LymeOnline Digital Edition - December 20 2019

Merry Christmas and a happy New Year to all!

FESTIVE PHOTO SPECIAL ON PAGES 12-15

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Conservatives hold West Dorset with record vote

THE Conservatives held on to the West Dorset seat in last week’s General Election.

New candidate Chris Loder won the constituency seat with 33,589 votes – a majority of 14,106 and the largest ever number of Conservative votes seen in the constituency.

Liberal Democrat Edward Morello came second with 19,483, Labour candidate Claudia Sorin third with 5,729 and Green Party candidate Kelvin Clayton received 2,124 votes.

The turnout in West Dorset was 74.4 per cent.

REPORT, PAGE 3

Legacy funding to honour Mary KEY Stage 1 children from St Michael’s Primary School in Lyme Regis performed their traditional nativity play for proud parents and family members this week, before breaking up for the Christmas holidays. See pages 12, 13, 14 and 15 for more festive photos from Lyme Regis and Charmouth.

Row over TIC’s future COUNCILS BLAME ONE ANOTHER FOR POTENTIAL CLOSURE

LYME Regis Tourist Information Centre (TIC) is under threat of closure, with the town and Dorset councils clashing this week over who is to blame.

The TIC is operated by Dorset Council but housed in Guildhall Cottage in Bridge Street, which is owned by Lyme Regis Town Council.

Dorset Council this week

FRANCESCA EVANS

francesca@lyme-online.co.uk

launched a public consultation to consider options for the service’s future, including its “preferred option” to close the facility, implying that this was due to the town council’s decision not to renew the lease for the TIC. The town council agreed last year not to renew the lease for the TIC and instead take over the

ground floor space at Guildhall Cottage to expand its own offices, as part of a major refurbishment project. Notice was served in September with the initial intention that the TIC would vacate the premises by March 31 2020, which has since been extended to July 2020.

However, the town council has argued that its decision to terminate the lease is not the reason behind the potential closure of

the TIC. Town clerk John Wright explained that the town council had been in discussion with the now defunct West Dorset District Council for over four years with a view to taking on responsibility for the TIC. But when the new unitary Dorset Council took over district councils in April 2019, it decided not to persue these negoCONTINUED ON PAGE 2

THREE projects in memory of Lyme Regis’ most famous daughter, fossil hunter Mary Anning, are to benefit from £15,000 grant funding.

The money was donated to the town by production company Fossil Films Ltd after they filmed scenes for ‘Ammonite’, starring Oscar-winning actress Kate Winslet as Anning, in the town earlier this year.

Eight local organisations applied to Lyme Regis Town Council for the funds, with Axminster & Lyme Cancer Support, Mary Anning Rocks and the Mary Anning Scholarship Fund being successful.

REPORT, PAGE 20

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LymeOnline

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 Mark Vandeweyer, Citizens Advice Peter Lacey, Tales of Lyme’s Past Production: Jackie Evans jackie@lyme-online.co.uk

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Dorset Council launch public consultation on future of Tourist Information Centre CONTINUED FROM FRONT PAGE tiations further.

Mr Wright said it was only after these discussions broke down that the town council agreed not to renew the lease, adding that representatives from Dorset Council had since failed to attend any scheduled meetings to re-open discussions on the service’s future.

In its consultation document launched on Monday, Dorset Council said: “Whilst the TIC does generate some income, it is costing the council approximately £87,000 in funding this year to support the service and this cost is increasing each year. Dorset Council must prioritise where it spends its money.”

It added that it had already considered and dismissed the option of retaining the service as it is, saying this was “not a viable option” because the town council planned to re-occupy the space.

Dorset Council has also dismissed the possibility of moving the service to a different site in Lyme Regis because “no suitable alternative locations have been identified”.

It said the town council was open to creating an integrated information service within its redesigned offices, but Dorset Council was “not in a position to commit funding on a long-term or permanent basis to the town council for this function”.

Instead, Dorset Council is now seeking the views of the public on three possible options: 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 is the council’s preferred option.

Option 2 - Close the TIC and provide a selfservice capability e.g. touch screen terminal.

Option 3 - Consider the provision through

another delivery model e.g. voluntary sector.

Cllr Tony Alford, portfolio holder for Customer, Community and Regulatory Services, said: “We want to hear from local residents, businesses, organisations and visitors to Lyme Regis about how any changes to the current TIC service would affect them.

“Evidence tells us the nature of visitor information demand is changing and therefore the overall demand for the services the TIC provides is falling. Dorset Council currently spends approximately £90,000 a year to subsidise the TIC. “We’ll continue to support Dorset’s tourism sector with the Visit Dorset website to reflect the changing nature of how people access visitor information. I would encourage everyone who has a view to have their say by completing the survey.”

In response to Dorset Council launching its public consultation, town clerk John Wright said: “There is a clear implication from Dorset Council that the potential closure of the tourist information centre has been caused by the town council serving notice on Dorset Council to vacate the premises; this is not the case.

“For over four years, the town council had been talking to Dorset Council’s predecessor West Dorset District Council about how to secure the future of the TIC, alongside discussions about other public services in Lyme Regis.

“Unfortunately, Dorset Council chose not to pursue these discussions. Historically, West Dorset District Council had indicated its intention to no longer run the service in Lyme Regis; this is consistent with its decisions about TICs in other West Dorset towns “It was only after the breakdown of discussions that the town council took the decision

to serve notice on Dorset Council to vacate the premises. This decision was informed by the town council’s need for additional space and to provide ground floor access.

“Since the decision to serve notice, Dorset Council has approached the town council to re-open discussions about the TIC. However, Dorset Council representatives have failed to attend any of the agreed meetings.

“Dorset Council then wrote to the town council to say it was ‘minded to’ close the TIC and would be starting a consultation process.

Dorset Council also requested an extension of the TIC lease until July 2020 while the consultation takes place.

“The town council not only agreed to the extension, but also offered a further extension until 31 August 2020 to allow Dorset Council additional time; this offer has not yet been acknowledged.

“The town council is prepared to work with Dorset Council to find an alternative location for the TIC.” The public consultation will run until Monday, February 10 and can be found online at www.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/lymeregistic.

Printed copies are also available by calling 01305 225000 or you can collect one in person at the TIC or Lyme Regis Library.

Two drop-in sessions have been scheduled at the Woodmead Halls in Lyme Regis, where Cllr Alford will be available to answer any questions, along with officers from Dorset Council.

A drop-in session for businesses will be held on Tuesday, January 14 from 2pm to 4pm, and for members of the public on Wednesday, January 22 from 10am to 12noon.

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Conservatives win West Dorset seat with record number of votes THE Conservatives held on to the West Dorset seat in last week’s General Election.

New candidate Chris Loder won the constituency seat with 33,589 votes – a majority of 14,106 and the largest ever number of Conservative votes seen in the constituency.

Liberal Democrat Edward Morello came second with 19,483, Labour candidate Claudia Sorin third with 5,729 and Green Party candidate Kelvin Clayton received 2,124 votes.

The turnout in West Dorset was 74.4 per cent.

Mr Loder, 38, is a fourth generation farmer from Sherborne who started a career on the railways aged 18, later progressing to lead a team of 300 running the UK's best performing train company.

Commenting on Twitter after the results were announced in Weymouth in the early hours of Friday morning, Mr Loder said: “I’m very proud and humbled to be elected Member of Parliament for West Dorset, with the largest ever Conservative vote in the constituency.”

He later issued a statement which added: “My priorities are three-fold: 1) to deliver the democratic will and get Brexit done; 2) to be a voice for the needs of our

rural communities; and 3) to champion farming in Westminster on behalf of the nation.

“The result is a very clear statement from the people of West Dorset that they want the democratic will delivered. On Monday, I shall go to Westminster with that priority in hand and look forward to being a strong voice on behalf of the local communities I represent.”

Mr Loder’s record vote came as the Conservatives swept the country, winning their biggest majority since 1987.

In the Tiverton & Honiton constituency, which includes neighbouring villages and towns such as Uplyme and Axminster, Conservative Neil Parish held on to his seat with 35,893 votes, a majority of 24,239.

In East Devon, new Conservative candidate Simon Jupp, taking over from Hugo Swire, won with 32,577 votes, a majority of 6,708.

This was despite a strong campaign led by independent candidate Claire Wright, who polled 25,869, which even brought actor and political campaigner Hugh Grant to Sidmouth last week, encouraging residents to vote for her.

WEST Dorset’s new Conservative MP Chris Loder pictured in Lyme Regis

Town council to review social media policy to tackle ‘fake news’ LYME Regis Town Council will review its social media policy in a bid to tackle false information shared online.

Raising the issue on Wednesday night’s meeting, Councillor Belinda Bawden said she felt the council should be more proactive in correcting false information and statements made by residents on various local Facebook pages.

The town council often comes under criticism for its decisions on

local debate pages, but some of the information shared is incorrect and the council is sometimes blamed for issues that are out of its control.

Councillor Bawden said that the council should not just rely on its own Facebook page to address inaccuracies, but should respond on other local pages when false statements are made.

Members agreed they would review the council’s social media policy at a future meeting.

Our first issue of the New Year will be out on January 10 2020 Until then, stay up to date with all the local news at lyme-online.co.uk

New Year’s Day duck race to raise funds for lights

IT’S set to be another ‘quacking’ New Year’s Day in Lyme Regis as the Christmas Lights Committee host their annual duck race.

Hundreds of yellow toy ducks will be released into the River Lim outside Higher Mill Flats on Windsor Terrace at 12noon.

The race will be started by town crier Alan Vian and the ducks will be assisted down the river to the finishing line at Jordan Flats by volunteer members of the lifeboat crew, who also collect them all at the end of the race to ensure no plastic ducks make it out to sea!

Cash prizes totalling £90 will be available for first, second and a third place, plus the last duck home.

Entry costs just £1 per duck, which can be purchased from the start line from 11.15am on the day, or online in advance at lymechristmaslights.co.uk/buyducks Those attending the race will have plenty of time to walk to the beach afterwards, where the annual Lyme Lunge swim will be held at 1pm sharp.

Emergency advice available over Christmas and New Year

THE weekly advice sessions run by Citizens Advice in Lyme Regis will not take place for the two weeks beginning Monday, December 23 due to Christmas and New Year.

They will start again on January 6 2020 with the session held on Monday between 10am and 12noon at the Lyme Regis Medical Centre in Uplyme Road (DT7 3LS).

However, people with an emergency problem can continue to contact the AdviceLine by calling 03444 111 444. This will be operating on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve between 9am and 1pm and on December 27 and 30 from 9am to 5pm.

Shelter’s Housing Helpline on 0808 800 4444 operates 365 days a year, from 8am to 8pm on weekdays and from 9am to 5pm at weekends and on Bank Holidays.

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

Lyme’s lifeboat volunteers star in RNLI Christmas film Deputy mayor resigns two weeks earlier than planned THE Deputy Mayor of Lyme Regis has resigned from the town council with immediate effect – two weeks earlier than expected.

Jeff Scowen shocked the town in October when he announced that he intended to resign on December 31, as he had decided to move to north Wales to be closer to family.

But his departure has come two weeks earlier than expected and he has officially handed in his resignation.

Mr Scowen said: “I am resigning my position as town councillor with immediate effect.

“I had originally intended to resign on December 31 as I am moving to north Wales to be nearer to my family but things have moved quicker than expected and I will be leaving Lyme Regis this week.

“I would like to bid a fond farewell

to the town and my council colleagues – it has been an honour to serve as town councillor, deputy mayor and chairman of the Tourism, Community and Publicity Committee.”

Notice of a vacancy on the town council has now been given. An election will be held if at least 10 electors make a written request to the returning officer at Dorset Council by January 10.

Otherwise, the vacancy will be filled by co-option, where the town council will select a new councillor.

If an election is called, it will take place no later than March 16.

Requests for an election must be made in writing to the Returning Officer, South Walks House, South Walks Road, Dorchester, Dorset, DT1 1UZ.

VOLUNTEERS from Lyme Regis lifeboat station and their families are the starts of the very first Christmas film produced by the RNLI. Filmed on location in and around the station in Lyme Regis, the heart-warming film has been released nationally this week, aiming to celebrate the dedication and commitment of all its volunteer lifeboat crews who will be on call during the Christmas period.

The RNLI’s festive film follows 25-year-old fulltime TV production co-ordinator and crew member, Georgia Robson. Fellow lifeboat crew member Brian Street plays her father in the film, and his reallife daughter Darci plays Georgia’s sister (pictured above).

Whilst the family prepare for Christmas dinner, Georgia is called away by the sound of her pager.

She is seen racing down Church Street and Coombe Street in Lyme Regis to the lifeboat station to join the rest of the crew who are preparing for rescue.

The crew launch the lifeboat to search for a casualty who they thankfully find and bring back to safety. As they return they discover a festive surprise in the station boathouse, with fellow crew members, their partners and children enjoying Christmas dinner at the station all together.

Over recent years, it has become a festive tradition for charities and businesses to release promotional Christmas films and adverts. But instead of actors and big budgets, the RNLI have produced the film in-house, featuring the very people who will be in action over Christmas.

Star of the film Georgia, a keen actress who has starred in several local productions, said: “I loved being involved in this film. Christmas is a time where families come together, but RNLI volunteers can be called away from their families and homes at any moment.

“I think this film beautifully highlights the ‘togetherness’ found within crews all around our coast.”

Sharing her thoughts on the festive film, the RNLI’s director of fundraising, media and marketing, Jayne George, added: “Our RNLI festive film shows the magic of families coming together at Christmas. But it also shows the reality of Christmas for some of our volunteers who will still be on call during their festive celebrations.

“We want to take this opportunity to thank our volunteers and supporters, we couldn’t do it without them.”

Visit lyme-online.co.uk to view the RNLI Christmas film

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Boylos joins forces with reforestation charity LYME Regis watersports shop Boylos has teamed up with local reforestation charity The Word Forest Organisation to launch its ‘Green 4’ project. Launched on November 29 as an alternative to the Black Friday shopping event, the ‘Green 4’ project will run for four months until March 29 2020 For every £50 taken on the Boylos website, the company will work with Lyme Regos-based charity The Word Forest Organisation to plant a tree in Kenya to help tackle climate change.

Friday, December 20 2019 5

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the latest from Lyme Regis

FROM LYME’S OW N COMMUNIT Y WEBSITE

Stay up to date at www.lyme-online.co.uk - 24/7 news | sport | community Take time to relax and reflect this Christmas

Horticultural society to host film screening THE Uplyme & Lyme Regis Horticultural Society has expanded its winter programme and will be hosting its first film screening in the New Year.

The film ‘Five Seasons: The Gardens of Piet Oudolf’ will be shown at the Marine Theatre in Lyme Regis on Sunday, January 12 and all are welcome. Piet Oudolf is an internationallyrenowned Dutch garden designer and this documentary immerses viewers in his work and takes them inside his creative process.

Homebredy House raises more than £200 for RNLI RESIDENTS of Homebredy House in Bridport have raised more than £200 for the RNLI. The sale of a charity calendar created by residents of the retirement housing in East Street, Bridport, made £106. A cheque was handed over to Krys Lavery, manager of the RNLI shop in Lyme Regis, at a tea party last week where a further £104.50 was raised through the sale of RNLI merchandise.

MANIC is definitely the word to describe this week. We’ve been flat out in the LymeOnline office putting together this bumper 32page festive edition - plenty of reading material to get you through Christmas and the New Year!

Visits from Father Christmas, carol singing, turkey dinners and festive fundraisers have filled up my diary, topped with a town council double bill this week to ensure all business was dealt with before close of play.

Meanwhile my Christmas ‘to do’ list is getting bigger by the minute; the tree is up but I’ve still a load of gifts to buy and I haven’t written a single card!

It is a wonderful time to spend in Lyme Regis, but I’ve barely had a minute to enjoy the festive atmosphere over the past week. Still, the end is in sight and as you read this I’ll be packing up the office for a two-week Christmas break (yes, two whole weeks!).

Of course, just because I’ll be out of office doesn’t mean I’ll be completely off duty; you’ll still see me at all the major Christmas events and our website and social media will continue to be updated with the latest news. But I’ll have a little more time to make the most of Christmas in Lyme... and tick everything off my list!

Carols Around the Tree is a favourite with my family, this year

to be held on Monday, December 23 at 7pm in Broad Street. I’ve even sent my Irish brother-in-law a CD of English carols and hymns after discovering he didn’t learn the songs growing up in the Catholic church. Barry - I hope you’ve been practising!

And I’ll be out on Christmas morning taking photos of all those brave enough for a chilly dip off Charmouth beach in aid of the RNLI - another event that has become a firm part of my Christmas traditions.

The run-up to Christmas can be stressful, but I hope whatever you’re doing you find some time to relax, reflect on the year gone by and relish the community spirit of Lyme Regis - always at its best this time of year.

Thank you to all our readers and advertisers for another year of your support. After refreshing over the Christmas break, our first printed paper of the New Year will be out on January 10 and we have some exciting new plans for 2020 that we can’t wait to develop and share with you.

Francesca Evans, Editor

NE W LOOK

Art demonstrations to Hub volunteer achieves continue in new year childcare qualification MATTHEW Davison and Warren Madill were the latest guest speakers to visit Lyme Regis Art Society. The first demonstration of the new year will be on January 7, when Greg Wellman talks about ‘Secret Places in Lyme – painting those places which other people miss’. For details visit www.lymeregisartssociety.org.uk

A VOLUNTEER at The Hub in Lyme Regis has now qualified as a Level 3 Practitioner in Residential Childcare. Lydia Glover (pictured) has been volunteering at regular youth club sessions at The Hub in Church Street, and the experience has helped her to gain her qualifications at The University Centre Somerset, based in Taunton.

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Fun, Fab, Dance Based Fitness Join Sarah on Tuesday mornings from 10-11am for 1st session free Call 07788 946 427 for more information

Award-winning folk duo announce New Year concert at Marine Theatre FOLLOWING a sell-out performance at Lyme Folk Weekend, the multi-award winning duo Ninebarrow, otherwise known as Jon Whitley and Jay LaBouchardiere, have announced they will be returning to Lyme Regis for their first concert of the new year. They will perform at the Marine Theatre on Saturday, January 25. Tickets cost £14 in advance or £16.50 on the door. To book, call 01297 442138 or visit www.marinetheatre.com

Other regular events include Ballet, Yoga, Pilates, Bingo and Town Band Rehearsals

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

6 Friday, December 20 2019

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

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philip@lyme-online.co.uk

Is this the end for the TIC?

G

REAT concern has been expressed in Lyme Regis this week over the future of the town’s award-winning Tourist Information Centre.

To be honest, there has been a question mark hanging over the TIC ever since the town council announced they were giving notice to West Dorset District Council to vacate the premises. The reason? Because the council needed ground floor access facilities for those in wheelchairs who are unable to get to their first floor offices.

The TIC used to be owned by the town council but it was sold off to West Dorset District Council who entered into an agreement to rent the Guildhall Cottage premises.

When the district council was amalgamated with Dorset County Council, the new unitary authority took over responsibility for the service.

They were issued a notice to quit the office in March of next year, which has since been extended to July.

The new Dorset Council, facing budget deficit if £12million, has now

launched a consultation process over the future of the TIC which loses £87,000 a year, offering three options: to close the service altogether; to install a touch screen self-service capability; and to consider continuing the service through volunteers. Most people have come to the conclusion that one way or another, the TIC will be closed and staff made redundant.

A campaign on social media is encouraging the public, particularly the trading community, to oppose the closure.

There is no doubt that the TIC provides an excellent service and the staff have won great praise from the community. Its closure could make life very difficult for users like the Marine Theatre who depend on the TIC for providing a booking service.

Lyme Regis Town Council is at loggerheads with Dorset Council over the potential closure, with town clerk John Wright making a lengthy statement on how the current situation has been reached and defending the town council’s actions.

The town council issued the notice to quit only after discussions on the sub-

ject broke down. One suggestion put forward in the past was for the town council to provide an information desk at their new ground floor offices in Guildhall Cottage with an outreach desk in the Jubilee Pavilion on the Marine Parade.

It is also argued that with the increase use of social media for accommodation booking and local information, a tractional TIC is now an extravagance.

This is obviously a worry for the excellent TIC staff who have won several awards over the years for the quality of their service.

It is to be regretted that the relationship between the new unitary authority and the town council has been strained so early in the life of Dorset Council.

There are very few traditional TICs in Dorset and neither Dorset Council nor the town council will want to continue financing the service to the tune of £87,000 a year when budgets are under such scrutiny.

It certainly looks like this is the end of the TIC as we know it and there will be great sympathy for the staff who have run the facility so well.

Thank you for your support THIS is the last issue of LymeOnline for 2019, an appropriate time therefore to say a heartfelt thank you to all the local traders who have supported us this year.

LymeOnline - with 50/60 stories from Lyme, Charmouth and Uplyme in every issue, continues to be well received. I doubt whether there is a community with a similar population to Lyme which has such comprehensive news coverage.

Alas, the days of local newspapers as we used to know them are over, mainly due to the explosion in the digital world and the popularity of social media. We run LymeOnline

as a community, non-profit-making enterprise and as such we rely on a few generous businesses that support us as sponsors, rather than just advertisers, together with a few individuals who make the occasional donation for receiving the paper through their door. Without their help, LymeOnline would not be able to continue.

We also rely heavily on contracts that we have to edit newspapers for other publishers. My wife Jackie looks after this part of the business, leaving our daughter Francesca to work her cotton socks off editing LymeOnline with minimal help from

myself. Our elder daughter Zoe, who lives in Ireland, helps out on the technical side when the need arises.

Publishing a fortnightly newspaper alongside a website seems to work well and we are very excited by our new platform called Sights & Sounds, in which we will be doing more video news, podcasts, live news and sport bulletins next year.

We would also like to thank our loyal readers for being so supportive and those who do the door-todoor deliveries. We hope you all have a wonderful Christmas and a happy New Year.

THIS is the photo that has caused much amusement on social media, especially among my friends, whose comments were not very complimentary, or printable in a family newspaper.

It shows me raising a glass to my fellow pensioners attending the old folks annual Christmas luncheon at the Woodmead Halls last Saturday.

To attend you have to have reached a certain age. I would have gone last year but we were visiting our grandchildren in London.

So I jumped at the chance of making my debut this year. Mrs E declined the invitation to accompany me, pointing out it would be many years before she was old enough to attend.

Sitting alongside me is fellow Lyme boy Ken Gollop, looking rather glum. One comment I saw on Facebook was “so would I if I had to sit through

lunch next to you”. Thanks for that.

In one way or another, I’ve been connected with this event for many years. Back in the 1970s it was organised by the Regatta & Carnival Committee when I was the secretary.

It’s always been one of my favourite Christmas events but for some reason - I know not why? - a lot of my friends of a similar age are reluctant to be seen at this gathering of Lyme’s senior citizens.

In his speech at the lunch, Lyme’s-young-at-heart mayor Brian Larcombe quipped I had been recruited for the organisers’ new youth policy.

Next year I’m planning a table of ten for all those who have been so rude to me this week.

Well done to committee chairman Owen Lovell and his team for organising the event, some of whom are old enough to be sitting down themselves.

I went and it was just great

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‘ARE You Going to the Marine?’ Well, I did, and it was a cracking night!

This was the title chosen for the community show put on to celebrate the 125th anniversary of the Marine Theatre, brilliantly written by son of Lyme, actor and scriptwriter Andy Rattenbury (pictured right).

Amazingly, 91 people took part in the threenight sell-out production, staged not by the Marine Theatre staff but a group of individuals known as the community players.

It’s important to point this out as there were some raised eyebrows when an application was made to the town council to help fund the show, which was turned down.

The Marine Theatre relies on a major grant from the council every year and is anxious to stress that it was not asking the council for more money.

Andrew’s clever script and his professional narration on each decade at the Marine struck a cord with me. He really captured the special role the theatre has played in the social life of Lyme

Regis throughout the decades. And it was good to see two of his brothers, Steve and Brian, playing the parts of the jobsworth backstage crew, adding greatly to the humour of the evening.

I’ve written many times in this column how I spent most of my courting at the Marine Theatre in the 1960s and when they got to this decade it brought many happy memories of attending the Big Beat nights.

The show included contributions from Lyme’s amateur stage organisations, the pantomime society, Lyme Regis Musical Theatre and the Marine Players, as well as charming contributions by the Lyme Regis Ballet School, B Sharp and Saxminster.

From a cast perspective, it was the biggest number of people brought together on the Marine stage and a huge success for director Georgia Robson and musical director Declan Duffy.

Hats off also to the team of youngsters who kept the action going throughout with their energetic dance routines.

See review on page 16

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We are all the richer for Lyme’s community spirit A Christmas and New Year message from the Mayor and Mayoress of Lyme Regis

AS we approach Christmas it’s often a time to reflect on the past year ahead of the new one, and although the period of mayor has been since May it’s been busy and rewarding and does seem longer.

It started with the mayor-making which was full of Lyme council’s historic references and ceremonial tradition - a big thank you to those who sat through it on what is without doubt the most uncomfortable of seating in the Guildhall!

It wasn’t long before the first engagement arrived, that being the motorcycle charity ride and the hundreds of bikes that lined the Cart Road and route out of town. Many other engagements have followed and it is remarkable how many give their time and energy to fundraising for good causes from such a small town population.

Equally remarkable is the number of clubs, groups and societies we have in Lyme. The range is a compliment to Lyme’s residents and the offering of interests for all abilities and age groups. There is a richness to these which is a great credit to all who work on the contribution each makes to the town or the particular causes they support.

Lyme gives a disproportionately high commitment to these undertakings; far more than many larger towns, and we are all the richer for it. Well done and thank

you.

We had two significant commemorations,- the 75th anniversary of D-Day and Remembrance Day both were an important reminder of those who lost their lives and served during the conflict of both world wars. Thank you to the Royal British Legion branch for the local organising of the events over the weekends in June and November.

We’ve had another hot and bustling summer with the huge numbers Lyme attracts. A summer that began with Blessing of the Boats; then the launching of the latest fleet of Boat Building Academy vessels; the traditional regatta and lifeboat weeks packed with activities for children (and their parents) culminating in the illuminated boats, firework displays and carnival. Again a great credit to all who organise these voluntary events.

Interspersed we’ve also had the hugely significant and successful Bermuda and Jamestown twinning visits, theatre performances, fossil and food festivals, all of which represent a packed and varied programme of events right up to Christmas with the lighting of the town and most recently the town band Christmas concert.

We’ve also seen the marks of endeavour and investment in the fabric of the tow - properties and important structures are undergoing maintenance; there’s been more scaffolding around than ever and it’s a welcome sign of the commitment being made in Lyme. It’s all helping to collec-

tively raise and maintain standards, and provide the best for our town.

None of these things are easy or happen without real effort, and whether its a local club or society; a charity or good cause; a business or a public provider, all work on delivering to their plans and goals throughout the year. So when Christmas arrives the town has its Lyme-time and even the most active should have their personal time; take a short break, take quiet delight in what they’ve done and re-charge the batteries.

The New Year beckons but isn’t here quite yet and what it brings is a busy tomorrow that can wait for us to enjoy the festive season.

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Brian & Wendy Larcombe Proud to be Mayor and Mayoress of Lyme PICTURED right, the Mayor and Mayoress of Lyme Regis, Brian and Wendy Larcombe, joined by town crier Alan Vian at the switching on of the town’s Christmas lights

Council optimistic it will get back on top of financial controls LYME Regis Town Council is confident it can get issues surrounding its finances back under control by the end of the financial year.

A number of weaknesses in the council’s financial systems were recently highlighted by an auditor’s report, with the problems put down to the long-term absence of a finance manager.

The council’s finance manager went

on long-term sick leave in 2018 and later left the organisation, and a permanent replacement has not yet been found.

Members considered the auditor’s report at this week’s meeting, where Councillor John Broom said they should focus more on the future and not what had happened in the past.

Town clerk John Wright admitted it was not the council’s best auditor’s

report, but he said target dates had been set to get back on top of the issues and he was optimistic these would be met with the help of a new interim finance manager.

He added that he had been very impressed by the progress already made in the three weeks since the interim finance manager had been appointed, and the issues should be resolved by the end of the financial year.

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Special awards at lifeboat crew dinner

MARK Colley (right) is presented with his long-service award Photos by Seb Cope

A SAFE, sound and efficient year was how the man at the helm of the RNLI in Lyme Regis described 2019 at the crew’s annual Christmas dinner on Saturday night.

Lifeboat operations manager Nick Marks reported that, so far this year, the volunteer crew had answered 32 calls for help and held 40 training sessions, which he described as “no mean achievement”.

Some 60 crew members, their family and friends attended the dinner at the Harbour Inn. Special awards were made to helm Mark Colley, who has completed 20 years voluntary service with the RNLI, and former crew member Mark Gage for 15 years service.

The much-coveted award for the person voted crew member of the year went to helm Tom Crabbe.

Tongue-in-cheek awards also went to Tom Wallis who won the Bent Propeller Trophy, and two crew members were voted Tractor Drivers of the Year - John Cable and Garry Gibbs.

THE Bent Propeller Trophy goes to Tom Wallis (left), presented by Tom Crabbe

Tales From Lyme’s Past

A glimpse of our history with Peter Lacey

MARK Gage (left) receives his long service award from operations manager Nick Marks

‘For the Socour of Shippes’ Part III THE Great Gale of November 1824 left the Cobb in need of extensive repairs and major reconstruction.

The task once again fell to George Fanshaw (now Lt., Colonel) of the Royal Engineers. The work commenced in April 1825 and was completed in November 1826. It was a lengthy and expensive project requiring the repairing and rebuilding of some 232 feet of pier and 447 feet of parapet at a cost of £17,377.

On the instructions of the Duke of Wellington a commemorative plaque (cost not to exceed £7) was installed in the arch of the Gin Shop.

This alcove with its two flights of stairs leading to the upper walkway was built to Fanshaw’s design. An earlier recess probably existed to house a three-legged crane known as a Gyn, it would have been used for lifting heavy blocks of stone, for pile driving and for the placement of guns.

The Fanshaw repairs provided for Portland cap-stone to be laid in courses, they were united with iron-bolts let down into the blocks, each block bound to the next by dovetails of sturdy oak.

Despite the problems of past, poor general maintenance was again highlighted in a report of 1831 which stated that the inspecting officer found ‘rents and openings on the paving of the sea wall, some of which he was able to get his foot in.’

A letter in the Sherborne Mercury complained that the Cobb masons ‘spent much of their time in idleness.’ However, in 1834 a raised carriage way was constructed to allow

carts to access to the quay at all states of the tide. 1842-43 saw Crab Head extended by 100 feet, it was renamed The Victoria Pier in honour of the Queen.

1846 saw yet another gale which caused considerable damage to a new northern wall being built to replace the one badly damaged in 1824. History repeated itself in 1854, during yet another gale vessels were sunk or driven out of the harbour, the shoreline was littered with wreckage.

Some half a mile of tramlines used for conveying limestone from the cliff quarries to the quay was destroyed. Constructed in 1853 they were partly on wooden piles, the remains of which can still be seen today close to the curve of the inner wall. Severe weather in the years 1857 and 1867 caused further damage to the Cobb and shipping.

In 1874 there was an ambitious scheme to enlarge the harbour by enclosing an area of some 75 acres. It included 1,000 foot eastern breakwater extending from below Church Cliff and also a lengthy extension of the western pier. The concept was impractical and with an estimated cost of £50,000 it was a non-starter.

The outline of the Cobb has changed little since the 1850s, a major change was the earlier construction (1750s) of a causeway linking it to the shore for the first time.

Over the centuries the Cobb has resisted the might of the sea, it is Lyme’s umbilical cord that unites and binds the town to its maritime heritage and its very existence.

Peter Lacey, Local historian and author

JOHN Cable and Garry Gibbs both received tractor driver of the year awards, presented by Jon Broome

TOM Crabbe (left) receives the crew member of the year award from operations manager Nick Marks

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It’s definitely looking a lot like Christmas

Come and join us!

â—?

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Musical director receives award at town band’s Christmas concert

STUART Broom (right) presents the Gordon Broom Memorial Shield to Lyme Regis Town Band musical director Brian Scott at their annual Christmas concert LYME Regis Town Band’s musical director Brian “As well as being a dedicated member of Lyme Scott has won the organisation’s coveted Gordon Regis Town Band, Brian also plays for St SwithBroom Memorial Shield. ins Band in Bridport and has his own band, The award is presented every year at the band’s Brass Tacks which undertake a varied proannual Christmas concert, to the member who gramme of events. has shown most dedication over the year.

“Despite living and working in Weymouth he It was presented to Brian by Stuart Broom, in travels to Lyme for band practice twice a week, memory of his father Gordon who was a long- and is unstinting in his dedication and commitserving member of the band. ment to the band.

Mr Broom said: “The fact that this is the second “He is therefore a very worthy recipient of the time that Brian has been chosen to receive this Gordon Broom award, and I have pleasure in award is a clear indication of his popularity presenting it to him on behalf of the band.” within the band.

The award was presented at the band’s Christ“An accomplished player who at various times has played both cornet and trombone and is cur- mas concert, held at the Woodmead Halls on rently playing tuba, he showed his versatility by Sunday afternoon.

The audience, including the Mayor of Lyme taking over as musical director in 2015, for which he won the award for the first time, suc- Regis, Councillor Brian Larcombe MBE, and his cessfully guiding the band through its annual wife Wendy, enjoyed a varied programme of schedule of engagements for the next four years. favourite tunes and Christmas numbers.

Legion stalwarts honoured TWO of Lyme’s most dedicated Royal British Legion members have been honoured for their work for the charity.

At the recent annual meeting of the Lyme Regis branch, Ania Driver and Jacqui Ward jointly received the much coveted Jack Loveridge trophy for those members who go beyond the call of duty.

They are pictured above with branch chairman Major Ian Marshall receiving the trophy from Mr Loveridge’s son Les. Jack Loveridge was a keen member of the Royal British Legion after serving in the Royal Navy on HMS Rodney throughout the Second War World. He and his family emigrated to the United States in the 1950s but

Family-run business serving home-cooked food using quality local produce Enjoy lunch or dinner in our restaurant, private beach area or veranda overlooking the bay

Mr Loveridge senior kept in touch with local affairs and often visited his own town.

Mrs Driver, a Polish national and former Army nurse, has acted as the Legion’s welfare officer for several years, visiting ex-service personnel, especially those suffering from ill-health, on a regular basis.

Mrs Ward organises the annual Poppy Appeal in Lyme Regis and reported at the meeting that this year’s total had topped £5,000 again.

Officers elected: president - Philip Evans MBE; chairman - Ian Marshall; vice-chairman - Peter Ward; secretary - Chris James; treasurer - Jon Hunt; membership secretary - Daniel Buckley.

Sue, Mark and all the staff wish all their customers

a Very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year We look forward to seeing you over the Christmas period and in 2020 Music at The Harbour with a DJ on Saturday December 21st and on Boxing Day evening

THE Harbour Inn proprietor Sue Steward pictured with cheffing team, led by long-serving head chef Darrol Moss (second from left)

in Lyme Regis

Usual opening times over Christmas Bookings only on Christmas Day

To book call 01297 442299 - harbourinnlymeregis.co.uk

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Lifeboat crew’s Christmas gift to foodbank Festive entertainment

LYME Regis lifeboat crew got into the festive spirit last week, offering a Christmas gift to the local foodbank.

The lifeboat crew received an anonymous donation of a hamper full of Christmas treats, but rather than splitting it amongst themselves, they agreed to donate it to those more in need.

Members of the crew visited Lyme Regis Foodbank volunteers at The Hub on Wednesday morning, where they handed over the hamper, which will help to support those struggling over the festive period.

Volunteer lifeboat operations manager Nick Marks said: “Lyme Regis lifeboat is very fortunate in having generous supporters who help us in so many ways and for whom we are very grateful.

“Recently a couple who wish to remain anonymous handed in a hamper of festive food at the RNLI shop.

Our crew appreciates the gesture but recognises there are those in the town who could also benefit from these items and may not enjoy the level of support that we do.

“We therefore decided to donate the hamper to Lyme Regis Foodbank, and we thought it appropriate that one deserving charity, such as ours, should support another very worthwhile enterprise particularly at Christmas."

It has unfortunately been another busy year for Lyme Regis Foodbank and, despite some quieter periods over summer, the amount of food the service has distributed has gone up by about 25 per cent compared to 2018.

The foodbank is run by LymeForward and operates from The Hub in

at memory café party

MEMBERS of Lyme Regis lifeboat crew donate a Christmas hamper to Lyme Regis Foodbank, gratefully received by Chris Tipping, manager of LymeForward, and foodbank volunteers

Church Street on Wednesdays. It measures how much food is distributed by the number of person/weeks (so one person/week is one week’s worth of food for one person). To date this year, the foodbank has distributed 445 person/weeks’ worth of food, which was described as “a huge amount”.

Chris Tipping of LymeForward commented: “The saddest aspect of this is that the people we see are just like me and you, but happen to have had some misfortune in their lives, whether it has been losing a job or suffering from a health condition.

“This could happen to anyone, and indeed we know people in our area who are too ashamed to visit because of the social stigma they perceive.

“Although we try to make the foodbank a welcoming place, it can be a stressful experience visiting for the first time. We have had a number of clients waiting outside trying to build up the courage to come in, and often when they do pluck up the courage to

come in, they are quite tearful.

“Our amazing volunteers do their utmost to make the experience as normal as possible. Nobody at the foodbank ever judges a person by their situation; we offer a warm drink, often accompanied by a bacon sandwich, and make you feel part of the family.

“The foodbank is not going to be the panacea for all life’s problems, but hopefully we can help someone through a difficult situation in their lives as painlessly as possible.

“To end on a happier note, it is worth remembering the kindness and generosity of the residents of our area. Without the constant food and financial donations from everyone, we would not be able to run this facility for our town, and I would like to thank you all for everything you do, no matter how large or small, and I know I can count on your support throughout 2020.”

LYME Regis Memory Café saw its best ever attendance for its Christmas party on Wednesday afternoon. The memory café is held monthly at Lyme Regis Football Club, organised by LymeForward, for those suffering from the early stages of dementia. At the Christmas party, guests and volunteers tucked into a buffet of sandwiches, sones and cake while being entertained by a singer. They also enjoyed dancing to some festive tunes and received a present from Father Christmas. For more information on the memory café, call 01297 441224.

More Christmas news on pages 12-15

Colyton Butchers A big thank you from Colyton Butchers Lyme Regis The owners and staff at Colyton Butchers would like to thank the town for continued support throughout the year and wish you all a fantastic Christmas and prosperous New Year Coming soon in 2020 Savings/Christmas club, loyalty scheme, gift vouchers, locally sourced meat, 28 days matured beef, daily home deliveries ( no minimum order ) We have put together a list of specials we will be offering throughout January and February which are kind to your pocket after Christmas, all packs can be delivered to your home or place of work 6 days a week Mon-Sat from 9am to 9pm

MEAT FOR A WEEK £25.99 4 Pork Steaks 1lb Minced Beef 8 Large Sausages 2 ½ lb chicken 2 Chicken Fillets 2 Gammon Steaks

JOINT PACK £39.99 1kg Beef Joint 1kg Pork Joint 1kg Gammon Joint 1kg Lamb Shoulder 1.5 kg Chicken

www.colytonbutchers.co.uk | 01297 445000 55 Broad Street, Lyme Regis, Dorset

STEAK PACK £29.99 2 x 6oz Sirloins 2 x 6oz Rib-Eyes 2 x 6oz Rumps 2 x 4oz Fillets

STEW PACK £15.99

1lb Diced Beef 1lb Diced Lamb 1lb Diced Pork 1lb Diced Chicken

MINCE PACK £29.99 2 x 1lb Minced Beef 2 x 1lb Minced Pork 2 x 1lb Minced Lamb 2 x 1Ib Minced Chicken

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The best place to celebrate the festive season!

A LOCAL family has raised more than £800 for Lyme Regis Christmas Lights Committee.

The Causley family has brought festive cheer to Lyme Regis with two events this month, and boosted funds for next year’s Christmas illuminations.

Neville Causley, his wife Sarah and helpers toured the town with their charity Santa sleigh on December 9 and 10, despite atrocious weather on the second night (pictured right). But spirits remained high and local children were excited to meet Father Christmas as he made his rounds.

This was the eighteenth year the Causley family has organised the sleigh, raising thousands of pounds for local and national charities and good causes. This year, £768 was collected for Lyme Regis Christmas Lights Committee.

Neville commented: "The weather was perfect on Monday, but Tuesday was very wet, in fact probably one of the wettest ever nights, but spirits were high as usual and there was plenty of dancing in the streets, and people having a good time.

“I am very grateful to Lyme Regis Regatta & Carnival Committee for their continued support of the sleigh, who once again have kindly covered the cost of the insurance, which is a big cost to us.

“I would also like to personally thank the following people for their help and support, as without these generous people, we would not be able to take the sleigh out: Joe Mew for the use of the towing vehicle; Shane Curral for the use of the trailer; Sparkbrights for the loan of the music system; Fowler Plant Hire for the loan of the generator; the Leeming family for storage of the sleigh; John and Sylvia Rickard for allowing us to take over their driveway for the past week, and finally of course to my family and Santa’s little helpers."

Neville hopes to build a new sleigh with a roof in time for next year and anyone able to help in any way can call him on 01297 642011.

Sarah Causley also organised the Lyme Regis Community Carols event for the first time this year, bringing 65 residents together to sing traditional carols on the streets of Lyme Regis last

week, joined by town crier Alan Vian (pictured above).

Once again, the event was hit by bad weather but it didn’t stop the carollers. The group started outside Cloverdale Court in Anning Road and

made their way around the main residential estate before finishing at Woodmead Halls with warming drinks and mince pies.

A collection on the night raised a further £111.70 for the Christmas lights fund.

Christmas elves take over Bymead nursing home STAFF at Bymead Nursing Home in Charmouth unleashed their inner elfness on Friday, December 6 as part of national Elf Day to raise money for the Alzheimer's Society.

Bymead's resident therapy dogs Rufus and Lola also joined in the fun by wearing doggie elf jumpers.

Residents, along with their families and friends, were entertained, served refreshments all day and participated in a natural foliage wreath-making session led by the festive elves.

If any one from the community would like to donate to the Alzheimer’s Society through Bymead's fundraising appeal, their support would be gratefully received and by the administration team.

National Elf Day was just one of the activities taking place at Bymead House during December, with the packed Christmas programme also including visits from hand bell ringers from Mountjoy School, the Charmouth Brownies, Lyme Regis Town Band, various choirs and tribute singers.

Bymead currently has an en-suite room available. For full details or to arrange a viewing call 01297 560620.

Pictured left, Lorna Gould, John Hallett, Maria Ndungu, manager Amy Blacklock, Peter Sayers, Alison Taylor, Amy Vernon, Michelle Averill, Rebecca Heath, Anita Boydon, Honeybee Toledo and Sharon Fucci (photo by Susan Blacklock).

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The best place to celebrate the festive season!

Charmouth gets in the Christmas spirit Festive fun at the fort THE Davey Fort - home to Lyme Regis Football Club - has been full of festive cheer in the run up to Christmas.

The club hosted its annual Christmas auction on Saturday, December 7 raising £1,400 for its ongoing development fund.

Organiser Francesca Evans thanked all the local traders, club members and supporters who had generously donated prizes and made bids on the night.

Last weekend the club hosted a Christmas lunch for about 50 members and supporters, with roast turkey and Christmas pudding prepared by mother and daughter catering duo, Fiona and Emma Blackmore.

The event raised about £500 which will be split between club funds and the fundraising appeal to

re-open a pre-school in Lyme Regis.

Other festive events to be held at the club have included a Christmas meat draw and Christmas bingo.

Lyme Regis Football Club is now looking ahead to the new year, with its first major fundraiser being a Roaring 1920s Ball on Saturday, February 29. For full details and tickets, call Francesca on 07810 221 420.

MEMBERS of the Little Rascals playgroup in Lyme Regis were treated to some special presents ahead of Christmas, thanks to the local branch of Co-op. Store manager Karl Josko and staff attended the last playgroup session before Christmas to deliver new toys for the children to enjoy together. The money for the toys was raised through competition run in the Broad Street shop, and rounds off a busy year of fundraising for the Co-op staff.

The Little Rascals meet once a week in St Michael’s Parish Church Hall for children aged up to four years. For details visit facebook.com/pg/lymeslittlerascals

CHARMOUTH residents and traders got into the festive spirit for the village’s annual Christmas fayre on Thursday, December 5. Shops stayed open late and offered customers special Christmas treats and offers, including mulled wine and mince pies.

Children queued outside Breeze for their chance to meet Father Christmas and enjoyed craft activities in St Andrew’s Church. Local organisations also set up fundraising stalls in The Street and a grad raffle was held in Fortnam, Smith & Banwell.

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The best place to celebrate the festive season!

Over 70s tuck into Christmas lunch...

SENIOR citizens of Lyme Regis enjoyed some festive fayre at the annual Over 70s Christmas Lunch.

The event was held at the Woodmead Halls on Saturday, with more than 60 guests attending. They enjoyed a traditional lunch of vegetable soup, roast turkey and all the trimmings, followed by Christmas pudding.

The meal was prepared by local caterer Laurie Statham and her team, with donations kindly made by the local branch of Co-op.

After lunch, residents joined in some festive entertainment provided by the Croft Singers.

They Mayor of Lyme Regis, Councillor Brian Larcombe MBE, accompanied by mayoress Wendy Larcombe, wished all those attending a merry Christmas and handed out chocolates (pictured left).

Guests also enjoyed a raffle and were each able to take home a Christmas present.

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The best place to celebrate the festive season!

and so do the kids!

CHILDREN from St Michael’s Primary School in Lyme Regis enjoyed a traditional Christmas lunch before breaking up for the holidays.

Former kitchen assistant Kirsty Godfrey has now been appointed school cook with St Michael’s taking all of its

catering in house.

Menus are planned weeks ahead and the school buys in all its own ingredients with Kirsty cooking everything from scratch.

The new scheme has proved hugely popular, with more than 70 children now

signed up for hot school meals rather than packed lunches.

On Tuesday the children enjoyed traditional roast turkey with all the trimmings followed by cake, and enjoyed pulling crackers together at the tables.

SCHOOL cook Kirsty Godfrey pictured with children from St Michael’s as they tuck into their Christmas dinner

School choir entertains at nursing home PICTURED above, volunteers from Hallett Court in Lyme Regis held their annual Christmas raffle with a record 175 prizes on Wednesday. Tickets had been bought throughout the year with all money raised going back in to provide the prizes. Below, local ladies enjoy one of many wreath-making workshops held in the town in the run-up to Christmas. Residents have been busy practising their Christmas crafts at a number of events, with this one held at Lyme Regis Golf Club (photos by Lynnette Ravenscroft).

THE choir from St Michael's Primary School entertained residents of Lyme Regis Nursing Home with some traditional Christmas songs on Tuesday afternoon.

Merry Christmas and a happy New Year to all our readers and advertisers, from the LymeOnline team

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ART | MUSIC | THEATRE | WHAT’S ON | COMPETITIONS

Did you go to the Marine?

COMMUNITY PLAY TAKES AUDIENCES THROUGH 125 YEARS OF THEATRE’S HISTORY “DID you go to the Marine?” It seems to be the question on everyone’s lips this week after audiences were blown away by a community play celebrating 125 years of history at Lyme’s little theatre by the sea.

THEATRE REVIEW

By Francesca Evans ‘Are You Going to the Marine?’

Marine Theatre, Lyme Regis

If you weren’t in the sell-out audiences, you were probably in the show, as the production impressively pulled together more than 100 residents either on stage or helping behind the scenes.

‘Are You Going to the Marine?’ was written specially to top off the theatre’s anniversary year

by Lyme-born scriptwriter Andy Rattenbury.

Based around a technical rehearsal for a community play, those on stage dipped in and out of character to cleverly pack 125 years of history into just a couple of hours.

After hearing his many tales of days gone by at the theatre, I took my Dad along with me to the opening night. From the moment we arrived it was clear this was going to be no ordinary show; the cast were already in character as they greeted audience members in the auditorium and I was left blushing in the aisle after John Gooden, playing Shakespeare, serenaded me with lines from ‘Sonnet 18’.

From the Marine’s beginnings as a Georgian bath, through its years as a drill hall during the two world wars, to the famous big beat dances of the swinging Sixties - the show captured it all.

Scenes of love, heartbreak, celebration, grief, music and dancing were interspersed with snippets of some of the favourite productions seen on the Marine stage over the years.

Lyme Regis Musical Theatre presented a number from ‘The Mikado’ ahead of their 100th anniversary next year, while the Marine Players added a festive touch with the ‘12 Days of Christmas’ scene from last year’s ‘A Christmas Carol’.

Youngsters from the Lyme School of Ballet added the cute factor with their opening numbers and Lyme Regis Pantomime Society in-

jected some slapstick humour with their singalongs.

Writer Andy appeared on stage as a narrator, adding context to the nostalgic photos and videos shown on a projector screen behind, which had whispers of fond memories circling the audience and Dad nudging me, saying “I was there”.

Making her Lyme Regis directorial debut in what would surely be a mammoth challenge for even the most experienced, Georgia Robson also made vocal appearances throughout as she tried to keep her cast on track during the ‘technical rehearsal’, giving the audience a glimpse of life behind the scenes.

Musical director Declan Duffy also took to the stage in a number of roles, including as London promoter Bob Alexander who brought some of the biggest names in pop to the Marine during the 1960s.

The core cast of Emily Blech (Alice), Kat Hobbs (Rosie), Bertie Oldfield (Robbie), Leon Howe (Jack), Harry Poore (Christian), and Gemma Jones (Dora) took audiences through the decades with their dance routines, costume changes and tales of courtship.

And the cleverly-selected programme of music - much of which was performed live by members of B Sharp and Saxminster - had the audience singing along to everything from Vera Lynn to The Beatles. The phrase “something to suit all tastes” has never been more fitting!

An incredible community effort to celebrate a theatre that has been at the heart of Lyme Regis for so many years.

CAST: Emily Blech (Alice), Kat Hobbs (Rosie), Bertie Oldfield (Robbie), Leon Howe (Jack), Harry Poore (Christian), Gemma Jones (Dora), Brian Rattenbury (Stage Crew), Val Christmas (Stage Manager), Steve Rattenbury (Stage Crew), John Gooden (Shakespeare), John Simpson (Drill Sergeant), Phil Christmas (Terry), plus Maya Pieris, John Murphy, Tracey Blech, Jenny Waldron, David Sproule and Margaret Morgan, LYME REGIS PANTOMIME SOCIETY: Lorraine Knowles, Stuart Knowles, Louise Rawlins, Cathryn Brooks, Dave Street.

LYME SCHOOL OF BALLET: Junior Company Snowflakes - Madi Apps, Lily Barton, Tallulah Chinneck, Freya Harp, Millie Harp, Ivy Hartford, Tanisha-Leigh Parsons, Freddie McMahon, Esme Skevington, Ellen Smith, Hazel Spencer, Annabel Sydenham, Tia Trinca, Cordie Tunbridge.

Senior Company Snowflakes - Carys Bennett, Rosa Lunch, Daisy Merrett, Freya Morgan, Maddie Robinson, Lucie Sivier-Voller, Esme Skevington, Klara Smith.

LYME REGIS MUSICAL THEATRE: Johanna Hopkins, Susan Wiscombe, Anita Routley,

Trudi Robson, Nicole Parkinson-Ward, Yvonne Marsh, Carys Lowe, John Routley, Richard Farraday, Brian Rattenbury.

MARINE PLAYERS: Anouska Galvin-Mayes, Ariana Finn, Lucy Smith, Millie Ashford, Fred Humphrey, David Ruffle, Margaret Morgan, Anne King, Juliet Henham, Brian Rattenbury, Steve Rattenbury, Linda Crawford, Jon Doody, Barbara Green, Cherine Hill.

B SHARP: Harvey Causley, Jack Beale, Russ Bracey, Frank Adlam, Luke Pemberton, Freya Morgan.

SAXMINSTER: Jake Causley, Jackie Ensall, Dennis Bye, Oscar Gordon-Christopher, Mark Gordon Christopher.

PRODUCTION CREW: Andy Rattenbury (writer), Georgia Robson (director), Declan Duffy (musical director), Rose May (costume design), Steve Miller (lighting and sound), Imogen Wallis (projector operator, Jo Oliver-Smith (stage manager), Dayana Macbeth (stage crew), Mike Stainer (pianist), Adrian Hillier (musical genius).

WRITER Andy Rattenbury acted as a narrator as effective photos and videos from the Marine’s history were shown on a projector screen behind Photos by John Puckey

JOHN Simpson as the drill sergeant with the core cast behind during scenes depicting Lyme’s roles in the two world wars

MUSICAL director Declan Duffy appears on stage as London promoter Bob Alexander who brought the Big Beat dances to the Marine

The Harbour Inn - celebrating 15 years in Lyme!

timeoutinLyme

Friday, December 20 2019 17

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ART | MUSIC | THEATRE | WHAT’S ON | COMPETITIONS

Packed programme planned for Artsreach’s 30th year NEXT year will see Dorsetbased charity Artsreach celebrate 30 years of bringing professional live performances to rural communities across the county.

Launched in March 1990, the first Artsreach season featured just nine events in a handful of rural venues.

Now, 30 years later, the brand new Artsreach spring programme features more than 75 events from over 30 exciting companies and performers, set to visit 50 rural communities and perform in village halls, churches, pubs and other community spaces right across Dorset.

With the support of the Arts Council and Dorset Council, plus local solicitors Blanchards Bailey, rural venues across the county will host a variety of live music, theatre, dance, storytelling, poetry, cabaret and family shows in the heart of their communities.

Music lovers can enjoy a real medley of styles and genres from both national and international musicians, including The People’s String Foundation, Brazilian group Alvorada, the Neil Maya Jazz Quartet, Belgian instrumentalists WÖR, North American vocal harmony group Windborne, folk duo Kit Hawes & Aaron Catlow,

Cajun country and blues band the Cajun Roosters Trio, and Artsreach favourites Chris Garrick and John Etheridge.

Artsreach will also continue their partnership with the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra, bringing the Resonate Strings Quartet and Trio of Flute, Viola and Harp to venues across the Dorset. Together Artsreach, the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra will also host a dementia friendly Cake Concert.

For theatre-goers, French-English duo Spitz & Co are back with ‘Les Gloriables, their riotously funny show inspired by Victor Hugo’s novel. Gonzo Moose return with a brand new comic fairytale adventure in ‘Once Upon a Time’, and award-winning actor Pip Utton goes on a journey of smiles, laughter, respect and tears in ‘And Before I Forget I Love You, I Love You’.

Following their hit show ‘Great Train Robbery’, Scratchworks present the raucous and hilarious tale of the first female resistance in ‘WOMANS’.

African Caribbean company Tangle share a daring tale of trickery and avarice in a bitingly fresh version of Ben Jonson’s comedy ‘Volpone’, and the Cornish Owdyado Theatre present an anarchic night of hilariously dark comedies in ‘Twisted Tales 2’.

Finally, acclaimed actor Rhodri Miles offers a fascinating exploration of Shakespeare’s Shylock in Gareth Armstrong’s moving and hilarious award-winning play.

Sadhana Dance neatly stitches together dance, medicine and science to explore the unseen world of the operating theatre in ‘Under My Skin’. All singing, all dancing string quartet Bowjangles presents a magical and theatrical musical journey through myths and legends in ‘Excalibow’, and acclaimed storyteller James Rowland tours with ‘Revelations’, the third in his series of multi-award winning shows.

Storyteller Emily Hennessey and sitar player Sheema Mukhrejee conjure up a wild and beguiling world in a retelling of the much-loved Indian epic ‘The Ramayana’. Performer Peter Gill presents ‘The Wit and Songs of Noel Coward’ through anecdotes and songs, while The Ridgeway Singers & Band invite you to join them for ‘Tea with William Barnes’, in celebration of the Dorset poet’s birthday.

Together British author Andy Morgan and Alhousseini Anivolla, lead singer of desert blues band Etran Finatawa, present a multimedia musical show in ‘The Walking Man’. Acclaimed soundscapers Minima provide a live musical sound score to two popular silent films; the 1922 horror ‘Nosferatu’ and Alfred Hitchcock’s 1927 thriller ‘The Lodger’.

LYME RE REGIS, GISS, PUT YO YOUURR

Join us for food, craft beer and cocktails.

Music kicks offf around 8.30pm

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

And finally, Artsreach continues their poetry and pint sessions in rural pubs with performances by Jonny Fluffypunk and Luke Wright.

There’s plenty for families to see too, with four brilliant productions touring Dorset in the New Year and during February half term.

Combining dance, humour and spoken word, Protein Dance presents their version of the world-famous story of ‘The Little Prince’. With frolics, flitting and flying, the Last Baguette present ‘The Bird Show’, a madcap and touching show about birds facing changes to their habitats.

Dorset-based storyteller Michele O’Brien weaves her magic in a captivating and gripping tale about ‘The Ark and Dove’, and their journeys across the sea from the Isle of Wight to Maryland. Finally, weaving threads of Devon folklore with shape-shifting puppetry, Angel Heart Theatre presents the enchanting tale of ‘Mazymeg & The Honeybees’.

Finally Artsreach will kick off its programme of special celebratory birthday fundraising events with an Anniversary Ceilidh at Ashton Barn, Martinstown, in March. Expect music and calling from a few familiar faces, and a delicious ploughmans supper thanks to Dike & Son in Stalbridge.

This is just a taster of everything happening around Dorset with Artsreach this spring. Full details and tickets are available from www.artsreach.co.uk and various outlets, including Lyme Regis Tourist Information Centre, where you can pick up a copy of the programme.

You can also find Artsreach on Facebook and Twitter to keep up to date with the latest news.

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18 Friday, December 20 2019

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ART | MUSIC | THEATRE | WHAT’S ON | COMPETITIONS

What’s on

Friday, December 20

Knit & Knatter Lyme Regis Library, 2.30pm A friendly group who meet weekly to chat and knit over a cup of tea - all welcome.

Christmas Disney Disco Woodmead Halls, 5.30pm Dress as your favourite character and meet Elsa, Ana and Father Christmas at this special event in aid of Lyme Regis Pantomime Society. Full details and tickets available at https://bit.ly/2Pt6XuC Carol Singing SWIM, 5.30pm Members of local music charity B Sharp will be performing Christmas carols at SWIM on Marine Parade.

Friday @ The Pilot The Pilot Boat, 9pm Weekly live music nights at the Pilot Boat, this week with Epiphany Strange.

Saturday, December 21

Cinema: ‘White Christmas’ Marine Theatre, 6.30pm A free community screening of the Bing Crosby Christmas classic. Book your free tickets by calling 01297 442138. Bar opens 6.30pm for 7.30pm screening.

Live DJs @ SWIM SWIM, 9pm DJ Tomjuno and friends perform every Saturday night at SWIM on Marine Parade.

Saturday @ The Pilot The Pilot Boat, 9pm Weekly live music nights at the Pilot Boat, this week with Jess & Irve.

Live Music @ The Nag’s Head The Nag’s Head, 9pm Local band Delta Tango 7 perform their last gig before taking a hiatus at the Nag’s pre-Christmas party.

Sunday, December 22

Sunday Craft Market The Pilot Boat, 10am A weekly Sunday craft market at the Pilot Boat Inn, Lyme Regis. Call 01297 443157 to book a stall.

Live DJs @ SWIM SWIM, 12noon DJ James Baker and friends perform a chilled out set every Sunday afternoon at SWIM on Marine Parade.

Light Up Your Life St Michael’s Parish Church, 4pm Carol and remembrance service held in association with the Weldmar Hospicecare Trust.

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

Monday, December 23

Carols Around the Tree Broad Street, 7pm All welcome to join traditional carol singing around the Broad Street Christmas tree, accompanied by Lyme Regis Town Band.

Organised by the Rotary Club of Lyme Regis with hot soup available in the interval.

Tuesday, December 24

Christmas Eve Crib Service St Michael’s Parish Church, 4pm A short, informal, family-friendly service.

Midnight Mass St Michael’s Parish Church, 11pm Welcome in Christmas with this annual service including traditional carols.

Wednesday, December 25

Christmas Day Eucharist St Michael’s Parish Church, 10am Celebrate the season with this special Christmas Day service.

Christmas Day Swim Charmouth beach, 11am A Christmas Day dip in aid of the RNLI, with optional fancy dress. Swimmers should ar-

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

rive by 10.30am for an 11am sharp start and spectators are also advised to arrive early to ensure they don’t miss out!

Friday, December 27

Friday @ The Pilot The Pilot Boat, 9pm Weekly live music nights at the Pilot Boat.

Saturday, December 28

Live DJs @ SWIM SWIM, 9pm DJ Tomjuno and friends perform every Saturday night at SWIM on Marine Parade.

Sunday, December 29

Live DJs @ SWIM SWIM, 12noon DJ James Baker and friends perform a chilled out set every Sunday afternoon at SWIM on Marine Parade.

Tuesday, December 31

New Year’s Eve Party SWIM, 9pm Live music from Mr Jean at SWIM’s New Year’s Eve party. Tickets costing £12 are limited and can be bought in advance from the bar, or £15 on the door depending on availability.

Wednesday, January 1 2020

New Year’s Day Duck Race Windsor Terrace, 12noon A duck race in aid of Lyme Regis Christmas Lights Committee, starting at Higher Mill Flats on Windsor Terrace.

Lyme Morris Performance Marine Parade 12noon Lyme Morris will entertain outside the Harbour Inn on the seafront.

The Lyme Lunge Lyme Regis beach, 1pm A New Year’s Day dip in the sea, organised by the Rotary Club of Lyme Regis, with optional fancy dress. Swimmers and spectators are advised to arrive early for a 1pm sharp dash to the water.

Friday, January 3

Friday @ The Pilot The Pilot Boat, 9pm Weekly live music nights at the Pilot Boat.

Saturday, January 4

Live DJs @ SWIM SWIM, 9pm DJ Tomjuno and friends perform every Saturday night at SWIM on Marine Parade.

Sunday, January 5

Live DJs @ SWIM SWIM, 12noon DJ James Baker and friends perform a chilled out set every Sunday afternoon at SWIM on Marine Parade.

Live DJs @ SWIM SWIM, 12noon DJ James Baker and friends perform a chilled out set every Sunday afternoon at SWIM on Marine Parade.

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

Friday, January 10

U3A Talk: ‘Post War New Towns - heroic architecture or concrete mistakes?’

Woodmead Halls, 11am Matthew Denny gives a talk for the Lyme Regis U3A. Entry free for members, £2 for non-members, with tea/coffee to be served before from 10am.

Knit & Knatter Lyme Regis Library, 2.30pm A friendly group who meet weekly to chat and knit over a cup of tea - all welcome.

Friday @ The Pilot The Pilot Boat, 9pm Weekly live music nights at the Pilot Boat.

LYME Bay Chorale and guest professional musicians entertain in St Michael’s Parish Church for their annual Christmas concert Photo by Andrew Blackmore

Lyme Bay Chorale spreads joy with Christmas concert Concert review

by Richard Godfrey

LAST Sunday afternoon a capacity audience in St Michael’s Church was treated to a magnificent feast of joyful music, directed by Alex Davies.

Lyme Bay Chorale (LBC) were on top form, singing with precision, perfect tuning and obvious enjoyment of great music. They were joined by professional guests to provide a small but very effective orchestra of strings, woodwind and continuo. Timpani and trumpets behind the choir added terrific excitement, and almost ear-splitting volume at times!

The undoubted star of the show was Philippa Hyde, one of LBC’s distinguished patrons. Her beautiful voice was heard in solos throughout the first half of the concert, and she also generously joined with the full chorus during the Hadyn Mass in the second half.

Each of her solos demonstrated outstanding musicality coupled with apparently effortless technique. Her performance of the seldom-heard Handel aria ‘Haec est Regina Virginum’ was espe-

cially memorable – a lovely gentle lilting piece reminiscent of the ‘Water Music’, accompanied by strings and tastefully played organ continuo.

The three major works in the concerts shared a joyful theme.

First was Handel’s cantata ‘Laudate Pueri Dominum’ (‘Praise the Lord ye servants’), based on Psalm 112 and written when the composer was only 22 during his highly productive time in Rome.

This was a perfect piece to show off the choir, with some splendid choruses interspersed with soprano solos containing imitative exchanges between voice and instruments.

Then came J.S. Bach’s glorious celebration of the Nativity – the first chorus of the first part of his Christmas Oratorio, ‘Jauchzet, Frohlocket’ (‘Shout for Joy, exult’). Starting with three great bangs on the timpani, this is a movement of uninterrupted joy.

Alex Davies set a fine fast tempo and the choir responded magnificently. I do hope that LBC will include more of this superb oratorio in a future Christmas concert.

After the interval, Haydn’s ‘Heiligmesse’ was an excellent

and ambitious choice. The six movements gave prominence to some fine singing by the visiting soloists (Kate Barnes, Rachel Bennett, Paul Tindall, David Fouracre and Julian Sutton).

There were also some moving and quieter moments for the choir to show they could sing at less than the exuberant volume of most the concert! Almost at the end there was a particularly good example with the Latin word ‘pacem’ (peace): here Alex skillfully brought choir and orchestra down to pianissimo, before a final outburst of joy.

It is always difficult when reporting a fine concert to single out particular participants, but I must mention the two Axminster Peters (Parshall and Lea-Cox), who provided impeccable backing from chamber organ and electronic harpsichord.

I’d also like to mention a certain eight-year-old closely related to Alex and Alison Davies – their daughter, Cecilia – who sang in the front row with energy, obvious musicianship, and excitement. With such young talent coming along, the future is bright.

Friday, December 20 2019 19

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In memory of Mary...

FILM FUNDING TO BE SPLIT BETWEEN PROJECTS HONOURING FOSSIL HUNTER FRANCESCA EVANS

francesca@lyme-online.co.uk

THREE projects in memory of Lyme Regis’ most famous daughter, fossil hunter Mary Anning, are to benefit from £15,000 grant funding.

Following negotiations with Lyme Regis Town Council, production company Fossil Films Ltd donated £15,000 in return for transforming several areas of the town, including Bell Cliff, into a film set for the film ‘Ammonite’.

The scenes, starring Oscar-winning actress Kate Winslet as Lyme’s famous fossil hunter Mary Anning, were shot in Lyme Regis in March and the film is expected to be released in 2020.

The town council were tasked with distributing the funds and invited local organisation to apply, with the Mayor, Councillor Brian Larcombe MBE, saying he wanted the money to be used to “support a worthy project or cause to create a lasting legacy for Lyme Regis”.

Eight local organisations made their bids in November and the council made a final decision on how the money should be spent on Wednesday.

Members agreed to split the £15,000 evenly between three proposals that they felt were the most appropriate to receive the funding, as they each had a connection to Mary Anning, The winning proposals were as follows: Axminster & Lyme Cancer Support – This local charity sup-

OSCAR winning actresses Kate Winslet pictured meeting local schoolchildren while filming Photo by Janet Wraith scenes for ‘Ammonite’ in Lyme Regis ports those facing the diagnosis and impact of cancer, and will use the grant funding to set up Mary Anning’s Beach Hut. This will be a seafront beach hut available to book through the charity for anyone affected by cancer, providing space by the sea to relax and spend time with family. The hut would be named after Mary Anning, who died of breast cancer aged 47.

Mary Anning Rocks – This campaign was inspired by fossil-mad Dorset schoolgirl Evie with the hope of erecting a statue of Mary Anning in Lyme Regis. Initial plans for the statue have recently been scaled back and it is now expected to cost between £55,000 and £75,000, which would be raised via a Crowdfunder campaign to be launched in the New Year.

The group requested £5,000 of the

‘Ammonite’ funding for educational workshops and to commission an artist’s impression and maquette of the statue.

Mary Anning Scholarship Fund – The scholarship fund will support students from Lyme Regis attending higher education to study earth sciences or STEM subjects (science, technology, engineering, maths). It would specifically help those who are not currently well represented in these fields, particularly women from less advantaged backgrounds, honouring the legacy of Mary Anning by offering local young people the opportunity that she was not awarded within her lifetime.

Bids from B Sharp, Lyme Regis Gig Club, Lyme Regis Musical Theatre, the Town Mill Trust and Woodroffe School PTFA were unsuccessful.

JOSHUA Denning (right) pictured with his younger brother Jacob who regularly supports him fundraising for local events and charities

Joshua raises £4,000 for local good causes LYME Regis teenager Joshua Denning has raised more than £4,000 for local good causes this year.

Joshua enjoys taking part and supporting all the major local events and festivals, where he is regularly seen with his collection bucket.

This year alone he has raised a total of £4,121.61, including during Lifeboat Week, Regatta & Carnival Week, Guitars on the Beach, bonfire night and other festivals.

Joshua, a pupil at Mountjoy School in Beaminster, is regularly supported by his younger brother Jacob, who attends the Woodroffe School.

The pair will start their 2020 fundraising efforts by taking part in the Rotary Club’s Lyme Lunge on New Year’s Day, which will also be Joshua’s 16th birthday.

Their mum Annette would like to thank all those who support both the boys in their fundraising efforts.

Lights, camera, action...

Lyme Sights & Sounds

SOUP AND SWEET LUNCH Saturday 18 January 2020 Woodmead Halls £6

PIZZA NIGHT AT THE PILOT BOAT

Tuesday 18 February 2020 Choice of 2 pizzas and a glass of wine - £12 Phone 07796 951991 for tickets

THE BIG BREAKFAST

Friday 20 March 2020 Woodmead Halls 8am - 1pm Full English with orange juice and toast £7 Bacon roll £3 – We can deliver Thank you to everyone who supported our events in 2019

A new multi-media channel bringing your local news alive!

Videos of all major local events ● Topical podcasts on the latest news ● Colourful photo galleries ●

Now live on the LymeOnline website

lyme-online.co.uk

www.lyme-online.co.uk

thegreenpage

Friday, December 20 2019 21

LymeOnline recognises climate change and environmental concerns as one of the most important current issues faced by our local community and across the globe. Although the paper that LymeOnline is printed on is already largely recycled (see page 2), we encourage our readers to re-use your paper when you’ve finished reading. Here’s just a few imaginative ideas on how you can use old newspapers: 1) Make eco-chic newspaper paper chains for Christmas.

2) Use it to wrap presents and tie them with string 3) Make paper pots for seedlings 4) Turn a boring toilet wall into a colourful one, filled with interesting stories 5) Make a newspaper leaf garland 6) Make a set of eco-friendly award rosettes for work or school 7) Use them to line cat litter boxes or shread for a hamster cage 8) Use them as packing material, instead of plastic.

9) Line cupboard or shed shelves with them 10) Use them to draught-proof gappy window frames 11) Add them to compost to absorb liquid from the wet ingredients 12) Keep a pile of papers in your car, for wheel traction if you get stuck in snow or ice 13) Put them around tender new plants to protect from frost 14) Plugging gaps in floorboards before lino or carpet is laid 15) Scrunch up as firestarters on open fires, or to get BBQ going 16) Line your fruit and vegetable drawers 17) Use them to clean windows, it's an old fashioned wonder!

18) Get creative: make small, loosely wrapped flowers for a wedding decorations 19) Look up how to make papier mâché and let your imagination run wild!

20) Make beakers and boxes more funky with decoupage 21) Pick your dog mess up with them, screw up and deposit in the bin

Re-use or recycle your copy of LymeOnline when you have finished reading it!

Turn Lyme Green members attend plastic free awards ceremony TWO representatives from Turn Lyme Green’s Plastic Free Lyme Regis were invited to attend the world’s first Plastic Free Awards held by marine conservation charity Surfers Against Sewage and the Iceland Foods Charitable Foundation.

The awards highlighted those who have made a huge impact on the plastic-free movement, with the help of hundreds of public nominations.

We’d been shortlisted for the Plastic Free Communities award and although we didn’t win, pipped by Plastic Free Penzance, it was such an honour to be there.

The awards were designed to recognise and celebrate the groundswell of community awareness and action on the issue of plastic pollution over the last two years.

Award winners included Lewis Pugh, United Nations Patron of the Oceans; youth campaigners Ella and Caitlin McEwan, who successfully petitioned for the removal of plastic toys from fast food kids’ meals; and Sir David Attenborough for his services to Planet Ocean, influencing the world to take action on plastic pollution.

It was a wonderful evening and we were able to share information, swap tips and enjoy the company of like- minded individuals and companies that are really getting to grips on what needs to be done.

We also realised just how well Lyme Regis has done. We were the 23rd Surfers Against Sewage Plastic Free Community to try and tackle removing single use plastic; there are over 600 communities now and growing.

We had the support of our town council from the start, and by facilitating various initiatives we’ve pretty much removed polystyrene takeaway cartons, plastic straws and have increased our compostable coffee cups or introduced refill cups in Lyme Regis

and Uplyme.

We’re eliminating plastic bags from our shopping cycle, helped by the new Boomerang Bag scheme (see below). We’ve introduced a wider awareness of environmental issues that need to be addressed for us to reduce climate change, clean up our seas and countryside and help our planet to survive.

Schools, shops and businesses have signed up to learn more and participate and everyone in our community has started to make changes by learning more and making a contribution by reducing their plastic use.

Sharing what we’ve learnt and done has helped five other communities start their own schemes.

Broadcaster and Plastic Free Awards judge Gillian Burke said: “The tide is slowly turning in the fight against plastic pollution and now, more than ever, we need to be empowered to help kick our singleuse plastic habit.

“Celebrating the heroic efforts of campaigners, volunteers and communities who have stepped up to the challenge is one way to inspire us all into being the change we’d like to see. Massive congratulations to award winners!”

We didn’t win, this time, however Lyme Regis you not only took part, but you have started to make a real difference and you should be very proud of yourselves, a very big thank you from us all!

Karen Durham-Diggins Plastic Free Lyme Regis

Boomerang Bags initiative gathering pace THE Boomerang Bag initiative is gathering strength in Lyme Regis and Uplyme.

To help and remind people how easy the scheme is, organisers from Plastic Free Lyme Regis have launched a social media campaign using one of the posters (pictured left) designed by local children to promote the scheme.

Polly Benefield, of Plastic Free Lyme Regis Strategy Group, said: “This poster from Phoenix in Year 6 at Mrs Ethelston’s didn’t meet the criteria for the poster competition but we thought it was such a vibrant, clear story board explaining exactly how the Boomerang Bags scheme worked, we wanted to use it.”

The campaign, launched in time for Christmas and supporting local shopping, can be seen on various Facebook sites, Twitter and Instagram.

Look out for Phoenix’s storyboard and the following text: “Out Christmas shopping locally, not enough hands to hold all your Xmas goodies? You can

borrow and bring back a Boomerang Bag! Not sure what this is or how it works? Here is a cheering story for you to find out more from Phoenix, one of our amazing school kids who helped us launch this campaign!”

Polly added: “Boomerang Bags use unwanted fabric, preventing it from going into landfill, they help promote local shopping and bring communities together in creating and using them – a win for everyone including the environment!”

Since the Boomerang Bag launch in Lyme Regis, 23 shops, B&Bs, hotels, cafés and other businesses have signed up to stock the bags and there are more than 200 in circulation, with four more sewers signed up to make more bags.

If you’d like to join the Boomerang Bag Scheme by stocking them, making them or helping to distribute them, email info@plasticfreelyme.uk

Lyme Regis is proud to be a leading town in eco-friendly initiatives

22 Friday, December 20 2019

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Take a trip down Lyme memory lane...

A

C B E F

CAN you spot any familiar faces in this page of old photos of Lyme? Or perhaps you are in one of the pictures?

PHOTO A: Possibly taken in Kings Way in the 1950s, a fancy dress parade but for what celebration? Is that Winkle Solway in the bonnet in the foreground?

PHOTO B: One of the classes at St Michael’s Junior School, perhaps late 1950s. Who’s the school master on the left?

PHOTO C: No prizes for guessing who’s in this photo - me and two of my best mates growing up, Dave Reed (left) and Richard Hodder (fourth from the left). We were helping to raise money in a balloon race for the Boys’ Club, pictured with the Curate, the Reverend Kenneth Rowcroft. I can’t remember the gentleman on the right.

PHOTO D: Lyme Regis Cubs with Scoutmaster Ernest Hallett, maybe late 40s. That’s former journalist David Cozens MBE bottom left.

PHOTO E: Lyme Regis Football Club, again circa 1950s. Does anyone know who the mascot is sitting on Henry Broom’s lap.

Could it have been his son John, now a local councillor? Who can identify them all?

PHOTO F: Not long after the war finished, members of the Lyme Regis branch of the Royal British Legion set out on an outing.

Philip Evans

D

Friday, December 20 2019 23

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Christmas Greetings from

the Traders of Lyme Regis

We would like to thank everyone who has supported us over the past year and wish you all a very Merry Christmas. We look forward to continuing to provide you with the best possible service we can in the coming year.

We shall be working every day over the Christmas and New Year period with the exception of Christmas Day, which we shall be spending with our family.

With best wishes to you all, Nev & Sarah

01297 642011

Season’s Greeting to all our customers and a Prosperous New Year

We’re open every day as normal except Boxing Day, open from 10am Free Christmas Day lunch for those wanting company and community

A very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all our clients We look forward to seeing you in 2020 www.inharmonylymeregis.co.uk 01297 445138 57 Silver Street, Lyme Regis DT7 3HR

Thank you to all our customers and wishing you a very happy Christmas!

20% off gifts in store until December 31st 2019

Christmas opening hours:

Open Christmas Eve 11am-2pm Closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day and December 27th Open December 28th - 30th, 11am-3pm Closed New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day Open from 11am January 2nd onwards

A very Merry Christmas to all our players, committee members and supporters

Colourflair This Christmas may you understand God’s plan for you Call Jacquie Payne on 01297 445533 for colour consultation appointments

Sue, Mark and all the staff at the Harbour Inn wish all their customers a very Happy Christmas and a Prosperous New Year

To book call 01297 442299 harbourinnlymeregis.co.uk

Wishing all our guests a Happy Christmas and a Prosperous New Year Silver Street, Lyme Regis DT7 3HS 01297 442753 enquiries@hotellymeregis.co.uk

Season’s Greetings from David and Trish at

HOLMBUSH CAFE Christmas opening

December 27th to January 4th 10.30am - 3pm

Christmas Greetings to all our customers 1 BRIDGE STREET, LYME REGIS DT7 3QA 01297 443157 - www.thepilotboat.co.uk

N E W LO OK

LYM E RE G I S

A joyful Christmas to one and all

TERRY’S TAXI

Seasons Greetings, and a Happy and Healthy New Year, to all our customers old and new, from Terry’s Taxis 01297 443167 ● 07502 262206

Christmas Greetings to all hall users and we look forward to your continued support in 2020

24 Friday, December 20 2019

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LYME REGIS TOWN COUNCIL Looking ahead to the New Year WE’RE looking ahead to the next few years with renewed energy as the local community has shown its support for the projects we’re hoping to achieve.

Over several weeks, we’ve been talking to the public about our plans and objectives for the next five years.

We held an open afternoon at the Woodmead Halls and asked all our Lyme Voice participants to take part in a survey.

We’re really pleased the feedback has shown we’re on the right track and the work will start now to fulfil our ambitions.

One of the most popular proposals was to explore the possibility of a free town bus and a Saturday service.

The council heavily subsidises the number 71 town bus and the vast majority who use it have a concessionary bus pass. We’re considering increasing the subsidy and offering free travel to Gateway Card holders.

You also told us we need to be better at engaging with residents and businesses in

Lyme so we can properly understand your views, so we’re planning on developing a community engagement strategy to outline how we’ll do this.

Our plans for tree planting, re-wilding and wildflower planting in council green spaces was also a popular project, which would run alongside the refurbishment of the Langmoor and Lister Gardens.

You also liked the idea of us working with Dorset Waste Partnership to improve signage on the waste bins on the seafront. All the waste from the bins is recycled, but better signage is needed to make this clearer.

Green initiatives were well-supported, including proposals to introduce electric charging points in our car parks and on land we own, replacing all our vehicles with electric vehicles, and moving to green utility providers.

You also recognised the importance of park and ride to the town. The council’s park and ride currently operates from Charmouth

Road and we must secure the long-term future of this facility and consider alternative sites.

These are just a selection of the ideas we discussed with the community and there was also an opportunity to make suggestions.

We weren’t at all surprised that traffic was the biggest issue, followed by dogs, parking, and the cinema.

Many of the comments were about issues that aren’t the town council’s responsibility, such as recycling, the pedestrian crossing, affordable housing and pavements.

While we are able to work with partners such as Dorset Council and Dorset Waste Partnership to address local issues and apply pressure where it’s needed, we have no control over other organisations.

The full results of the public consultation are available on our website www.lymeregistowncouncil.gov.uk

Council crowns mini golf champ!

Christmas tree festival to raise funds for the mayor’s chosen charity

THE mayor’s charity will benefit from any donations we receive at this year’s Christmas Tree Festival.

The annual festival will be held in the Pine Hall at the Baptist Church from Friday 20 to Sunday 22 December, when local good causes will decorate a tree to promote themselves and raise money for their organisation.

As usual, the council will be taking part and decorating a tree, this year in support of the mayor’s chosen charity, Children’s Hospice South West.

Entry is free but visitors are encouraged to make donations to the individual organisations.

Please come along to the festival and show your support for all the local organisations, who work hard throughout the year to make Lyme Regis the special place it is.

It is a very special and joyful event, with over 500 people visiting each year, demonstrating true community spirit.

The festival will be open from 11am to 4pm on Friday and Saturday, and from midday to 8.30pm on Sunday.

Are you interested in becoming a councillor?

A NEW mini golf champion has been named after the annual staff tournament.

Each year the town council staff challenge each other to a round of mini golf in Lister Gardens.

The 2017 winner Mick Heneghan, who

Free parking for shoppers

MAKE the most of the free parking available in Lyme Regis this weekend and support local traders in the run-up to Christmas.

We're pleased to be working in partnership with Dorset Council to provide free parking in Woodmead, Holmbush, Broad Street and Cobb Gate car parks on 21 and 22 December.

We hope it will encourage people to shop, eat and drink in the town this festive season.

works at the mini golf hut, was aiming to win back the title after losing the trophy to finance assistant Naomi Cleal in 2018.

Mick took the top spot this year, completing the course with an impressive score of 37, although this was no challenge to the

course record of 32.

At the other end of the scoreboard, it was a three-way battle to avoid the wooden spoon, which eventually went to our temporary administrative assistant Jackie King, on her first day at work!

WE were pleased to welcome the leader of Dorset Council to Lyme Regis last month to discuss issues affecting the town and county.

Cllr Spencer Flower was invited to meet with the council as part of the members’ training and induction programme, which has also included a meeting with former West Dorset MP Sir Oliver Letwin.

Cllr Flower spoke to us about Dorset Council’s plan and the issues facing the authority.

Members asked questions about matters concerning the town, including the future of public services such as public toilets, the tourist information centre, grants to local organisations, and the harbour.

The induction programme will continue with a meeting with the Dorset police and crime commissioner Martyn Underhill early in the new year.

Working with new Dorset Council

IF you’re interested in becoming a town councillor, now is your chance to join the council.

Notice has officially been given of a councillor vacancy following the resignation of our deputy mayor, Cllr Jeff Scowen, on 16 December.

The first step in the process to fill the seat is to determine if an election will be held – for this to happen, at least 10 electors must make a written request to the returning officer at Dorset Council by 10 January.

If the 10 requests aren’t made, the town council will select a new councillor, a process known as co-option.

But if an election is called, it will take place no later than 16 March.

Requests for an election must be made in writing to the Returning Officer, South Walks House, South Walks Road, Dorchester, Dorset, DT1 1UZ. If you want to find out more about being a town councillor, please contact the council office or speak to one of our existing councillors.

See advertisement on page 30

Key services to continue over Christmas break

ESSENTIAL services and emergencies will be covered by the town council this festive season.

Although the office will be closed from midday on Christmas Eve until 9am on Monday 6 January, key services such as cleansing, dog and parking enforcement, and essential repairs will be maintained throughout this period.

Our emergency procedure will be deployed if necessary, and any important information will be announced on our website and social media, but we’re hoping it will be a peaceful and uneventful period.

The content on this page is promoted and provided by Lyme Regis Town Council

Friday, December 20 2019 25

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Supper raises £1,200 for reforestation charity LYME Regis pub and restaurant the Pilot Boat recently hosted a delicious three-course vegan supper to raise funds for local environmental charity, The Word Forest Organisation.

Led by manager Robin Collyns and vegan chef John Long, staff at the Pilot Boat served 65 guests.

Mr Collyns said: “The Word Forest are doing great work to keep climate chaos in check. All coastal communities are at risk of damage from sea rise.

“We’re hopeful our fundraiser will help to plant at least 240 trees".

The event went beyond all expectations and boosted by the Pilot Boat’s generous raffle prize of a two-course dinner for four with drinks, raising a total of £1,202.

This has enabled 480 new saplings to be planted in Kenya and bought construction materials to build their next school.

Chair of trustees at The Word Forest Organisation, Simon West, commented: "We're incredibly grateful to Robin, John and everyone who worked so hard to make the event successful and memorable.

“Planting trees in the tropics is a vital component to mitigating climate chaos. The 480 Pilot Boat trees will not only draw down and lock in around 120 tonnes of CO2 and other pollutants in a handful of years, but the commodities from them will also help reduce poverty and hunger: a mango tree, for example, at five years old will be around 12 feet tall and produce 100 pieces of fruit."

John thoroughly enjoyed creating the menu.

It included fish-free cakes and tempura sea veg with tartar sauce, followed by a vegan mess with burnt orange meringue, cream, fruit and a few little extras. Everyone agreed the food was jam-packed with flavour and imagination.

The Word Forest Organisation’s CEO Tracey West commented: "The tree planting communities we're working with will undoubtedly be

SIMON West from The Word Forest Organisation presents a tree planting certificate to Robin Collyns of The Pilot Boat following their successful vegan fundraising supper planting lots of fruit and nut trees, but also other drought resistant indigenous ones too.

“Desertification is swiftly creeping in. Many of the dusty roads that cut through rural East Kenya, used to be lined with palms and are now lined with cactus. We're doing all we can to build more resilience against the extreme weather challenges our tree planting friends are going to be faced with."

The Lyme Regis-based Word Forest Organisation will continue to focus their attention on planting in the tropics, but over the last month, they've also launched their local ‘Tree-Mend-Us Project’.

Horticultural trustee Phil Gamble explained:

"We recognise the urgent need to create habitats so biodiversity can flourish in the UK, too.

We recently distributed almost 1,000 saplings to Lyme Regis and three neighbouring ecogroups.

“Thanks to the mayor Brian Larcombe, Lyme Regis Town Council took 200 of them and their green-fingered landscaping team planted them in Langmoor Gardens, by Lepers Well at the Lynch, near the football club, Colway Lane and in other locations.”

For more details about future events and forthcoming community activities, visit WordForest.org.

Rotary Club makes annual donation of dictionaries to local schoolchildren THE Rotary Club of Lyme Regis has donated dictionaries to pupils of the local primary schools.

Year 6 pupils from St Michael’s in Lyme Regis, Mrs Ethelston’s in Uplyme, Charmouth and Marshwood primary schools have each received a copy of the Usborne Illustrated Dictionary.

The dictionaries have been presented to pupils every year since 2011, when the ‘Dictionaries 4 Life’ campaign was started by the Rotary Club. Since then, more than 750 dictionaries have been given as a lasting gift to the youth of the local community.

A spokesperson for the Rotary Club of Lyme Regis said: “We present the dictionaries in the first term of Year 6 in order that the schools can work with the pupils for the whole of the year in understanding how to get the most out of these excellent reference volumes.

“In recent years our friends in Axminster Rotary have also joined the Dictionary 4 Life project, supporting local schools in that town.

The project in our club is currently managed by Chris Buckingham. An inscription of each students’ name is made in the first page, beautifully done by Pam Moseley.”

If you have a story for LymeOnline call editor Francesca on 01297 442781

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THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO DORSET’S MOST POPULAR RESORT

The perfect present Find original gifts and experiences

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is a THE Coombe Street Gallery gifts and treasure trove of one-off unique home interiors. proving Their latest original piece, customers, is particularly popular with Lyme Regis, the shop’s new map of for the commissioned especially designed by and Coombe Street Gallery artist Clair Rossiter. is full of The map (pictured below)local colourful details, including and even landmarks, flowers, wildlife Anning makes famed fossil hunter Mary to buy as a an appearance! Available or on a bag, card framed print, greeting for it makes the perfect souvenir those with for gift a holidaymakers or Lyme at heart.

you’ll be able With the help of the map surrounds that to explore the history based in the the Coombe Street Gallery, Street was heart of ‘Old Lyme’. Coombe and street the town’s original high the old post nearby attractions includethe Town Mill, office and police station, and Lyme Regis Dinosaurland, Guildhall Museum. is now in full The Christmas season Street Gallery, swing at the Coombe and offering a range of decorations well as unique cards by local artists, as gifts and festive décor. to complete Find something special with the shop’s your seasonal party look jewellery, all solid large choice of stylish and stones of silver using a variety at mixed metals, and all available modest prices.

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

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

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

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

The current Guildhall, 16th century hall that built in 1887, stands on the site of the original would have seen witnessed the incredible the arrival of Monmouth and fight the locals put civil war. There are up during the plenty including the chamfered of original features that have been English retained, ceiling beams and, there is a 17th century in the main chamber, the same period and ship’s mast. The dais balustrade is also from there is a stone carving above the mayor’s of the Royal Stuart seat. arms But it’s what lies behind I walk past the heavily locked doors that interests me and each time studded black jail “The door of the old lock up which stood door, above which it says dark, dank rooms with skeletal remains here”, I have visions of cold, chained to walls.

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

- from craft something to suit all interests for to science kits QUICKLY building a reputation sets using British designs outdoor gifts to suit all inspiring and educational encouraging and inspiring is no ages and abilities, Puddleduck learning. characters ordinary toy shop.

You’ll also find favourite former and Peter Having moved from London,Clark such as Winnie the Pooh Tomi such as Orange early years co-ordinator Rabbit, popular ranges for Christmas, Drakes Way, just opened Puddleduck in Tree Toys and, especially Easter 2019. fillers and unique off Broad Street, over a selection of stocking all ages, but in The shop stocks toys for decorations. toys for particular focuses on sensory as well as those with special needs, toys and award-winning educational it particularly learning resources, making homeare popular with those who schooling. before you buy’ Tomi has adopted a ‘try available for policy, with many games at in store youngsters to have a go selection. before making their just for children.

But Puddleduck is not adult puzzles of There’s also a selection which can be and brain-training games, suffering those particularly helpful for following a from dementia or recovering stroke. cosy shop has Split over two floors, the

THE Grade II listed Guildhall, built in 1887, is one of Lyme’s most iconic buildings.

Here, a stone carving of the Royal Stuart arms sits above the mayor’s seat, with lists of past mayors either side

Regis Puddleduck Lyme

Inspired by land, sea and sky

Bath Society of of Marine Artists, the of the Royal Society South West Academy, and has just finof the mood and soul Artists and the at Chester Art Fair. her velop an understanding paintthe environment. ished a successful exhibition Oldfield travels and exhibits see a selection of Julie’s the ‘royal country and “The techniques I use have gone through a LYME Regis artist Julie Closer to home, you can and it was even given I Inn in Lyme Julie says: work all over the world, her latest exhibitions. phases over the years. display at The Harbour of at the Town number of developmental in using var- ings on permanent seal of approval’ at one Julie’s work was accepted started with canvass and became interested she regularly hosts exhibitions for next at the earth materials, nat- Regis, and For the third year running, two are already planned materials, site-specific Artists’ annual exhibition sea, pastels and Mill Malthouse, with for the Society of Women She displayed three paintings ious textural dipping works into the 15th and September 24th. from year opening on April I wanted.

Mall Galleries in London. on her pioneering techniques ural weathering, for Dorset Art Weeks to produce the effects She will also be exhibiting and received compliments of Kent, the society’s patron, spray paints of weathering and slow change drew me in October.

“The process of chemto June 7th and in Wimborne from HRH Princess Michael right). workmetal sheets and the effects founda- May 24th in September (pictured painting techniques in to to experiment with at the official opening Julie also teaches her and to create patination this year for membership istry, heat and weatheringdevelop with traditional art latest workshops, exhibitions Julie was also shortlisted shops. Details on her the final 12 candidates. her website could then span- tions that I techniques and use prints of her work are available on the exclusive society, reaching has a portfolio of work have been refining my Experienced artist Julie local seascapes to large tex- materials. I for different effects. www.julieoldfield.com metals from years, various different 20 bonfires, some ning My tools are “My garden is my studio. tural paintings of the Himalayas. the play of light on open alkalis, grinders, scrapers, Raised on a farm in England, conditions made a strong acids and sprays, nature and natnear brushes, pastels, Work can be left in my spaces and changing weather a young age. Now living impression on Julie fromwork is inspired by the Jurassic ural weathering. for weeks or months, develop her to of garden much Lyme Regis, possibilities. changing tones. of her opening up surface Coast’s large skies and and nature in on nature as the subject play a “Working with science As well as focussing unexpected results, natural processes to to this way often givesuneven heat of fires paintings, she also allows patination, fire and weathering especially with the part in her work, using me as challenging time, and exposure here achieve the final look. often incorporate materials create the work you see is Her mixed media paintings a unique character to each an artist to website. Every painting from the local area, providing however, is produced on and on my individual and hard to rework, very piece. Her most recent unique techniques of oxidiza- therefore produce.” metal, incorporating her extenwork her exhibited Julie has tion and fire on copper. are influenced by her ex- sively in the UK, as well as in Dubai and - an inJulie’s experimental paintings work Aside from having her six continents of the world tensive travels around with dangers and pitfalls of the Cape Town. the Society of Women accepted by spirational combination, to each piece of work. Artists, she has also exhibited with the to deunknown adding excitement local people helps her Working and living with

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New winter edition of the Lyme Life Magazine now available to pick up from various outlets in and around Lyme Regis Or read it online at www.lyme-online.co.uk

26 Friday, December 20 2019

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School’s environmental team working on new garden area

AS the winter approaches, the Woodroffe School’s Environmental Action Team (EAT) team have been out and about working on a new garden space that is being developed within the school grounds.

This is a challenging project but there is no doubt that the opened space already looks much improved on what was there before.

The students have also been busy planting trees as a measure to combat climate change. This is part of a national pro-

gramme by the Woodland Trust to plant trees across the country in order to tackle rising carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere.

Trees are an excellent addition to the school site and will provide a new niche for birds, a future habitat for insects and shade for students decades from now.

Projects for the new year will include reducing and recycling plastics as well as car sharing schemes.

Sixth form students compete in national mock trial challenge

LAST month, 15 sixth form students from the Woodroffe School in Lyme Regis visited Plymouth Crown Court for the National Bar Mock Trial competition, organised by Young Citizens, where they were prosecuting and defending two cases.

Once in court students competed in their school teams to convict or acquit a defendant.

This involved an opening and closing speech by the barristers and the use of an examination in chief and cross examination by the barristers to tear apart the credibility of the opposing team’s argument.

A spokesperson for the team said: “It all sounds like jolly good fun but being a barrister is stressful, when you are trying to remember the right questions to ask. Nevertheless Tommy, Henry, Dan, Clara and Holly did a

very good job as both prosecution and defence barristers.

Our witnesses were excellent and entertaining, and the speeches and examinations were effective. Alfie and Jamie, the defendants, were both acquitted, so they obviously had good barristers to defend them.

“Overall it was a very interesting day, as it gave us a great insight into the Criminal Justice System. It was also interesting to hear from the judges about what life at court can be like as a career.

“Thank you to Mr Watts for driving the minibus and to Mrs Cropp and our mentor, Mr Riley, who both ensured everyone in the team left the Court as more confident and accomplished people.”

Inspiration in St Ives OVER half term the Woodroffe School art department took sixth form students to St Ives for a fiveday tour of the key artistic venues in and around western Cornwall.

Despite a week of poor weather, the students visited every venue scheduled, indoors or outdoors, in a packed programme of learning experiences.

Activities included a clay throwing demonstration at the Bernard Leach Pottery, a guided visit to an underground Aqua Obscura at Tremenheere Sculpture Gardens, photography light drawing classes at Falmouth University and, as always, surf school on St Ives Beach.

Neil Armstrong, the owner of Tremenheere, took the group around the Sculpture Gardens giving the students a knowledgeable and warm talk about the landscape that he has created in a fantastic setting.

Staying at the Cohort Hostel, evenings provided a great opportunity for students and staff to draw and share ideas in the large lounge area that they shared with a school form East Grinstead.

The group also went to the cinema one evening and, as is now tradition, the staff cooked for the students one night, making vegan, dairy-free chilli with paprika wedges and dips that was well received.

On the final evening, having navigated the school minibus around the narrow Kernow lanes, the group arrived at the beautiful Minnack Theatre in good spirits and in time for dusk to settle across this magical setting and

make the most of the opportunity to take photographs and make drawings.

On the way home the next day the students managed to cross the causeway to St Michael's Mount to take part in a workshop at Falmouth University, in which they developed their photography skills creating light drawings as groups.

Richard Vine, head of art and digital technology at Woodroffe, said: “With so much to offer for artists, Cornwall is a great place to get creative and the students will use the experiences to guide their coursework ideas and get inspiration for the examination unit yet to come.

“Many thanks to the students for being such great company and to Mr Greenhough and Miss Burnett for helping make it all happen.”

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Friday, December 20 2019 27

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28 Friday, December 20 2019

FLASHBACKS with Richard Austin

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Tales from behind the lens of our award-winning photographer

Ten years of pocket pigs and they still have the cute factor!

THIS coming year will be the tenth year I have been photographing the miniature pigs of Pennywell Farm for a calendar.

This little piggy is December’s calendar picture for 2019.

A career in which I’ve photographed royalty, politicians, film stars and footballers, the little cute piglets are still holding their own especially in the United States of America where a calendar called ‘Pocket Pigs Calendar’ has sold tens of thousands across the

USA, Canada and Australia.

This year the calendar attracted the attention of Ellen DeGeneres, the most popular day time TV show host in the USA. It all started on farmer Chris Murray’s family attraction farm, called Pennywell in Buckfastleigh.

The American publisher ‘Workman’ of New York saw a picture of mine in the American press and so started a decade of photographing pigs, albeit little ones.

This picture was shot having built the set with false snow, props and a great deal of patience.

The pig’s stage name is Broderick and he was absolutely brilliant, totally unfazed and very well behaved - an advantage being that he has been cuddled by children and adults since he was born.

The piglets have been filmed for dozens of TV companies both home and overseas. The next shoot will be for 2022 calendar.

LymeOnline Letters

Send your letters to francesca@lyme-online.co.uk

GET INVOLVED WITH YOUR COMMUNIT Y PAPER

Dog beach ban will put off visitors ■ AS I live locally I visit Lyme Regis on many occasions. However, if the mayor gets his way and bans dogs from the beaches I am afraid to say that our family and friends, all who have dogs, will not be visiting Lyme Regis in the future. It feels like an unfriendly town when it comes to dogs.

I understand the problems that a few cause, but then so does smoking/vaping, as well as drinking outside. Are they going to be banned? I think not.

If this ban happens I see a lot of summer visitors staying away, going to other more dog friendly areas. With all that’s going on at present many more are staying in the UK and many more visitors could be expected in the future. Don't suffer because of the few.

I.A (Full name and address supplied)

Friday, December 20 2019 29

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NOTICE OF VACANCY IN OFFICE OF COUNCILLOR

SNOWMAN TREE ORNAMENT, Villeroy & Boch, new with box £5 - 07768 901 443.

BABYLISS HAIR STYLING WAND, used once, boxed and in perfect condition, £5 01297 445724.

LADIES TAP SHOES, black, size 6½, as new, £10 for quick sale - 01297 442198.

LYME REGIS TOWN COUNCIL

ROOF TILES, approximately 60 including 10 round edge ridge tiles, surplus to requirements, £30, buyer to collect - 01297 445108.

DENBY CHINA, ‘Cotswold’ collection, including 1 pint tea pot, 1½ pint coffee/water pot, ½ pint milk jug, sugar basin with lid, salt and pepper pots, all in excellent condition, £20 - 07828 172 375 (Ottery St Mary).

Please note, items for sale will move down the list each issue as we receive new listings, or will be removed earlier if we are contacted to confirm they have been sold.

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NOTICE IS GIVEN that due to the resignation of Cllr Jeff Scowen, a vacancy has arisen in the Office of Councillor for the Town Council.

If by 10 January 2020 (14 days* after the date of this notice) a request for an election to fill the vacancy is made in writing to: The Returning Officer, South Walks House, South Walks Road, Dorchester, Dorset DT1 1UZ

by TEN electors for the Town, an election will be held to fill the vacancy, otherwise the vacancy will be filled by co-option.

If an election is called, it will take place not later than 16 March 2020.

Dated 17 December 2019 Town Clerk, Lyme Regis Town Council * in computing any period of time for this purpose, a Saturday, Sunday, day of the Christmas break, of the Easter break or of a bank holiday or a day appointed for thanksgiving or mourning must be disregarded.

LYME REGIS TOWN COUNCIL

SEASONAL SEAFRONT AND BEACH CONCESSIONS 2020 or 2020-22 Lyme Regis Town Council invites tenders for concession sites for the following activities on the town’s seafront and beaches: Deckchair hire

Front Beach, Marine Parade, public gardens

Trampolines

Front Beach on the sand/shingle close to the jetty

Childrens’ games and activities

Front Beach, Marine Parade, public gardens

Arts and crafts

Front Beach, Marine Parade, public gardens

The council will consider offers for a one-year tender for 2020, or a three-year tender from 2020 to 2022, but offers should be made separately Tender forms and conditions of operation can be obtained from the council offices or downloaded from the website www.lymeregistowncouncil.gov.uk/seafront-concessions Tenders must be returned by 12 noon on Monday 13 January 2020 in a sealed envelope marked with the relevant concession, specifying the length of the tender The council reserves the right to accept or reject any tender Council Offices, Guildhall Cottage, Church Street, Lyme Regis, Dorset, DT7 3BS Tel: 01297 445175 Fax: 01297 443773 Email: admin@lymeregistowncouncil.gov.uk

Friday, December 20 2019 31

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LymeOnline Sport

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football - focussing on the Seasiders last three games

Seasiders still in the mix for Premier League honours

WITH the season a third completed, Lyme Regis 1sts are still well in the mix for Devon & Exeter Premier division honours after their 4-2 victory over fellow contenders Feniton.

Last season the Seasiders finished in a creditable fifth place in the highest standard they have played and whilst Okehampton are currently favourites for the title, with a four-point advantage at the top of the table, Lyme are still in second place.

The comprehensive victory over Feniton was one of Lyme’s best performance in recent weeks, despite going in 1-0 down at half-time. It could have been a far different story, however, had it not been for the heroics of the Feniton keeper who brought off four brilliant saves from Ben Vine, Cody Bowditch, Joe Bond and Fred Parsons.

Lyme manager Gerard Hitchcock considered the save from Vine’s goal bound top-corner shot was one of the

PHILIP EVANS

philip@lyme-online.co.hb best he had seen in local football.

It was a different matter in the second half with Lyme taking control and hitting three goals in a 15-minute blistering spell from Bowditch (60), Parsons (65) and Ben Vine (75). Brad Rowe added the fourth about five minutes from time with Feniton making it 4-2 in the dying minutes of the game.

Feniton are a useful outfit with a big attacker up front and some quick players operating off him, but the Lyme defence stood strong, especially Kingsley Wellman who was Hitchcock’s man-of-the-match. He was also impressed with Cam Fowler at left-back.

Squad: Brett Garner, Alex Rockett, Kingsley Wellman, Cam Fowler, Craig Every, Ben Turner, Rob Fellingham, Wes Holmes, Daley Holmes, Cody Bowditch, Ben Vine, Joe Bond, Brad Rowe.

There was a bizarre incident during the game when the Feniton bench asked the ref to stop the game, claiming Lyme’s Fred Parsons, who has played for the Seasiders for several seasons, was an unregistered player, saying they did not know who he was.

The official was having none of it and said he knew perfectly well who Parsons was.

Here’s how the top of the table looks before next Saturday’s games: Okehampton – played 10, 28 points Lyme Regis – played 11, 24 points Lapford – played 12 24 points Feniton – played 11, 21 points Beer - played 9, 19 points Bampton – played 7, 18 points Cronies – played 7, 18 points Beer, Bampton and Cronies are the obvious big threats to Lyme’s second place but as Hitchcock has pointed out, Cronies are not the side they once were and he would rather have points in the bag than games in hand.

Three crucial points for the Reserves LYME Reserves picked up three crucial points in their 2-0 win over Devon and Exeter League Division Three smugglers Pinhoe at the Davey Fort.

After a couple of indifferent performances and winning only seven points from their first eight games, the Seasiders’ second string looked like they were being sucked into an early relegation battle.

This victory, however, lifted them a couple of places up the table but they are not out of the woods yet with games in hand over the teams below them.

Manager Dominic Rowe had to abandon his three at the back formation for a more traditional back four which included the versatile Shane Featherstone who usually plays up front. But it paid dividends as Lyme’s

defence looked much more solid.

The reshuffle was caused when Lyme suffered an early blow when in-form keeper Rob Harp limped off the field early in the game with a hamstring strain. Defender Robbie Fowler donned the keeper’s gloves and gave his usual reliable service throughout.

After the early exchanges on a very slippery service, Lyme started to dominate and opened up the scoring in the 25th minute when Nicky Land fired home.

Goal number two came after the 37th minute when a Shane Featherstone’s far post header from a perfect Nathan Wormersley corner gave the visiting keeper no chance.

That’s how the score stayed until half-time. Scoring chances were few and far between in the second half

when Pinhoe, despite their lowly position at the foot of Division Three, matched Lyme well in all departments and never gave up.

The Exeter side hit the post late in the game and Steve Batey went close for Lyme with a looping header which bounced off the bar in the closing stages.

This was a much better performance by the Ressies but this Saturday, December 2 they face a tough afternoon at the Davey Fort when they entertain table toppers North Tawton.

Squad: Rob Harp, Ben Bowditch, Wallace Blackmore, Robbie Fowler, Nicky Land, Alex Rowe, Sam PollardJones, Mark Batey, Steve Batey, Shane Featherstone, Freddie Andrews, Dan Rendall, Tim Edwards.

Easy Dorset cup passage for Rovers LYME Rovers faced a potentially fiery local derby against Netherbury in the second round of the Dorset Junior Cup – following a first round bye – that eventually ended up as a fairly routine win.

Rovers generally dominated play and were good value for at least a three-goal win. The first 45 minutes was fairly one-way traffic, pinning Netherbury back for large spells, but lacking the quality in the final third.

Forward partnership Scott Meyers and Pete Peacock caused trouble for the visitors all afternoon, and it was Peacock who opened the scoring on 21 minutes, following a neatly lifted through ball from Fred Thomson. The second half began

golf

as expected, with Netherbury pushing forward quickly. Chris Higgs made an excellent momentum-shifting save from a free-kick ten minutes into the second half, and five minutes later, the Rovers doubled the lead.

Rhys Evans’ whipped corner was brilliantly met on the volley at the near post by the industrious Matt White, for his first goal of the season.

Peacock wrapped up the game with a second, again assisted by Thomson. Man-of-the-match goes to Pete Peacock for an outstanding work rate in attack and defence, with mentions too for Rhys Evans and Scott Meyers.

with Richard Jackman

Countback decides December medal MATT Brotherton secured victory in Division 1 of the December medal at Lyme Regis Golf Club on countback from Mark Scott, both with 71, while Peter Beviss finished third on 72.

Brotherton finished off his round with nett birdies on two of the last three holes, while Scott was regretting the agonising double bogey on the last hole.

Division 2 saw the best score of the day and a runaway win for Shaun Meyers with a nett 63, a result he has been threatening for some time. A brilliant round with no double bogeys secured victory and a well-deserved handicap cut.

Christopher Service just fell away on the back nine but still took second with 69, while Lee Caddy also broke nett par to finish third on 70.

The seniors’ December stableford saw Stephen Pitt and Peter Wood fight it out for top spot in Division 1, both with 38 points, in very testing conditions. Both players had two blobs, but both fought back superbly with Pitt finishing the stronger and winning on countback. Geoff Filtness came good to hold his game together and finish third on 37.

Division 2 saw a wonderful start from Kim Jeffery as he amassed 24 points on the front nine and although falling away, he still finished top by two clear points from Alan Woodbridge, 36, with Mark Lambton taking 3rd spot with 34.

Cyndy Mudford got the better of the in-form Jean Jolley in Division 1 of the ladies’ stableford by winning on countback as both scored 30 points. Di Harris secured third, just a point behind on 29.

It was perhaps a measure of the tricky conditions that Val Waites’ belligerent 27 points won Division 2 from Carole Watson, 23, and Sue Crossley on 22. Mary Golding won the nine-hole competition with 13 points.

■ JEVAN Hampton-Rumbold played some steady, secure golf in the ninehole junior stableford at Lyme Regis Golf Club to earn top place with 18 points.

Freddie Pearce was more erratic in ‘blobbing’ three holes in second place with 17 points, while Joe Shrubb secured third with 15.

With internal competitions taking place and a drop of rain, there were no other competitions – so Christmas preparations were to the fore!

Family life is still important at Lyme Regis FC FROM PAGE 32 extra cost) and where all the food for luncheons and evening dinners can be prepared and cooked, is another huge upgrade.

But there are no wealthy Russian oligarchs or Middle East sheikhs pumping billions into this club. As ever, Lyme Regis FC relies heavily on the fundraising efforts of a small army of volunteers: Howard Larcombe, the current chairman, and president Pip Evans are omnipresent patriarchs but there are numerous unsung heroes and heroines working hard behind the scenes who also help make this humble, homely club tick, including Pip’s daughter Francesca, a chip off the old block if ever there was one.

There are significant improvements and investments wherever I look. Over on the far (sea) side of the ground is the covered 63-seater grandstand, which was installed this season at a cost of around £13,000. The presence today of only 20 die-hards is due to the fact that this isn't a first team fixture – it's Lyme Regis Reserves against Exeter-based Pinhoe Firsts.

Even so, despite the game's relatively low-key status, I'm staggered to be handed a complimentary match day 'Seasider' programme, a very professionally produced, glossy, 12-page, full colour effort that would put some Football League and many senior non-league clubs to shame.

Seated in his wheelchair at the front of the new stand is another friendly face I instantly recognise. It's fellow Hammer Martin Rowe, a former star playmaker for the club whose son Alex now captains the team managed by Martin’s nephew, Dom Rowe. Family life is still important in this neck of the woods.

No overpaid prima donnas here!

As a long-suffering lifelong supporter of West Ham United (we all have our crosses to bear) who has become cynical and embittered by Premier League excess, it made a very refreshing change to enjoy a game – deservedly won 2-0 by the hosts – that wasn't marred by diving, overreacting and other forms of cheating by overpaid prima donnas.

The players proud to wear Lyme's amber and black stripes and Pinhoe blue were simply out to give of their honest best, facilitated by a fair referee who tried to let the game flow and didn't want to be the star of the show or need the intervention of VAR. This was a throwback, old school football if you like, and there's an awful lot to be said for it.

It was a fine day all round for the club – founded in 1885 – who celebrated victory by all three of its men's teams. The Firsts and Rovers (third team) both won away but – and this is typical of the prevailing community spirit – most of their players drove their cars back to Davey Fort afterwards to join the Reserve team and the rest of us gathered at HQ. And why wouldn't they? For the Seasiders' hattrick of wins meant ever-busy barmaid Pat Neale had to serve customers drinks during what became 'happy hour' – the club's traditional reward for thirsty players and supporters whenever all three Lyme teams win on the same day (just a thought, but wouldn't it be nice if

West Ham introduced an 'unhappy hour' every time they lose, then we could all quickly drown our sorrows on cheaper booze instead of the exorbitant £6 per pint nonsense at London Stadium).

To cap a heart-warming day, the club held its annual Christmas auction, which attracted bids for items as bizarrely wide-ranging as chocolate cake and unplucked pheasants, to tickets for the renowned Hix restaurant and a Premier League game. Around £1,400 profit was raised for this very worthy cause.

My wife and I live in France these days but I shall always continue to look forward to return visits to Lyme Regis, the town and football club, with very keen anticipation.

As I remarked to Philip, my former boss and trusted friend from our sports publishing days together in 'The Smoke': "You and all the other folk in Lyme are very fortunate to live in a lovely town such as this."

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32 Friday, December 20 2019

December 20 2019

‘Homely, humble and the heart of the community’

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NOW IN THE DEVON & EXETER PREMIER LEAGUE

Saturday, December 21 Lyme Regis Reserves v Upottery Reserves (Kick-off 2.30pm)

cricket

New overseas player at Uplyme

By TONY McDONALD Former General Manager of Independent Sport, London

I

T is getting on for two decades since a large group of us from an east Londonbased youth football team, Redbridge, first descended upon Lyme Regis.

We were there at the invitation of Philip Evans, a well-known pillar of the Lyme community, recent MBE recipient and then chairman of his local non-league football club.

We raised a few eyebrows around town – not because of the quality of our play, I hasten to add, but more for our 'cosmopolitan' look. Our pacy forward Stefan Mackintosh was a black kid (or should we now refer to him as a 'person of colour'?) with eye-catching dreadlocks that glistened like silk in the unseasonal afternoon rain. That would have been in year 2000, when our boys were playing at under-11 level.

The following August, we had within our ranks another black lad, Daniel MacDonald, a product of one of the worst estates in inner-London, and Ian Virk, an Indian boy.

Multi-cultural Britain had come to this delightful corner of West Dorset, big-time! Our lot loved it: the beach, the sea and the promenade with its fish and chip and ice cream outlets.

And I must say, the welcome af-

ACTION from the Lyme Regis Reserves’ recent home game against Pinhoe, watched by sports journalist Tony McDonald forded us, from opponents, officials and everyone else we encountered, was never less than warm and friendly.

Our accommodation for two nights was the Lyme Regis FC clubhouse, or rather its floor. We visited for six consecutive summers – a squad of around 15 boys, half of them accompanied by their fathers – and after the last local punters had left the bar and gone home, we'd all be sprawled out, wall to wall, snuggled up in sleeping bags and covering every available inch of the carpet. But no-one minded at all. It was all part of the fun, like an indoor camp site.

The worst of the snorers, 'Big' Lee Templeton, was always banished to the away team dressing room, where he spent the night in solitary on one of the benches. The foundations of the wooden construction reverberated all night to the din

emitted from his large torso.

The point is, we all immediately fell in love with Lyme Regis and that passion has never faded. On the contrary. Many years after the boys' team was disbanded once they reached the age of 16 and discovered 'beer and birds', the Redbridge Dads maintained an annual pilgrimage to the town. One of our number, Sean, has even asked for his ashes to be scattered from the Cobb wall!

What was true then, and happily remains very much the case today, is how the football club is the social, vibrant hub of the town, at the heart of the community. Or as the FC Barcelona motto goes, 'Mes que un club' (more than a club).

I was reminded of this, and their impressive evolution, when I visited again last week. A pre-match pint in The Volunteer with Lyme's born and bred Pip Evans and Richard

Austin, the acclaimed photographer who serial abuse of match officials once infamously generated the local paper headline 'Lyme's Bad Boy Off Again!', set me up for a thoroughly pleasurable afternoon at the Davey Fort ground on the hill on the opposite side of town.

The clubhouse has been transformed, refurbished and extended to more than twice the size of the basic room we used to fill at bedtime. The small, old TV set that was for years perched in one corner has been replaced by two large screens showing live satellite sports coverage (the Manchester derby is today's golden offering). Dressing room facilities and toilets are also unrecognisable from that period.

The adjoining kitchen, where kindly ladies dispense half-time tea and coffee (Custard Creams at no Turn to page 31

Old foes do Seasiders a favour PHILIP EVANS

philip@lyme-online.co.uk ON a weekend that was virtually washed out again after a week of heavy rain, Lyme Regis 1st team were done a favour by two old foes.

All three Lyme games were cancelled last weekend with the 1st team scheduled to travel to Devon & Exeter League Premier division leaders Okehampton.

But along with dozens of others, the game was called off due to a waterlogged pitch.

Only two fixtures did go ahead in the Premier division – Seaton Town at home to Feniton and Beer Albion at home to Lapford, ending in 2-1 victories for both neighbouring teams.

With Feniton and Lapford chasing honours, the two defeats helped Lyme to maintain their second place behind Okehampton.

Lapford are now on equal points with the Seasiders, but have a played one more game, and Feniton are trailing in fourth

place, three points behind Lyme with the same number of games played.

Beer’s victory puts them very much in the Premier race, trailing Lyme by five points but with two games in hand. The Seaton victory sees them moving towards mid-table after a difficult start to the season.

Tomorrow (Saturday) Lyme 1sts travel to Upottery who have won just two of their nine games and are nestling towards the bottom of the table.

Lyme Regis Reserves, who have started to show some form of late, are at home to Devon & Exeter Division Three basement boys Upottery Reserves (kickoff 2.15pm), but high-flying Lyme Rovers do not have another game until Saturday, January 4 when they meet Portland United Youth Panthers in the quarter-final of the Dorset Junior Cup. None of the Lyme teams have a fixture on Saturday, December 28.

MEET Uplyme and Lyme Regis Cricket Club’s new overseas player for the 2020 season - Jacob Bevacqua.

The new club chairman, Steve Batey has confirmed that Jacob, a first X1 player for Deepdene Bears, Uplyme’s twin club in Melbourne, will be playing at the King George V playing field next season.

Steve says: “Jub is a top order batsman and off spinner and will be hugely welcome at the KGV as a few of our players have played alongside him in Australia.

“He arrives in early April in time for pre-season training and matches.”

A number of Uplyme players have spent time in Australia, playing for the Bears, including Steve, Harvey Brimicombe and Tyler Wellman.

Four Cidermen on England Lions’ tour FOUR Somerset players – Tom Abell, Lewis Gregory, Craig Overton and Dom Bess – have been named in the 23-man squad for the England Lions tour of Australia, which departs the UK on January 21.

The four Somerset players will be part of the squad of 16 players who will contest the five 50-over matches against Cricket Australia and New South Wales XIs. Lewis, Craig and Dom will also be a part of the red-ball leg of the tour.

LymeOnline is published by Lyme Regis Media Limited Unit 5, Uplyme Business Park, Lyme Regis, Dorset DT7 3LS Printed by Newsquest, Weymouth

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