LymeOnline Digital Edition - March 15 2019

Musical Theatre celebrates 100 years of song!

LRMT ANNIVERSARY SPECIAL PAGE 15

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FOR LYME REGIS, UPLYME & CHARMOUTH ● FORTNIGHTLY ● MARCH 15 2019 ● www.lyme-online.co.uk

HARBOUR INN MARKS 15 YEARS IN BUSINESS PAGE 11

No date for Three Cups development

Kate’s in town!

THE appearance of scaffolding on the front of the former Three Cups Hotel in Lyme Regis has sparked rumours that owners, Palmer’s Brewery, are about to commence the long-awaited redevelopment of the site.

But a spokesman for Palmers has told LymeOnline that the scaffolding has gone up on the Grade II Listed Broad Street building - now closed for three decades to carry out repairs and improve the appearance of the exterior of the historic building, which dates back to 1807.

There is currently no indication when a start will be made on the main development, which will include retail units, private apartments, a restaurant and letting rooms.

FULL REPORT, PAGE 3

Lyme Regis & Charmouth RNLI Guild AGM

OSCAR-winning actress Kate Winslet, pictured as fossil hunter Mary Anning on the Lyme Regis set of ‘Ammonite’ as filming started this week. The film - set to be a box office hit - will also feature Saoirse Ronan and Fiona Shaw. See page 7 for full story and more photos.

Photos by Richard Austin

Medical centres merge

Wednesday, April 3rd, 7.30pm The Lifeboat Station, The Cobb, Lyme Regis All welcome!

DOCTORS’ PRACTICES TO JOIN UNDER NEW CONTRACT

THE two medical practices in Lyme Regis will join forces under a new NHS contract starting from June this year.

Virgin Care has lost the contract to continue running the GP and nursing services at Lyme Regis Medical Centre. Instead, the

FRANCESCA EVANS

francesca@lyme-online.co.uk

medical centre will join forces with Lyme Bay Medical Practice, operating as a single practice under the leadership of local GP Dr Forbes Watson as of June 1.

Dr Watson, who is also chairman of Dorset Clinical Commis-

sioning Group, currently runs Lyme Bay Medical Practice, known locally to many as Kent House.

The decision was revealed last Wednesday evening in a surprise announcement by Bridport doctor Richa Singh, vice-chairman of the West Dorset Primary Care network, addressing the annual

parish meeting at Charmouth.

Following the announcement, a statement from the Dorset Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) said: “Towards the end of 2018 we (NHS Dorset Clinical Commissioning Group) held an event to inform people living in and around Lyme Regis about CONTINUED ON PAGE 2

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LymeOnline

Published by Lyme Regis Media Limited Hyper-local website and fortnightly newspaper serving the communities of Lyme Regis, Uplyme & Charmouth.

Unit 5 Uplyme Business Park, Uplyme Road, Lyme Regis, Dorset DT7 3LS www.lyme-online.co.uk edit@lyme-online.co.uk Facebook: facebook.com/LymeOnlineUK Twitter: twitter.com/LymeOnlineUK Instagram: instagram.com/lymeonline Editor: Francesca Evans francesca@lyme-online.co.uk 07810 221 420 Contributors: Philip Evans philip@lyme-online.co.uk Richard Austin edit@lyme-online.co.uk 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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‘Plans progressing well’ Bowling club lease settled after acrimonious dispute as medical practices set to merge in June CONTINUED FROM FRONT PAGE changes to primary medical care and community health services in Lyme Regis Medical Centre (LRMC). We recognise that a number of people were expecting an update sooner in the year and would like to take the opportunity to thank everyone for their patience.

“From June 1 2019 the Lyme Regis Medical Centre and the Lyme Bay Medical Practice will join together as a single practice, led by Dr Forbes Watson. The intention is for GP and nurse services currently provided at LRMC to continue, in the same building.

“The only difference will be that, instead of being employees of Virgin Care, the doctors and nurses will be employed directly by this single local practice, while the two separate patient lists will become one list registered with this practice.

“NHS Dorset Clinical Commissioning Group, Virgin Care and Dr Watson are working closely to ensure a seamless coming together of services. Staff across LRMC and Lyme Bay Medical Centre will now be working together to shape services going forward following a LRMC staff

event on March 5 2019.

“Plans are progressing well and we are confident that this will result in a smooth transition for patient care.

“The community services provided to patients at both the present Lyme practices and the Charmouth practice have been put out to tender by the Clinical Commissioning Group. We are at the final stages of the procurement process and hope to announce the new provider in early April.

“The new provider will continue to deliver community services out of LRMC and we believe services will be strengthened with both the community and general practice working closely to meet the needs of the local population.”

All patients registered at either of the Lyme Regis practices or Charmouth Medical Practice are invited to find out more about the changes at a drop-in information session on Tuesday, April 9 in the Woodmead Halls from 2pm to 6.30pm.

There will be an opportunity to hear updates and meet both the community and primary care representatives and ask questions.

A LONG an acrimonious dispute between Lyme Regis Town Council and the Bowling Club over car parking spaces on Monmouth Beach has been settled.

In considering the future of their assets on and around Monmouth Beach, the town council decided in November 2016 to increase the lease rent for the bowls clubhouse and bowling green to around £4,000 and to charge a lease rent for the bowling club car park based on 50 per cent of the current income the council receives from its parking on Monmouth Beach, to take effect from this January.

When 35 bowling club members crowded the Guildhall in May last year to object councillors were warned that if they did not lower the “outrageous” charges for the car park the club would close down by 2021.

The council decided in the end to charge the bowling for 12 spaces at the full market value but to negotiate a percentage figure if the club was willing to relinquish use of the car park during agreed months, and was willing to break the lease immediately.

It was also agreed to arrange a meeting between the council and the club, the council to be represented by councillors Brian Larcombe and Graham Turner.

That meeting took place in January with a recommendation to the full council that they would take back 12 spaces in the car park for six months in the off-season for public parking for a fee of £7,020 with the flexibility for the bowling club to fit in as many vehicles as it

wanted in the car park. This recommendation was adopted at the council’s February meeting.

In a letter attached to the council minutes, bowling club secretary Alan Nabarro said they were grateful, after a long period of the council refusing to meet them, they had now had several meetings with councillors Larcombe and Turner to discuss the issue.

Mr Nabarro said: “Our discussions have been wide ranging examining the role of the club in the town providing healthy exercise and social opportunities for mainly the older people, providing a high level of sporting facility in an iconic setting, bringing people and money to other businesses in the town.”

Dealing with the existing car parking lease, Mr Nabarro reiterated that the park provided 24 spaces and that the club had been charged for at least 25 years on this basis.

He continued: “We have proven that there could only be 11 spaces if designed to standards published as official policy by Dorset County Council. This means, in accordance with the current formula the current rent of the car park should be £3,575 not £7,800 and that we have been overcharged for the 25 years of the current lease. At current levels this adds up to £80,000.

“Lyme Regis Town Council have known about this injustice for at least 12 years. Members of the bowls club and probably the majority of residents believe the defence of this unfair contract was reprehensible.”

Sail the high seas on the ‘ship with wings’ T

HE T/S Pelican of London is part clipper, part pirate ship. A fast sailing ship, the essence of blue water sailing. A Tall Ship, yes. But as handy as they come.

This is a ship with wings, a unique corsair rig and able to challenge vessels twice her size.

Pace and space are what she offers. For comfort and style, she has few equals.

Later next month The Pelican will be offering people the opportunity to sail from Lyme Regis to Barfleur, a voyage that’s being planned in association with the town’s Twinning Association. The Pelican will sail on Thursday, April 25 for the French port and arrive back on the morning of April 30. It’s a great opportunity for a ‘blockade run’ to stock

THE Pelican under sail

up with wine and other goodies. The cost for the five-night voyage is £500 per person and there are places for additional members of trainee crew. Please contact Marcus Dixon at marcus@adventureundersail.com, if you’d like further information or take the shilling and ship aboard.

The Pelican is a steel, ocean going, sail training ship that is 45m in length with 43 berths and a professional crew of nine and registered and equipped for off-shore, worldwide, expeditionary voyages. The ship has been specifically designed to offer people an exciting, exhilarating seafaring experience.

The ship was built in Le Harve as a deepwater trawler by Augustine Normand and completed in 1948 and christened Le Pelican.

Her riveted hull was superbly engineered and

strengthened to carry a double-beam rig. The hull design was based on the French clippers of the 1870s and after years in the Arctic and later as a coaster the ship was sold. In 1995 she was towed to Portland to be converted into an amazing sail training ship and rebuilt to the highest standards.

The Pelican of London’s unique rig was designed to provide excitement, challenge and understanding while training under sail, to keep alive the traditions of square sail for all to experience and to be capable of world-wide operation in comfort and safety. The XEBEC (CHEBEC) rig is modelled on that of the Barbary Coast pirates, the most successful cor-

sairs of the Mediterranean for two centuries and, arguably, the fastest displacement sailing vessels of all time.

Sailing aboard The Pelican of London is an amazing ‘big gulp of now’ experience and a wonderful way to visit a wonderful French port for a day. The ship can accommodate up to 28 trainee crew and we have a number of places on the voyage to Barfleur. For further information please go to www.adventureundersail.com The Pelican of London will also be taking 28 young people from the Town and surrounding areas on a sail training voyage from Lyme Regis over Easter.

Unique opportunity for Lyme’s young people LOCAL young people attended an Adventure Under Sail meeting at The Hub to learn about the Lyme Regis Tall Ship Challenge, an exciting unique opportunity this Easter to experience sailing The Tall Ship Pelican of London for a six-day offshore voyage.

The Challenge has been organised

by Adventure Under Sail, a charity that provides opportunities for young people to build their confidence, work as part of a team and use their perseverance, initiative and leadership to sail The T/S Pelican.

It is planned that the ship will anchor off Lyme Regis on April 17 and be joined by her trainee crew. After safety briefings and familiarisation with the ship and the rig, the sails will

be set and the training voyage will begin. The Pelican’s destination will be set by the wind and the trainee crew will help chart her course, she will return to The Cobb on the morning of April 22.

The Lyme Regis Tall Ship Challenge is open to 28 local young people (14 girls and 14 boys) from the town and surrounding areas between the ages of 15 and 18. The cost for this amazing six day adventure is just £180, which young people are encouraged to raise themselves.

There are still a few places left for Tall Ship voyage, particularly for girls.

Please contact marcus@adventureundersail.com if you’d like to reserve your place or want to know more.

Friday, March 15 2019 3

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Three Cups: no date given for main works THE appearance of scaffolding on the front of the former Three Cups Hotel in Lyme Regis has prompted many to ask whether the owners, Palmer’s Brewery, of Bridport, are about to commence the long awaited redevelopment of the town centre eyesore.

But those who are anxious to see the Broad Street premises, closed for three decades, returned to its former glory in the immediate future are likely to be disappointed.

A spokesman for Palmer’s has told LymeOnline that the scaffolding had gone up on the Grade II Listed Building to carry out repairs and improve the appearance of the exterior of the historic building, which dates back to 1807, and there is no indication when a start will be made on the main development.

In 2015 West Dorset District Council granted planning permission for a development scheme said at the time to be costing £5 million.

The plan envisaged retention of the front of the building but partial demolition of the rear. The ground floor is likely to become retail outlets with two luxury flats above. The scheme also includes town houses, shops, a restaurant with panoramic views over Lyme Bay with 12 chalet-type letting accommodation units and an underground car park.

PHILIP EVANS

philip@lyme-online.co.uk At the time, John Palmer, chairman of JC & RH Palmer Ltd, said: "This decision is good news for the Three Cups, Lyme Regis and the local economy as a whole.

"We will be investing £5million in restoring a landmark building and helping to revitalise Broad Street.

Over the last few years, we have worked closely with townspeople and English Heritage to create a top-quality regeneration scheme that will bring great benefits to the area.

"A considerable amount of detailed work now needs to be done to ensure that the project moves forward smoothly and we will be starting this as soon as possible."

Since making that statement the building has continued to deteriorate badly.

Nigel Jones, Palmer’s property consultant, told this newspaper that the scaffolding had been erected because Palmer’s recognised the impact the building had on Broad Street and repairs to the stonework and painting were necessary.

Having been granted planning permission, work has to commence within three years and Mr Jones said the project had started, meeting that condition, with some stabilisation being carried out to a significant wall at the rear of the property.

AN artist’s impression of the planned re-development at the back of the former Three Cups Hotel, to include a restaurant and letting rooms He said the contractor which carried out this work was likely to be the contractor for the main development and they were now trying to come up a “simplified” scheme to access the groundworks which made up 40 per cent of the complete project.

He said: “We cannot give a date when the main work will start because we are waiting for the engineers to come up with a way of doing the groundworks.”

The Three Cups has associations with many famous literary and historical figures. It is believed that author Jane Austen stayed in Hiscott’s Boarding house on the same site in 1804.

The hotel has played host to many famous and influential people in-

cluding Alfred Lord Tennyson, Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, Hilaire Belloc, G.K. Chesterton and J. R. R. Tolkien, who spent several holidays there.

In 1944, General Eisenhower delivered an important briefing to senior officers in the first floor lounge prior to D-Day. The hotel was used in the making of the film ‘The French Lieutenant’s Woman’ in 1981, featuring Jeremy Irons and Meryl Streep.

A Save The Three Cups group was formed to campaign for the building to be re-opened as an hotel but Palmer’s produced a consultant’s report saying this was not financially viable.

Look out for our next issue on March 29

Until then you can catch up with the latest at www.lyme-online.co.uk

Cheryl announces she will stand for both councils

COUNCILLOR Cheryl Reynolds has announced her intention to stand in both the town and unitary council elections in May, having distributed her election addresses around Lyme Regis this week.

Councillor Reynolds currently sits on the town council and West Dorset District Council. The latter will be scrapped in April to make way for the new unitary Dorset Council.

Councillor Reynolds plans to stand for both and has delivered two election addresses around the town this week.

In her pitch for re-election to the town council, she said that the past five years on the authority have been a struggle at times but “there is still much work to be done”.

In her election address for the unitary authority, Councillor Reynolds confirmed that she will be standing as an independent and “will not be swayed by party politics”.

“I work solely for the benefit of the residents of Lyme and Charmouth, and for nobody else,” she added.

Councillor Reynolds will go head to head with her brother, Conservative Daryl Turner, to represent Lyme Regis and Charmouth on the new Dorset Council.

Musical Theatre’s race night fundraiser cancelled

A FUNDRAISING race night planned by Lyme Regis Musical Theatre has been cancelled due to unforseen circumstances.

The event was scheduled to take place at the Woodmead Halls tomorrow (Saturday).

Those who have already bought tickets will be refunded.

The society will be staging their 98th production, Cole Porter’s ‘Anything Goes’, at the Woodmead Halls from May 14 to May 18. Tickets go on sale next week at Lyme Regis Tourist Information Centre on 01297 442138.

See ‘Celebrating 100 Years of Song’ on page 15

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

Harbourside benches targeted by vandals Marine to stage anniversary show MEMORIAL benches around the historic Cobb wall in Lyme Regis have been vandalised with paint. The wooden benches, which were donated to the harbour in memory of loved ones, were vandalised with coloured paint sometime overnight on Thursday, March 7 and found the next morning by harbour staff.

THE Marine Theatre in Lyme Regis will celebrate its 125th anniversary with a special production looking back over the history of the building.

Plans for ‘The Marine: The First 125 Years!’ were revealed earlier last week at a meeting attended by theatre supporters and representatives of Lyme’s performing societies and organisations.

The show – to be staged over three nights in June – is being written by Marine Theatre patron and Lyme-

born scriptwriter Andrew Rattenbury and will be directed by Pearl Marsland.

The production will be a “review show”, bringing favourite songs and scenes from past productions back to the stage, intertwined with a narrative that will look back at the history of the venue since it was built on top of the town’s public baths 125 years ago, first operating as a drill hall.

Free health advice at Blokes Brunch Football club gives goals to Hub Scouts group holds beach clean MORE than 20 men attended a free Blokes Brunch at SWIM in Lyme Regis last weekend, hosted by Axminster and Lyme Cancer Support. The event, the first of its kind in the Lyme Regis area, was held specifically to target men’s health issues and offer those attending free advice on cancer, both for those directly affected by the disease and those supporting others.

LYME Regis Football Club’s youth section has donated football goals to The Hub, for use during its busy youth club sessions on Wednesdays and Fridays. It is hoped that offering the goals to the youth club will encourage more youngsters to take up the sport.

THE 1st Lym Valley Scout group spent Saturday afternoon cleaning up rubbish on Lyme Regis’ beaches following an inspiring talk from members of campaign group Plastic Free Lyme Regis. Members collected a total of 11 large bags of rubbish from Monmouth Beach, Victoria Pool and the sandy beach.

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Photo by Maisie Hill

West Dorset choir to host three concerts WEST Dorset chamber choir Cantamus will give three concerts in the region this spring. The programme, which has a meditative, thoughtful theme appropriate for Lent, is called ‘Hope, Faith, Life, Love’ after a piece by contemporary US composer Eric Whitacre. The concerts will be held at the Holy Trinity Church in Bothenhampton, St Mary’s Church in Cerne Abbas, and The Church of St Candida and Holy Cross in Whitchurch Canonicorum. See www.cantamus-dorset.org/ for full details.

Friday, March 15 2019 5

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the latest from Lyme Regis

FROM LYME’S OW N COMMUNIT Y WEBSITE

Stay up to date at www.lyme-online.co.uk - 24/7 news | sport | community Fond memories from my first job

Uncertain future for Town Mills’ future art events EVENTS and exhibitions at one of Lyme Regis’ key arts venues face an uncertain future as the Town Mill Arts (TMA) company has closed down.

TMA was a not-for profit subsidiary of the Town Mill Trust, which ran exhibitions at the Town Mill Galleries. Members have formed a new Community Interest Company which they hope can continue to run exhibitions from April.

East Devon District Council opens new headquarters EAST Devon District Council marked the official opening of its new headquarters at Blackdown House, Honiton, with a flag raising ceremony and the installation of two time capsules. Council chairman Andrew Moulding was joined at the special event by children from two Honiton primary schools, who had selected the items for the time capsules.

IT seems to be a year of special anniversaries. After LymeOnline celebrated its first year in business last month, this week we mark the 15th anniversary of the popular Harbour Inn on Marine Parade with a special feature on page 11.

I got my first job as a waitress at the Harbour when I was 14, not long after it re-opened under the ownership of Sue Steward and her son Mark Oldfield. I was a rather shy teenager when I started; I looked about 10, could barely reach over the kitchen pass and was terrified of getting anything wrong.

Luckily, my four years at the Harbour really brought me out of my shell and by the time I left at 18 to start working as a trainee local reporter I was constantly told off for chatting too much!

I have many happy memories spending summer holidays working alongside my sister and school friends right on Lyme’s beachfront, and it’s great to see Sue, son Mark and daughter Julie still at the helm of what has become a firm favourite of the Lyme Regis foodie scene.

Also celebrating a special anniversary this year is the Marine Theatre - first built as a drill hall - which will look back at the 125-year history of the building with a special show to be staged in June.

The production is bound to be a hit, with local societies and organisations being asked to resurrect their most popular scenes and songs, intertwined with a narrative written by Lyme-born scriptwriter Andy Rattenbury. See page 4 or our website for full details.

Lyme Regis Musical Theatre will also be celebrating its centenary next year and we look back at 100 years of song on page 15. And Charmouth Junior Athletics Club marked its first anniver-

sary last weekened (page 8).

Of course, the talk of the town this week has been all about the filming of ‘Ammonite’, which got underway on Monday. I’ve spent half the week lingering around the bottom of Bell Cliff steps to catch a glimpse of actresses Kate Winslet, playing Lyme’s famous fossil hunter Mary Anning, and Saoirse Ronan, who plays Frances Bell.

There’s been a real air of excitement around town with the filming attracting big crowds and even bigger camera lenses! I decided to leave it to the professionals and we feature photos by Lyme’s number one snapper Richard Austin on page 7.

In between the celeb-spotting I paid a visit to Charmouth Scouts HQ last week to meet members of the Explorer branch who are getting ready for expeditions to Kenya and Tanzania (see page 8).

Despite being not in the least bit practical or prepared, I was privileged to be made an honorary member of Charmouth Scouts in 2017, so I’m always happy to pop into HQ and give them a plug whenever possible.

The Explorers are really looking forward to the once-in-a-lifetime trips, where they’ll be carrying out volunteer work which is sure to make a huge difference to the communities they’ll be visiting.

But first they have to raise significant funds to secure their places, so please give them your support!

Francesca Evans, Editor

NE W LOOK

B Sharp’s new pop-up Trawlerman takes on choir a huge success key role with RNLI crew A POP-UP choir event, recently held in Seaton

by Lyme Regis-based music charity B Sharp, was deemed a huge success. The event at Seaton’s Gateway Theatre saw 30 people aged from 11 years old up to those in their 70s coming together to sing as part of B Sharp’s new programme of events for 2019.

A FORMER trawlerman and volunteer lifeguard on the Essex coast has joined Lyme Regis lifeboat crew. Simon Peters, 57, a former dental technician, has become a deputy launching authority and joins the volunteer management team at the RNLI lifeboat station on the Cobb.

Music of Stan Getz brought to the Marine AMERICAN jazz saxophonist Stan Getz was known as ‘The Sound’ because of his warm, lyrical tone, his prime influence being the wispy, mellow timbre of his idol, Lester Young.

Getz won many Grammy awards in his lifetime, including one for his performance of bossa nova hit ‘Desafinado’, which is one of the tunes you will hear on Sunday, March 24 at the Marine Theatre’s latest Jazz in the Bar offering with musician Terry Quinney.

Tickets cost £8 in advance or £12 on the door. To book, call 01297 442138 or visit www.marinetheatre.com

LYME RE G I S

Sunday Sequence Every evening 8-10pm Dancing Fitness that’s ‘Strictly’ Fun New dancers welcome

Fun, Fab, Dance Based Fitness Join Sarah on Tuesday mornings from 10-11am for 1st session free Call 07788 946 427 for more information Other regular events include Ballet, Yoga, Pilates, Bingo and Short Mat Bowls

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

6 Friday, March 15 2019

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

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philip@lyme-online.co.uk

Election or no election? That is the question WHEELER’S WORLD...

J

UST when we wanted our councillors to be encouraging candidates to put their names forward for the town council election in May, it all got a bit unnecessary in the Guildhall again this week.

Lyme Regis goes to the polls on May 2 to elect 14 town councillors and one representative on the new Dorset unitary authority.

After a difficult few years where tempers have often been frayed in the council chamber, and potential councillors are starting to ask “do I really want to be part of this?”, it was agreed to hold a couple of sessions so prospective candidates could learn all about being a councillor.

Council staff went to the trouble of putting together a presentation on all facets of the job and booked the Lister Room for two sessions.

It was very comprehensive.

Unfortunately, only two people turned up to the afternoon session and one in the evening.

The Mayor, Councillor Michaela Ellis, attended the presentations, as to be expected, and Councillor Jeff Scowen also turned up much to the chagrin of other members.

Councillor Scowen has been trying hard to convince all and sundry to put themselves forward for election to ensure that a contest actually takes place. That means there has to be a minimum of 15 candidates.

When it was revealed that Councillor Scowen had attended the presentations it kicked off yet again at a council meeting on Wednesday with at least two other members saying they had been told they were not allowed to be present.

Town clerk John Wright said the presentations were for potential councillors and not existing members and was clearly irked by the criticism, saying: “I wish I hadn’t bothered”.

He warned councillors to be “very careful” if they were questioning his honesty after vet-

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eran councillor Stan Williams claimed he had not been informed of the presentations.

It was, by all accounts, a very awkward moment (see page 10 for full story).

Councillor Williams clashed with the town clerk again later in the meeting when discussing assets on the Monmouth Beach, claiming Mr Wright had not replied to his letters.

Mr Wright turned to the mayor, saying: “This has got to stop.” The mayor warned Councillor Williams, telling him he could not continue to “accuse officers”.

On the question of poor attendance at the presentation to potential councillors, I’m not so sure that’s too much to worry about. Town councils have been told they have to promote the election and they fulfilled that obligation.

I am sure there are some out there who may well have decided to stand for election but did not think it necessary to be told how to do it.

A number of names who have considered standing for election have been bandied around town and I know of three who were planning to put their names forward and have now decided not to, mainly for reasons of time and commitment.

On Facebook, this newspaper has been accused, not for the first time by this individual, of putting people off because of our “negative and biased” reporting. I would take a bit more notice of this person if he had ever been to a council meeting and was able to substantiate that allegation, but to my knowledge he never has... or not in recent years anyway.

Whilst I have commented on council’s decisions in this column in a critical manner, I have not personally criticised any of the current members. If new members act in a respectful manner to their colleagues, they have nothing to fear.

One person who is considering standing is Nigel Ball, a regular watcher of council affairs who has spoken many times in the public forum at council meetings. Mr Ball is always ultra-polite to councillors but has, from time to time, pointed out where he believes the council has gone wrong.

Mr Ball attended this week’s council meeting and was less than happy when it was implied IF you’re at a loss what to do on a Sunday morning over the next few weeks, pop into the Woodmead Halls and see the exhibition of tapestries created by ladies of the U3A. Some of Lyme’s most iconic views and buildings have been captured very skilfully and are well worth a visit.

The halls will be opened on Sunday mornings (10am to 12noon) for people to have a look. Others who have already seen them have enquired whether they could buy the tapestries but they are not for sale.

The tapestry group is just one of around 45 groups organised by the U3A which was founded in 2005 and which has a membership of about 600 people.

TOWN councillor and would-be mayor Jeff Scowen was, apparently, a bit miffed that his application to become an extra alongside Hollywood actress Kate Winslet in the film ‘Ammonite’, currently being shot in Lyme Regis, was rejected - especially as he fancies himby Councillor Scowen that he was “a critic” of the council. Mr Ball demanded an apology from Councillor Scowen, who did so immediately, saying he was being “light-hearted”. Mr Ball promptly left the meeting.

This is all pretty depressing stuff as the election gets nearer but I hope Mr Ball will put this to one side and offer himself up for election. I believe he would get the town’s support.

For those who may still be considering becoming a councillor, I’m sure the council would make their presentation available in hard copy format. Nomination forms are available from the council officers and have to be sent in by 12noon on April 3. Go for it!

self as a bit of a film-maker. But undeterred, Jeff is planning to star in his own film - ‘The Jeff Scowen Story’ - or ‘How I took Lyme By Storm’. Filming has already started as you can see above.

Remember where you saw this first...

Image by ROB WHEELER IN my last column I mentioned how impressed I was with the presentation that Police and Crime Commissioner Martyn Underhill gave to Lyme Regis Town Council.

Mr Underhill offered an honest appraisal of why police numbers have been reduced in Dorset due to cuts in government funding and the amount of resources now needed to fight cyber and fraud crime.

He also told councillors that he thought Lyme would miss out on the failure to amalgamate the Dorset and Devon & Cornwall Constabularies.

What he didn’t reveal was the fact, released this week, that the cost of trying to bring the two police forces together was a staggering £400,000. How many extra bobbies on the beat would that pay for?

Time to promote all Lyme’s history WITH the excitement of the filming of the Mary Anning story dominating the town this week, the focus inevitably falls on why Lyme has not honoured its most famous fossil hunter in some tangible form before now.

There is a very ambitious project on the go to erect a statue of Mary in an appropriate position akin to where her most famous fossil was found and if the ‘Ammonite’ film is as successful as ‘The French Lieutenant’s Woman’ even more earth sciences fanatics will descend upon Lyme to dig further into

our cliffs.

Whilst I am all in favour of doing justice to Mary Anning not least for the rich pickings she has delivered to a town which did not treat her particularly well, we should remember that Lyme has a fascinating history and so I was interested to read on our letters page this week (see page 10) that our history correspondent Peter Lacey has suggested reviving plans to display a complete history timeline from 774 for the town.

I remember having similar conversations with Chris

Boothroyd when he was running the volunteers at the Jubilee Pavilion, which I agree with Mr Lacey would be the ideal place for such an initiative, supposing of course that the now defunct information point will be re-opened at some time in the future by the new town council when it comes into being in May. A good early project to get their teeth into.

There are many other episodes in our history that would probably make a good film too!

Friday, March 15 2019 7

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Stars in town for filming of ‘Ammonite’ LARGE crowds have been gathering in Lyme Regis town centre this week, keen to catch a glimpse of Oscar-winning actress Kate Winslet as she starts filming for ‘Ammonite’.

The period drama will see Winslet – known for her roles in films such as ‘Titanic’, ‘The Reader’ and ‘The Holiday’ – play Lyme’s famous fossil hunter Mary Anning.

It will follow her fictional relationship with young woman Frances Bell, played by Saoirse Ronan (‘Lady Bird’, ‘On Chesil Beach’, ‘Mary Queen of Scots’), who is sent to Lyme from London because of her ill health.

With the Bell Cliff area of Broad Street having been transformed into an 1840s street scene, filming began on Monday and both Winslet and Ronan have been spotted shooting scenes alongside actress Fiona Shaw (‘Harry Potter’, ‘Killing Eve’, ‘Mrs Wilson’).

Several local residents have also been seen in costume having been selected to work as extras.

Photos from the set were featured in the national press this week, with most articles focussing on director Francis Lee’s decision to portray Mary Anning as a gay woman.

Businesses in the Bell Cliff area have been closed for filming and stop/go traffic management is currently in place in Broad Street, which has caused some delays.

The filming is set to continue throughout March, with Lyme and Charmouth’s beaches

Words by Francesca Evans Photos by Richard Austin and Coombe Street also to appear in ‘Ammonite’, which is expected to be a box office hit.

County councillor Daryl Turner has confirmed that Coombe Street will be closed to vehicles on March 27 and 29, and to vehicles and pedestrians on March 28, although access will be allowed for those who live or work in the street.

It is hoped the release of the film will create a tourism boom for Lyme Regis, similar to that seen after the release of ‘The French Lieutenant’s Woman’, filmed in Lyme in the 1980s.

At that time, the town received £8,000 in compensation for the disruption, the equivalent of £34,400 today.

Town clerk John Wright previously reported he was in negotiations with the film company to agree on a compensation sum for the filming of ‘Ammonite’ but a figure has not yet been revealed.

Some have suggested that any money the town receives should be donated to a charity such as the Rotary Club of Lyme Regis, while others have suggested it should go towards the Mary Anning Rocks campaign, which is hoping to raise funds to erect a statue of the paleontologist in the town.

A FOSSIL shop on Bell Cliff has been transformed into ‘Anning’s Fossils and Curios’ for the filming, with Kate Winslet pictured outside

MULTI award-winning actresses Kate Winslet (above left) and Saoirse Ronan (right) pictured on set

THE stars attracted huge crowds to Broad Street this week. Below, Kate Winslet and Saoirse Ronan as Mary Anning and Frances Bell

The BIG Breakfast

thecharmouthpage

8 Friday, March 15 2019

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Scouts prepare for expeditions Residents told to stand for council rather than criticise

EXPLORER Scouts from the 1st Charmouth Scout Group organised a sponsored trek cart pull to raise funds for their upcoming expeditions to Africa.

Starting at their headquarters at the Barrs Lane playing field, the Scouts pulled a 200kg cart to the top of Stonebarrow Hill, polishing off the 4km route in well under an hour.

Five of the Explorer Scouts - Alex Moorey, Megan and Sean Har- MEMBERS of the Charmouth Explorer Scouts who will be embarking on expeditions vey, Mark Pearson- to Africa this summer and in 2020 Smith and Alfie Bullmore Jenkins, all Woodroffe School pupils school built by the previous Scout expedition in aged between 14 and 17 - are off to Kenya this the remote rural village of Madababa.

They both have to raise £3,500 and their next summer, where they will be undertaking various community work projects such as developing fundraiser will be a table-top sale at Uplyme VilBaragu Health Centre, improving houses for lage Hall from 2pm to 4pm on Saturday, March needy families, repairing classrooms and assisting 30. Tables are still available by emailing flipflopsorwellies@gmail.com or call 07932 089 602. teachers in the Donna Kelly Special Needs Unit.

Anyone wishing to make a donation to help any They will also participate in joint activities with Scout groups in local schools, tackle a challenging of the Scouts reach their targets should contact high altitude four-day trek of Mount Kenya to Pt Scout leader Kevin Payne by emailing Lenana (16,355ft) and visit the grave of Robert payne.kevin6@gmail.com.

The Explorer Unit is on the look out for new Baden-Powell, the founder of Scouting, in Nyeri.

Each of them needs to raise £2,200 to fund their members and has put together a 'taster' programme for potential new recruits with events inexpedition and community work.

A further two members of the Scout Group - cluding a night-wide game in Charmouth Woods, Lucy and Annabel Mackenney, also Woodroffe pony trekking and paint-balling.

Explorers is open to girls and boys aged 13 and a School pupils, aged 12 and 14 - will be visiting Tanzania in 2020 to conduct their community work half and above. For more information contact projects. These will include working on building Melanie Harvey on 07890 540 979 or email and renovating teachers' accommodation in a melanie@atthecoast.co.uk

QUALIFIED FOOT HEALTH PROFESSIONAL Peter Mellor MCFHP MAFHP

CHARMOUTH Parish Council chairman Peter Noel has urged villagers to become a councillor rather than sitting on the sidelines “having a moan”.

Mr Noel made his plea at a well attended annual parish meeting in St Andrew’s Hall where he referred to criticism of the delay in putting up the village Christmas lights.

He told the meeting there was no way volunteers could now do the work because of health and safety issues and the impossibility of getting insurance cover.

The lights now had to be contracted out to the same company as the lights in Lyme Regis and the village had to wait before as the Lyme contract was deemed to be more important.

Mr Noel called for some greater understanding in such matters from those who were critical and urged them to put themselves forward for the parish council elections in May. He pointed out that those who served on the council were trying to help the village and that it was “easy to criticise”.

He said: “People rarely say to the parish council we have done a good job but they are quick to criticise. Our outside staff do a good job and it would be nice for people to say they had done a good job.”

Mr Noel also explained why the council had decided to adopt a two-monthly meeting cycle. The decision was taken because of the volume of red tape the council had to deal with and he went on to praise the parish clerk, Lisa Tuck, and her staff for their hard work and the number of hours they put in.

Mr Noel concluded his report by telling parishioners that the council was a happy one

PHILIP EVANS

philip@lyme-online.co.uk

with no politics and they would welcome new members.

Earlier, the clerk had reported that the council was currently three members short and they would need 12 nominations, which had to be received by April 3, to trigger an election on May 2.

Councillor Judith Sheppard, chairman of the Foreshore Committee, also urged more people to put themselves forward for election, describing the work of a parish councillor as “worthwhile and rewarding”.

She gave a report on the work of the Foreshore Committee during the past year, making special mention of the Heritage Coast Centre, which she described as the village’s “jewel in the crown”.

Councillor Martin Sayers also gave a report as chairman of the Playing Fields, Cemetery and Street Management Committee.

A presentation on the increase in fraud crime was given by PSCO Amanda King and Dr Richa Singh and Lucas Danes, from the Dorset Clinical Commissioning Group, spoke on changes in the NHS which would see the two doctor’s practices in Lyme Regis amalgamate into one to take over GP and nursing services from Virgin Care. Charmouth would remain as an independent practice.

County and district councillor Daryl Turner gave an informative slide presentation on the new Dorset unitary authority, and Councillor Cheryl Reynolds spoke on her work as West Dorset district councillor for Lyme and Charmouth, stressing that she was more interested in “people than politics”.

Athletics club celebrates first year

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MEMBERS of Charmouth Junior Athletics Club celebrated the organisation’s first anniversary on Saturday.

Set up by John Smith a year ago to improve sporting activities outside of school for young people, the inclusive club caters for children aged from eight to 15 years, offering physical activity based on three core principles - fun, learn and grow.

John set up the not-for-profit club to support young people’s physical activity goals and to coach them in technical and personal skills to help improve as young athletes. He coaches two

75-minute classes on Saturday mornings, held either at Charmouth Youth Club or on the recreational ground at Barrs Lane depending on the weather.

John also hopes to organise a 'mini olympics' event during the May half term to raise funds for a local Scout Explorer who is going to Kenya to do community work later this year (see above), and to fund sports equipment for a remote village school that he taught in last year.

For more information on joining the club, visit the Charmouth Junior Athletics Club Facebook page.

theuplymepage

Friday, March 15 2019 9

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Programme of fundraisers planned for refugee resettlement scheme THE first fundraising event for the Uplyme Community Sponsorship Scheme - which aims to resettle a refugee family from Syria in the local area - sold out in just five days.

The Syrian Supper will be held this weekend after tickets flew out the door.

Volunteers from the sponsorship scheme are hoping their next fundraiser - a one-woman show at the Marine Theatre in Lyme Regis - will prove just as popular.

The show, written and performed by Catherine Dyson, explores issues of movement, identity and belonging from the perspective of a 13 year-old girl. It will be held at the Marine on Wednesday, April 24 and tickets are now available at www.marinetheatre.com or by calling 01297 442138.

A spokesperson for Uplyme Community Sponsorship Scheme said: “We have set ambitious fundraising targets and other exciting community events are planned, ranging from activities at fairs and festivals to an auction of promises, a community supper, clothes sale and a jazz concert in the Uplyme Parish Church on Saturday, June 1.

“Local schools, churches and community groups are getting involved and groups of volun-

■ CHILDREN from Uplyme Pre-School have done their bit to help create a night landing site for Devon Air Ambulance in the village.

Uplyme Parish Council is hoping that the King George V playing field can be designated a night landing site for the life-saving service, but funds are needed to cover planning a planning application and lighting. Uplyme Pre-School held a coffee morning on Friday morning, including a drawing competition which all the children took part in. The competition was judged by parish councillors Barbara Kidson and Neil Pullinger (pictured with children) and the winners were Frankie, Olive and Elsie. The event raised £250 towards the night landing site.

teers are researching the health, education, housing, benefits, language, religious and cultural provision in both Devon and Dorset to construct a resettlement plan which will be considered by local authority and then the Home Office.

“Supporters and volunteers are very welcome to join us. We are particularly keen to hear from property owners and landlords who would be willing to rent their house to a resettled Syrian family.

Having launched last year, the Uplyme Community Sponsorship Scheme plans to resettle a family under the Home Office Resettlement programme.

A public meeting was held last November to engage the local community and to hear from the experience of Ottery St Mary, where their volunteer community group achieved the resettlement of a Syrian family last spring. The Uplyme scheme now has a larger supporters’ group of over 50 volunteers.

For more information on the scheme visit www.gov.uk/government/publications/applyfor-full-community-sponsorship or to get involved locally email uplymecommunitysponsorship@gmail.com

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Town clerk criticised as councillors told to stay Councillor asked to apologise after away from event for potential new members THE town clerk of Lyme Regis faced criticism at a meeting this week, after some councillors were told they were “not allowed” to attend an event he hosted for prospective election candidates.

Town clerk John Wright said he “wished he hadn’t bothered” hosting what was supposed to be a positive event for potential new councillors, after it resulted in a row with existing members during which he was accused of lying.

Mr Wright hosted two open events last Monday to provide information to potential new councillors ahead of the election in May - one in the afternoon and one in the evening, attended by a total of just three people.

The event was then discussed at Wednesday night’s Strategy & Finance Committee meeting, when Councillor Jeff Scowen asked why the existing councillors were not invited to attend.

Councillor Scowen said he “turned up without being invited” and the Mayor, Councillor Michaela Ellis, had also attended.

“It does seem a bit strange that there was only myself and one other councillor there. When we get these people - although they didn’t turn up, just as well because it would have been embarrassing - we should have councillors there to fly the flag,” he commented.

“In future please, out of courtesy and efficiency, all members should have been invited.

I’ve discussed it with members and some weren’t invited and said they were discouraged from attending.

“I don’t think it was the correct way to handle a very important thing that was very poorly attended by the public.”

Councillor Cheryl Reynolds said she was “very concerned” because she was specifically told she was not allowed to attend the event.

“I was told the mayor could go but I definitely could not,” she added.

Have your say on future of local healthcare services RESIDENTS of the Lyme Regis area will be given the chance to share their ideas with Dorset HealthCare Trust, which provides a variety of health-related services.

Of most local relevance, the services the trust provides include ‘community services’, such as podiatry, health visitor, school nurse, nursery nurse, mental health support and all activities at Bridport Community Hospital.

Having been rated ‘Good’ after a Care Quality Commission inspection in 2018, Dorset HealthCare is planning its work over the next few years. This will take into account the Clinical Services Review conducted by Dorset Clinical Commissioning Group between 2014 and 2017, and the governments’s recent ‘NHS Long-Term Plan’.

Governors of the trust, including Lyme Regis resident Ken Lavery, are running workshops to discuss with the public what is working well and what needs to improve.

The nearest workshop to Lyme will be held at Bridport Leisure Centre from 2pm to 4pm on Thursday, March 21.

Places at the workshop must be booked in advance through www.dorsethealthcare.nhs.uk/join-us/strategy-sessions.

Mr Lavery, who is also a member of LymeForward’s Health and Wellbeing Group, commented: “This is a vital time for patients in Lyme and Charmouth, with the contract for the remainder of community services (at present run by Virgin Care) ending on May 31. Now is the perfect moment to make local voices heard.”

Medical practices to join forces as Virgin Care loses contract - see front page

FRANCESCA EVANS

francesca@lyme-online.co.uk Mr Wright said that the event was intended for potential new councillors and not existing members. He said it was publicised and members had even received a report at the last Strategy & Finance meeting on the upcoming elections, which mentioned the event.

Councillor Stan Williams - who has been on holiday for six weeks so had missed the last meeting - said he had been through all his records and had not received the report.

He commented: “None of this is true. I have been away, when I came back I went through all my information - nothing.

“On Monday morning I went into the office and specifically asked ‘can I attend?’. The staff on the front desk disappeared and came back with the answer ‘no, you are not allowed to go’. It was very plain.”

The town clerk replied: “If members want to suggest other members are not telling the truth that’s for you guys to sort out. If you are accusing me as the town clerk, who has actually done things as a matter of public record, I would suggest members need to be very, very careful.”

Councillor Williams: “I’m not suggesting anything, I’m telling you precisely what happened...

Why was I told no councillors were allowed to go?”

Mr Wright said the event was not designed or aimed at current members, and he wanted it to be as neutral as possible with no attempt to influence members of the public.

He added that some members chose to turn up and he did not want to turn people away.

Councillor Scowen said he found the information provided at the event very helpful and he thought other members would have also bene-

fited. He said he disagreed that having existing councillors attending the event would “put people off”, and they should have been there to support and encourage the public to stand.

Councillor Reynolds commented: “I understand the idea of keeping the public spearate from the councillors but there’s one thing I do not accept - I was told specifically I could not go by the town clerk and then Councillor Scowen goes. I’m sorry, that’s not fair.”

Mr Wright said it would have been “completely inappropriate” to ask Councillor Scowen to leave the event.

He added: “I’ve tried doing something really positive here. Do you know what? It feels dead negative now, I wish I hadn’t bothered.”

Defending the town clerk, the mayor commented: “He’s trying to pull people from the town to sit on this council. It would be great to have an election this year and not be a self-selecting council. We need as many people as possible and some new blood on the council.”

■ FOLLOWING the discussion on the election event, Councillor Williams raised the ongoing negotiations regarding assets on Monmouth Beach, saying he had written to the town clerk to ask for further information and “of course he didn’t response, as he never does”.

Addressing Councillor Ellis, who was chairing the meeting, Mr Wright said: “This has got to stop.”

Councillor Ellis told Councillor Williams he could not continue to “accuse officers”.

Mr Wright said he had spent hours talking members through maps, designs, leases and other information on the Monmouth Beach area and the council had held many meetings on the matter.

“I’ve done it loads of times. Does anybody not recognise what I’m saying?” he asked.

offending resident

TOWN councillor Jeff Scowen was forced to apologise to a member of the public this week, after they took offence at being described as a “critic” of the council.

Lyme Regis resident and keen council follower Nigel Ball asked for Councillor Scowen to apologise at Wednesday night’s Strategy & Finance Committee meeting, after taking offence at his comments.

Councillor Scowen had been praising the council’s new Corporate Plan, saying it should be distributed to all Lyme Regis residents to show what the council had achieved.

He commented: “It’s very positive and it shows we’ve done good things. I know we have our critics...”

Councillor Scowen then implied he was referring to Mr Ball, who was sitting in the public gallery. The Mayor, Councillor Michaela Ellis, immediately reprimanded him, saying: “None of that, please.”

At the end of the discussion, Mr Ball interrupted the meeting to ask Councillor Scowen to apologise.

“That is unfair. You’re asking people to stand on the council and you say I’m a critic.

I come down here and I’m very polite,” he commented.

Councillor Scowen apologised, saying his comments were meant “light-heartedly”.

Mr Ball replied: “You’re a councillor, be serious. I don’t expect that and I’m not going to stand for it.”

Mr Ball and his wife then left the meeting.

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

Please don’t turn Ship into another gastro pub ■ AN open letter to Palmers

Brewery: I write to enquire about the state of play regarding the Ship Inn, Lyme Regis. I have been a regular customer at the ship for years, and have enjoyed the pub, and the beer which has been of excellent quality under Alan and Virginia Henson, an also under Dave Henson before that.

Being a pensioner, I tended to visit the pub at around 4pm with a friend for a much enjoyed pint or four, and occasionally a game of crib, and returning home with a meal from the fish and chip shop across the road.

Today I found the pub closed, and there are notices in the window telling me of the much limited opening times, and a sign saying that the pub would remain closed today due to staff shortages, also suggesting to go to the Pilot Boat around the corner.

I do have similar regrets of how the Pilot Boat has been redeveloped, but that I can live with, I'm old and prefer a quieter, more

traditional pub, also I might add, with more modest drink prices.

The Ship has been just that - a comfy local, and the rumour I have heard is that a large amount of money has been put aside for its refurbishment.

I sincerely hope that the pub will just get a ‘spruce up’, involving decoration, maybe some new seats, re-finish the beautiful mahogany bar counter, etc. I also really do hope that you don't rip it all out and turn it into another trendy modern gastro-pub. Lyme has plenty of those.

Especially I ask that you do not get rid of the skittle alley, which is now the only one in Lyme Regis, and caters for several skittle teams.

I do hope that you consider my requests, bring in a new ‘Guv'nor’ and re-open the place as a proper local for the likes of myself and many friends who also share my concerns.

Pete Grigg (by email)

Send your letters to LymeOnline, Unit 5 Uplyme Business Park, Uplyme Road, Lyme Regis, Dorset DT7 3LS or email francesca@lyme-online.co.uk

GET INVOLVE WITH YO D COMMU UR NITY PAPER

Not another statue!

■ WHAT is the point of yet another statue? Lyme has a history can be traced back to 774, over the centuries there have been numerous notable people and many historic events, the town has a remarkable heritage.

I have long advocated that we should celebrate that heritage in its entirety. The Marine Parade shelters would make a suitable setting for a pictorial display of our history from port to resort, such a display would cover every aspect of Lyme's well documented history.

The cost would be nothing like the ridiculous sum being quoted for the

Anning statue. Such a display would I am sure encourage visitors to visit the museum, it would also brighten up the appalling dismal state of the shelters.

For inspiration I suggest the town council and residents visit the Jubilee Shelter in Beer, they know how to present a history time line.

If Beer can do it, then why not us?

If you feel as I do then make your feelings known to the decision makers, before we get yet another seagull perch.

Peter Lacey, Fairfield Park, Lyme Regis

■ WALKING most days along the Cobb and into the town itself, avoiding dogs mess is an everyday thing.

As for the sand beach and the dogs running loose far away from there owners , it’s a bad accident waiting to happen. Last week I counted 11 dogs running loose on the beach with children playing and dogs peeing and pooing. Not good, I wouldn't let my granddaughter near such a dangerous place.

Dogs should go on Monmouth Beach but one thing you can be sure of is that nothing will be done.

Jon Clements, Lyme Regis

■ IT’S been weeks now since the webcam installed at the Marine Theatre has been working (not enough power to operate comes up on screen).

Shame that someone isn't getting this fixed to maximise the publicity value for the town.

The webcam on the Cobb struggles on though, but the clarity could be much improved, looks like they put Vaseline on the lens at times!

The best webcam streams from Lyme Bay Pizza, but sadly you can't catch up on any movie stars filming from that view.

I did email the town council last year and they admitted there were 'issues' with the camera on the theatre.

Simon Kerr (by email)

Friday, March 15 2019 9

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ADVERTISING FEATURE

New look for Harbour Inn celebration S

ITTING on the veranda as the sun goes down, sipping a chilled Chablis with the sea lapping over the sandy beach just a few steps away, you could be in any trendy bar in some exotic holiday location.

But this is the Harbour Inn in Lyme Regis trendy in its own right with a plethora of new eating out venues opening in recent times where owners Sue Steward and Mark Oldfield are preparing to celebrate their 15th year in the resort and whose reputation has done much to establish Lyme as a must-go-to food destination.

Before flying off for a two-week break in Sri Lanka, ahead of another hectic summer season, Sue and her staff have been giving Lyme’s most popular seafront restaurant and bar a refreshed look.

Adding a very special touch, the bar and restaurant walls are adorned with an array of spectacular works by Sue’s artist daughter, Julie Oldfield, currently displaying her unique paintings on metal at the The Malthouse Gallery at the Town Mill until April 3.

Before acquiring The Harbour, after moving to the West Country from Derbyshire in the 1990s, Sue bought the Honiton Wine Bar, which was run by son Mark, as well as taking over the Awliscombe Inn. The Harbour was a pretty tired seaside pub when they took it over in 2004 and, over the years, they have extended the premises, adding a restaurant, maximising the attractive veranda and securing a sitting out area on the beach which is literally just a few steps from the bar.

Sue and Mark soon recognised that their po-

SUE Steward - looking forward to The Harbour Inn’s 15th year in Lyme Regis

ARTIST Julie Oldfield whose unique paintings are on show at The Harbour

Occasional music nights at The Harbour are always popular with its close proximity to the beach and the bar is a regular haunt for the seafaring fraternity, including the unofficial watering hole for Lyme Regis Gig Club.

Special menus are also prepared for specific events such as Valentine’s Day and Burns’ Night but Sue and her staff consider those who just want to take in the seaside atmosphere and enjoy a drink on the veranda, or in the sitting out area, just as important as those enjoying their meals in the restaurant.

Sue said: “We have a loyal clientele but we are conscious that there is increasing competition in the hospitality trade in Lyme Regis and to celebrate our 15th year in the town we have redecorated the bar and restaurant and will be launching a new menu as Easter and

the summer approaches.

“We are really grateful for the support we have received from the people of Lyme and we look forward to serving them and our visitors for many years to come.”

Sue paid tribute to her staff, around 36 of whom are employed during the season, and also the creativity and skill of her chefs.

The Harbour Inn is open seven days a week 10.30am until late with food being served 12noon to 2.30pm and 6pm to 9pm. It is always advisable to book, especially for bigger parties, by calling 01297 442299.

IN LYME REGIS

sition so close to the sea was their greatest asset and set about building their restaurant trade, gaining a reputation over the years for good quality cuisine at reasonable prices, using local ingredients, especially fresh fish right off the harbour trawlers.

That reputation is still as strong today despite the increase in competition from new food outlets in Lyme in recent years. For many, The Harbour is still the favoured location for celebrating big occasions and events and some of their dishes, especially Sue’s very own fish pie, have near iconic status.

Separate lunchtime and evening a la carte menus are available with chief chef Daryl Moss and his kitchen staff - Andy Bensen, Ben Jones and Cameron Moss - preparing daily specials using local produce where possible.

STAFF members Melissa Hutchings (left) and Rosanne Hendley working behind the bar

YEARS

in Lyme Regis

HEAD chef Daryl Moss (centre) with Andy Bensen (right) and Cameron Moss (left). INSET: Ben Jones

Family-run business serving home-cooked food using quality local produce Enjoy lunch or dinner in our restaurant, private beach area or veranda overlooking the bay To book call 01297 442299 - harbourinnlymeregis.co.uk THE newly-decorated restaurant at the Harbour Inn

Photos by RICHARD AUSTIN

Book now for MOTHERING SUNDAY - March 31st and look out for our NEW MENU starting in April

12 Friday, March 15 2019

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Pupils hit the slopes on annual skiing trip FIVE days of clear blue skies and just the one day of snow showers greeted 43 Year 10 students from The Woodroffe School in Lyme Regis, as they spent the week skiing in the Arhntal Valley in the South Tyrol region of Italy.

Over the course of the week the majority of students developed their skiing skills from being total novices to being able to slalom race.

Teacher Justin Loveland, trip organiser, commented: “For many of the students this was the first time they had seen the Alps and significant snow.

“With four hours of tuition a day it was a very tiring week but an incredibly rewarding one as well. The instructors could not believe how quickly the students took to the sport, which is fantastic considering we live in a coastal community.”

Student Oscar Travill said: “I started the week not being able to ski and I can now ski well. It was an amazing trip!”

Pupil Eleanor Robson added: "We fell over more times than we could count but we had a great time!"

The experienced students also demonstrated great skiing skills and congratulations go to Callum Priestley and Edi Rouse for their best skier titles.

Mr Loveland added: “As in previous years the students were fantastic ambassadors for Woodroffe and they should be really proud of themselves.

“A big thank you also to Mr Greenhough, Miss Hamshere, Miss Trunks, Mr Kelly and Mrs Burleigh for their support in running the trip.

“As for next year, the final arrangements are now being put in place so watch this space!”

Remembering Auschwitz O

N January 27 the country observed Holocaust Memorial Day; a day of remembrance for all those who have been killed and persecuted as a result of genocide.

Six million Jews were killed during the Holocaust yet, on this day of remembrance, a shocking poll revealed that one in 12 Brits believe the scale of the Holocaust has been exaggerated, and one in 20 denies the Holocaust altogether.

With a 40 per cent increase in religious hate crime in the past two years, as well as the numerous allegations of anti-Semitism in the UK parliament, it is clear we are living in divisive times.

In light of this, I embarked on a month-long project with three other Woodroffe students that taught the need for compassion during times of division. It highlighted the consequences of prejudice and racism becoming acceptable in society. This project was ‘Lessons from Auschwitz’, run by The Holocaust Educational Trust since 1999.

During the orientation seminar we were given the rare honour of talking to Holocaust survivor and activist Hannah Lewis MBE, who works with the trust to pass on her story to students across the country.

She shared emotional recollections of her harrowing imprisonment, as a child, in the Nazi Labour Camp Adampol. We learned of the tragic loss of her mother, and many other family members, during the atrocities.

However, she focussed her testimony on her emotional healing in the war’s aftermath. Following the liberation of Adampol by Soviet forces, she was displaced and settled in the UK, whilst her father moved to the Jewish State of Israel. As an adult she re-visited her family home in Włodawa and returned to the nearby labour camp, where she erected a memorial.

Woodroffe sixth former Jasmine Aldridge commented: “Listening to the survivor’s testimony suddenly became very personal - these atrocities endured can never be allowed to happen again.”

Indeed, Ms Lewis highlighted the need for students to challenge all those who deny the Holocaust, practice hate or discriminate; we are the last generation to hear from Holocaust survivors directly and so it is up to us to fulfil the promise of “never again.”

A week later, on a dark cold morning, we departed for Krakow, Poland. Whilst apprehensive of visiting the site of a genocide, my desire to learn had been reinforced.

On arrival at the town of Oświęcim, renamed Auschwitz by the Nazis, we met with Londonbased Rabbi Shaw. He explained that the town, which once had a majority Jewish population, now had no Jewish community at all - a poignant fact emphasising the human element of the Holocaust; it was clear what had been lost.

Standing upon the heartbreakingly empty site of The Great Synagogue, we heard beautiful but tragic poetry describing the congregation’s horror when they discovered their Synagogue in ruins and the Tora scrolls stolen.

With this in mind, we continued on to Auschwitz One. Our first sight was of the infamous gates that provided false hope to all those who entered, inscribed “Arbeit macht frei” - work sets you free.

Over a million people who read those words would never experience freedom again.

Our guide was born in Oświęcim and provided us with an invaluable wealth of knowledge. She discussed the personal difficulties that came with living so close to the ever-present reminder of suffering that is Auschwitz.

The bleak former barracks now house a mass of personal artefacts that had been taken from prisoners upon their arrival: a heap of shoes hundreds of them - from infants to adults; piles of glasses, combs, and a display of prosthetic limbs. My lingering memory is of a small, red toy car which could have been carried in a young boy’s pocket. Many families had packed for a hopeful future, anticipating that domestic life would continue. The sorrowful sight of these discarded belongings bought many to tears. These victims were just like you and I; innocent individuals with their own personalities, hopes and dreams.

A corridor displayed pictures of female SS officers enjoying a day off at a picnic, the shadow of Auschwitz still present in the background.

This emphasised an uneasy truth; these perpetrators were not too dissimilar to ourselves.

Blinded by hatred, and desensitised to their heinous actions, but still human.

Felix Thompson later explained: “Although the

A special feature by Woodroffe School student Tommy Brown following a recent trip to the former concentration camp

sight was right in front of me, I still found it impossible to imagine the scale of the horrific acts that took place only meters away.”

Then it was time. We were shown the gas chambers and the connecting crematorium. The hole in the ceiling, used to pour in the gas, was still present. I have no words for this experience.

No words seem enough. No words can explain the injustice or the horrific plight of all those who died. No words are enough.

However, before we left Auschwitz One we were given a reminder that hope is present even in the darkest of times; a room full of pictures of the descendants of survivors. A reminder that Hitler didn’t win and that the Jewish community, and faith, continues.

Down a long straight road, we approached Auschwitz Birkenau, home to the notorious train tracks which carried so many to their untimely deaths. The scale of this second camp is indescribable. Cattle sheds are arranged in rows,

skirted by barbed wire and guard towers for as far as the eye can see. The iconic image of the imposing guard house above the train track is constantly visible.

Once more we faced a crematoria, which still housed furnaces.

In the adjacent room, Rabbi Shaw led an impassioned and deeply personal memorial service. He shared concerns that the Holocaust could happen again; his London congregation receive abuse on a daily basis, and he fears for his own children’s future in the UK. He worries that a country which once fought against fascism, and was a bastion of tolerance, is now showing an ingrained indifference towards different races, religions and political ideologies.

He called for us to reach across divides with the acknowledgment that, “we are all human.”

Thanks to Rabbi Shaw we left with a desire to fulfil the promise of “never again,” to fight against prejudice and to show compassion to all.

Celebrating Chinese New Year THE Woodroffe School library played host to a range of events to celebrate the Chinese New Year in February.

Mrs Choy provided an amazing range of display items, including lanterns, hanging decorations, paper crafts, examples of Chinese books, and lots of informational posters.

Over three lunchtimes, students took part in a wide range of activities organised by Mrs Choy, including Chinese calligraphy, Chinese opera masks painting, paper crafts include lantern making and Chinese New Year window decoration, ‘Hui Chun’ writing (blessing words on red paper) and a competition to see who had remembered facts from the display boards.

Chocolate gold coins in traditional red envelopes were given out as prizes.

School librarian Mr Waters commented: “It was a fantastic few days, the students really

enjoyed all of the activities and learnt lots about the Chinese New Year traditions.

“Many thanks to Mrs Choy for all her hard work to make this such a memorable event in the library.”

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LYME REGIS TOWN COUNCIL School kids pick favourite design for play area LOCAL schoolchildren have been choosing their favourite design for a Lyme Regis play park.

We will be refurbishing the park at Henry’s Way this spring/summer and wanted to get the opinions of the real play experts – children!

The park, which was built as part of the Admiral Heights housing development, is underused and in need of updating.

We have secured almost £30,000 from West Dorset District Council through section 106 funding, and the remainder will be funded by the town council.

This funding has been ringfenced specifically for play parks, and as the council owns the town’s two parks, no-one else would realistically be able to apply for this funding.

Although the public may consider there are other priorities in the town, the funding could only be used for this purpose, so it

was a case of ‘use it or lose it’.

Five play park companies were asked to submit designs and councillors have narrowed it down to their two preferred schemes.

Children at St Michael’s Primary School in Lyme Regis and Mrs Ethelston’s Primary School in Uplyme were asked to vote for their favourite.

Their verdict will be reported back to councillors at the Full Council meeting on March, 20 when a final decision will be made.

The designs included a basket swing, roundabout, climbing tower, track rider, talk tubes, springers, and trampoline, but the final features will depend on the chosen scheme.

It is hoped the park will have greater use when the new equipment is installed, offering another valuable amenity for the community.

Providing transport for those most in need

■ THE new pitched roof beach huts have arrived on the seafront this week. The council is replacing all its pastel-coloured huts on the Cart Road over the next three years, with the first 12 already in place. We offered the old huts for sale for £50 and the response was overwhelming.

Several people were waiting outside the office at 7.30am to grab themselves a hut and the phones started ringing as soon as the lines were open. All 12 huts were gone by 9.08am! But don’t worry if you missed out – there’ll be another 12 available to buy next year, and a further 12 the following year.

opposed to this development, which has been given planning approval by West Dorset District Council, we have given permission for ground investigations to be carried out at the site.

Although this is an essential part of establishing the extent of any ground works, this does not change the council’s position or prejudice any future position we may take.

The investigation works will be carried out during the first week of April and will involve a small drilling rig on site on 3 and 4 April.

As one of our major concerns has been the lack of supporting information so far, it is hoped the investigation works will provide critical details and demonstrate whether the scheme is viable or not.

COUNCILLORS will have their work cut out deciding how to allocate grants to 26 local organisations this month.

We invited grant applications from local groups and organisations for communitybased projects.

We have around £40,000 available, but with the applications totalling almost £51,000, councillors will have some tough decisions to make.

Funding bids have come from a range of organisations, covering sports, entertainment, support groups, social clubs, young people, and the environment.

We’re pleased to see applications from newly-formed organisations or those who haven’t applied before.

The council will hold a special meeting on Wednesday, March 27 to consider the applications and allocate the funding.

Countdown to polling day!

Permission granted for ground investigation works on seafront THE council has given permission for ground investigation works to be carried out ahead of the proposed demolition of a seafront property.

We opposed plans to demolish a bungalow on Marine Parade and replace it with a three-storey house.

Our Planning Committee had serious concerns about the proposal, particularly regarding land stability at the rear of the site, the absence of expert geotechnical advice, and the lack of plans for a retaining construction.

Other concerns included the duration of the build, the impact on Marine Parade and Cart Road, the impact on public access and traders, and the design of the proposed new building.

While the town council remains

Council grants to be allocated this month

DID you know there is a community transport service operating in Lyme Regis which collects you from your own front door?

Axe Valley and West Dorset Ring and Ride provides transport for the elderly, disabled, parents with young children or people living in isolated areas where there is no adequate public transport.

The council has been pleased to financially support this service for many years, the most recent grant being for £2,500.

We recognise the importance of this service to local residents, with over 5,500 return journeys taken by Lyme Regis passengers in 2018.

The service has been operating since 2001 and provides door-todoor shopping trips, at reasonable

fares, to towns in West Dorset and East Devon.

There is also a Passenger Club for each zone which offers a weekly afternoon trip and a day trip on one Saturday each month.

The annual membership fee is £10 and trips include Sidmouth, Otter Nurseries, Sherborne, the Somerset Levels, Weymouth and Dorchester, Lynton and Lynmouth, Glastonbury, Wells, and Swanage.

The service encompasses isolated rural areas and offers a lifeline to many who may find other forms of transport inappropriate or simply lacking.

For further information and details about any of the trips available please contact the ring and ride office on 01404 46520.

THE election timetable is now well underway and the countdown to polling day has begun.

Nomination forms are now available and the notice of election is due to be published today (Friday).

Anyone who wants to stand for election must submit their nomination forms by 4pm on April 3.

On April 4, we find out if there will be an election for Lyme Regis Town Council – if there are 14 or less candidates, they will be declared elected without a public vote.

Polling day is on Thursday, May 2, when the first election to the new Dorset Council will also be held.

Nomination packs for both unitary and town/parish council candidates are available from the town council office or at www.dorsetforyou.gov.uk

JOB ALERT: See advertisement for Temporary Finance Officer on page 22

THIS CONTENT IS PROMOTED BY LYME REGIS TOWN COUNCIL

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MUSIC | THEATRE | WHAT’S ON | COMPETITIONS

Jazz Jurassica - signed, sealed delivered!

THIS year’s Jazz Jurassica in Lyme Regis will deliver its most ambitious programme to date promising gutsy gospel, blistering blues, funky brass and sassy swing.

For the very first time a gospel choir, Powerhouse Gospel Choir, will bring the annual music festival to a rapturous finale at Marine Theatre on Sunday, May 26.

Powerhouse live up to their name, setting pulses racing and spirits soaring with their gutsy renditions of traditional and contemporary secular songs. Many are former members of the acclaimed London Community Gospel Choir and have since gone onto work with the likes of Quincy Jones, Pharrell Williams and Florence and the Machine.

Festival organiser Julie Sheppard said: “We’re delighted to welcome these fabulous performers to Lyme Regis, especially as so much soul, funk and R&B have roots deep in gospel music. It’s the first time we’ve featured a gospel choir so it will be a very special evening for us, and a rare musical treat for the audience.”

Making a welcome return appearance at the festival is Laurence Jones, the guitar wizard dubbed by many as the next Eric Clapton.

Since last at the festival he’s matured as a performer adding a Hammond player to his new band and a new album freshly minted in Miami.

His live performances are electrifying and seal his reputation as the most exciting artist on the British blues circuit.

Opening the festival, Kick Ass Brass, a 10-strong band featuring some of the best jazz and funk

musicians in the country aim to shake up Friday night. They rip it up with hot horns and a powerful rhythm section to follow in the footsteps of funk legends Tower of Power, James Brown and Earth Wind and Fire.

The band will feature the young, multi-talented, Eleisha May, whose smoky soulful vocals add spine-tingling magic to the set.

Festival favourites, Matt Carter and Leigh Coleman will make their big stage debut in ‘Signed, Sealed, Delivered’, their jazzy, fingerclicking interpretation of Stevie Wonder.

“We’re also hosting some special international guests”, added Julie.

“Equinor is a 24-piece big band from Norway making their only UK appearance this year at our festival. They’ll be celebrating the legacy of the king of swing, Duke Ellington, in a spectacular concert in Marine Theatre. It’s great they’ve chosen to play in Lyme Regis.

We just hope we can fit them all on stage!

“Whether you’re into funky brass or cool jazz, you’ll find it at the festival - somewhere.

For example, this year we’ve added a special event on Bank Holiday Monday - a brunch devoted to the effortless cool of Dave Brubeck.

“And we’ve also got lots of free events on the seafront and venues around town featuring scores of talented musicians.

It’s full steam ahead for another great music-packed weekend”.

Jazz Jurassica will be held from Friday, May 24 to Monday, May 27. More information on events and tickets are available at www.jazzjurassica.co.uk and in the free printed programme available from April.

POWERHOUSE Gospel Choir will close the Jazz Jurassic festival, with others acts on the bill including 24piece Norwegian big band Equinor (below) and guitarist Laurence Jones (inset)

The Stones to play Lyme Regis The UK’s number one and most authentic tribute to The Rolling Stones is bringing all the hits to the stage of the Marine Theatre in Lyme Regis, from ‘Satisfaction’ to ‘Brown Sugar’.

With all the energy and charisma of The Rolling Stones themselves, The Stones pay an accurate and faithful tribute to the sound and look of an authentic Rolling Stones show.

Far from being simply ‘lookalikes’, The Stones have the closest to Mick Jagger on the scene.

The group pay great attention to the sound and feel of the music, all performed with the same accuracy, passion, energy, and verve of the originals.

Complete with authentic vintage instruments, costume and mannerisms, The Stones are experienced musicians having played at venues across the globe.

Since forming in 2007, their show has grown into a full-scale Rolling Stones concert, leaving

audiences mesmerised up and down the UK, Europe, and further abroad.

The group has experienced audiences of more than 30,000 people while headlining festivals, and also regularly tour Europe in Holland, Belgium, Germany, and Spain.

THE STONES FRIDAY, APRIL 19, MARINE THEATRE Bar opens 7pm for 8pm start Tickets £12 in advance or £14 on the door Call 01297 442138 or visit www.marinetheatre.com ■ IN the last issue of LymeOnline we printed a list of dates for major festivals and events taking place in Lyme Regis this year. We apologise for omitting Guitars On The Beach, which will be held on Saturday, June 15 with an all-day programme of live music scheduled from 10am onwards. For full details of the event visit guitarsonthebeach.com/

The Harbour Inn celebration - see page 11

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Celebrating 100 years of song O

NE of the town’s most respected organisations, Lyme Regis Musical Theatre (formerly the Operatic Society), is preparing to celebrate its 100th

anniversary.

The society was formed in 1920 and performed its first show, ‘The Mikado’, at the Marine Theatre when it was known as The Drill Hall in 1921.

A SCENE from the 1964 production of ‘HMS Pinnafore’. Among those pictured are Gordon Broom, Ron Hercock, Bill Creber, Arthur Fordham, Philip Curtis and Charlie Broom

Since then, with the exception of the Second World War years, the society has performed no fewer than 84 productions, including some of the most popular hits seen on Broadway and in the West End. The first six shows staged by the society were all Gilbert & Sullivan operettas - ‘The Mikado’ (1921 and 1926), ‘The Pirates of Penzance’ (1922), ‘HMS Pinafore’ (1923), ‘Iolanthe’ (1924) and ‘Yeomen of The Guard’ in 1925.

The society then moved away from the tried and tested G & S productions by staging ‘The Country Girl’, an American play written in the 18th century which became a long-running musical in London in the early 1900s, followed by ‘The Highwayman Love’, a light romantic operetta, also set in Elizabethan times, and ‘The Arcadians’, an Edwardian musical comedy.

The last show before war broke out in 1939 was Gilbert & Sullivan’s ‘The Gondoliers’ and they did not return to the Marine Theatre, occupied by American GIs in the war years, until 1948 when the society reformed to stage ‘The Yeoman of The Guard’ again.

During the 1950s and 1960s the society performed all the popular stage operettas and built a loyal following, introducing to the stage such performers as Elaine Kendrick (nee Broom), Liz Broome (nee Searle), David Coates, John Wallis, Harry Williams, Charlie Broom, Gordon Broom and Les White, all of whom became firm favourites with audiences over the years.

Well known local faces who took leading roles up until that time included Albert Lane, Phil Moore, Roland Stratton, Molly Wiscombe and Jesse Searle.

Highlight of the 1970s was the society’s 50th anniversary, celebrated by performing their own home-grown show, ‘Golden Revenge’, written jointly by musical director Brian Manners and producer Roy Deasy, which they also staged at the Northcott Theatre in Exeter, a huge achievement for an amateur group.

The society also held a Golden Jubilee dinner at the Woodroffe School at which toasts were made by president Albert Lane, who appeared in ‘The Mikado’ in 1938; Alderman Phil Moore, who was in ‘HMS Pinnafore’ in 1923; Norman Bosence (‘Highwayman Love’, 1928 and stage manager 1948-54); Reg Pocock, who was musical director and producer (1956-64); Brian Manners (musical director, 1966-70); and Roy Deasy (producer, 1966-70). The toastmaster was Charlie Broom.

Throughout the 1980s and 90s Lyme Regis Operatic Society built on its reputation, mixing the traditional operettas with more challenging the-

atre shows and attracting other talented performers from around the area. The society reprised ‘Golden Revenge’ to celebrate their 90th anniversary in 2010. In 2015 they changed their name to Lyme Regis Musical Theatre to fall in line with public demand for the blockbuster musical shows so popular with theatregoers..

The encouragement to take on some of the more challenging productions came from Nick Lawrence who spent 18 years as musical director and producer before going on to be elected National President of the National Operatic and Dramatic Association. Mr Lawrence was elected a Honorary Life Member for his services to the society.

In recent years LRMT have staged such popular musicals as ‘Me And My Girl’, ‘Calamity Jane’, ‘Mame’, ‘Evita’, ‘Sister Act’, ‘Thoroughly Modern Millie’, ‘Hello Dolly’ and are hard at it rehearsing for this year’s production of Cole Porter’s ‘Anything Goes’, last performed by them in 2005, between May 14-18.

The society has also switched venue from the Marine Theatre to the Woodmead Halls to take advantage of increased capacity but will be returning to their true home at the Marine to celebrate their centenary with a concert version of their very first show ‘The Mikado’, August 1 and 2 2020.

This year’s show, ‘Anything Goes’, also sees Kelly Apps (nee Street), one of the most popular stage performers in the area, taking her first role as director with the experienced Ian Crew as musical director and the much-in-demand Rachel Worsley as choreographer.

Organising shows of this calibre starts as soon as the current production is finished with licence and production costs rising all the time. That calls for an active committee, currently led from the front by Johanna Hopkins (nee Perry) whose family is steeped in the operatic society. Johanna (pictured) first appeared in the 1968 production of ‘Gypsy Baron’ and has only missed two shows since then.

Mrs Hopkins said: “We are looking forward to celebrating our 100th anniversary but concentrating all our efforts on the forthcoming production of ‘Anything Goes’.

“It’s a marvellous show with some wonderful music and we look forward to welcoming all our many supporters to the Woodmead Halls for what I am sure will be great evening’s entertainment.”

‘Anything Goes’ will take place at the Woodmead Halls from May 14 to 18. Tickets available from Lyme Regis Tourist Information Centre (01297 442138).

THE cast of ‘Golden Revenge’, the show written and performed to celebrate Lyme Regis Operatic Society’s 50th anniversary in 1970 which was also performed at the Northcott Theatre in Exeter and again in 2010

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MUSIC | THEATRE | WHAT’S ON | COMPETITIONS

What’s on...

Friday, March 15

Music: Sam Kelly’s Station House Marine Theatre, 7pm The much cherished blues musician brings his ‘groove band’ to the Marine Theatre, with dancing very much in mind. Tickets £8 in advance or £10 on the door - call 01297 442138 or visit Bar www.marinetheatre.com. opens 7pm for 8pm start.

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

Saturday, March 16

Red Nose Day Fitsteps Class Woodmead Halls, 10am Free Fitsteps class with instructor Sarah Causley, followed by coffee and cake with donations welcome for Comic Relief.

Music: Kathryn Roberts & Sean Lakeman, Marine Theatre, 7pm Dartmoor-based husband and wife folk duo. Tickets £14.50 in advance or £17 on the door - call 442138 or visit 01297 www.marinetheatre.com.

Bar opens 7pm for 8pm 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.

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

Sunday, March 17

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.

The Great Winter Nurdle Hunt Charmouth Coast Heritage Centre, 10am Beach clean focussing on clearing up nurdles – tony, colourful pellets used to make most of our plastic products. Meet at Charmouth Heritage Coast Centre at 10am, no need to book, just turn up and gloves and sensible wear footwear.

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, March 18

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 ac-

tivities and therapies available.

Tuesday, March 19

Talk: ‘Georgian Society in Bath and Lyme Regis’, Woodmead Halls, 2.30pm A talk for the Lyme Regis Society

by Amy Frost, senior curator at Bath Preservation Trust. All are welcome, entry is free for Lyme Regis Society members and £3 for visitors, including refreshments.

Wednesday, March 20

LRTC Full Council Guildhall, 7pm For agendas see www.lymeregistowncouncil.gov.uk Wednesday @ The Pilot The Pilot Boat, 8.30pm Weekly live music nights at the Pilot Boat, this week with Adam Sweet.

Thursday, March 21

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, March 22

Music: The South Marine Theatre, 7pm When pop act The Beautiful South split in 2007, some members felt like carrying on. Embarking on this new journey The South continues performing their classic hits. Tickets £25 in advance and £28 on the door - call 01297 442138 or visit www.marinetheatre.com.

Bar opens 7pm for 8pm start.

Friday @ The Pilot The Pilot Boat, 9pm Weekly live music nights at the Pilot Boat, this week with Jake and Grace.

Saturday, March 23

Coffee Morning & Jumble Sale Uplyme Village Hall, 10am A coffee morning and jumble sale in aid of Uplyme Village Hall.

Lyme Regis Comedy Club Marine Theatre, 7pm Headliner Glenn Moore is joined by three other comedians on the bill including resident compere Tom Glover. Tickets £8 in advance or £10 on the door - call 01297 442138 or visit www.marinetheatre.com. Bar opens 7pm for 8pm 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.

Sunday, March 24

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.

Jazz in the Bar Marine Theatre, 7pm Terry Quinney plays a concert dedicated to the music of multiGrammy winning Stan Getz in the Marine Theatre bar. Tickets £8 in advance or £12 on the door - call 01297 442138 or visit www.marinetheatre.com.

Bar opens 7pm for 8pm start. Please note this event is upstairs with limited seating.

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

Tuesday, March 26

Cinema: ‘Sullivan’s Travels’ Marine Theatre, 6.30pm 1940s satire about a Hollywood film director who longs to make socially relevant dramas. Tickets £5 in advance or £6.50 on the door - call 01297 442138 or visit www.marinetheatre.com.

Bar opens 6.30pm for 7.30pm start.

Wednesday, March 27

Wilde Wednesdays: ‘An Ideal Husband’ Marine Theatre, 6pm Continuing the Marine Theatre’s series of Oscar Wilde screenings, ‘An Ideal Husband’ was recorded at the Vaudeville Theatre in the

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

West End. Tickets £11 in advance or £14 on the door for adults, or £5 for under 18s - call 01297 442138 or visit www.marinetheatre.com.

Bar opens 6pm for 7pm start.

LRTC Extraordinary Full Council (local grants), Guildhall, 7pm For agendas see www.lymeregistowncouncil.gov.uk Planting Workshop: ‘Designing a Border’ Uplyme Village Hall, 7.15pm A designing/planting workshop to help you plan your own border with garden designer Sally Leaney.

All welcome, entry free for Uplyme & Lyme Regis Horticultural Society members or £3 for non-members.

Wednesday @ The Pilot The Pilot Boat, 8.30pm Weekly live music nights at the Pilot Boat.

Thursday, March 28

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, March 29

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

Friday, March 15 2019 17

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MARI NE THE EATRE LY M E R EGIS

KATHRYN ROBERT TS & SEAN LAKEMAN

HISTORIES OF THE UNEXPEC CTED

Saturday 6 Apriil | £10 ~ £14 advance

Saturday 16 March | £14.50 advance a

PENGUIN CAFE

THE STON NES

Friday 19 April | £12 advance

Friday 29 March | £20 advan nce

POSTING LETTERS TO THE MOON JULIE FELIX

Friday 5 April | £14 advance BOOKING FEE MAY APPLY 10% OFF FOR THEATRE FRIENDS

MARINETHEATRE.COM

Friday 26 April | £12.50 advance

TICKETS ONLINE MARINETHEATRE.COM LYME REGIS S TOURIST INFORMATION 01297 442138 BRIDPORT T TOURIST INFORMATION

18 Friday, March 15 2019

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Fiesta at the football club!

LYME Regis Football Club continued its fundraising efforts with a Mexican theme night earlier this month.

Players and supporters donned ponchos and sombreros for the party, where they also indulged in homemade Mexican chilli and tequila cocktails.

The Seasiders’ fundraising committee hosts a continuously busy programme of events to improve facilities at the Davey Fort ground in Charmouth Road, with a grandstand for supporters set to be constructed this summer.

The next fundraising event will be a football betting night on Saturday, April 13 - similar to a race night but with football video clips instead of horse racing. This will be followed by the next Sunday Lunch Club on Sunday, April 14 with a two-course roast dinner costing just £8.50 for adults or £4 for children - call Francesca Evans on 07810 221 420 to book in advance.

The club is also now looking ahead to its popular Sausage & Cider Festival, which will return for its third year on Saturday, July 6.

Church hosts pancake party ST Michael’s Parish Church hosted its annual pancake party to mark Shrove Tuesday earlier this month. The church hall was packed as volunteers served up pancakes with tea and coffee ahead of the period of Lent.

All money raised was split between the church and the town’s Get Together Club.

CHILDREN from St Michael’s Primary School in Lyme Regis took part in the international celebration World Book Day last week. The pupils dressed as their favourite book characters for the annual event, which encourages literacy among young people. The pupils have also been taking part in a Spring Reading Challenge set by English teacher Miss Smith. They were asked to create a ‘story jar’ decorating glass jars to represent their favourite book, with the lucky winners pictured below.

THE U3A tapestry ladies picture at the launch of their exhibition at the Woodmead Halls

Iconic views of Lyme captured by the U3A tapestry group UNIQUE views of Lyme Regis have been captured by a group of ladies who make up the tapestry group of the University of The Third Age (U3A) Heritage Coast Branch.

The 20 framed tapestries are being displayed at the Woodmead Halls so the people of the town can see their intricate work.

The tapestry ladies meet on a fortnightly basis and took two years to complete the set of Lyme views.

The ladies and other members of the U3A gathered at the halls on Friday evening to officially launch the tapestry exhibition.

Halls’ chairman Philip Evans MBE congratulated them on the quality of their work and

praised the U3A for the range of activities they organised for the senior members of the Lyme community.

Thanking the U3A for their support of the Woodmead Halls, Mr Evans took advantage of the occasion to also thank his team of volunteers who kept the halls in pristine condition, building on the work carried out by life president Stan Williams who took over the running of the halls in 1993 when it was on its last legs.

The Woodmead Halls will be open on Sunday mornings through the rest of March and April for the public to see the tapestries (10am to 12noon).

Friday, March 15 2019 19

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1 Bridge Street, Lyme Regis DT7 3QA 01297 443157

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20 Friday, March 15 2019

FLASHBACKS with Richard Austin

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Tales from behind the lens of our award-winning photographer

Capturing movie sets

IN three decades as a newspaper photographer I have covered more than a few filming productions, some for high profile movies, others for advertising and others involving pop stars making videos for a new album.

In 1995 Jane Austen’s ‘Sense and Sensibility’ was being filmed in several locations, including Montacute near Yeovil.

I was despatched by the Western Morning News to photograph whatever was on offer but the prize picture had to be Dame Emma Thompson - plain old Emma Thompson at that time. She had the starring role along with Kate Winslet, who is currently filming ‘Ammonite’ in Lyme Regis, Alan Rickman and Hugh Grant.

Emma wrote the screenplay herself and won an Oscar for the Best Adapted Screenplay and was nominated for Best Actress in a Leading Role.

So, here we all are in Lyme Regis and yet another motion picture being filmed (see page 7).

I have to say that, on most of the film sets I’ve covered, there was always a negative response to press photographers showing up just as there has been on ‘Ammonite’ so far.

But on arrival at Montacute in 1995, the sight of the village square transformed into a late 1800s market place was amazing. There were five press photographers who turned up and amazingly, after five minutes negotiation with the director, he agreed to give us a few minutes with Emma.

She was great to work with and even asked if we were all happy with what we had photographed. We all left, leaving the production company in peace which is how it should be.

‘Sense and Sensibility’ was directed by Ang Lee and based on Jane Austen's 1811 novel of the same name. Emma Thompson wrote the screenplay and starred as Elinor Dashwood, while Kate Winslet played Elinor's younger sister Marianne.

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

Friday, March 15 2019 21

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To advertise your business in our Local Services section from just £8 per insertion (minimim four week booking) call the LymeOnline office on 01297 442781 or email francesca@lyme-online.co.uk

classifieds&jobs

22 Friday, March 15 2019

ITEMS TO SELL? You can advertise items for sale up to £200 free by filling in the form below or emailing francesca@lyme-online.co.uk

Please note this service is only for private sellers, not for commercial items, tradespeople or vehicles. Please include a brief description of your item, the cost and a telephone number where a buyer may contact you.

If you wish to advertise an item over £200 your advertisement will cost 10p per word, please email or phone us to arrange payment. Please also include your name and address, although this will not be published.

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ITEMS FOR SALE

DRESS, long, red silk Laura Ashley from 1980, size 12, £25 - 01297 443327.

HOME HELPER TROLLEY aid for elderly, two trays, four wheels, cost £40 new, selling for just £10 - 01297 443930.

WAISTCOAT, black wool, embroidered fronts, from 1970, size 12, £25 - 01297 443327.

OLD SEWING MACHINE TABLE with machine that rotates up, £45 - 01297 443930.

SWIVEL RECLINER CHAIR, cream real leather, good conditions, from non-smoking home with no dogs, £50 - 01297 561552.

LEATHER POUFFE, very large, dark green, oval shape, free - 01297 443419.

BESKET FOOD PROCESSOR with blender, chopper, juicer & 1.5L mixer bowl, new, still boxed, £20 - 01297 443118.

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JASON VALE FUSION JUICER, as new, including Funky Juice book, £35 - 01297 442620.

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Lyme Regis Amusement Arcade

STAFF WANTED Full and part-time positions available CV required Apply at the Amusement Aracde on Marine Parade, Lyme Regis

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Wooodmead d Halls H LY M E R E G I S

Temporary Finance Officer Fixed-term contract of up to six months 37 hours per week Salary c.£30,000 pro-rata

Lyme Regis Town Council is a major stakeholder in the local tourist economy, managing the seafront, car parks and gardens.

Its activities are supported by an extensive property portfolio which generates an annual income of around £1.5m.

The town council is seeking to appoint a finance officer on a temporary fixed-term contract for up to six months to work alongside an existing member of the finance team to help manage its finances and associated processes.

The primary focus of the job will be to deal with year-end accounting processes.

The ideal candidate will be AAT qualified or CCAB part (at least)-qualified.

They should also be a good communicator with a ‘can do’ attitude.

An application pack can be obtained from the town council’s website www.lymeregistowncouncil.gov.uk or by telephoning 01297 445175.

To find out more about this position, contact Mark Green, deputy town clerk on the number above.

The closing date for applications is noon on Monday 1 April 2019.

Interviews will be held on Friday 5 April 2019.

are looking to appoint a community minded person to act as Secretary to the Management Committee Ideally candidates should possess the following attributes: Good Secretarial skills Good organisational skills ● A knowledge of social media ● Excellent people skills ● A basic knowledge of book keeping ● ●

The successful candidate will be expeced to: Attend a minimum of six Management Committee meetings per annum ● Send out Agendas and keep the Minutes of Management Committee meetings ● Deal with all correspondence and administration ● Provide regular content for the Woodmea Halls website ●

The Secretary will receive an Honorarium of £2,000 per annum paid in twelve monthly payments.

Applications to Philip Evans, Chairman of the Management Committee at philip@lyme-online.co.uk

Friday, March 15 2019 23

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LymeOnline Sport cribbage

email your sports reports to edit@lyme-online.co.uk

football

Ship Inn and Dolphin make the running THE Ship INN have opened up a six-point lead at the top of the Lyme Regis Cribbage League, having won 15 of their 22 games.

Axminster Conservative Club, with 13 victories, are lying in second place with Colyton Club in third.

In the Beer Leg, Dolphin Beer lead the pack with a two-point lead over Colyton Club.

Results (week 22): Royal Standard 4, Stepps 1 (B/L 1-2); Colyton Club 4, Dolphin 1 (B/L 2-1); New Inn A 2, Ship 1 (B/L 2-1); Gerrard Arms 0, New Inn B 2 (B/L 0-3); Lamb Swans 2, Hind Musbury 1 (B/L); Talbot Arms 1, Axminster Conservative Club 2 (B/L 2-3).

Fixtures for Monday, Martch 25: Ladies and men’s singles competition to be played at the Lamb Inn (7.15 for 7.30 pm start).

P W L Pts Ship Lyme 22 15 7 66 Ax Con Club 22 13 9 60 Colyton Club 22 12 10 59 Hind Musbury 22 12 10 58 Dolphin Beer 22 12 10 56 Lamb Swans 22 11 11 56 New Inn Kil A 22 12 10 55 Stepps 22 12 10 52 Talbot Uplyme 22 9 13 52 New In. Kil B 22 7 15 51 Rotal Stand Lyme 22 11 11 50 Gerard Colyton 22 6 16 41

skittles

In-form Rovers hit five to win a place in the Fowler cup final LYME Rovers got a measure of revenge over Perry Street Division Three promotion rivals by thoroughly and convincingly beating them 5-0 to reach the final of the John Fowler Cup.

Turning up with a full squad and selection headaches for joint managers Niall Davis and Rob Larcombe, the Seasiders were given an extra lift when Winsham, currently leading Division Three with just a point advantage over the Seasiders, arrived with a bare 11 men (the 12th man arrived later).

The first half began tentatively, although the Rovers had the pick of the chances with Ollie Alner and Pete Peacock going close whilst Scott Meters very nearly caught the Winsham keeper napping with a shot from inside his own half which was fumbled wide.

The breakthrough came at 40 minutes after Josh Rawlins volleyed Larcombe’s corner into the box where two Winsham defenders made a hash of it to send Lyme into a 1-0 lead from an own goal.

The Seasiders increased their lead

PHILIP EVANS

philip@lyme-online.co.uk two minutes later when star man Callum Taylor battled through the midfield before hitting a low shot that awkwardly slipped through the keeper’s grasp.

Winsham lost a key central midfielder in the first half to a hamstring injury and the message was clear to the Rovers – keep working hard and try to tire the older Winsham legs.

A tricky ten minutes after half time were handled well by the faultless Seasiders’ backline and the game was effectively sealed when Pete Peacock slotted home a third.

After Larcombe was cynically tripped on the edge of the area, Finlay McLean stepped up and unleashed a whipped-in free-kick to make it four.

Substitute Darius Pickering netted the fifth and final goal after good work from skipper Niall Davis and Jonny Day. The Rovers will meet Combe A in the final to be played on Easter Monday (April 24), kick-off 3pm.

football

Wobblers on top Tigers tamed at Brixham LADIES DIVISION P W W/Wobblers 10 10 Hot Gossips 10 7 La Creme 10 6 Smashers 10 6 Skittso’s 10 5 Generations 10 4 Rollercoasters 10 1 Pin Pals 10 1

D 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

L 0 3 4 4 5 6 9 9

PtsB/L 20 14 12 8 12 9 12 9 10 14 8 13 2 10 2 3

MEN’S DIVISION ONE No Hopers Anthill Mob Marksmen Roadrunners Wreckers Flyers Young Guns Trappers

10 8 10 7 10 6 10 5 10 3 10 3 10 3 10 3

0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

2 3 3 5 7 7 7 7

18 14 14 10 6 6 6 6

10 14 11 11 12 10 10 2

16 14 12 10 8 8 6 4

6 10 12 12 12 10 6 10

MEN’S DIVISION TWO Rousdon Rebels 10 8 Clueless 9 7 British Legion 9 6 Alleytwits 10 5 Miscellaneous 10 4 President’s Men 10 4 Skittle Me Timb 10 3 Shakers 10 2

0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

2 2 3 5 6 6 7 8

Southwest Peninsula League – East Division Brixham AFC 1 Axminster Town 0 THE Tigers travelled to South Devon in good shape and knowing that a win for either side would be massive.

The visitors started well and looked dangerous going forward with wing back Kieran Daniels supporting the front play superbly well.

Brixham did well to stay in the game in the early stages and needed to use all of their experience to do so, slowing the game down as much as possible.

By the 25th minute the home side started to have their success in the contest with Robbie Bowker pulling all the strings for the Blues. With no real goal mouth chances in the first half, the players went in with the score at 0-0.

Brixham started the second period slightly better, putting the Tigers side under some pressure from a succession of crosses.

On the 60th minute the deadlock was broken a crossed ball was cleared by the Tigers’ defence but they switched off for the second phase of play with the ball being delivered back across the goal, with Steve Bowker’s

whose header looping past the outstretched Tigers’ keeper Ashley Smith nestling into the bottom corner.

Axminster rallied and introduced Devon under 18 starlet Charley Skilton who made an immediate impact.

Skilton’s passing was excellent and allowed Ashley Small and Tony Pinder some bright moments.

In the 70th minute Brixham’s James Spence saw red after dragging Tigers’ Tony Pinder to the floor by his hair, right in front of the match official.

The extra man advantage allowed the Tigers to have the majority of possession, but Brixham were too experienced to be overrun, putting everyone behind the ball, and expertly dealing with Axminster’s attacking intent.

Late on The Tigers had to thank Dan Beer for his defending as the tigers were caught out on several occasions as they looked for the equaliser.

On the 85th minute the home keeper broke the Tigers’ hearts by pulling off a terrific save from Cameron Vere’s 20- yard powerful drive.

The Tigers have to dust themselves off quickly as they travel to an inform Crediton Unitewd this evening (Friday, kick-off 7.30 pm) Man-of -the Match Dan Beer

Grandstand plans for the Davey Fort SUBJECT to plans being approved by West Dorset District Council, Lyme Regis Football Club will soon commence the construction of a grandstand at the Davey Fort.

The project wil be part of the four-year Project Fortify to develop the social and playing facilities at the Charmouth Road ground for which Lyme Regis Town Council is providing a grant totalling £100,000.

The first phase of the project was the construction of a modern kitchen. Phase two is the provision of the grandstand and the final phase to be completed in the 2019-2020 season will be a new drainage scheme for the football ground.

The project is being match funded by the football club which has to raise £38,000 towards the three stages.

The grandstand will provide 63 seats with a space for three

wheelchairs and will be erected on the southern boundary of the ground, sited between the clubhouse and the dug out.

A planning application and geotechnical report has been submitted to West Dorset planners and if approval is forthcoming construction work should commence in June of this year and should be available for fans next season.

The project is being co-ordinated by former club manager Tim Edwards and current first teamer Mark Bailey.

The club has also started working with Dorset FA to come up with a complete drainage programme for the notoriously wet Davey Fort ground.

The old pitch in Sidmouth Road had a huge wooden stand which was constructed by volunteers led by a former president, Gordon Broom.

golf

First seniors’ Stableford of the year

By Richard Jackman

THE first Seniors’ stableford of the year at Lyme Regis Golf Club was well supported given the forecast, with nearly 50 people taking part.

Division One was close, as Colin Preece won with 38 points, scoring 5 x 3 pointers on the back nine whilst John Coley and Neil Leggett both finished with 37 points. Both Coley and Leggett scored 20 on the back nine but a point a hole on the 17th and 18th cost Leggett second place to Coley.

Division Two was more clearcut as Barry Peters-King started off brilliantly with 22 points on the front nine to come in with the best score of the day – 39 points to take top spot. Both Kevin Unwin and Tim Sansom finished on 33 points and both had 17 on the back nine, but Unwin’s excep-

tional nine points on the last three holes saw him take second whilst Sansom was third.

As the aftermath of storm Freya abounded, the Ladies valiantly played their first medal and although not a qualifier because of temporary greens, Sandra Barclay impressed with a nett 75, playing very well around the turn.

Jill Swainson played a gritty and improving back nine to finish on 77, while Susan Moore just fell away on the final few holes but still ended third on 78.

Ros Clemmans was the best medal qualifier in 2018 so goes through to represent Lyme Regis Ladies in the area competition sponsored by Bridgestone golf.

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LymeOnline Sport

24 Friday, March 15 2019

March 15 2019

the previous heat. They maintained their position despite having to pause for a minute or two after clashing oars with another gig just prior to the penultimate turn. They finished 1.11.14. Position 51 out of 76 The two Mens’ crews were drawn in the same heat, so a head-to-head clash was on the cards. However, the A crew got caught up with another crew just before the off and when they started they had over 15 boat lengths to make up. They soon draw up on the supervets crew and eventually dug deep to pass the more experienced Lyme rowers, beating them but just a few seconds. Final positions: A crew 23rd, supervets 24th.

This event is the first measure of how crews have trained through the winter and these results bode really well for Lyme.

Lyme will be attending Dart Regatta in April before all eight crews head off for battle in the Scillies World Championships on the first weekend of May. Look out for news on how you can follow the races. GigRower Facebook page is the best place for live coverage and updates.

LYME Regis Gig Club Ladies B who finished 14 places higher than last year in the Three Rivers race at Saltash

LYME Regis Gig Club Ladies B team pictured with chairman Marcus Dixon at the Three Rivers race in Saltash

Vine robbed of hat-trick

LYME Regis 1st team retained their fourth place in the Devon & Exeter top flight with a 3-1 win over Heavitree United at the Davey Fort, a scoreline that flattered the Exeter visitors who were outclassed in the second half.

It was a pretty dour first half with both sides struggling on the slippery surface and the Seasiders just about deserved their 1-0 advantage at halftime, the goal not coming until the 40th minute from a well placed freekick by Rob Fellingham, awarded for the Heavitree keeper handling the ball outside the box.

Lyme lost striker Sam PollardJones with a hamstring injury after 24 minutes, to be replaced by the inform Ben Vine who started on the substitutes’ bench because of a knee injury sustained in training.

The Seasiders’ only other real scoring chance in the first half came when Jaime Rodriguez’s scrambled effort bounced off the bar, but it would not have counted as he was ruled offside.

It was a different story after the

NOW IN THE DEVON & EXETER PREMIER LEAGUE

Saturday, March 16 Lyme Regis Reserves v Alphington 3rds Kick-off 3pm

Lyme hit form for Cronies

Going gets tough in Three Rivers race LYME Regis Gig Club took part in the notorious Three Rivers race in Saltash.

Seventy-six gigs competed in this endurance race, battling strong currents and this year the added delight of some seriously strong winds.

The competitive Lyme Ladies sent their A and B crews with the men fielding their A crew and supervets crew.

The Ladies set off first. The A crew had a bit of a messy start but once they got moving they flew up the first leg hitting 10mph and taking the lead in the group.

After the turn on the north end of the course, they turned straight into strong current and wind, comparable to a toughest training session the whole way up the longest leg of the race. But with coxwain Jane Mowatt driving the crew on, they overtook boat after boat until we they were racing with boats from the heat in front. They then had Bridport in sight at this stage, about two boat lengths ahead. The last leg was really exhausting but they put everything left into getting to the finish line, finishing 14 places up on last year.

Time: 1.06.31. Position 24 out of 76 The Ladies B had a good start and quickly gained third position in their heat and even overtook two gigs from

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break when Lyme looked more dangerous with Ben Vine causing all sorts of trouble up front. Three minutes into the half he blazed the ball over the bar and two minutes later he was on hand to steer home the rebound from a sizzling shot from Fred Parsons which the keeper could only parry.

Vine, who looks somewhere near the form he showed in the later stages of Lyme’s promotion run last season, was in the thick of things again when he turned on the edge of the box to fire the ball home to make it 3-0.

A big cheer went up from the Lyme crowd when former top scorer Joe Bond replaced Rodriguez for his first run-out with the first team, a somewhat inauspicious start with two mistakes and a yellow card for a mistimed tackle in his first two minutes on the pitch. But he looked full of running and he will be a big asset to the Seasiders’ run-in to the end of the season when he regains his touch.

Vine (pictured) had the chance to complete a hat-trick when a cross from Bond was handled in the box

FEATURED GAME PHILIP EVANS

philip@lyme-online.co.uk

but his spot-kick was brilliantly saved by the visiting keeper diving to his right.

Man-of-match Vine was again denied the hat-trick when he seized on a deft pass from Parsons, rounded a defender and the placed the ball out of reach of the keeper. The referee gave the goal but then changed his mind after consulting with the linesman, much to the chagrin of the home supporters who were left puzzled by who was offside. During the same incident the Heavitree centre half was sin-binned for mouthing off at the ref.

With only a couple on minutes before the final whistle, Heavitree pulled one back with a free kick.

This was by no means a classic encounter but with all the top sides in the Premier division winning, the three points kept Lyme in the frame for a top five place with seven games to play Lyme Regis Reserves’ away Devon & Exeter Division Four game at Teignmouth last Saturday was called off due to a waterlogged pitch.

The 1st team were due to meet Sidmouth Town in the Morrison Bell Cup on Tuesday evening but that game, too, was called off after heavy rain during the day.

ARGUABLY the best side in the Devon & Exeter League Premier Division, the Exeter-based Cronies provides Lyme Regis 1st team with one of its toughest challenges this weekend.

Cronies, a former pub side, share ground facilities with Topsham Town and if the early week rains continued the fixture could well be postponed.

Had they had their own ground, Cronies would now be playing in the South West Peninsular Division One East.

Cronies are not quite the force they were last season but they are sitting comfortably in fifth place in the Premier division, having only lost two of their 18 games, one place behind Lyme but with three games in hand.

If they won all three of those games, they could end up in the runners-up spot behind leaders Exwick Villa who at present have a six-point lead over second placed Colyton after 22 games.

Lyme are in good form with their big players firing on all cylinders so if the fixture goes ahead it could throw up one of the shocks of the day.

Lyme Reserves also face a tough challenge with a home game at home to Alphington 3rds, in third place in Division Four, two places ahead of the Seasiders’ second string but having played to more games.

Lyme Rovers face an away trip to Chard Rangers Reserves in Division Three of the Perry Street League.

Cricket Club prepares for the new season AFTER a difficult seasoin last year, Uplyme & Lyme Regis Cricketers are looking forward to the start of the new campaign.

Last season the club found it difficult to field two teams but this year they have dropped down to just one.

The first game will be a practice match at home to Crewkerne on Saturday, April 27, followed by midweek nets at the ground.

During the close season the pavilion at the King George V playing field has gone through a number of imporvements with new double doors opening onto the ground fromythe clubroom, financed by a grant from the 106 planning gain money.

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

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