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OUTSIDE SHOWS RETURN TO THE MARINE PA GE 23
Seafront security a ‘waste of money’ says councillor
The Volly’s back in business! WEST Dorset MP Chris Loder was among the patrons at The Volunteer Inn - Lyme Regis’ smallest pub - as it reopened doors for the first time since lockdown on Monday. Mr Loder (left), who has been keen to support the tourism and hospitality sector in West Dorset, is pictured behind the bar with Volunteer staff, including manager Matt Puddy (far right). See ‘Lyme Matters’ on page 6.
Mary’s letter lost
FOSSIL HUNTER’S LETTER SELLS FOR MORE THAN £100K LYME Regis lost out on bringing an historic letter by famous fossil hunter Mary Anning home this week, as it sold at auction for a staggering £100,800. An ambitious online appeal launched by the Jurassic Coast
FRANCESCA EVANS
francesca@lyme-online.co.uk
Trust and Lyme Regis Museum raised more than £21,500 in just 24 hours, but it was not enough to secure the artefact as bids soared in the last few minutes. The unpublished letter, written
by Lyme Regis’ most famous daughter, was sold by auction on the Sotheby’s website on Tuesday afternoon. It was expected to reach between £8,000 and £12,000, but eventually sold for more than eight times this amount. The Jurassic Coast Trust and
Lyme Regis Museum hoped the letter could be “brought home” and put on permanent display in the museum, which is based on the site of the former home of fossil hunter Mary Anning. An online fundraising appeal was CONTINUED ON PAGE 7
LYME Regis Town Council's unprecedented decision to employ security guards to patrol the seafront was not supported by all members, it has been revealed, with one describing it as "a waste of money". The council took the decision last month to employ security guards to patrol the seafront on a nightly basis, following increased reports of anti-social behaviour in Langmoor and Lister gardens. The guards started patrols on July 17 and will continue to patrol nightly through the main summer season, for a total cost of £10,080. REPORT, PAGE 3
‘Difficult decisions’ ahead for council
THE town council’s financial forecast has started to improve following the reopening of more facilities in Lyme Regis, but the town clerk has still warned there will be “difficult decisions” ahead.
The council had expected to see its reserves drop to £67,000 by the end of the financial year but this figure has now risen to £200,000. REPORT, PAGE 7
Another ton for Tyler
UPLYME & Lyme Regis cricketer Tyler Wellman has put himself in the club’s history books, scoring centuries for two consecutive weeks. REPORT, PAGE 32
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Published by Lyme Regis Media Limited Hyper-local website and fortnightly newspaper serving the communities of Lyme Regis, Uplyme & Charmouth. Unit 5 Uplyme Business Park, Uplyme Road, Lyme Regis, Dorset DT7 3LS www.lyme-online.co.uk edit@lyme-online.co.uk Facebook: facebook.com/LymeOnlineUK Twitter: twitter.com/LymeOnlineUK Instagram: instagram.com/lymeonline Editor: Francesca Evans francesca@lyme-online.co.uk 07810 221 420 Contributors: Philip Evans philip@lyme-online.co.uk Richard Austin edit@lyme-online.co.uk Regular Columnists: Sophia Moseley, Marine Theatre Peter Lacey, Tales of Lyme’s Past Production: Jackie Evans jackie@lyme-online.co.uk
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MP defends vote on Trade Bill, saying it was not about protecting NHS from Trump WEST Dorset MP Chris Loder has defended his decision to vote against a new Trade Bill clause, which opposition parties say would have protected the NHS during Brexit trade deals. Backed by Labour, the Green Party tabled the clause that would have created a law to protect the NHS during trade deals with other countries, to prevent medication price hikes, staff pay cuts, and patient data being sold, as well as ensuring that healthcare remains free at the point of delivery for UK patients. Mr Loder was one of 337 Conservative MPs to vote against the clause, saying that Labour’s claims that it was about protecting the NHS from US President Donald Trump were “lies and political nonsense”. The clause was rejected after a majority of Conservative MPs voted against – only 248 MPs voted in favour – with Labour saying this now leaves the NHS open to privatisation. Those who voted against the clause have faced significant criticism in light of the NHS’ vital role played in the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. Defending his decision to reject the new clause, Mr Loder said: “This amendment (new clause 17) was put forward by MPs who still cannot accept the will of the British people to leave the EU and I will not continue in the steps of those who want to stop it. “The people of the South West want Brexit done. This politicking from MPs who either don’t know where they stand, or still cannot
accept the will of the British people, now deserves to be voted down – as I indeed did and was pleased to do. “In terms of the NHS, the government has committed on numerous occasions, and in its 2019 manifesto, that the NHS is nothing to do with a trade deal. “Only last week the Prime Minister announced an additional £3billion in funding to the NHS in England, coming WEST Dorset MP Chris Loder, pictured in Lyme Regis, has defended his decision on top of the £30bil- to vote against a new clause of the Trade Bill tabled by opposition parties lion already announced for health and social care earlier this and the price it pays for drugs, is not on the year; and a public sector pay rise just table when it comes to the UK’s future trade deals.” awarded to our doctors. Labour has argued that the government’s “The government has already said the Trade Bill only applies to EU countries with whom claims that the Trade Bill only applies to EU Britain has an existing trade relationship – countries with whom Britain has an existing not the US. Claims by Labour that these trade relationship is not true, after a docuamendments were about protecting the NHS ment was produced last December by then from President Trump, are lies and political party leader Jeremy Corbyn that reportedly nonsense. “As West Dorset’s Member of Parliament, contained evidence of trade talks between the and as somebody who owes so much to the Conservative government and the US, sugNHS, I remain very clear, and so does gov- gesting the NHS was on the table for negotiernment; that our NHS, including its services ations over medication price hikes.
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Don’t lose your democratic voice! HOUSEHOLDS in the Dorset Council area should look out for a form asking them to check if their information on the electoral register is correct. The form, which is part of the annual voter registration canvass, shows who is currently registered to vote at an address. Households will start receiving forms from August 8. It will be stated on the outside of the envelope and on the form whether or not you need to respond. If there have been changes in your household, for example if you have moved house, or someone in your household has reached 16 or 17 years old in the last year, you can provide the information by visiting the website www.householdresponse.com/Dorset and log on using the security codes supplied on the letter, or complete the form and return it to the address provided. If there have been no changes to your household but you have received a form which says you must respond, then you can also use the above methods or call 0800 197 9871 and supply the security code from the letter – this service can only be used to confirm there are no changes to your information. Alternatively, you can text NOCHANGE followed by the security code on your letter to 80212. If you have added anyone to the form you should also go to www.gov.uk/register-to-vote to complete their registration. If they choose not to register online a form will be sent to them. Jonathan Mair, corporate director for Legal & Democratic services at Dorset Council, said: “It’s really important that everyone who is entitled to vote is able to do so. Please keep a look out for the letter coming to your household and let us know of any changes as soon as possible. “Being able to vote gives you the chance to have a say on who represents you. Being registered to vote also helps people who want to apply for credit. As a way to counteract fraud, the register is used by credit agencies to confirm where someone lives when they apply for credit.”
Seafront security ‘a waste of money’, says councillor LYME Regis Town Council's unprecedented decision to employ security guards to patrol the seafront was not supported by all members, it has been revealed, with one describing it as "a waste of money". The council took the decision last month to employ security guards to patrol the seafront on a nightly basis, following increased reports of anti-social behaviour in Langmoor and Lister gardens. The guards started patrols on July 17 and will continue to patrol nightly through the main summer season, for a total cost of £10,080. As the council is not holding regular meetings due to coronavirus restrictions, the decision to employ the guards was made via delegated authority by the town clerk and mayor. However, the mayor has said that all councillors were consulted, with almost all responding in support of the proposal. But during a recent virtual meeting, Councillor Michaela Ellis said she was not happy with the decision, adding that she thought it was “disgusting” to spend taxpayers’ money on what she considered police work. Dorset Police has stepped up evening patrols in Lyme Regis and utilised section 35 dispersal powers, meaning officers can move on groups of people and have power to make arrests if they return within a set period. The Mayor of Lyme Regis, Councillor Brian Larcombe MBE, said he agreed that the issue should be dealt with by police but they currently had limited resources and the security guards were employed to “bridge the gap”. He added that a lot of residents he had spoken to were in favour of the scheme, but Councillor Ellis argued that there were also a lot against it. “We should not waste our money,” she added.
FRANCESCA EVANS
francesca@lyme-online.co.uk
The mayor replied: “What else would you do? The police can’t do anymore so we had to do something.” Councillor Richard Doney also questioned the value for money of the security guards He requested that council officers supply members with before and after statistics for the numbers of complaints made, the instructions given to the security guards and a copy of their nightly logs. Councillor David Ruffle said he was concerned the issue of anti-social behaviour would not disappear after the main summer season, as most of those causing problems lived locally, and he asked what the council’s long-term plan was. Councillor Larcombe said he had been in contact with the police and Dorset’s Police and Crime Commissioner to make it clear that Lyme had been “badly served”, and he would continue to communicate with them. However, he described the current problem as “desperate”, adding that he had received numerous emails and calls of complaint in the middle of the night about the noise disruption, with some nearby residents saying they had to move to another property over the weekends just to get some sleep. Town clerk John Wright added: “It’s early days as we are only two weeks in but we have had no complaints since patrols started, and there were about five parties in the gardens every week keeping people awake before. “There were no signs of it going away and it was a significant problem. The guards have also helped with other minor issues on the seafront. “It’s not ideal and in an ideal world we would not want to spend money on this.”
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Local children’s groups invited to apply for funding CHILDREN’S groups in Lyme Regis are invited to apply for funding for a project or running costs. The Lyme Regis Pre-School Fundraising Association’s attempts to re-open a facility in the town were unsuccessful and it is now hoping to distribute the money which was raised locally to other children’s groups. The group raised £4,500 through community activities and donations to support the re-opening of a pre-school at the children’s centre in King’s Way. Applications from children’s groups which accommodate children that are four years old and under are invited to apply for funding. Eligible groups can request an application form from Cheryl Reynolds by calling 01297 443814 or 07796 074 849 or emailing cherylreynolds1947@gmail.com The deadline for applications is 5pm on Monday, August 31.
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NEWS ONLINE: Catch up with A round-up of the top stories from our website
First artists welcomed back to Town Mill gallery THE Malthouse Gallery at the Town Mill in Lyme Regis has reopened doors for its first exhibition since lockdown. Joe Webster is currently hosting his exhibition ‘Immersion’, with work showing his connection to the natural world. The exhibition will be open until August 12, after which Devon artist Richard Kaye will be exhibiting his latest collection of work from August 14 to August 26.
Sunday bus service reinstated THE ‘Jurassic Coaster’ bus which runs between Lyme Regis, Axminster and Weymouth has started running on a Sunday again. First’s X51 and X53 services have been reinstated on Sundays after being pulled during the coronavirus pandemic. The new timetable can be found at www.firstgroup.com/wessex-dorset-south-somerset/news-and-serviceupdates/coronavirus-covid19-service-information
Stay safe in the water this summer
WITH the school summer holidays now in full swing, and many families choosing a ‘staycation’ in the South West, the RNLI and HM Coastguard are urging every parent to be aware of the potential dangers when visiting the coast. The importance of keeping an eye on your family has been highlighted in recent weeks as lifeguards have carried out rescues on beaches across the South West. For safety information visit the RNLI website https://rnli.org/ and in an emergency on the coast, cliffs or tidal river, call 999 and ask for the coastguards.
Dorset’s new Deputy Chief Constable Anglers rescued from Chesil Beach DORSET Police is delighted to announce the appointment of a new Deputy Chief Constable to the force. Scott Chilton was successfully selected at the end of July following an appointment process chaired by Chief Constable James Vaughan.
TWO anglers were rescued by Lyme Regis lifeboat crew on Saturday night after they accidentally ran their boat ashore on Chesil Beach. The men, cold and wet, were stranded on the beach when the lifeboat crew arrived but were otherwise unharmed. See page 10 for the latest lifeboat shouts.
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Town Mill seeking recipes for new book THE Town Mill in Lyme Regis is seeking recipes made with its own stone-ground flour for a new book. If you have a recipe using the mill’s wheat, rye or spelt flour, it could be featured in the latest book to be released to raise funds for the historic attraction. There are four recipe categories you can enter – bread, savoury, sweet and children’s. Children’s recipes should be either edible foods or crafts made from flour. Your entry should also include 50 words about yourself and why you like the recipe, and can be sent to petrinatownmill@gmail.com by September 4 for consideration.
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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
Has lockdown changed who we are?
Campaign tells litterers Dine out in style with to clean up their act Eat Out to Help Out! LITTER Free Dorset has developed the ‘Don’t Be A Tos53r’ campaign to target residents and visitors that may choose to leave their rubbish behind this summer, as more enjoy a ‘staycation’ holiday in the South West rather than travelling abroad. See the Green Page on page 26 for more on the latest environmental campaigns.
RESIDENTS and visitors to West Dorset and East Devon will be dining out in style this month, as a number of local restaurants, pubs and cafés take part in the government’s Eat Out to Help Out scheme, offering 50 per cent off the price of meals, up to the value of £10 a head. Find a full list of local restaurants taking part at www.lymeonline.co.uk
Could you benefit from broadband voucher scheme? A GOVERNMENT scheme set up to provide a faster broadband service has helped more than 230 Dorset homes and businesses since it launched in 2019 and now Dorset Council is investing £1million so that it can reach up to 1,000 more. The £200million Gigabit Broadband Voucher Scheme has been helping to provide gigabit-capable connections for businesses and homes in the most remote locations. Visit the Dorset Council website www.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk for more details.
Lyme musician releases lockdown album AN album created during lockdown by a Lyme Regis musician has been reviewed in the prestigious ‘Electronic Sound’ magazine. Local musician Andrew Ward decided to keep himself busy during lockdown by coming up with 19 songs in just 19 days. He named the impromptu album ‘The Lockdown Sessions’ and released the music via the website Bandcamp at https://arpquadra.bandcamp.com/album/t he-lockdown-sessions The album has now been reviewed by ‘Electronic Sound’, described by Andrew as “the four-weekly Bible of what’s what in electronic and synthesizer music”. Andrew, aged 56, has been playing music since a young age but released his first EP earlier this year.
IT’S been 20 long weeks but the LymeOnline newspaper is finally back! When lockdown was first announced, shops and restaurants closed and we saw our advertising revenue drop by 90 per cent. We had no choice but to put our printed newspaper on hiatus and focus solely on our website, which we have built up to welcome a record number of visitors in recent months. There were times when we weren’t sure whether the paper would ever return, but thanks to the continued support of our readers, advertisers and a little extra help from two grant funding pots, we finally made it and are ready to bring you all the latest news in print, and support the Lyme Regis community as it gets back on its feet. One thing that everyone kept saying towards the beginning of lockdown was how we would all come out the other side as better people; we’d be more appreciative, kinder, more caring, well-rounded, socially-conscious, healthier and generally wonderful human beings. I’d like to think there’s a little truth in that but there were times when it was hard to believe. At the height of the pandemic, the boredom of lockdown and fear of the virus spreading took hold, and the dark side of social media reared its ugly head. Regular Facebookers were quick to snap at each other, especially over the increasinglytense (and increasingly-tedious, I might add) ‘residents versus visitors’ argument. Monitoring comments on the LymeOnline Facebook page became almost a full-time job in itself and it seemed the whole ‘Be Kind’ movement, sparked by the death of TV presenter Caroline Flack just a month before lockdown, had already been forgotten. It’s hard not to feel disheartened when scrolling through the constant streams of negativity but it’s also important to remember that those taking part in such debates - while they may shout the loudest - are usually in the minority. Fortunately for Lyme Regis, kindness does always seem to prevail, demonstrated by the outstanding army of volunteers who stepped forward to look after the elderly, vulnerable and those in need of support during the pandemic. This exceptional community response was initially co-ordinated via social media, which proves that Facebook really can be used for good. On a personal level, I’d like to think that lockdown has made me more grateful for my life here in Lyme Regis. As the pandemic worsened during March I obsessively watched the BBC’s 24-hour news channel and got myself into such a panic that I decided to move back into Mum and Dad’s when lockdown was eventually announced.
For the first couple of weeks, waves of anxiety and worry washed over me - a feeling I’m sure many of you shared. I missed covering all the usual spring and summertime events (this week would have been Regatta & Carnival see pages 12 & 13), and I ware scared that the normal life I had taken completely for granted would never return. But moving in with Mum and Dad calmed me down a little and I soon got myself into a new routine of working at the dining room table during the mornings and exercising in the afternoons. Fortunately, I’d had a steroid injection to treat a hip disability just a few weeks before lockdown, which left me pain-free for the first time in months and able to go on daily, long walks. I explored all the footpaths around Lyme and Uplyme that I’d never ventured along before and took delight in spotting ducklings, squirrels, rabbits, deer and herons along the way. I became so grateful that I was able to get outdoors and exercise; for our beautiful surroundings and safe, rural location; and for mine and my family’s health. I enjoyed the new regime so much that I dropped half a stone, got my fitness levels to the best they had been in years, swapped the 24 hour news for exercise and felt my anxiety slipping away. In one five-day period I walked 26 miles to raise funds for Steps Charity Worldwide, which helps children with the same hip condition I have, and I walked the eight-mile Undercliff path between Lyme and Seaton for the first time - something I never thought I’d be able to do. Eventually, a little bit of normal life that I had so craved returned. I moved back into my own flat and started working full-time with a renewed enthusiasm in our new and improved office, again feeling grateful that LymeOnline had made it through the worst of the pandemic. Of course, that made it a bit harder to keep up with the exercise routine. And then shops, pubs and restaurants reopened, friends reunited and I started eating out like there was no tomorrow, as you’ll see from my special feature on Lyme’s burgeoning foodie scene on page 22 (pretty sure I’ve gained that half a stone again, too!). So more appreciative? Definitely. Healthier? Perhaps not after all. A better person? I’m working on it... but you know what they say - old habits die hard! Francesca Evans, Editor
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A summer like no other - or is it? The car parks are full and the streets crowded
I
F it wasn’t for the masks, you would think this was like any other summer in Lyme Regis.
With the car parks full and the streets and promenade crowded with day-trippers and holidaymakers, some might think it’s heading for a record year. Alas, that is probably not the case, but the doomsday predictions of Lyme Regis Town Council that their once £1.3million reserves could be down to a meagre £67,000 by the end of the financial year look like being over pessimistic. The revised estimation now is somewhere between £200,000 and £300,000 which for most small town authorities would be a very comfortable position. This is good news for Lyme but residents should still brace themselves for a few bitter pills to swallow as the town does it best to return to normal. There are plenty of people around and
the pubs, restaurants and cafes have all made a huge effort to adhere to government social distancing rules to keep their customers and staff safe. I don’t think anyone in business is expecting the summer of 2020 to be anywhere near a record year. Precautions they have had to make to comply with the easing of lockdown is bound to have a financial bearing on the final outcome. Many are hoping that we may have an Indian summer to extend the season to make up for the losses during lockdown. But that’s in the lap of the gods. At first glance no-one would believe we are still in the midst of a pandemic which is killing dozens of people every day in this country. And there can be no doubt that many fear a spike in infections and that further more stringent measures will be introduced if this happens. Certainly the government has proved they will take immediate action in areas where the number of cases are increas-
ing. But it does not seem to have stopped people coming to Lyme for a holiday or some recreational time. We are so lucky to live in this part of the world where the number of cases and deaths have been the lowest in the UK. It’s many weeks now since there has been a death due to COVID-19 in Dorset. But the more people who crowd into Lyme, the more there is a chance of the contagion spreading. Businesses in the town are clearly doing their best to open their doors and meet all the conditions laid down by the government. Some are doing reasonable business, others have already gone to the wall or are still keeping their doors locked. Surviving through the winter months is going to be a big challenge for the traders with the hope that by next spring a vaccine may be available. Perhaps that is our only chance of Lyme getting back to normal - and a return of the good times.
Proof of Mary Anning’s world-wide reputation IT’S so disappointing that the Mary Anning letter that went under the hammer at Sotheby’s in London did not end up in its rightful home - Lyme Regis Museum. The museum did a fantastic job in launching a crowdfunding appeal in a bid to get the letter she wrote to William Buckland, her friend and collaborator, in 1829. The appeal raised a fantastic
£21,000 in just 24 hours but sadly the letter was sold to an anonymous collector for a whopping £100,800. But what this does is demonstrate that the fame of Mary Anning is worldwide. I suspect much of that £21,000 would have come from outside Lyme Regis, with donations from geologists and earth science lovers
all over the globe. There is no doubt the interest in Mary is at its peak. The film ‘Ammonite’ about her life, starring Kate Winslet, is due out next spring and there’s even talk of a Mary Anning opera in the offing. And whilst it’s disappointing the letter is not winging its way to our museum, it’s very existence provides Lyme with even more profile.
MP pops in to wish the Volly well THE last few months have been a nightmare for the smaller pubs, those intimate places where you rub shoulders and enjoy a pint or three with you best pal, stood at the bar. I imagine that Becky O’Donell would have had many sleepless nights of late trying to work out how she could open the doors of The Volunteer in Broad Street, a real locals’ pub. But she and her staff managed it on Monday when the Volly doors were thrown open for the first time in 20 weeks. And there to join in the celebration in a most modest fashion was our MP Chris Loder who is a regular visitor to Lyme these days and
often pops into the Volly for a chat to the locals. There’s a bit more of a wine bar atmosphere about the Volly as numbers of drinkers and diners have had to be restricted but they have made good use of the time they have been shut. The original wall at the back of the bar has been exposed, revealing a hidden fire place, and the old window along the back wall is now filtering more light into the bar. They are back serving food, including their delicious Sunday roasts and I have a feeling that former landlord Joe O’Donnell would think his family have done an excellent job in retaining the Volley’s unrivalled presence in Broad Street. May that long be the case.
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IF you turn to our village news on page 8 you can read about the chairman of Charmouth Parish Council, Peter Noel, paying tribute to his clerk, Lisa Tuck, who has completed 25 years of service. I would like to add to that tribute as I believe Lisa is the best parish clerk I have come across in a long career of covering council meetings at all levels. I’m not very popular in the council chambers around the region. In fact, if you tried to get together all those councillors with whom I’ve crossed swords you would have to hire the Albert Hall. No, that won’t be big enough. Make it the O2. Although I don’t attend every meeting now, I’ve always considered Charmouth Parish Council to be among the more friendly
ones, through both the Mallory Hayter years and also the chairmanship of Peter Noel. On occasions, I’ve even been offered a cup of tea before the meeting starts. When it comes to seeking the co-operation of the clerk, Lisa Tuck stands alone. She is always polite, firm, co-operative and if she can’t answer your question she will always get back to you. One of the reasons Charmouth Parish Council is among the most efficient in this area is down in no small measure to the efficiency of Lisa. Local government is a difficult environment to operate in, especially these days, but I’m sure that Lisa really enjoys her job. She would have to, to stay on top of things for 25 years. When I started reporting on
Charmouth Parish Council in the late 1960s, meetings were held in a little hut in Lower Sea Lane. I always looked forward to meetings because one of the other local reporters was very pretty, a bit older than me, but I could never buck up the courage to ask her for a date. Lisa too started in that hut and then moved to the excellent council office facilities at The Elms. ● Whilst on Charmouth matters, I was very sorry to hear that Charmouth Football Club would not be entering the Perry Street League this year and I hope that does not mean the club will be disbanding completely. I recall my brother John playing for Charmouth and I would often go to watch a game and then do a report for the Lyme Regis News.
On one occasion, I think it might have been against Norton, all 22 players were swapping punches in the centre circle. The fight was started by Graham Gay, another signing from Lyme, the smallest player on the field. Down the years Charmouth has produced some great footballers, including Colin Bowditch who set a record never to be beaten when he scored 16 goals in the Cherries’ 32-0 win over Stockland. Lots of Lyme boys went over to Charmouth in those days and they were always looked after well after the game, especially by committee man Tom Stamp whose hospitality was legendary before the boys travelled back over the hill. I also recall they had a great ladies’ fundraising committee.
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Town council’s finances improving, Successful fundraising but ‘difficult decisions’ still lie ahead campaign not enough to THE town council’s financial forecast has started to improve following the reopening of more facilities in Lyme Regis, but the town clerk has still warned there will be “difficult decisions” ahead. Last month, town clerk John Wright reported that the council’s reserves were expected to drop by more than £900,000 over the next year, due to the effects of the coronavirus pandemic. In April, as lockdown measures first took hold, the council’s reserves stood at £969,794 but by June this had dropped to £581,674. The reserves were expected to continue decreasing rapidly to just £67,000 by the end of the financial year in March 2021 – a shock to many who considered Lyme to be a “rich council”, once with reserves of £1.3million. However, during a recent virtual meeting Mr Wright said that the financial position was now “starting to strengthen”, with reserves now expected to stand at just under £200,000 at the end of the financial year. He explained that the financial outlook had improved as the town had begun to reopen, with car parks now taking 65% of their historic income for this time of year, compared to 45 per cent when they first opened in May. The council’s amenities, such as the mini golf, had also now reopened but estimated income for these remained at 50 per cent compared to previous years. Last month the council agreed to a 20 per cent discount on Monmouth Beach chalet and caravan tenant fees to compensate for the site being closed during the height of the pandemic. A condition of this discount was that all outstanding debts from tenants had to be paid by March 2021, meaning the forecast income has now raised from £187,000 to
FRANCESCA EVANS
francesca@lyme-online.co.uk £204,000. Mr Wright said that there was also a possibility that the council may be eligible for funding from the Local Authority Income Loss Scheme, which could cover its lost car parking revenue, but further clarity was needed on this. The council’s finance officer Mark Russell added that some income from car parking would be delayed due to the number of people now paying via phone rather than in cash. Payments from chalet and caravan tenants may also be delayed as the council has had to re-invoice them, taking into account the government’s recent reduction in VAT.
‘We have options’
Mr Russell said that the council’s amenities had made a little under target this month, but they were opened later than expected due to a delay in the delivery of Perspex screens. He added that the council’s finances may be further boosted by the government’s Job Retention Scheme, which would see the authority receive a bonus of £1,000 for every furloughed member of staff that keeps their job until the end of the year. Despite the more positive outlook, Councillor Richard Doney said they should still be prepared in case “things go pear shaped”. He suggested that the council identify a “trigger point”, i.e. a figure in the reserves that would prompt the council to take urgent action, such as seeking a loan. He also suggested that members identify a target reserve figure to build up to, adding that £200,000 was not enough.
He said this would have to be done by increasing income, reducing expenditure and cutting running costs, and requested that officers prepare a report on how costs could be cut by 20 per cent and the knock-on effects this would have. The Mayor of Lyme Regis, Councillor Brian Larcombe, agreed with Councillor Doney’s points, adding that the council staffing and supply costs put together were more than £1million a year, which he said was “significant” for a council of this size. The town clerk agreed that “difficult decisions” would still have to be made. He commented: “I won’t pretend that this will be easy and councillors will have to think long and hard about things they would not normally want to do to build reserves up quickly. “It won’t be pleasant but we can do it; we have options.” The mayor agreed that the council still had to be prudent to build up reserves and prepare for the possibility of a second wave. “If there is a second wave the government will not be able to help as much as it has done this year, they will not be so generous and we will be on our own,” he added. “But Lyme Regis has more options that many other councils. This will be out main work for the autumn, building up our resilience.” It was agreed that, after seeking further clarity on the council’s eligibility for the Local Authority Income Loss Scheme, a further discussion on the council’s finances would be held when a target reserves figure would be set and decisions made on how to reach it.
Holmbush Café
secure fossil hunter’s letter CONTINUED FROM FRONT PAGE launched on Monday, just 24 hours before bidding closed, in an effort to raise £18,000 to secure the letter. The ambitious appeal smashed its target, raising more than £21,500 and, for a while, it looked as if Lyme may be lucky with bids on the Sotheby’s website hanging around the £18,000 mark. But in the last few minutes they shot up, with the letter eventually selling for a staggering £100,800. The money raised via the online campaign will now be returned to those who donated. Dated February 15 1829, Mary Anning sent the letter to her friend and collaborator, William Buckland, describing her latest discoveries on the Jurassic Coast, including a plesiosaur that is now in the Natural History Museum in London. She explains that she delayed sending him specimens because the recent frost had affected her work on the cliffs, but she was now sending him a box, writing: “…there are few coprolites which I hope you will think good there is one with bits of Sepia in it another in marle with some remarkable bones in it one has an impression of an Ammonite.” It is believed the box of coprolites that Anning sent to Buckland is now part of the collection of the Oxford Museum of Natural History. Little of Anning’s correspondence has survived and nothing has come into auction before. Lucy Culkin, CEO of the Jurassic Coast Trust, commented: “We would once again like to thank all of our supporters this week in our quest to bring
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Mary Anning's letter to Lyme Regis Museum. “Whilst we are disappointed not to have secured it, we are overwhelmed at the community effort to try and make it happen and to support two small charities with big ambitions to do so! “We are happy to return donations and are working with our crowdfunding platform to access appropriate data to do so; we will be in contact with all donors at the earliest opportunity. “If you wish to support the work and future projects of the Jurassic Coast Trust and Lyme Regis Museum with your donation, please let us know via message, or send us a quick email: info@jurassiccoast.org. Thanks so much again for your support.” Anning, the working class daughter of a cabinet-maker, lived on the site where Lyme Regis Museum now stands and searched the surrounding cliffs for fossils to sell. Although she did not win the recognition she deserved from the scientific community during her own lifetime, due to her lower class and sex, she is now considered one of the most significant palaeontologists of all time, with her discoveries including the first correctly-identified ichthyosaur. Anning, who died in 1847, will soon be brought back to life by award-winning actress Kate Winslet in the film ‘Ammonite’, which was partially filmed in Lyme Regis in March 2019. The film is set for release next year, having been delayed by the coronavirus pandemic, and is expected to create a tourism boom in Lyme Regis.
Hairdressers Mens & Boys
Modern & Traditional Competitive Prices Two Qualified Experienced Haridressers for Appointments Everyday and Walk-In System David and Trish of Holmbush Café would like to thank everyone who has stopped and wished us luck now we have reopened. We are open from 9.30am Tuesday to Sunday for takeaway drinks, cakes and ice creams!
Find us in Holmbush Car Park, Sidmouth Road, Lyme Regis
Please ring bell inside door at bottom of stairs to enquire and remember your face mask! Card or cash accepted Open 8.45am to 5pm weekdays (close 3pm Thursdays) and 8.45am to 4pm Saturdays
- Lyme Regis -
01297 442442
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Parish clerk praised for 25 years of service CHARMOUTH parish clerk Lisa Tuck has been praised as she celebrates 25 years in the job. Parish council chairman Peter Noel presented Mrs Tuck with a bouquet of flowers and made a touching tribute to her dedication and professionalism. He said: “Sadly, many of our residents will not know this lady, which is without doubt their loss. Lisa has been our parish clerk since 1995 and has gone through all the trials and tribulations that have affected the village over 25 years. “Lisa’s career started with Dorset Council before moving to Charmouth where, initially, she worked in the small building next to the community hall until the council bought The Elms. “Since then the rules and regulations governing the council have changed completely. The council and clerk now deal with volumes of paperwork, risk assessments and procedures. Lisa has handled these changes with total professionalism, integrity and dedication. “In addition, she has also had
to deal with many new councillors, including me, all asking questions and needing supervision. Amazingly, she remains calm and treats everybody with respect and care despite the occasional angry member of the public. “I have had the privilege of knowing Lisa for 20 years, the last seven as a councillor and the last five years as chairman. I know as chair of the council, when I do something wrong Lisa will talk to me and we will put it right in her usual diplomatic way. “In all my years in business I have met very few people who have her professionalism, honesty and integrity; it is a privilege to work with her and I hope we will be able to keep her as our parish clerk for many years to come. “I am sure my views would be shared by many councillors, however I must stress these are my personal views.” PICTURED right, parish clerk Lisa Tuck receives a bouquet of flowers from Charmouth Parish Council chairman, Councillor Peter Noel
New booking system for Uplyme tennis court A NEW online booking system has been launched for Uplyme tennis court, with players no longer able to book the facilities at the village store and garage. The trustees of the King George V playing field, which run the tennis court, have offered the facilities for free since they were allowed to reopen last month, but charges are now being reintroduced with the new booking system. The court can be booked online at https://clubspark.lta.org.uk/UplymeVillageTennisCourt, costing £7 for an hour. A code will be issued for a padlock on the tennis court gate when booking. Jim Thomas, one of the King George V trustees, said: “We feel this is still very good value and will help us recoup some of our lost income this year. It will also enable us to raise funds to replace part of the fencing and keep the court in good condition.
“Later in the year we intend introducing a membership option which will enable members to pay an annual fee rather than pay every time the court is booked - more details will appear on our website.” Tennis players will no longer be able to book and pick up a key at the Uplyme post office, village store and filling station - it will only be online booking and payment. Mr Thomas added: “Our thanks go to the staff of the village store for their invaluable help in the past. We hope that those with limited use of a computer can find a friend, neighbour or family member to help should they need it. “Please remember that the court is only to be used for tennis - no football, basketball or skateboarding on it! Enjoy your tennis and please observe the current government advice on reducing the spread of COVID-19.”
Heritage coast centre reopens THE Charmouth Heritage Coast Centre reopened doors on August 1 following the coronavirus lockdown. To ensure the safety of visitors and staff, visitor numbers allowed in the beach-front attraction have been reduced and a queuing system has been introduced from the rear entrance of the building. Entry remains free and no booking is required. The centre will be taking contact details of visitors for the Track and Trace system, sanitising stations will be in place at entrances and inside, and visitors are being asked to wear face masks. The award-winning centre, which houses an impressive fossil collection, is currently unable to run its usual programme of public events, but private fossil hunting walks for families up to six are available. For more information and opening times, visit the website https://charmouth.org/chcc/
SHOP LOCAL: Support your village shops and businesses!
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‘Overwhelming support’ for town’s friendly Tourist Information Centre OVERWHELMING support for Lyme Regis Tourist Information Centre was shown in a recent public consultation, the results of which have now been published by Dorset Council.
Dorset Council recently held a public consultation on the future of the Tourist Information Centre (TIC), saying its preferred option would be to close the facility and no longer provide a face-to-face service. The TIC, while run by Dorset Council, currently occupies the ground floor of Guildhall Cottage in Bridge Street, which is owned by Lyme Regis Town Council. The town council is currently intending on refurbishing the entire building and to take over the ground floor to extend its existing offices upstairs. Dorset Council was given noticed that the TIC would need to vacate the premises by spring 2020. This was later extended until July but the facility then closed at the end of March due to the coronavirus outbreak and is currently being cleared out, although staff are still manning a phone line and displaying up-to-date local information in the windows of the building. Dorset Council said that, as it had been given notice to vacate the premises, it was taking the opportunity to consider the future of the service. But the town council argued its decision to terminate the lease was not the whole reason behind the potential closure of the TIC. Town clerk John Wright has previously said that the decision to terminate the lease was only made after discussions with Dorset Council, and its predecessor West Dorset District Council, over the future of the TIC broke down and Dorset Council representatives failed to attend scheduled meetings on the subject. Dorset Council has acknowledged that it is cost-
FRANCESCA EVANS
francesca@lyme-online.co.uk ing approximately £87,000 a year to fund the TIC, and retaining the service as it is “not a viable option”. In the consultation document, three options were put to the public: Option 1 – Close the TIC and no longer provide a face to face service. The council will continue to invest in supporting tourism through its Visit Dorset website service. This was Dorset Council’s preferred option. Option 2 – Close the TIC and provide a self-service capability e.g. touch screen terminal. Option 3 – Consider the provision through another delivery model e.g. voluntary sector”. A total of 1,128 responses were received, mostly from individuals and some from local businesses and organisations. The response to the council’s preferred Option 1 was described as “clear and overwhelming”, with 95.2 per cent of respondents disagreeing or strongly disagreeing with the proposal to close the TIC and no longer offer a face to face service. The vast majority felt they would be affected a great deal or to some extent by the potential closure of the TIC. The report on the results said: “Clearly the wide range of the services (and particularly the local knowledge) combined with a friendly face to face service is popular with the residents and visitors. “Specific mention was made of people’s reluctance or inability to use more modern web based information services. The ability to buy Marine Theatre tickets is a popular service.” The response to Option 2 was also clear and fairly overwhelming, with 89.1 per cent of respondents disagreeing/strongly disagreeing with
the proposal to close the TIC and provide a selfservice outlet such as a touch screen. Again, the majority felt they would be affected a great deal or to some extent by this option. The most regular theme in responses was that local knowledge delivered face to face works far better than an impersonal terminal. Also, using a terminal loses the local knowledge and there were concerns that the terminal could not provide the range of information currently provided by the TIC staff. There were also general concerns about not using technology and technology being unreliable and not kept up-to-date. The response to Option 3 was more mixed with 53.1 per cent of respondents disagreeing or strongly disagreeing with the proposal to consider the provision of a tourist information service through another delivery model, such as a volunteer-led model. There was significant support for using a voluntary model but many preferred a mixture of paid and volunteer staff. Others stressed their concerns over the reliability of volunteers. Co-location with another organisation was well supported with Jubilee Pavilion on Marine Parade being the most popular location. There was some support for the town council running the TIC but the main support was for Dorset Council and the town council to jointly run the service. There was only limited support for local businesses running it. Whilst an alternative delivery model had some support there was still a major undercurrent who felt the TIC should remain as is with no change. Dorset Council says it is now in “active discussions” with Lyme Regis Town Council over the future of the Tourist Information Centre and both councils are “committed to working together”.
The TIC is expected to be vacated by the end of August to allow for the council’s office refurbishment, although this project has also been put on hold due to the financial effects of the coronavirus pandemic. Councillor Tony Alford, portfolio holder for Customer, Community and Regulatory Services at Dorset Council, said: “We appreciate a lot has happened since the early part of this year when many of us took part in the public consultation on the future of tourism services in Lyme Regis and attended our drop-in sessions in the town. “The coronavirus pandemic has affected how we all live and work on a daily basis. We are marking the relaxation of lockdown by reviewing public accessibility to council services and wanted to update you on progress. “We would like to thank local residents, businesses, organisations and visitors to Lyme Regis for sharing their views about how any changes to the current Tourist Information Centre would affect them. “The discussions which are taking place between Dorset Council and Lyme Regis Town Council very much centre on feedback from the public consultation and the many suggestions put forward. “We value everyone’s input and would like to thank everyone for sharing their views which are being used to shape and inform the future of local information services in Lyme Regis.” Town clerk John Wright added: “Lyme Regis Town Council is in active discussions with Dorset Council regarding the future of local information services in Lyme Regis. “While no decisions have been made about how or where these services may be delivered, both councils are working together to find a sustainable outcome which will benefit the whole town and provide access to key local information.”
The BIG BREAKFAST is back! Supporting
Research funds have been severely affected by COVID-19
Friday 25 September, 8am to 1pm, at Woodmead Halls, Lyme Regis Full English Breakfast with orange juice, tea or coffee and toast and marmalade - £7 Vegetarian option available - £7 Bacon Rolls £3.50 - we will deliver if required
Tickets must be booked in advance for time slots in order to allow social distancing and table sanitisation Book for 8am or 10am or 12 noon - please call 07796 951991
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Lyme selected for prestigious research project
COULD THIS PROVIDE AN ANSWER TO OUR INCREASING TRAFFIC PROBLEMS? LYME Regis is one of three rural communities selected to take part in a major new research project led by the Royal College of Art, which will reimagine public spaces and transport systems in light of the coronavirus pandemic.
The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the current fragility of our interconnected world; from the importance of our local communities to the impacts on global trade, jobs and our natural environment. In response to this and wider challenges about the future, designers from the Royal College of Art (RCA) – supported by the professional bodies of the Transport Planning Society, the Chartered Institute of Highways & Transportation (CIHT), the Royal Town Planning Institute, and private organisations ITP, UK Regeneration and MBC – have come together to seek a better way forward. Together with partners from councils, civil society and charities, the RCA has connected with three rural communities around England so that they can understand their beliefs, feelings and knowledge about their towns. The three communities are Biggleswade in Bedfordshire, Haltwhistle and surrounding parishes in Northumberland, and Lyme Regis. The college will be using residents’ experience and knowledge to develop a set of tools that will help them to reimagine how they can build their community together, improve the ways they get around their town as well as beyond and how they might share their ideas about the future in more collaborative and supportive ways. Lynda Addison OBE, former chairman of the Transport Planning Society and chairman of CIHT Sustainable Transport Panel, said: “We need to create a ‘plastics’ moment, as Sir David Attenborough did for oceans, in the approach to community and transport planning. “We want to create places where local services and activities are truly local or accessible
and we need to give confidence to all sectors of society that this is deliverable, essential given the major challenges in society, and effective. “This will require a paradigm shift in thinking and action and will only be achieved if it is supported and led by local communities as well as politicians and industry partners.” The project will be led by the Intelligent Mobility Design Centre at the RCA and will include an interdisciplinary team from mobility design, architecture, communication and service design who will be using their creative skills to develop a vision of future community planning that is both inclusive and fit for the future. The college will be sharing design insights and a prototype proposal from the project on the TPS’s Transport Planning Day on November 16. Stakeholders who have agreed to provide additional knowledge include Living Streets, Sustrans, The RAC Foundation, The National Association of Local Councils, The Centre for Ageing Better and Social Research Associates Ltd. In Lyme Regis, the Community Support Group that was initially set up to help vulnerable residents during the coronavirus pandemic is co-ordinating the project to build on the goodwill, care and resilience shown by the volunteers and residents during lockdown, and to develop its role in continuing to engage in activities that bring the community together. One of the lead members of the Community Support Group is town councillor Belinda Bawden, who commented: “We are keen for the Community Support Group to continue to be at the heart of how we look after each other in Lyme, working closely with the local health and social care team. “Lyme Regis was selected as one of three small towns around the UK to take part and it seems an ideal project for us to develop the group's continuing role in community engagement.
“We expect the findings will be really valuable not only for us but for the Lyme Regis Development Trust, the town council and Dorset Council in their future planning for the town and surrounding area.” Findings from the research project could help to tackle one of Lyme Regis’ biggest issues - traffic congestion and parking problems. Councillor Bawden is keen for residents who have previously made suggestions to help ease these issues, either via public consultations or in letters and correspondence to LymeOnline, to get in touch again with their ideas. She has also outlined her own ideas to address these problems in the panel to the right, saying she believes Lyme should start looking at “bold solutions”. You can share your ideas for the research project at http://tiny.cc/ourfuturetown or contact Belinda Bawden on belindabawden@gmail.com for more information.
Busy week for those keeping us safe on the coast IT’S been busy week for emergency services in Lyme Regis, with several call outs to assist those on the coast. Lyme Regis lifeboat crew were launched on Monday afternoon to assist the local fire and rescue service, following reports that three people – two adults and a child – had been cut off by the tide between Broom Cliffs and St Gabriel’s Steps, east of the town’s harbour. The lifeboat crew were on scene at 3.20pm but by 3.26pm it was established that the group could not be located and the lifeboat team were stood down. This was the 27th call for help answered by the volunteer lifeboat crew so far this year. The same evening at about 8pm, Lyme Regis coastguards were requested to help a 13-year-old boy with a dislocated knee on Lyme Regis beach. The coastguards were able to use the lifeboat boathouse to treat the boy as they waited for the South Western Ambulance Service to arrive, and he was then taken to Dorset County Hospital. It was then an early start for the coastguard team, who were called out again at 6.56am on Tuesday to help find a 74-yearold man reported to have lost consciousness between Charmouth and Lyme Regis. The man was found on the sea wall to the east of Lyme Regis and was passed into the
care of the South Western Ambulance Service. Later on Tuesday, Lyme Regis lifeboat crew answered an emergency call – to go to the aid of another lifeboat! A former ship’s lifeboat, once capable of carrying 50 people, was reported drifting with engine problems off Seaton beach. The old lifeboat, named Gryphon, with four men aboard was on sea trials when the alarm was raised by Beer Coastguards at 3.55pm. The Gryphon was later able to sail under its own steam and was escorted by the RNLI crew to the safety of Lyme Regis harbour arriving at 5.20pm. On return, the lifeboat crew were then asked to assist Lyme Regis Coastguards with a casualty aboard a RIB boat suffering from back trouble. The casualty had collapsed into the bow of the vessel after sustaining a back injury in heavy seas. The lifeboat and coastguards worked to-
COASTGUARDS and the lifeboat crew worked together to assist a casualty with an injured back and, top, the crew approach the old lifeboat Gryphon
gether to extract the casualty from the boat and pass them into the care of the South Western Ambulance Service. Stay safe this summer – for emergencies on the coast, cliffs or tidal river, call 999 and ask for the coastguards.
TRAFFIC SOLUTIONS by town councillor Belinda Bawden ● Prevent
all traffic coming in to town by restricting access only for deliveries, residents' access, Blue Badge holders and public transport, including taxis and shuttle buses to/from the main car parks. ● Increase charges in Dorset Council main car parks - Holmbush & Charmouth Road. ● Designate the Cobb Gate car park for Blue Badge holders only & the Broad Street for residents' only. ● Restrict all traffic with controllable bollards in Silver Street (below Hill Road); Pound Street (below Cobb Road); Charmouth Road just below car park. ● Have automated signs indicating car park spaces available at each of Holmbush, Charmouth Road, Woodmead, Monmouth/Cabanya car parks. ● Install a shuttle bus service doing a loop round the main car parks to take people in and out of town who didn't want to walk. ● Keep parked cars off the Cart Road there and Marine Parade - much safer for walkers. ● Keep A-boards off the pavements in Broad Street and Marine Parade and the Cobb Hamlet. It is dangerous currently with the volume of pedestrians and social distancing is impossible where there are Aboards. ● Establish E-bike rental hubs in various locations in town and investigate proper cycle lanes to encourage cyclists. ● Kingsway should become a school street. It could be closed off at both ends (i.e. residents' access only) or blocked at the Queen's Walk end to prevent through traffic. ● 20mph through most of the town. ● Park & Ride in Charmouth Road must be encouraged by charging much more for the Charmouth Road and Holmbush car park £5 or £6 for a day. The additional revenue could be shared between Dorset Council and Lyme Regis Town Council or ringfenced for other measures in town to improve health and well-being. Better still, please transfer responsibility for the car parks to LRTC. ● Residents would welcome a reduction in traffic chaos in Lyme and businesses would thrive as more people would use the town centre knowing they could walk on the pavements without fear of being knocked over and of breathing air polluted by traffic fumes.
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LOOKING BACK AT REGATTA & CARNIVAL
ABOVE, youngsters including Jack and Sophie Barclay, Ollie, Emily and Katrina Dixon, celebrate their winning ‘Red Sparrows’ carnival entry in the late 1990s. Right, young Noah Turner has become a carnival favourite in more recent years. Below, Lyme Regis Majorettes - a staple of all carnival processions. Photos by Richard Austin
No regatta this summer - but Lyme’s fun event will return I KNOW exactly how long the Regatta & Carnival in Lyme has been going - because it was reformed after the war in the year I was born - 1948, writes Philip Evans. This week we should have been celebrating the 72nd anniversary of my favourite summer event - but alas it has, like every other summer activity, fallen foul to COVID-19. But it will return and I for one can’t wait. I owe the Regatta and Carnival a great deal. I served as its secretary for ten years in the late 1960s and early 1970s and it gave me a great grounding in organising events which has stood me in good stead for the last 50 years. To a certain extend, It’s been usurped by Lifeboat Week as Lyme’s most spectacular event - but it will always be a favourite of those born in Lyme. Many return to their hometown for regatta week and its the ideal time to have the grandkids visit because there are so many family-orientated events to keep them amused. I can’t wait for mine to become an age
when they can spend some time with granny and granddad. The original concept of the Regatta and Carnival was to provide a week of fun for locals and visitors alike and if there was any money left over it would be donated to local good causes. These days the emphasis is very much on fundraising and in recent years tens of thousands of pounds have been raised for a myriad of different charities with the emphasis very much on helping young people. The driving force for many years has been town crier Alan Vian and his loyal wife Lynne. Our town owes them a great deal, not just for their efforts during the Regatta and Carnival but also during Lifeboat Week and at many other local events throughout the year. If nothing else, Alan and Lynne can take a bit of a breather but, knowing them, I don’t think there’s much chance of that happening.
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LOOKING BACK AT REGATTA & CARNIVAL
FORMER Regatta Queens Joan Bevis and Betty Jones with then Regatta Queen Charlene Jones in the 1990s (photo by Richard Austin). Below left, Dave Hercock dressed as a chimney sweep in the kids fancy dress competition 1963. Below right, Regatta Queen 1968 - name unknown but believed to be a Swedish au pair living in Lyme Regis - with attendant Patsy Roberts and Stuart Hutchinson from Westward TV who crowned the queen
UPLYME Cubs and Scouts in their favourite football shirts for the carnival procession (photo by Richard Austin)
MANY familiar faces from Lyme take part in a fancy dress night in the 1980s
CARNIVAL attendants get ready for the duck race (photo by Richard Austin)
A 1980s carnival entry from the Rock Point Inn, with then landlord Brian Hayball pictured far right
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Mark Hix is back in business THE esteem in which top chef Mark Hix is held in the culinary world was demonstrated when The Daily Telegraph magazine on Saturday published a cover story on how the Lyme Regis restaurateur lost his empire and has had to start again rebuilding his business and reputation.
In a six-page feature entitled ‘Mark Hix: I’ve lost everything so I’m starting again with a food truck’, Mark explains to food writer and broadcaster William Sitwell why he is making a fresh start and opens his heart about the disappointment of losing control of the chain of restaurants that carry his name, including the much lauded HIX Oyster & Fish House in Lyme. In his intro Sitwell wrote: “Chef Mark Hix had it all: fame critical acclaim and five restaurants employing 130 staff. And then, as COVID-19 hit his food empire, was left in tatters.” Those of us in Lyme, however, know Mark as the laid-back local (he was born in Bridport), a happy-go-lucky chap despite the 24/7 pressure of running a restaurant empire, keen fisherman and host of the highly successful Food Rocks festival in Lyme which has raised thousands of pounds for his favourite charities, the RNLI and The Fishermen’s Mission, an event which brought a number of celebrities to town. He is also a great art enthusiast, a friend of Tracey Emin who was an occasional visitor to the Oyster & Fish House drawing sketches of diners’ napkins and, it was rumoured, partied so long at the restaurant on one occasion that she had to sleep on the floor. Marks’s love of art was well represented in all his restaurants, especially the Tramshed, now closed, which provide a home for Damien Hirst’s famous part of his Natural History series, ‘Cock and Bull’ - a Hereford cow and cockerel preserved in a steel and glass tank of formaldehyde – suspended from the restaurant ceiling. Sitwell’s article described Mark as a “food-industry legend with his name associated with some of London’s most popular and swankiest restaurants, from The Ivy to Le Caprice, and establishments from extravagant Mayfair to trendy Shoreditch”. The article also chronicles how his business suffered a “catastrophic collapse” just before lockdown and how he “lost
PHILIP EVANS
philip@lyme-online.co.uk everything”. Mark describes how he has started again by launching the HIX Oyster & Fish Truck which he has stationed in the car park of Felicity’s Farm Shop at Morcombelake, only a short distance from his house in Charmouth. Mark is quoted as saying: “I’ve started again from scratch. I’m a fishmonger”, adding that his former head chef Jeremy ‘Jez’ Bird helped him out and they “slogged their guts out” for four days to make £140 each. The interview was clearly conducted before Mark was able to reveal that he was fighting to get the Oyster & Fish House in Lyme back under his control. And he achieved exactly that – reopening the Lister Gardens’ venue last Monday when the premises crowded with some of his regular customers throughout the day.
Hix brand lives on
So the Hix love affair with his West Dorset roots lives on. I thought Mark looked more relaxed on his opening day than I have seen him for ages, paying close attention to all the dishes on his new menu as they left the kitchen. Unfortunately, he has not been able to retain the HIX Townhouse bed and breakfast establishment in Pound Street. But the Hix brand lives on in Lyme and that is a good thing – people travel huge distances just to eat at the Oyster & Fish House which probably has the best views of any restaurant along the south coast. One disappointment has troubled Mark, however. He is surprised and angry that his application for a liquor licence has been opposed by one of Lyme’s most senior councillors, deputy mayor Stan Williams, who has been waging a 30-year battle against the owners of the property over alleged land encroachment. Mark told LymeOnline: “I don‘t know what his problem is. His fight is not mine. It’s not a new licence after all. There’s been one at the Fish House for donkey’s years. “I am just the tenant. You would have thought that a councillor would welcome the return of a business which attracts custom from all over the country and provides year-long employment.”
MARK Hix on the cover on Saturday’s Daily Telegraph magazine in which he describes how he lost everything due to COVID-19
The Mad Hatter’s
Find Spongbakes Cakes at The Mad Hatter’s of Lyme Regis 34 Broad Street
Treat yourself to a slice of delicious cake to take away or pop in and order a whole cake
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Still waiting on chalet leases LymeOnline Letters August 3 2020 and the leases have not been issued. Could Stan do something useful and go down to the council office and help by putting the stamps on the envelopes? Tom McDougal (by email)
■ YOU will be aware that Cllr Stan Williams has been very concerned that some caravan and chalet owners are not paying their licence fees. The situation is not as simple as he makes it. After years of anxiety and confusion, caravan and chalet owners are still waiting for their new leases. Deputy town clerk Mark Green wrote on July 2: “For those chalet owners waiting for leases, we have agreed an absolute backstop of July 17 for sending these out, hopefully earlier. Invoices will be sent with the leases.” On July 8 Mr Green wrote: “We will be happy to send leases, etc electronically as well as in hard copy to as many as we have email addresses for.”
EDITOR’S NOTE: In response to this letter, the council issues the following statement: “The council decided to apply a discount to the site fees due to the temporary closure of the chalet and caravan park during the coronavirus pandemic and the government has changed the rules on VAT. These changes have led to a delay in producing the invoices, which will accompany the leases.”
■ I GO into the Tesco in Lyme at 7am as I want to avoid people and stay as safe as possible. This morning a man came in who was not wearing a mask and walked very close to me. I asked him if he should be wearing a mask and he just walked off. I found the store manager and pointed out the fact that the man was not wearing a mask whilst in his store. He said they had been instructed not to intervene. I asked if I could take a photo and he said he would prefer me not to do so.
The man without a mask used the self checkout. I have not seen the self checkouts cleaned between use. I do not feel that everything reasonable is being done in order to reduce the chance of the spread of the virus around Lyme Regis. I am therefore writing to you in the hope that you can make visitors and residents of Lyme Regis aware of this so they can consider carefully how to protect themselves. Name and address supplied
Protect others and wear a mask
Seafront security guards a ‘reasonable’ choice ■ THE mayor's decision to spend £10,080 on security guards for the seafront seems a reasonable one. It is very easy to lose a good reputation and difficult to get it back. This insurance policy will hopefully make sure we avoid any negative publicity. Councillor Michaela Ellis was happy to persuade colleagues to spend £40,000 for a mi-
nority interest organisation [St Michael’s Parish Church] with assets of £8.3 billion (yes, £8,300,000,000!) but does not think we should spend £10,000 protecting the town's reputation. “We should not waste our money,” she said (see page 3). Some of us thought that about the £40,000. Name and address supplied
The views expressed in letters are those of the author and not necessarily of this newspaper
Friday, August 7 2020 15
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Thank you for support and kindness
■ MY family and I would like to thank the literally hundreds of people who so thoughtfully sent cards and letters to us on the occasion on Keith’s death. It was and still is a great comfort to know how much he meant to so many and how many lives he had touched in the time since we came to Lyme. From 1985 we were holiday and free time residents with our family and, on retirement, Keith was able to help succeeding incumbents in the parish and surrounding villages from 1997.
We found a busy community and enjoyed the variety of belonging to and taking part in the many opportunities Lyme has always offered. This was reflected in the letters and brought back many memories happy and sad. At the present strange time we are hoping to have a family cremation and later when we can a thanksgiving service in our church for us all. With sincere thanks for the many kindnesses. Audrey Vivian and family, Sidmouth Road, Lyme Regis
Please take home your buckets and spades! ■ THIS is what we find regularly on our early morning swims on the front beach. When will people ever learn to take home their rubbish and plastic? This all goes in our sea at high tide. It makes us so angry. Judy and Terry Woodard, Lyme Regis
Ever fancied a paper round? LymeOnline is looking for more volunteers to deliver newspapers in their own street or area Due to the financial effects of COVID-19, we’ll be changing the way we distribute our free, fortnightly newspaper when it is relaunched on August 7th and we are now looking for more volunteers
WHY VOLUNTEER? Catch up with all the latest local news Get to know your neighbours Enjoy some regular exercise Help support this non-profit community newspaper
If you would be interested in volunteering, call Francesca Evans on 07810 221 420 for more details
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Sponsored by Axminster Nub News - axminster.nub.news
Memorial garden planned for Axminster's Flamingo Pool former mayor Douglas Hull launches crowdfunding appeal PLANS are afoot to establish a memorial garden in Axminster to honour the memory of Douglas Hull, the father of Axminster Town Council, and three times mayor, who died in May after 50 years of service. Discussions are taking place between Axminster Town Council and former mayor Paul Hayward, who is now deputy leader and portfolio holder for economy and assets at East Devon District Council Cllr Hayward told Nub News: “I am delighted to be assisting Axminster Town Council in their quest to find a suitable piece of land within the town to dedicate to the life, and esteemed service, of former town, district and county councillor Douglas Hull, and to ensure that this proposed garden area is cherished, used and loved by all, as a place of calm, tranquil and peaceful enjoyment. “It would be a perfect and fitting tribute to the man who always had Axminster’s best interests at heart. “Never one to shy away from getting his point across, Douglas’s passion and zeal for improving the lives of all the town’s residents was never in doubt.
"He rarely took no for an answer and campaigned, and volunteered, for a great number of beloved local institutions and charities. His legacy in that regard will live on forever. “I have asked EDDC officers to help me, and the Town Mayor, Cllr. Anni Young, to identify a suitable piece of publicly owned land - with good access for all regardless of mobility - and nothing would please me more than to see this proposed garden alive with colour; a perfect memorial for a man who brought so much colour into the lives of all who knew him.”
THE charity-run Flamingo Pool in Axminster has launched a crowdfunding appeal to ensure the future of the popular amenity which has yet to re-open from coronavirus lockdown. Indoor pools have been given the go-ahead to open again with strict social distancing rules being observed. But the Axe Valley Swimming Association, the registered charity which runs the pool, issued a statement last week saying they were doing all they could to reopen after losing £50,000 during lockdown, and appealed to the public to "support us or lose us". In a further statement published on their website, the association appealed for donations from the public. The statement said: "Following the overwhelming feedback from our valued customers we have set up a JustGiving page for anyone who wishes to continue their support through this closure and difficult times. "Please donate all you can and share this page wide and far to aid our chances of ensuring sustainability for our fantastic community facility.
A national network of h hyperlocal news websites, now covering the Axminster & Seatton areas With editorial content provided by the team from Ly Lym meOnline
Visit our new websites at
axminsterr..nub.news and seaton.nub.news And don’t forget to follow us on Facebook & T Tw witter to keep up to date with all the latest local news
"Your support is greatly appreciated from all at the Flamingo Pool and wider community and we thank you for your ongoing support." You can support the appeal by making a donation online at https://justgiving.com/crowdfunding/flamingo-covidsupport Other fundraising initiatives include the 100 Club in which members give £4 a month for the chance of winning up to £60 and going through the Giving Machine when buying online to enable the pool to receive vital funds and no cost to the buyer. Other East Devon pools at Exmouth and Sidmouth - run by East Devon Leisure, an offshoot of East Devon District Council - reopened on August 1 but don't rely on public funding. Following comments on social media, the association released the costs of running the pool: £432,972 a year; £36,000 a month; £1,266 a day; £105 an hour; £1.75 a minute. And they added: "We greatly appreciate any donation no matter of size in order to help keep out local community friendly swimming pool afloat."
Can you make a difference by standing for town council? FOLLOWING the resignation of Cllr Charles Hall and the death of Cllr Douglas Hull, two further vacancies have arisen on Axminster Town Council representing Raymonds Hill and the Town Ward respectively. Cllr Hull, who was the father of the council, having served for more than 50 years, was Mayor of Axminster on three occasions. He died after a long illness in May. Cllr Hall had only been a councillor representing Raymonds Hill since January. The due process of recruitment has commenced with the Returning Officer at East Devon District Council and should anyone be interested in further details of the vacancy and what is involved, they should contact the council’s administrative assistant in the first instance on email enquiries@axminstertowncouncil.gov.uk or on 32088. A statement of the council’s website says: “We hope that the recent spirit of volunteering shown during the COVID-19 lockdown will have inspired people to look at other ways in which they can help shape the future of our wonderful town.” Notification has now been received that there was no petition from electors seeking an election to fill the vacancy for Town Ward caused by the resignation of Cllr Wales so the council will now be able to fill the vacancy by co-option.
■ EAST Devon District Council is putting plans in place to assist those affected by job losses at Axminster’s Goulds Pumps factory. It was announced last week that the factory, which has operated in Axminster for 25 years, would be closed with work being transferred to parent company ITT Industries’ factory in Germany. Cllr Paul Hayward, East Devon District Council’s deputy leader and portfolio holder for economy and assets, says he is now working with the council’s economic team to put together a staff resource place to “assist all those affected at this terrible time”. He said new of the factory’s closure broke before relevant agencies could be properly consulted, but they could support staff once the formal notice of planned redundancies were submitted. Cllr Hayward added: “Another significant blow for the town and is likely to have knockon effects for everyone in town; the landlord, staff, suppliers, ancillary companies and family. “Sadly, we’ve seen this happen before locally and the mental health challenges might, in conjunction with the stress of COVID-19, be as bad as the financial ones. But the town is renowned for pulling together at times of adversity, so we take stock, and move forward.” More details about support for staff of Goulds Pumps is expected to be released shortly. ■ COMPLAINTS over loud music led police to break up an open-air party in Hawkchurch on the night of Friday, July 31. Officers said attempts to negotiate with organisers prior to and at the start of the event failed to prevent the music being halted and it was declared an unlicensed gathering under section 63 of the Public Order Act. In the early hours of August 1st, police units entered the site and seized the sound equipment, preventing the event from continuing. The incident has led to debate on social media with some describing the event as an illegal rave while others argue it was just a birthday party. The BBC reported that 200 people attended the event and there were 100 cars on site, but police have not yet confirmed this. ■ POLICE are appealing for information on any incidents of anti-social behaviour in the Foxhill area of Axminster. The Axminster Neighbourhood Police Team has received a number of complaints about youths committing anti-social behaviour in the play park at Foxhill in recent weeks. In order to help officers deal with the situation, police are requesting that any incidents be reported at the time and as much information as possible be given - including the number of people involved, their age, gender, description and, if known, any names. Reports can be made on the phone via 101 or via the Devon and Cornwall Police website. ■ EMERGENCY services were called to a three-vehicle crash on the junction of Cherry Tree Road and Chard Road, Axminster, on Sunday morning. Police, ambulance and fire crews from Axminster and Lyme Regis attended the scene at about 11am this morning. Three casualties were medically trapped in the vehicles and fire crews assisted ambulance to safely remove them. ■ FOUR fire crews were called after the alarm was raised at a care home in Axminster. Axminster, Lyme Regis and Charmouth fire engines, and an aerial ladder platform from Yeovil were called to the care home at about 7am on Sunday morning. The cause of the fire was found to be a faulty LED light fitting, which was quickly dealt with by the Axminster crew.
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WE ARE PLEASED TO BE SERVING OUR CUSTOMERS ONCE AGAIN
We are taking part in EAT OUT TO HELP OUT Eat in or take-away in eco-friendly packaging WE CURRENTLY HAVE A MORE LIMITED MENU BUT Try our famous SHAKSHUKA
In the Middle East Shakshuka is synonomous with breakfast or brunch. A traditional dish of poached eggs braised in our homemade spicy tomato and pepper sauce, topped with feta and corianders and served with pitta or baguette.
Also serving TRADITIONAL ENGLISH BREAKFASTS, MAIN MEALS AND LUNCH SPECIALS CHILDREN’S MEALS SNACKS, TEAS AND DESSERTS Beach House Cafe 24 Marine Parade, Lyme Regis DT7 3JF 01297 445923
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WE WILL REMEMBER CONTINUING our series commemorating the anniversaries of the deaths of all Lyme Regis those who gave their lives in the Second World War, this week we remember Richard Ernest Austin, as well as several German airmen who were shot down off Lyme Regis. With thanks to Vernon Rattenbury of the Royal British Legion for the research.
RICHARD ERNEST AUSTIN
Aircraftman 2nd Class, Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve Service No. 1350800 Born May 2 1922 in Uplyme and died August 16 1940 in Tangmere, West Sussex Richard Austin enlisted in the Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve on July 1 1940 and was killed during an air raid on RAF Tangmere some six weeks later. Richard was running for cover when a bomb exploded near him; he was killed instantly. Another man from Lyme was at RAF Tangmere at the time, Richards first cousin, a Mr Holman [first name unknown], a sentry at the base. He was called to formerly identify the body before burial in the grounds of Tangmere Church. The son of Leading Seaman Walter Henry Austin, Royal Navy, and of Lillian Elizabeth Austin, of Uplyme, he is buried in St Andrew’s Churchyard, Tangmere, West Sussex, plot E, row 1, grave 470.
GERMAN AIRMEN SHOT DOWN OFF LYME REGIS
At this time we also remember the fallen of another country who are connected to Lyme. On August 14 1940, a Heinkel 111 (Wing No. 1G+CS) of 8 Staffel/Kampfgeschwader 27 took off from Rennes, France, at 6.10pm along with two others. Their target was to be RAF Sealand in North Wales. The crew were all experienced except for the beam-gunner Unteroffizier Heinrich Schrage who had been volunteered into the job. The pilot, Feldwebel Oskar Dubral and three others, Radio Operator Feldwebel Walter Gietz, Flight Engineer Feldwebel Franz Knoblich and Observer/Navigator Feldwebel Anton Wiesmeier made up the full battle compliment. Their formation were attacked in Lyme Bay by four Hurricanes of 213 Squadron, Royal Air Force based at Exeter. At 7.30pm the bomber was shot down by Pilot Officer Harold Atkinson. It crashed into the sea half a mile south east of Broad Ledge, off Lyme Regis. Two of the crew members were captured unhurt by an RAF air sea rescue launch out of Lyme. The three other members of the crew were killed. Two of those killed were buried in Lyme Regis cemetery, being exhumed in the 1970s and moved
to the German Military Cemetery at Cannock Chase, Staffordshire. The third, remains with the aircraft. The German aircrew of Heinkel 1G+CS were as follows:
FRANZ KNOBLICH
Feldwebel, German Luftwaffe Service No. 62693.41 Born April 4 1915 in Germany and died August 14 1940 in Lyme Bay Killed and initially buried in Lyme after his body was washed ashore on Chesil Beach two weeks later. Now buried in the German Military Cemetery, Cannock Chase, Staffordshire, plot 6, row 18, grave 369.
HEINRICH SCHRAGE
Unteroffizier, German Luftwaffe Service No. 62693.48 Born June 26 1917 in Germany and died August 14 1940 in Lyme Bay Died of wounds shortly after being rescued by a boat and was initially buried in Lyme Regis. Now buried in the German Military Cemetery, Cannock Chase, Staffordshire, plot 6, row 18, grave 358.
ANTON WIESMEIER
Feldwebel, German Luftwaffe Service No. 62693.48 Born June 6 (year unknown) in Herrsching, Germany and died August 14 1940 in Lyme Bay His body was not recovered from the aircraft and he is commemorated on the War Memorial in Herrsching, Bavaria.
OSKAR DUBRAL
Feldwebel, German Luftwaffe Taken Prisoner of War and landed at the Cobb, he was placed in Lyme Police Station before being sent to London for interrogation. He spent the remainder of the war in a Prisoner of War camp in Canada and was repatriated after the war. He worked for Lufthansa at Frankfurt airport becoming their representative in London between 1959-69. Moving back to Bonn, he died in January 1983.
WALTER GIETZ
Feldwebel, German Luftwaffe In March 1938 he served with the Condor Legion in the Spanish Civil War with 2 Staffel/Kampfgruppe K/88. Taken Prisoner of War and landed at the Cobb, he was placed in Lyme Police Station before being sent to London for interrogation. He spent the remainder of the war in a Prisoner of War camp in Canada and was repatriated after the war. He worked as a clerk for the British Government in Kiel.
■ Pictured right, a clipping from Pulman’s Weekly News in 1940, which describes how the German airmen were shot down in Lyme Bay, describing it as a “brilliant action by the RAF watched by hundreds of people out for an evening walk on the seafront”. Eyewitness Mr A. E. Lane, who was playing bowls on the seafront at the time, was quoted saying: “I had said for a long time I would like to see a scrap, but this didn’t last very long. Only two bursts of gunfire and down she came. We all stood and cheered on the bowling green.” Another witness, Mrs E. A. James, described it as “a wonderful piece of work and very thrilling”. One of the German airmen who survived the attack was supposedly overheard saying ‘Spitfires, too good” in broken English as he was brought ashore.
Friday, August 7 2020 21
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Lyme’s post-lockdown foodie revival HOW THE LOCAL FOOD SCENE IS COMING BACK STRONGER THAN EVER
O
VERCOMING fears for the future of the hospitality and retail industries, Lyme Regis has seen a foodie revival since lockdown restrictions were eased.
With pubs and restaurants busier than expected and a number of new establishments popping up across town, the post-lockdown revival shows confidence in Lyme’s ability to bounce back. There’s been a real buzz around the town’s burgeoning food scene in recent weeks, with old Lyme favourites welcoming back customers and new outlets adding to its increasing reputation. One of the biggest success stories in recent months has been The Pop Up Kitchen in Broad Street, considered one of the town’s best kept secrets… well, now the secret’s out! Encouraging diners to “try something new”, The Pop Up Kitchen opened under the management of local caterer Ali McLoughlin in late 2018, offering a shared space for guest chefs and food producers to serve up their dishes. It quickly became a launch pad for new local businesses. The Monmouth Table, which ran popular fish tapas nights in the space last year, has now opened old fashioned grocery shop The Monmouth Pantry next door, and Spongbakes Cakes, which has more recently been serving up its sweet treats from the Pop Up, has just opened its own outlet across the road, taking on the old name of the premises - The Mad Hatters. Harriet Mansell of Robin Wylde, who won huge acclaim at the Pop Up and featured on the BBC’s ‘Great British Menu’, will also soon be opening her own restaurant a few yards away on Silver Street. The Pop Up Kitchen’s current guests include Goose & Badger, offering “simple, no nonsense dining” from former River Cottage chefs Joel Gostling and Andy Tyrell on Monday nights; seafood and cocktails celebrating the best of Dorset produce by Tom’s on Thursdays, Fridays and Sundays; and slow Spanish food from The
POSH kebabs from Persian street food stand Open Sesame at The Ship Inn and, above, fritto misto from Tom’s at The Pop Up Kitchen
LymeOnline editor and food fan Francesca Evans explores Lyme’s growing foodie scene as the town bounces back after lockdown Strawberry Tree on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Saturdays. And it seems that pop-ups are the new ‘in thing’ as they’ve been springing up all over town in recent weeks. The Lyme Oyster Co. recently launched its popup stall on the seafront, serving fresh oysters, Dalwood Vineyard wines, Pologon soft drinks from Cornwall and Somerset strawberries and cream. The pop-up is a new venture of chef Tim Maddams and local businessman Matt Learmouth. Tim said: “Lyme Regis is such a great place, it’s got a lovely vibe and so many people out just to enjoy the scenery and all the things that Lyme has to offer. “Lyme Oyster Co. aims to become a part of that wonderful scene. Our oysters are fresh off the Dorset coast and are amongst the best in the world. Hearty, sustainable, natural and local that’s a hard combination to beat.” The stall will be back for weekends during August and September, bringing an added a touch of class to the seafront. Speaking of class, Dom’s Table zhuzhed up (yes, that’s a word, I checked) our usual takeaways during lockdown, offering three-course food boxes from The Galley Cafe once a week. But now restrictions are lifted, it’s opened its own pop-up next door to the LBK gourmet burger bar in Coombe Street. Run by another River Cottage alum, Dom Moldenhauer, the pop-up is open Wednesday to Saturday offering a daily-changing, three-course set menu for £28, using local, seasonal produce and organic wines. Coombe Street itself had become a foodie hotspot in the heart of Lyme Regis. The charming street tucked just off the town centre also boasts vegetarian paradise Tierra Kitchen, still currently offering a delivery service for those wanting to eat at home; the trendy Town Mill Bakery, now open for eating in or takeaway coffees, pastries and breads; and the family-friendly Italia Ristorante and Pizzeria, also open for both eating in and takeaway. Traditional fish and chips are available just across the road at Lyme’s Fish Bar, or if you’re looking for something different, The Ship Inn has been treating customers to Persian delights throughout lockdown with its festival-style Open Sesame food stand, serving what’s been described as “some of the best kebabs you’ll taste in the UK”. Next door you have The Millside, winning rave reviews since new owners Georgina and John took over at the end of 2019, and the buzzing Lyme Regis Brewery, which has quickly become one of Lyme’s trendiest watering holes, along with the Town Mill’s Courtyard Café. And at the end of Coombe Street, the new
Water’s Edge Café will be opening doors on August 19. Adjoining Bridge Street has also seen a revival in recent years, with Palmers Brewery’s flagship pub and restaurant The Pilot Boat one of the best placed to welcome guests to a COVID-safe environment thanks to its expansive restaurant and outdoor terrace, and St Austell recently opening its first pub in Dorset - the Rock Point Inn - after extensive refurbishment. Next door the trendy Lyme Bay Café Bar has also been busy since reopening, with diners and drinkers keen to soak up the outstanding views from its sunny terrace. Others bringing tastes from across the globe to Lyme Regis include Thai restaurant Largigi and Poco Pizza on Marine Parade. Sitting on the terrace of the newly-located pizza restaurant, overlooking the stunning Lyme Bay, you could be forgiven for thinking you were in the Mediterranean. Lyme also boasts two Indian restaurants in the town centre and, of course, sometimes you just can’t beat a Chinese takeaway, which can be found in Church Street. A walk along the seafront and you’re spoilt for choice for places to drink and dine - cocktails and burgers at SWIM, breakfast at the Beach House Cafe, delicious fish specials at The Harbour Inn, and traditional favourites at The Royal Standard and Cobb Arms. Don’t miss the new Kiosk on Marine Parade for delicious coffee, breakfast bagels and light lunches, and of course there’s plenty of choice when it comes to fish and chips and ice creams. Standing high in Lister Gardens and offering some of best views in town, The Oyster & Fish House has recently been reopened by celebrity chef Mark Hix - a great coup for Lyme Regis, bringing foodie fans from across the country to town. A further wander through the seafront gardens will bring you to the Alexandra Hotel & Restaurant, where you can enjoy everything from decadent afternoon tea to fantastic fish dishes. Back in Broad Street, the town centre is now a buzz with summer visitors and you might see queues out the door at some of the most popular food outlets, including the revamped Whole Hog and Asian takeaway Red Panda. Lyme’s quaintest pub, The Volunteer Inn, reopened this week and is offering traditional pub fayre Wednesday to Saturday and Sunday lunches, and the historic Royal Lion Hotel will be opening for lunches too. You can also relax with a coffee, enjoy traditional cream team, hearty breakfast or lunch at Lyme’s plethora of independent cafes and restaurants, including the Good Food Store, The Galley Cafe, Amid Giants & Idols, Penny Black and the Bell Cliff. If you want to escape the crowds, and enjoy a
DELICIOUS breakfasts at the Town Mill Bakery. Above, herb-crusted scallops at The Oyster & Fish House and, top, the sea bass special at The Pilot Boat bit of peace and quiet, head to the outskirts of the town where you’ll find Greens Restaurant at Lyme Regis Golf Club; hearty, homemade fayre at the Black Dog Tea Room in Uplyme or soak up the sun in the expansive beer garden and paddock at The Talbot Arms. It’s been no mean feat trying to eat my way through Lyme Regis since restaurants reopened their doors (and it’s done no favours for my waistline or bank balance!). I haven’t quite managed them all yet, but I’ve done my best to try as many as possible over the past month - it’s a tough job, but someone’s got to do it!
Many of the restaurants listed above are taking part in the government’s Eat Out to Help Out scheme this month - see the LymeOnline website www.lyme-online.co.uk for a full list of local participants.
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ART | MUSIC | THEATRE | WHAT’S ON | COMPETITIONS
Outdoor performances return to the Marine HAVING had its doors closed since the end of March due to the coronavirus pandemic, the Marine Theatre in Lyme Regis is looking forward to welcoming audiences again to a series of outside events this summer. With theatre, music and a children’s disco, the programme boasts something for everyone, with performances held on Theatre Square with stunning views across Lyme Bay. The events will start with Folksy Theatre’s production of Shakespeare’s hilarious comedy ‘The Taming of the Shrew’ on Saturday, August 15. Baptista Minola is attempting to marry off his two daughters; however, he will not marry off his youngest, the fair Bianca, until her elder sister, the ill-tempered Katherine, has found a husband. When the brave and lusty young nobleman, Petruccio comes to town, Bianca’s suiters are elated to learn that he intends to take on the challenge of taming and marrying Kate. But will Petruccio succeed in taming the wild and witty shrew? Filled with Folksy’s wonderful live music, bold characters and downright silliness, this hilarious production is not to be missed! The bar will open at 6pm for a 7pm start. Tickets cost £15 for adults, £12 for children or a family ticket permitting two adults and two children costs £48. Jazz Jurassica will be hosting the ever-popular Matt Carter and his dynamic trio of talented young musicians to electrify some jazz classics on Friday, September 4. With Matt’s percussive piano playing and catchy arrangements overlaid with Leigh Coleman’s velvety vocals they add new zest to familiar favourites. Matt is developing a national reputation for his dynamic piano playing and creative arrangements. He is a keyboard player of choice for the likes of Alan Barnes, Mike Outram, Brandon Allen and Greg Abate, and has played at some of the most iconic venues in the country, including Ronnie Scott’s, the 606 Jazz Club, the 100 Club and The Vortex. Leigh Coleman is not known as ‘Soulman Coleman’ for nothing! He’s worked with Joss Stone, Beverley Knight and the legendary Betty Wright in the US and is a fine soul singer. Last year, together with Matt, he delivered one of the Jazz Jurassica festival’s most memorable shows with a vibrant and passionate tribute to Stevie Wonder. They’re joined on bass and drums by Seth Tackaberry and Luca Caruso. Seth is the only electric bass player ever to make the finals of BBC Young Jazz Musician of the Year in 2018. He has also worked with Cory Wong (Vulfpeck), Caleb Hawley, and Hamish Stuart. Rising star Luca has performed with internationally world-renowned jazz musicians including Wayne Escoffery, Joe Sanders and Etienne Charles. Advance tickets for this not-to-be-missed musical events cost £14, with the bar opening at 6pm for a 7pm start. Gnora the Gnome’s Daytime Disco will keep the kids entertained on Thursday, September 10. Gnora the gnome, and her brothers
THE HandleBards theatre group will host Gnora the Gnome’s Daytime Disco as well as a production of ‘Romeo & Juliet’. Right, Folksy Theatre will present ‘The Taming of the Shrew’
Gnorman and Gneville, have all been stuck underground for months. Now that they can get back outdoors they’re going to have a disco to celebrate – and you’re invited! With smash disco hits and lots of dancing bits, Gnora the Gnome’s Daytime Disco is fun for all the family, so come and join us outside the Marine Theatre for a boogie, hosted by the HandleBards theatre group. The disco starts at 4.30pm with the bar opening from 4pm. Tickets cost £12 per child with each child allowed one free adult to accompany them. Additional adults should purchase a separate ticket. Later that evening, the HandleBards will be hosting thier production of Shakespeare’s ‘Romeo & Juliet’ - but this comical version is no normal rendition of the romantic tragedy. With music, mayhem and more costume changes than you can shake a spear at, expect the HandleBards’ usual irreverent, charming and hilarious style to come bursting onto Theatre Square. Forget the tears and tragedy, pack a picnic and get ready for some socially-distanced, live and wired Shakespeare as you’ve never seen it before. The bar will open at 6pm for this 7pm show. Tickets cost £17 for adults, £9 for under 18s and £5 for recipients of JSA, ESA or PIP. One free child under 10 is permitted with each adult ticket purchased. Full details and tickets for all the above events are available at www.marinetheatre.com or call 0333 666 3366 to book. All tickets are for unreserved seating - and don’t forget to wrap up and warm and bring along a blanket! The Marine Theatre has not yet announced when it will be reopening for indoor events. Although live indoor theatre was given the go ahead from August 1, the theatre has said that operating under social distancing guidelines will cut its audiences by two thirds and will make many performances financially unviable. As a result, the Marine is reviewing costs and raising money, while looking forward to the lifting of restrictions that will make live performances more viable in the historic building. Members of the public have been donating to a reopening fund, details of which are on the website www.marinetheatre.com/reopen-the-marinetheatre-fund/. So far, just over £5,000 has been raised towards the theatre’s target of £21,000. Theatre director Gabby Rabbitts said: “We are working hard to raise funds and reduce costs, so we are confident that we will open again in the coming months. “Like everyone, we are in an evolving situation where public safety is a priority and restrictions are out of our control. That makes it hard to predict a reopening date. “I’d like to personally thank all those that have donated to our reopening fund, which is really helping us. “Better times will come when we can welcome our volunteers and audiences back to enjoy music, comedy, and other performances, along with all the wonderful socialising that comes with those things.”
MATT Carter will return to the Marine Theatre for an outside performance alongside Leigh Coleman (inset), Seth Tackaberry and Luca Caruso
WHAT’S ON IN LYME REGIS? As local events begin to start up again, the LymeOnline website has relaunched its What’s On section What’s On listings are free for non-profit and charity events, so if you have something coming up please get in touch and we will add it to our diary! Send your What’s On listings to edit@lyme-online.co.uk
Find the latest local events at www.lyme-online.co.uk/events
24 Friday, August 7 2020
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WE ARE DELIGHTED TO BE OPEN AGAIN Thank you for your continued support
Please book online at www.thepilotboat.co.uk
to ensure your table is reserved Food served all day 9am to 9pm We are committed to providing a safe environment for our customers and staff 1 Bridge Street, Lyme Regis – 01297 443157 info@thepilotboat.co.uk
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At the heart of y t i n u m m o c e h t Our vegan supper raised £1,200 for The Word Forest Organisation
Save the Children have raised hund
A pizza night raised more than £900 for Cancer Research UK
reds at events at the Pilot Boat
and ready to support Lyme as it gets back on its feet!
Get in touch to discuss how we can help any charity events at the Pilot Boat 1 Bridge Street, Lyme Regis DT7 3QA – 01297 443157
26 Friday, August 7 2020
thegreenpage
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Charity launches #TreeMendUs ethical shop AS part of its ongoing campaign to plant trees and fight climate change, Lyme Regis-based charity The Word Forest Organisation has launched an online shop of ethical and sustainable merchandise. The shop includes men’s, women’s and baby clothing, as well as a range of eco-friendly accessories – everything from shopping bags to flasks and mugs. Money raised from the sale of the new #TreeMendUs line of merchandise will go towards planting more trees in Kenya, which will have the biggest effect in tackling the effects of climate change as they grow quickly in tropical conditions near the equator. Research released by Fashion Retail Academy in March 2020 reveals that there has been a large shift in shopping habits in the UK, with millions more choosing quality over quantity. Findings show that 51.4 per cent of British people are choosing long-lasting clothes over cheaper fashionable items, up 33.8 per cent on a year ago. Due to the devastating effects of fast fashion on the environment The Word Forest Organisation is offering a slow fashion alternative with its new fundraising campaign #TreeMendUs. Tracey West, CEO of the reforestation charity, said: “We would like to see people invest in these pieces for the long term which will enable us to invest in the health
and wellbeing of our planet and its people. “Our organic cotton tee shirts are amazing; cherish them, wear them and mend them until the end of their lives. Then, send them back to our suppliers at Teemill, based on the Isle of Wight, and they’ll turn them into another tee shirt, called a remill!” Simon West, chairman of trustees, added: “The charity has risen to the challenges of 2020, and thanks to our talented volunteers working remotely all over the country, we now have a wonderful set of ethical products. ‘For every product sold we will plant a tree. We need your support. Our planet needs your support, help us spread the word!” The Lyme Regis charity is asking everyone to be #TreeMendUs and support their campaign to plant trees and mend the planet. The tree planters they’re working with in rural Kenya are living on the front line of climate change; they are some of the people most impacted by rising temperatures and extreme weather events. The trees are a vital lifeline, providing food, medicine and other resources which help the community lift itself out of poverty too. Visit WordForest.org/shop to make your environmental investment in a Word Forest T-shirt and wear it with eco-pride.
‘Slam Dunk the Junk’ and keep our beaches clean! LITTER Free Coast and Sea has co-ordinated a coast-wide campaign with most of Dorset’s resort beaches calling for visitors to ‘Slam Dunk the Junk’. There have been more reports of littering and aggressive behaviour since lockdown measures were eased, so it is hoped that new banners displayed at beaches, including Lyme Regis, and posters for local takeaway food outlets can help. Litter Free Coast and Sea is a partnership initiative, hosted by Dorset Coast Forum, that has been running since 2012. It has experience in designing effective campaigns based on well-researched behavioural change psychology theory, in conjunction with community groups, landowners and the target audience. Matilda Manley from Litter Free Coast and Sea explained the theory behind the campaign messaging: “Slam Dunk the Junk is fun and non preachy. No one likes being told of or told what to do, especially at this time when there are so many rules to follow for social distancing, etc. “We have designed the artwork to be liked
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by adults and children alike – children are great influencers so if we can get them to like it, they can make sure their parents are following the message! “Some of the banners use the messaging ‘Most people who visit this beach use the bin or take their litter home. Will you?’ Research shows that people don’t change behaviour based on rational persuasion; they change to conform to those around them. “People are like sheep; we subconsciously copy what others are doing. This is why we have to highlight all the people that do put their litter in the bin or take it home, not those that do not in our campaign messaging. “Some of the banners also say ‘We love Weymouth Beach’, for example. This is another technique we want to utilise because it helps builds pride of place. “By showing visitors to our beaches that there are people here who love it and care for it, research shows that beach-goers will be more inclined to show respect for that beach. “The campaign was designed with local graphic designer Rowena Taylor, West Bay Community Forum, #5thingsclear, Litter Free coast and Sea volunteers, town councils, beach managers and landowners up and down the coast. It was a real collaborative effort.” Some Dorset beaches have seen an increase in late night beach use and overflowing bins recently so Litter Free Coast and Sea have designed bin stickers that ask, ‘If this bin is full, please take your litter home’. When asked about the issue of overflowing bins, Matilda explained: “Many people ask why bins cannot be emptied later in the
evenings and we have asked the same questions. The problem is that waste collected has to be delivered to waste transfer stations and these places are not open 24 hours. “Plus, on most of Dorset’s resort beaches the bins are emptied throughout the day from 6 am to 7 pm so these guys do need to go home and rest at some point!” The ‘Slam Dunk The Junk’ campaign is one of several schemes currently being run by Litter Free Coast and Sea and Litter Free Dorset in an effort to keep the county clean and tidy as more people choose a ‘staycation’ in the South West rather than a summer holiday abroad. Litter Free Dorset has also launched a ‘Don’t Be A Tos53r’ campaign, encouraging visitors to the area to take their litter home with them, and boat users are also being
asked to help keep our seas clean by ‘flushing responsibly’ when using a toilet on board boats as part of the #LoveYourHarbour campaign. Sarah Spurling from Litter Free Coast and Sea explained: “We want to thank all those boaters and sailors who show their love for our harbour and use onshore toilets, install a holding tank, use sewage pump out facilities or, if they can’t do any of these, wait to flush at least three nautical miles offshore. “Discharging untreated sewage from a boat in a harbour is extremely damaging and antisocial. It can create all kinds of problems and costs, from water quality to cleaning issues.” For more information on Litter Free Coast and Sea’s campaigns, visit www.litterfreecoastandsea.co.uk
Lyme Regis is proud to be a leading town in eco-friendly initiatives
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Tales From Lyme’s Past
A glimpse of our history with Peter Lacey The Town Hall 1555-1887 WITHOUT doubt the most imposing building in the town is the Victorian Guildhall, designed by George Vialls and built in 1887-88. However, the blue plaque on the building states incorrectly that the building stands on the site of an earlier Elizabethan (16th century) town hall. The Elizabethan theory has been seen as fact for a very long time and various historians have ascribed to this fallacy. The exception being the founder and first curator of the museum V.W. Wingrave, who identified the site as being adjacent to Gosling Bridge in Coombe Street. Wingrave, however, did not provide any evidence, therefore Wanklyn and Fowles among others rejected his claim. In 2002, while researching my book on Elizabethan Lyme Regis, I found the evidence to support Wingrave’s assertion. The mayor’s accounts for 1515 clearly record that the Elizabethan town hall was “in the Millhill or pit by the mill” it being close to Pawlmers Mill at Millgreen and Gosling Bridge. In 1612 the building was in need of repair and, once again, the mayor’s accounts record “a sum of £30 (estimated at £4,000 today) for the improvement and repair of the town hall in the Millhill, the store house being taken in”. Gosling Bridge was on the town’s main thoroughfare, historically known as the ‘Kings Highway’. It was the main way in and out of the town and therefore an appropriate site for the
town’s legislative and judicial building. So when did a town hall exist on the site of the present Guildhall? The Siege of Lyme (1644) during the Civil War saw Gaiche’s Fort, a defensive earthen structure built close to the town hall. Millgreen came under heavy fire from a Royalist battery situated on the hilly slope above Gosling Bridge. Records show that many of the wooden and thatched buildings in the town were burnt (fire arrows) or damaged (cannon balls) during the siege. It is probable that the town hall was one of the buildings so damaged and hence the need to replace it. The accounts for 1647-63 indicate a sum equivalent to £2,000 being spent on repairs and alterations to the town hall. It included building a new gallery and stairs, itemised was ‘clensing and fitting ye Town Armes.’ The work refers to a building close to Gun Cliff, the records make no mention building a new town hall. We need to consider the strong possibility that it was a conversion of an existing building. The photograph above circa 1860 depicts a shabby building more akin to a warehouse (which it may well have been) than a town hall. It
matches a description of that period which describes it as ‘a dingy cottage worth about £ 10 a year and dignified by the name of town hall.’ The Elizabethan, and the later building, are recorded in the archives as being the Town Hall, both Roberts and Wanklyn use the same terminology. The grand building we have today, needed a name to match its appearance and so in true Victorian manner they designated it as a Guildhall. The blue plaque also makes a misleading reference to Sir George Somers, it needs to refer to the Western Rebellion and the Duke of Monmouth’s Proclamation (1685) made outside the 17th century town hall. Peter Lacey Author and historian
Bermudian statue of Sir George given more prominent position A STATUE of a former Mayor of Lyme Regis, Admiral Sir George Somers, is being moved to a more prominent position in St George’s, Bermuda, despite recent controversies surrounding his character. Residents of Lyme’s twin town St George’s panicked when the statue was removed, thinking it had been targeted by protestors, but it was actually taken down to be moved to a more central location by the local council. The statue of Lyme’s former mayor - who founded Bermuda after being shipwrecked on the islands in 1609 on his way to the new English colony of Jamestown, Virginia - has stood on Ordnance Island in St George’s since 1984. Questions have recently been raised about the importance placed on Sir George in Bermuda’s history, in light of anti-racism protests across the globe sparked by the death of George Floyd in America. Sir George’s legacy was revisited after Progressive Labour Party MPs Rolfe Commissiong and Christopher Famous said his arrival in Bermuda, which led to the island’s permanent British settlement, had been an accidental aside of a mission to bolster Britain’s Jamestown colony. Somers Day, which was celebrated as part of Bermuda’s biggest annual event, Cup Match, was this year changed to honour Mary Prince, Bermuda’s world-renowned former slave, whose book documenting the horrors of enslavement boosted the abolitionist movement in Britain. A more modern statue of Sir George, which stands in Langmoor Gardens, Lyme Regis, was targeted by vandals in June when the word ‘murderer’ was scrawled across an
THE bronze statue of Sir George in Bermuda is quite different in appearance to that in Lyme Regis information board next to it. The statue was also added to list of monuments on the anti-racism campaign website ‘Topple the Racists’. The incident followed the toppling of a statue of Edward Colston, a prominent slave trader, in Bristol. The Lyme Regis/St George’s Twinning Association and local historian Peter Lacey, whose book ‘Elizabethan Lyme’ included a section on Sir George, remain adamant that he was not involved in the slave trade, but others have criticised his role in colonising America. A member of staff at the Corporation of St George confirmed that there had been a flood of calls from people worried by the Bermudian statue’s disappearance. He added that the local authority had already put out statements on its plans to renovate Ordnance Island and give the bronze statue a more eye-catching location on the area’s roundabout.
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FLASHBACKS with Richard Austin
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Tales from behind the lens of our award-winning photographer
■ THERE were gasps of surprise when Princess Diana emerged from the royal car as she arrived in Tiverton. It was her new hair style that was noticed by Diana’s army of royal fanatics. I was part of the Royal Rota of bona-fide photographers on the day and photographing Diana was always a big occasion, no matter where she turned up she would be on most newspaper pages the following day. If she was having personal problems at home she certainly didn’t show it as she got very close to her adoring fans, accepting bouquets of flowers from young and old. It’s hard to imagine her tragic death was 23 years ago this month.
Health board to respond to any peak in COVID cases A NEW COVID Health Protection Board will monitor for and respond to any potential coronavirus outbreaks in Dorset. Sam Crowe, director of Public Health for Dorset and Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP) councils, will chair the board, which will look at the number of cases in the county and where they are, monitoring for any rises and patterns. The director of Public Health is also responsible for managing local outbreak management plans for both council areas, which set out how local agencies will identify, respond to and contain any local outbreaks. He said: “It’s really important that we use this time to prepare for the future. Our outbreak management plans are crucial as we start to see society get going again. The Health
Protection Board will ensure everyone knows exactly what they need to do if we start to see a rise in cases or outbreaks in particular settings.” The COVID Health Protection Board will work closely with businesses and organisations in various sectors such as care, tourism, hospitality and manufacturing to make sure preventative measures are in place to keep the public safe. Environmental Health Officers from BCP and Dorset Councils have been advising local businesses, including shops, cafes and salons, on how to reopen safely in line with government guidance. Health and Wellbeing Boards for each council area oversee the local outbreak management plans, and are made up of representatives from all local public sector agencies involved in the response to COVID-19, as well as colleagues from the
community and voluntary sector. The Health and Wellbeing Boards work alongside Dorset’s COVID Health Protection Board. They give political oversight of the delivery of the local outbreak management plans and have a lead role in community engagement. Cllr Vikki Slade, leader of BCP Council, said: “It’s vital our communities have confidence we will protect them in the event of a rise in cases. With community representatives on the board we can not only reassure local people but involve them too, and that is absolutely crucial.” Cllr Spencer Flower, leader of Dorset Council, added: “Dorset’s Health Protection Board will ensure that everything possible is being done to prevent, monitor and respond to any local COVID-19 outbreaks. I hope this gives reassurance to local residents and communities.”
If you have a story for LymeOnline, call 07810 221 420 or email edit@lyme-online.co.uk
local services
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ITEMS FOR SALE
WE ARE NOW ACCEPTING ITEMS FOR SALE AGAIN SEE PANEL ON RIGHT FOR DETAILS OF HOW TO SUBMIT YOUR LISTINGS SCHOOL TROUSERS, grey, brand new, 32” W, 29” L, cost £14 but selling for £10 - 01297 443930.
LOCAL BOOK, ‘A History of Axminster to 1910’, Geoffrey Chapman, 1998, like new and scarce, £15 01297 442627.
PLANTA FOR SALE, hydrangeas only £4 each, lavender £3, also fresh vegetables daily - 01297 443930.
PURPLE RUG, IKEA ‘Stoense’ low pile, 133cm x 195cm, in perfect condition, £15 - 07397 206 365.
MEN’S SHIRT, Marks & Spencer, brand new, green check, size XXL, paid £1950 but selling for £10 - 01297 443930.
VENETIAN BLIND, Marco wooden venetian blind, 180cm width x 160cm depth, basswood natural colour, new and still in box, £20 - 01297 443461.
CORDLESS HEDGE TRIMMER, Bosch 41ACCU, without battery or charger, 14.4v, blade length 41cm, £14 - 07947 918 335. ‘BEAUTIFUL HOMELAND’, set of 6 books, first edition, 1920, illustrated in colour, by E.W. Haslehurst, £180 or £35 each - 01297 506707. RYOBI electric sucker/blower, almost new, £30 - 01297 445376. TACK LIFE electric submersible water pump, £25 - 01297 445376. GARDEN GROOM PRO safety hedge cutter, shreds and collects, £30 - 01297 445376. AL-KO petrol mower, £60 - 01297 445376. ASH Hoover, £15 - 01297 445376. CONFIDENCE FITNESS Power Plus Treadmill, £60 - 01297 445376. LADDERS, various sizes and prices - 01297 445376.
ITEMS TO SELL?
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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.
NEST OF 3 TABLES, Queen Ann style, legs solid wood, offers welcome - 01297 561512. BOOKCASE, veneer rosewood, 94cm length x 90cm width x 28cm depth, buyer collects from Charmouth, offers welcome - 01297 561512. LOCAL BOOK, ‘Branch Line to Lyme Regis, Mitchell & Smith, Middleton Press 1993, in new condition, £12 01297 442627. LOCAL BOOK, ‘Lyme Worthies’ by John Fowles, portraits by Gavin Bird, limited issue of 1,000 copies, beautiful condition, £6 - 01297 442627. GAS COOKER, Stoves 4 ring gas cooker, buyer collects from Lyme Regis, £75 - 01297 445091. MEN’S SHIRTS, brand new from Marks & Spencer, pure cotton, green checked, XXL, paid £19.50, selling for £12 - 07973 349 717.
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Send this form to: Items For Sale, LymeOnline, Unit 5, Uplyme Business Centre, Uplyme Road, Lyme Regis, Dorset DT7 3LS
PUBLIC NOTICE Notice is given that Robin Wylde Limited has applied to Dorset Council for a new premises licence in respect of 63a Silver Street Lyme Regis Dorset DT7 3HR For the provision of alcohol generally between the hours of 12:00-15:00 and 18:00-23:00 on Tuesday to Saturday. Any interested party or responsible authority may make representations in writing to, The Licensing Section, Dorset Council, South Walks House, South Walks Road, Dorchester, Dorset, DT1 1UZ within 28 days from the date of this notice.
HARBOUR INN
The licensing register and details of this application may be inspected during normal office hours at the above address, or online at www.dorsetforyou.gov.uk
Vacancies currently available for:
It is an offence under Section 158 of the Licensing Act 2003 to knowingly or recklessly make a false statement in connection with an application and the maximum fine for which a person is liable on summary conviction for the offence is a fine not exceeding level 5 on the standard scale (£5000). DATE: 31 July 2020
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LymeOnline Sport
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football
Charmouth withdraw from Perry Street League FOOTBALL followers in and around Lyme Regis will be saddened by the news that Charmouth Football Club will not be entering a team in the Perry Street League this coming season.
An announcement was made on social media this week stating that with new restrictions and guidelines due to COVID-19, and a lack of players, the club felt it could not proceed with a team this year. The village club was formed in the early 1900s and one of their first games was against Lyme Rovers who won 5-2. Charmouth – nicknamed The Robins – fielded a first and reserve team for many years and played in a number of leagues, including the Axe Vale League from 1936 to 1939 and the Dorset League. However, they have played most of their football in the Perry Street League.
PHILIP EVANS
philip@lyme-online.co.uk Charmouth holds the highest score in a Perry Street League match with a 32-0 win over Stockland, in which Colin Bowditch, one of the most dangerous strikers of his era, scored a record 16 goals in a single game, a record which still stands today. Over the years a number of Lyme players travelled over the hill to play for Charmouth including Keith Wiscombe, Graham Gay, Ginger Bartlett, Johnny Evans, Paul Viney, Stan Williams, Pete Kirkman Graham Vere, Steve Wiscombe, Dave Reed, Alan Reynolds, Joe O’Donnell, Brian Turvey, Johnny Solway, Pete Greenwood, David Hercock and Roy and Terry Guppy from Uplyme. When I started reporting on football for the Lyme Regis News whilst still a schoolboy I cov-
ered a match, I think it was against Norton, when all 22 players went to fight in the centre circle, a commotion which was started by Graham Gay, the smallest player on the field. The Lyme players were always treated to generous hospitality after a game, especially from committee man Tom Stamp who would rarely let them back over the hill without having a few drinks at his house. The Perry Street League has also announced on its Facebook page that Winsham United has withdrawn both their teams. The club had been in existence for 125 years and had won virtually every trophy down the years. The League Management Committee said they were “greatly saddened” by the news and paid tribute to all those who had worked hard over the years. It was hoped that their absence would be temporary.
Harvey’s Allstars to take on the Talbot A CRICKET friendly organised by Uplyme & Lyme Regis player Harvey Brimicombe will see several local lads more accustomed to the football pitch make their debut between the stumps. The Talbot Arms’ cricket team, whose players include several teachers from The Woodroffe School, and who beat Uplyme by 20 runs in a friendly this week, will take on Harvey’s ‘Allstars’ on Monday, August 17 at the King George V playing field, starting at 6pm. Allstars team members will include James Bond, Imran Chowdhury, Ali Trueman, Tyler Wellman, Paul Barlow, Charlie Prendeville, Dan Prendeville, Jake Sargent, Jon Davies and Sam Pollard-Jones, many of whom will be making their cricketing debut for the event. The cricket club bar will be open and all are welcome.
bowls
Bowlers return with open pairs competition AN open pairs competition has been staged at Lyme Regis Bowling Club over the past four weeks, with the winning pair from both sections going forward to a final. The club introduced stringent COVID-19 measures in order to facilitate the running of these games, including no handling of the jack; mats to be placed by one nominated lead only, and likewise with the pushers; thorough cleaning of all equipment before and after games by one player; plus normal social distancing measures throughout the game. The final of this competition was between husband and wife team Simon and Helen Dowling and Richard Cridge and Mick Heneghan. The start of the game was very edgy with both Mick and Simon finding things difficult. Helen was quickly into her stride with Richard keeping his side in the game with some good backend play.
Gradually, Simon lost his nerves and played himself into the game. He and Helen slowly pulled away, helped by a 4-count, to win by a margin of 16-8. The game was watched by 38 club members, which proved a very pleasing turnout for an entertaining game. The players were presented with certificates by club President Alan Nabarro who thanked everyone for coming and gave special thanks to Ann Allman who arranged and organised the competition. Buoyed by the success of this competition, Ann has organised three more – a mens’ and ladies’ pairs plus Aussie Pairs. Some 48 members have made themselves available for these games for which we owe Ann our gratitude. Whilst a lot of clubs have been languishing in the shadows of coronavirus, Lyme, through Ann and the executive committee, have been able to rescue something from a wrecked season.
SOME of the competitors with club president Alan Nabarro
SIMON and Helen Dowling and Richard Cridge and Mick Heneghan
THE players celebrate with a playful elbow touch in line with COVID restrictions
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LymeOnline Sport
32 Friday, August 7 2020
August 7 2020
cricket
TYLER WRITES HIMSELF INTO CRICKET FOLKLORE UPLYME BATSMAN HITS TWO CONSECUTIVE CENTURIES IN-FORM Uplyme and Lyme Regis batsman Tyler Wellman claimed his place in local cricketing folklore on Saturday when he hit his second successive undefeated century.
Tyler hit his third ton for Uplyme when he smashed the 100th run off the last ball of the innings in the first Devon Mini-League match at home to Ottery St Mary 2nds. And in the second, away to Axminster, he did it again, carrying his bat for 102 not out, a swashbuckling innings which included 16 fours. It is believed that this was
TYLER WELLMAN pictured when he scored his second century for Uplyme last season. Now he has four to his name
the first time in Uplyme’s long history that a player had hit a century in consecutive games. Uplyme won the toss and decided to bat, losing three quick wickets with just 44 runs on the board. But when Wellman was joined by No 4 Joe Elsworth, the Axminster attack took a real caning with Elsworth falling just three runs short of his first century for Uplyme when he was run out. Wellman was still at the crease with 102 runs to his name with the score on 256-4 when the final over of the innings was bowled. Opening Steve Batey, who is also in good nick, looked set for another big score after hitting two mammoth sixes at Cloakham Lawn before being caught on 24 by Bradley Conway off the bowling of Robin Ellis, who finished with two wickets for the loss of 28 runs off seven overs. In reply, Axminster were bowled out in 19.5 overs for just 48 runs, Daniel Murnane (11) being the only batsmen to get into double figures. Uplyme’s bowlers rose to the occasion with Steve Batey leading the attack with figures of 3-7 off just 2.5 overs, well supported by Jibu Varghese (3-11 off seven overs), Sam Farrow (2-3 off two overs) and David Matthews (1-1-20 off five overs). Uplyme & Lyme Regis 20 points; Axminster Town 3 points. This victory puts Uplyme firmly at the top of the East E 3 (Tier 5) table with 36
points, ten ahead of Honiton. Tomorrow (August 8) Uplyme are at home to Honiton (1pm start), a fixture which might well decide who goes into the knock-out rounds in September from this division. ● Tyler is part of the Wellman sporting dynasty. His uncle Derek, a talented footballer and cricketer, is currently club secretary at Uplyme. Cousins Steve and Mark Batey also play for both football and cricket clubs with Steve being the chairman of Uplyme CC and captain. Tyler’s dad Roger played football for Lyme, as did his grandad, Brian, and great uncle Alan.
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Uplyme & Lyme Regis Cricket Club Saturday, August 8, 1pm start - Uplyme & Lyme Regis v Honiton
Sunday X1 lose to touring side AFTER the excitement of winning their first Devon Cricket mini-league match – a game that saw Tyler Wellman hit his 100th run off the last ball of the game – Uplyme and Lyme Regis’ Sunday side welcomed the Four Counties touring side to the King George V playing field. The visitors batted first for 232-6 off 35 overs, the main damage being caused by Ward (79 retired not out) and Wooley (50). Josh Thomas was Uplyme’s best bowler, finishing with 2-23. In reply, Uplyme just failed to hit a winning score, finishing their 35 overs with 209 runs on the board with good knocks coming from Steven Batey (44 not out), Joel Seward (37) and Jacob Maltby.
Palmers get the beers in!
TYLER WELLMAN receives his man-of-the-match award from Dr Jibu Varghese of sponsors Skin Care & Surgery Ltd, with clinics in Dorchester, Yeovil and Taunton
Uplyme get off to good start in new Devon mini-league UPLYME and Lyme Regis made an impressive start to their new Devon League E East 3 mini-league campaign with a comprehensive victory over Ottery St Mary 2nds at the King George V playing field. Their first game in the coronavirusdelayed 2020 season was rain affected with the start being delayed by two hours with the overs being reduced to 30. Ottery won the toss and put Uplyme into bat, claiming two quick wickets, opener Alfie Jacques falling with just one run to his name and Number 2 Joe Elsworth failing to trouble the scorers. But then Tyler Wellman joined his cousin and opening bat Steve Batey
who in a scintillating partnership of 177, took the score to 206-2 with Wellman, who was in intimidating form, reaching his third century for Uplyme, hitting his 100th run of the very last ball of the innings. Batey carried his bat for 82, a true skipper’s innings. Ottery tried another six bowlers to try and break the partnership but after Luke Tierney and Freddie Elu-Barker claimed the early Uplyme wickets. In reply, Ottery scored 85 for the loss three wickets off 20 overs before the rain returned, the score being adjusted to 155 giving Uplyme a 121-victory. Steve Batey, Harvey Brimicombe and Dave Matthews shared the wickets with one apiece.
UPLYME and Lyme Regis featured in a low-scoring game against Palmers Brewery from Bridport at the King George V playing field. Palmers restricted Uplyme to a low total of 103 all out with top scores coming from Charlie Moss (20), Joel Seward (32) and Tyler Wellman (23). Best bowlers for Palmers were F. Etherington who finished with figures of 5-15 and W. Frost (2-10). Uplyme fielded superbly with Matt James, Jacob Maltby and Dan Thomas excelling and Palmers were bowled out for 81 with Ben Whittington and I. Hutchings top scoring on 18 apiece. Matt James (3-23) and Joel Seward (313) returned the best bowling figures for Uplyme. The game was sponsored by Dr Varghese Skin Care & Surgery Ltd with clinics in Dorchester, Yeovil and Taunton.
Bowlers back in action LYME Regis bowlers are back in action having played an open pairs competition at the Charlie Mercer Green on Monmouth Beach. For full story and photos turn to page 31
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