, very good and very clean condition, our grandchild outgrew it, £27 - 01297 444437.

PRINT OR ONLINE ADVERTISING? Get the best of both worlds by advertising with LymeOnline!

We offer the most competitive advertising rates in the local area, and for every advert booked in our printed paper, you’ll get a FREE advert on our popular website

ITEMS FOR SALE

CONTEMPORARY DINING TABLE with six chairs, mahogany colour, good condition, length 163cm, width 86.5cm, extending an additional 30.5cm, £350 - 01297 624335, buyer collects from Lyme Regis.

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Send this form to: Items For Sale, LymeOnline, Unit 5, Uplyme Business Centre, Uplyme Road, Lyme Regis, Dorset DT7 3LS

HABITAT uplighter, matt black, 6ft tall, excellent condition, £25 - 07971 955520.

WELLBEING Elite Care Commode, chair folds, flat boxed, free - 01297 443419.

GOOD quality double mattress, unmarked, £50, buyer collects - 07771 363 810.

BREAD Maker Panasonic SD253, perfect working order, £8 - 01297 442960.

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Join the LymeOnline Supporters’ Club for just £4 a week and you’ll feature on the ‘Advertising Wall’ on our website and in our printed edition

For full details on the Supporters’ Club call us on 01297 442781 or visit our website lyme-online.co.uk

Club members will also benefit from a 10% discount on all other print and online advertising they book Support your local newspaper and boost business at the same time!

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LymeOnline Sport

email your sports reports to edit@lyme-online.co.uk

gig racing

bowls

Supervets are Lyme club’s most successful rowers

Championship side in dismal form

By Paul Moffitt

By Chris Bailey

LYME Regis Gig Club Men’s Supervet crew are continuing their good form this year.

With the exception of one very close second position in the early stages of this season’s racing calender, they have collected first placed silverware at all of the subsequent regattas in Swanage, Bridport, Cattewater, Salcombe, Rame and Brixham.

Perhaps the more notable results were at the recent Rame and Brixham events.

At Rame they managed to forge ahead in the first leg, chased only by Caradon, a club which has previously picked up the highest accolade in the sport by winning the World Championships on numerous occasions. Lyme managed to hold their nerve and stayed ahead to win by 2 seconds.

At Brixham it was a similar format with the hosts taking an early lead and Lyme chasing them to the first mark.

Through the middle section and into the final straight, Brixham held position but approaching the finish line with around 500 metres to go, Lyme maintained a strong and disciplined stroke to gradually diminish Brixham’s lead. With 100

LYME Regis Gig Club’s Supervets crew celebrate another fine performance metres to go, Lyme drew on all of their resources and forged ahead to take victory.

They have established themselves as the most successful racing crew in the club’s history, after completing last season undefeated. This bears testament to their commitment to on and off water training.

Of particular interest at the recent Brixham event was the inclusion of Lyme’s Men’s C crew - a crew assembled only days before the weekend that included two young members who had never raced before and who have only started rowing this summer – Felix Ransford and Tom Gillespie.

Coxed by Pete Mowatt, they were away from the start line and quickly established themselves as leaders before the first mark, stretching out a commanding lead after the second mark they finished around 10 boat lengths ahead of the second placed boat.

Tom and Felix are among a number of keen young members of Lyme’s newly-formed development crews who are training and competing in set crews where possible and are proving themselves to be worthy competitors.

Lyme’s Men’s Vets are also enjoying success, recently winning the Na-

tional Vets championships. A great achievement.

There also have been some very commendable results delivered by all of the ladies’ categories and also our very talented youth crews, with a second place finish at the recent junior event in Hayle.

Like the men, the ladies’ section have also now formed development crews from a number of promising young ladies, also training together to establish themselves as future contenders.

The Lyme club would like to take this opportunity to thank all of their supporters and sponsors.

K1, two minutes ahead of Mike and Jane who split the remaining K1 class in places three to eight.

Andrew sails for the Army and attends many open meetings all over the country.

At the prize giving which followed with presentations by the Commodore, Jerry Rooke, he thanked the race teams and club, saying that he always enjoyed Lyme, its warm welcome and great sailing waters.

Carnival officials Alan Vian and Paul Oatley attended to receive a donation from the Commodore.

Results Regatta Series Fast Handicap: 1 - Mike and Jane Calvert, Axe YC, Merlin Rocket; 2 - Kevin Hope and Russell Thorne, LRSC, Fireball; 3 Joe and Hannah Joyner, LRSC, RS 800; 4 - Allan and Christina Tyler, LRSC, Fireball.

Regatta Series Medium Handicap: 1 - Andrew Snell, ASA, K1; 2 - .

Michael Commander, Teign Corinthian, K1; 3 - Guy Woodhouse, LRSC , K1; 4 - Jerry Rook and Jake Stow, LRSC, Albacore.

Cruisers: 1 - Mike Moore and Andrew Willoughby, LRSC, Medina; 2 Pete Thomas with Judith Burke, Dan Burke, Shiggy Takezoe, LRSC, Bay Raider Expedition.

Championship of the Day: 1 - Andrew Snell, ASA, K1; 2. - Mike and Jane Calvert, Axe YC, Merlin Rocket; 3 - Michael Commander, Teign Corinthian, K1; 4 - Hugh Duncan, LRSC, K1; 5 - Guy Woodhouse, LRSC, K1; 6 - Tony Fastnedge, LRSC, K1.

Flat seas for annual regatta races

By Sally Holman WITH a long history stretching back 97 years, Lyme Regis Sailing Club held its annual sailing Regatta races over the weekend in bright sunshine and sparkling flat sea.

A light easterly breeze on Saturday lunchtime set officer of the day Dan Alsop a difficult task with a big wind shift as the sea breeze filled in from the opposite direction mid-way through the first series race, but with 4 classes on separate starts, course changes were not possible.

Christian Birrell with Sam Berry finished first in the Fast Handicap class and Andrew Snell in the Medium Handicap.

The second race, when the sea breeze had filled in, proved the best of the weekend and saw Andrew win his class again , but Cameron and Darrol Moss took the faster class.

From there Mike and Jane Calvert, top Merlin sailors from Axe YC who will be back for the Merlin Nationals here in August, won the remaining fast series races to take the class prize.

The Cruiser class was won by Medina

sailors Mike Moore and Andrew Willoughby, although Pete Thomas’s attractive boat just pipped them into last place in race five which favoured the faster, lighter dinghies.

Thirty-three entries for the Regatta included 12 visitors, one sailing up from Axe to take part in the traditional Championship of the Day, a handicap race open to all. Officer of the Day Simon Clark had to recall two early starters, all completed two laps.

The Championship was held in fading breezes on Sunday afternoon and won by ASA sailor Andrew Snell in his

YET another dismal showing from the Lyme Regis Bowling Club’s championship side. In a 2-8 loss away to Poole Park only Steve Chant’s rink were able to secure any points.

Lyme 2 had a fine 10-0 win against Dorchester A whilst the ladies only managed four points against Bridport despite winning on two rinks.

Chris Barber’s rink, often the most successful this season, had a nightmare afternoon going down 7-38.

Lyme played host to six rinks of men from local clubs in the annual Silver Jubilee Cup competition. The final winners were the team from Seaton comprising Roger Woolland, Don Yalley, Peter Barradell and Terry Smith. Runners-up were Sidmouth with the third spot going to Bridport.

Just one friendly against a Welsh touring side from Islwyn plus, as promised, the results from the game against Cardiff last weekend.

Results: West Dorset Men Div 1.

Lyme 52; Dorchester A 38.

N Solomon, A Nabarro, J Moseley, C Barber 18-17; R Legg, A Henson, K Hickman, W Payne 13-16[reduced to 12 as Dorchester were reduced to 3 players at the last moment]; P Edmonds, P Stephens,B Parsons, D Meylan 219.

Dorset Ladies Div 1.

Lyme 53; Bridport 65.

H Dowling, C Pomeroy, L Broom, C Barber 7-38; A Allman, A Darvill, A Rattenbury, P Weech 23-12; V Henson, N Driscoll, N Stephens, S Rowe 23-15.

Friendlies: Lyme 84; Cardiff 67.

P Ward, B Smith, B Parsons, A Weech 16-4; E Sarson, B Moon, J Moseley, G Mitchell 14-13; A Sherring, N Benson, H Dowling, P Moffitt 22-17; R Bishop, P Stephens, P Edmonds, P Weech 8-13; J Sherring, D Sarson, S Dowling, N Stephens 11-11; T Allman, D CourtenaySmith, S Pomeroy, C Barber 13-9.

Lyme 123; Islwyn Tour 101.

T Young, P Stephens, N Benson, B Rattenbury 24-11; J Moon, J Sherring, A Rattenbury, A Weech 12-14; P Ward, A Sherring, B Moon, Chas Barber 14-11; E Sarson, A Darvill, A Nabarro, P Weech 16-20; D Sarson, D Courtenay-Smith, B Driscoll, P Knight 15-17; M Knight, N Driscoll, P Edmonds, N Stephens 13-13; M Heneghan, F Sell, J Moseley, Chris Barber 29-9.

CALLING ALL LOCAL FOOTBALL CLUBS

If you would like your matches to be featured on the LymeOnline website and in our print version, email your reports to Philip Evans at philip@lyme-online.co.uk

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LymeOnline Sport

32 Friday, August 10 2018

August 10 2018

Cricket club financially safe but now facing lack of players crisis PHILIP EVANS

philip@lyme-online.co.uk UPLYME & Lyme Regis cricketers look like having succeeded in saving their club financially - but they are now facing another crisis.

The 1st X1, which plays in the Devon league D Division East, has failed to field a team in their last two fixtures and have been docked 20 points, leaving them firmly entrenched at the bottom of the table.

Uplyme now have just 78 points, 45 behind their nearest rivals , Countess Wear, and will almost certainly be relegated if they are able to fulfil the rest of their games

this season.

If first team games are cancelled, league rules say the club cannot field a 2nd X1 so their future may also be in doubt, fuelling rumours that the club will have to reduce to running just one senior side to survive.

If the 1st team call off another game they will be able to continue playing their fixtures if more players become available but they will not be awarded any points. There could also be financial penalties.

The league rules say: “Should any team be unable to fulfil a fixture where a suitable ground is available, it shall forfeit the match and be awarded 0 points, 20 points being

awarded to the opposing team.

Such team shall also have 10 points deducted from its total to date.

“If the away team is unable to give a clear 48 hours notice of their inability to fulfil the fixture, they shall pay to the home team the sum of £33 If the away team is unable to give a clear 24 hours notice of their inability to fulfil the fixture, they shall pay to the home team the sum of £50.

“If the away team cancel their participation on the day of the match, they shall pay the home team the sum of £66 and they shall be responsible for paying independent umpires, where applicable, as if the fixture had taken place.”

Last week’s shortage of players for their away match against Upottery St Mary was affected by a number of players attending the wedding of former pace bowler Ashley Caddy, who now lives in Hong Kong.

A spokesman for the club said that they were hopeful of fulfilling tomorrow’s home fixture against Exmouth 2nds X1 and completing their remaining four match of the season.

He confirmed that one option being considered was to revert to fielding just one league team next year with friendlies being played on a Sunday.

The 2nds X1 also have four remaining fixtures this season.

Lee’s charity funds tops £10,000 STRONG wind and a rare drop of rain greeted captain’s day at Lyme Regis Golf Club, but this did not deter a wonderful turnout as captain Lee Caddy, ably assisted by club pro Duncan Driver and secretary Melissa McMahon, served up a barbecue and half time drinks.

The day was about having fun and raising money for the captain’s charity – The Fortuneswell Cancer Trust at Dorchester County Hospital. With over £500 generously raised in the raffle, the total so far this year is over £10,000.

In the golf, Les Bounds was the best golfer on the day with a sparkling round – scoring 38 points with two steady halves, followed by Richard Emm, who scored a five-point birdie on 14 to just pip Julian Cox on countback, both with 37 .

Gilly Madill and Jenny Scott were the top ladies with 34 and 33 points respectively. The juniors also took part in a separate event that was hampered by the weather, and it was won by Cam Vincent with Casey Gibbons as runner up. In their putting competition, Michelle Lee won.

The ladies played their 36 hole competition in a day that was challenging with the high temperature. Melissa McMahon was the runaway winner as she carded a gross 149 in 2 rounds that were sprinkled with birdies and an altogether red hot performance. Di Harris came a blistering second with 175 while Judith Page held on to take a very worthy third place on 180.

Jane Andrews and Cyndy Mudford

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NOW IN THE DEVON & EXETER PREMIER LEAGUE Opening game of the season:

Saturday, August 18th Lyme Regis 1sts v Beer Albion

sports shorts Seasiders kick off with three local derbies LYME Regis first team will start life in the Devon & Exeter Premier Division, the highest standard in which they have played, with three local derbies.

They kick-off the new season with a home encounter against Beer Albion on Saturday, August 18th, followed by a trip down the coast to Seaton Town on Tuesday, August 21st and then a home match against fellow promotion candidates from last season, Colyton.

Lyme Regis Reserves, also promoted last season to Division Four, also start with a local derby away to Millwey Rise on Wednesday, August 22nd.

The three opening first team matches are likely to attract big crowds, both home and away. On a number of occasions last season the matches at the Davey Fort attracted more than some Western League clubs and Seaton and Beer also have a good following.

It will be a good test to see how Gerard Hitchcock’s squad deal with football in the Premier Division after encouraging pre-season results against Axminster Town and Coombe St Nicholas.

Lyme Regis Reserves fielded a strong squad in a friendly at Misterton last week, continuing their good pre-season form and winning 7-0.

Other matches before the season proper gets underway include: Saturday, August 11 – Lyme Regis Reserves v Honiton Reserves Saturday, August 11 – Lyme Regis Rovers v Honiton Town 3rds Tuesday, August 14 – Ottery St Mary v Lyme Regis 1st Thursday, August 16 – Waytown Hounds v Lyme Regis Reserves ■ The Seasiders have lost the services of new Rovers’ manager Matt Preece.

Preece was part of a three-man team elected to run the club’s 3rd X1 with players Rob Larcombe and Niall Davis but he has informed the club that he wants to play at a higher standard and has signed for Ottery St Mary, who play in Devon & Exeter Division Three.

Larcombe and Davis will continue to manage the Rovers who play in Perry Street Divison Three.

LymeOnline PICTURED are Captain Lee Caddy, and professional Duncan Driver with Lizzie Linnert top left and the juniors who took part in the captain's day event battled it out for the best nett score with Andrews taking pole position on countback in a very hard fought contest, both scoring 146, while Lizzie

Linnert put in a sterling performance to finish third, one shot behind.

In the Morning Cup Geraldine Wickes was the shining star with a

nett 65, as she accelerated her score with a glittering back 9. Jane Andrews just beat Melissa McMahon to second place on countback, both with 71.

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