LymeOnline Digital Edition - December 23 2022

ANOTHER hectic summer in which car parks were overflowing and beach amenities were in great demand, Lyme Regis Town Council expect to finish the current financial year with reserves of £1,552,584.

This represents an increase on the previous year of £226,015, which will enable the council to embark on an ambitious programme of improvements and new projects, some of which were suggested by residents in a public

consultation

At a recent meeting of the council’s Strategy and Finance Committee councillors decided to keep the precept (the town’s contribution from council tax) at £132,779 for the year 2023-24, or the equivalent of £64 41 a year for the average Band D property

Councillors approved up to £671,800 for projects in 2023-24 and earmarked £552,584

from forecast reserves towards the funding of

For 2023-24 members approved an income budget estimate of £1,893,658 and an expenditure budget estimate of £1,666,431, a surplus of £227,226 and allocated £119,216 from the surplus to the funding of projects

Officers have prepared a three priority list of projects for councillors to consider

He called for the council to sort it out , saying that he was sick to death of being stuck in the middle”

Lyme Regis Town Council has received public backlash and national press coverage after its Planning Committee recommended refusal of Mark Hix’s application to retain his decking, which he erected under relaxed licensing and planning rules during the coronavirus pandemic

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Newsprint is an environmentally sound, renewable resource which comes from managed softwood coniferous forests, mainly in North America and Europe For every tree cut down, two or three more are planted Between 2005 and 2015 European forests grew by 44,160 sqkm

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In 1991, the UK publishers set a target of achieving 40 per cent recycled content in newspapers by the year 2000 The industry met this target four years ahead of schedule

In 2018, the recycled paper content of UK newspapers was 69 2 per cent

Foodbank supports 108 children at Christmas

CHRISTMAS gift bags and festive hampers have been provided to 108 local children and their families by Lyme Forward, which runs Lyme Regis Foodbank

The Woodroffe, Mrs Ethelston's, St Michael’s and Charmouth primary schools identified young people who would benefit from a little extra support this Christmas

The gift bags contain age-appropriate items including a creative and learning toy while the hampers are packed with everything a family needs for Christmas Day

Sue Davies, chair of Lyme Forward, commented: “We were keen to support children and their families identified by local schools as being in need

“The demand for support was much higher than last year but thanks to a vital grant from Lyme Regis Regatta and Carnival Committee, Rotary Club of Lyme Regis, the generosity of local individuals, businesses and a fantastic team of volun-

teers, all the requests for support were matched “There are many families in our local community that struggle on a daily basis, and we hope the gift bags and festive hampers make an enormous difference during the Christmas period, helping alleviate the financial pressures and allowing people to celebrate the season rather than simply existing through it ”

In recent months the foodbank has experienced higher demand for services The rising cost of food and energy, low pay and delays in universal credit are the most common reasons people need emergency food support

Those wanting to support the foodbank can leave donations of food items at the Co-op in Lyme Regis, Uplyme Post Office and Stores and Morgan’s in Charmouth, as well as the local churches Weekly requests are detailed on the Lyme Regis Foodbank Facebook page Financial donations can be made online via the foodbank website lymeregisfoodbank co uk

DEATH NOTICE

Jacqueline (Jacky) Hedley-Tuffs

Jacky passed away peacefully at Dorset County Hospital on Friday, December 9 2022, aged 84

Born on the longest day in 1938, Jacky lived in many different places including London, Paignton, Bristol, Western-Super-Mare and Swanbourne before settling in Lyme Regis

Jacky has supported the Marine Theatre, the local council and a number of charities including the RNLI and local youth football

She will be greatly missed by her family and friends from across the country Jacky’s funeral service will be held at East Devon Crematorium on Monday, January 16 2023 at 11 30am

Family flowers only please Donations in Jacky s memory to the RNLI c/o AJ Wakely & Sons, Lyme Regis, telephone: 01297 443835

Former Lyme man’s 100th birthday

By PHILIP EVANS

A FORMER Lyme Regis man, born and bred in the town, has celebrated his 100th birthday.

Mr Harold Larcombe is the uncle of former mayor Brian Larcombe MBE and his brother Howard, a former chairman of Lyme Regis Football Club.

Mr Larcombe senior moved his family from Lyme to Bournemouth in the late 1950s to work for Vickers Armstrong but always kept a keen interest in the affairs of his home town

His 100th birthday was celebrated with a family party at Cobham Sports Club, Wimborne, last Saturday

Mr Larcombe was delighted to receive a card congratulating him on his 100th birthday from King Charles and the Queen Consort Camilla

Mr Larcombe was one of three sons of Mr and Mrs Herbie Larcombe, who lived in Corporation Terrace (now Lym Close) His two brothers, Alan and Colin, are both dead.

Mr Larcombe worked at Cloverdale Garage as a mechanic before moving to Vickers Armstrong and then to Flight Refuelling where he was a design draughtsman.

He met his late wife Audrey on Birmingham Station during World War Two She thought he looked lost and asked

lands to court his future wife The couple lived in Anning Road and had two sons, Rick and Alan

Mr Larcombe was a retained fireman at the Lyme Regis fire station where he used to service the appliances

His brother Alan was also a fireman and two of his three sons, Andrew and Peter, have followed in his footsteps and are full-time firemen

Foodbank volunteer Jenny Short alongside Sue Davies, chair of Lyme Forward, Cllr Michaela Ellis, Mayor of Lyme Regis, and Martin Davies as they prepare Christmas gift bags

Harold Larcombe pictured on his 100th birthday with a book about his beloved Lyme on his lap whether she could help him They exchanged details at the railway stationa real ‘Brief Encounter’ moment - as Mr Larcombe then visited her by riding his motorbike from Dorset to the Mid-

Mr Larcombe (third from the left) pictured with his wife Audrey and two brothers, Alan and Colin, and their wives at a family wedding

From play areas to the corona tion – council sets out projects for next year

CONTINUED FROM FRONT PAGE

Priority one totals £414,000 and includes £100,00 for the harbourmaster’s store and lodge and £100,000 for footpath repairs in the public gardens It also includes £25,000 for climate plan initiatives, part of a dedicated £75,000 budget which runs over three years

Priority two projects total £407,800 These include a sum of £150,00 for a multi-use games areas in Lister Gardens and a similar sum for a children’s play area in Lister Gardens, as well as £25,000 for outdoor gym equipment

A sum of £30,000 has been earmarked for bursaries help start-up businesses and give young people access to facilities that their families cannot afford, such as joining sports clubs

Former mayor Cllr Brian Larcombe MBE, commenting on the bursaries, said: “We should not sign up to that without a proper debate because this is delving into commercial support of a sort this council has not previous remit for ”

He suggested it would be more appropriate scheme for Dorset Council than the town council

Cllr Larcombe also criticised the “huge” amounts they had put aside for the play areas, commenting: “That must be just finger in the air in terms of price, because a third of a million, when you consider all the facilities we ’ ve already got, is pretty huge cost ”

A sum of £20,000 has also been allocated to celebrate the King’s coronation weekend in May

Priority three projects are costed out at £80,000 and include a sum of £30,000 for a memorial to Queen Elizabeth II and £10,000 for council employee benefits, such as an employee assistance programme or wellbeing benefits such as gym membership and childcare vouchers

Staffing expenditure for 2023-24 is estimated at £877,269, an increase of £95,371, which includes a national pay award resulting from South West Council’s pay review and a national pay award assumption of six per cent

Dorset receives £4.5m ‘levelling up’ funding

CENTRAL government has confirmed that Dorset Council is to receive around £4 5million over the next two years to continue several key programmes, as well as launch some new initiatives

The UK Government has approved local spending plans for the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), which matches and succeeds EU funding, while giving local leaders greater say in how the money is spent

The government states that people across the country will benefit from £2 6 billion of investment that will “turbo-charge” levelling up – supporting local businesses, boosting skills, reviving high streets, and improving local pride

A new Investment Plan for Dorset, led by Dorset Council with input from a wide range of contributors, has been approved by the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities, and will see the county benefit from £4 5m of UKSPF money

Dorset’s Investment Plan includes funding for:

Provision of energy efficiency advice through Low Carbon Dorset

The expansion of Healthy Homes Dorset energy efficiency scheme

Development of affordable sustainable transport, especially for younger people

A new business support programme to support business growth and deliver business advice

Basic and more advanced skills courses to help people enter the jobs market and secure better paid employment

The flexible approach to the Investment Plan also means Dorset Council will have the opportunity to adapt its plan to reflect new economic priorities over the period to 2025 Councillor Tony Ferrari, Dorset Council's portfolio holder for Economic Growth, Assets and Property, said: “This is great news for Dorset We had concerns about the future funding of well-used and appreciated services such as Low Carbon Dorset and Healthy Homes Dorset without EU money, but the UKSPF will ensure we can continue to deliver these and much more in the future

“The £4 5m will be focused on building pride in place, supporting high quality skills training, supporting pay, employment and productivity growth, and increasing life chances across the county

“All of these are key objectives for

Dorset Council over the coming years, especially as we tackle postpandemic financial challenges and offer help to our residents ” West Dorset MP Chris Loder has also welcomed the announcement, and that of a further £1 5million to be spent on the adult numeracy programme Multiply in Dorset

He said: “Having met the Prime Minister two weeks ago, I made clear that we need to see innovation and investment in Rural Dorset just as much priority as Bournemouth and Poole

“Under the Dorset LEP (Local Enterprise Partnership), I felt rural West Dorset was not properly looked after I’m pleased the new funding, allocated to elected local authorities rather than an appointed board, will be more accessible, and fairer to West Dorset

“This funding is unique to rural Dorset, meaning the Dorset Council area will have more autonomy to prioritise investment in our own area, and better reflect the needs and ambitions of our communities ”

The council aims to launch the first elements of the Investment Plan in the New Year and will be providing more details on how businesses and individuals can access this support

Merr y Christmas and a Happy New Year to all our readers, advertisers and supporters

SUNRISE FROM SUNSET TO

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Town clerk tells divided council: ‘I’m sick to death of being stuck in the middle’ ARGUMENT

OVER MARK HIX DECKING CONTINUES WITH COUNCIL TO REVIEW POSITION IN NEW YEAR

LYME Regis Town Council is to review its position on chef and restaurateur Mark Hix’s application to retain decking outside The Oyster & Fish House, after strong words from the town clerk who told councillors they needed to “sort out” their differing

opinions

Mr Hix was granted permission to extend the outdoor eating area at his restaurant during the coronavirus pandemic and created a three-level deck on unused space in Lister Gardens

This permission was granted without formal plans being presented, when the government relaxed regulations on al fresco licenses to help businesses during the pandemic, although some councillors have since expressed concerns that a “permanent structure” was constructed, rather than tables and chairs which could be easily removed

The permission has since expired and the restaurant had to submit a formal planning application to Dorset Council to retain its decked area

As landowners of Lister Gardens, Lyme Regis Town Council asked for valuation of the land to be carried out, with town clerk John Wright writing to Mr Hix saying the committee was “amenable” to his request, provided a suitable price could be agreed

But the council’s Planning Committee then recommended refusal of the plans, on the grounds of ingress into a public amenity and the detrimental effect on the gardens

Concerns were also raised by the Lyme Regis Society and a conservation officer, and Mr Hix was later advised that his application was set to be refused by Dorset Council

He then withdrew the application – also threatening to withdraw support for all town council and tourism related events – with plans to submit a new application in the New Year The town council was told that discussions would be held with Mr Hix with regards to the removal of the decking, as it did not have consent

Following backlash from the public, national press interest and radio interviews on the subject, the issue was raised again at last week’s town council meeting Cllr Caroline Aldridge – one of three town councillors who recommended refusal of the application at the Planning Committee – said: “On this agenda, it says officers would need to have discussions about the removal of the structure because their was no consent for it Listening to all these radio broadcasts I understand there have been some developments which we haven’t been told about and I think we should know ” Town clerk John Wright said: “There isn’t entire clarity on what the respective positions are I think we need to have a discussion because this council is divided in terms of how we take this forward “I have been getting loads of emails from various members who have various positions, telling me things I’ve got to say, which is not right – expecting me, as an officer, to put forward a position that I know is their view and not necessarily the view of the whole council

“We are beginning to tie ourselves in knots on this one and we need to get out of that wrangle I want a clear position from this council in terms of what it expects us to do and I think that’s really important for all our sanity ”

Mr Wright suggested an extraordinary meeting of full council be held early in the New Year to review the council’s position on the matter Cllr Graham Turner, chair of Planning Committee who also agreed to recommend refusal of the plans, asked: “We at the Planning Committee turned it down and that decision was passed at full council by a majority decision, so why are we going backwards on it?”

The town clerk explained: “To be absolutely clear –and there seems to be some misunderstanding because people either just don’t understand or don’t want to understand – the Planning Committee makes recommendations directly to Dorset Council All other committees make recommendations to full council who then adopt them by resolution So the Planning Committee’s decisions are not necessarily endorsed by full council ”

Cllr Belinda Bawden, the third member to recommend refusal of retaining the decking, said: “That was the clear decision of the council, and people briefing against that decision is something that we ’ ve been told

FRANCESCA EVANS francesca@lyme-online

since we were elected shouldn’t be happening ” Mr Wright came back with a strong-worded response in which he called out Cllr Bawden personally and told he members to “sort it out” as he was “sick to death of being stuck in the middle”

“Some members are concerned about the decision of the Planning Committee, thinking what it’s done is what you, Cllr Bawden, accuse other committees and other councils of doing – actually ignoring a previous view that was expressed by the council, which was to go and do some valuation work,” he said

“You’re shaking your head but you ’ re wrong, you ’ re absolutely wrong, you need to read those minutes in terms of what the direction of that meeting was The council needs to come back and debate this whole issue

“It’s got to get sorted and it’s you guys that need to sort it out You’ve got to come to a clear view and, frankly, I’m sick to death of being stuck in the middle, some members targeting me specifically in terms of not following council instructions, and it’s entirely wrong

“You, Belinda, have said before that you ’ re upset because Cllr Cheryl Reynolds said the council was divided; this council is absolutely divided on this issue

“When we talk to the press and media, we have to be honest and truthful, it’s our own credibility and reputation at stake ”

Cllr Bawden replied: “I have read the minutes and listened to the recording of the meetings where I wasn’t present and don’t agree that other committees have disagreed with the decision There were not differing opinions to councillors not being happy about that structure being permanent ”

The Mayor of Lyme Regis, Cllr Michaela Ellis, said: The structure is non-permanent; that s what was requested when Mr Hix first came to council with a paper and we accepted it and he knew at the time it was a non-permanent structure

Cllr Bawden argued: “We didn’t see anything, that’s the whole point of this, the councillors did not see any plans We thought it was temporary chairs and tables that would be put away every night Councillors did not see any plans ”

The town clerk replied: “There was a sketch to be clear and Mark Hix attended the meeting and talked through what he wanted to do

“That’s not the issue for discussion; the issue is, a direction was given by the council and then a decision that was not consistent with that direction came from the Planning Committee and we absolutely need to sort it out Whichever way it goes, some people won’t like it, but we ’ ve got to sort it out ”

Cllr Aldridge then accused Mr Hix of running a bullying campaign against the council and complained that she had been “named and shamed” in the press because of the decision to recommend refusal of the plans

She said: “What is concerning me is that Mark Hix has used opportunities to go to the press and, frankly, conduct a bullying campaign against the council because he thinks he’s not going to get what he wants, and three of us on the Planning Committee have effectively been named and shamed for doing what we thought was the right thing for the town, and I think the council and its officers should support us in that “What’s really concerning me is if, as it said on the radio this morning, there’s going to be a meeting between the mayor, town clerk and Mark Hix next week, how is he going to use that meeting to again say, ‘well I’ve had discussions and I’ve now got an agreement’?”

Cllr Ellis assured that no decisions would be made without going to full council first

She added: “To you saying that three people made that decision and we ’ re not supporting you, we have not had a chance to discuss this because, personally, what I’ve seen happen is Strategy & Finance made a decision to go out and get some pricing for that land Until that pricing comes back I, as a councillor, cannot make a decision as to whether I want that land to be leased out

“No decision should have been made at planning As a landowner and because of the process we were going through, you could have made no comment ”

LYME Regis Welcome Club enjoyed some festive celebrations on Wednesday Managed by Lyme Regis Development Trust, the Welcome Club is held monhtly at Lyme Regis Football Club to tackle loneliness and social isolation This week, those attending enjoyed a festive afternoon tea, Christmas songs and a visit from Santa Claus The Welcome Club is held on the third Thursday of the month with the first session of 2023 to be held on Wednesday, January 18 from 12noon to 3.30pm. Entry is free and all are welcome, with parking and disabled access available

ALL OVER THE TOWN

The final countdown

WE have finally made it to Christmas weekend and I imagine many of you will be picking up this edition as you whiz around the town, looking for that last-minute gift, or while on yet another visit to the supermarket, because that tin of Quality Streets didn’t quite last until the big day

I write this just a couple of hours before sending our last newspaper of the year to print and 24 hours until I’m officially on Christmas holiday (that excludes major breaking news, so try and keep it quiet please!)

This year we will be having a slightly extended break after Christmas and taking some time to plan for the year ahead, so our next printed issue will not be out until January 20 2023, but in the meantime you can visit our website to stay up to date with all the latest local news

After an exceptionally busy month, I’m looking forward to getting my own celebrations underway at the annual Carols Round The Tree service in Broad Street on Friday evening, followed by dinner and drinks with my friends and

then a quiet family Christmas

Last week, amid the final hurrah of the festive build-up, I was invited to join Lyme Regis Golf Club's ladies section for their Christmas lunch, where I was guest speaker, telling members about my career in local journalism and work for both LymeOnline and Nub News

I have to thank the club for a delicious turkey dinner, and to the ladies for making me so welcome – despite my total lack of knowledge on golf!

It was a particularly chilly start on Wednesday, as I headed down to Lyme Regis harbour for the Boat Building Academy's latest boat launch The graduates didn't seem to mind the weather too much, as they excitedly launched their handcrafted vessels into the water for the first time (see below)

In the afternoon I covered the Jurassic Business Awards at Lyme Regis Football Club and it was great to celebrate the successes of local businesses, which have been faced with such challenges in recent years (see page 12)

And the day was finished off supporting another local business, as the Alexandra Hotel in Lyme Regis hosted its annual Christmas drinks

One of the highlights of another busy

week came last Friday evening, when I was invited to The Club House in West Bexington for their annual murder mystery night I can't say that my friends and I managed to solve the mystery, but we had great fun in giving it a go and enjoyed a delicious dinner at the seafront restaurant on Chesil Beach

And I finished the week dancing the night away at a Great Gatsby theme Christmas ball in aid of Cancer Research UK (see page 10) My family leads the Lyme Regis branch of Cancer Research and we always have great fun hosting fundraising events together This was no exception – the costumes were fantastic, the dance floor packed all night and so many have been in touch to say how much they enjoyed the evening

This year has been extra special for us as we surpassed a total of £200,000 raised for Cancer Research since forming in 2008 A further £7,000 was donated at the ball, from the now closed Lyme Regis Musical Theatre and the Chardstock Vintage Tractor & Machinery Club Thanks to all who have supported us in 2022

Amid all the fun and frivolity of the Christmas build-up, the cogs that keep the town ticking behind the scenes con-

with LymeOnline

editor Francesca Evans

tinue to turn, and Lyme Regis Town Council has once again been making headlines over its controversial decision to recommend refusal of celebrity chef Mark Hix’s decking area becoming a permanent feature of the seafront gardens The story attracted national press attention and Cllr Cheryl Reynolds gave an interview on regional radio I imagine someone else who is looking forward to their Christmas

break is town clerk John Wright, who seemed to reach the end of his tether at last week’s meeting, saying he was “sick to death of being stuck in the middle” of divided councillors (see page 4)

Don’t blame you, John, I’m rather sick of it all myself and I imagine the rest of the town is too Hopefully they take the clerk’s advice as their New Year’s resolution and “sort it out”!

Watch Francesca’s weekly video news bulletins, every Friday morning on the LymeOnline website

Boa t builders host launch in freezing tempera tures

THE renowned Boat Building Academy in Lyme Regis celebrated the end of its latest 40-week course at a launch day last Wednesday, held in freezing temperatures

But the icy conditions didn’t put off graduates, who excitedly launched three hand-crafted vessels into the harbour, after a procession from the Boat Building Academy on Monmouth Beach led by a bagpipe player

They were cheered on by a large crowd of family, friends and supporters, including the Mayor of Lye Regis, Cllr Michaela Ellis, who congratulated all those completing the course

The Boat Building Academy’s flagship 40-week course teaches men and women from all backgrounds how to build boats to industry standards For more details visit the website www boatbuildingacademy com

Graduates and supporters make their way to the slipway, led by a bagpiper

One of the boats is launched into the harbour and, below, Boat Building Academy director Will Reed welcomes the crowd, alongside the Mayor of Lyme Regis, Cllr Michaela Ellis, and her consort Alan Ellis

A highlight of the week – the murder myster y night at The Club House in West Bexington (photo courtesy of The Club House)

Senior citizens tuck into Christmas dinner

SENIOR citizens from Lyme Regis recently tucked into a traditional Christmas dinner together

About 70 residents attended the annual Over 70s Christmas Dinner at Woodmead Halls, with a three-course dinner including roast turkey and all the trimming served by

local caterer Emma Blackmore and volunteers

Entertainment was provided by Lyme Regis singer Roy Wootton and all those attending were entered into a free raffle for some Christmas treats, and took home a gift from Father Christmas

Santa boosts funds for Seaside Store

FATHER Christmas has helped to raise £1,390 for the Seaside Store in Lyme Regis, which provides affordable acess to fresh and nutritious food for all

Organised by Neville and Sarah Causley and their family for the 21st year, the charity Santa sleigh recently made its way around Lyme Regis, Uplyme and Charmouth, spreading cheer and collecting donations from residents

Neville and Sarah said: “This is the 21st year we have take to the streets with Santa and it s honestly something we really look forward to every year

We could, however, not do this without the generosity and help of a number of peopleDaniel Edwards, John Rickard, Ken Lavery, Tim Mayers (Sparkbrights) Martin Fowler, (Fowlers Plant Hire) and Lyme Regis Regatta & Carnival Committee

“We have, historically, fundraised for youth organisations and charities, however, this year we are conscious of the current cost of living crisis affecting so many in our community and wanted to donate to something that everyone

could benefit from if they chose to do so

“This is why all monies raised will be donated directly to the Seaside Store For those of you unaware, this is a service that is fully inclusive and can be used by anyone in our community - regardless of circumstance

“Members pay a minimal fee of £3 50 and can choose up to 10 items a week - with bread, eggs, fruit and veg being completely free

“The guys that run this, source food through Fareshare which takes good quality surplus produce from supermarkets that would otherwise be wasted - so massive environmental benefits as well

“The store is entirely not-for-profit and run by volunteers, any funds are used to keep the cupboards, fridges and freezers full

“The store is open every Tuesday morning at The Hub Please do pop along and take a look - it’s a super service for our community!

“On behalf of Santa, and all of the Causley family, we would like to wish you all a very merry Christmas and a peaceful New Year See you in December 2023 ”

Dedicated Lyme Regis Rotarian receives Paul Harris Fellowship

THE

Lyme Regis Rotarian Richard Cridge was presented with this special award at the club’s recent Christmas gathering

Paul Harris was the founder of Rotary International, which was established in Chicago in 1905

The Paul Harris Award was created in 1957 in recognition for an individuals outstanding contribution to Rotary and its aims

It has now become one the largest service organisations in the world with more than 1 4 million members, with 15,000 clubs in more than 145 countries In the UK alone, there are more than 40,000 members in more than 1,700 clubs

The presentation to Mr Cridge was made by past president John McCullum, who said: “There are some members of our club who can always be relied upon to deliver in the continued service to club and community

“They work tirelessly and without fuss to help drive the club, to raise the profile of Rotary in the community and to raise much needed funds for a host of good causes

“One member, in particular, deserves special mention – Richard Cridge Whether it be Carols Around the Tree, the Christmas collection or any other street collection, Anning Road fete, soup and ploughman’s lunch, book sales, Candles On The Cobb, golf day, Stroke Awareness Day, the Lyme Lunge; whether it be sunny or freezing, windy or raining, he is usually there and often at the forefront, organising our merry bunch into action and tidying up after us, always chatting away and keeping us amused with his little stories, or just plain helping out

“He will unfailingly step up to the plate when asked to do so in any project, no matter what committee is organising it, to run an event or just help

out No fuss, no histrionics, he just gets on with it and delivers

Mr Cridge joined Rotary in 1991 and served as president of the Rotary Club of Lyme Regis in 1997/98 and 2008/9 He has also served as community/vocational chair more often than I can remember and led the club’s skittles team to promotion to Division 1 of the local skittles league, as well as winning the District Challenge Trophy on a number of occasions

More recently, he was asked to head the team organising Candles on the Cobb 2022 and was said to do so with calm assurance and diplomacy, resulting in the largest sum raised by any organisation in a single day in Lyme Regis”

Mr Cridge was also praised for raising the profile of Rotary in Lyme Regis in recruiting so many volunteers for the event

Why not join the Rotary family and help your local community? Contact secretary John Berry by emailing secretary@lymeregisrotary org for more information or visit www lymeregisrotary org

healthcarenews

Lack of social care support at home and in residential or nursing homes, causes serious harm and distress; it’s also the main reason for ambulance queues outside A&E units

Primary care, Dr Watson showed, is relatively neglected in funding, staffing and importance That’s clear in a recent book, ‘Side Effects: How Our Healthcare Lost its Way’, by David Haslam A long-serving GP, one-time head of the Royal College of GPs, the British Medical Association, and the National Institute for Clinical Excellence, he knows a thing or two National health and care policy is unbalanced Haslam says It favours acute hospitals, expensive medications, treatments whose effectiveness is sometimes doubtful “very expensive therapies for small numbers of patients prioritised over comfort and care for much larger numbers of patients” and training specialist rather than general practitioners Hospitals have their rightful place But too many people need admitting, while too many ready to leave can’t be discharged promptly That’s not news to anyone His point is that solutions are known Government could choose them, but doesn’t Here’s his advice What’s a good health service?

Keeping healthy if we can reduces need for illhealth treatment So invest more in primary care mental health, child health, and in public health: prevention measures, health-promotion, and self-care

There’s good evidence that ‘continuity of care’ lowers hospital admissions and improves outcomes; it’s particularly important when over half UK patients have two or more long-term conditions, and when remote consultations are on the rise “If a drug this effective, and with so many benefits, was denied to the public, there would be an outcry,” he writes

Invest in social care and community support

Nearby in Frome a local focus on coordinated community care, led from the GP Practice, cut unplanned hospital admissions by 17 per cent (against a rise of 29 per cent in the rest of Somerset) with over 20 per cent saving in costs

All such non-hospital services, Haslam notes, have been first on the list for funding cuts Money is crucial, but ‘investment’ is also about training and organisation public and political recognition and emotional reward for staff Why the imbalance?

Funds are always limited: choices must be made So why, Haslam asks, prioritise ‘secondary’ treatment while running down primary services, a costly policy that’s not helpful to the best health of the greatest number of people? Is it deliberate choice or accident?

He suggests that it’s unconscious, with politicians and the media influenced by glamour and headlines It’s the shiny new hospital that excites, not the loss of district nurses Not being ill isn t a story ”

He doesn’t let us off the hook either Politicians answer to electorates, media to readers If they think we want the present system, or will applaud them for sustaining it, things won’t change How can we look after our own health service?

Those who may share David Haslam’s call for greater focus on coordinated primary and community care have a voice Recently health and care in Dorset have come under one ‘Integrated Care Board’, designed to link services: primary care, hospitals, Dorset HealthCare, Ambulance Service, County Social Services and Public Health, the voluntary and community sectors It could influence national policy and redesign local priorities We’ll know that care is truly integrated when personal experiences show that it is

The board’s chair says that it “will listen to people and communities see things from their perspective, and co-design the services that people really need so that we can support people to live healthy and happy lives ”

It can listen only if people speak So why not check out www nhsdorset nhs uk or email customer careteam@nhsdorset nhs uk?

OUR recent public meeting heard Dr Forbes Watson discuss ‘The Future of GP services’ –well summarised in LymeOnline s headline: Future of healthcare uncertain’ Are NHS priorities in balance?

From Lyme Bay Medical Practice Patient Participation Group

Paul Harris Fellowship Award is given by Rotary to an individual in recognition of their outstanding service to Rotary, their club and the local community

Richard Cridge (right) receives the Paul Harris Fellowship Award from John McCullum

villagenews

Charmouth celebrates at annual Christmas Fayre

■ CHARMOUTH celebrated the festive season with its annual Christmas Fayre last week

The event saw local shops, pubs and other businesses get into the festive spirit, with staff dressing in costume and offering customers mulled wine, mince pies and other Christmas treats A grand raffle was hosted by estate agents Fortnam, Smith & Banwell and local organisations set up stalls to raise funds, including the 1st Charmouth Scout Group Children’s craft activities and stalls were set up in St Andrew’s Church, where Father Christmas also met youngsters in his grotto

Uplyme considers launching its own discount card for residents

UPLYME Parish Council is considering launching its own discount card in response to Lyme Regis Town Council’s Gateway Card, which residents from the neighbouring village have been told they are not eligible to use

The recently relaunched Gateway Card is available for Lyme Regis residents only, with participating business and the town council itself offering discounts on specific products or services

Many Uplyme residents have expressed disappointment that they are not eligible to have a Gateway Card, despite also having DT7 postcodes, and said this is unfair as they often look to Lyme Regis businesses for day-to-day shopping and activities

Uplyme Parish Council chairman, Cllr Chris James, said: “Uplyme Parish Council fully understands the issue relating to parking permits, because Lyme Regis Town Council loses income due to that part of the scheme, and Uplyme residents pay no precept to Lyme Regis Town Council

“But we fail to understand why our residents do not qualify for the same discount that applies to Lyme Regis residents when supporting businesses in Lyme

“I am informed on very good authority that, when this was discussed by the now defunct Lyme Regis traders group, that all members were in favour of offering the same discount to Uplyme residents but that Lyme Regis Town Council refused to include them

On behalf of Uplyme residents, I am therefore taking this opportunity to ask all Lyme Regis

traders who would be willing to offer a discount to Uplyme residents to contact the Uplyme parish clerk by emailing clerk@uplymeparishcouncil org

“If a sufficient number of businesses show an interest, the parish council, after consultation with the traders, will produce a discount card, available to Uplyme residents at no cost to them

“Finally, I would wish to make it clear that Uplyme Parish Council would like to have a much better relationship with Lyme Regis Town Council than there is at present because there are issues of joint concern

“The county boundary can be irrelevant as was shown by the cooperative working whilst the River Lim path was being improved ”

Explaining the town council’s reasoning on the Gateway Card, Cllr Cheryl Reynolds, chairman of the Tourism, Community and Publicity Committee, said: “The Gateway Card is available only to Lyme Regis residents as their council tax supports the town and the council feels they should have some payback for this The scheme is a way of us as the local council saying thank you to our local ratepayers

“As Uplyme residents pay their council tax to support services in their own village, and not Lyme Regis, it seems unfair they should benefit from Lyme Regis Town Council’s subsidy

“We welcome ways to work more closely with Uplyme Parish Council in general to share issues of joint concern and would be happy to attend any meetings ”

Charmouth Heritage Coast Centre hosts visit for visually impaired adults

CHARMOUTH Heritage Coast Centre arranged a visit for visually impaired adults in November This visit was the finale of a project called ‘Sensing the Past’ and run in collaboration with Dorset Museum and Dorset Blind Association, funded by Arts Council England Eight visually impaired adults and their guides took part in fossil hunting and identification followed by a behind the scenes handling session with a variety of Jurassic Coast fossils, including the Charmouth Dinosaur, Scelidosaur Participants commented that it “was an interesting and rewarding day”, that “it was client led as we all have different needs” and was “was

well balanced, well planned and nicely paced

Prior to this visit, Charmouth Heritage Coast Centre’s education manager Anna gave a talk via Zoom on the importance of the Jurassic Coast, which was followed by a visit to Dorset Museum which included a tour and a fossil formation activity

The final part of the project was the visit to Charmouth Heritage Coast Centre

Staff from Charmouth Heritage Coast Centre said: “We plan to build on the invaluable experience gained from this visit and welcome interest from other under-served communities too ”

Glittering ball rounds off successful fundraising year

THE Lyme Regis branch of Cancer Research UK rounded off a hugely successful year with a Great Gatsby themed Christmas ball.

The event – initially planned for last Christmas when it was called off at the last minute due to a resurgence in COVID-19 cases – was held at the Woodmead Halls on Saturday and saw about 80 guests dress in their finest flapper dresses, bow ties and flat caps dance the night away to live 1920s jazz played by the Gershwin Gang Band.

Supporters also enjoyed a three-course buffet supper, disco and a tombola with prizes including luxury hampers, vouchers for local restaurants, bottles and lots more.

A prize for the best costume was presented to Hayley Michael, who definitely had the look and the moves, having recently played a flapper girl in the Marine Players’ production of ‘There Goes The Bride’.

The event rounded off a year in which the small committee, formed in 2008, surpassed the

total of £200,000 raised for Cancer Research UK.

Additional donations of some £9,000 were made on the night, with cheques presented to branch chairman Philip Evans MBE by the now-defunct Lyme Regis Musical Theatre, and the Chardstock Vintage Tractor & Machinery Club following a recent tractor run.

Mr Evans commented: “After the disappointment of having to cancel the ball last year we felt duty-bound to stage it this year after people had gone to a lot of trouble in sourcing costumes to support us. It has turned out to be a fantastic evening and one of the most enjoyable events we have organised. I’d like to pay tribute to everyone who helped to lay on such a wonderful evening, to those who attended and others who kindly donated prizes.

“We have had one of our most successful fundraising years and we are enormously grateful for the amount of community support that our small committee receives.”

Cliff and Caroline Powley, above, and Lynnette Ravenscroft and Lee Caddy, far right, were among the guests who took on the spirit of the 1920s to enjoy the Great Gatsby Ball on Saturday evening

Hayley Michael receives a bottle of prosecco for best costume of the evening, presented by the Gershwin Gang band leader

Jo Hopkins (right), chairman of Lyme Regis Musical Theatre Society and vice chairman Jane Broom presented a cheque to Lyme Regis Cancer Research UK branch chairman Philip Evans. The money was donated from remaining funds of the society which has now disbanded

Teresa and Martin Fowler made a real costume effort for the evening Guests enjoy dancing to the sounds of the Gershwin Gang Band

Will harbour dredging clash with Easter holiday again?

■ AN open letter to Dorset councillor Ray Bryan: I was dismayed to read on the LymeOnline website that dredging work at Lyme Regis “is expected to start at the end of March, or early April 2023 with the hopes it will not interfere with the tourist season ”

I would like to draw your attention to www dorsetcouncil gov uk school term and holiday dates in Dorset, which clearly states that spring term ends Friday, March 41 2023 for the two week Easter holiday

I sincerely hope that the dredging works date will be reviewed to avoid the school Easter holidays, a time when those who appreciate the charms of Lyme Regis will be hoping to return I would have thought you would want to encour-

age visitors to bolster the economy of Lyme Regis and for them not to be deterred from appreciating the bay and visiting the restaurants and cafés Surely the end of March and early April is exactly the time when you would not want to schedule the harbour dredging and instead choose a time after this Easter tourist period

I hope that we will soon hear that these crucial school holiday weeks will be avoided for the dredging works

Gillian Roberts

(by email)

Editor’s note: See page 3 for full coverage of this issue, including comment from Cllr Ray Bryan

Council support could ensure business sur vival

■ AN open letter to Lyme Regis Town Council:

We would, as residents, business owners and employers in the town request that the council review Mark Hix’s application to retain his decking area favourably

We understand there is some controversy over the application, given that it was limited to support the Covid support packages and time-bound by that, but we would urge a positive outcome for the following reasons:

1) We assume Mr Hix will be paying ground rent and thus will bring in money to the council

2) The area in question has been very tastefully created to make it look like a natural extension of the restaurant and in keeping with the seaside theme of the town I think any visitor would assume that they are one and the same and very nicely designed

3) The use of public space for a private enter-

prise has already been compromised with the offer of renting out the Lister Room to a food establishment

4) Business is incredibly hard right now and the council's support could ensure survival or failure of an iconic establishment

We ourselves have had to close East Kitchen on Coombe Street despite it appearing to be a very popular and successful restaurant This has resulted in the loss of four full-time and several parttime jobs

We go into business knowing the risks but if help can be extended in hard times, then in good times we all pitch in to get behind the town's initiatives and activities to make this such a success story of a town

A more generous person would be hard to find

■ I FIRST met Jacky Hedley-Tuffs in 2015 I had responded to a cry for help to walk her two dogs Lizzie and Cassie as she had injured her leg and couldn’t walk them herself

Jacky struggled asking for help; something I learnt about her over time She was definitely much happier being the one ‘called to assist’ A more generous and giving person would be hard to find Sadly this attribute could sometimes be exploited!

However, once Jacky had given in and trusted me to walk her dogs, it was the beginning of a beautiful friendship!

Jacky never replaced her beloved dogs when they died but I continued to pop in and see her whenever I was passing I enjoyed sitting in her front room listening to

her animated stories of her past life as a housemother in a boys school, teaching in a challenging school in Bristol, her various escapades working with animals or humorous adventures when working backstage at various theatres; bumping into celebs and sometimes royals along the way

I must confess I had heard most of these stories more than once before but hand on heart I don’t think I ever tired of them She brought these experiences to life every time Jacky loved a captive audience and was always so grateful for it

I will miss her greatly Jacky Hedley-Tuffsone of life’s big characters

Nancy Spacey (by email)

NEARLY half a billion pounds has been spent on subscriptions that auto-renewed without people realising in the last year according to new research from Citizens Advice

The charity, which is calling for a ban on subscription auto-renewals, warns that many contracts rollover automatically without a customer needing to give consent This can lead to people being trapped in unwanted subscriptions for months and even years Calls for a ban on autorenewals are supported by 80 per cent of people in the UK

Citizens Advice found that people in the UK spend over £300million a year on unused subscriptions, with over four fifths of people with an unused subscription reporting that it had autorenewed

Caught in a trap

Subscriptions, which include TV streaming services, newspapers/magazines, food/drink, and beauty products, are a growing market Three in four people in the UK have at least one subscription However, the way that they are sold means many people feel like they are caught in a trap Techniques typically include offering a free trial after which people have to cancel, but many don’t remember to, and burying future costs and exit fees in the terms and conditions Through its research, Citizens Advice found 26 per cent have signed up to a subscription by accident When trying to cancel a subscription customers are often met with unnecessary barriers While it may only take a single click to sign up, there may be no option to close an account online Customers may also find that there’s a minimum period before they can leave be asked to pay an early exit fee, or offered an incentive to stay

Subscription traps adding to cost-of-living and mental health pressures

All of this puts extra pressure on already stretched budgets during the cost-of-living crisis Worryingly, the charity found that this is having a greater impact on people already in dif-

ficult circumstances, such as those with mental health problems or on benefits

The charity found that 66 per cent of people curren paying for unused subscr p have cut back on essentials over the last six months

The government has announced plans to tackle subscription traps with reminders sent at the end of free trials and at the point of renewal However, Citizens Advice is calling for a ban on automatic renewals and wants customers to be asked for their consent before being put onto the paid subscription

Dame Clare Moriarty, chief executive of Citizens Advice, said: Whilst the government s plans to tackle subscription traps are a positive first step, they don't go far enough More can and has to be done

Banning auto-renewals and ensuring people have to opt in, rather than opt out of subscriptions after receiving a free trial would save consumers millions of pounds ”

Citizens Advice’s top tips to help people avoid getting caught in a subscription trap:

• Know what you’re signing up for by making sure you know how long you’re committed and check the terms and conditions There should be no pre-ticked boxes for any payments, as they aren’t allowed

• Set a reminder for a week before the free period ends so you don’t forget to cancel if you decide you don t want the subscription to continue

• Check your bank/credit card accounts to see which subscriptions you’re paying for

For further help with unused or unwanted subscriptions contact Citizens Advice From January 2023 we are running an appointments only system at the Lyme Regis outreach on Wednesdays, 10am to 3pm at the town council offices in Church Street, DT7 3BS Call us on 01308 456594 to make an appointment

James and Natalie McCarthy Red Panda and East Kitchen + Bar

■ A ‘paw-some’ total of £255 has been raised this year by the proactive Lyme Regis Loving Dog Owners, Visitors & Friends Facebook Group STEPS Charity Worldwide, which supports children with lower limb conditions, Axminster and Lyme Regis Cancer Support and the Woodroffe School PTFA, received much-needed funds for their fabulous charities and those they support The money was raised at a group dog walk and dog photoshoot on the beach The friendly dog group holds a monthly social meet ups and welcomes dog owners and their friends. The next meet up is on Saturday, January 7 2023 with more details on the website doggoneshamelymeregis co uk

Restaurant rises to the top in local business awards

Tom’s restaurant in Lyme Regis was named Business of the Year at the Jurassic Business Awards last week.

The awards were held at Lyme Regis Football Club on Wednesday, following on from last year’s successful Lyme Regis Business Awards, now expanded to include Charmouth.

Organised by events management company Marketing West, the awards aimed to celebrate the achievements of local businesses in what has been a very challenging time.

After a nomination and judging process, Marketing West managing director Nigel Reeve welcomed guests to the ceremony where awards were handed out by event sponsors and the Deputy Mayor of Lyme Regis, Cllr Cheryl Reynolds.

Family-run seafront restaurant Tom’s came out on top, taking home the award for Restaurant of the Year and Overall Business of the Year.

Other winners were as follows:

● Independent Business of the Year: Sandyman's Chop Shop

● Start-Up Business of the Year: Shoreline Sauna

● Excellence in Customer Service: Lyme School of Ballet

● Green/Eco Business of the Year: Plastic Free Lyme

● Cafe, Pub, Casual Dining: Waters Edge Cafe

● Community Support: Lyme Regis Community Support

● Family Business of the Year: Charmouth Stores

● Best Place to Work: Bank House Cafe, Charmouth

● Tourism/Leisure Business: Monkton Wyld Holiday Park

Supporters and sponsors of the awards included LymeOnline, Action Coach (West Dorset), Higos Insurance Services, Westcotts Chartered Accountants, Reconnoitre Ltd, Wessex Video, Lyme Laundrette and MW Events.

Mr Reeve from Marketing West said: “These are grassroots local business awards that focus on promoting the range and quality of local business. We believe local business drives the economy, generates employment, innovates and opens new markets.

“The awards ceremony is not pretentious, it's relaxed, it's fun and it helps promote local businesses.

“The awards even have their own website. In the lead-up to the awards, it was viewed over 400 times, while the awards had more than 50 entries.

“Thanks to everyone for their support."

Plans are already in place for the 2023 awards which will be held on Thursday, November 23. More information is available at www.jurassicbusinessawards.co.uk

Proud winners of Restaurant of the Year and Overall Business of the Year, Tom Robinson, front left, pictured with his son and restaurant staff celebrating their double award at Tom’s on Marine Parade. Inset, receiving the top award from Cllr Cheryl Reynolds

Independent Business of the Year: Sandyman's Chop Shop Family

Monkton Wyld Holiday Park

Green/Eco Business of the Year: Plastic Free Lyme Start-Up Business of the Year: Shoreline Sauna

Support: Lyme Regis Community Support

LYME REGIS TOWN COUNCIL

■ OUR mayor was delighted to officially kickstart the first ‘Walk for Wellbeing’ recently Cllr Michaela Ellis met the group at Cobb Gate car park, where they will be meeting for a weekly walk around Lyme Regis every Thursday at 11am A ‘walk for wellbeing’ will include a gentle walk around Lyme Regis for about an hour with frequent stops to take in the beautiful views, stopping for refreshments afterwards at the community café at the Hub This group is free of charge with no need to book It is open to people 18 years and older and well-behaved dogs on leads are welcome to join For further details, contact Pam on 07717 736234

To wn council supports Warm Café

Christmas comes early for Ring & Ride ser vice

nal, Pat West and Rosalyn Blackmore said the new bus was more comfortable and much quieter than the old one

AS temperatures plummet, a warm space in Lyme Regis is keeping its heating on and the kettle boiled with the support of the town council Lyme Regis Development Trust is opening its community café at The Hub on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday afternoons during the colder months

The Warm Space opened in November and will continue into March, run by a team of volunteers, providing free tea, coffee, biscuits and friendly faces between 1pm and 3 30pm

David Tucker, chief executive of Lyme Regis Development Trust, said: Lyme Regis Development Trust is very grateful to the town council for its generous grant of £2,000 towards our ongoing programme to provide local people with a warm space at the Hub

“This kind support enables us to heat areas of the building On four afternoons a week we provide a heated space with free hot drinks and biscuits along with conversation and wifi

Lyme

on the road

The door-to-door service offers transport facilities to the elderly, disabled, parents with young children, and people living in isolated areas where there is no adequate public transport

As well as morning shopping trips to towns in the local area, they also offer afternoon and day trips to places like Otter Nurseries, Glastonbury and Sherborne

They recently invested in a new bus and invited councillors to see it and chat to passengers

Regular Lyme Regis passengers Marion Big-

Ring and ride chairman Sandra Ward said:

“We are delighted to be here in Lyme Regis with our new bus It’s been quite an uphill battle to firstly raise funds and then getting the bus which took nearly a year to deliver

“But here we are A far more comfortable ride for our lovely passengers We hope you all like it and encourage others to join us

“We also thank wonderful councils like Lyme Regis who appreciate the service we provide

“Looking forward to seeing old and new passengers And a very, very happy Christmas and a peaceful New Year, to all who support our service ”

For more information about Ring and Ride, call 07510 255965

D e p u t y M a y o r h a n d s o u t b u s i n e s s a w a r d s

There are now more comfortable seats, wi-fi, and Lyme Bay Radio playing, helping to make it a welcoming environment

The council therefore donated £2,000 to cover the energy costs for the warm space, recognising how vital this facility might be to some residents this winter

Support for mayor’s charity

THANK you to all those who donated to the mayor’s charities at the Lyme Regis Christmas Tree Festival

Cllr Michaela Ellis spent a lovely evening at the Baptist Church along with lots of other local organisations, decorating her tree in support of her chosen charities, Lyme Regis Pantomime Society and Axminster and Lyme Cancer Support

A wonderful display from all our hard-working local organisations and volunteers – we hope it brought plenty of festive cheer and raised healthy sums for good causes

Free parking for Christmas carols

THE last of our free parking days during the festive season will support the annual Carols Round the Christmas Tree Parking will be free in various town council and Dorset Council car parks all day on Friday 23 December to support local businesses and organisations

The participating car parks are: Woodmead, Cobb Gate Broad Street Holmbush and Charmouth Road

Council’s Christmas opening hours

THE council will close down for Christmas and New Year and provide essential cover during this period We will close at midday on Friday, December 23 and re-open at 9am on Tuesday 3 January Staff will be working throughout this period to provide essential services such as bin collections, parking and dog enforcement and emergency repairs All that remains is to wish our residents, businesses and visitors a happy Christmas and a healthy and prosperous New Year

“We believe that this type of provision will be needed for the foreseeable future, and the lessons we learn this winter will help us support people in coming winters

Warm spaces are also being provided at Lyme Regis Library on Mondays from 2pm to 4pm at the Cuppa and Company sessions, and Talking Café at Hallett Court has extended its hours during the winter, running every Wednesday from 10am

Ga teway Card offers gro wing

THE Gateway Card residents’ discount scheme has re-launched this month with over 20 local businesses taking part

We would like to say a big thank you to the businesses that have signed up to the scheme, supporting our community by offering back to the residents

All the cards have now been sent out to Lyme Regis residents who are on the electoral register and anyone who isn’t on the register including under 18s, can collect a card from the council office with a current council tax letter from Dorset Council

There are some great offers available on food and drink, clothing and gifts, with all the offers and participating businesses listed on our website at https://www lymeregistowncouncil gov uk/gateway-card

Also keep an eye on our social media pages as we’ll be featuring a ‘Gateway Business of the Week’ and their latest offer

If there are any businesses who would like to join the scheme, please contact us at enquiries@lymeregistowncouncil gov uk or 01297 445175

Book slots for Citizens Advice

THE Citizens’ Advice service, which runs from the town council offices, will be operating an appointment system from January

The outreach service operates on Wednesdays from 10am to 3pm and is currently a drop-in session, but this will be changed to appointment only

This will ensure clients aren’t kept waiting and are given plenty of time with an advisor

To book an appointment, please contact Bridport Citizens’ Advice on 01308 456594 and leave a message with your contact details

CHRISTMAS has come early for a community transport service with the delivery of a new bus

Regis Town Council provides a regular grant to the Axe Valley and West Dorset Ring and Ride Service to help keep the service

Cllrs David Ruffle, Caroline Aldridge, Gill Stammers and Belinda Bawden with Ring and Ride director Shirley Williams, secretary Keith Jones and passengers Marion Bignal, Pat West and Rosalyn Blackmore

■ THE Deputy Mayor of Lyme Regis, Cllr Cheryl Reynolds, was delighted to help present the accolades at the Jurassic Business Awards Congratulations to all the winners, who were announced at the ceremony at Lyme Regis Football Club last week All worthy winners, helping to showcase the wonderful independent businesses in Lyme Regis, Charmouth and the surrounding area See page 11 for full report

timeoutinLyme

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

Enjoy online festive performances this Christmas

AS its autumn season of performances draws to a close, Dorset’s touring arts charity Artsreach has re-released two digital performances, captured during lockdown in 2020, making them available to enjoy for free online in the comfort of your own home over the festive period

Celebrate the festive season with a mesmerising performance of Charles Dickens’ timeless, transformative story, A Christmas Carol’, de-

vised, adapted and performed especially for film by veteran Cornish actor and founder member of Kneehigh, David Mynne

Performed live at Winterborne Stickland Village Hall in 2020, expect Dickens’ original words with added silliness

Then, enjoy ‘A Dorset Christmas with The Ridgeway Singers and Band’ and hear the story of how our ancestors celebrated Christmas in

this film which features music, song, story and dance

In December 2020, Artsreach was delighted to support The Ridgeway Singers and Band, led by Tim Laycock and Phil Humphries, to capture an alternative festive offering that’s truly inspired by Dorset

With tunes and songs from the Puddletown and Hinton St Mary manuscripts, and new carols in the West Gallery tradition, interspersed with readings, archive photographs and other images from across Dorset, plus a special performance of ‘While Shepherds Watched Their Flocks by Night , expect a heart-warming seasonal celebration of all things Dorset Artsreach director Kerry Bartlett said: “With

the launch of our brand new spring season imminent, we are delighted to be able to spread some Christmas cheer to our audiences at home and to those who are often unable to attend Artsreach events in person ”

Both productions were originally captured and edited by Dorchester-based film company Pageant Productions and are available to watch online anytime until midnight on Sunday, January 1

E-tickets for all events are available from the Artsreach website, and whilst the events are free to view, donations to Artsreach are welcomed For further information and to register, visit www artsreach co uk

Wishing

Lyme Regis Branch

Since our formation in 2008 our fundraising has this year topped £200,000.

SWIM in Lyme Regis will welcome back DJ Tom Maloney to welcome in the New Year with a night of house anthems through the decades

Tom moved to Lyme Regis from Coventry three years ago and has vast experience in career as a DJ career, representing brands such as Ministry of Sound, Cream and Gatecrasher, to name just a few

Tom also DJs for Lyme Bay Radio and has a weekly show, Late Nite Lyme with Ashley Kellet, every Saturday from 10pm, and you can also catch him monthly on Decadance Radio Bristol with the Allsorts house show

Known for his ‘hands in the air’ anthems spanning many different genres of house music, from funky vocal disco, oldskool, tec house, mashups and trance to all the current biggest tracks of today

His strength is reading the crowd, adjusting

accordingly, and the ability to mix to a very high standard, with more than 25 years of experience playing in clubs with DJs such as Tall Paul, Seb Fontaine, Judge Jules and Carl Cox

Tom’s New Year’s Eve party at seafront bar and restaurant SWIM is expected to be a sellout success and tickets are now available to book via SWIM’s Facebook page

All Tom’s previous DJ nights at the venue have reached capacity ID may be required

If you enjoy house music, dancing and the company of like-minded clubbers then this is the place to bring in 2023 bang!

There will be a few surprises on the night that will definitely make your experience a memorable one

You can check out Tom’s radio shows and club mixes on mixcloud on the website www mixcloud com/tommymaloney76

timeoutinLyme

A month of film screenings at The Gateway

THE Gateway Theatre has the perfect line-up that won’t break the bank after the expensive month that is December, but you will find there is something for everyone with a brilliant selection of films, screenings and live music

With its premiere at the BFI London Film Festival, Roald Dahl’s best-seller has been turned into Matilda the Musical giving this super-powered schoolgirl a fresh Dayglo take Matilda (Alisha Weir) is a little girl with a big curiosity, a sharp mind and a vivid imagination, and the worst parents (Stephen Graham and Andrea Riseborough) in the world who bully and neglect her, contenting themselves with trashy TV and dodgy money making schemes

Whilst sticking pretty much to the original storyline, this film is a clever new version with its whacky colour schemes and cartoony craziness, and everyone will cheer Matilda as she dares to stand up to Miss Trunchbull and teaches her a lesson she won t forget

“Amusing, exhilarating and the tinniest bit exhausting” – The Guardian

Friday, January 6 – Family Film Picnic Night 7pm, and Saturday, January 7 matinee 3pm. Tickets adult £7.50, child £6.50

Emily is a loosely biographical drama about the Wuthering Heights author Emily Brontë that captures the Victorian era with a modern twist, as actor turned writer-director Frances O’Connor reimagines Brontë’s mental health issues in a way we can only now understand But he also shows this melancholy character as

being an opium user and having a very passionate affair with William Weightman, a parish curate who lived in the family home for several years Friday, January 13, Picnic Night 7.30pm. Tickets adult £7 50, child £6 50

The sexual abuse and bullying of now convicted American film producer Harvey Weinstein sparked the worldwide #MeToo movement She Said follows the dogged determination of two reporters, Megan Twohey (Carey Mulligan) and Jodi Kantor (Zoe Kazan) to reveal the truth behind the intimidation, harassment and rape of young female actors and junior staff, restoring the importance of women ’ s testimony against a man who thought he was untouchable “Excellent performances bring out the best in this David and Goliath story that reverberated around the world” – Evening Standard Friday, January 20, Picnic Night 7 30pm, Tickets adult £7 50, child £6 50

To round off the dark month of January, what better than the nation’s funkiest 10-piece band who are returning to The Gateway for one night only

Joey the Lips are the go-to band that will give you a full-on high-energy night of Soul, Funk, Blues and Disco, guaranteed to keep you on your feet to banish the winter blues So grab your coat, grab your friends, and grab the best time of your life, satisfaction guaranteed

Saturday 28 January, doors 7 30pm Tickets £20 (£22.50 on the door)

COMING UP AT

BACKSTAGE AT THE GATEWAY THEATRE

NOT for the first time, I was told I live in the wrong era To be fair, they re probably right I should have lived during the 1930s surrounded by opulence and going to swanky parties every weekend Maybe that’s why I love theatre and writing, I can whisk myself away to all manner of places

I find music can do that too, take you away from the here and now, to some other place We ve had a veritable smorgasbord of musical adventures this past month, with the incredible Liane Carroll performing under the Jazz Jurassica umbrella

Then there was a superb classical concert with the Seaton Music Society, and of course who could forget the utterly fabulous Magnificent Bublé Facebook was alive with positive vibes after that one, not unlike Angela who was showing everyone how to lose your inhibitions to the music that night

I’m going to be heading into a period of parental sorrow in 2023 It will be the last year of having a teenager in the house, although I cannot deny I hope, in the same way he morphed from an adorable child into an incoherent uncooperative youth he may morph into a responsible adult who works out how to lift the lid of the laundry basket rather than chucking everything on the floor next to it

We’ve been short of a theatre cleaner this month, they’re a bit like hen’s teeth But spending much of my time clearing up after my errant son at home it’s a bit of a busman’s holiday for me I just roll up my sleeves and pull on the Marigolds Did you see those ugly sisters and Prince Charming parading around town? I’ve heard that

in the true spirit of panto, they were getting up to all manner of mischief in the Tesco fruit & veg aisle

ARTS | MUSIC | THEATRE | WHAT’S ON | COMPETITIONS THEGATEWAYTHEATRE

What about that cold snap? I ended up bringing my hot-water-bottle in to keep my hands warm I rummaged in the boot of my car and found a few bits of clothing that have been there awaiting delivery to the charity shops, and ended up wrapping them round me to keep my extremities warm

We had our volunteers’ Christmas get-together when everyone brought a plate of something delicious to share We not only have a fantastic team of people who help keep things going here at the Gateway, but we have an incredible team of chefs I can tell you There was even a bit of dancing in a circle to the Christmas songs that Paul and Rebecca found amongst their CD collection

We had our Christmas staff ‘do’ Remember those days? Wearing your little black number, lots of snogging with people you’ve secretly fancied, and a sore head the following morning This time round, it was woolly jumpers, hats, scarves and coats, no snogging and no sore head

Of course, had I lived lavishly during the 1930s, I’m not sure I’d have survived the winter draped in liquid satins, not unless there was a battery powered heated blanket to wrap around me A Very Merry Christmas & Happy New Year to you all!

Sophia Moseley

FORE STREET, SEATON

MATILDA THE MUSICAL

Roald Dahl’s best-seller has been turned into Matilda the Musical, starring Alisha Weir in the title role alongside acting royalty Emma Thompson and Stephen Graham. Join The Gateaway for one of its popular Picnic Night screenings. January 6 & 7 | 7pm/3pm | Tickets £6.50/£7.50

EMILY

A loosely biographical drama about the Wuthering Heights author Emily Brontë that captures the Victorian era with a modern twist, starring Sex Education star Emma Mackey. Join The Gateaway for one of its popular Picnic Night screenings. January 13 | 7.30pm | Tickets £6.50/£7.50

SHE SAID

She Said follows the dogged determination of two reporters to reveal the truth behind the intimidation, harassment and rape of young female actors and junior staf by the American film producer Harvey Weinstein, which launched the #MeToo movement. January 20 | 7.30pm | Tickets £6.50/£7.50

timeoutinLyme

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

What’s on

Friday, December 23

Christmas Present Draw & Party Nag’s Head, 6pm

The Nag s Head will host its Christmas present draw from 6pm followed by a Christmas jumper party with prize for the best jumper Carols Round the Tree Broad Street, 7pm

The Rotary Club of Lyme Regis hosts its traditional carol service around the Christmas tree at the bottom of Broad Street, accompanied by Lyme Regis Town Band

Thursday, December 29

The Old School House Cafe

The Hub, 9 30am - 1 30pm

Community café open at The Hub in Church Street every Thursday and Friday morning affordable food and drink, free wifi

Friday, December 30

Crafts & Stories to Celebrate the New Year, Lyme Regis Museum, 10 15am Crafts and New Year Stories inspired by our unique British Wildlife with storyteller Lizzie Bryant

Town History Walk

Lyme Regis Museum, 11 30am

Join Chris Andrew for a blast of fresh air and history, with tales of fossiling, invention, exploration and invasion Tickets £8 95/£6 95 including museum entry

Sunday, Januar y 1 2023

New Year’s Day Duck Race

Windsor Terrace, 12noon

A duck race in aid of Lyme Regis Christmas Lights Committee Ducks available at lymechristmaslights co uk/buy ducks or from 11 15am at the start line on the day

Lyme Lunge Lyme Regis Beach, 1pm

The Rotary Club of Lyme Regis host this New Year’s Day dip in the sea, with swimmers encouraged to wear fancy dress and help raise funds for the British Heart Foundation, Mencap and other Rotary charities

Wednesday, Januar y 4

LRTC Human Resources Guildhall, 7pm

Members of the public are welcome to attend town council meetings and speak for up to three minutes in the public forum For agendas visit the website lymeregistowncouncil gov uk

Thursday, Januar y 5

The Old School House Cafe

The Hub, 9 30am - 1 30pm

Community café open at The Hub in Church Street every Thursday and Friday morning affordable food and drink, free wifi

Lyme Regis Community Bingo Woodmead Halls, 8pm Bingo night every Thursday,

raising funds for local organisations which are members of Lyme Regis Community Bingo Association Doors open 7 30pm, eyes down 8pm

Friday, Januar y 6

The Old School House Cafe The Hub, 9 30am - 1 30pm

Community café open at The Hub in Church Street every Thursday and Friday morning, affordable food and drink free wifi

Saturday, Januar y 7

Lyme Regis Loving Dog Owners Meet Up, Lyme Regis Beach, 10 30am

Lyme Regis Loving Dog Owners, Visitors & Friends Facebook Group welcome all dog-lovers to join them for their New Year social meet up

Live Music Night

The Nag’s Head, 9pm Weekly live band at The Nag’s Head from 9pm

Sunday, Januar y 8

Glengarry Glen Ross Auditions Marine Theatre, 11am Auditions for the Marine Theatre’s own production of David Mamet’s Glengarry Glen Ross to be staged in May 2023 More details at marinetheatre com Auditions continue until January 11

Monday, Januar y 9

Glengarry Glen Ross Auditions Marine Theatre, 5pm Auditions for the Marine Theatre’s own production of David Mamet s Glengarry Glen Ross, to be staged in May 2023 More details at marinetheatre com Auditions continue until January 11

Tuesday, Januar y 10

Glengarry Glen Ross Auditions Marine Theatre, 5pm Auditions for the Marine Theatre’s own production of David Mamet’s Glengarry Glen Ross, to be staged in May 2023 More details at marinetheatre com Auditions continue until January 11

LRTC Planning Guildhall, 7pm Members of the public are welcome to attend town council meetings and speak for up to three minutes in the public forum For agendas visit the website lymeregistowncouncil gov uk

Wednesday, Januar y 11

Glengarry Glen Ross Auditions Marine Theatre, 5pm Auditions for the Marine Theatre’s own production of David Mamet s Glengarry Glen Ross, to be staged in May 2023 More details at marinetheatre com Auditions continue until January 11

LRTC Town Management & Highways, Guildhall, 7pm

Members of the public are welcome to attend town

Send your diar y dates to francesca@lyme-online co uk Visit: www lyme-online co uk/events

council meetings and speak for up to three minutes in the public forum For agendas visit the website lymeregistowncouncil gov uk

Thursday, Januar y 12

The Old School House Cafe The Hub, 9 30am - 1 30pm

Community café open at The Hub in Church Street every Thursday and Friday morning, affordable food and drink, free wifi

Cézane: Portraits of a Life Marine Theatre, 1pm Exhibition on Screen is thrilled to be bringing back one of its most successful ever films, dedicated to the life and work of Paul Cézanne Tickets from £10 at marinetheatre com

The Shanty Sessions Marine Theatre, 7 30pm Local group The Chantry Buoys sing traditional sea shanties and other well known songs Join them for a fun sing-along with local drinks, old seafaring melodies and maritime frolics Free event

Lyme Regis Community Bingo Woodmead Halls, 8pm Bingo night every Thursday, raising funds for local organisations which are members of Lyme Regis Community Bingo Association Doors open 7 30pm, eyes down 8pm

Friday, Januar y 13

The Old School House Cafe The Hub, 9 30am - 1 30pm

Community café open at The Hub in Church Street every Thursday and Friday morning, affordable food and drink, free wifi

Saturday, Januar y 14

Film Screening: Elvis Marine Theatre, 6 30pm Baz Luhrmann’s hit film about the life of American music icon Elvis Presley, from his childhood to becoming a rock and movie star in the 1950 Tickets £6 50 from marinetheatre com

Live Music Night

The Nag’s Head, 9pm Weekly live band at The Nag’s Head from 9pm

Sunday, Januar y 15 Jazz in the Bar Marine Theatre, 7pm Saxophonist Neil Maya and pianist Philip Clouts celebrate Charlie Parker, one of the most influential jazz musicians of all time, forging a brand new genre in jazz, bebop, with fast tempos, virtuosic technique and advanced harmonies Tickets £12 available from marinetheatre com

Monday, Januar y 16

Talk & Book Launch: ‘Seining Along Chesil’, Woodmead Halls, 2 30pm Writer Sarah Acton and heritage boat builder Gail Mc-

Garva in conversation about the ancient traditions of seining communities in Dorset, with readings from Sarah’s new book Entry £2 for Friends of Lyme Regis Museum and £4 for visitors

Playing Reading Group: Headless Marine Theatre, 6pm Unleash your inner thespian with the Marine’s new Play Reading Group, reading a different play each month Free event

Tuesday, Januar y 17 Talk: Plane Simple - Flight Free Travel

Lyme regis Baptist Church, 7pm Why should we cut down on our flights? What are the problems with flying and what are the alternatives? Fiona Wood will lead a discussion and then talk about her world travels without flying, organised by Turn Lyme Green Free event

Wednesday, Januar y 18

LRTC Tourism, Community & Publicity, Guildhall, 7pm Members of the public are welcome to attend town council meetings and speak for up to three minutes in the public forum For agendas visit the website lymeregistowncouncil gov uk

Thursday, Januar y 19

The Old School House Cafe The Hub, 9 30am - 1 30pm

Community café open at The Hub in Church Street every Thursday and Friday morning affordable food and drink, free wifi Lyme Regis Carers’ Cafe

Lyme Regis Baptist Church, 11am Stay all morning or just drop in Anyone who looks after a friend, relative, partner or neighbour is welcome You do not have to be a registered carer For more details visit lymeregiscarerscafe co uk Lyme Regis Community Bingo Woodmead Halls, 8pm

Bingo night every Thursday, raising funds for local organisations which are members of Lyme Regis Community Bingo Association Doors open 7 30pm, eyes down 8pm

Friday, Januar y 20

The Old School House Cafe The Hub, 9 30am - 1 30pm

Community café open at The Hub in Church Street every Thursday and Friday morning affordable food and drink, free wifi Lyme Regis Comedy Club Marine Theatre, 7pm

Headliner Robin Morgan is a Welsh stand-up, writer and actor who has appeared on TV comedy favourites joined by David Arnold, resident compere Tom Glover and one more act to be confirmed

Musical talent shines in Lyme Bay Chorale’s Christmas concert

THE beautiful church of St Michael the Archangel was the setting for Lyme Bay Chorale’s Christmas concert of Baroque music, culminating in Haydn’s Nelson Mass, which provided moments of solemnity, reflection, hope and joy

The concert opened with Purcell’s Music for the Funeral of Queen Mary, for choir and brass The positioning of the brass behind the choir, and an ensemble of singers in the gallery, set a great atmosphere for this very dignified opening to the concert

The quality of the choir and soloists was instantly heard, with skilful blending of tone and some particularly beautiful building of vocal textures during ‘In the Midst of Life ’

There followed a selection from Handel’s Messiah featuring soloists Mark Hounsell (tenor) and Charlie Murray (bass)

The Messiah overture opened the section, played by the fine instrumental ensemble Mark Hounsell, with secure and unforced delivery, sang ‘Comfort Ye My People’ and ‘Every Valley Shall be Exalted’, impressing in the latter with virtuosic runs and control of dynamics

‘The Trumpet Shall Sound’ was sung by Charlie Murray with a confident, rich tone, and trumpeter Dominic Hammett played with an ease that belied the difficulty of this wonderful piece

To finish the first half, we heard one of Handel’s Coronation Anthems – ‘The King Shall Rejoice’

CONCERT REVIEW

By Helen Brind

Again, a beautifully controlled performance, with some excellent entries from the choir

The second half opened with another piece by Handel At short notice, Heather Wardle had very kindly agreed to stand in for Philippa Hyde (who was unwell) as soprano soloist throughout the programme

In ‘As Steals the Morn’ her voice was gentle and pure, with impeccable clarity and tuning Matched by Mark Hounsell’s calm, reflective tenor voice, this was indeed an exquisite piece.

Haydn’s Nelson Mass gave the choir, orchestra and soloists ample opportunity to demonstrate their skills

Alex Davies’s direction drew effective contrasts in timbre and dynamic shading from his singers Heather Wardle showed impressive flexibility, moving between coloratura passages and solemn sections with ease

Charlie Murray’s rich, intense vocal quality gave appropriate gravitas to the ‘Qui Tollis’ All the soloists (and the trio of alto choral singers) are to be congratulated on fine performances throughout

This was an impressive concert from this excellent choir, talented soloists and instrumentalists

Congratulations to Alex Davies and the Lyme Bay Chorale for a fine performance indeed

Singers from Lyme Bay Chorale (photo by Maisie Hill)

NEWS FROM AXMINSTER | SEATON | COLYTON | BEER

axevalleynews

Severe train disruption expected over Christmas

SOUTH Western Railway (SWR) is urging customers to check before they travel and expect disruption over the Christmas and New Year period due to strike action

This action includes a ban on National Union of Rail, Maritime and Transport Workers (RMT) members working overtime or on rest days and affects people in a variety of roles, including guards on trains as well as dispatchers on platforms and shunters in depots

This means that SWR's ability to operate train services is significantly limited throughout the extended period of industrial action, including services through Axminster

On some dates across this period, there are also major engineering works taking place which further complicates the planning of services

Due to strike action affecting Network Rail, limiting the infrastructure available to SWR to run services, customers are urged to only travel if absolutely necessary on December 24 and 27

On Christmas Eve there will be a reduced service with an early shutdown Some of the last services from London Waterloo will leave as early as 12noon, with all services finished and trains taken out of service by 3pm

No services will be running on Christmas Day and Boxing Day

On December 27, there will be a late startup from about 12noon, followed by a reduced service

Customers who have no choice but to travel should check the SWR website to see which services are running on these days

For the rest of the industrial action period, from December 28 to January 2, SWR will run a reduced service from 7am to 10pm only and customers should check their whole journey before they travel, as some parts of the network will be closed South Western Railway's performance and planning director, Steve Tyler, said: "We are very sorry that the RMT overtime ban will severely disrupt our customers travel plans throughout the Christmas period and into the New Year

"While not a strike, the overtime ban limits the number of trains we can get into service each day and we have had to make some difficult decisions to be able to provide a reliable and consistent service throughout the period

"We are urging customers to check their entire journey before setting off and thank them for their patience and cooperation during this damaging industrial action by the RMT "

In addition, the RMT has announced that its members at Network Rail and train operating companies, including SWR, will be taking strike action on January 3, 4, 7 and 7 2023

SWR will update customers once it has confirmed what service levels it can provide during this period

Customers are urged to check the SWR website for the latest travel advice for each day of the industrial action at www southwesternrailway com/strike

Proposal to redevelop town centre building and car parks in Axminster

PLANS have been submitted to tear down a town centre building in Axminster and create a new convenience store with nine apartments

If approved, the plans would see the former Lawsons Hardware Store building, now occupied as a gym, demolished and two adjoining car parks – off South Street and Lyme Street – redeveloped

The Lyme Street car park is saw on the site of the former Websters Garage, which has been earmarked for redevelopment since a fire saw it demolished in 2008

The new development would see the convenience store, providing 20 full time jobs, and a mixture of two-and three-bedroom apartments with private balconies, built over four floors on the site of the existing building and South Street car park

The flat roof fourth floor would be recessed from the floor below, designed to appear as the building's roof when viewed from the street

A private parking area for the shop would be accessed from Lyme Street and there would be a 36-bay public car park behind this A separate small parking area for the nine new homes would be accessible from South Street

The application, submitted by Hallmark Estates (Devon) Ltd, adds: "The application presents a rare and exciting opportunity to redevelop previously developed land in a manner that would enhance the character and appearance of the conservation area and provide high quality living conditions for future occupiers within a sustainable location, whilst re-

Seaton donor helps raise £20k for African amputees

AN anonymous Seaton donor has been instrumental in helping a charity hit its fundraising target after doubling all donations raised as part of a week-long campaign to increase its rehabilitation services for amputees in Northern Ghana

Legs4Africa's 'Step into Christmas ' campaign was designed to give hope to thousands of amputees in Ghana desperately in need of rehabilitation and peer support

Raising £10,000 in just seven days, the generous Seaton donor has now doubled the charity's efforts to bring the total to £20,000 allowing the team to complete its mission of increasing mental health rehabilitation services for amputees in the remotest areas of Northern Ghana

Tom Williams, founder of Legs4Africa, who works closely with NHS clinics and hospitals to collect unwanted prosthetic limbs to save them from going to landfill and matches them with amputees in Sub Saharan Africa, said: "We are so grateful to the kind generosity of our Seaton donor Without their support, and all of the kind donations we have received, it would not be possible to continue our much needed support programs

“Rehabilitation is a big part of supporting an amputee to come to terms with this new phase in their life and navigate the challenges they face The 'Step into Christmas' campaign will now provide real hope to amputees in the remotest areas of Ghana, and we couldn't be

more grateful to all of the kind donations that have now made that possible

About 1 7 million people in Africa are awaiting prosthetic limbs, which are almost impossible to locate outside of the Legs4Africa centres, with about 66 per cent of amputees suffering from mental health issues due to limb loss in Western Africa

Legs4Africa, which has saved thousands of unused prosthetics going to landfill, has helped thousands of individuals walk again while providing ongoing mental health and wellbeing support

The £20,000 raised will now go to training and supporting up to four new workers who will help to support individuals facing limb loss in coming to terms with their situation and find positive support to rebuild their lives after surgery

Started in 2013, the charity has shipped over 14,000 prosthetic legs to African clinics that would have otherwise ended up in landfill They currently partner with local mobility centres across the UK and recycle high-quality prosthetic legs with minimal environmental impact

By 2025 the charity hopes to increase the number of limb fitting centres it works with across Europe, Canada and the USA, to recycle unused and returned prosthetics

Ambassadors for the charity include Paralympian Julie Rogers and TV presenter Alex Brooker For more information, visit the website www legs4africa org

vitalising the vitality of this part of Axminster town centre "

You can view the full plans on the East Devon planning website

at planning eastdevon gov uk by searching application number 22/2322/OUT

tionline

Award for local painting firm

A SEATON-based painting and decorating firm has picked up a national award

Actionline Decorating, owned by Nick Dodge, won the Exterior Project category at the Dulux Select Decorator Awards after completing a project in Sidmouth

Nick picked up the award at a black tie ceremony at the National Painting and Decorating Show in Coventry

Actionline Decorating – which carries out a lot of heritage work on National Trust and listed buildings as well as private homes – has been a Dulux Select Decorator for the past 10 years, meaning it is assessed and approved by inter national brand Dulux

Nick himself has more than 30 years experience in the trade and was praised by award judges for his eye for detail

The proposed development in Lyme Street, Axminster (credit: Pure Architects)

Nick Dodge (left) collects the award for exterior project on behalf of Ac-

Decorating at the Dulux Select Decorator Awards

NEWS FROM AXMINSTER | SEATON | COLYTON | BEER

axevalleynews

Colyford and Colyton formally split

COLYFORD is to formally split from Colyton and get its own parish council in what has been described as a " once in a generation" opportunity for the village

The new Colyford Parish Council will come into legal effect on April 1 2023 with elections held the following month for seven members Colyton Parish Council, which previously included Colyford, will also see its membership reduced from 13 to 11

The separation comes after a Community Governance Review was launched, after 249 residents of Colyford signed a petition calling for their own council, as it had its " own identity and sense of place, and that community cohesion will be enhanced by having its own village council

A recommendation from East Devon District Council's (EDDC) Cabinet to establish a new parish council in Colyford, and detailing a new boundary for the village, was approved at last week's full council meeting

But those against the separation did not give up without a fight, with the heated meeting shining a light on acrimonious feeling between the two sides and raising questions about what was and was not democratic

Some members of Colyton Parish Council and East Devon said the proposals would unfairly leave Colyton with most of the area ' s assets to maintain, while losing £16,000 in the council tax precept from Colyford residents, as well as lucrative land in the change of boundary 'Democracy has prevailed'

Ian Priestly, chair of Colyford Village Residents Association, which campaign for the separation, thanked EDDC officers and councillors that had supported the Community Governance Review (CGR), commenting: "They had to cut through a range of emotional issues and argument to recognise the facts and figures, and saw and hopefully believed in our vision for the future of Colyford "Democracy quite rightly has prevailed and overcome any personal or political feelings Our village's precious farmland has been sold to developers for housing over the years and we must accept everything that comes with that trade; it's not all about counting the money, there's always consequences and changes were inevitable

"Colyford has expanded very quickly over a relatively short period to over 800 people, making it the largest village in East Devon without its own parish council Simply, we were allowed to get too big and that alone warrants a dedicated council "When any settlement is expanded like this, for better or worse, the dynamics change The status quo has been ripped up through development and made it difficult for Colyton to now manage us effectively

"Colyford, provided we get the green light this evening, will need time to prepare to govern, without hindrance, hampering or heckling in anyway; we need to work together now in a professional manner and abide by this council's decision

"The creation of a new parish council is now hopefully happening and whilst I understand completely that not everyone is 100 per cent happy with the final decision, it needs to be accepted We need to prepare and service the community without undermining or anymore ill feeling

"Colyton Parish Council will now have time to focus in greater detail on any adjustments and manage a less daunting size of a parish

"I urge you to listen to the advice of your Cabinet and trust their judgement If you have been lobbied, please ignore the title tattle and trust your Cabinet; they have worked hard to reach their decision The fate and welfare of Colyford and its 800 residents rests on tonight's decision "

'Once in a generation opportunity'

Julian Thompson, leader of the Colyford CGR Steering Group, added: "Democracy is a way of governing that depends on the will of the people and

SPECIAL REPORT

By Francesca Evans

the key CGR issue is to restore democracy for Colyford with a new parish council – a once in a generation opportunity

"The current governance for Colyford has become systematically dysfunctional over time, is broken and cannot be fixed Our community belief is that we have the skills, experience and competency to constitute and operate our own parish council We also have the values and ambitions; we are prepared and determined

"Colyford has come of age and should be permitted, as its statutory right, to address pressing issues with our own funding We wish to use our own identity, our heritage and our enthusiasm to deliver an effective and efficient parish council to restore democracy for our community The challenge is affordable and can be delivered

"Whatever your tribe, this vote should not be political; this is a vote to support the will of the Colyford people to restore democracy for an historic, rural community of 800 that is one of the largest in East Devon without a council "

Colyton parish councillor Alison Stenning raised concerns that three fields owned by Colyton Parish Council, on New Sidmouth Road, would be transferred to Colyford as a consequence of the proposed new boundary, the rent from which went directly towards the cost's of the town's cemetery

"Colyton parish will end up footing the bill for all the amenities in Colyton, and there are many amenities, while residents of Colyford will still be able to enjoy them without contributing a single penny towards maintenance costs," she said

"In fact, Colyford will only have its small play parks and gateways to maintain so I really cannot see any reason for the transfer of these valuable assets to them

"In a time of scarce resources when everyone is short of money and people cannot afford to heat their homes, I urge you to reject splitting our parish as this will cost both the district council and everyone living in the present parish of Colyton a great deal of money which they don t have No one wants a huge hike in their council tax bill

'Dividing friends and neighbours' Cllr Stenning also raised issue with the questionnaire sent to residents as part of the Community Governance Review, saying: "Residents were not fully informed when the CGR questionnaire had to be filled in, thinking it was only a consultation and there would be a vote later when they had been fully informed of the effects of a split

"This is dividing friends and neighbours, particularly in Colyford, strangely enough

"Colyton Parish Council has four councillors from Colyford and they could have up to 13 if they were elected, and they are absolutely treated equally as we have always been one parish and Colyford has never been refused any reasonable requests

"I urge you not to split our parish, and please don't railroad through this important matter to all the residents of Colyton parish

Fellow parish councillor Joy Gardiner, read a statement on behalf of Colyton parish Council chair, Andrew Parr, who also raised concerns with the questionnaire

His statement read: "The CGR questionnaire has conflicting evidence in the replies A lot of people commented against the split; 195 comments made and 56 in favour

"Why were these comments ignored and when Colyton Parish Council asked for a proper ballot to establish clearly what the residents wanted, why was this refused?

"Proceeding on these grounds will result in the acrimonious split between the communities, which have lived in harmony together for over 120 years "Colyton Parish Council will be left with all the fi-

nancial responsibilities; 22 assets that have to be maintained, Colyford will have two Why order a transfer of assets – the three fields – when Colyton Parish Council needs the money as they will lose £16,000 contribution from the Colyford residents to their precept?

"The fields are worth £140,000 with an annual rent of £3,600 There is no need to transfer them simply because they are located within the Colyford suggested parish boundary A new Colyford Village Council could sell this land "

Speaking on her own behalf as a Colyford resident, Cllr Gardiner added: "At the time when financial constraints and fiscal responsibility is in the forefront of the kinds of all councils, be it country, district or parish, it is not in the interest of Colyton or Colyford residents to split and form a second council

The result of the two councils will be an increase in administrations costs and potentially an increase in council tax for all residents The divisive action it will cause simply does justify the end results " East Devon District Council leader, Paul Arnott, who represents the Coly Valley as a member of the Independent East Devon Alliance, and is also a member of Colyton Parish Council, then spoke publicly on the issue for the first time, saying: "I don't think I can stay silent after what I have just heard " EDDC leader criticises parish council

He then launched a scathing attack on Colyton Parish Council, criticising it for its lack of diversity and its close connections to landowners and the Colyton Chamber of Feoffees

I have seen great, hardworking representatives from the Colyford community being very poorly treated and disrespected at Colyton Parish Council," he said

Cllr Arnott also said that the Colyford Village Residents Association had been "wickedly abused"

He defended how the Community Governance Review process had been carried out, saying that every household received a detailed consultation document and had the opportunity to have their say, but some parish councillors were "too indolent to respond and react", but were now trying to launch last minute objections

Cllr Philip Skinner (Conservative, Tale Vale) questioned why Cllr Arnott was allowed to give a "tirade of his view at the meeting, when he had declared a personal interest in the matter at previous meetings

Officers explained he was able to speak on the matter but would then have to absent himself from the meeting, which Cllr Arnott later did before the matter was discussed by councillors

Cllr Vicky Johns (Independent, Ottery St Mary) later questioned why Cllr Helen Parr, who also represents Coly Valley as a Conservative and is wife of Colyton Parish Council chair, Andrew Parr, was allowed to comment and remain in the meeting for the discussion

Cllr Helen Parr objected to Cllr Arnott's remarks, describing them as insulting, in more taste and adding: It most disrespectful to Colyton Parish Council and cast a slur on councillors and landowners "

Cllr Parr said she was unable to support the proposals and complained that they had been added to the agenda at late notice

"This is a very important decision and will effect residents directly and financially through their council tax," she said "When we were first asked about this, we received a questionnaire; it wasn't a voting paper or ballot paper, it was a questionnaire It nowhere says that if you give your views, this is your vote, in effect "Is it democratic to ask people their views without any information and then rely on a tick box answer?

'What has Colyford been refused?'

Cllr Parr continued: "There was recently a byelection in Colyton for three new parish councillors and there was every chance for the Colyford Village Residents Association people to be elected, and one was "It's extremely disrespectful for people to say they

are not being represented and they want to restore democracy It's highly ironic, they have four councillors on Colyton Parish Council And when have reasonable requests from Colyford been refused?

"Residents' council tax is going to be affected and the precept for Colyton Parish Council will be £16,000 less but the assets they have to maintain will remain the same The income from fields is another £3,000 so that brings it up to almost £20,000 lost in one hit, it's quite unreasonable

"I'm convinced that the process is undemocratic, it is not good governance to in effect make people vote without telling them that they are voting, and to not give them a proper vote on something so important to this ward

"If it was truly what residents wanted Colyton Parish Council would have supported it but they do not think that this questionnaire shows the true feelings of residents, and I cannot support it " Cllr Johns said the same thing happened when Ottery St Mary split with West Hill, which "took a large chunk of the precept with it"

She continued: "But you get over that, you learn to deal with it The idea of democracy is that everyone gets their say and if the majority say they want to split, who are we to tell them they can't?"

Cllr Philip Skinner said the case of Colyton and Colyford was very different to Ottery St Mary and West Hill because they were "two small villages that are more or less coalesced with one another" Colyton is in fact a town, although smaller that Ottery St Mary

'Stronger together'

Cllr Andrew Moulding (Conservative, Axminster) said: "Colyton and Colyford are much stronger together Many letters against the idea have been put forward and I do not think anyone wants to create a division between Colyton and Colyford

"There have been claims that under investment in Colyford has led to this proposal being brought forward; my submission is that nothing has been done by Colyton Parish Council to under invest in Colyford

"I think this submission would see assets of the parish council, which have been maintained by the parish council, being grabbed by the residents of Colyford who are in favour of this suggestions

"The boundary seems to be wrong and there's no reason why these areas of land should be stolen by unelected representatives This should never happen "

Cllr Moulding called for no further progression on the matter until a proper ballot for residents of Colyton and Colyford was held, with full detail and financial information given, as he said there had been " no indication on the questionnaire that it would result in the separation of the two settlements"

Cllr Paul Hayward (Independent East Devon Alliance, Yarty), said: "This is about democracy and every member of the Colyton and Colyford community had the opportunity to respond

"Some issues generate an awful lot of community response and some, such as election we ' ve all fought, are often though on an apathetic basis We cannot force members of the public to be involved

"What I find dispiriting personally is the vitriolic enmity between neighbours and parish councillors who really are only there to serve the public good "

Cllr Sarah Jackson (Independent East Devon Alliance, Axminster), added: "Those form Colyford feel that they have a separate identity to those from Colyton, and it doesn't matter if they are a town or a village; there are other villages which have separated because they feel they have two separate identities

"I compel members to really consider what voting against these recommendations would really mean, and that; s disregarding the majority of people who responded to the initial consultation on whether or not they felt they had a unique identity "

It was eventually agreed to allow Colyford to form its own parish council with 28 councillors voting in favour

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STOCKING FILLERS, boxed Lledo cars, vans and buses, £2 50 each - 01297 24745

LOUNGE CHAIR, black, mahogany wood stand and legs, with matching footstool, very comfortable and in excellent condition, no marks, £60 ono - 01297 442198

A4 CONCERTINA FILES, brand new files, 34cm x 24cm x 11cm carrying handle on the top with two catches to keep them securely closed, total of 24 slots for documents, etc with one central slot so they hold a lot of paperwork, £2 each or 12 for £20 - 01297 442719 or email gkwarr46@gmail com

LADIES BIKE, Trek, 17 5” frame, 15 gears, brand new, cost £400 and selling for £199, ideal Christmas present - 01297 792545

TELEVISION, LG 28 inch screen, 18 months old, excellent condition, executor sale, cost £230, selling for £60 - 07936 046 434

BABY BOUNCER SEAT, used once, buyer collects, £10 - 07967 522 061

CHANGING MAT and bowl free buyer col-

ITEMS FOR SALE

lects - 07967 522 061

PLAY TENT, folding, pink, very good condition, buyer collects, £5 - 07967 522 061

RODENT CAGE, Cosypet RC03 36” x 26” x 70” high (including wheeled base) various levels and ladders, good condition, photos available, dismantled, buyer collects, now reduced to £70 - 07967 522 061

ENGLAND RUGBY SHIRT, new with tags, size L, cost £34 99, selling for £15 - 01297 443930

MEN’S SHIRT XL red tartan brand new cost £19 50, selling for £12, idea Christmas present - 01297 443930

MEN’S SHIRTS, XXL, M&S green check, pure cotton, in original packaging, cost £19 50, selling for £12 - 01297 443930

MEN’S SHIRTS M&S white 15½ blue stripe 15½, new, £10, ideal Christmas presents01297 443930

PAINT, 2 5 litre tin of sky blue silk finish emulsion by World of Colour, £10 - 01297 443930

PAINT, 2 5 litre tin of ice pink emlusion matt finish £10 - 01297 443930

BLOW UP BED, single, new and still in box, £10 - 01297 443930

DUVET & PILLOW COVERS, single, £3 - 01297 443930

WOMEN’S SHOES M&S leather shoes size 6

some unworn, some evening shoes, £5 per pair - 01297 443930

MEN’S OVERCOAT, wool, navy, chest size 3840, very good condition, hardly worn, cost £140, selling for £25 - 01297 446788

FIRE GUARD, Babydan, five sections including gate and wall fixings, £85 - 01297 560742

COT BED, mattress and fitted sheets, only used a few times, £80 - 01297 560742

SHEEPSKIN COAT, grey, size 10, £60 - 01297 560742

MOUNTAIN BIKE, specialized Rockhopper Comp, 26" diameter wheels, M frame, suspension forks, regularly maintained, good condition, £85 ono - 01297 561260

VICTORIAN WRITING SLOPE, secret drawers, fair condition, £75 - 07527 538 863

OLD STAMP ALBUMS, 12 in total, £20007527 538 863

FIRST DAY COVERS ALBUMS, eight bespoke albums from 1973-2007 £80 - 07527 538 863

WORLD STAMP ALBUM, Antigua - Yugoslavia, 60 - 07527 538 863

FULLY SUBMERSIBLE PUMP, Katsu 400W, 7500L/H 1 5” outlet complete with 10m 2” lay flat discharge hose polyvinyl, as new, £3507971 991 012

RODENT CAGE, Cosypet RC03 36” x 26” x 70” high (including wheeled base), various levels and ladders, good condition, photos available, dismantled, buyer collects, £85 ono - 07967 522 061

classifieds&jobs Lyme

NEW WEDDING DRESS, size 12, stunning white ivory tulle and lace, unused with built-in boned bra, deep V-neck front and back court train £150 - 01297 445451

PORTABLE STEAM PRESS, compact and like new, temperature control dial, busts of steam, manual instructions brochure, padded surface, easy to use, collect only, £75 - 01297 445451

DINING CHAIRS, six brown leather and light oak roll back chairs, £60 - 07484 781 137

SOFA, 3 seater, burgundy leather with mahogany carvings embedded at ends, cost £600, selling for £100, photos available on request, beautiful furniture, as new - 07789 537 011

CEILING FAN/LIGHT, white with gold coachwork (Tennesse style), three speeds, switch and two pull-cords, photos available on request, £40 - 07789 537 011

JIGSAW PUZZLES, 500-1000 pieces, good quality, House of Puzzles, Gibsons, Falcon, etc, various subjects, from £2 each with all profits to Devon Air Ambulance - 0748 751 6791

Send your items for sale up to the value of £200 to LymeOnline, Unit 5 Uplyme Business Park, Uplyme Road, Lyme Regis, Dorset DT7 3LS or email listings to edit@lyme-online.co.uk

SEASONAL SEAFRONT AND BEACH CONCESSIONS MARCH TO OCTOBER

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

Dorset. DT7 3HQ

Application Deadline: 17th January 2023

Trampolines

Front Beach on the sand/shingle close to the jetty Childrens’ games Front Beach, Marine Parade, public gardens and activities

The council will consider offers for a one-year tender for 2023, or a three-year tender from 2023 to 2025, 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 or on request from adrianne.mullins@lymeregistowncouncil.gov.uk Tenders must be returned, preferably by email to the address above, by 5pm on Tuesday 10 January 2023. Applications will be considered at a council meeting on Wednesday 18 January 2023.

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

Ladies getting in a festive mood

LADIES from Lyme Regis Golf Club played their traditional Santas v Elves nine-hole competition in freezing temperatures last week

The 31 players, representing the broad spectrum of experience and golf handicaps within the club, took part in a three-ball Bowmaker (2 Stableford scores counting from 3)

The golf was followed by muchneeded and warming mulled wine and mince pies

Lady Captain Mary Minter organised the event and later presented both the winning Elves team as well, as the runners up, with a small but welcome prize

The competition came a few days after the ladies section enjoyed their annual Christmas lunch where a turkey carvery was served with all the trimmings

Three teams vying for the top spot

AXMINSTER Conservative Club have eased into the top spot in the Lyme Regis Winter Cribbage League The Con Club have a single point lead over second placed Volunteer Inn Lyme who have a game in hand Volunteer Inn Lyme are out in front in the Beer Leg, having played one more game than Castle Inn Axminster in second place Results (December 19): The Hind Musbury 0, New Inn Kilmington 5 (Beer Leg 1-2); Axminster Con Cub 3, Barrel of Beer B 2 (B/L 3-2).

THREE teams are vying for top spot in the Lyme Regis Skittles League - Flyers, Marksmen and Rousdon Rebels, all on 18 points, although the Rebels have a game in hand Results (week ending December 17): Clueless beat Trappers (game given); British Legion 368, Roadrunners 318; Hopes Wrecked beat Skittso’s (game given); Pen Pals beat President’s Men (game given); Anthill Mob beat Alleytwits (game given); Wootton Wobblers 299, Hot Gossips 293; Marksmen 358, Rousdon Rebels 393; Skittle Me Timbers 256, Flyers 326 High Scores: Phil Studley 76, Simon Beal 70, Alan Churchill 70, Jason Lee 70

Guest speaker at the event was LymeOnline and Nub News editor

Francesca Evans, who spoke about her career in local journalism

From the left: Lesley Elliott, Marina Cave, Wendy Cannings and Kathy Briggs

Lady Captain Mar y Minter pictured with Rosie Jackman, Gilly Madill, Beth Rowlands-Rees and Heather Prior

■ THE annual Christmas darts shield event open to all players participating in the Lyme Regis League was held at the Axminster Conservative Club last Saturday Eighteen players took part in the competition Rob Millwood took home the shield after beating Ray Powell in the final after some great darts throughout the evening by all the players Special thanks go to the Conservative Club for hosting the event There was a special family moment for Phil and Fred Heath of Uplyme who both took part in the competition

m e O n l i n e S p o r t

cricket football

Seasiders back in third place

AFTER three successive defeats, two in county cup competitions, Lyme Regis 1sts returned to winning ways with a crucial 1-0 win over Dawlish United

The three points saw the Seasiders finish 2022 in third place on equal points with second placed University of Exeter 2nds

There is very little between the top six clubs with Elmore lurking down in ninth place but having played just five matches in the first half of the season

If they won all their games in hand they would be in second place behind leaders Alphington on 33

points from 12 games

With Dawlish down in 11th place with only two wins all season, Lyme were expected to return home with maximum points, but there are no easy games in this decision and it took a late goal from Callum Garrett, one of Lyme’s most consistent players, to grab the winner

Whilst manager Julien Simier will be satisfied with ending the year in

third place, he will be looking for more consistency from is squad in a season so far marred by injuries and unavailability

Lyme will return to action on Saturday, January 7 with a home fixture against Crediton United who are lying in seventh place but having played only eight games

This will be followed by a trip to Kentisbeare on January 14

Aussie signs up to play for Uplyme

Player of the month awards

UPLYME and Lyme Regis Cricket Club have announced their overseas players for next season

He is 18-years-old Preston Hilless who plays Premier first grade cricket for Eastlake CC in New South Wales Hilless is an all-rounder opening bat and right arm medium paced bowler

Announcing the new signing on the club’s Facebook page, Uplyme chairman Steve Batey said: “We are very excited that our new overseas player has put pen to paper for the 2023 campaign.

“We wish him well and are thrilled that he’ll be gracing the King George V playing field this season ”

Last year’s overseas player at Uplyme, Abhishek Anand, was a tremendous success, finishing as the Devon Cricket League’s C Division top run scorer

PHILIP EVANS philip@lyme-online co

Lyme 1st team December - joint winners Mike Knight and Dan Beer

Lyme Regis Reser ves December - Jon Davies

Lyme Regis Reser ves November - Will Meech

Lyme 1st team November - Ben Turner