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Mary visits St Michael’s!
■ CHILDREN from St Michael’s Primary School in Lyme Regis were given an insight into the town’s past last week, when famous fossil hunter ‘Mary Anning’ paid a visit to Key Stage 1 pupils. St Michael’s staff member Lin Paterson played the role of Mary, teaching the children about her life during the 1800s and how she made important scientific discoveries on the Jurassic Coast, including the first full skeleton of an ichthyosaur. The children were also able to pass around that can be found on Lyme Regis and Charmouth beaches.
Beach house to go THREE-STOREY HOUSE TO REPLACE SEAFRONT BUNGALOW A MODERN addition to Lyme Regis’ iconic seafront cottages has won planning approval from the district council, despite concerns over ground stability issues.
West Dorset District Council has given permission for 1920s
FRANCESCA EVANS
francesca@lyme-online.co.uk seafront bungalow Cobb Gate, between The Alcove and Mollie’s ice cream kiosk on Marine Parade, to be demolished and replaced with a three-storey house. The existing house - currently
used as a holiday let - is within the Conservation Area. It sits above ground level with steps leading up to the property from Marine Parade. The proposal would see the entire building demolished and the site excavated to create a new ground floor level with Marine Parade, pro-
viding disabled access. The three-storey house would include double doors leading directly off Marine Parade with an en-suite bedroom, wet room, storage and lift on the ground floor. The first floor would comprise of an open-
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JOSH AND JACOB RAISE £400 FOR LYME LUNGE P AGE 15
Three arrested on assault and burglary charges THREE people were arrested following a breakin at a barber shop in Lyme Regis this week. Police were called to reports of a burglary at Sandyman Chop Shop on the corner of Silver Street and Hill Road at 11.17pm on Tuesday, January 29. On attending the scene, an altercation occurred and three people were arrested - a 22year-old man from Lyme Regis on suspicion of assaulting a constable on duty, burglary, theft from a shop and assault; a 24-year-old woman from Lyme Regis on suspicion of two counts of assault by beating of an emergency worker; and a 23-year-old man from Devon on suspicion of burglary and assault. Attempts were also made to break into In Harmony beauty salon in Silver Street but no access to the premises was gained. ■ THE previous evening - Monday, January 28 - a window was smashed at a residential property in Church Street, Lyme Regis. Police were called to the scene at 5.45pm and conducted a search of the area. A 36-year-old man from Lyme Regis was arrested on suspicion on possession of an offensive weapon and criminal damage. ■ OFFICERS investigating a series of Christmas break-ins in Lyme Regis and an assault in Bridport say a man has come forward. The assault is reported to have occurred at the Esso petrol station shop on East Road, Bridport, at around 1.30am on Wednesday, December 26 when a man was caught on CCTV camera. The reported burglaries occurred in Lyme Regis over Christmas at the Ocean View restaurant on Marine Parade, Boots and Red Panda on Broad Street, with tip jars and charity collections boxes stolen. A 33-year-old man has contacted officers after seeing the appeal and is assisting with the investigation. No arrests have been made.
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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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Excavating seafront property ‘could be catastrophic’ for Lyme CONTINUED FROM FRONT PAGE plan living, dining and kitchen area and an en suite bedroom suitable for a wheelchair user, while the second floor would have two further en suite bedrooms and a balcony. Owners of neighbouring properties have voiced concerns about the instability of the land and the effect building work will have on nearby traders, and Lyme Regis Town Council also recommended refusal of the application “in the strongest possible terms”. The town council’s response said the application lacked “critical supporting information”, in particular any expert geotechnical advice about the potential impact of the proposed excavation of material on neighbouring properties and the need or otherwise for new or reinforced retaining structures, ground piling or ground anchoring. It added: “Given the history of ground movement and slippage in Lyme Regis, particularly in the seafront area, the town council finds this lack of supporting information completely unacceptable and wishes to object to the application as it currently stands in the strongest possible terms.” The town council also raised concerns about the general design of the property, in particular the incorporation of a new ground floor with doors opening directly onto Marine Parade, which is councilowned. Members also expressed concerns
about the potential impact on neighbouring businesses during the construction phase, in particular the impact of noise and dust on adjacent commercial food premises, and the wider impact on access along the seafront area during the construction phase, which could last up to 12 months. Neil and Maria Hamlin, owners of the neighbouring grade II listed Alcove, said that excavating the site could cause severe damage to their own property, and could also damage a fast-running spring underneath The Alcove. Great problems for traders They said they would be unable to trade during the building work due to noise and dust pollution, and that the possible closure of Marine Parade or a bridge over it to allow public access during the works would cause “great problems for traders”. They added: “To bring the property down to Marine Parade level will involve massive excavation over a considerable time. Any land movement would undermine all these old buildings, the result could be catastrophic for Lyme Regis.” Peter Fortnam, whose family company owns Ross House - otherwise known as 8 and 8a Broad Street to the north of the bungalow - added: “The planned excavations to take the site down to the level of Marine Parade and probable piling will be of a scale to potentially trigger movement causing possible catastrophic damage to the sur-
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rounding buildings. “The piling would cause significant vibration affecting the often fragile structure of historic grade II listed buildings, Ross House being of traditional stone construction with timber frame upper elevations dating from 1650. Many of these structures would have little in the way of foundations.” Mr Fortnam also expressed concerns about water springs in the area and the visual impact of the proposed building, as well as the large increase in the number of rear-facing windows and the installation of a balcony, which he said would impact on the privacy of neighbouring properties. In addressing concerns about land movement, West Dorset’s Technical Services team commented: “Existing sea defences constructed in 2007 should remain effective and provide suitable protection against coastal erosion for between 60 to 100 years with an effective beach management plan in place. “In addition, slope stability measures constructed as part of the same scheme will substantially mitigate the risks that currently identify the site as falling within a high risk zone depicting cliff top recession.” The report suggested that further details, particularly relating to the method of demolition, foundation design and the impact the proposed new dwelling may have on slope stability, be requested before con-
struction starts and this was included as a condition of the planning approval. West Dorset’s conservation officer raised no objections to the plans, commenting: “The proposals, I believe, if undertaken with high quality materials and craftsmanship, should enhance (or at least preserve) the character and setting of the conservation area, World Heritage Site and setting of neighbouring listed buildings.” District and county councillor Daryl Turner also said he had no objections outside the conditions of the planning approval. No response has been published from district councillor Cheryl Reynolds. The application did not go to West Dorset’s Planning Committee and was instead approved by delegated powers of officers, taking into account the views of the committee chairman and ward members. It was also not considered in public by the town council’s Planning Committee, as there was limited time to give a response, so members agreed to recommend refusal in private. The application and approval will be discussed further at the town council’s next Planning Committee meeting on Tuesday, February 5 and the deputy town clerk is seeking an urgent meeting with the applicant to discuss their concerns. The full plans, comments and decision notice can be found on West Dorset District Council’s website at https://bit.ly/2FTYCMR
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Marine Theatre receives Councillors given update on Daryl makes early bid £32,000 restoration grant plans for Dorset National Park for new unitary seat
THE Marine Theatre in Lyme Regis is one of 23 projects around the British coast to receive a share of almost £1million from the Coastal Revival Fund. The theatre was awarded £32,000 in the Coastal Revival Fund’s latest grants to help restore local community assets. The money will go towards the ongoing restoration of the Marine Theatre, to maximise income generation, increase audiences and increase community access. The grant announcement added: “The long term aim is to secure a key cultural and tourist asset for the town.” The Coastal Revival Fund provides grants to coastal heritage sites to fund repairs, restoration and bring economic growth to coastal communities. It also supports large scale projects which are important to local communities but have not yet reached their full economic potential or are facing neglect. Coastal Communities Minister Jake Berry MP, said: “I’m proud to support these 23 magnificent projects from Ryde to Runcorn with investment from the government’s Coastal Revival Fund. Putting heritage at the heart of our coastal towns is an important way of attracting visitors and boosting our local economies.
“We’re determined to save these historic landmarks for the benefit and enjoyment of future generations while delivering on our promise to invest over a quarter of a billion pounds into the Great British Coast by 2020.” Theatre director Gabby Rabbitts commented: “We are delighted with Jake Berry’s announcement today. Over the last year, we’ve seen increased confidence from organisations following our efforts to place the Marine back at the heart of the community. “The money will be used for much needed repairs and renovations to the building, which will improve the experience of the venue for performers, tourists, and the all of the local community.” Duncan Wilson, chief executive of Historic England, added: “Our seaside towns are rich with unique historic buildings and places, from the grand Lytham Hall to the Victorian public pleasure grounds of º-by-the-Sea. “We’re delighted that this further round of funding will help secure the future of these 23 important sites on our Heritage at Risk Register so that they can be used and enjoyed by generations to come.”
AN update on plans to create a Dorset National Park was given at this week’s meeting of Lyme Regis Town Council. Campaigners Dr Paul Kelly and Richard and Sandra Brown attended the meeting to outline their plans and what the establishment of a National Park would mean for Dorset. Councillors were told that Dorset was listed as a potential National Park when the initiative was first introduced in the 1940s but it had since been left behind. Mrs Brown outlined that creating a National Park would help to conserve and enhance Dorset’s outstanding landscape and heritage, boost the economy and attract new funding from central government, make Dorset a global brand and destination, help farmers and land managers to access funding and support, and work with communities for appropriate development, including affordable housing. However, councillors had some queries about what powers the National Park would have and how it would work alongside the new unitary Dorset Council, which will come into force in May. In particular, members were interested to learn that the National Park would take over as the planning authority and it would not be controlled by national housing policies, but would instead work with the community for appropriate de-
velopment. Mrs Brown said that the National Park would also be responsible for matters relating to heritage, environment and recreation, with the new Dorset Council still responsible for essential services such as education and social care. Councillor Brian Larcombe expressed concerns that this would leave the unitary authority to pick up the “heavy bills” while the National Park took on the more attractive services. Mrs Brown explained that 50 per cent of the National Park authority would be made up of members of the new Dorset Council, 25 per cent would be from town and parish councils and 25 per cent would be residents who put themselves forward and would be selected by the Secretary of State. She said this would give town and parish councils more say on matters such as planning. However, the Mayor of Lyme Regis, Councillor Michaela Ellis, expressed that not all town and parish councils in Dorset would be represented. Campaigners are now waiting for the recommendations of the government’s Glover Review on National Parks, which are expected in October. For more details on the campaign for a Dorset National Park, visit www.dorsetnationalpark.com
Look out for our first anniversary issue on February 15 Until then you can catch up with the latest at www.lyme-online.co.uk
COUNTY councillor Daryl Turner has outlined his “aspirations and ambitions” for the new unitary authority to come into force in Dorset later this year. Updating residents in his regular ‘In Touch’ newsletter, the Conservative councillor said the formation of the new Dorset Council - which will replace existing district and county councils in May - was a “once in a lifetime opportunity” and intimated that he would be standing for election, saying it was “a task for an experienced councillor”. Councillor Turner, a Lyme Regis resident who also serves on the district council, said: “My aspirations and ambitions are for Dorset Council to be a place where people want to live, visit, learn and work; a place of aspiration and prosperity where plans are made and ambitions are achieved, with an economy that really works for local people. “We have an iconic coastal environment which needs to be highlighted globally, while also promoting a healthy and exciting place for people to live. What’s good for Dorset is good for Lyme regis and Charmouth. “This is a new role in a new structure and with hard work great things can be achieved.” Councillor Turner outlined his experience as both a district and county councillor, adding: “I do not make promises I can’t fulfil but do promise to continue to get our fair share for our new ward from our new council. Maintaining services to my best ability, looking at new ways to deliver them in the challenging times ahead. “My objective is simple; if re-elected I will continue to work with and help our area in the new authority. A strong voice at the unitary table, taking your agenda to Dorchester. As always, you can be assured that I will always give 100 per cent. “I have always helped our communities ensuring that the right things get done and the wrong things are challenged... I’ll continue to listen to those I represent and help those who need help. “I truly believe that sustainable growth in Dorset as a whole will enable our area to become the resilient community it must be for the future, investing in infrastructure, education and working in ever closer partnership with Public Health, the Clinical Commissioning Group and NHS to deliver more.”
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NEWS ONLINE: Catch up with A round-up of the top stories from our website
Restoration of mill’s waterwheel complete Lifeboat trains with helicopter
VOLUNTEERS at the Town Mill in Lyme Regis are excited to announce that the refurbishment of the wooden waterwheel has been completed. A public reception to celebrate the re-opening will be held on Sunday, February 3 at 12noon when town crier Alan Vian will officially announce the turning of the wheel – all are welcome.
VOLUNTEERS of Lyme Regis lifeboat crew took part in a major exercise with the coastguard helicopter on Sunday morning. The 75 minute exercise began when the helicopter, from St Athan in the Vale of Glamorgan, landed on the beach and the aircraft’s winchman transferred to the lifeboat.
Senior lifeboat helm Tim Edwards said: “This was a really valuable exercise in dealing with a casualty at sea, particularly with the winchman aboard to advise on the handling of difficult situations when performing complicated rescues involving the coastguard helicopter.” Photo by Richard Austin
Community space to inspire creativity Trust pays tribute to benefactor Volunteers needed for Fossil Fest A NEW community space with a feminine feel has opened in Lyme Regis. Professional photographer Janette Edmonds has opened The Room Upstairs in St Michael’s Business Centre. Formally part of the View From Newspaper offices, the room has been given a complete transformation, creating a light and airy venue that can be hired for events, exhibitions, workshops and more.
A MAN who generously donated land for an affordable housing development in Lyme Regis has died, aged 96. David Garman OBE offered an acre of land off Timber Hill to Lyme Regis Community Land Trust, allowing them to build their first affordable housing development for local people, named Garman’s Field.
ORGANISERS of this year’s Fossil Festival are looking for volunteers to help run the annual event. The festival will be held from Friday, May 3 to Sunday, May 5 and organisers are looking for volunteers for a number of roles. Those interested should email admin@lrdt.co.uk or call 01297 445021.
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Artsreach celebrates national Village Halls Week DORSET’S touring arts charity Artsreach backed national campaign celebrating village halls last week, turning the spotlight on the work of its own team of volunteer promoters who devote their time to hosting professional arts events in community venues across the county. For more details on Artsreach and its programme of upcoming event, visit www.artsreach.co.uk
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the latest from Lyme Regis
FROM LYME’S OW N COMMUNIT Y WEBSITE
Stay up to date at www.lyme-online.co.uk - 24/7 news | sport | community Not bad for a ‘sleepy’ seaside town
The Hub to host free safeguarding course LYME Regis Development Trust is continuing its support of The Hub Youth Club and local community groups by offering a free safeguarding training course at The Hub on Wednesday, March 13. Those interested in attending should email diane@lrdt.co.uk
Police warning after phone scam targets local business POLICE have warned of a telephone scam after a Lyme Regis businesswoman was targeted on Thursday. A man purporting to be from the police called the business asking for a minimum donation of £100 to pay towards information packs the police were producing for local schoolchildren, which the woman refused to pay. Police will never phone and ask for money.
LYME Regis is often described as a sleepy seaside town. And while it may well seem that way to those visiting from the bright lights of London, if you look a little closer it’s anything but sleepy to me. While we’ve temporarily lost the Rock Point Inn and the Ship Inn (as of February 6), the rest of Lyme’s pubs are putting in great effort to keep us busy during the winter months. SWIM offers live music every Thursday, as well as DJs on Saturday nights and Sunday afternoons, while the Pilot Boat has live music on Wednesday and Fridays, along with quiz nights, Sunday markets and special offers all week. The Nag’s Head always pulls in the crowds for its live music nights on Saturdays and the Royal Standard’s more chilled out Sunday Sounds have also proved a hit. The Volunteer is also getting in on the act, with popular local musicians Jon Matthews and Brian Street having recently launched their regular Sunday sessions at the pub, and the Harbour often offers cool beachside DJ nights. Along with the varied programme available at the Marine Theatre, you can practically pull on your dancing shoes every night of the week. Not bad for a sleepy seaside town. And if music isn’t your thing, don’t forget the Six Nations kicks off tonight with the Nag’s Head, SWIM and the Pilot Boat also
screening matches. Many pubs will also be celebrating Valentine’s Day this month, including the Harbour Inn offering an indulgent three-course special menu (see advertisement on page 9) and the Nag’s teaming up with Herbie’s Dino Bar for a more relaxed fish and chip supper - singles welcome! Thanks to all who sent lovely birthday cards and messages to me last week. I celebrated my 30th with a great party at the football club and was treated to dinner at HIX Oyster & Fish House. But the celebrations don’t end there - by the time you read this column I’ll be heading to Heathrow for a two-week trip to Bali with some old school friends (as long as the forecasted snow doesn’t interrupt my plans - fingers crossed!). That means Dad is in charge for two weeks and he’ll be working on our special first anniversary edition, which will be out on February 15, celebrating LymeOnline’s first year in business and looking back on a very busy (and definitely not sleepy) 12 months in Lyme Regis.
Francesca Evans, Editor
NE W LOOK
Local author shortlisted Town Mill appoints for travel writing prize new volunteer leader A BOOK featuring Lyme Regis has been named among the world class shortlist for the Lonely Planet Adventure Travel Book of the Year 2019. Dorset resident Iain Gately’s ‘The Secret Surfer’ joins works by the likes of TV broadcaster and traveller Ben Fogle, and Channel 4 presenter Levison Wood on the award shortlist.
THE Town Mill Trustees have announced the appointment of Petrina Muscroft to their staff, taking over from Nikki Taylor as volunteer leader. Petrina will be responsible for enhancing the whole visitor experience at the iconic attraction situated in the heart old Lyme and is currently looking for new volunteers to join her team.
Hit play about Quentin Crisp to visit Lyme FROM a conventional upbringing to global notoriety via ‘The Naked Civil Servant’, Quentin Crisp was an extraordinary raconteur and wit, and one of the most memorable figures of the twentieth century. ‘Quentin Crisp: Naked Hope’ is fresh from a UK tour and shows Quentin in his beloved Chelsea flat in the 1960s, and in his final years in his adopted New York. The play comes to the Marine Theatre in Lyme Regis on Thursday, February 21 with the bar opening at 7pm for an 8pm start. Tickets cost £14 in advance or £16 on the door, with 10 per cent off for Theatre Friends. To book, call 01297 442138 or visit www.marinetheatre.com
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LYME MATTERS with Philip Evans Essential reading for all those with Lyme at heart
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Ushering in new council era T
HOSE of us who are mildly okay, in my case, wildly - interested in the affairs of our local council are starting to think about who will be the next mayor of Lyme Regis as the current incumbent, Michaela Ellis, comes to the end of her second twoyear term.
I count myself fortunate to have held that position for just one year when I was 35 years old, the youngest person to hold office, a dubious honour I still hold. I have some lovely memories. Doing the mayoral bit is easy and pleasurable – opening fetes, attending annual dinners, making speeches, kissing babies. No matter who wears the chains, the people of Lyme Regis treat the town’s First Citizen with total respect. But it’s important to remember it’s the office they respect, not necessarily the individual who wears those chains. Usually, it’s a two-year term but there’s been a few down the years who wanted the position for life. The difficult bit is chairing meetings and this has been especially so in recent years when the town council, to put it mildly, has not covered itself in glory. For me it was the most challenging part of the job, especially as Stan Williams, who was in his energetic 40s at the time, was at his most demanding. A few years ago, when county and district councillor Daryl Turner started his successful local government career by winning a seat on the town council, he advocated separating the role of mayor and council chairman, following the example set by Bridport Town Council, by the appointment of a leader. I was very much opposed to this move, arguing that Lyme was a small town and that dividing the role would probably introduce party politics to the Guildhall, as happened at Bridport where the Liberals have held sway for many years. In those days the Bridport Liberal councillors met before each meeting to decide which way to vote and very often reduced council deliberations to being no more than the rubber stamping of decisions, stifling robust de-
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bate. I understand this is no longer the case in Bridport, although the Liberals still command a majority. Lyme council has always prided itself on being independent, although for many years it was independent with a small ‘c’. Although they did not stand officially on a political platform, the so-called ‘gang of five’, which dominated council affairs before the current councillors took over, clearly leaned towards the left, many would say with Marxist overtones. Mark Gage became the ‘de-facto’ leader of the council and he and his cohorts often met prior to meetings to make decisions that should have received more open discussion at council meetings virtually negating the views of others. Although I opposed the group as editor of the View from Lyme, I did not think every decision they made was politically motivated, or indeed not in the town’s interest, and Mr Gage was an excellent chairman, one of the better ones of recent years. Having watched the current council struggle through these past four years with a number of recurring issues which remain unsettled, and difficult staffing issues, I’ve had a complete change of mind on the question of the appointment of a council leader as well as a mayor. The next few years is going to be crucial for Lyme Regis Town Council with the incoming of the new unitary authority just weeks away and the possibility of more responsibility being eventually handed down to the towns. The relationship between Lyme and West Dorset District Council was fragile to say the least for the whole of its 45 years of existence. If Lyme – the far western outpost of the new unitary territory - is to get its just desserts, a firm and respectful relationship must be established from day one. This will require more respect than has been shown between the two authorities on both sides, town and district. The current district and county member for Lyme, Daryl Turner, one of the most influential councillors in Dorset, holding the chairmanship of two major committees, revealed this week, in a Conservative flyer to local households, that he intends to seek election to the new authority when West Dorset goes to the polls in May, presumably as a Tory. Others are expected to reveal their intentions in the coming weeks. Councillor Turner is not a big admirer of the Lyme council and has expressed his doubts in public about whether they are capable of taking on more responsibility under the current regime. The workload in running Lyme Regis will increase over the next few years and I think the town will be better served by a leader who can steer the council through these choppy waters whilst the new mayor looks after building relationships in the community. There are many in the town, I know, who think the people of Lyme should elect the mayor, but there is no legal way this can happen. So who are the front runners in the mayoral stakes? It’s impossible to predict because there’s an election on May 2. The new mayor will not be chosen until the week after the election at the new council’s first meeting. If they win approval from the electors, it could be a two-horse race between the mercurial Jeff Scowen or the more traditional Stephen Miller, the current deputy mayor. Councillor Miller also chairs the council’s principal committee, Strategy and Finance, and Councillor Scowen is cutting his teeth
THIS is the bungalow on Marine Parade that will be razed to the ground and replaced by a three-storey house causing great concerns over stability by owners of properties to the rear
Will this plan change the face of the Marine Parade? WHEN the news broke this week that West Dorset District planning officers had approved an application for a bungalow on the seafront to be replaced by a three-storey house there was a sharp intake of breath. “You have to be kidding”, was one remark I received from a keen watcher of local affairs. The site in question, wedged between The Alcove cafe and shop and Mollie’s ice cream kiosk, on the narrowest part of the parade, is currently occupied on a raised level by a charming bungalow which was once the family home of the Fortnam family and is now a luxury holiday let. The owner wants to raze it to the ground and take the site down to street level, which means the Marine Parade, and possibly parts of the Cart Road, could be closed for up to 12 months. There’s also talk of constructing a bridge over the parade for people to be able to continue their walk along the seafront. One question of everyone’s lips was “why didn’t we know about this?” The application came in after the agenda for the town council Planning Committee was published and therefore it could not be discussed at the meeting. But afterwards committee chairman Brian Larcombe informed his members of the application and asked for their opinion. They were unanimous in expressing their opposition to the plan in the strongest possible terms, pointing out there was very little information contained in the planning application about the stability of the site,
chairing the occasional Town Management Committee. It would be difficult to find two more different candidates. A new era of local government is being ushered in with the formation of the unitary authority. This is the time for the town council to examine its method of operation, to make it more streamlined, more open with less discussion behind closed doors, and more in line with the age in which we live. I’m a traditionalist at heart but I don’t agree with the view expressed by a senior councillor recently who said, and I paraphrase, “the old
just a few hundred yards from where there was a major landslip in the early 1960s. Had the application been on the town’s agenda, LymeOnline would have reported on it. It’s amazing that the application did not go before West Dorset District Council’s planning committee because it was so close to such a notoriously unstable area, not to mention the major effect it will have on the businesses either side. The reason given was that the application was approved by the planning officers, subject to conditions, and the decision was made under delegated powers. Another question on people’s lips was how this application, always likely to be controversial, was approved in such quick time. It was only lodged in early November and a decision was made last week. West Dorset is not renowned for the alacrity of its planning process. One concern is that if this plan goes ahead it could open up similar avenues for the development of other seafront properties, changing the face of Marine Parade. A mini-Sandbanks perhaps. As you can imagine, the owners of properties behind the site are very alarmed at the possible consequences and are calling for more detail about the stability issues. The application will now be discussed as a matter of urgency by the town planners next week and I predict there will be a huge brou-ha-ha before a brick is laid.
ways are the best”. We can start a new way by separating the role of mayor and council chairman and maybe review some of Lyme’s old and confusing traditions which belong to an age long gone. For example, is it really necessary today for the mayor to be dressed in heavy and uncomfortable robes and wearing a silly hat for civic functions, or for the town clerk to don a wig? I’m all for celebrating our past but isn’t it time we moved on? And if we did, would we not perhaps attract more younger members of our population who would consider sitting on
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‘Perching Places’ design selected for River Lim path A DORSET furniture designer has been chosen to design creative seating and animal homes at locations along the River Lim path. Alice Blogg will work with environmental arts charity Common Ground to deliver her design concept ‘Perching Places’. The charity seeks imaginative ways to engage with projects linked to the local environment, highlighting ‘local distinctiveness’, and Alice plans to use locally-sourced materials to create pieces themed on the River Lim’s historical watermills. Creative, robust wooden seating and small bird/animal homes will encourage people to stop at places along the path, to perch on seats and take in the natural river path views and wildlife and to be inspired by the river connections to the mill industry. Alice said: “‘Perching Places’ is an exciting opportunity to design and make architectural seating and animal architecture which doesn't impose on the existing eco-system of the river and the surrounding habitats. “The project tells the story of the
River Lim through the cogs and wheels of the mills that have been on the river since the 13th century, and of the river’s journey from Uplyme to its river mouth at Lyme Regis. “With locally-sourced wood at its heart, this project is all I love about being a furniture maker. “Having the arts charity Common Ground as a sounding board has helped me shape my ideas and has made me look at this project in a more microscopic way. I am really looking forward to making these pieces and seeing them finished in their setting on the River Lim this coming summer.” Improvements to the River Lim path between Lyme Regis seafront and the Town Mill, and on to Uplyme, have been taking place over the last year and the path and has seen new improved surfacing, signage, replacement of a bridge, gates and posts and a new footway alongside the B3165 in Uplyme, near the village hall, connecting the path to the rest of the East Devon Way. River Lim walking maps have also
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been produced and widely distributed, to celebrate and promote the enhanced path, highlighting areas of historical interest and wildlife along the way. The free ‘Z-Card’ maps are available at Lyme Regis Museum, the Tourist Information Centre, accommodation providers and other outlets in and around Uplyme and Lyme Regis. The River Lim Path project is part of the Dorset Coastal Connections portfolio of 18 projects along the Dorset Coast, which aims to support and boost the economies of Dorset’s coastal areas. The range of projects connect urban coastal areas to rural coastal areas, working to promote and sell the Dorset coast as a whole. The project is being funded by a grant from the government’s Coastal Communities Fund and partner organisations, and is co-ordinated by the Dorset Coast Forum. Specifically, the Lyme Regis to Uplyme path project is led by LymeForward in partnership with The Arts Development Company and Dorset and Devon county councils.
Tourist Information to be closed at Guildhall Cottage - but not for a year LYME Regis Town Council plans to close the Tourist Information Centre in its current location at Guildhall Cottage and use the space as offices - but not for at least another year. The town council currently leases the ground floor of Guildhall Cottage to West Dorset District Council, which runs the Tourist Information Centre. After months of negotiations, it was expected that the town council would take over control of the service when a unitary authority replaces the district council later this year, but the new Dorset Council’s Shadow Executive did not support the agreement. In October last year, the town council then agreed not to renew the lease for the Tourist Information Centre, expiring in March, and instead to use the ground floor as additional office space in a full renovation of Guildhall Cottage. Before the town clerk acted on this resolution, West Dorset contacted him to say it was already planning to close the Tourist Information Centre and wanted to negotiate a termination of the lease. However, the district council has since made a u-turn and now says it plans to continue providing a tourist information service in Lyme Regis and transfer this to the new Dorset Council as a going concern in May. Having heard that West Dorset planned to continue providing the service, town councillors were split this week when asked if they still wanted to serve notice on the district council to end the tenancy of the ground floor of Guildhall Cottage, which would come into effect at the end of September. They were told this was likely to cost the town £16,200 for ending the lease early. Councillors Graham Turner, Derek Hallett and John Broom spoke in favour of ending the lease, saying they could use the time between now and September to get plans together for the refurbishment of Guildhall Cottage and start work as soon as the Tourist Information Centre vacated. Councillor Brian Larcombe agreed, adding: “The district council changed their mind and in the meantime we had made assumptions and started to think about the Guildhall Cottage refurbishment. “The fact that they said they didn’t want to run it and then changed their mind puts a bit of a colouring on any compensatory element we might be obliged to pay. They cannot muck us around like this. We have plans to make and money to commit.” However, the Mayor of Lyme Regis, Councillor Michaela Ellis, expressed concerns that the council was acting too quickly without full plans for the Guildhall Cottage in place. She said: “We need to understand exactly what sort of work we need to have done in there and how much it’s going to cost us before we make a final decision.” Councillor Ellis also said that council staff would not be
able to work in the building while the refurbishment was going to take place, which would mean relocating them twice. Councillor Cheryl Reynolds added: “There’s one thing here we have forgotten - the staff of the Tourist Information Centre. They are local people, they are people we should be concerned about.” Councillor Richard Doney said members were “losing sight” of the Tourist Information Centre’s functions and value in the town, and suggested the council look at the way it promotes the town as a whole, including its website, tourism brochure and social media. He added: “I’m a firm believer in TICs, I think they bring value to towns... I would like to see it maintained and preserved. They do perform a very valuable function, not least to the theatre and local businesses.” Councillor John Broom said the council should be “proactive and not reactive”. “We sat around for four years talking about what West Dorset would give us and what did we get? Sweet nothing. We should serve notice and get it done,” he added. Councillor Steve Miller said that the town council could negotiate with the new Dorset Council so they would not have to pay the £16,200 if they ended the lease in a year. Councillor Brian Larcombe argued that the town council’s negotiations with West Dorset so far had been “abysmal” and said he had “no confidence” that they would get anything out of further discussions. After a close vote, it was agreed to wait 12 months to give notice on the Tourist Information Centre and to use the time to properly plan the Guildhall Cottage refurbishments and a future tourist information service.
DORSET-based furniture designer and maker Alice Blogg will create pieces of the River Lim path (photo by Alun Callender)
The BIG Breakfast
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Plans to get youth club up and running again VOLUNTEERS and sponsors are needed to help get Charmouth Youth Club’s drop-in nights up and running again. The regular drop-in youth club nights stopped when Dorset County Council withdrew funding for almost all youth clubs and centres in the area in 2016. Luckily, Charmouth Youth Club in Wesley Close is owned by the community and held in trust for local children and young people, so a dedicated committee has been able to keep the building open over the past two years by hiring it out for events. This has covered the running costs of the site and donations and fundraising events have allowed some improvements to be carried out, but it is now hoped that the drop-in youth club nights can be re-established with qualified youth workers. The committee has outlined the following ways that residents and supporters can help get the drop-in sessions up and running: 1) Donate or help raise funds - Charmouth Youth Club is a charity so it can accept donations, or you could host a fundraising event. 2) Give your expertise - those with experience is painting and decorating, electrics or carpentry would be welcome to help maintain the youth club. 3) Hire the club - the clubhouse includes a sports hall marked out as a basketball and badminton court which is great for physical activities, parties and events, or there is a back room suitable for smaller groups or meetings, as well as a kitchen. 4) Join the trustees - Charmouth Youth Club has recently expanded its committee but is always interested to hear from anyone who can add their expertise or experience, particularly around youth and community work or fundraising. 5) Volunteer - apply to become a regular volunteer to help run youth club nights once they start again. 6) Become a sponsor - local business or individuals who can pledge regular funds could instantly secure the future of the youth club. Anyone interested in helping Charmouth Youth Club in any way should contact chairman Pete Wild on 01297 560030 or 07949 92 834 or email peter@thebeachrooms.co.uk
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Street Food Festival to return THE Dorset Street Food Festival will return to Lyme Regis over the weekend of July 12 to 14. Town councillors last week gave permission for the festival to return this summer, despite some controversy surrounding the event when it first came to Lyme Regis last year. The foodie event clashed with the annual Jazz & Blues Festival, which the town council admitted was a mistake, and local traders complained that the festival vendors came from out of the area. In a report to the Tourism, Community & Publicity Committee, deputy town clerk Mark Green wrote: “Although the clash of the events was clearly a mistake and there was some criticism of the lack of local trader involvement, the event was well-attended and very well organised. “The event management, safety and waste plans were extremely professional and the management and control of traders and waste before, during and after the event was well organised, with as many as 12 event staff on site at most times.” Mr Green also reported that the event made a payment of £1,500 for use of the council’s land last year, and contributed towards the cost of the Jazz & Blues Festival. He added: “This represented by far the largest payment of any event for the use of council-owned land and was negotiated as a one-off sum given the unique nature of the event and its location.” Councillors agreed that the festival could be held over the weekend of July 12 to 14, using the flat roof area above SWIM, the Amusement Arcade and Antique & Craft Centre on Marine Parade once again. Organisers Street Food Warehouse have said they will work hard to ensure the involvement of local traders at this year’s event and vendor applications are now open. Traders can apply to take part in the festival at www.streetfoodwarehouse.co.uk up until 3pm on February 8.
Street Food Warehouse is a national, touring street food collective that holds numerous festivals across the UK Street Food Warehouse run numerous events across the UK. Event manager Caroline Kinderman said: “We are very excited to be coming back to Lyme for 2019 and the second Dorset Street
Food Festival. “We would really like to reach out to the local street food community and encourage people to apply to trade with us as we know from first hand experience there is a wealth of street food talent in the South West!”
BRAVE, honest and humorous, ‘Kinetics’ was originally written as a stage play but, following national demand for it to tour and a subsequent fundraising campaign, it was turned in to a film which is now set for a one-off screening hosted by Artsreach this February. Written by Dorset-based actor and writer Sue Wylie, and based on her own experiences of being diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, ‘Kinetics’ charts the remarkable true story of two people, seemingly at polar opposites. Rose is trying to come to terms with her own diagnosis, when an unlikely friendship springs up as parkour runner Lukas comes tumbling into her life. Sue Wylie has performed in many national theatre and TV productions, but this inspiring project marked a new phase in her career. She commented: “Shortly after my 50th birthday, I was diagnosed with Parkinson’s. After the initial shock I knew I wanted to write about it. As a professional actress I know how communication through a script is a powerful tool. ‘I was teaching drama at a college at the time and discovered a 16-year-old student in my tutor group was free running on the school roof! The exhilaration was his release and I was intrigued by the risks he took in his addiction to this extreme sport, known as parkour. “How interesting to contrast that with a
middle-aged woman whose world of movement is slowly becoming eroded. What if their paths should accidentally cross and an unlikely friendship form? I knew there was a play script in there and thus ‘Kinetics’ was born.” Having been on two critically-acclaimed theatrical tours, including two sell-out performances with Artsreach, it was apparent that the story of ‘Kinetics’ had the power to provide catharsis and insight to those affected by Parkinson’s and the wider general public. With demands to have the play staged coming from locations across the country, along with Sue’s internal desire to share the story as widely as possible, it became apparent that ‘Kinetics’ should be turned into a film. Following an incredibly successful fundraising campaign, more than £30,000 was raised and ‘Kinetics’ the film was premiered in the spring of 2018, and returns this spring for one special screening in Wootton Fitzpaine, near Charmouth. The screening will be held at the village hall on Friday, February 15, hosted by Dorset’s touring arts charity Artsreach. The screening at 7pm will be followed by a question and answer with writer Sue Wylie. Further information and tickets are available at www.artsreach.co.uk or call 01297 560948.
One-off film screening to be held in Wootton
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Syrian supper to be held for Uplyme Community Sponsorship scheme THE Uplyme Community Sponsorship Scheme, which is aiming to raise funds to resettle a refugee Syrian family in the area, will host its first fundraising event on Saturday, March 16. A Syrian Supper will be held at Uplyme Village Hall at 7pm, bringing some of the finest flavours of the Middle East to East Devon. Syrian food has traditionally been some of the finest in the Middle East due to the quality and variety of the local fruit and vegetables and the sophistication of the cooking. This venerable food culture places considerable emphasis on eating together and offering generous hospitality to guests. The principal meal would usually include one or two main dishes, supplemented by a variety of salads, pickles and vegetable side dishes plus bread and either rice or couscous. These would all be served in communal bowls and platters placed in the centre of the table for everyone to make their personal selection. Fresh fruit would be eaten at the end of the meal with mint tea or coffee. Uplyme Community Sponsorship Scheme volunteers have devised a three-course supper
menu featuring typical Syrian dishes with ingredients and flavours such as preserved and dried lemons, nuts, yoghurt, sumac, dried mint, saffron, sesame and pomegranate molasses. Most dishes are vegetarian but there will be a main meat option of Kefte or Dawood Basha, meatballs made with minced lamb and wild game, flavoured with cumin, fennel seeds and dried oregano, baked in a tomato sauce and served with rice and toasted pine nuts. Tickets are £20 each and will go on sale at the Uplyme Stores from Friday, February 1. Places are limited to 60. The bar will be open and the event will also include a quiz and raffle to raise funds for the scheme, with working together to sponsor the resettlement of a Syrian refugee family in the local area under the national Community Sponsorship scheme, which was launched in 2016 by the Home Secretary and Archbishop of Canterbury. The scheme has already received a great response from Uplyme residents, with many attending a public meeting in December to learn more about the idea and offer their support. Future fundraising events planned include a
SPRING EDITION COMING SOON!
New location for escape room
special performance at the Marine Theatre on Wednesday, April 24, a clothes sale, a jazz concert, another community meal and an auction of promises. The Uplyme Community Sponsorship group would welcome anyone who is interested in lending support or wanting further information on the scheme to contact them by emailing uplymecommunitysponsorship@gmail.com Further information on the national scheme is also available on the website www.gov.uk/government/publications/apply-for-full-community-sponsorship
String quartet to play at village hall
THE Accordia String Quartet, led by Alexandra Ennis, will be performing The Chestnut Concert at Uplyme Village Hall on Saturday, February 9 at 7.30pm. The concert will include Haydn's String Quartet No.19, the slow movement of Bach's Double Violin Concerto, and Mozart's Divertimento No.3, with a second-half selection of pieces from Elgar to the tango. The event has been organised by Lyme Quaker Meeting in memory of their former clerk, Tim Solloway, who was a great supporter of local music and held chamber concerts at his own home in Uplyme. Tickets cost £10 and are available from Carl Holland on 07970 068 700, from Lyme Regis Tourist Information Centre on 01297 442138 or on the door.
HAVING proved a huge hit in its first location in Uplyme, Challenger Escapes will be moving to the Hunter’s Lodge Inn for two weeks before embarking on a nationwide tour. The pop-up escape room, set up by Uplyme brothers Sam and Jamie PollardJones, has seen great success since launching at the village hall in December, receiving five-star reviews from many customers. Due to high demand, it will now be set up at the Hunter’s Lodge Inn between Lyme Regis and Axminster, giving local residents an extra opportunity to try out the escape room before it sets off on a nationwide tour, with a residency in London already secured. Jamie and Sam commented: “We have been overwhelmed by the support and enthusiasm of those who have attended our experience so far and we have been inundated with requests for extra dates in the East Devon area. “This is the last chance before we head to London on the next leg of our nationwide tour.” Challenger Escapes will be at the Hunter’s Lodge Inn car park from January 29 to February 12. To book your experience, visit www.challengerescapes.com
Celebrate
Valentine’s Day at the Harbour Inn Lyme Regis
VALENTINE MENU THURSDAY 14 FEBRUARY To Start Watercress soup - finished with garlic croutons and white truffle oil. Seared Lyme Bay Scallops - black pudding, smoked bacon and sunblushed tomato salsa. Smoked Duck Breast Salad - with tempura asparagus spears, balsamic and fig dressing. Harbour Inn Seafood Tasting Plate - Beetroot gravadlax, Portland crab cake, battered mackerel, sweet cured herring and sesame mayonnaise. Main Course Devonshire Fillet Steak - hand cut chips, grilled tomato and saute mushrooms. Roast Half Guinea Fowl - Pan roasted breast presented on the slow roasted leg with mushroom sauce, root vegetable dauphinoise and roast baby vegetables. Fillet of Cornish Turbot - butternut squash and sage tortellini, butternut beurre blanc sauce. Harbour Inn Lobster Thermidor - Lyme Regis lobster cooked in our our special thermidor sauce, new potatoes.
THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO DORSET’S MOST POPULAR RESORT
To advertise call Debbie on 01297 306152
Sweets Fresh Strawberry Meringue Sundae. Individual Black Forest Gateau. Raspberry Creme Brulee. Selection of West Country Cheese and Biscuits. £28.50 per person inclusive
Call now to reserve your table 01297 442299 harbourinnlymeregis.co.uk
10 Friday, February 1 2019
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thosewerethedays
THE photograph in the last issue of LymeOnline of former Boots staff in Lyme Regis caused tremendous interest with a number of readers contacting us to identify some of those in the picture. They also confirmed the occasion was the retirement of pharmacist Mr Sidney Tidswell in 1972/73. Those who have been named include (seated - Mrs Win Blackwell, Connie Rattenbury, Bim Hallet, Carol Wiscombe and Fred Hopper. Standing - Vera Gillingham, Mary Thorrington, Ann Roberts, Mrs Winnie Broom, Mr Tidswell, Kathy Summers, Ann Curtis and Vera Froom. If you can identify any of the others, please contact us on 01298 442781. If you have an old photograph you would like published in LymeOnline, please email it to edit@lyme-online.co.uk as a jpeg or send it to: LymeOnline, Unit 5, Upyme Road Business Park, Lyme Regis. Dorset DT7 3LS. Please include a return address so we can scan the photo and return it.
Twinning association hosts coffee morning THE Lyme Regis/St George’s Twinning Association will host a coffee morning tomorrow (Saturday, February 2), starting at 10am at Lyme Regis Baptist Church. All are welcome. The twinning association celebrates historical links between Lyme Regis and St George’s in Bermuda - the islands being first
founded by Admiral Sir George Somers, a former Mayor of Lyme Regis and local MP, who was shipwrecked there on his way to the new English colony of Jamestown, Virgina. Lyme Regis and St George’s are now also’tripled’ with Jamestown, creating the Historic Atlantic Triangle.
Proposal to set up footgolf course at Strawberry Field
TOWN councillors have agreed in principle for a footgolf business to operate from the Strawberry Field in Lyme Regis. Seaton businessman Gary Davies brought his proposal for a footgolf course to last week’s meeting of the Tourism, Community & Publicity Committee. He explained that footgolf was played with a football, with players striking the ball with their feet to kick it into large cups set up around the green. Obstacles such as bunkers, trees and other objects can be positioned around the course, similar to traditional golf, to make the game more challenging. Mr Davies’ report said that footgolf was originally developed on established golf courses, but in recent years courses had been developed specifically for the sport. He added that footgolf could be played as an individual, in pairs or teams, and the ability level required to play was low, meaning it could be enjoyed by all ages. Mr Davies proposed setting up a nine-hole course on the Strawberry Field off Charmouth Road, which is leased by the town council and
earmarked for recreational use. The course would not have to be maintained like a golf course but the course layout would be denoted by grading the length of grass and siting large holes into the green. The report added: “The land could easily be returned to its current state should it need to.” Mr Davies said he could use the current timber building set up for the former pitch and putt course at Strawberry Field, which would require some maintenance work but he was happy to carry this out himself to create a reception area, changing facilities, party room and refreshment area. He added: “I have a vision of catering for all and making it an enjoyable place for those who visit the attraction.” The business would be managed by Mr Davies with part-time and seasonal staff, and could be up and running in time for this summer. Councillors agreed to the proposal in principle on a one-year trial, subject to confirmation of the rate to be paid to the council, which would be discussed at the next full council meeting.
ADVERTISER’S ANNOUNCEMENT
Panto society takes on ‘Snow White’ for 35th anniversary MARKING 35 years since its reformation in 1985, Lyme Regis Pantomime Society will present their own take on Disney classic ‘Snow White and the Seven Dwarves’ this year. The show is being directed by Sarah Causley with assistance from Amanda RattenburyDavies and Lorraine Knowles, with Sarah and Amanda also leading the choreography, and Lauren Good acting as musical director. This is the first time the society has taken on ‘Snow White’, one of the most popular pantomimes of all time. The story is based around the Wicked Queen (Lorraine Knowles) and her attempts to do away with Snow White (Jodie Glover), whose beauty has outshone her own, meaning she is no longer the fairest in the land. Assisted by Muddles (Dan Edwards), Herman (Drew Morris), Prince Lorenzo (Harvey Causley), the Seven Dwarfs (Jake Causley, Amanda Rattenbury-Davies, Naomi Davies-Griffiths, Megan Flux, Charis Holland, Cody Wootton, Grace Knowles) and Fairy Goodheart (Tracy Wood), audiences will be taken on a hilarious romp through the Kingdom of Moravia with lots of traditional pantomime humour and antics to try and save Snow White and defeat the powerful Queen. In true pantomime fashion there is lots of audience participation, dreadful jokes, bright lights, glitter and fabulous costumes. Boos, hisses and the infamous “it’s behind you” finish off the plot perfectly! All of this wrapped up with a bit of pantomime magic! The principal cast - including many panto reg-
ulars as well as some new faces - will be supported by a live band and talented chorus of Darci Street, Libby Flux, Millie-Jade Ellis, Isobel Davies-Griffiths, Klara Smith, Joshua Denning, Kate Wootton, Bev Rattenbury, Lindsey Cozens, Sarah Causley, Louise Rawlins, Sophia BriggsHarrison and Logan Street, who will be performing some foot-tapping song and dance numbers. The show would also not be complete without the hard-working backstage crew, under the management of Terry Cozens. Ensuring sets are changed on time, furniture is exactly where it is supposed to be and the curtain is pulled at the correct time is not an easy task, and normally all done in complete darkness. Working alongside Terry is the props lady, Jane Tappin, who has managed to make, beg, borrow and steal some fantastic props, adding the finishing touches to this colourful show. Rehearsals are well underway and tickets are now on sale at Lyme Regis Tourist Information Centre, costing £10 for adults and £6 for 14s and under - call 01297 442138.
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A four-page LymeOnline supplement
BIRD’S EYE VIEW A collection of unseen photographs of Lyme Regis 1930s-1950s by photographic enthusiast Percy Bird Woodmead Halls - Sunday February 10
A man before his time P
ERCY BIRD was an extraordinary man - a man before his time.
By day he worked on the railways - but in his spare time he developed brilliant photography skills, recording the events and views of Lyme Regis, most from between 1930 and 1950 which have never been seen until now. A collection of Percy’s fantastic work will be shown at the Woodmead Halls on Sunday, February 10, starting at 2.30pm in a presentation sponsored and organised by LymeOnline. The event has the full support of Percy’s family with proceeds from the entrance fee being donated to the Alzheimer’s Society. A commentary on Percy’s ‘Bird’s Eye View’ will be given by Ken Gollop, famous in Lyme for his hugely popular ‘Under Shady Tree’ presentations which always attract sell-out crowds. Award-winning local photographer Richard Austin will also be present to comment on Percy’s photographic skills. Percy’s collection of more than 800 glass negatives of local views and scenes, hitherto unseen, were discovered by his grandson, Rob Wheeler, when clearing out the roof of the family home at the bottom of
Hill Road where Percy spent the last years of a fascinating life. Rob, a keen and talented photographer himself, has painstakingly reproduced prints from the negatives and brought them to our attention. We contacted Mr Gollop, who has built up a collection of local photographs for Lyme Regis Museum, and he was staggered by the number and quality of Percy’s work. Richard Austin was also highly impressed by the technical quality of Percy’s work, bearing in mind the unsophisticated photographic kit of those days. So with Rob’s approval and that of his family, we have decided to show a selection of Percy’s work under the title of ‘Bird’s Eye View’ at the Woodmead Halls on February 10. And there was another fascinating aspect to Percy’s life. Always immaculately dressed, he also collected telescopes and musical squeeze boxes and rode a classic motorcycle. His family were blissfully unaware of most of this. Percy Bird was born in Kings Nympton in 1890. His parents were Henry and Annie Bird, who worked for Lord and Lady Rolle at Bicton Gardens. Henry was a groundsman and gamekeeper. Lord and Lady Rolle recommended Percy for a job
‘UNDER Shady Tree’ presenter Ken Gollop will introduce the Percy Bird collection in his inimitable style, assisted by award-winning local photographer Richard Austin on the railway when he was 15 years old. He started off as a steam engine cleaner and worked himself up to a steam engine driver. He drove the main line Exeter to Waterloo for some time. He married May Cozens, daughter
of Charles George Cozens and Bertha Ash Hill (Cozens) in 1913. Percy and May moved to Exeter where Percy worked and had children - Charlie, who was born in Uplyme; then Bill, Jack, Clifford, Sheila (later to marry Lyme builder Sam Wheeler), and Joan who still lives in Lyme. They also had two other boys George and Lesley, who died very young. Percy and May decided to move back to Lyme to live and had a house built in Colway Lane called Belvedere. In 1936 Sheila and Joan were sent on there own to travel by train to move to Lyme. Sheila was nine years old and Joan was four. They stayed with a sister of May, Effie Love, who lived with Bert in Corporation Terrace (now Lym Close). Percy, May and Clifford moved soon after their new house was built. Percy then drove the steam engine on the Lyme to Axminster branch line. Joan recalls her father being “a very unusual man”. A country boy at heart, he left school aged 12/13 and once told her that all the knowledge that he had gained from his many pastimes and pursuits he had learned from books. Percy encouraged his children to be active and was especially keen that they should become musical.
His mother May, a beautiful woman who died tragically young at 48, read music and played the cello. Percy had a few other hobbies including high powered telescopes, playing the concertina, mouth organ and other instruments and he also liked top-of-the range motorcycles. He always had a camera in his hand and developed his own pictures and specialised in stereo glass slides and the viewing equipment which was in 3D even at that early time. He developed many of his pictures in the kitchen at Belvedere, the family home which he designed. Percy took early retirement in 1948 because of heart trouble. He sold Belvedere and got a caravan in Devon which was transported to Les Feltham’s field in Haye Lane most summers. When Percy got older he moved to to Sheila and Sam’s house in Mill Green Court where Mrs Wheeler looked after him in a little garden flat. He died in 1978, aged 88. For those followers of Ken Gollop’s ‘Under Shady Tree’ photographic shows ‘Bird’s Eye View’ will be compulsive viewing. ‘Bird’s Eye View’, Woodmead Halls, February 10, 2.30pm
The Woodmead Halls - Lyme’s No 1 community venue
are pleased to host BIRD’S EYE VIEW ON SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 10th 2019 - doors open 2pm ADMISSION £3 including free tea, coffee and biscuits All proceeds to The Alzheimers Society
PERCY’S youngest daughter Joan pictured enjoying an ice cream from the mobile seller on the seafront
A TRANQUIL photo of the harbour before there were so many moorings
THE pleasure boats are laid up for the winter at the Cobb
SAND sports on regatta day always attracted a large crowd
TRAFFIC congestion is nothing new in Broad Street - but no double decker buses
To book call 07856 630975
● Ballet, yoga & pilates classes
● Short mat bowls
● Children’s parties with bouncy castle
VISITORS arriving at Lyme Regis Station, having travelled from Axminster on Puffin’ Billy
EARLY caravans on Monmouth Beach
LOADING up the cases on Puffin’ Billy
- Lyme’s most popular community venue
WOODMEAD HALLS
THE railways were Percy’s great passion and he is seen here on the footplate of an old steam engine as a young man
● Wedding receptions & family parties ● Stage Shows & Dances ● Presentations & lectures with wi-fi ● Superb kitchen and bar facilities
THIS is how many local people will remember Percy, pictured with a book, ‘Sky And Stars’, one of his great interests
LOOKING up Monmouth Street towards the church with Symes Stores (now the Italia restaurant) on the right
VIEWS OF OLD LYME (circa 1930s-1950s) AS SEEN THROUGH THE LENS OF THE AMAZING PERCY BIRD
PERCY’S grandson Rob Wheeler who painstakingly has copied around 800 photos
PERCY in action with one of his cameras
PERCY pictured with his sons - Clifford, Charlie, Bill and Jack - all immaculately attired, on Granny’s Teeth at the Cobb
14 Friday, February 1 2019
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A four-page LymeOnline supplement
BIRD’S EYE VIEW A collection of unseen photographs of Lyme Regis 1930s-1950s by photographic enthusiast Percy Bird Woodmead Halls - Sunday February 10
PERCY and the steam train he drove between Exeter and Waterloo
PERCY playing one of his many concertinas
PERCY and his wife May pictured in Lym Close
PERCY preparing one of his telescopes at Belverdere
RICHARD AUSTIN AWARD WINNING PHOTOGRAPHY
richardaustinimages.com
PERCY on one of his treasured motorbikes
PERCY with possessions that fascinated him
PERCY pictured with the cello played by his mother
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Brothers raise £200 towards Lunge total pumps and emergency aid around the LYME Regis brothers Joshua and Around the Tree event in December. Jacob Denning have come up trumps The Rotary Club’s next event will world to those affected by natural disagain, raising £400 in sponsorship be its annual soup and ploughman’s asters and conflict. for taking part in the Lyme Lunge. lunch on Monday, February 4. Tickets cost £10 for vegetarian soup The boys (pictured left) - both reguThe event will be held from 12noon lar supporters of local events and at the Alexandra Hotel in aid of Water followed by a ploughman’s lunch and fundraisers - took part in the New Survival Box, a Rotary charity based coffee, available from any local RotarYear’s Day dip in the sea to celebrate in Somerset which sends water ians. Joshua’s 15th birthday and recently handed over their sponsorship to organisers from the Rotary Club of Lyme Regis. The Rotary Club raised £2,834.89 for Dorset County Hospital’s Cancer Appeal through collections on the day of the event - thought to be the busiest ever New Year’s Day in Lyme with sponsorship to add to the total. Organisers said they were extremely grateful for the donation from Joshua and Jacob, and would appreciate any further outstanding sponsorLOCAL floral designer Sarah Broom demonship or donations. Rotarians have also strated for members of Uplyme & Lyme AWARD-WINNING local photographer Richard just donated £1,500 Regis Horticultural Society at their January Austin will give a talk called ‘Hold The Front to Julia’s House Chil- meeting, showing them how to put together Page’ on Thursday, February 7th. dren’s Hospice folRichard will cover his successful career as a two creative flower arrangements for the lowing successful press photographer in the talk, organised by the street collections in winter and spring seasons. Friends of Lyme Regis Museum. The winter design (pictured above) used a Lyme Regis and The event will be held in the Woodmead Halls Charmouth over the clay tile to interpret ‘The Potting Shed’, one on Thursday, February 7th at 2.30pm. Entry costs £2 for Friends of Lyme Regis MuChristmas period, as of the themes for this year’s horticultural soseum and £3 for non-members. well as at their Carols ciety summer show in July.
Seasonal floral demo Top press photographer to give talk on career
NEWS FROM CITIZENS ADVICE CITIZENS Advice is continuing to run two sessions a week in Lyme Regis which anyone is welcome to attend, even if they do not have an appointment. These are held on Mondays between 10am and 12noon at the medical centre in Uplyme Road, DT7 3LS, and on Wednesdays from 10am to 3pm at St Michael's Business Centre, DT7 3DB, in the centre of the town. The advice that is provided is always free, confidential and impartial. Advice sessions are also held every weekday between 10am and 3pm at the offices of Citizens Advice in South Street, Bridport, DT6 3NY. There is in addition the facility to 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. Another part of the work undertaken by Citizens Advice is to campaign, both locally and nationally, to try and fix some of the underlying causes of common problems that people face and significant successes have been achieved in recent months. One of these was persuading the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) to take action to tackle the “loyalty penalty” suffered by millions of consumers. Research undertaken by Citizens Advice in five major markets – home insurance, mortgages, savings, mobile and broadband – showed that around 80 per cent of people are paying significantly more if they remain with their existing supplier. Andrea Coscelli, the chief executive of the CMA, said that it agreed with what Citizens Advice had found and that loyal customers were being charged more by the “inertia pricing” tactics operated by many companies. As a result it is recommending tough action to try and end this practice, including in some cases the introduction of price caps. For some time Citizens Advice has been raising serious concerns about Universal Credit, the new benefits system which is re-
placing six meanstested benefits and merging them into one payment, and during January changes in the way it is to be implemented were announced by the Work and Pensions Secretary, Amber Rudd. Gillian Guy, chief executive of Citizens Advice, said: “Universal Credit has to work in practice as well as in theory. We welcome any move to make it a more flexible system that can be adapted to suit the way people live their lives. “But to really get to grips with the problems of Universal Credit, the Government will need to go further. This means investing more in the benefit so people have enough to live on and do not have to wait five weeks for a first payment, while also making sure it is paid in a way that works for people's individual circumstances. “Universal Credit must work for everyone, which is why we will continue to monitor its impact on the people who come to us for help.” Locally, Citizens Advice has pressed for continued funding of post offices because of worries about the impact, particularly on elderly people living in rural areas, of so many banks closing. Lyme Regis has been without a bank since the middle of 2017 and post offices can offer most customers access to banking services. A survey has found that people in rural areas are more likely than those living in towns and cities to depend on their local post office and for many of them they are also important for other key services, such as collecting pensions and other state benefits and for obtaining their essential shopping. For people living some distance from their nearest chemist, post offices are increasingly being used too as a collection point for prescriptions.
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MUSIC | THEATRE | WHAT’S ON | COMPETITIONS
Country band to lead the Sunday Sessions
FOLLOWING a popular Facebook competition, South West band Square One has won a headline slot at the regular Sunday Sessions at the Marine Theatre in Lyme Regis. The Sunday Sessions is a free monthly music event, headlined by one act. Guest musicians are welcome to come on the day and have a turn, creating a relaxed Sunday atmosphere, often with six or seven acts on the bill. Previous headliners have included Robbie McIntosh, Jess Upton, Declan Duffy, and Street & Matthews. Square One plays country fuelled southern having forged their sound and influences to create stomping rootsy riffs and catchy songs. Their live shows are energetic and powerful, bringing an all-American party to this side of the Atlantic. Inspired by artists like Luke Bryan and Jason Aldean, alongside classic rock music they grew up listening to, Square One’s sound will get the most troubled of feet moving. Local cellist Mischa Jardine will also be performing. The Sunday Sessions will be held in the Marine Theatre on Sunday, February 10 from 5pm. Entry is free and there are no tickets.
The South visit Lyme on UK tour
TO celebrate their 10th anniversary and 30 years since The Beautiful South released ‘Song For Whoever’, The South are back this spring with a UK tour playing shows up and down the whole of the country. The South are an impressive nine-piece band who feature former members of The Beautiful South, including singer Alison Wheeler and lifelong sax player Gaz Birtles. Since Dave Hemingway, the original singer, left the group at the end of 2016, Gaz has moved across to front the band with Alison and taken on vocal duties. They play the songs made famous by The Beautiful South and bring back the full flavour and arrangements with this exciting live band. After a successful year of touring the theatres and festivals of the UK, The South are keeping alive all those timeless songs – the
number one singe ‘A Little Time’, ‘Perfect 10’, ‘Rotterdam’, ‘Song For Whoever’, ‘Old Red Eyes Is Back’, ‘Good as Gold’, ‘Don’t Marry Her’ plus many more singles and album tracks, as well as a few choice South originals. All performed again live, these songs span an impressive 20 year career starting way back in 1989!
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
The South will be appearing at the Marine Theatre in Lyme Regis on Friday, March 22 with the bar opening at 7pm for an 8pm start. Early bird tickets are £22, or £25 for regular advance tickets and £28 on the door, with 10 per cent off for Theatre Friends. To book, call 011297 442138 or visit the website www.marinetheatre.com
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MUSIC | THEATRE | WHAT’S ON | COMPETITIONS
Printmaking at the Town Mill What’s on...
AS anyone who’s ever tried it knows, printmaking is a highly skillful artform that offers its practitioners numerous ways of working, from the exceedingly detailed and time consuming to the immediate and serendipitous. And whichever process is used, from monotypes to etchings, the resulting image will be very distinct from what drawing or painting alone can achieve. At the Town Mill’s Malthouse and Courtyard Galleries in Lyme Regis, visitors will be able to marvel at the whole gamut of printmaking techniques, as more than 50 both emerging and well-established printmakers from the South West - many from Exeter’s Double Elephant Print Workshop take part in the fourth Printmakers Open. This special showcase will be open daily from between 10.30am and 4.30pm from February 7 to 27. Admission is free and further details can be found on the website
Friday, February 1
Friday @ The Pilot The Pilot Boat, 9pm Weekly live music nights at the Pilot Boat, this week with Elijah Wolf.
Saturday, February 2
Lyme Regis/St George’s Twinning Association Coffee Morning, Lyme Regis Baptist Church, 10am Tea, coffee, homemade cakes and a raffle in aid of the Lyme Regis/St George’s Twinning Association. Live DJs @ SWIM SWIM, 8pm Resident DJs Tom Juno, James Baker & Friends play every Saturday night and Sunday afternoon at SWIM on Marine Parade.
Sunday, February 3
www.townmillarts.co.uk. Printmaking workshops and courses are available at the Double Elephant in Exeter with full details available at www.doubleelephant.org.uk
This month at the Marine Catch up with Lyme’s Little Theatre by the Sea
HAVE you noticed the very beautiful stained glass art deco canopy that hangs over the archway leading up to the theatre? It would have been installed around 1930; there’s something very special about that betweenthe-wars era when women were on the march for equal rights in stark contrast with the incredible elegance and glamour that epitomises the era. I mention this because a local family has just donated two huge bags of original 1930 evening wear. I had a quick rummage and found a beautiful black and gold lace dress that I could just see myself in as I waft from one Champagne party to the next. Mind you if the ladies from the TIC were involved, it would most likely be a bottle or two of prosecco at the Pilot Boat’s ‘Fizzy Fridays’. Anyway, have you been suffering from the January blues? Apparently the two middle weekends are the worst with ‘Blue Monday’ being the biggest hit on our well-being as we struggle to make ends meet before the January payday. But one thing we are definitely not at the Marine is blue; we’ve had an excellent month of entertainment with our regular slot of the hilarious Lyme Regis Comedy Club starring headliner Stuart Goldsmith who had everyone in stitches. Mind you, host Tom Glover was equally hysterical, his comments on Chard getting the biggest laugh. No offence intended. The next Comedy Club is on Friday, February 22 with headliner Carl Donelly, so even if you’re over the January blues by then you will still need a laugh if only to escape the political tragedy that is currently unfolding, and if you’re looking for some theatre, we have West End actor Mark Farrelly performing in ‘Quentin Crisp: Naked Hope’ on February 21. In fact you might just want to take a look at our February schedule because we’ve added
stuff. There’s the brilliant David Ford performing on Saturday, February 8 and I’m afraid if you haven’t bought your Fleetwood Bac tickets you’ve missed out. But for all you Lady Gaga and Bradley Cooper fans, we are showing ‘A Star is Born’ Friday, February 15. That’s the day after Valentine’s… just giving you the heads-up. Do you still have your Christmas tree languishing at the back of your house? I was hoping one of our lovely volunteers would offer to take ours so I dragged it outside and left it near the bin store, but each morning I arrived it was still there, and each night when I left it sat there looking very sorry for itself. That was until our brilliant tech and all round good egg Pete Hackett noticed the equally good eggs Virgil and John taking down the town trees. Within minutes I was dragging our Nordic spruce down the road to join the rest. I took a trip over to Poole to join the Youth Performance Partnership Fund Bid group. Bit of a mouthful I know but these incredibly motivated people are trying to source funding to give access to all children so they can take part in every aspect of theatre production. The meeting was just off Poole Quay that is always a treat to visit especially when Sunseeker have one of their luxury yachts moored in the harbour. I can dream. A final thought on one of those ‘national’ days we have to endure, did you hug anyone on ‘National Hug Day’? It is of course an American import and I’m not entirely sure random hugging of strangers is even legal and with Valentine’s approaching, I just hope things don’t get out of hand.
Sophia Moseley,
Theatre Manager
Sunday Craft Market The Pilot Boat, 10am A weekly Sunday craft market at the Pilot Boat Inn, Lyme Regis. Call 01297 443157 to book a stall. Live DJs @ SWIM SWIM, 12noon Resident DJs Tom Juno, James Baker & Friends play every Saturday night and Sunday afternoon at SWIM on Marine Parade. Sequence Dancing Woodmead Halls, 8pm Lyme Regis Sequence Dancing Club meets every Sunday at 7.45pm for an 8pm start. The friendly, welcoming group enjoys popular sequence dances and visitors are welcome.
Monday, February 4
Rotary Club Soup & Ploughman’s Lunch Alexandra Hotel, 12noon The Rotary Club of Lyme Regis’ annual soup and ploughman’s lunch in aid of Water Survival Box. Tickets cost £10 for vegetarian soup followed by a ploughman’s lunch and coffee, available from any local Rotarians. Axminster & Lyme Cancer Support Drop-In Lyme Regis Football Club, 2pm Free drop-in session in support of local people living through cancer. Come along for a supportive chat, meet the team and hear about activities and therapies available. Screening: Met Opera’s ‘Carmen’ Marine Theatre, 4.55pm Don’t miss this revival of Sir Richard Eyre’s dynamic production. Encore Screening, duration: 201 minutes including interval. Tickets £15 for adults or £5 for under 18s – to book call 01297 442138 or visit www.marinetheatre.com. Bar opens at 4.55pm for 5.55pm start. 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, February 5
Lyme Regis Society Coffee Morning Alexandra Hotel Chapel, 10.30am An opportunity to meet with other members of The Lyme Regis Society, chat, buy homemade cakes to eat there or take home. LRTC Planning Committee Guildhall, 7pm Council meetings are open to the public (except for items under Exempt Business) and members of the public can speak for three minutes each at the beginning of each meeting on items relating to the agenda. For agendas see www.lymeregistowncouncil.gov.uk
Thursday, February 7
Talk: ‘Hold The Front Page’ Woodmead Halls, 2.30pm A talk by award-winning local photographer Richard Austin. The talk will be based on Richard’s 35 years’ experience as a press photographer. Entry is £2 for the Friends of Lyme Regis Museum and £3 for nonmembers. Live Music @ SWIM SWIM, 7.30pm Live music every Thursday night at SWIM on Marine Parade, this week with Harvey Causley playing acoustic pop. 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!
Send your diary dates to francesca@lyme-online.co.uk www.lyme-online.co.uk/events
Friday, February 8
Friday @ The Pilot The Pilot Boat, 9pm Weekly live music nights at the Pilot Boat.
Saturday, February 9
Live Music: David Ford Marine Theatre, 6.30pm With four critically-acclaimed studio albums and a live show described by the British music press as “unmissable,” David Ford is essential listening. Tickets £12 in advance or £14.50 on the door - call 01297 442138 or visit www.marinetheatre.com. Bar opens 6:30pm for 7.30pm start. Live DJs @ SWIM SWIM, 8pm Resident DJs Tom Juno, James Baker & Friends play every Saturday night and Sunday afternoon at SWIM on Marine Parade. Live Music @ The Nag’s Head The Nag’s Head, 9pm Regular live music nights at The Nag's Head in Lyme Regis, this week featuring acoustic covers duo Gut & Steel.
Sunday, February 10
Sunday Craft Market The Pilot Boat, 10am A weekly Sunday craft market at the Pilot Boat Inn, Lyme Regis. Call 01297 443157 to book a stall. Live DJs @ SWIM SWIM, 12noon Resident DJs Tom Juno, James Baker & Friends play every Saturday night and Sunday afternoon at SWIM on Marine Parade. Talk: Bird’s Eye View Woodmead Halls, 2.30pm View previously unseen photo of Lyme Regis taken in the 1930s-50s by resident Percy Bird, with commentary by Ken Gollop and Richard Austin. Entry £3 in aid of the Alzheimer’s Society. 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.
Wednesday, February 13
LRTC Full Council Guildhall, 7pm Council meetings are open to the public (except for items under Exempt Business) and members of the public can speak for three minutes each at the beginning of each meeting on items relating to the agenda. For agendas see www.lymeregistowncouncil.gov.uk Uplyme Parish Council Uplyme Village Hall, 7.15pm The monthly meeting of Uplyme Parish Council. Council meetings are open to the public and start with an Open Forum where members of the public can ask questions or make observations. For agenda see https://uplymeparishcouncil.org/
Thursday, February 14
Live Music @ SWIM SWIM, 7.30pm Live music every Thursday night at SWIM on Marine Parade, this week a Valentine's Day special with Andy Quick playing indie and rock. 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!
Friday, February 15
Friday @ The Pilot The Pilot Boat, 9pm Weekly live music nights at the Pilot Boat.
Saturday, February 16
Live Music: Streisand Marine Theatre, 6.30pm The iconic sound of a legend in music and film is brought to life in this brand new production touring the UK. Tickets £17 in advance or £21 on the door call 01297 442138 or visit www.marinetheatre.com. Bar opens 6.30pm for 7.30pm start. Live DJs @ SWIM SWIM, 8pm Resident DJs Tom Juno, James Baker & Friends play every Saturday night and Sunday afternoon at SWIM on Marine Parade.
18 Friday, February 1 2019 ■ REGARDING the recent debate on allowing dogs onto Lyme Regis beach, what is the point in spending tens of millions of pounds on a world class beach and ancillary water treatment works just to let it become a dog toilet? I have read that some folk think the problem can be solved by insisting the creatures are kept on a lead. This summer, my family and I were enjoying the lovely view from our rented beach hut, when a dog owner walked past with a large dog on a lead which stopped in front of us to evacuate its rear end leaving a watery mess all over the concrete walk way. Credit to the owner that they got a bucket of water to sluice it onto the sand, but considering there were several toddlers yards away fastidiously putting pebbles in their mouths as they are want to do, rather shows that the problem is not solved by leads or plastic doggy bags. I think the time has come to ban dogs in their entirety from both the beach and adjacent access roads; they are nothing but a nuisance and a hazard. Richard Hendrik, Lyme Regis ■ WE are new (seven weeks) residents of Lyme Regis and the sheer number of dogs and their consequences is quite off-putting. As we get more familiar with the local walks along the beach and footpaths, it is clear early on that enforceable rules are needed for dogs and their owners that use Lyme Regis for their pleasure. Moreover, a council audit is needed in terms of dogs on the beaches and walkways, public hygiene and overall safety of all people wanting to use the beaches and walkways throughout the year. Name and address supplied ■ The Doggy Dilemma: A Poem There are lots of beaches in lovely Lyme, For dogs to romp and play on, Charmouth, Monmouth and Church beach are all quite devine. So, why can we not have just one beach, With its soft French golden sand, For the children to romp and play on, And lovers to stroll hand in hand? C. L. Anderson Silver Street, Lyme Regis
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Dogs on the beach: the debate continues These letters were sent to LymeOnline following reports that a child was bitten by a dog on the beach in December, and Lyme Regis Town Council’s subsequent discussion about a review of policies. To catch up with the debate, visit www.lyme-online.co.uk ■ I AM a regular visitor in Lyme Regis, and I'm also a big fan of dogs! However, I was taken by surprise to see the uncontrolled behaviour of dogs on the local sandy beach in Lyme. The owners obviously didn't really care what their dogs were doing and clearly nobody paid attention to the sign reading 'All dogs must be kept on leads'. As regular swimmers we didn't feel comfortable leaving our belongings on the beach with dogs running around urinating and making a mess.
I know there are two other beaches in Lyme that are much better suited for dogs for run free (which they should, of course!), so I don't know why the owners always choose the main beach which is more suited for families, children and swimmers. I love dogs and think they should run free, but in a better suited area. I hope this letter will help Lyme dog owners keep their dogs on leads! Xan Bichindaritz (by email)
■ I HAVE been surprised by the overwhelming amount of dogs on the beach and nearby surrounding areas. While quite new to the area, I have never seen so many dogs on mass in such a fairly small area. Dogs run bounding up and it is frightening for those of us not so familiar with dogs and prefer not to be. Owners seem confident their dogs won’t bite, but we know that not necessarily to be true. Dodging dog mess and lively, sometimes wet dogs is not a lot of fun when out on a relaxing walk to
take in the beauty of Lyme. Ideally, specific areas are needed for dogs and their owners in order that we can all enjoy this pretty part of Dorset and not feel threatened. Name and address withheld Please note, LymeOnline is happy to print letters both for and against dogs on the beach and we have included all letters we have received on the subject over the past two weeks on this page. For more letters both for and against dogs on the beach, which have featured in previous issues of this newspaper, visit our website lyme-online.co.uk/readers-letters
■ LOOSE dogs on the beach is a definite no. I have two dogs myself and own a beach hut. Last year, when I was in my beach hut with my dogs, a dog came running off the beach into my beach hut. This was a very tricky situation to be in as my dogs hate other canines and a fight began. I was on my own and extremely nervous. Since this has happened I don’t feel like sitting in there in case this occurs again. Loose dogs mess on the beach whilst there owners are talking and couldn’t care less as we’ve stood and watched them. ■ I DO not think that dogs should be allowed on Lyme beach. Please allow us one tiny teeny little space free of dogs. There are now so many dogs around they are becoming a major nuisance. I’m fed up with the arrogance of dog owners who seem to think that their dog should have equal rights with people. I see dogs that are allowed on cafe seats and tables, they’re a nuisance in the pubs and their constant barking spoils a pleasant day at the beach. Although most dog poo gets picked up, a certain amount of residue gets left behind which is potentially harmful and disgusting and I certainly don’t want to be sitting on sand that some dog has just used as a toilet. We would be horrified if a child
Also, sitting having a coffee last week outside of Largigi, a dog off the lead came up to one of the tables and peed up them. This is a total disgrace by the dog owner. When a member of the public told him ‘You should have your dog on a lead’, he asked ‘Where’s the signs to say so?’ He did have a point, where are they? Little, piddly yellow signs on the floor. And to mention dog mess, it’s a disgrace and I think a lot to do with locals. Please, please something needs sorting. Paula Oldham (by email) was allowed to poo on the beach so why allow a dog to? And don’t even get me started on those left-behind bags full of dog poo. Please keep dogs off our lovely beach. Anne Burrows (by email) ■ IT’S high time there was a total ban on all dogs being allowed on any beach in Lyme Regis, and that includes the church grounds, where they are regularly let off their leads and there is no attempt to pick up their animals mess. Let’s hope WDDC introduce this long-awaited ban to prevent dogs from having open access to our valued beaches and burial ground. It's long overdue as this town has become an overwhelming magnet from visiting dog owners. Christopher Davies (by email)
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Watch all the Six Nations rugby matches at The Pilot Saturday 2 February 14.15 Scotland v Italy Saturday 2 February, 16:45 Ireland v England Saturday 9 February 14.15 Scotland v Ireland Saturday 9 February16.45 Italy v Wales Sunday 10 February 15.00 England v France Saturday 23 February 14.15 France v Scotland Saturday 23 February 16.45 Wales v England
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20 Friday, February 1 2019
FLASHBACKS with Richard Austin
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Tales from behind the lens of our award-winning photographer
FORMER Prime Minister Tony Blair is probably not as adored by the nation as he once was, but I must admit it was a first for me when Western Morning News editor Barrie Williams told me in the morning we had an exclusive 15-minute interview and pictures with the PM. We were covering the PM’s visit to Cornwall where he was being bombarded with all things rural, especially from the farming community. I was staying at the hotel being used by the media because it was right opposite the PM’s hotel. It was around midnight when someone shouted into the bar that the Irish PM Bertie Ahern was flying in for emergency talks with Tony Blair. There was a mad rush to get cameras together and across the road to the hotel. It was a disaster for most of the snappers because the spot where we were going to photograph the two PM’s was right next to the indoor swimming pool, and those who had put their cameras and lenses in the boot of their car resulting in cold cameras were instantly covered in condensation rendering them totally useless. I was one of just a couple of snappers who had kept their kit by my side in the bar. Panic over as Bertie Ahern left the hotel. The next morning three of us had an interview with the PM at 8am; editor Barrie Williams, news editor Jason Clarke and myself, along with Alastair Campbell who was asked by the PM to “sort out a cup of tea please, Alastair”. I was the only one who didn’t get a cuppa with the British PM but I was surprised when he put his leather soled feet on the table. Good job my nan wasn’t there, he would have got a clip around the ear and told to get his feet off the table!
Councillors accused of undermining decision A LYME Regis councillor has accused his colleagues of undermining the town council, after they spoke in favour of the controversial pedestrian crossing at a county council meeting. In December, the town council formally retracted its support for the puffin crossing in Broad Street but some members who disagreed - Councillors Steve Miller, Richard Doney and Cheryl Reynolds - attended a Dorset County Council Cabinet meeting to speak in favour of the proposal, which was subsequently approved. Speaking at this week’s meeting of the town’s Strategy & Finance Committee, Councillor Derek Hallett questioned whether Councillor Miller should be chairing the meeting, saying he had undermined the council and adding: “I’m not sure we can trust you.” Councillor Miller replied: “I exercised my democratic right to go to Dorset County Council and did not undermine this council in any way, shape or form.” Councillor Hallett raised the issue again later in the meeting when discussing the future of the Tourist Information Centre (see report on page 7). He said: “It doesn’t matter what this council decides, you’ll still have one or two go behind our backs and put a different position forward.” Councillor Miller replied: “That’s an uncalled for remark.” Councillor Hallett: “No it’s not, it’s quite called for.”
Friday, February 1 2019 21
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ITEMS FOR SALE / WANTED STANDALONE MIRROR, light pine, as new, £48 - 07768 901 443. BREAD BIN, glazed earthenware bread crock, large, bargain at £40 - 01297 445243. LOFT ladder, aluminium, £20 - 01297 445243. MIRA Excel Thermostatic Shower Mixer, used but in good condition, £25 - 01297 445243. GUTTERING, drainpipes and fixings, black plastic, large quantity, £25 - 01297 445243. HOT PLATE, 60cm x 20cm, cordless Giles & Posner, new in box, £20 - 01297 445243. MIRROR, contemporary natural solid oak frame wall mirror, brand new, size 1,800mm x 600mm, suitable for hall, sitting room, restaurant or modern bar, £70 ono - 07954 038 297. YAMAHA alto saxophone, little used, very good condition, bargain at £495 - 01297 442198. RECLINER chair, beige fabric, very comfortable, great condition, £55 - 01297 489414. NINTENDO Wii Fit Plus pack, black in excellent condition, little use, still boxed, £35 - 01297 444321 or 07815 082 043. NINTENDO Wii remote controller with Motion Plus, minimum use and still boxed, £10 - 01297 444321 or 07815 082 043. ELECTOLUX petrol hedge trimmer, model HG18, 49cm stainless steel blade, In v.g.c, £20 01297 444321 or 07815 082 043.
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LymeOnline Sport
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football
Reserves keep pressure in league leaders By PHILIP EVANS
philip@lyme-online.co.uk ANOTHER disciplined and professional performance by Lyme Regis Reserves in a 3-1 win over Sampford Peverell kept the pressure on the front runners in the Devon & Exeter League Division Four, and keeps the Seasiders’ promotion hopes very
much alive. Lyme’s second string stay in third place on goal difference, but they are still ten points behind leaders Elmore 2nds, having played one more game. Lyme went ahead in the first-half through a Sam Bevis volley in worsening weather conditions. They were pegged back in their own half soon after and conceded
an unnecessary free kick on the edge of the box which the home team captain rifled into the top of the net. But Lyme stuck to their task and regained the lead at the end of the first half when Daley Holmes converted from a corner. They then rounded off the scoreline in the second half with another
Sam Bevis goal. Chris Herbst continued his good form while getting back to full-fitness and will be looking to regain his first team place. Elmore 2nds have opened up a five-point lead at the top of Division Four and still have a game in hand over second placed Alphington 3rds. Lyme trail the Exeter side
dering a couple of great chances, including hitting the post. The only goal of the game came in bizarre circumstances. The Lyme keeper, Jim Larcombe, rushed out of his goal to block a Winsham winger’s run at the goal and brought down the man on the edge of the box with three defenders behind him. The referee then offered Larcombe a compromise - take a red card and Winsham would be given a free-kick, or stay on the pitch
with the home side getting a penalty and no card. Larcombe settled for the penalty which Winsham duly converted. After that, a number of poor tackles on the Lyme players went unpunished. Afterwards, joint manager Rob Larcombe commented: “I’m not blaming the referee for our loss as we didn’t take our chances but the penalty was an unbelievable decision and is a sore point.” The defeat saw the Rovers drop to fourth place in Division Three, five points behind leaders, Merriott Dynamos, but having played one more game.
Ref lets keeper decide if it’s a penalty! LYME Regis Rovers’ push for promotion from Perry Street Division Three suffered a set-back when they lost 1-0 at Winsham to a bizarre penalty decision. This was a disappointing result in a game that they shaded throughout and could have easily scored three or four had they taken their chances. The Rovers started with the wind behind them in difficult conditions on a wet and bumpy pitch and they struggled to get the ball down ef-
fectively. Skipper Matt Thomas, dropping into the centre half position, dealt well with the Winsham attacks. A few decisions started to go against Lyme and as the game wore on they had very few favours from the referee. In the second half with the wind against them the Rovers kept pushing forward with Darius Pickering missing and open goal, then Winsham making a point-blank save and Freddie Andrews squan-
skittles
Marksmen take top spot MARKSMEN and No Hopers are still making the running in the Men’s Division One of Lyme Regis Skittles League with 14 points each with Marksmen occupying the top spot on their Beer Leg Points. British Legion have been knocked of the top spot in men’s Division Two with the lead being taken by Clueless closely followed by Rousdon Rebels. Wootton Wobblers have a four-point
golf
Cullen and Dawe’s better ball victory By Richard Jackman THE four-ball better ball competition at Lyme Regis Golf Club saw some familiar faces on the leaderboard as a close result saw Neale Cullen and Andrew Dawe put in a steady overall performance to finish on top with 42 points. Father and son Roger and George Seed just took second place on countback from Scott Love and Jon Ebdon, both with 41 points. The ladies’ three-ball waltzing stableford, where the best score counts on the first hole, the two best on the second and all three on the third, before starting the cycle again, was comfortably won by Anne Humphreys, Jean Jolley and Cyndy Mudford with a score of 67 points. In competitive form, particularly on some of the holes, were Jane Andrews, Geraldine Wickes and Marilyn Wilson as they came second on 64 points.
lead at the top of the Ladies’ Division. Results week-ending January 26 Ladies Hot Gossips 305 (+BL) v Pin Pals 263; La Crème 305 v Generations 296 (+BL);Smashers (+BL) bt Rollercoasters (game given);Wootton Wobblers 288 v Skittso’s 275 (BL Drawn). High Scores: Judy Dale 58; Terry Holmes 57 Men’s British Legion 319 (+BL) v Skittle Me Timbers 356; Clueless 355 (+BL) v Alleytwits 336; Trappers 343 v Anthill Mob 350 (+BL); Flyers 305 v Young Guns 325 (+BL); No Hopers 356 (+BL) v Marksmen 357; President’s Men 338 (+BL) v Miscellaneous 339; Roadrunners 362 v Wreckers 314 (+BL); Rousdon Rebels 369 v Shakers 341 (+BL). High Scores: Neil Bowditch 70; Paul Grinter 70; John Fry 69 Monday February 4 2019 Ladies Doug Clark Cup Smashers v Hot Gossips (at Wootton Club); La Crème v Generations (at the George). Wednesday February 6 2019 Men’s Palmer Cup Quarter-Final Roadrunners v Wreckers (at the George. Thursday February 7 2019 Ladies Doug Clark Cup
Rollercoasters v Skittso’s (at the George) Friday February 8 2019 Men’s Palmer Cup Quarter-Final Marksmen v No Hopers (at the George); Flyers v Clueless (at Wootton Club);Alleytwits v President’s Men (at Rousdon Club). LADIES DIVISION P W/Wobblers 8 Hot Gossips 9 Smashers 8 La Creme 7 Skittso’s 8 Generations 8 Rollercoasters 9 Pin Pals 9
W 7 6 5 5 4 3 1 1
D 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
L 0 3 3 2 4 5 8 8
PtsB/L 16 12 12 6 10 8 10 7 8 11 6 11 2 8 2 3
MEN’S DIVISION ONE Marksmen No Hopers Anthill Mob Roadrunners Flyers Young Guns Trappers Wreckers
9 8 9 8 9 9 9 9
7 7 6 4 3 3 3 2
0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
2 1 3 4 6 6 6 7
14 14 12 8 6 6 6 4
11 8 12 7 10 10 2 10
14 14 12 8 8 8 4 4
10 4 12 12 12 10 8 4
by five points but have Halwill and Teignmouth hot on their tails, Halwill having two games in hand. Tomorrow (Saturday) the Reserves travel to bottom side Pinhoe where three points will be essential to mantain their position in the table. Devon & Exeter Premier P W D L F A Gd 17 13 2 2 63 18 45 15 12 2 1 52 11 41 17 11 3 3 67 27 40 15 10 4 1 60 14 46 17 9 2 6 46 30 16 18 8 3 7 38 37 1 15 7 2 6 32 39 -7 15 7 1 6 36 31 5 16 6 3 7 29 35 -6 17 6 2 8 36 37 -1 15 5 1 9 22 40 -18 14 4 1 15 15 48-33 19 4 0 12 36 59-23 16 3 1 12 18 71-53 18 2 2 14 22 75 -53
Pts 41 38 36 34 29 27 23 22 21 20 17 13 12 10 8
Devon & Exeter Division Four Elmore 2nds 13 12 0 1 58 13 45 Alphington 3rds 14 10 1 1 45 22 23 Lyme Regis Reserves 14 8 3 1 45 24 24 Halwill 2nds 12 8 2 2 47 27 20 Teignmouth 2nds 15 8 2 5 46 40 6 Hemyock 16 6 2 8 38 41 -3 University of Exeter 5th12 6 1 5 30 27 3 Feniton 2nds 14 4 4 6 20 37 -17 Sampford Peverell 15 3 4 8 17 36 -19 St Martin’s 2nds 16 4 0 12 33 64 -31 Winkleigh 11 3 2 6 20 28 -8 Millwey Rise 15 2 3 10 17 38 -15 Pinhoe 11 3 0 8 8 41 -28
36 31 26 26 26 20 19 16 13 12 11 9 9
Exwick Villa Newtown Colyton Cronies Lyme Regis Upottery Clyst Valley Witheridge 2nds Beer Albion Feniton Heavitree United Exmouth Town 2nds Seaton Town Okehampton Argyle Topsham Town
SUNDAY LUNCH CLUB Take the stress out of Sundays!
Regular Sunday lunches at Lyme Regis Football Club Sunday, February 24th 12.30pm for 1pm Two courses £8.50, children’s portion £4 Plus a free draw ticket for a bottle of wine!
MEN’S DIVISION TWO Clueless 9 Rousdon Rebels 9 British Legion 9 Alleytwits 9 Miscellaneous 9 President’s Men 9 Shakers 9 Skittle M Timbers 9
7 7 6 4 4 4 2 2
0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
2 2 3 5 5 5 7 7
BOOK TODAY! To reserve a place call Francesca on 07810 221 420
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LymeOnline Sport
24 Friday, February 1 2019
February 1 2019
LYME Regis Reserves enjoying a good season in the Devon & Exeter League Division Four, have been presented with a new set of kit. Local company Evergreen, based at the Uplyme Road industrial estate, specialists in renewables, electrical work and plumbing, have been keen supporters of the Seasiders since they were founded in 2011. Ian Crabbe, from Evergreen, is pictured with the new kit with players Dominic Rowe (left) and Mark Batey. Mr Crabbe is the son-in-law of former Lyme Regis player Peter Greenwood.
Seasiders fall again to another late goal philip@lyme-online.co.uk WITH the referee's watch ticking into injury time, it looked as though Lyme Regis 1st had held the mighty Cronies to a deserved draw. But not for the first time this season, the Seasiders conceded a late goal to Premiership hopefuls with the Exeter side scoring the winner in injury time. Lyme were anxious to get something out of this game, having conceded three late goals in the last ten minutes of their game two weeks ago at Colyton, also one of the favourites for the Premier title, surrendering a 1-0 lead for 80 minutes to finally lose 3-1 after a late onslaught from the East Devon side. Cronies made their intentions clear right from the starting whistle by going on the attack and Lyme keeper Will Meech was soon in action, thwarting a good scoring chance when he brought off a brave save at the feet of an attacker with the goal beckoning. In-form centre-back Kingsley Wellman found himself in the referee's notebook when he was yellow carded for a shoulder charge from just outside the penalty box, an indication that referee Brian Perryman, a former Lyme
NOW IN THE DEVON & EXETER PREMIER LEAGUE
Saturday, February 2 Lyme Regis 1st v Exwick Villa Kick-off 2.15pm
Another tough game for the Seasiders
New shirt sponsor for Reserves
PHILIP EVANS
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FEATURED GAME manager, was more than aware of the competitive nature of both these sides and was determined not to let things get out of hand. By the end of the game, two more Lyme players ended up in his book. Lyme's best chance came in the 25th minute when a fierce shot from Fred Parsons from 20 yards out skimmed the bar. The game turned in Cronies' favour in the 32nd minute when keeper Will Meech did well to get his hand to a volley from close range but could not prevent the visitors going 1-0 up. Cronies had to chance increase their lead after 37th minutes when Wellman was adjudged to have brought down a player in the box, but the penalty-taker blazed the ball over the bar. Meech was soon in action again pulling off a diving save to tip the ball past the post. Lyme finished the half strongly in their bid for the equaliser with two quick corners and Ben Vine scooping the ball over the bar from close range in the resulting goalmouth melee. Lyme came out after the break in determined fashion and within a minute
Ben Vine who scored Lyme’s goal against Cronies levelled the scoreline when Vine finished off a splendid move, slotting the ball wide of the visiting keeper. Vine also went close when his free-kick was tipped over the bar. As the game progressed Lyme found themselves under continued pressure but defended well as the Cronies' front line staged attack after attack.
With the game going into extra-time, the Lyme defence were caught on the hop and centre back Gary Knight was forced to take out the marauding winger with a slide tackle. From the resulting free-kick, Cronies hammered the ball home and celebrating although they had won the league. Lyme will feel slightly hard done by some of the refereeing decisions, but there was no doubt about the tackle that caused the final free kick, although many thought a yellow card for Knight was harsh. Over 90 minutes Cronies were the better side and deserved their win, but it was another gritty Lyme performance against a top side. The Seasiders stay in fifth place in the Premier Division, but the points gap is now widening with the leading teams. Manager Gerard Hitchcock was pleased with the all-round effort of his side, saying they all "put in a good shift". For me, striker Sam PollardJones was Lyme's star man; his strong running up front caused the Cronies' defence some anxious moments. The shock result in the Premier Division was high-riding Colyton losing 3-2 away to Beer Albion which saw them slip to third place.
FOOTBALL Having played two of the top Devon & Exeter Premier division sides in the last two weeks - losing to late goals in each of the games - Lyme Regis 1st face another daunting fixture this coming weekend when they meet leaders Exwick Villa. The Seasiders put in good performances against Colyton, leading 1-0 until late in the game before the East Devon side banged in three late goals. Lyme also missed out on a deserved point when they went down 2-1 on Saturday at home to the much feared Cronies who scored the winning goal in the first minute of injury time. Tomorrow (Saturday) they will be tested to the extreme again when the welcome Premier leaders Exwick Villa to the Davey Fort (kick-off 2.30 pm). Villa sit on top of the table, three points ahead of Newtown who have two games in hand. Lyme trail in fifth place, 12 points behind the leaders. Although frustrated not to have taken any points from the Colyton and Cronies’ games, manager Gerard Hitchcock is more than pleased with the work rate of his squad and believes they are not a million miles away from competing for Premiership honours in the future. Lyme Regis Reserves maintained their push for promotion from Devon & Exeter Division Four with a 3-1 win over Sampford Peverell on Saturday to stay in third place. Tomorrow they travel to bottom side Pinhoe where three more points should come their way. Lyme Regis Rovers’ bid for promotion from Perry Street League Division Three took a knock when they were beaten 1-0 from a disputed penalty at Winsham, a defeat which saw them drop to fourth place. Tomorrow they are at home to division leaders Merriott Dynamos. Upyme, continuing to struggle in Perry Street Division One, are at home to mid-tablers Ilminster Town Reserves, whilst Charmouth, going great guns in the runners-up spot in Division Two, have a Jack Venn Cup match at home to Crewkerne Rangers Reserves.
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