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Council returns to recording meetings LYME Regis Town Council is to look into audio recording its meetings again, after members said it would improve transparency, accuracy of the minutes and behaviour in the chamber. The town council previously installed video and audio recording equipment in the Guildhall at a cost of £6,493. However, the recording of meetings was scrapped in 2016 as the equipment was deemed “not fit for purpose”. Councillors have now asked for costs of audio recording equipment only, with some members saying it would improve openness and transparency with the public, as well as councillors’ behaviour. The Mayor of Lyme Regis, Councillor Michaela Ellis, said she was not convinced by the arguments in favour of recording meetings, and councillors’ behaviour “should already be impeccable”. Councillor Jeff Scowen, arguing in favour of recordings, replied: “It should be, but it’s not.” Some members also said that audio recordings could be used to improve the accuracy of the council’s minutes, but town clerk John Wright said the minute taker would still rely on their notes to write the minutes.
LYME Regis resident Clive Juster - who was editor of TV series ‘Mr Benn’ was presented The Special Award at the British Academy’s Children’s Awards - one of the academy’s highest honours - for a life devoted to children’s television. See page 3 for full story. Photo by Richard Austin
Crossing a no go?
Rock legend’s auction boosts charity funds ROCK legend Ian Gillan has helped to raise more than £11,000 in much-needed funds for youth music charity B Sharp. Mr Gillan, lead singer of Deep Purple and the band Gillan, donated musical equipment and memorabilia for auction to raise funds for the Lyme Regis-based charity, via Omega Auctions Ltd. REPORT, PAGE 7
PEDESTRIAN CROSSING RECOMMENDED FOR REFUSAL
PLANS for a pedestrian crossing in Broad Street, Lyme Regis, have been recommended for refusal ahead of a Dorset County Council meeting next week.
The county council’s Regulatory Committee will make a final decision on the proposed puffin crossing on December 6, with officers
FRANCESCA EVANS
francesca@lyme-online.co.uk recommending that the £82,500 scheme be scrapped. Lyme Regis Town Council first requested a pedestrian crossing in 2016 when more than 600 residents signed a petition in favour of the idea, but several councillors have since retracted their support
and the plans received significant opposition when they went to public consultation. After Dorset County Council drew up initial plans for the crossing, councillors expressed concerns about its proposed location between the Pug & Puffin and Joules stores, and the number of on-street parking spaces that would be lost initially thought to be seven or
eight. County council officers said the location was the only practical position for the crossing, because of access to private properties and car parks, and the disabled parking bay outside Boots. However, they agreed to reduce the length of the zig-zag markings on the lower side
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Published by Lyme Regis Media Limited Hyper-local website and fortnightly newspaper serving the communities of Lyme Regis, Uplyme & Charmouth. Unit 5 Uplyme Business Park, Uplyme Road, Lyme Regis, Dorset DT7 3LS www.lyme-online.co.uk edit@lyme-online.co.uk Facebook: facebook.com/LymeOnlineUK Twitter: twitter.com/LymeOnlineUK Instagram: instagram.com/lymeonline Editor: Francesca Evans francesca@lyme-online.co.uk 07810 221 420 Contributors: Philip Evans philip@lyme-online.co.uk Richard Austin edit@lyme-online.co.uk Production: Jackie Evans jackie@lyme-online.co.uk Regular Columnists: Sophia Moseley, Marine Theatre Mark Vandeweyer, Citizens Advice Peter Lacey, Tales of Lyme’s Past
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Councillors retract support for crossing as county nears decision CONTINUED FROM FRONT PAGE of the crossing, meaning it would only result in the loss of four or five spaces. Despite their concerns, town councillors agreed to continue their support for the scheme, saying there was “no other option”. Speaking in October 2017, the Mayor of Lyme Regis, Councillor Michaela Ellis, warned that the crossing would “kill the town”. However, town and district councillor Cheryl Reynolds - who organised the initial petition has retained her support for the scheme, arguing that a crossing is needed to help people cross the street safely, especially the elderly, disabled and those with young children. At the latest Town Management & Highways Committee meeting, which Councillor Reynolds did not attend, Councillor Derek Hallett said: “I’m inundated with people telling me we don’t need it. The town is jammed up 90 per cent of the time, we just don’t need it.” Councillor Brian Larcombe added: “This is something that’s going to cause more problems.” Councillor Stan Williams asked if the council could “resolve plainly that we don’t want it” while the county council was still considering the matter. However, Councillor Jeff Scowen - chairing the meeting in the absence of Councillor John Broom - said it was now out of the town council’s hands. In the report to be considered by the county’s Regulatory Committee, officers said there had been six personal injury collisions in Broad Street in the last five years, five of which were recorded as “slight” and one as “serious”. Two of these collisions had involved young children on foot, including the serious accident, but the road layout and lack of crossing were not cited as factors in the incidents. When plans for the puffin crossing were put to
AN image of Broad Street with dotted line showing where the proposed puffin crossing would be sited public consultation, the county council received 43 letters of objection and nine in support. Those in support said they recognised the need for a safe crossing point, while those objecting expressed concerns about the potential for traffic congestion, possible tailbacks and the loss of onstreet parking. Some also said it was currently easy to cross Broad Street. The officer’s report concluded: “Having considered the representations received, Cabinet be recommended not to support the provision of a puffin crossing as advertised, due to the loss of on-street parking which would increase air pollution and could adversely affect businesses. “It is considered that the risk of potential impacts on local businesses, from the loss of parking and loading provision, outweighs the benefits of a crossing.”
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IN MEMORY
CASE, Helen 16/7/1943 – 15/11/2016 In loving memory, always in our hearts and thoughts, so sadly missed and never forgotten, loved forever. Love John, Jacki, Gary, Kev, Marie and all the grandchildren. Love you Grandma.
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Lyme resident receives BAFTA for lifetime in children’s television LYME Regis resident Clive Juster - who was editor of the popular ‘Mr Benn’ children’s television series - has received one of the highest honours from the British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA).
Mr Juster was presented with the Special Award at the British Academy Children’s Awards, held at The Roundhouse in London on November 25. The BAFTA Award was presented for a life devoted to children’s television. Clive grew up in London and originally trained as an architect but chose not to pursue this field. He had always enjoyed making films on his fa-
FRANCESCA EVANS
francesca@lyme-online.co.uk ther’s 8mm camera, so he decided to go back to college to study film and photography, landing him a job as a trainee editor at the BBC. He worked for some time as film editor on BBC’s ‘Play School’ before moving to Axminster to take over the family business in property. While living in Devon, he created a cutting room in his spare bedroom and continued to work as a freelance editor. When a friend from college called and asked him to take over his role editing new children’s TV show ‘Mr Benn’, little did Clive know that the series would become his lasting legacy, still pop-
Virgin Care not given chance to bid for medical centre contract VIRGIN Care, which currently runs services at Lyme Regis Medical Centre, has said it would be happy to continue running the practice when its contracts expires in January 2019 - but it has not been given a chance to bid for the new contract. The company has been subjected to a great deal of criticism over their five-year term of running the medical centre, but said recent reports that it did not plan to renew its contract to continue running services at the medical centre were incorrect. A spokesperson for Virgin Care said: “It is incorrect to say that Virgin Care will not be renewing its contract to run the primary care services
at the Lyme Regis Medical Centre. “The Dorset Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) has not given us the opportunity to bid to run the services when our contract ends. However, we have agreed a short contract extension to 31 May 2019 to allow the CCG to progress its plans for the centre. “Indeed we would be very happy to continue to run the practice especially in light of the recent Care Quality Commission report which gave us an overall rating of ‘good’ and also rated our services as ‘good’ across all five measures of safe, effective, caring, responsive and well-led.”
ular today as it approaches its 50th anniversary. Clive worked closely with ‘Mr Benn’ creator David McKee and the pair became great friends. He later went on to set up an antiques business in Honiton, but returned to children’s television on David’s suggestion, and together they set up King Rollo Films, based on a series of books David had been writing. Joined by animator Leo Nielsen, they created the first episode of ‘King Rollo’ and took it to the BBC, where they were asked to make a whole series. Animated children’s television was a novelty at the time, and the series also sold to 20 countries across the world. Clive became producer at King Rollo Films and has continued editing, producing and directing ever since, with other series under his belt including ‘Spot The Dog’, ‘Towser’, ‘Maisie Mouse’ and ‘Paz’. Most have been based on children’s books, with David writing a lot of the material for their work over the years. Speaking on their original series, Mr Juster said: “‘Mr Benn’ still keeps me very busy. It was shot on film, all hand drawn and everything moved by hand. It gave it a distinctive look that is very different to what we see today. It was all
homemade in our backroom whereas now you have big teams and modern technology. “Our latest things have been done with digital animation, which make them look quite superb.” It will be the 50th anniversary of the first screening of ‘Mr Benn’ in 2021 and there are plans for a feature film and even an opera in the pipeline. This is the second BAFTA Mr Juster has received, having won an award in 2002 for ‘Maisie Mouse’. He said this Special Award came as a complete surprise, as he had always considered himself a “backroom boy”. He received news of the award a month before the star-studded ceremony, and was presented with the honour by his friend Anne Wood, creator of the Teletubbies. Mr Juster, who moved from Axminster to Lyme Regis last year, commented: “It was very nice to be recognised. I’m very lucky that I have worked on some beautiful things over my working life with some fantastic and very talented people. “Great actors and musicians have contributed to our films over the years. It’s been a lot of fun!”
Trust to fund new bike for triathlete Florence
Photo by Tom Shaw/Superleague Triathlon
Record crowd for Ken’s last ‘Shady Tree’ talk LYME Regis resident Ken Gollop attracted a record crowd to the Woodmead Halls in Lyme Regis for the last of his nostalgic ‘Tales From Under Shady Tree’ talks. Having started the talks in the 1990s, they have become a popular annual event with local residents keen to look back over photos of days gone by and listen to Ken’s informative and humorous anecdotes. His final talk was originally supposed to take place in March but was called off twice due to
snow, and was finally held on Sunday, March 18 when a record audience of 250 packed the Woodmead Halls. Ken spoke about how he developed an interest in local history and covered topics such as housing developments, road accidents, policing and pubs with his collection of photos, as well as sharing several of Shady Tree itself - a popular meeting point for young people, cut down to make way for the Anning Road estate in the 1950s.
A YOUNG Lyme Regis woman has swiftly graduated from borrowing her mum’s shopper bike in order to compete in her first triathlon, which she won, to now competing alongside Olympic stars the Brownlee brothers. Florence Swan, aged 19, is on the verge of qualification for the GB Under 23 squad for elite racing in the International Triathlon Union. In the 2018 season, Florence definitely saved “the best till last”, rounding off with three cracking races, culminating with her best result in the last race of the Triathlon Super Series and finishing 7th at the U20s Festival. However, while swimming costumes and running shoes are reasonably affordable, Flo needs help to fund a decent training bike, which is estimated to cost £2,500. The fundraising drive is being spearheaded by the Lyme Regis & Uplyme Sports Development Trust, founded by the late Paul Messer. The trust supports local promising sportspeople, both to fulfil their potential and encourage them to share their enthusiasm and dedication
with a goal to inspire other youngsters. Current projects include sending a talented local cricketer to Australia, for intensive training and playing with Melbourne club, Deepdene Bears, and supporting a new Under 16s girls’ football team. The trust has recently been strengthened by the appointment of Sarah Clark, joining local sports veterans Martin Rowe and Philip Evans MBE, and businessman Justin Tunstall. The trustees feel that Flo’s potential deserves their assistance and have already been successful in raising money towards the bike. However, additional donations are needed and would be gratefully received via Lyme Regis & Uplyme Sports Development Trust, care of 1 Charmouth House, The Street, Charmouth, Dorset DT6 6PF. Further details can be obtained from chairman of the trust, Justin Tunstall, by emailing jurassicdirtshirt@gmail.com
LOOK OUT FOR OUR NEXT ISSUE ON DECEMBER 14 Until then you can catch up with the latest at www.lyme-online.co.uk
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NEWS ONLINE: Catch up with A round-up of the top stories from our website
Cabaret raises £600 for Dorset Women’s Refuge MORE than 100 people attended a fundraiser for the Friends of West Dorset Women’s Refuge on Sunday, with star guest being actress Hermione Norris. The ‘Cabaret and Cakes’ event was held at the Marine Theatre in Lyme Regis, providing an afternoon of varied entertainment, served alongside tea and cake, which raised more than £600.
Runaway van crashes into car A RUNAWAY van crashed into a car at the bottom of Broad Street, Lyme Regis, last Friday morning. The van was parked near Roly’s Fudge Pantry on Broad Street when it is thought to have suffered handbrake failure. The driver saw the van rolling away and chased it down the street. He shouted to the driver of a parked car in the Cobb Gate area to move out of the way, saving her from injury at the last minute.
The van collided with the car, which in turn crashed into the front of Cobb Gate Fish Bar, causing some damage to the building and significant damage to the car. No one was injured in the incident. The fish and chip shop was closed having recently been sold with the adjacent Rock Point Inn. Lyme Regis fire crew and police were called to the incident and a recovery truck eventually removed the vehicles from the scene. Photo by Rob Wheeler
Watercolours made easy for art group Only tool to help you get healthy Funding to tackle domestic abuse PAINTING with watercolours can be tricky but Paul Arnott made it look and sound easy during his demonstration for Lyme Regis Art Society. Paul completed a beach scene in watercolours, talking members through his techniques as he painted. For further details on Lyme Regis Art Society meetings, visit the website www.lymeregisartssociety.org.uk
LIVEWELL Dorset is placing personalised, healthy living advice at the fingertips of the county. My LiveWell is a new online tool with tailored tips to help adults in Dorset get healthy. It helps you make lifestyle changes and kick unhealthy habits, such as drinking too much, smoking and eating an unhealthy diet.
FUNDING has been secured to help tackle domestic abuse across Dorset, Hampshire and the Isle of Wight.Dorset County Council is supporting Hart District Council in leading on an innovative project bid to prevent domestic abuse and support victims across the region, securing £1,297,125 of funding.
Follow LymeOnline on social media to stay up to date 24/7 facebook.com/ LymeOnlineUK twitter.com/ LymeOnlineUK instagram.com/ lymeonline
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Christmas concert with West Dorset orchestra A PROGRAMME of Christmas music performed by West Dorset Community Orchestra will be held on Wednesday, December 12 at St John’s Church in West Bay, Bridport, from 7.30pm. The orchestra will be conducted by Walter Brewster and local vocals directed by Lesley Whatley. Entry is free but there will be a retiring collection at the end. Mince pies and refreshments serve din the interval.
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FROM LYME’S OW N COMMUNIT Y WEBSITE
Stay up to date at www.lyme-online.co.uk - 24/7 news | sport | community Always plenty to be proud of in Lyme
Roadside litterers told to clean up their act A NEW campaign has been launched in Dorset aimed at people who throw their rubbish out of car windows. ‘Don’t be a TOS53R’, launched by Litter Free Dorset in partnership with Keep Britain Tidy, has been designed to send a hardhitting message to drivers and their passengers that our roads are not a network of litter bins – and that the owner of a vehicle can be fined up to £100 if rubbish is seen being thrown out of a car window.
Popular zero waste shop wins new business award THE Green Weigh - a mobile, zero waste shop that’s touring West Dorset - has proved such a hit that it was named Dorset’s New Business of the Year at the recent Wessex FM Local Business Awards. The business was launched in August to reduce plastic waste and makes weekly stops in towns and villages across the area, including Lyme Regis and Charmouth.
THERE’S no fighting it any longer Christmas gets underway in Lyme Regis this weekend. Strings of lights have been popping up in Broad Street for the past week and the massive Christmas tree has stood stoically in The Shambles, battered by wind and rain, ready for the big switch on tomorrow (Saturday). Let’s all keep our fingers crossed that the weather improves. The switch-on of the Christmas lights has always been one of my favourite events to cover. The late Barbara Austin MBE would oversee the festivities with her usual gusto and the voluntary committee have continued her hard work to ensure Lyme has a display it can be proud of every year. The illuminations now have a reputation for being among the best in the South West, with visitors flocking to town to enjoy Lyme under the twinkling lights. November has been a busy month in the LymeOnline office as we put together the Christmas edition of our popular Lyme Life Magazine, which is now out and available to pick up for free at various local outlets. It includes the ultimate guide to Christmas shopping in and around Lyme Regis - everything from the Christmas turkey to unique gifts for friends and family - plus special features on upcoming Christmas events, a festive food and drink section and your chance to win a Christmas hamper worth £100! If you haven’t got your copy yet,
look out for the LymeOnline stand at the switch-on of the Christmas lights, where we’ll be handing them out. You can never be at a loss for things to do in Lyme Regis during the Christmas period. Just take a look at our ‘Christmas in Lyme’ special on pages 10 & 11, which is choc-a-block with festive fun for all the family! But enough about Christmas for now... looking through the pages of this week’s LymeOnline, it struck me how much we have to be proud of and celebrate no matter what time of year. B Sharp’s auction of Ian Gillan memorabilia raised a whopping £11,000 (page 7), Mrs Ethelston’s in Uplyme has been listed among the top schools in the country (page 8) and we even have our own BAFTA winner in town! At a recent conference I attended on the future of local journalism, one of the speakers said, “The best thing about community journalism is that you get to write about people you know - and the worst thing about it is that you get to write about people you know.” I couldn’t agree more, but this week is definitely one to celebrate the best things!
Francesca Evans, Editor
N E W LO O K
Pop-Up Vintage market Scouts get to grips with car mechanics returns to Town Mill CONTINUING to celebrate the holiday season, the Town Mill in Lyme Regis is delighted to host a family duo for the first time and to welcome back the popular Pop-Up Vintage. The ‘Son & Mother’ exhibition will be the Malthouse Gallery until december 5 while Pop Up Vintage returns to the Courtyard Gallery until January 3.
SCOUTS from 1st Lym Valley recently visited Cobb Garage in Lyme Regis over a two-week period to get to grips with the basics of car maintenance as part of the mechanics badge. The Scouts learned about how engines work, replacing a road wheel, changing the bulbs on the car and many other maintenance tasks.
LYM E R E G I S
Sunday Sequence Every evening 8-10pm Dancing Fitness that’s ‘Strictly’ Fun New dancers welcome
Fun, Fab, Dance Based Fitness Join Sarah on Tuesday mornings from 10-11am for 1st session free Call 07788 946 427 for more information Other regular events include Ballet, Yoga, Pilates, Bingo and Short Mat Bowls
Christmas show for all the family A FAMILY Christmas show inspired by Hans Christian Andersen’s traditional tale will come to the Marine Theatre in Lyme Regis this December. ‘The Little Match Girl’ will be held on Thursday, December 20. See page 11 for full details of Christmas events at the Marine.
To book the Woodmead Halls telephone Michaela Ellis on 07856 630975 Follow us on Twitter @WoodmeadHalls and Facebook at www.facebook.com/woodmeadhalls
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LYME MATTERS with Philip Evans Essential reading for all those with Lyme at heart
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philip@lyme-online.co.uk
Ten steps to becoming a good councillor W
ITH recent shenanigans in the Guildhall turning Lyme Regis Town Council into a bit of a laughing stock, it makes you wonder whether anyone will want to seek election when the town goes to the polls next May.
Would-be mayor and social media afficionado Jeff Scowen is confident that a number of new candidates will be putting their name forward for the 14 seats. At the last election only ten people put up for election and they had to co-op four members. Which means none of them had a public mandate. I know of three existing councillors who are planning to step down, possibly before the election, because they are fed up with the current goings-on. Others I know stay away from attending some meetings because they can’t stand the bickering between some councillors. This is not the way to run a town. I sincerely hope Jeff is right because somebody has to do the job and it can be very rewarding in terms of helping to shape the future of Lyme. As a former councillor and mayor, and someone who has covered local government from the smallest Devon parish to Tower Hamlets Council in London when they elected their first BNP candidate, here are my ten tips for anyone who thinks they would like to offer their services for our town council. Be sure you have the time to do the job properly and can attend as many meetings as possible. It’s a big commitment with the current council meeting more than 60 times a year. I often wonder why a town of just 3,500 permanent inhabitants needs so hold so
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many meetings but Lyme, because of its popularity as a tourist attraction, punches much above its weight and generates the cash to involve themselves in numerous projects which would not be possible in other small towns. Do your homework. Find out exactly what the responsibilities the town council has. When things go wrong most people blame “the council” and the town authority often gets unfairly criticised for matters over which they have no control and which are the responsibility of other authorities. For new councillors training will be available after election. Remember the role is voluntary although limited expenses are offered to town councillors. Go along to a few council meetings before making up your mind to stand and see how the council operates. It may, of course, put you off but generally speaking much of the business is conducted in a friendly manner. Overall, they’re not a bad bunch. If you decide to stand, it is a must (although not obligatory) that you produce an election address and have it delivered to every accessible letterbox in town. That’s around 1,80o in number. At this level of local government, it’s rare that candidates knock-on doors to introduce themselves but if you decide to do so always be polite and refrain from getting into any doorstep arguments. In your election address, give brief details of your personal life and your interests and state why you have decided to offer yourself for election. Lyme Regis Town Council is non-political so don’t get into party politics. When there has been fierce competition for seats, some candidates produce a poster and/or take out an advertisement in a local newspaper. If you decided to stand it’s always advisable to show your face at the polling station to demonstrate
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your keeness to serve the community. If the election is held in conjunction with the new Dorset Council election, the count will almost certainly be in Dorchester, candidates will be able to attend this to be satisfied the process is fairly conducted and be in a position to demand a recount if required. If elected, it’s advisable to watch and learn at your first few meetings. I failed to do this (you won’t be surprised to learn) and regretted it because I offended some long-serving members who thought I was a bit too vocal. Nobody likes a know-all. Make sure you study all the paperwork produced by the office so that you are well informed about the matters under discussion. If you don’t understand it, ask the town clerk. In coming to a decision on how to vote on the matter under discussion, be your own man or woman. Don’t attached yourself to any clique and vote with your conscious on what you believe is the right decision for the town. I could quote many examples of councillors voting one way or another in opposition to someone they don’t like in the council chamber. Show your support for local events and attend Lyme’s civic ceremonies. Finally, show respect. Democracy is all about opinions and remember all your fellow councillors are entitled to theirs. They say politics is about the art of the impossible; that’s partly true in local government. You will not please everyone all the time so the ability to take on board differing views without taking offence is essential. And can I lay to rest one persistent rumour. I am definitely not standing for election myself, despite being asked to by a number of people in recent weeks. The last thing Lyme Regis Town Council needs is another 70-year-old who thinks he knows it all! I really do hope that some of you out there put your names forward and restore the council’s reputation. It’s what the town deserves.
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Up go the trees on most of the shops CHRISTMAS officially gets underway in Lyme Regis tomorrow (Saturday) when the town’s festive illuminations (the best in the area?) will be turned on. Virgil Turner and John King are pictured putting up the last of 69 Christmas trees above Broad Street shops, a herculean task and a few less than usual but still an impressive number. Of course, it could be more if the national outlets supported the town that works so hard to attract visitors to Lyme to boost
their profits, but the organisers gave up long ago expecting support from the high street giants. It’s good to see FatFace joining in the spirit but unfortunate other big names have not followed suit. One national outlet ordered a tree last year but failed to pay for it - so what’s the point? And a big shout out for the hotels, restaurants and pubs in the town who have made a big effort to make their premises as festive as possible.
For me the wheel has turned full circle IT’S a matter of great mirth in some quarters in the town when I’m seen every other Friday delivering copies of LymeOnline. When the comments are deliberately caustic, such as “how the mighty have fallen” I usually reply with “I started as a paper boy and it looks like I’m finishing as one as well”. And that’s true. Just before I started work as a cub reporter on the Express & Echo in Exeter I used to deliver the Echo every evening to a number of homes in Lyme. In fact, for the first few weeks of my job I used to bring the papers back to Lyme and deliver them on the way home before we
found a new paper boy (well, man actually, it was Ronnie Bastone). We put out 4,000 copies of LymeOnline in Lyme, Uplyme and Charmouth. Two thousand two hundred of them are direct delivered to houses and the rest are bulk drops at various pick-up points around the town. I have eight youngsters and a couple of adults who deliver the papers door-to-door and a number of volunteers who do likewise in their own streets (30 or so copies) because they are keen to get the paper. I actually like doing the deliveries every other Friday. It takes around five hours and keeps me fit and helps keep my weight
down, although when I first started it wiped me out competely for on the following Saturday. I also bump into a number of people whilst delvering who say how much they like the pape and that’s always good to hear. The geography of Lyme means it’s not possible to get kids to deliver to some areas so we are still looking for people who would like to help out and deliver a few in their road. So if there’s anyone out there who lives in West Hill Road, Hill Rise, Portland Court, Timber Hill, Dragon’s Field and Garmans Field who would like to help out, please get in touch (07796 951991). See page 22
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Ian Gillan auction raises £11,000 for music charity
DEEP Purple’s Ian Gillan with youngsters from B Sharp ROCK legend Ian Gillan has helped to raise more than £11,000 in much-needed funds for youth music charity B Sharp. Mr Gillan, lead singer of Deep Purple and the band Gillan, donated musical equipment and memorabilia for auction to raise funds for the Lyme Regis-based charity, via Omega Auctions Ltd. Bidders had the chance to get their hands on several rare pieces of rock history, including Ian’s drum kit, signed memorabilia, photographs, a number plate from world tours, and a rare handwritten book which itself sold for over £6,000. Two of B Sharp’s young music leaders, Jon Pogson and Jacques Verhaeren, worked with Mr Gillan who used to live in Lyme Regis and is a patron of the charity - to catalogue the items that were auctioned. The star himself offered them a lot of help, providing details of the history and significance of each item. Mr Gillan commented: “It was
great to visit B Sharp headquarters in Lyme Regis. The buzz was palpable and reminded me so much of my early days, practising every available minute with all the other budding ‘musos’ from our council estate in Hounslow, West London, back in 1962.” The auction offered a once in a lifetime chance to bid on exceptional items, and everyone who took part has contributed to providing funds towards the work of B Sharp in offering young people an opportunity to play live music. Hannah Lovegrove, chairman of B Sharp’s board of trustees, said: “This is such a big win for B Sharp. We are absolutely thrilled. It’s a significant amount of money, one that allows us to do something really useful for the young people involved with B Sharp. “I’m so pleased for Ian too – in bidding for these lots, the fans have demonstrated their huge respect for him and his lifelong contribution to rock music around the world. We are immensely grateful to him.”
A letter of thanks from outgoing B Sharp director Fran Williams ■ I WOULD like to take this opportunity during my last week as director of B Sharp music charity, to say a very big and heartfelt thank you for all of the support and friendship over the last 12 years since B Sharp began. Lyme Regis now figures on the national stage with recognition of B Sharp as a leading charity in the area with its pioneering work with children and young people through music. Lyme Regis Town Council and West Dorset District Council have played a huge part in this, both recognising the value of and investing in our work. The charity was founded in 2007 with young people, amidst a growing frustration with a lack of activities and opportunities, training and employment. B Sharp inspired and led the campaign to open and save The Hub from development (then the Boys Club) and the venue continues to thrive. Many of our participants, who come from all walks of life, have had experiences and opportunities through music that have changed their lives. They’ve made new friends, formed bands and worked with world-class musicians on prestigious stages. B Sharp performed to worldwide attention at the opening of the Olympic sailing events in Weymouth in 2012, to name but one occasion. Many have gone on to do things they would never have dreamt of doing. It is hard to cover the sheer range of work that B Sharp does both locally and further afield. We work in early years, schools, run events large scale and small, write commissioned pieces of music, put on festivals like the Busking Festival and Big Mix, as well as running regular sessions at local venues. Most importantly we work directly with young people to make these things happen, helping them develop skills and experiences for their future lives and careers. There are far too many stories to share but I’d like to share a few comments from some B Sharpers. Phoebe Townsend: “I can’t explain
to you how much confidence I have gained. I have been given so many crazy opportunities such as performing at the Weymouth Olympics, performing at the Big Mix Festival and have been able to travel to some incredible places… experiences that I could’ve only of dreamt of if this organisation was not available.” Harvey Causley: “B Sharp has given me to this day some of the best experiences of my life. I would not have become the man or musician I am today if it wasn’t for B Sharp and the opportunities it gave me. “B Sharp has allowed me to not only develop my musical skills through band work, composition techniques and improvisation, but has also helped me develop my social skills, having to work with new faces all the time as well as having the confidence to lead music sessions and present myself to the public. “Most importantly though, B Sharp has introduced me into music leadership, helping to lead music sessions with young people ranging from 3-17 years old! It really is a dream job, and to see the fantastic final outcomes in our performances makes all the hard work worth it!” Matt Hartnell: “Without B Sharp in our area the youth music scene would be entirely down to the youth themselves. I know many opportunities and collaborations, which would not have arisen without B Sharp and its different facets, from the formation of bands to Inter-age group recording projects. “I think B Sharp is the most inspiring organisation in the area and it needs to continue to grow in order to continue developing its full potential as a hub for local musical activity. “I have completed my degree in music performance at the Academy of Contemporary Music in Guildford. It’s something that I may not have done without the help and direction of B Sharp. I used B Sharp performances and projects as examples of my musical experience when applying and received a non-inter-
view offer which I later found out was based on the strength of my application.” Jacques Verhaeren: “I have been sitting here trying to think of a line that will do justice to what B Sharp has done for me over the last few years, but when it has contributed to a lot, it is really hard to put it into a single sentence. I guess I can thank B Sharp for the direction my life is going in now. “Before I was struggling to find a place or a voice in music, and in just a short period of time I have had many doors open to me with a very bright future for both myself and B Sharp.” I’m proud to be handing over such a vibrant and much cherished creative organisation to Ruth Cohen, B Sharp’s new director. Ruth has a long experience of similar work with Daisi, an arts organisation in Exeter Devon. I’m leaving B Sharp in her capable hands along with a fantastic team and network spread across Dorset and Devon, along with a community of parents, young people and friends who are just as passionate about this work as we are. There is much to look forward to and still much to do. I’m sure you will continue to give B Sharp and Ruth your support in the way that you’ve given it to me – we can’t achieve these things without you. If you are interested in joining our weekly sessions or would like us to work with you in your setting, get in touch by emailing info@bsharp.org.uk or call the B Sharp office on 07947 334 138. B Sharp is looking for a new board secretary and potential trustees. If you think you have something to offer to help take the work forward get in touch with Ruth on ruthcohen@bsharp.org.uk If you would like to donate to B Sharp to support, visit the www.bsharp.org.uk - there is a donate button on the homepage. Fran Williams
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Aromatherapist releases new book to great acclaim THE Aromantique Studio is located within the artisan business community at the ambient Town Mill, conveniently situated at the heart of Lyme Regis, next to the River Lim and just moments from the seafront. Heather’s passion for essential oils and the art of aromatherapy was instilled in the early 1970s, when she worked for Robert Tisserand. She studied at the University of Salford and was awarded a BSc (Joint Hon) degree in Counselling and Complementary Medicine, and Masters certificates in Supervision of Counselling, and Mindfulness. Awarded a Post Graduate Certificate of Education from the University of Bolton, Heather worked at the Salford University as Programme Lead for the BSc Integrated Therapies in Practice degree, and Module Lead and lecturer, among other roles. Speaking of her passion for aromatherapy, Heather said: “All the complementary therapy principles and practices I studied are effective and valuable healing and wellbeing tools. However, essential oils fascinate, intrigue, my curiosity and interest the most. “Essential oils possess a spectrum of wonderful qualities that make them very effective and versatile. They are pleasant, and inspiring. But importantly, they are incredible antimicrobials, skin care and healing agents, and psychosomatic aids – they uplift, brace, calm mood and emotion, aid concentration and memory, among many other significant qualities.” Heather recently published her first book, ‘Essential Oils for Mindfulness and Meditation’ - available to purchase at Serendip and Kate’s Kitchen (Town Mill) in Lyme Regis, and Archway Books and Collate in Axminster - acknowledged by Inner Traditions (Healing Arts Press) as one of their “bestselling recent releases”. Commenting on the book, Elaine Perry PhD, professor emeritus of neuroscience at Newcastle University, said: “There is a unique way to enhance psychological well-being waiting to be explored.
This book tells you how meditation and aromatherapy, classic tools for modifying the mind, can work together to maintain a state of calm and insight.” Heather recently signed a contract for her second book, ‘Essential Oils for the Whole Body’, due to be released in autumn 2019. On Thursday, December 20, Heather will be holding book signing events at Kate’s Kitchen at the Town Mill from 1pm to 3pm, and at Amid Giants & Idols Coffee House in Silver Street from 4pm to 6pm. To book your bespoke aromatherapy appointment contact Heather by emailing heather@aromantique.co.uk or call 07419 777 451. Gift vouchers are also available for the Christmas season. To learn more about other book-signing events, essential oil and meditation workshops, or about purchasing Aromantique essential oils visit www.aromantique.co.uk
Essential Oils Therapy, Massage and Training
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Mrs E’s among top schools in country MRS Ethelston’s Primary School in Uplyme has been ranked as one of the top 250 primary schools in the country. The school was listed in last weekend’s prestigious Sunday Times Best UK Schools Guide one of only two from the South West in the list. With just under 21,000 state primary schools in the country, this achievement is a reflection of the quality of teaching in the school. The Sunday Times report is widely acknowledged as the most authoritative survey of the country’s best schools and is now in its 25th year. With parents of pre-school children entering school in September 2019 having only until the 15th January to apply for a place this report is an invaluable resource to help parents select the best schools for their children. Michaela Kite, headteacher at Mrs Ethelston’s, said: “This is a fantastic achievement and I am
supremely proud of both pupils and staff for achieving this well-deserved result. It is a real recognition of the hard work that both pupils and staff put in across the school.” Andrea Rice, executive head of the Acorn Multi Academy Trust, of which Mrs Ethelston’s is a part, added: “This really shows that it is possible to rise to the government’s challenge of being the best in the world for teaching and recognition of the professionalism of the team at Mrs Ethelston’s. “It clearly demonstrates their commitment to delivering the best possible outcomes for the children. This is further evidence that by working collaboratively as a group of rural schools, where government funding can be lower, we can achieve exceptional results.” If you have a child due to enter primary school in September 2019 and would like to visit Mrs Ethelston’s please contact the school office.
Residents hear plans to settle Syrian refugee family in Uplyme DESPITE dreadful weather, more than 80 people from Uplyme and Lyme Regis packed Uplyme Village Hall last Friday to hear plans to run a Community Sponsorship scheme to resettle a refugee family from Syria in the area. Display boards were set up in the hall, showing the experience of neighbouring schemes in Devon and enabling residents to learn more about the government scheme. Sarah Uppard explained the Community Sponsorship scheme and how it could work in Uplyme. Anna Roderick, the project leader of the Abide group in Ottery St Mary, then described their experience from an initial public meeting in October 2016 to greeting and helping to settle a Syrian family in September 2017. Anna explained the process, timescales, challenges and highlights with humour and sensitivity. She felt the community benefits in Ottery had been inspiring, as people working together formed new relationships, learning from each other as well as about different cultures. The secondary school students had been very keen to be involved and creative community events to raise funds and to link other Syrian families in Devon had been very successful. An enthusiastic question and answer session followed where issues such as religious and cultural differences, minimising risks of racism, support from the government and local councils, language teaching and translation provision, sign-posting to other specialised services, and time and financial commitments were covered. Residents were also invited to talk individually to Sarah, Anna or Uplyme Community Sponsorship volunteers and to leave their con-
tact details if they were interested in contributing time and skills to the scheme. The Uplyme Community Sponsorship group would like to welcome anyone who is interested in lending support or in further information to contact them by email on uplymecommunitysponsorship@gmail.com Further information on the scheme is available at www.gov.uk/government/publications/apply-for-full-community-sponsorship
PUPILS of Mrs Ethelston’s Primary School in Uplyme pictured with headteacher Michaela Kite ■ YOUNGSTERS from Uplyme PreSchool raised £60 for Children in Need. The children brought their teddies to preschool for the day for a special teddy bear’s picnic, which was enjoyed outside despite the gloomy weather. The money was raised through donations and a raffle.
SHOP LOCAL: SUPPORT YOUR VILLAGE SHOPS AND BUSINESSES
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Luke hands over fundraising baton after making £4,000 CHARMOUTH resident Luke Bearpark doubled his fundraising target for the Children in Need appeal, making a total of £2,000 through events and donations. Teenager Luke has been raising funds for the charity by hosting a bake sale in the village centre for years. As his last year as a ‘child’, Luke set himself the target of raising £1,000 for this year’s appeal, before handing the fundraising baton over to fellow Charmouth resident Kayley Farmer. Alongside his annual bake sale, he also organised a bingo night, raising £338.50, and a quiz night, which made a total of £200.10, both held at The George in Charmouth.
The bake sale raised a further £735.56 and personal donations and a collection tin in Charmouth Stores brought the final total up to £2,000.42. This year’s funds bring Luke’s total made for Children in Need since he started fundraising to £4,200. He said: “Charmouth, you truly are amazing and thank you for supporting my fundraising efforts over the years. You really have shown your spots and raised lots for BBC Children in Need! “I happily hand over the baton so to speak to Kayley Farmer, who is taking over the reigns of the bake sale as off next year.”
Scouts feel the need for speed!
CHARMOUTH resident Luke Bearpark pictured at his Children in Need bake sale, with Kayley Farmer who will take over the annual event next year
QUALIFIED FOOT HEALTH PROFESSIONAL Peter Mellor MCFHP MAFHP AN all black box kart designed, built and steered by female members of the 1st Charmouth Scouts came second in the Downhill Section of the Dorchester and West Dorset District Box Kart Race. Annabel Mackenney volunteered to pilot 'Stealth' down the treacherous slope at Freshwater Holiday Park, using the experience she gained last year when she came third. By managing to steer an almost straight
course, and avoiding the tussocks and hummocks, she was able to coax the kart the second furthest down the slope before running out of steam. 'Stripe', the troop's red and white second kart, did not fare quite as well, but all eight Scouts who entered the annual event had a great time and escaped unscathed from their downhill, cross country, sprint and tarmac races. ■ CHARMOUTH Primary School PTA were among the latest good causes to benefit from The Co-operative Membership Community Fund. The fund donates one per cent of money paid by Co-op members to local organisations, with members able to vote for which cause they would like to give their money to. Lyme Regis Sea School and the Town Mill were also presented cheques after the latest round of fundraising in the Lyme Regis store. Lyme Regis Football Club and Lyme Regis Development Trust have now been selected for the next round.
Registered Member of The British Association of Foot Health Professionals We provide a friendly and professional service, in the comfort of your own home. Flexible hours from a visiting practice.
FOR APPOINTMENTS, PLEASE CALL MOBILE NO: 07761 469676
Christmas in Lyme
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The best place to celebrate the festive season!
Take the plunge this Christmas Help make this year’s tree
festival the biggest yet!
GET Christmas Day off to a refreshing start as one of the most popular festive events returns on December 25. The Christmas Day Swim in Charmouth has been running for 45 years, raising funds for the RNLI. This year’s event is, once again, expected to draw hundreds of spectators, as well as those brave enough to take a dip. Fancy dress is not compulsory but vicars, dinosaurs, and crusaders are expected to turn up for a splash in the sea at 11am. The event is organised by the Lyme Regis and Charmouth RNLI Guild and regularly raises in the region of £2,000 for the life-saving charity. Charmouth’s Royal Oak pub is supporting the swim as usual, and will be providing mulled wine for the courageous participants. A spokesman for the organisers said: “If the weather co-operates we are hoping for the usual big turn out of those who just want to enjoy the spectacle and, of course, those
brave enough to dip more than a toe in the chilly surf.” Members of the volunteer crew of the Lyme Regis RNLI lifeboat will be keeping a watchful eye out during the event which will be subject to a risk assessment of conditions during the morning. You can also blow away the cobwebs with a quick dip on New Year’s Day as the Rotary Club of Lyme Regis once again hosts its popular Lyme Lunge. A fancy dress dip in the balmy waters of Lyme Bay is just the thing to lift your spirits the morning after, and this year will raise funds for the Dorset County Hospital Cancer Charity Appeal and other Rotary charities. The event regularly attracts thousands of spectators, with an estimated 600 participants in January 2018. For full details and sponsorship forms, search ‘Rotary Club of Lyme Regis’ on Facebook or ask any local Rotarian.
LOCAL organisations and charities are being asked to make this year’s Lyme Regis Christmas Tree Festival the biggest and best yet. Having attracted more than 500 visitors last year, this year’s festival will follow a similar format and will be held over the weekend of Friday, December 21 to Sunday 23 in Lyme regis Baptist Church Hall. Local organisations and charities are being asked to take part by decorating a tree for a charge of £15. Decorations can reflect the work of the organisation and leaflets, information and collection tins can be left under each tree to help promote and raise funds for each cause. Organiser Alan Vian said: “This is now becoming a special Christmas event in Lyme with over 500 people visiting it. This year we also hope to offer coffee during opening hours. “We are hoping that even more organisations will take part this year especially as it will be open over the weekend when it will attract the most visitors. Do help us to make this special event a success.” Trees and electricity sockets (two sets of lights per tree) will be provided and organisa-
tions can decorate their tree between 4.30 and 6.30pm on Thursday, December 20, and remove it before 11am on Monday, December 24 (organisers will remove it if you are unable to). Stewards will man the festival at all times and collection tins will be removed for sakekeeping overnight. The festival will be open to the public from 11am t0 5pm on the Friday and Saturday, and from 12noon to 8.30pm on the Sunday. Entry is free. Anyone interested in booking a tree should contact organisers Alan and Lynne Vian by December 14 by calling 01297 442220 or email alan@alanvian.co.uk
Children’s choir to join Lyme Bay Chorale for Christmas concert
S AS IS TM ON T M IS HN’ HR TC DO IG C SWI DAY 1ST R E B TS ATU BER M TH IGH S ECEM5.15P L D
SINGERS aged five to 82 are busy rehearsing for Lyme Bay Chorale’s Christmas Concert, which will take place at St Michael’s Parish Church in Lyme Regis on Sunday, December 9. For the first time, St Michael’s Children’s Choir – which recently impressed a packed church at the Remembrance Sunday service – will join the adult chorale for several parts of the concert, with some children singing solos. Frankie Paveley, Ezra and Joel Jeffries and Amber Wilcox will be the pages in an arrangement of ‘Good King Wenceslas’ by Paul Halley, while chorale member Joss Kent will play the king. The children will also sing in ‘Christus Natus Est’ by Cecilia McDowall and ‘Ding Dong Merrily On High’, arranged by Mack Wilberg. Lyme Bay Chorale will perform the Poulenc ‘Gloria’ (1959), with soprano solo by well-known local singer Chloe Stratta, and two other pieces by Paul Halley – ‘Infinite Light’ a n d ‘Watt’s Cradle Hymn’.
There will also be several audience carols. St Michael’s Children’s Choir is made up of children from primary schools in the area and currently has about 14 members, the youngest of whom is just five years old. It is run by Alex Davies – director of music at St Michael’s Church and of Lyme Bay Chorale – and his wife Alison, who teaches music. The choir’s last performance at the church was during the Remembrance Sunday service, when they gave a moving performance of ‘We Will Remember’ by Helen and Mark Johnson. “We’re thrilled that we can involve the junior choir in this concert,” said Alex. “They’ve been working very hard at rehearsals and Ali and I are confident that they will bring something very special to the performance – just as they did to the Remembrance Day service.” Alex will play the organ in the concert, starting at 4pm, and Andrew Millington – formerly director of music at Exeter Cathedral – will conduct. Tickets are £15 on the door or £13 in advance from Lyme Regis Tourist Information Centre, Penny Black Cafe (behind the post office) or choir members. Entry is free for ages 18 and under and tickets include a delicious buffet tea after the concert. For more information about Lyme Bay Chorale, visit the website www.lymebaychorale.co.uk
ST Michael’s Children’s Choir will join Lyme Bay Chorale for their Christmas concert in the parish church
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Christmas in Lyme The best place to celebrate the festive season!
Catch a show at the Marine this Christmas THE Marine Players are having a ‘dickens of a time’ with their rehearsals for ‘A Christmas Carol’, writes David Ruffle. We have been through some hard times, but have great expectations that we will have a wonderful show to present to you all. You could say, and I will, that we are expecting a full house every evening as opposed to a bleak house. What can you expect? Music, singing and a display of enthusiasm by members of the cast who were hand picked at no cost whatsoever. Say what you like about us (or maybe not) but we do work cheaply. Everything is coming along together nicely including the songs which have suddenly become louder and more importantly, in tune! Fred Humphrey is playing Scrooge, as he did in the 2013 production. No element of type-casting he assures me although when I asked for a 50p contribution towards my expenses, I distinctly heard the word ‘humbug’ escape his lips, unless it was my imagination. So come along and see us at the Marine Theatre, it will be magic (not magic like David Copperfield practises but still…).
Opening night is Wednesday, December 5 and performances continues through to Saturday, December 8, 7.30pm start every evening plus a matinee at 2.30pm on the Saturday. Tickets are on sale now and selling like hot mince pies, priced at £12 for adults and £6 for those fortunate enough to be under 18. Merry Christmas! To book, call 01297 442138 or visit www.marinetheatre.com ● LYME Regis Musical Theatre presents Christmas Lyme - an evening of festive fun and entertainment in the warmth of the Marine Theatre. With Santa and his helpers, mince pies and a good dose of musical and festive cheer, what better way to start your Christmas than by joining the fundraising evening with your friends and family? The event will be held over two nights - December 18 and 19, from 7pm to 9pm, and tickets can be bought online at www.seaty.co.uk/lrmtxmas Santa’s grotto will be open before the main event from 4pm to 6pm both days, costing £5 per child, and tickets should be booked for this separately at www.seaty.co.uk/lrmtsanta
FATHER Christmas and his sleigh will be visiting Lyme Regis again this year, on the evenings of Wednesday, December 5 and Thursday 6. Neville Causley, organiser of the Lyme Regis Charity Santa Sleigh, has reported that Father Christmas is booked and looking forward to meeting children on his tour around the streets of Lyme Regis. This is the 17th year Mr Causley and his family have organised the sleigh, raising funds for both local and national organisations. This year the money raised will be shared between several baby and toddler groups, including The Hub baby group, the Baptist Church baby group, Uplyme baby group and the Shining Stars Baby group. If anybody would like to help sponsor the sleigh, please contact Neville Causley on 07427 709 533. Santa and his sleigh will take to the streets between 4pm and 8.30pm along the following routes: Wednesday, December 5: Pound Road, Pound Street, Westhill Road, Hill Rise, Clappen-
tail Lane, Portland Court, Clappentail Park, Somers Road, Somers Field, Sidmouth Road, Blue Waters Drive, Silver Street, Broad Street, Coombe Street, Hill Road, View Road, Woodmead Road, end of Avenue Road, Springhill Gardens, Haye Lane, Haye Close, St Georges Close, Uplyme Road. Thursday, December 6: Uplyme Village Hall at approximately 4pm, Lym Close, Garmans Field, Dragons Hill, bottom of Timber Hill, Pine Ridge, Woodbury Down Way, Overton Close, Fairfield Park, Charmouth Close, Charmouth Road, Anning Road, Kingsway, bottom of Summerhill Road, Henry’s Way, Appleby Way, end of Elizabeth Close, Queen’s Walk, end of Queen’s Court, South Avenue, Colway Lane, North Avenue, Manor Avenue, Bay View Road, Talbot Road, Broad Street, Silver Street, Cobb Road, Woodroffe Meadow. Please note that the sleigh is unable to go into some roads that are not mentioned on the list above, as it is either not safe to stop or there is no way of turning around.
THE Town Mill in Lyme Regis has teamed up with Christmas Trees for Life for the festive season. Christmas Trees for Life is a new, innovative business born out of a love of having a real tree at Christmas and the sadness of it dying. The business rents out pot-grown trees so that the tree carries on living and can be used year after year, growing with your family. The Town Mill will be taking bookings to adopt a tree in advance of Christmas. A tree can be booked by filling in a booking form and paying the rental and damage/death deposit. Trees up to 3ft are £30 plus £15 refundable deposit, 3ft-5ft are £40 plus £15 refundable deposit, and 5ft-7ft are £50 plus £15 refundable deposit. Bookings can be made online at www.townmill.org.uk Trees will be available to choose between December 6 and 8 and families that have already booked will be able to come along and select which tree they want to adopt. Deliveries will the be made on December 9 and trees will be collected on January 5. The Town Mill recommends choosing a tree on
December 6 to avoid disappointment. Festive events for the whole family Other festive events taking place at the Town Mill this December will include Christmas wreath-making on Saturday 8 between 2.30pm and 4.30pm. For £20, spend a couple of hours at the mill making your own personal wreath and enjoy a glass of mulled wine. On Sunday, December 9, Saturday 15 and Sunday 16, Father Christmas will be visiting the Town Mill and will be welcoming children to his grotto from 11am to 3pm. For £5 your child can visit Father Christmas and receive a gift. Also on December 15, Paintpot Pixie will be face painting for £4 between 11.30am and 3pm. There will also be festive baking sessions to make a gingerbread house and carols in the courtyard from 3pm. Children’s crafts will also be ongoing through the month of December, including a children’s trail. Many of these events, including Santa’s grotto, have limited places so book to avoid disappointment at www.townmill.org.uk
Santa Claus is coming to town!
● ‘THE Little Match Girl’ is a family show for Christmas inspired by Hans Christian Andersen’s traditional tale, and will come to the marine Theatre on Thursday, December 20. Set in London on a snowy Christmas Eve, a little girl encounters the funny and zany characters of the vibrant city streets. This madcap and heartwarming show of visual storytelling, live music, and puppetry is written by T.A. Woodsmith, winner of the Sunday Times Playwriting Award. ● FILM screenings at the Marine Theatre will help you get into the festive mood this Christmas. On Saturday, December 15, the theatre’s the popular cinema double bill that sold out last year will this time including screenings of Raymond Briggs’ ‘The Snowman’ and the 1960s classic ‘A Charlie Brown Christmas’. A complimentary screening for the of ‘It’s A Wonderful Life’ will be held on Saturday, December 22. Theatre director Gabby Rabbitts said: “We’ve had a great year here at the Marine with fantastic support from our community and beyond from the likes of the Gannett Foundations, Lyme Regis Town Council, Ian Gillan, and Ian McKellen. “Our free screening is our gift to the town and others to thank them for their support.” For details of all events at the Marine Theatre, visit marinetheatre.com or cal 01297 442138.
Christmas fayre in aid of Uplyme Village Hall
A CHRISTMAS fayre, coffee morning and duck race will be held in aid of Uplyme Village Hall on Saturday, December 1. The event will be held at the hall from 10am to 12noon, followed by a duck race in the river outside. There will be stalls from local charities, gifts, homemade cakes, hot drinks and festive entertainment from the school choir.
Seasiders host annual auction
LYME Regis Football Club will host its annual Christmas auction on Saturday, December 8. The event will start at 7pm with auctioneer Simon Flux at the helm. Top lots up for grabs will include sports memorabilia and tickets, vouchers for local restaurants and attractions, roast dinner and ploughman’s hampers, gifts and more. Entry is free and all welcome.
Join the Carols Around the Tree
JOIN one of Lyme Regis’ longest running Christmas traditions at the annual Carols Around the Tree event on Saturday, December 22nd. Organised by the Rotary Club of Lyme Regis, the event always attracts a big crowd and this year will raise funds for Julia’s House Hospice. Traditional carols around the town’s Christmas tree in Broad Street will be accompanied by Lyme Regis Town Band from 7pm and hot soup will be served in the interval.
IT IT’S T’S CH CHR CHRI RIIST ISTMA IS TM MA AS L AS LYME YME
Festive fun at the Town Mill
Presen nte ed d by Ly yme e Reg R gis is Music sical The heatrre An evening ng of mus m sicc and a d fe estiv es ve en e tertainm nm m t men witth m w minc nce p pies esss, ssan ntta and and ca arol singin i gi g 18th & 1 18 19th h Deccem e emb er – Doors o open 6 6.3 30pm pm with w ith e enterta ainmen inment fr fo om m 7.00pm .00pm Tick cke ets availa ailable fro om m Serendip e dip Booksh okshop p Bro oad St L Ly yme Re Regis DT7 DT 3Q Q QD Tel: e 012 01297 442594 42594 4 – Seaty.co.uk/LRMT k/LR
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Plastic Free group launches Former police officer new ‘Supporters Scheme’ releases first book A NEW award scheme was introduced by campaign group Plastic Free Lyme Regis at its successful business meeting last week. The well-attended meeting, held at the Driftwood Café at Lyme Regis Baptist Church, saw business owners and residents come together to share their experiences of ‘going green’. Polly Benfield, a member of Turn Lyme Green and the Plastic Free Lyme Regis initiative, introduced the Supporters Scheme, a new initiative for Lyme Regis which recognises “a commitment to sustainability and the careful management of resources and utilities, including reducing the use of singleuse plastics, and an involvement in Plastic Free Lyme Regis and Turn Lyme Green”. The Supporters Scheme acknowledges that businesses of any type can be involved in caring for our environment, not just food outlets which have been using single-use plastics. All can find ways to reduce plastic use, become more energy efficient, improve recycling and make choices
that improve their environmental footprint. Polly commented: “We hope to recruit a wide range of businesses so that residents and visitors can see how important that campaign is to us all.” A poster and a wooden plaque are available to supporters to publicise their support for the scheme. Anyone interested in joining should email info@plasticfreelymeregis.uk or find out more information from the website www.plasticefreelyme.uk. Sharing his experiences at the meeting, Toby Guiducci, owner of the Albany guest house, told the group that they had included their own handmade, in-house toiletries for guests, such as shampoo and bath gel, which had proved very popular. A shared fridge for visitors offered water for bottle refills and fresh milk for teas and coffees to put into small glass milk bottles to take to their rooms. No plastic pots of UHT milk were available. Marine Theatre manager Sophia Moseley said that the arts venue
used ceramic crockery and glasses wherever possible, had stopped using plastic straws and no beverages were sold in plastic bottles. Sophia told everyone that one of the less elegant jobs that she had been doing earlier in the day was sorting rubbish by hand so that it could be more carefully recycled. Louise Chambers from the Aroma Cafe in Bridge Street spoke about the national ReFill scheme, in which businesses offer free tap water top ups for people with their own water bottle. There are currently more than 20 businesses in Lyme Regis signed up for the scheme. Louise also said that Aroma was offering a discount for anyone who brought in their own cup, either to use in the cafe or to takeaway. Caroline Richards from Litter Free Coast and Sea spoke about the organsiation’s current projects, including a ‘Don’t Feed the Locals’ campaign to prevent seagulls from harassing people for food. Other projects included ‘Only Rain Down the Drain’ and a new initiative to tackle littering out of car windows – ‘DON’T BE A TOS53R’. Plastic Free Lyme Regis is a subgroup of eco-group Turn Lyme Green, which promotes sustainable living in Lyme Regis. Set up in 2007, TLG engages the community in environmental issues.
SIMON Herfet, a familiar face in Lyme Regis as the town’s former community police officer, has just released his first book exploring his spirituality. Simon said he is lucky to have lived in Dorset all his life. He joined the Dorset Police Constabulary, as it was then known, in 1978 and worked all around the county as a uniformed police officer. He was the community officer in Lyme Regis for several years during the 1990s and ended his police career in 2008 in Bridport. He still lives in Lyme Regis with his family. Aside from his policing career, Simon has a deep interest to matters concerning spirituality, which has taken him twice to India to meet an Indian Avatar named Sai Baba, and also to a Native American Indian reservation in Taos, New Mexico, where he met a shaman called Standing Deer. After more than 30 years of his
own spiritual practice, including meditation and self-healing work, he felt it was time to write a book, which is something he has wanted to do for a long time. Simon’s first book has taken him two years to write and is titled ‘Awakening to Love’. Published by Balboa Press UK, a subsidiary of Hay House Publishing US, which specialises in the mind, body and spirit book genre, the book costs £9.99 and is available on Amazon and a variety of other websites. It is a part channeled book, written as a series of questions with channeled answers about the spiritual aspect to consciousness, universal love and awareness and the current global shift towards the greater awareness of such in humanity. Whenever asked about his own spiritual belief or religion, the author would simply state that he believes in “the golden thread which runs through all of the main religions in the world”.
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cards, wrapping attraction ellery, stationery,as well as its wide more, HAVING become a popular five years, paper and homeware. in Sidmouth over the past Lyme Regis range of in providing Dotty Home opened its Dotty Home believes stylish, uncustomer service and branch in 2017, offering home and outstanding every detail to ensure usual and affordable takes care of experience is comlifestyle products. style, your shopping With a Scandinavian-chic of jew- pletely hassle free, and more importantly, enjoyable. Dotty Home offers a selection The shop’s collections change with the seasons, keeping the products fresh, topical and ever-evolving. The Lyme Regis branch, tucked away in the Pitt House car park off Broad Street, has been transformed for the festive period and is the place to go for all your Christmas decorations and gifts. Dotty Home is open from 10am to 5pm Monday to Saturday, and from 11am to 4pm on Sundays. For more information, visit the website www.dottyhome.com, where you browse and buy the collections online.
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IT’S easy to overdo it during the festive ing fuzzy-headed, season, but if you’re full-up feelcobwebs with a quick and fatigued, blow away the Christmas dip in the sea. You can wash away that Day splash in the water ‘morning after’ feeling with a Christmas at Charmouth, or a to the sea in Lyme New Year’s Day dash Regis – and don’t forget your fancy dress! One of the area’s most Day Swim in Charmouth,popular festive events, the Christmas is once again expected dreds of spectators, to draw hunas well as those brave enough to take a dip. Fancy dress is not compulsory but vicars, saders are expected to turn up for a splash dinosaurs, and cruin the sea at 11am. The event is planned Guild and regularly by the Lyme Regis and Charmouth RNLI raises in the region of £2,000 saving charity. for the lifeCharmouth’s Royal Oak will be providing mulled pub is again supporting the swim and wine for the courageous participants. A spokesman for the ates we are hoping organisers said: “If the weather co-operfor the usual big turn want to enjoy the out of those who spectacle and, of just course, to dip more than a toe in the chilly surf.” those brave enough Members of the volunteer crew of the Lyme will be keeping a Regis RNLI lifeboat watchful eye out during the event which be subject to a risk assessment of conditions will ing. during the mornThe iconic Lyme Lunge New Year’s Day, and will then return to Lyme Regis beach Lyme Bay is just the a fancy dress dip in the balmy waters on thing to lift your spirits of the morning after. This year, the Rotary Club of Lyme Regis Dorset County Hospital will Cancer Charity Appealbe supporting the charities. and other Rotary As those of you who have taken part in it’s always a great previous years will occasion with thousands know porting a growing of spectators supnumber participants, 2018. estimated over 600 in Swimmers will parade their costumes on quick dash to the the beach before sea at 1pm sharp. a For full details and sponsorship forms, Lyme Regis’ on Facebook search ‘Rotary Club of or ask any local Rotarian.
New Year
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6
New winter edition of the Lyme Life Magazine now available to pick up from various outlets in and around Lyme Regis Or read it online at www.lyme-online.co.uk
Friday, November 30 2018 13
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Students join national Mandarin programme THE Woodroffe School in Lyme Regis is participating in the Department for Education’s national Mandarin Excellence Programme. Now in its third year, the intensive language programme is delivered by the UCL Institute of Education in partnership with the British Council. It will see at least 5,000 school pupils in England on track to fluency in Mandarin Chinese by 2020. Pupils from The Woodroffe School will start the programme joining pupils from 63 other English schools. They will spend an average of eight hours studying Mandarin every week to help them reach a high level of language ability. Progress test results from the schools which have just completed the first and second years of the programme show the pupils’ skills are developing at pace. Dr Richard Steward said: “This is a wonderful opportunity for our students and we are fortunate to have Ms Choy, our specialist Mandarin teacher. “The course is challenging and rewarding and provides a solid foundation in Chinese grammar and sentence structures. In addition, Chinese culture will also be introduced to promote awareness in cultural differences.” In being the most widely spoken language in the world, it is seen that more young people in the UK need to master Mandarin if the country is to remain competitive in the future. A recent Confederation of British Industry survey revealed the growing importance of the language for businesses, while this summer saw Chinese overtake German as the third most widely studied modern foreign language at Alevel. School Standards Minister Nick Gibb said: “This government programme, launched in 2016, plays an important role in helping pupils to become fluent in Mandarin Chinese, the most spoken language in the world. “I have seen for myself the inspiring enthusiasm
and energy that both pupils and teachers are committing to this programme, with pupils that have already taken part achieving very high levels of spoken and written Mandarin. “I would like to congratulate the schools that have been selected this year and the pupils involved, who will have a significant advantage when competing for jobs with their peers from around the world.” In addition to improving students’ fluency in the language, the UCL Institute of Education aims to have trained at least 100 new qualified Chinese teachers in collaboration with other providers by the end of the programme. The Confucius Institute, based at the UCL Institute of Education, already has a network of 45 Confucius Classrooms across England and supports schools in starting and developing the teaching and learning of Mandarin Chinese and the study of China across other areas of the curriculum. Katharine Carruthers, director of the UCL Institute Of Education Confucius Institute, said: “Learners have made exceptional progress through the Mandarin Excellence Programme in the last two years. This year we are delighted to welcome The Woodroffe School to the programme to give their young learners the chance to learn Chinese to such an advanced level.” Mark Herbert, head of schools programmes at the British Council added: “Mandarin’s importance is going to increase as the UK repositions itself on the world stage. More than that, learning Mandarin is a fascinating process which connects you to Chinese culture and over a billion Chinese speakers worldwide.” Schools in England can find out more about the programme and register their interest: https://ciforschools.wordpress.com/mandarinexcellence-programme/
YEAR 7 students at The Woodroffe School will be among those to benefit from this exciting enrichment course
Top prizes up for grabs in PTA raffle
TOP prizes are up for grabs in a raffle organised by The Woodroffe School’s Parents and Teachers Association (PTA). A cash prize of £100, vouchers for local restaurants including £100 to spend at the Harbour Inn, Marine Theatre tickets and hampers are among the prizes.
Tickets are available to buy for just £1 each from Fortnam, Smith & Banwell and Serendip in Broad Street, Lyme Regis, until December 6. The draw will take place on Friday, December 7 at the PTA’s Festive Evening for parents of pupils, to be held at the school between 6pm and 8.30pm.
Art students visit Amsterdam
Storage Containers available to rent 24-hour CCTV THE Woodroffe School’s art department recently took a group of sixth form students to Amsterdam to visit several exhibitions at art galleries, including the Rijksmuseum, the Van Gogh Museum, the Eye, the Rembrandt Museum and Moco. Spending time in Amsterdam also involved exploring other aspects of Dutch culture, including the food, landscape and nightlife with a canal cruise on the first night to take in all the architecture and landmarks. Head of art Richard Vine said: “With sunny weather throughout our time there we were able to walk to and from many of the venues
and see as much of the city in the time we had there. “We walked past landmarks like the 16th century 'Skinny Bridge' and the Buddhist temple, as well as some of the more exotic sites in the city as we made our way from venue to venue. “We also visited the Anne Frank House where we took part in their educational programme and learned about the historical background of the Frank family and their time in Holland before we moved through the house and secret annex. “Much of what the students experienced has already started to filter into their work.”
Secure and secluded site Village location Visit: www.kilmingtonselfstorage.co.uk
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14 Friday, November 30 2018
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MUSIC | THEATRE | WHAT’S ON | COMPETITIONS
‘Britain's Got Talent’ star performs in Lyme
NOEL James, the semi-finalist of ITV series ‘Britain’s Got Talent’, headlines Lyme Regis Comedy Club this December. Noel has a long career of performing stand-up, with shows at the Edinburgh Fringe dating back as far as 2001, and he is well known on the comedy circuit. Known for his slightly absurdist take on comedy, The Independent said that he “stands out like a droll giant in a comedy land of trite dwarfs”. He made a few TV appearances back in the 1990s, on Channel 4’s ‘Packing Them’ in and the BBC’s ‘The Stand Up Show’. Also on the bill at this month’s comedy club is a favourite of Stuart Lee, who said “Susan Murray’s baffled everywoman persona cloaks a dry, intelligent wit.” Riordhan DJ will also perform, with resident compere Tom Glover hosting. The event will be held at the Marine Theatre on Saturday, December 15, with doors opening at 7pm for an 8pm start. Tickets cost £8 in advance or £10 on the door, with a 10 per cent discount for Theatre Friends. To book, call 01297 442138 or visit www.marinetheatre.com. Ages 16 and over only.
Legendary guitarists to play at Marine
AWARD-winning jazz guitarist Martin Taylor MBE teams up with acoustic and slide guitar virtuoso Martin Simpson for a concert at the Marine Theatre in Lyme Regis this December. Martin Taylor was name-checked on BBC Radio 2’s Breakfast Show as being considered the best guitarist by Jeff Beck – leading to a live session on the show the next morning. He spends much of the year travelling the world, playing in concert halls in Europe, North America, Japan, Asia, and Australasia. He has also collaborated with musicians from many different musical genre including, Stephane Grappelli, Chet Atkins, Eric Clapton, Bill Wyman, George Harrison, Dionne Warwick, Bryn Terfel and Jamie Cullum. In 2002, he was appointed MBE for services to jazz music. There is no doubt that after 35 years as a professional musician Martin Simpson is, right now, better than ever. Widely acknowledged as one of the finest acoustic and slide guitar players in the world, his interpretations of traditional songs are masterpieces of storytelling. Martin has been nominated an astounding 23 times in the 11 years of the BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards – more than any other performer – with nine consecutive years as nominee for Musician of The Year, which he has won twice. The pair will share the stage throughout their performance at the Marine Theatre tomorrow (Saturday, December 1) – adding to each other’s songs and instrumental pieces, taking them to new areas of creative inspiration. Doors will open at 6pm for a 7pm start. Tickets cost £12 in advance or £14.50 on the door, with 10 per cent off for Theatre Friends. Call 01297 442138 or visit www.marinetheatre.com to book.
LYME RE REGIS, GISS, PUT YO YOUURR
Join us for food, craft beer and cocktails. Music kicks offf around 8.30pm
Marine Parade, Lyme Regi g s, Dorset, DT7 3JH Follow us on social media @swimlyme | 01297 442668 | info@weswim.co.uk
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Friday, November 30 2018 15
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MUSIC | THEATRE | WHAT’S ON | COMPETITIONS
Oh, what a night!
What’s on...
Friday, November 30
Theatre: ‘Intronauts’ Marine Theatre, 6.30pm A performance with puppetry and integrated animated projection by the Green Ginger Company. Tickets £12 for adults or £10 for under 25s in advance, £14 for adults or £11 for under 25s on the door – call 01297 442138 or visit www.marinetheatre.com. Doors open 6.30pm for 7.30pm start. Cancer Research UK Christmas Bingo Woodmead Halls, 8pm Bingo with Christmas-theme prizes. Eyes down 8pm, all proceeds to Cancer Research UK.
BACK by overwhelming public demand, The New Jersey Boys’ hit show, which continues to play to sell-out audiences and standing ovations throughout the UK, comes to Axminster Guildhall. The choreographed show, featuring the amazing falsetto voice of Einar Vestman and the humour of all round entertainer Gary Gould, guarantees an evening of fast moving entertainment with superb harmonies, stunning solo spots and light comedy.
As well as all the hits from the Four Seasons, the packed two-set programme includes tributes to Showaddywaddy and other musical legends, such as Elton John, Freddie Mercury and Tina Turner. This unmissable show will be held at Axminster Guildhall on Friday, December 7 and early booking is recommended. Tickets cost £18.70 and can be bought online at www.ents24.com/axminster-events/axminster-guildhall
This month at the Marine Catch up with Lyme’s Little Theatre by the Sea
DESPITE the fact it was my birthday, I gave up waiting for Audi to deliver my gift this month so have bought my own A3. It’s given me a meteoric rise in the ‘cool mum’ stakes; I know right, you’d think working for the most famous theatre on the Jurassic Coast would win that competition hands down but if my son’s school list of ‘interesting parents to come in and inspire the children’ is anything to go by, that slot is reserved for the marines and emergency services. It may be a different story when the summer is here and the soft top is down, I was going for the Victoria Beckham look but John Puckey in marketing says Audrey Hepburn would suit me better. Talking of the armed forces, did you see the ‘Pages of the Sea’ artwork on the sandy beach? What a privilege to be chosen as one of the locations and, talking of privileges, what about our Sir Ian McKellen show next July? We are one of just 80 venues that were chosen and when the news broke we saw the most furious activity as the tickets literally flew out of the window. Luckily for our Theatre Friends they received advance warning from us so they got first dibs – one of the many advantages of being a Friend if you’re wondering #justsayin Did any of you come along in November to see a show? I enjoyed the performance of ‘Withering Looks’ that had everyone in fits of laughter. Viv from the Tourist Information Centre came along with me. Then there are the sound checks I get to enjoy when I’m beavering away in the office, there was Dat Brass, Gigspanner Big Band and the Simmertones and I’m really looking forward to listening to the Streisand performer on February 16 and Fleetwood Bac on February 28.
I put on a performance of my own at a recent town council meeting; the public are given three minutes to say something. We wanted to paint ‘Marine Theatre’ above the archway where it used to say ‘Drill Hall’. If you look carefully you can still just about make out that name. Whilst we won’t be painting our name there, they have said we can have some nice ‘finger’ signs directing people. Another big announcement we have is our wedding licence has come through so now people can not only get hitched here but stay put and enjoy the rest of their day in the theatre. We already have two bookings which is very exciting! We are always looking ahead at the Marine and you’re going to love 2019. We have a great idea for hump days; Wilde Wednesdays is our regular Oscar Wilde slot and the first film is ‘A Woman of No Importance’ on January 23. We’re also screening ‘Peterloo’ on January 25. Our January to March 2019 brochure will be out mid-December, the perfect Boxing Day read! By the time I write my next column all the seasonal excitement will be over, Julie Sheppard’s Jazz party (the TIC ladies are going so plenty of prosecco will be consumed), the Marine Players’ ‘A Christmas Carol’, our programme launch party and the firm’s Christmas ‘do’ (more prosecco) will be a distant memory, although I have a hunch there may be some interesting stories to tell, not that I’m one to gossip…
Sophia Moseley,
Theatre Manager
Saturday, December 1
Christmas Fayre, Coffee Morning & Duck Race Uplyme Village Hall, 10am A coffee morning and Christmas fayre to include stalls, tombola, raffle and homemade cakes, followed by a Christmas Quacker duck race, all in aid of Uplyme Village Hall. Some stalls still available for £5 – call Becky on 07590 495 909 to book. Lyme Regis Christmas Lights Switch-On Broad Street, from 3pm onwards Lantern making workshop at 3pm in Lyme Regis Baptist Church followed by lantern competition judging at 4.30pm and lantern parade at 5.15pm with Lyme Regis Majorettes and Father Christmas, during which the Christmas lights will be switched on. The mayor will then switch on the big Christmas tree at 5.30pm. Music: Martin Taylor & Martin Simpson Marine Theatre, 6pm These legendary guitarists share the stage – adding to each other’s songs and instrumental pieces. Tickets £12 in advance or £14.50 on the door - call 01297 442138 or visit www.marinetheatre.com. Doors open 6pm for 7pm start. Live Music Night @ The Nag’s Head Nag’s Head, 9pm Regular live music nights at The Nag’s Head, this week with rock/pop five piece Sky Lizard.
Sunday, December 2
Sequence Dancing Woodmead Halls, 8pm Lyme Regis Sequence Dancing Club meets every Sunday at 7.45pm for an 8pm start. The friendly, welcoming group enjoys popular sequence dances and visitors are welcome.
Monday, December 3
Football Club Cash Bingo Lyme Regis Football Club, 7.30pm Cash bingo in aid of Lyme Regis Football Club, held on the first Monday of every month. Eyes down 7.30pm, book of six for 10 games costs £4.20.
Tuesday, December 4
Boat Launch Lyme Regis harbour, 1.30pm Students at Lyme Regis’ world-renowned Boat Building Academy will mark the end of their 40-week course with a boat launch. All welcome to join the celebrations.
Wednesday, December 5
Lyme Regis Charity Santa Sleigh Various streets, from 4pm Father Christmas will be touring the streets of Lyme Regis on his sleigh. See page 11 for full details of route and listen out for the music! Uplyme & Lyme Regis Horticultural Society Social & Christmas Supper, Uplyme Village Hall, 7.30pm Plant sweet peas to take home, swap surplus seeds and join in a light-hearted quiz, view the society’s vents for 2019 and bring along a dish for the bring and share supper.
Wednesday, December 5 Saturday, December 8
‘A Christmas Carol’ Marine Theatre, 6.30pm nightly A talented cast of all ages from the Marine Players present this classic tale with parties, carols, dancing and happiness. Tickets £12 for adults and £6 for children call 01297 442138 or visit www.marinetheatre.com. Doors open 6.30pm for 7.30pm start. Matinee on December 8 opening at 1.30pm for 2.30pm start.
Thursday, December 6
Lyme Regis Charity Santa Sleigh Various streets, from 4pm Father Christmas will be touring the streets of Lyme
Send your diary dates to francesca@lyme-online.co.uk www.lyme-online.co.uk/events
Regis on his sleigh. See page 11 for full details of route and listen out for the music! Lyme Regis Community Bingo Woodmead Halls, 8pm Bingo night every Thursday at the Woodmead Halls, raising funds for local organisations which are members of Lyme Regis Community Bingo Association. Pilot Boat Quiz Night Pilot Boat, 8pm Weekly quiz night at the Pilot Boat for teams of two or more with cash prize for the winner plus £100 jackpot prize!
Saturday, December 8 Human Rights Day Coffee Morning Lyme Regis Baptist Church, 10.30am A coffee morning and cake stall to mark Human Rights Day, raising funds for Amnesty International, plus an opportunity to send Christmas greetings cards to victims. Christmas Auction Lyme Regis Football Club, 7pm Sports memorabilia and tickets, vouchers for local restaurant and attractions, hampers, gifts and more up for grabs in this annual festive auction. Free entry, all welcome. Live Music Night @ The Nag’s Head Nag’s Head, 9pm Regular live music nights at The Nag’s Head, this week with rock/pop four piece Silver Bullet.
Sunday, December 9 Lyme Bay Chorale Christmas Concert St Michael’s Parish Church, 4pm Concert of festive-themed classical music and carols, with special performances by St Michael’s Children’s Choir. Tickets £13 in advance, £15 on the door of free for under 18s, including a buffet tea - available from Penny Black Cafe or call 01297 442138. Sequence Dancing Woodmead Halls, 8pm Lyme Regis Sequence Dancing Club meets every Sunday at 7.45pm for an 8pm start. The friendly, welcoming group enjoys popular sequence dances and visitors are welcome.
Tuesday, December 11
Talk: ‘Roman Devon and the Seaton Down Coin Hoard’ Woodmead Halls, 2.30pm A joint meeting of the Lyme Regis Society and the Dorset Wildlife Trust. Entry costs £ for members or £3 for non-members, including refreshments.
Thursday, December 13 Lyme Regis Community Bingo Woodmead Halls, 8pm Bingo night every Thursday at the Woodmead Halls, raising funds for local organisations which are members of Lyme Regis Community Bingo Association. Pilot Boat Quiz Night Pilot Boat, 8pm Weekly quiz night at the Pilot Boat for teams of two or more with cash prize for the winner plus £100 jackpot prize!
Saturday, December 15 Cinema: ‘The Snowman’ and ‘A Charlie Brown Christmas’ Marine Theatre, 1.30pm Buy your tickets now for the popular children’s Christmas double bill, with seasonal treats and mulled wine available to purchase. Duration: 60 minutes. Tickets £4 for children or £5 for adults in advance, or £5 for children and £6 for adults on the door - call 01297 442138 or visit www.marinetheatre.com. Doors open 1.30pm for 2.30pm start. Lyme Regis Comedy Club Marine Theatre, 7pm Three comics perform at this popular night out, alongside resident compere Tom Glover, from Bridport. Tickets £8 in advance or £10 on the door - call 01297 442138 or visit www.marinetheatre.com. Doors open 7pm for 8pm start. Ages 16 and over only. Black Ven Spoken Word & Acoustic Music Open Mic Night The Galley Café, 7pm Bring your ears and your songs, ballads, poems, story and acoustic music for a warm welcome and friendly reception. Sign up at 7.15pm for a 7.30pm start, £2 entry, homemade cakes, hot drinks and full bar available. Live Music Night @ The Nag’s Head Nag’s Head, 9pm Regular live music nights at The Nag’s Head, this week with 60s, 70s, 80s and 90s covers band Chill.
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16 Friday, November 30 2018
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MUSIC | THEATRE | WHAT’S ON | COMPETITIONS
Superstar Laura steals the show! I
KNOW Dagenham. When I moved to London to run a group of newspapers in the East End, it was where I worked. From my high-rise office I looked out over row upon row of neat houses built for the workers at Ford’s nearby Dagenham factory where, at one time, 40,000 people were employed.
Whilst it wasn’t the most picturesque of outlooks, I soon learned that the occupants of those houses with the fake stone claddings were the salt of the earth. Fiercely proud of their East End heritage, family orientated and with a wicked sense of humour. Soon after becoming the boss of the Dagenham Post, and a host of other East End titles, I took the chance to flick back through the file copies from 1968 when a story of national importance broke on the journalists’ patch, every local reporter’s dream. By the time I arrived in Dagenham, an episode in the town’s history that caught the nation’s imagination had passed into the history books, the stuff of folklore, and its participants treated as local legends. That episode of course was the 1968 sewingmachinists’ strike at the Ford factory in Dagenham, prompting similar action at Ford’s Hailwood body and assembly plant in Liverpool, which was influential in the passing of the Equal Pay Act of 1970, inspiring a new generation of politically active women. This extraordinary dispute, which threatened Harold Wilson’s government and changed the face of industrial relations, was made into a film in 2010, starring Sally Hawkins as the leader of the strike Rita O’Grady (a fictional character), and premiered in the West End four years later but was not a box office success. It was, however, a huge success when performed by Axminster Musical Theatre at the Guildhall, a typically brave selection of show for AMT who have a reputation for staging the more challenging productions, enhanced in recent times with rave reviews for block-busters such as ‘Jesus Chris Superstar’ and ‘The Full Monty’. Made In Dagenham will sit comfortably alongside all previous production successes and will be particularly remembered for outstanding performances from the principal cast members, backed by some very lively dance routines and rousing chorus work. This was not a show for the easily offended, however. The language was fruity to say the least but what is the point of telling such an inspiring human story if the original script is not to be adhered to? This was a snapshot of life in an area of London where they don’t stand on ceremony. The lead role of Rita O’Grady, the young mother acting as the spokesperson for a group of female workers at Ford's Dagenham plant, who went on strike to fight the inequality of women’s pay, was entrusted to Laura Addy, a BA(Hons) graduate in drama and performance, who admitted in the programme notes that taking the part of Rita was “on her bucket list”. When the American boss flies in to lay off 5,000 men, including Rita’s husband, her marriage and friendships come under great pressure. With the women’s solidarity starting to crack, Rita gives a rousing speech at the TUC conference, finally winning union support and the eventual passing in parliament of the Equal Pay Act, catapulting government minister Barbara Castle to heroine status for getting it on the statute book. This was a huge part with Laura having to be on stage for the vast majority of the production.
THEATRE REVIEW by Philip Evans
MADE IN DAGENHAM Axminster Musical Theatre Axminster Guildhall
She succeeded in portraying the dilemma of balancing her home life and commitment to husband and friends, and the great injustice dealt to working women in post-war Britain. It was an utterly believable portrayal by a young performer who clearly felt passionately about the cause. Her delivery of the TUC speech was aweinspiring. I’ve covered dozens of amateur shows in a long career of writing theatre reviews but I can honestly say this was among the very best I have witnessed, equalling that of Kelly Apps’ portrayal of Eva Peron at Lyme Regis, which I never thought possible. I have no idea whether Laura, herself a young mother, harbours any ambitions of a career in professional theatre but this performance was of that calibre. Great acting, superb voice. One of the musical highlights for me was her duo with husband Eddie, ‘Nearly Had It All’, which saw the couple putting their differences behind them before Rita made her triumphant speech at the TUC conference before returning to family life. The role of Eddie, a typical East End geezer who rather took his wife for granted, even missing their wedding anniversary, was played by Ben Malone who seems to grow in confidence with every show in which he appears. He describes taking the role in the programme notes as “an amazing experience”. His was an amazing performance. Ben is studying acting at Chichester University so I have no doubt we will be seeing much more of him in the future. There were a number of other stellar performances, not least that of Caroline Markham playing the part of Beryl, one of my favourite local stage performers, a natural comedian. This is how she described Beryl, one of the striking sewing-machinists – “brash, loud, determined, loyal to her friends, strong opinionated, rough around the edges, outspoken and lover of a good laugh”. I was tempted to say “type-cast” but that would be ungallant to the extreme. But even Caroline admitted they were not “holy dissimilar”. She reminded me so much of the girl type-setters I used to employ in Dagenham. They teased me mercifully about my West Country accent and made be blush on many occasions. Performances of note also came from the delightful David Adams, who took the role of Prime Minister Harold Wilson, and Tracey Wakeling, as Government Minister Barbara Castle, neither of whom let their northern accents deflect them from hugely realistic impersonations of two of the leading politicians of our age. David was hilarious in ‘Always A Problem’, performed with his entourage of aides, and Tracey demonstrated her voice is as forceful as ever with her rendition of ‘Ideal World’, as well as being the consummate character actress. Sarah Causley gave a sympathetic portrayal of shop steward Sandra Beaumont who succumbed to cancer as the dispute gathered momentum and Tony Glover was imposing as the much puton union convener. Director Jack Price, musical director Ian Crew and choreographer Rachel Worsley can feel well satisfied that their charges rose to the occasion yet again for another memorable show that delighted the Axminster audiences.
Full cast: Laura Addy (Rita O’Grady); Caroline Markham (Beryl); Sarah Causley (Connie Riley), Robin Brakstad (Sarah Beaumont); Jodie Glover (Clare); Josie Cable (Cas); Anette Wraxall (Jo); Susie Gambie (Rachel); Ben Malone (Eddie O’Grady); Matt Lockett (Sid); Joseph Binmore (Bill); Steve Scorey (Stan); Harvey Causley (Barry); Tony Glover (Monty); Tucker ScottStevens (Mr Hopkins); Mark Worsley (Mr Tooley); Roly Kelly (Ron Macer); Tim Leat (Gregory Hubble); David Adams (Harold Wilson); Tracey Wakeling (Barbara Castle); Civil Servants - Dan Wilde, Scott Robson, Luke Cole, Harvey Causley; Emily Smith (Lisa Hopkins); Zack Gambie and Levi Coleman (Graham O’Grady); Matilda Leat and Emily Newton (Sharon O’Grady); Brian Cursley (Mr Buckton); Tim Leat (Chubby Chuff); Barry Marshall (Ford Social Club MC); Adam Chudley (singer); Barry Marshall (reporter). Ensemble: Val Cullimore, Susie Gambie, Jasmine Hussey, Vanessa Loader, Courteney Potter, Louise Pottinger, Louise Quincey, Tina Woodhall, Anette Wraxall, Barry Marshall, Steve Scorey. Band: Ian Crew (Musical Director), Jenny Campbell, Shirley Screech, Josh Westrip, Robert Isles, Dave Jones, Glyn Rattenbury,
Sam Fellon, Stephanie Dommett. Production: Jack Price (director); Ian Cew (musical director), Rachel Worsley (choreographer); Brian Cursley (stage director); Adam Chudley, assisted by Dennis Freeth, Roly Kelly, Kris Brakstad and Lorraine Knowles (stage manager and crew); Stuart Courtman and Sue Close (front of house); Roly Kelly (set design and construction); Ian Whilden (lighting); Dave Tulloch (sound); Nick Cole (properties); Sue Kelly and Hilary Smith (wardrobe mistresses); Tim and Sara Leat (chaperones); Jasmine Hussey (makeup); Stephanie Dommett (rehearsal pianist); Joseph Binmore (rehearsal pianist stand-in); Pam Hunter (prompt at rehearsals); Rose Harvey, Sue Close, Robin Brakstad, Jasmine Hussey (publicity); Rose Harvey and committee (programme); Scott Robson (production photographer); Helma Belbin (programme advertisements, raffle organisers and ice-cream sales); Archway Bookshop and friends (ticket sales and box office at the Guildhall); Pam Cridge (floral arrangements in the foyer); members and friends of Axminster Musical Theatre (stewards, programme sellers and raffle sellers).
Friday, November 30 2018 17
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WE WILL REMEMBER THEM IN our regular series commemorating the 100th anniversaries of the deaths of all men and women from Lyme Regis and the surrounding area who died in the First World War, this week we remember Mildred Isobel Reid, from Charmouth, the only woman listed on a war memorial in the area. With thanks to Vernon Rattenbury from the Royal British Legion for the research.
MILDRED ISOBEL REID Nurse, Voluntary Aid Detachment Born in 1887 in Kensington and died December 10 1918 in Hampstead
A SPINSTER of Charmouth, she died at 10 Rosslyn Hill, Hampstead, London. Her younger brother Captain John Reid was killed in action in 1916. Daughter of John Maitland Reid and Isabel Reid, of Cranford, Charmouth, Dorset, she is commemorated on the Charmouth war memorial.
Carnival funding available for local good causes FOLLOWING another successful year of fundraising events, Lyme Regis Regatta and Carnival Committee invites local organisations to apply for grants. Applications, giving details of how the money would be spent, should be sent to the committee’s secretary Alan Vian on alan@alanvian.co.uk before Friday, December 7.
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Every little helps when it comes to tackling plastic ■ I WAS delighted to see that you printed the letter from Sally Holman [November 16] regarding the plastic on the beaches, particularly on Armistice Day. I too, was out there on that morning, horrified by what I saw. Faced by the task of wondering where and how to begin, in a very short period of time I had filled a large bag (obtained from SWIM) with bottles, bottle tops, remnants of fireworks, children’s spades, plastic bags and of course the inevitable nurdles and short pieces of plastic twine. I enjoy cleaning up the beach, always alone, and derive what I can only describe as a strange pleasure from relocating different sizes of plastic from the sand to the hungry refuse bins waiting nearby. A year ago, I would have felt quite uncomfortable doing this. Now I feel uncomfortable if I don’t! Sometimes people stop me and say positive encouraging words. I do understand that for many, bending down repeatedly is uncomfortable, especially for those with mobility or blood pressure issues, but thinking that some form of marine life might have been spared by just 20 minutes of beach clearing makes me feel happier. Plastic pollution really is our problem. It will not go away unless we change our endless consumption of unnecessary goods and leave a much bigger mess for our children and grandchildren to clear. We are all so privileged to live in this beautiful place, on this magical planet. I personally feel a responsibility to give something back, even if its only a few minutes. Please don’t feel overwhelmed, every little helps. Mahatma Gandhi’s wise words echo in my head, ‘Be the change you want to see in the world.’ Jo Smith Oliver Chairman, Turn Lyme Green
Lyme Regis Branch
to all our suppor ters With your help we have again raised £5,000 this year and are well on our way to £160,000 since we began in 2008
Support needed for LRDT’s new community projects ■ THE Hub has come a long way since 2010 when we stood in the pouring rain on the Cobb singing ‘Frere Jacques’ to raise awareness about the roof needing repairing (pictured) and yes with a massive community effort we won £60,000 from the Peoples Lottery. Thanks to Lyme Regis Development Trust (LRDT), The Hub has become a safe and warm environment for B Sharp, the youth club, mother and toddler group, food bank and many many more. However, the cafe and adjoining area is ripe for turning into a lively and buzzing community space. LRDT has been busy applying for grants to create a community cafe, a workshop (run along the lines of the Man Shed organisation but ours is definitely not for men only!) and a community radio station. We have already been gifted just over £7,000 from Section 106 funds toward the shed and have been promised £3,500 from Axminster Power Tools for
equipping the shed with wood turning lathes and equipment for basic wood working projects, and we are very grateful indeed for this support so far. The next step is to apply for the final stages of a long-term application which we have been working on since January and to do this we need the support of the community and evidence of that support. We have already discussed our ideas and have the support with numerous individuals and organisations around town. Everyone we talk to agrees com-
munity cohesion is something that Lyme would really benefit from and this will be the way to do it. So if you would like to support our application please jot down a couple of lines saying that you think these initiates could help our community and send to fundingmanager@lrdt.co.uk Equally, if you would like to be involved in helping us set these initiatives up please do not hesitate to contact us. Dot Wood and Chris Tipping, Lyme Regis Development Trust
NEWS FROM CITIZENS ADVICE IT is almost a year since Universal Credit was introduced in West Dorset and since then a large number of people have contacted the local offices of Citizens Advice to help them sort out difficulties they are having with this new system. Universal Credit replaces six meanstested benefits which people currently qualify for if their income and savings are below a certain level. It was designed to make claiming benefits simpler but has proved highly controversial. One major concern is that many working families entitled to benefits are made worse off as a result of Universal Credit and there have also been criticisms that the applications process is too complicated. As a result Citizens Advice have found that more than a third of the people it helps struggle to provide the evidence needed to complete their claim and this leads to many of them not receiving their first payment on time. In his Budget statement in October, Philip Hammond, the Chancellor of the Exchequer, pledged an additional £1billion over the next five years to support existing benefit claimants to move onto Universal Credit and he also increased the allowances for working families and those with disabilities. Gillian Guy, the chief executive of Citizens Advice, commented that these changes suggest that the government rightly acknowledges that Universal Credit has serious problems that must be fixed. She said: “This funding will help some people who are really struggling to get by, including disabled people. However, there are still fundamental problems with Universal Credit.” Ms Guy believes that, based on what Citizens Advice has found, improvements must be made before millions more people are moved onto the new benefit and added: “We await further details on additional protections announced for those moving over to Universal Credit as we’re concerned some people may be left behind without
enough money to live on.” Philip Alston, a specialist on extreme poverty and human rights for the United Nations, made strong criticisms of Universal Credit at the end of his recent visit to the UK. He said: “Consolidating six different benefits into one makes good sense, in principle. But many aspects of the design and rollout of the programme have suggested that the Department for Work and Pensions is more concerned with making economic savings and sending messages about lifestyles than responding to the multiple needs of those living with a disability, job loss, housing insecurity, illness and the demands of parenting.” He accepted that some surveys suggest certain claimants do have positive experiences with Universal Credit, but said that an increasing body of research makes clear that there are far too many instances in which the system is being implemented in ways that negatively impact many claimants’ mental health, finances and work prospects. Citizens Advice has a session in Lyme Regis every Wednesday from 10am to 3pm at St Michael's Business Centre DT7 3DB, in the centre of the town and at least until December advice sessions are also taking place on Mondays between 10am and 12noon at Lyme Regis Medical Centre in Uplyme Road, DT7 3LS. Anyone is welcome to visit Citizens Advice, even if they do not have an appointment, and the advice provided will always be free, confidential and impartial. In addition to the sessions in Lyme Regis you can visit its offices in South Street, Bridport, DT6 3NY every weekday between 10am and 3pm. You can also contact Citizens Advice by email on advice@bridportcab.org.uk or by telephone on 03442 451291, which will get you through to the Dorset AdviceLine.
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IS Christmas! Photos by Richard Austin
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Music every Friday - and now every Saturday as well - during December 1 BRIDGE STREET, LYME REGIS DT7 3QA 01297 443157 www.thepilotboat.co.uk
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A sight I’d never want to see again THE most haunting of any accident I covered as a press photographer was at the fatal train crash in Berkshire. Seven people died and five seriously injured after a high-speed train hit a car on an unmanned level crossing on Saturday, November 6 2004. All eight carriages of the 5.35pm First Great Western service from Paddington to Plymouth were derailed in the accident near Ufton Nervet, Berkshire. The train, carrying about 300 people, hit the car at around 6.15pm. An off-duty Thames Valley police officer saw the vehicle drive onto the crossing and the barriers come down. I got a call from the Western Morning News picture desk around 9am; they wanted me to head up to the accident site because there were people on the train that would have been from Devon or Cornwall. It was dark when I arrived at the press assembly point, which was a village pub. It stayed open all night as the media numbers grew. We were told we would not be allowed down to the crash site until the morning so the only thing to do was get some sleep in the car. We were bussed down to the crossing to a sight nobody wants to see in their lifetime; an express train concertinaed like a toy train set, the stillness in the air and the lack of bird song made the experience very erie. To think that a single car on the tracks had caused such a catastrophic crash with seven people dead was alarming. To see a small, bashed up car and then to look at the size of the devastation of a train with the engine and eight carriages spread out in front of us was shocking, something I never want to see again.
Record Lyme poppy appeal THE Lyme Regis branch of the Royal British Legion is celebrating a record collection for the Poppy Appeal.
LES Loveridge presents the trophy in memory of his late father, Jack Loveridge, to Jacqui Ward and Kevin Taylor for their outstanding service to the Royal British Legion in the past year
The Lyme branch, one of the most active in Dorset, has raised in excess of £12,000 for the Poppy Appeal, through street collections and proceeds from other fundraising activities. The final total also included a generous donation of £5,000 from the Rotary Club of Lyme Regis, half the proceeds from the Candles On The Cobb event in August which included a giant poppy on Cobb beach. Other events included the Poppy Run and Fun Day and a freefall parachute jump by Legion member Ania Driver to celebrate her 70th birthday and in honour of her late husband. The news that Lyme had raised a record sum for the Poppy Appeal was revealed by branch chairman Ian Marshall at their recent annual meeting. Afterwards he said: “The Lyme Regis Branch of the Royal British Legion wish to extend sincere thanks to all the people of Lyme Regis who this year have raised in excess of £12,000 pounds for the Poppy Appeal. “This total was achieved from generous donations from the Candles on the Cobb event presented by the Rotary Club of Lyme Regis, freefall parachute jump sponsorship raised by Ania Driver and the annual remembrance collections ably organised and run by Jacqui Ward and her team. “A big well done to all the organisers and of course our wonderful townsfolk.” Highlight of the annual meeting was the presentation of the Jack Loveridge Memorial Cup for outstanding service to the Legion in the last year. The trophy, donated in memory of the late Jack Loveridge, a Legion member who served in the Royal Navy during the Second World War, was shared by Jacqui Ward and parade marshall Kevin Taylor. The cup was presented by Mr Loveridge’s son Les, who also served his National Service in the Royal Navy. Officers elected at the meeting were: Philip Evans MBE (president), Ian Marshall (chairman), Pete Ward (vicechairman), Chris James (secretary), Jon Hunt (treasurer), Daniel Buckley (membership secretary), Jacqui Ward (Poppy Appeal organiser), Ania Driver (Branch Community Support), Kevin Taylor (Parade Marshall), Shelley Larcombe and Emma Blackmore (Events).
Friday, November 30 2018 21
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Good causes benefit from car park funds FORMER Lyme Regis residents Bob and Cynch McHardy handed out cheques to their chosen charities last week, after a busy summer opening their field up for car parking. The couple open a field off Haye Lane for additional car parking every year, asking drivers to contribute to an honesty box and donating all the funds to local and national good causes. This year’s beneficiaries included Guide Dogs UK, Great Ormond Street Hospital, Dorset & Somerset Air Ambulance, the Lyme Regis branch of Cancer ReBOB and Cynch McHardy (pictured second from left and fifth from left) with representatives of their chosen charities
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ITEMS FOR SALE / WANTED WANTED: Large, weathered terracotta pots, example 12”-13” height or 12”15” width, for wildflower garden, will collect call/text 07870 603 345. RAILWAY collection - memorabilia, photos, post cards, framed pictures, excellent conditions - call 01297 560934 (during evenings). PINE blanket chest, painted dark brown, height 46cm, width 52cm, length 97cm, sinsible offers around £50 - 07870 603 345. BESTEK food processor with blender, chopper, juicer, 1.5L mixer bowl, used once, still boxed, original cost £45, now £30 - 01297 443118. LADIES Jack Murphy raincoat, beige, worn once, detachable hood, waterproof, sieze 12, as new, £30 - 01297 678665. COAL effected fire, £20 - 01297 678536. WHITE dressing table, free standing mirror and stool, £20 - 01297 678536.
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Seasiders smash the record book with 26 goals scored Lyme Regis 1st 10, Okehampton Argyle 0 Saturday, November 17
PHILIP EVANS
philip@lyme-online.co.uk
THE record books were blown away at Lyme Regis Football Club with all three teams winning with 26 goals scored and none conceded. The Seasiders’ first team returned to winning ways after two tough defeats against Devon & Exeter Premier league leaders with a 10-0 thrashing of Okehampton Argyle. The Reserves progressed to the quarter-final of the Dorset Intermediate Cup with a comfortable 4-0 win over near rivals Pymore and the Rovers banged in 12 without reply away to Crewkerne Rangers A. It was the first team’s first clean sheet in 19 matches and their second highest score in Devon & Exeter football. The Rovers’ 12-0 win was the biggest ever in the club’s third team’s 23 -year
LYME Rovers pictured before their 6-4 defeat by Merriott Wildcats: back row, from left - Niall Davis (joint player-manager), Scott Meyers, Dec Ellis, Finlay Mclean, Rob Thom, Toby Fowler (captain), Ben Bowditch, Callum Taylor. Front, from left - Guy Bryant, Rob Larcombe (joint player manager), Freddie Andrews, Pete Peacock, Ollie Alner, Stefan Taylor, Josh Rawlins. Photo HOWARD LARCOMBE
Striker Dec Ellis returns from injury STRIKER Dec Ellis, after a long lay-off due to injury, returned to action on Saturday when he came on as a substitute in Lyme Rovers’ 6-4 defeat by Merriott Wildcats. Although short of match practice, he did well and first team manager Gerard Hitchcock will be keeping a close eye on his progress in the hope that Ellis can rediscover his scoring form to solve the first
BEN Vine - back on the goal trail history. All credit to Okehampton for fulfilling the fixture and making the long journey to Lyme, after already having had successive long-haul away matches against Seaton and Beer. They have lost a number of players
this season to Willand and Topsham and were forced to field a number of veterans to make up the numbers. It was easy street for the Seasiders throughout the game, but Okehampton did not give up trying and were given a round of applause when they trudged off the pitch at the end of a long afternoon for them. Lyme were 7-0 up at half time with goals from Ben Turner (2), his first after just 90 seconds’ play, Simon Pollard-Jones (2), Ben Vine (2) and Gary Knight. After the break substitute Jake Bearpark and two more from Vine, one a sizzling 20-yarder, completed the rout. For Lyme keeper Will Meech it was a quiet afternoon as he did not have one shot from open play to deal with.
He told Lyme Online Sport: “This was a side we should have beaten. We conceded a couple of goals early on against the run of play and never really got settled. When we did draw level during the
game we were too gung-ho and left ourselves exposed. We were very wasteful with chances and hit the woodwork three times.” Rob Thom was injured in the first half and Scott Myers had to go in goal. The Lyme goals came from Pete Peacock (2), Callum Taylor and Stefan Taylor.
Daly Holmes came on as a substitute in his first outing for the first team and did not look out of place. Lyme Regis Reserves continued their run of good form with a 4-0 victory over Pymore in the second round of the Dorset Intermediate Cup, a trophy the club has won nine times. Leading 2-0 at half-time the Seasiders’ second string completed the scoreline with two more strikes in the second half. Dan Boot (2) got is first goals for the club with Jack Farrant and Shane Featherstone also getting on the scoresheet. Boot and full-back Nicky Land were picked out as Lyme’s star man with Wesley Holmes getting a red card late in the game alongside a Pymore player.
Lyme Rovers moved back into third place of the Perry Street League Division Four with a 12-0 thrashing of struggling Crewkerne Rangers A who have yet to win a game and have a goal difference of -85. It was another day to remember for ace goal-poacher Pete Peacock who scored five with Olli Alner getting his second hat-trick of the season, the other goals coming from Finlay Maclean (2), Scott Meyers and Matt Thomas. Joint manager Rob Larcombe picked out Freddie Andrews as his man-of-the-match for providing six assists with a special mention for Jack Turner at centre-back and Josh Rawlings playing his first game of the season at left back.
team’s lack of power up front. Rovers’ joint manager was disappointed with his side’s performamnce against the Perry Street Division Three strugglers..
golf
Uncompromising Scott wins November stableford MARK Scott was in no mood for compromise as he started his round with a three- point par, ended with a three-point birdie and in between scored very well, including a fourpointer on the 14th as he won Division 1 of the Lyme Regis Golf Club November stableford with 40 points. Phil Webb was also in fine form as he began with five pars and scored on every hole to come second on 39 points. New club president David Lock is also getting back into form as he notched up 38
points to finish third, his highlights being two four- point birdies on each nine. Tony Harley is scoring exceptionally well at the moment and it was no surprise that his two nines of 20 points was more than enough to win Division 2 as he comfortably birdied 14 and parred 15 and 16 to ease home with 40 points. James Turner and Steve Piper had an interesting battle for second place as Turner raced out with 24 points on the front nine only to implode on the back nine, while Piper
started modestly and came in strongly on the back nine with 20 points, but Piper’s 36 points was just one shy of second placed Turner. Division 1 of the ladies turkey trot was a keenly fought affair as both Di Harris and Jean Jolley came in with 32 points, but Harris galloped in on for a back nine 17 points, including three x 3 point holes while Jolley could only muster a canter to come a worthy second. Jane Dixon did enough to finish third on
28 points. The star score of the round belonged to Division 2 winner Sandra Barclay, who started with a competitive but inconsistent front nine before steadying her game to finish with the best score of the day of 37 points.Sarah Kilcoyne is playing some improving golf as her handicap continues to tumble, and this was no exception as she cranked up her back nine to finish on 35 points. Amy Mudford did the reverse, after a promising front nine just fell away to finish 3rd on 31 points.
tables Newtown Colyton Exwick Villa Cronies Clyst Valley Lyme Regis Witheridge Upottery Heavitree United Beer Albion Exmouth Town 2nds Feniton Seaton Town Topsham Town Okehampton Argyle
Devon & Exeter Premier P W D L F A Gd 12 10 2 0 39 6 33 12 9 2 1 58 17 41 12 8 2 2 40 15 23 11 6 4 1 40 11 25 10 6 2 2 29 15 14 11 6 1 4 32 21 11 11 6 0 5 32 26 6 13 5 2 6 24 31 -7 12 4 1 7 16 33 -17 11 3 3 5 21 25 14 11 4 0 7 12 41 -29 11 3 1 7 23 27 -3 13 3 0 10 25 42 -17 14 2 2 10 19 56 -37 12 2 0 10 13 57 -44
Devon & Exeter Division Four 9 8 Elmore 2nds Alphingon 3rds 9 7 Lyme Regis Reserves 9 5 11 5 Hemyock 11 5 Teignmouth 2nds 8 4 Halwill 2nds University of Exeter 5th 9 4 10 3 Feniton 2nds Sampford Peverell 12 2 Winkleigh 8 2 Millwey Rise 10 2 St Martins 10 2 Pinhoe 6 1
0 1 3 2 2 2 1 3 4 2 2 0 0
Perry Street Division One P 7 Thorncombe Waytown Hounds 8 Hawkchurch 7 Misterton Reserves 8 Perry Street Reserves 5 6 Ilminster Town Res Crewkerne Rangers 7 Combe St Nicholas Res 7 Forton Rangers 6 7 Uplyme Netherbury 8
W 6 6 3 3 3 2 2 2 2 1 0
Perry Street Division Two South Petherton Res 9 Charmouth 8 Forton Rangers Res 8 Ilminster Town A 9 Chard United Reserves 8 Dowlish & Donyatt 6 Donyatt United 7 Chard Rangers 8 Crewkerne Rang Res 9 Shepton Beau Res 7 Kingsbury Episcopi 7
1 1 1 4 4 2 4 4 6 4 6 8 5
Pts 32 29 26 22 20 19 18 17 13 12 12 10 69 8 6
39 31 31 28 31 27 23 17 11 16 16 19 5
10 29 15 16 12 19 25 3 34 -3 21 6 19 4 23 -6 28 17 20 -4 21 -5 40 -21 27 -21
24 22 17* 17 17 14 13 12 10 8 8 6 3
D 1 0 3 2 1 2 1 1 0 3 2
L 0 2 1 3 1 2 4 4 4 3 6
Gd 18 23 11 -9 12 3 1 -10 -3 -11 -35
Pts 19 18 12 11 10 8 7 7 6 6 2
7 5 5 5 4 3 3 3 2 2 0
2 1 0 0 0 1 1 0 1 0 0
0 2 3 4 4 2 3 5 6 5 5
30 10 6 -1 -3 3 -5 2 -23 -9 -10
23 16 15 15 12 10 10 9 7 6 2
Perry Street Division Three Winsham United Res 9 7 Merriott Dynamos 8 6 Thorncome Reserves 9 6 Lyme Regis Rovers 9 5 Ilminster Town B 6 4 Farway United2nds 6 4 Chard Rangers Res 9 3 Netherbury Reserves 7 3 Merriott Wildcats 6 2 Crewkerne Rangers A 10 0 Combe A 7 0
1 1 1 1 1 0 1 0 1 0 0
2 1 2 3 1 2 5 4 3 10 7
34 19 16 24 17 7 5 -3 -5 -89 -29
19 16 15 13 12 10 10 9 4 0 -1*
CALLING ALL LOCAL FOOTBALL CLUBS
If you would like your matches to be featured on the LymeOnline website and in our print version, email your reports to Philip Evans at philip@lyme-online.co.uk
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LymeOnline Sport
24 Friday, November 30 2018
November 30 2018
www.lyme-online.co.uk
NOW IN THE DEVON & EXETER PREMIER LEAGUE
Saturday, December 3 Lyme Regis 1sts v Exmouth Town 2nds Kick-off 2.15pm
No game for the first team but Ressies impress
AWARD winners, including Ed Stubbs and Ariana Finn (front centre), Natasha Dower (front second from left), Cameron Moss (front fourth from left), Simon Law (front third from right), and Chris Joyner (front right)
Successful season for Sailing Club LYME Regis Sailing Club commodore Jerry Rook, accompanied by his wife Pauline, welcomed 80 club members to their annual dinner and prizegiving on Saturday night. The event was held at Lyme Regis Golf Club, where guests included dinghy and cruiser sailors, with a large contingent of youth members. MC Rear Commodore Alan Cottis took charge of proceedings with speeches and presentations following the dinner and toasts. The commodore spoke of a suc-
cessful season which saw good turn outs on the water. He thanked all who had made great efforts to support and contribute to their club. Trophies were announced by Rob Walker, sailing secretary for cruising, and Cameron Moss, sailing secretary for racing. Youth members attending received their trophies again, having recently held their own prizegiving evening on Bonfire Night. These included Ariana Finn, Simon Law, Jack Young and Natasha Dower.
Youngest of the winners was Ed Stubbs. who has recently won a place in the SW Optimist race training squad. While most trophies were contested competitively, some were awarded specially by the commodore or sailing secretaries. Awards included the John Lee trophy for making the longest cruise, this year awarded to Chris Joyner, the Alan Pugh for enjoyment of cruising and the Holman Trophy for race management, given to Andy Robinson.
The Clanger went to Fraser Earle and Katie Frost and the Capsize Bucket to Colin Walters and Simon Law, both accompanied by amusing anecdotes. The coveted Sportsman’s Trophy was awarded to Tony Fastnedge for his consistent contributions of technical expertise and seamanship to the club’s major championship events. Presentations of flowers were made by vice commodore Dave Stubbs to Suzanne James, Fern Cottis, Jo Law and Sally Holman.
Reserves test the league leaders PHILIP EVANS
philip@lyme-online.co.uk LYME Regis Reserves pushed highriding Elmore 2nds all the way in a competitive clash at the Davey Fort on Saturday. A 3-1 victory saw Elmore move into top place in the Devon & Exeter Division Four with the Seasiders retaining their third spot despite dropping points. There was little between the two sides in the opening exchanges with Lyme’s best chance falling to Dan Burke who curled the ball wide from the outside of his boot. Callum Larcombe also tested the
visiting keeper early on. In what was clearly going to be a competitive game, Elmore took the lead in the 25th minute with the ball being steered home from close range and four minutes later extended their lead when the ball was forced home from a rebound off the bar. With the Lyme linesman flagging for offside, referee Viv Cooke consulted with the flag man before pointing to the centre circle. Lyme pushed hard to reduce the arrears with Fred Thomson going close with a header from a corner. After the break the Seasiders looked the better side and got back not the game in the 52nd minute with a Dominic Rowe rocket header
from a Daly Holmes’ corner. At the other end keeper Robbie Fowler brought off a brave save to prevent Elmore extending their league and Lyme kept up the pressure with Elmore losing their cool resulting in two players being sent to the sin bin within a minute of each other. The Ressies were unlucky not have drawn level when Jake Bearpark went close and a Daly Holmes’ shot was padded away. The clever Jack Farrant and Lee Cleal added some zip to the attack when they came on a s substitutes. Elmore secured the three points to go top of the league with a well placed shot in the 72nd minute but
Lyme continued to press hard until the final whistle with another Jake Bearpark effort from close range being thwarted. Lyme can feel well pleased with this performance against the championship contenders who were probably a yard or two quicker than the Seasiders. Robbie Fowler, usually an outfield player, had yet another great game between the sticks and skipper Alex Rowe put in a terrific shift covering visually every inch of the pitch. Dominic Rowe, recovering from injury, also looked like he’s not far off full fitness.
FOOTBALL: LYME Regis first team’s much anticipated away fixture with Cronies, one of the most feared teams in the Devon & Exeter Premier division, was called off on Saturday due to the Topsham pitch being waterlogged after heavy overnight rain. This would have been a good test for the Seasiders to see if they can keep pace with the Premier league leaders after their 10-0 victory over bottom club Okehampton Argyle the previous week. Cronies, not quite the force they were last season, are lying in fourth place with 22 points from 11 games, two places and two points ahead of Lyme. Tomorrow (Saturday) Lyme manager Gerard Hitchcock will be looking for three points with the first team at home to Exmouth Town 2nds who are well down the table with only four victories under the belt this season. Lyme Regis Reserves, who put up a great fight against Division Four leaders Elmore 2nds in a competitive encounter last Saturday, should have an easier time tomorrow when they travel to University of Exeter 5th X1. Despite the 3-1 defeat against Elmore, Lyme retain their third place. Lyme Rovers, who featured in a ten-goal thriller against Perry Street League Division Three high-riders Merriott Dynamos (see report on page 23) are on John Fowler Cup duty with a home (Woodroffe) tie against Farway United 2nds (kick-off 2pm). In other local games, Uplyme, who had an excellent 1-1 draw against neighbours Hawkchurch last saturday, are away to Perry Street Reserves. Charmouth are enjoying a good season in Perry Street Division Two, currently sitting in second place. Last week they beat Donyatt United 4-1 in the Jack Venn Cup and tomorrow are on Dorset Junior Cup duty at home to FC Baralo.
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