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FOR LYME REGIS, UPLYME & CHARMOUTH ● FORTNIGHTLY ● MARCH 23 2018 ● www.lyme-online.co.uk
Residents told to be ‘security conscious’ POLICE have advised Lyme Regis residents to be more security conscious. Police Community Support Officer Amanda King, who started covering the area in November, has said that while Lyme Regis is a very safe place to live, residents were “perhaps not as security conscious as they should be”. The advice follows a spate of thefts from work vehicles and outbuildings in the area. REPORT, PAGE 3
Locals move into new affordable housing THE Red Arrows have appeared in Lyme Regis annually for more than 40 years, except during bad weather, but will not be appearing this summer as the applied for date clashes with one of the team’s engineering days. This photo shows them refuelling at Exeter Airport Photo by Richard Austin
No Red Arrows for Lyme this summer
NEW residents of Lyme Regis Community Land Trust’s first development are celebrating after moving into their new homes. All 15 affordable units of the Garmans Field development, off Timber Hill, have been allocated to individuals and young families with a connection to Lyme Regis but they were 300 per cent oversubscribed with many still on the waiting list for affordable housing. REPORT, PAGE 8
Golfers bid to break quickest round record AS part of their 125th anniversary, members of Lyme Regis Golf Club will be striving to get into the Guinness Book of Records for the fastest round of golf by multiple players. The current record of 13 minutes, 42 seconds is held by Farnham Golf Club in Surrey having used 80 players. The Lyme club will attempt to better that on Friday, July 13 as part of a week of activities. REPORT, PAGES 24
CRACK AEROBATIC TEAM WILL NOT GRACE SKIES OF LYME BAY
THE Red Arrows have confirmed they are unable to appear in Lyme Regis this summer.
The disappointing news came in a tragic week for the Red Arrows, after one of their planes crashed in north Wales killing engineer Cpl Jonathan Bayliss. Pilot Flt Lt David Stark - a new member of the team - survived and
FRANCESCA EVANS
francesca@lyme-online.co.uk is currently receiving medical treatment for non-life-threatening injuries. The date applied for by organisers of the annual display in Lyme Regis - Thursday, August 16 to coincide with Lyme Regis Community Week - clashes with one of the team’s engineering days and no other date is
available in their busy schedule. The Red Arrows have been gracing the skies of Lyme Regis for more than 40 years. They first appeared in the town in the 1970s for Regatta & Carnival Week before becoming the star feature of Lifeboat Week, appearing for free in support of the RNLI. The team annually attracted tens of thousands to Lyme Regis and ‘Red Arrows Day’ became one of
the most important days of the year for the town’s economy. In 2016, it was feared that Lyme’s lengthy relationship with the Arrows would come to an end, as the Ministry of Defence agreed to charge for all future displays. Organisers of Lifeboat Week felt they could not commit their charity funds to the event. However, an appeal launched by the now-closed TURN TO PAGE 2
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Published by Lyme Regis Media Limited Hyper-local website and fortnightly newspaper serving the communities of Lyme Regis, Uplyme & Charmouth. Unit 5 Uplyme Business Park, Uplyme Road, Lyme Regis, Dorset DT7 3LS www.lyme-online.co.uk edit@lyme-online.co.uk Facebook: facebook.com/LymeOnlineUK Twitter: twitter.com/LymeOnlineUK Instagram: instagram.com/lymeonline Editor: Francesca Evans francesca@lyme-online.co.uk 07810 221 420 Contributors: Philip Evans philip@lyme-online.co.uk Geoff Baker edit@lyme-online.co.uk Richard Austin edit@lyme-online.co.uk Production: Jackie Evans jackie@lyme-online.co.uk
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Plans for alternative display teams to replace Red Arrows CONTINUED FROM FRONT PAGE View From Lyme Regis newspaper quickly raised the necessary funds, thanks to donations from local businesses and residents, and the Red Arrows were able to appear in Lyme again in the summers of 2016 and 2017. The appeal was fronted by local newspaper editor Philip Evans now managing director of LymeOnline - who first brought the Arrows to the town when he was secretary of the Regatta & Carnival Committee in the 1970s. He also set up the Lyme Regis Red Arrows 100 Club in 2016 to help cover the costs, with 100 members each paying £100 towards the display. Lyme Regis Town Council agreed to underwrite the cost of the displays in the event they made a loss or were cancelled because of the weather. However, collection buckets raised record amounts over the past two years - with the funds being split between the cost of the display and local good causes that provided collectors and took part in Lyme Regis Community Week built around the Red Arrows’ appearances and organised by the town council. The town council had already started making plans for this year’s Community Week in the hope that the Red Arrows would be appear-
ing, and funds have already been raised for the display. It is now hoped that the money can be put towards a day of alternative entertainment. Discussions are taking place with the RAF events team with the possibility of securing other display teams. Mr Evans said: “Whilst we are disappointed that the Red Arrows will not be appearing in Lyme Regis this year, our thoughts at the moment go to the families of those involved in this week’s sad events. “Because of the long association between the Arrows and Lyme Regis, the RAF events team telephoned me to explain why they could not appear this year, and that it would have no impact on future applications.” Councillor Cheryl Reynolds, chairman of the town’s Tourism, Community & Publicity Committee, added: “Obviously we are disappointed that the Arrows will not be appearing in Lyme this year. We are hopeful that Community Week will still go ahead [August 13 to 19] with a number of events during one of the season’s peak weeks.” Councillor Reynolds confirmed that a message of sympathy had been sent from the town of Lyme Regis to RAF Scampton in Lincolnshire, where the Red Arrows are based, following this week’s tragic crash.
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THE Red Arrows have attracted tens of thousands to Lyme Regis every year Photo by Richard Austin
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Police advise Lyme residents to be more security conscious
POLICE have advised residents in Lyme Regis to be more “security conscious” and are promoting the Neighbourhood Watch scheme to prevent crimes such as theft and burglaries.
Speaking at last week’s LymeForward meeting, Police Community Support Officer Amanda King said that, while Lyme Regis was a very safe place to live, residents were “perhaps not as security conscious as they should be”. PCSO King, who has been based in Lyme Regis since the middle of November, said she had been trying to promote the Neighbourhood Watch scheme, as well as a new initiative called Hotel Watch. PCSO King said: “The idea is to get different people from different neighbourhoods in the area to be more security conscious and to spread news about incidents in the area so people can be more vigilant. “There’s quite a lot of support for it from the police and there’s a lot of good advice about security available.” PCSO King said recent crimes in the area had included door-to-door scams and burglaries, and she asked residents to be more vigilant. “Police resources are not what they used to be so we need as much help from the public as possible,” she added. “Please report anything you see that’s suspicious - it all helps police to build up a bigger picture. “Lyme Regis is a safe place to live but there are always one or two people causing problems.” There has been a spate of thefts from vehicles and outbuildings in the Lyme Regis area during the first three months of 2018. A number of incidents of tools and work equipment being stolen from parked cars and vans or from garages have been reported to the police since January, as well as reports of suspicious vehicles in the area. The first occurred overnight on Friday, January
FRANCESCA EVANS
francesca@lyme-online.co.uk 19 from a work van parked in King’s Way, Lyme Regis, when several power tools including Dewalt and Bosch drills and a Makita angle grinder were stolen (incident number 55180010161) . On the same night access was gained to another work van in the same road but the van was empty and nothing was taken (55180010239). Sometime between Friday, January 19 and Friday, January 26 a garage of a residence in Woodberry Down Way, Lyme Regis, was broken into. Two drills with hand chargers and other hands tools and boxes of screws were stolen. No forced entry occurred as the garage was open at the time of the incident (55180013555). Tools were stolen from a white-coloured Mercedes Sprinter Van parked in Axminster Road, Charmouth, between 1pm and 2pm on Monday, February 6. The van was unattended at the time of the theft while the owner of the vehicle was taking equipment to a nearby property. One steel stone grinder, one normal grinder and three nail guns were stolen (55180018910). A Vauxhall Vivaro van parked in Sidmouth Road, Lyme Regis, was targeted at approximately 1pm on Wednesday, February 14. Tools stolen included a Makita 12v Battery Drill, Makita 240v Jigsaw, Macel 24v Circular Saw and Guide Rail and a Worx 240v Grinder. The offender stole the items from the van and drove away in a dark red or burgundy-coloured car (55180023804). On Wednesday, February 21 between 10am and 4.30pm, a white-coloured Mercedes Sprinter van also parked on a driveway in Sidmouth Road, Lyme Regis, was targeted and tools were stolen (55180028287). Police have offered the following crime prevention tips following this spate of thefts: ● If practical remove valuable items from your van and store them securely overnight or when your van is not going to be used for some time.
Fit an alarm or immobiliser or wireless motion sensor. Alarms can come with battery-operated receivers that can alert you when you are on site or in bed, or with sirens that alert people in the vicinity. Remember to switch the alarm on when leaving the vehicle. ● Consider using an internal cage for your most valuable tools, such as power tools, in conjunction with an alarm. ● Park in a well lit area and keep access to doors as restricted as possible. ● Add signs or stickers to the van stating that the van is alarmed or emptied overnight. Signs can be downloaded and printed from the Dorset police website – www.dorset.police.uk ● Mark valuables with your postcode or Smartwater or Selecta DNA can also be used. ● Mark them with a gaudy coloured spray paint. This will make them easily identifiable and less attractive to thieves as they will be more difficult to sell on and they will be easily identifiable. Police have also appealed for information of a suspicious car pulling into the driveway of a house in West Hill Road, Lyme Regis, on Friday, February 9 at approximately 9pm. A silver-coloured Citreon Picasso with black stripes across the bonnet and roof entered the drive but when the resident of the property approached the car it immediately started reversing, and a second occupant of the vehicle shone a torch in the resident’s face. The driver of the vehicle had a northern accent, aged in his mid 30s and a full face. Witnesses to this incident or anyone who may have any information are urged to contact police on the nonemergency 101 number quoting I09:0450. Other recent crime incidents in the Lyme Regis area include criminal damage caused to a greycoloured Volkswagen Golf parked in Mill Lane, Lyme Regis, which was dented, possibly by a heavy instrument, between 10.45pm on Wednesday, March 14 and 10am on Thursday, March 15 (55180039349). A boat trailer was stolen sometime overnight ●
Architects work on third proposal for Regent rebuild ARCHITECTS are currently working on a third proposal for the fire-stricken Regent Cinema in Lyme Regis. Rumour circulated the town this week that the owners of the cinema, which burnt down two years ago, were intending to sell the site and not re-open it as a cinema. Several residents took to social media to express their hope that the cinema would be rebuilt and that the site would not be sold for other development, such as holiday flats. Owners WTW - Scott Cinemas have now confirmed they are not intending to sell the site, adding: “We are doing everything we can to get the cinema back into Lyme Regis, and as soon as our proposal is accepted we will start the rebuild.” In January, WTW - Scott Cinemas reported that work was continuing behind the scenes for the rebuild of the Regent. It said that the first proposal to rebuild the cinema did not meet the required design or financial criteria and a second proposal was at the “in principle” consultation stage with county planners and English Heritage. In a statement released on social media this week, it was revealed that the company now has architects working on a third proposal for the Regent. The grade II listed cinema in Broad Street closed after a major fire in March 2016, which saw the auditorium completely destroyed.
on Monday, March 12 from Lyme Regis Power Boat Club on Monmouth Beach (55180037317). Damage was caused to a vehicle between 10.45am and 12noon on Tuesday, March 6, when a black-coloured Mini Cooper parked at Stonebarrow National Trust Car Park in Stonebarrow Lane, Charmouth, had its rear window smashed. The bodywork of the car was also damaged. Nothing was stolen from the vehicle as there was nothing in the boot at the time of the incident (55180034808). Jewellery was stolen in a house burglary in Sherborne Lane, Lyme Regis, sometime between 11am on Tuesday, February 27 and 6pm on Saturday, March 3. Entry to the property was gained by forcing open a patio door (55180032790). Heating oil was stolen from a tank in the grounds of Marshwood Primary School, near Lyme Regis, between 12noon on Wednesday, February 28 and 7.30am on Monday, March 5 (55180033385). An iMac Pro desktop computer, Panasonic plasma TV and wallet containing numerous bank, credit and store cards was stolen from a house on Barfleur Rise, on the new Woodberry Copse development, overnight on Wednesday, January 17. If you have information regarding any of these crimes, contact Dorset Police on the non-emergency 101 number quoting the relevant occurrence number. Alternatively, you can contact Crimestoppers anonymously and free of charge on 0800 555 111. You can also report information online at https://crimestoppers-uk.org/
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THE auditorium of the Regent Cinema was completely destroyed by fire in March 2016 and has since been demolished
However, thanks to the instalation of new fire doors during a refurbishment that had just been completed, the Art Deco frontage of the building was left largely unscathed.
The Regent was then owned by Banstaplebased cinema chain Scott Cinemas, which merged with Cornwall-based WTW in April 2017 to form WTW - Scott Cinemas.
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NEWS ONLINE: Catch up with A round-up of the top stories from our website
Plastic free meeting packed with supporters A PACKED meeting of business owners, local organisations and residents keen to help Lyme Regis become a ‘plastic free’ town was held last week. Eco-group Turn Lyme Green, which is leading the campaign, was delighted with the turnout of about 50 people at its meeting. Chris Boothroyd of Turn Lyme Green said: “It’s fantastic to see so many people who are keen to support the idea of Lyme Regis becoming ‘plastic free’. Not only will this benefit residents and businesses, but will mark us out as a town that’s looking to the future.”
Feeding seagulls could cost you £100 RESIDENTS and visitors of Lyme Regis could be fined £100 for intentionally feeding seagulls when new rules are enforced later this year. West Dorset District Council has drawn-up new rules about public places, in particular feeding gulls, which will come into force on April 23. The new rules aim to reduce the problem of aggressive gulls, which are known to regularly snatch food from people, sometime causing injury.
They state that “no person at anytime shall provide or deposit food for consumption by gulls within the feeding of gulls restricted area”. The restricted area in Lyme Regis includes the town centre, seafront and beaches and Lister and Langmoor Gardens. Anyone found to be breaching the new rules could be fined £100 to be paid within 28 days, which will be reduced to £75 if paid within 14 days.
Bus services change for summer season Women’s health night well-attended Scouts build their own Danish chairs A SUMMER timetable is being introduced on the First X51 and X53 bus service, which run between Axminster, Lyme Regis and Bridport, with a Sunday and Bank Holiday service reinstated for the holiday season. The service frequency remains hourly, rather than half-hourly as seen in previous summers.
A WOMEN’S health evening at Lyme Regis Medical Centre has been hailed a success after more than 30 local women attended the event. Medical centre staff organised the session to encourage women to attend for their ‘well person check’ which covers height, weight, blood pressure, blood sugar and urine checks.
THE 1st Lym Valley Scouts have spent the past few weeks making Danish chairs after being inspired by their peers at a Danish Jamboree members visited last year. The work will go towards earning their Creative Challenge badge and the chairs will be put to good use in the summer.
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Youngsters enjoy another snow day LOCAL youngsters made the most of the second snowfall of March to hit Lyme Regis last weekend. Joshua Dean had to cancel his birthday party on Sunday due to the snow, but that didn’t stop him having fun with friends who could make it to Lyme, who got together for a mass snowball fight and Nerf Gun war in the Anning Road playing field. All schools in the area were closed on Monday, as well as some businesses and the town council offices. Photo courtesy of Sarah Dean
Friday, March 23 2018 5
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Boat builder takes on ‘Tri Hard’s’ challenge RORY Pulman, a student at the Boat Building Academy in Lyme Regis, is raising money for Macmillan Cancer Support and The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity by competing in the TriHard’s Challenge. On April 14, Rory and 19 other athletes will be riding, rowing and running over a hundred miles from Chelsea in London to Ventnor on the Isle of Wight. For more details visit the website visit the website www.trihardschallenge.co.uk
Litter Free Dorset hopes to clean up road verges LITTER Free Dorset launched a #LoveYourVerge campaign with three giant wildlife signs placed along the county’s roads to help reduce the amount of litter found on roadside verges. By telling people about the importance of wildlife that can be found on verges that can be harmed by litter problems, the organisation is hoping to reduce the amount of waste dumped by drivers.
Discounts on offer with Birthday surprise for new membership card lifeboatman Seb RESIDENTS and visitors of the Jurassic Coast can now receive discounts on days out, food and drink, products and services thanks to a new membership card scheme. The Jurassic Coast Card was set up by Amy Ralph, who was inspired by the people she’s met and businesses she’s discovered while writing her popular blog.
LYME Regis lifeboat crew member Seb Cope was served a birthday surprise by fellow volunteers to celebrate his 35th. Following a training session, his colleagues tied him to the railings of the harbour and soaked him in eggs, baked beans and flour, followed by a soaking of cold water - a lifeboat crew birthday tradition.
‘Infinite Monkey Cage’ star brings show to Marine THE star of BBC Radio 4’s ‘The Infinite Monkey Cage’, Robin Ince, will bring his first solo show for three years to the Lyme Regis Comedy Club at the Marine Theatre. In 2017 Robin completed a 70-date, record-breaking tour with physicist Brian Cox finishing at Wembley Arena. ‘The Infinite Monkey Cage’ remains one of the most popular programmes on BBC Radio 4, winning Robin a Sony Gold and Rose d'Or, as well as Time Out’s Outstanding Contribution to Comedy award, The Francis Crick Science Journalism Award and three Chortle awards. He will appear at the Marine Theatre on Thursday, April 19, doors open at 7pm. Tickets cost £15 and are available by calling 01297 442138 or online at www.marinetheatre.com.
THIS week in Lyme Regis has been all about my favourite thing - food. From social media chat about the upcoming Street Food Festival to a new restaurant opening, everyone’s had food on the brain. Not super helpful when you’re constantly professing to be “on a diet” (I’ll start on Monday... again!). Stylish seaside café bar SWIM opened its doors on Saturday and seems to have been packed ever since. I popped in for breakfast on Sunday morning with some friends and we were blown away by the transformation. Formerly By The Bay, the restaurant has been given a brand new look, with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking beach, relaxed booths and stunning woodwork. The full English was equally as impressive - “definitely worth walking through the snow for”, I wrote on Twitter. In fact, so worth it I trudged back down the seafront in my wellies that evening to attend the official opening; those attending who had seen my earlier tweet joked that I’d been there all day. I wish! The opening was packed with friends and supporters of the new SWIM team. With a DJ on the decks, the prosecco flowing and an endless supply of delicious finger food appearing from the kitchen, everyone was definitely in the party atmosphere! Mum and Dad were treated to more culinary delights later in the week when they were invited to sample the new seven-course taster menu at The Mariners Hotel, along with local hoteliers, bed and breakfast and guest
house owners, and they both gave rave reviews on their return. Lyme has an ever-increasing reputation as a ‘foodie’ destination with trendy hotspots such as the Town Mill Bakery having put us on the map. With the new-look Pilot Boat Inn scheduled to open in May, The French Lieutenant’s Bistro being revamped as Lyme Bay Café Bar and a ‘destination’ restaurant to be built at the former Three Cups Hotel (one day!), it looks as if Lyme will never suffer from lack of choice when it comes to eating out. You can read about both the Mariners and SWIM in our new eating out section The Food Pages on 18 & 19. In non-food related news, it was great to see some of the residents of the new Community Land Trust (CLT) development, Garmans Filed, this week. All 15 affordable homes went to those with local connections - most young families, many old school friends, and all beaming with pride when visited on Wednesday. Congratulations to them and to the CLT on seeing years of hard work come to fruition. But it’s not quite over yet - Garmans Field was 300 per cent oversubscribed with applicants, which just goes to show how many more young people are still waiting.
Francesca Evans, Editor
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LYME MATTERS with Philip Evans Essential reading for all those with Lyme at heart
The best way to spend a penny... LYME Regis got a mention in The Times’ coverage of Chancellor Philip Hammond’s idea to ditch the 1p and 2p coins. In his excellent Red Box daily blog, Matt Chorley wrote: “For me, there is no greater feeling in life than being in the arcade on Lyme Regis seafront turning your thumbs green while pumping old 2ps into a pusher machine nudging a knock-off Rubik's cube or a watch which is also a calculator closer to the drop.” That’s a view I’m sure will be shared by Amusement Arcade owner George Symonds, a staunch Tory who will not be happy with the Chancellor’s penny pinching. When my daughters were young and we were taking a Sunday evening stroll along the front, George would always call us into the arcade and give Zoe and Francesca a handful of copper to play the machines. He knew what he was doing, of course, because they invariably lost the lot and then pleaded with me for more coins. But George, being George, always made sure they won something. As someone who has shaken a few tins on the seafront over the years, the loss of the 1p and 2p coins could have severe affect on charity collections. Will we soon see the days when collectors on carnival night will have to carry mobile card machines for people to make their donations by the contactless system? Far from the days we uses to carry a blanket behind the floats and people threw their spare coins into it.
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How I spent my mayor’s allowance on first night L
YME Regis was the first town to confer the Freedom of the Borough on the old Dorset Regiment at a ceremony on the seafront in August 1945, soon after World War Two hostilities had ceased.
The march-past was taken by the First Citizen, Harry Blanchard, after war-time mayor Will Emmett had stood down after six years in the chair. Hitler intended to launch his invasion of England (named operation Sea Lion) in Lyme Bay, but - it is said - changed his
mind when he knew Will Emmett was in charge. Now you know why our current mayor, Michaela Ellis (nee Emmett), is of such an independent nature. The traditional symbol of esteem, giving the troops the right to march with fixed bayonets through the town remains to this day, although the county regiment was amalgamated with the Devonshires in 1958 and disbanded to be replaced by The Rifles in 2007. I can remember at least two occasions the regiment has exercised its right and with the town council planning a programme of
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EVENTS FOR APRIL THE BIG BREAKFAST Friday, April 6th - 8am to 12.30pm Full English £6 - Bacon Roll £3 Organised by Cancer Research UK Lyme Regis
KIDS EASTER DISCO
Saturday April 7th - 5.30 to 7pm - £2.50 Easter Egg Hunt £1 - Tickets 07968 219404 Supporting the Make a Wish Foundation and Prostate Cancer UK
MASKED SPRING BALL
Friday, April 21st - 7.30pm to midnight Tickets £25 (table of 10 £225) including cocktail on arrival, superb buffet supper, dancing to party band Ignition Tickets by phone 07796 951991 Organised by Cancer Research UK Lyme Regis
Other regular events include Ballet, Yoga, Pilates, Fitness Steps, 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
Those were the days... events to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the end of the First World War later this year, the mayor is hoping that her invitation to do so again will be accepted. During my year as mayor in 1985 I had to entertain the regiment on one occasion, although I cannot recall the reason. It could have been the 45th anniversary of the granting of the Freedom of the Borough. In those days the mayor’s allowance was £350 (now I think it’s around £5,000) and it was customary to have the after-match party at the Royal Lion having been elected. I went up to pay the bill the next morning and had to write out a cheque for - you’ve guessed it - £350! -
THREE AMIGOS: I’m pictured on the night I got made mayor with my predecessor, the late John Broderick, and local landlord Joe O’Donnell, who made John his very own chain of office out of a Guinness ashtray! Those who remember John will recall that he was rather partial to the black stuff leaving me to personally finance any council entertaining and hospitality during the rest of my year in office. And on the occasion the regiment visited Lyme that year I had to lay on beer and refreshments for all the squaddies who had honoured us with their presence. To get through the year I ran up an unau-
thorised overdraft of £1,000 with the Midland Bank. The manager, whom I knew well, never mentioned it during my year in office, but the very next day after relinquishing the mayoral chain I received a polite but firm letter from him asking what I was going to do about my overdraft. I was in my mid-30s at the time and it was
then I thought I ought to do something about building a career and it wasn’t long after that that I moved to London to work. I remember my year as the town’s youngest ever mayor, a dubious record I still hold, with great fondness, not least because my wife became the first mayoress to give birth (to our eldest daughter Zoe) during our term.
I’m sure we’ll see the Arrows over Lyme again SUMMER won’t seem the same in Lyme Regis without the fabulous Red Arrows screeching in over the bay, thrilling the thousands lining our seafront to witness what many say makes them “proud to be British”. Obviously there is great disappointment in the town that for the first time for over 40 years the Red Arrows have been forced to turn down our application as the date requested - Thursday, August 16 - has clashed with one of their regular engineering days. Unfortunately, there were no other spare dates in the Arrows’ hectic summer programme. The news came shortly before the tragic circumstances in Wales this week when a new recruit to the Red Arrows’ engineering team lost
his life when one of the jets crashed. Lyme has a special relationship with the Red Arrows and a message of condolence has been sent to RAF Scampton, where the Arrows are based, on behalf of the people of our town. Discussions are taking place with the RAF Events team to see if they can arrange any other displays to fill the void and it is hoped that Lyme Regis Community Week will continue with a full programme of events, and may be a few surprises, from August 13 to 19. No group of people will be more disappointed than the members of Lyme Regis Red Arrows 100 Club which I formed to help raise money to pay for the Arrows’ visits to Lyme Regis in the past couple of years.
With further support from a generous benefactor from Lyme’s business community, the money was already in place for this summer’s display. However, sadly it is not to be. But I have been assured that the decision not to come to Lyme this summer will have no impact on future applications and I am sure we will see the Arrows performing their fantastic aerial manoeuvres over Lyme Bay again in the future. This town has been hugely fortunate to have had them so often over the past 40 years. I can assure you we will do our best to bring them back again in the future and to do all we can to help the town council make the 2018 Community Week a great success.
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New sculptures on display in gardens ARTWORK ‘WELL RECEIVED’ BY RESIDENTS AND VISITORS FOUR striking new sculptures have been added to Langmoor Gardens in Lyme Regis under the guidance of The Arts Development Company. Works by Dorset artists Brendon Murless, Isla Chaney and recent graduate Carrie Mason are now displayed in the public gardens. They were chosen by emerging curator Nikki Hawkins, in a role created by The Arts Development Company. The artists and curator were paid for their work and the whole project cost £5,000, with funding coming from LymeForward through Lyme Regis Town Council. The new works have attracted warm praise from residents and visitors. Lyme Regis town councillor Cheryl Reynolds, chairman of the Tourism, Community & Publicity Committee, said: “Even on dull, wet days, the sculptures light up the gardens.” Sarah James, chief executive of The Arts Development Company added: “Art helps create better public places for everyone. I hope these sculptures will encourage visitors to linger longer, spending more time in the town and perhaps bringing more income for the local economy.”
Brendon Murless’ piece is called ‘The Air We Breathe’. Made of steel and patinated copper, it shows a tree with clear structural similarities between human lungs and tree branches. Brendon said: “It has an environmental message highlighting the importance of trees for air and life. I am really pleased it was selected because I’m interested in exploring ways to get my work into public art settings.” Brendon is based at Brown’s Farm workshops in Nettlecombe, near Bridport. Curator Nikki Hawkins found the experience hugely rewarding. “It’s been amazing,” she commented, “from the initial selection, working with the local advocates, pulling all the paperwork together and then the actual physical installation. “It’s grown my network to include artists and others whom I hope to work with again on future projects. I’m interested in taking art into new spaces, environments and experiences.” The whole project was managed by Cleo Evans at The Arts Development Company, in liaison with LymeForward, the town council and local sponsors Hix Oyster & Fish House and Lyme Bay Holidays, building on the existing sculpture trail in the gardens, ini-
FROM left, curator Nikki Hawkins, project manager Cleo Evans from The Arts Development Company, sculptor Brendan Murless, The Arts Development Company chief executive Sarah James, Cllr Cheryl Reynolds, John Calder, Hix Oyster & Fish House chef Ben Fuzzard, restaurant manager Robert Moretto and Lyme Regis deputy clerk Mark Green, standing by Brendan’s sculpture ‘The Air We Breathe’ in Langmoor Gardens
tially set up by local artist John Calder as part of ArtsFest. Cleo said: “I hope we can now work with locals to raise further funding to develop the sculpture trail. “Hix are planning a fundraising auction and dinner in November and it would be good to get auction lots and sponsorship for that. “It would be great to extend the trail and organise night-time events.”
The BIG Breakfast NEW VENUE
Sponsor Ania’s skydive online LYME Regis resident Ania Driver is planning to celebrate her 70th birthday by jumping out of a helicopter with the Army’s Red Devils free fall parachute team in memory of her late husband Terry, a former Royal Marine, and to raise money for the Royal British Legion. As reported in the March 9 edition of LymeOnline, Ania will take the plunge on Tuesday, June 26 at Old Sarum in Salisbury, where the Red Devils are based. You can now sponsor Ania online by visiting www.justgiving.com/fundraising/aniaspoppyappealskyjump
Masked Spring Ball
Saturday, April 21st Woodmead Halls 7.30pm-12.30 Tickets £25 each or £225 for a table of 10
◆ Cocktail on arrival ◆ Live Music for dancing from top party band Ignition ◆ Sumptuous Buffet Supper ◆ Special prize for best mask
8 Friday, March 23 2018
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Locals move into long-awaited new affordable housing BUT MANY STILL WAITING AS HOUSES WERE 300 PER CENT OVER-SUBSCRIBED NEW residents of Lyme Regis Community Land Trust’s first development are celebrating after moving into their new homes. All 15 affordable units of the Garmans Field development, off Timber Hill, have been allocated to individuals and young families with a connection to Lyme Regis. The completion of the one, two and three-bed houses - built by CG Fry & Son and managed by Yarlington Housing Group - is the culmination of years of work by the Community Land Trust (CLT), which was set up in 2012 after former Mayor of Lyme Regis, the late Barbara Austin MBE, called for “affordable rented houses for local people in perpetuity”. The CLT was subsequently set up with board members Dennis Yell, Keith Jenkin, Brian Rattenbury and Rob McLaughlin, and Lorna Jenkin as treasurer and secretary. They started searching for an appropriate site for their first development and eventually, with the help of Wessex CLT Project and Homes England - then known as the Homes and Communities Agency - they were able to secure land off Timber Hill and appoint architects and partner housing association Yarlington to push the project forward. Work started on site in 2016, funded by Yarlington with grant support from Homes England and West Dorset District Council. A spokesperson for the CLT said: “This project was enabled because it was a CLT project. The land was affordable as it was outside the development boundary and, of course, the landowner was sympathetic to the CLT’s aims and willing to sell at a fraction of usual building land costs. “It is in appreciation of his family’s generosity that the site has been named Garmans Field.”
The allocations process was undertaken by Yarlington Housing Group, which will now also manage the site. All 15 units were offered at affordable rents, i.e. no more than 80 per cent of the average local rental, and not more than the Local Housing Allowance. Vacancies were advertised on the Dorset Home Choice website and there was huge demand for the properties. RESIDENTS of the new Garmans Field development off Timber Hill in Lyme Regis. Below, the new affordable homes For 15 homes, about 125 initial applications were received, but when prices are high and well paid employment heart of the decision making process of development, helping decide for example where homes multiple applications and non-qualifying ones scarce. “The CLT is actively seeking suitable sites for will be built and how the houses will be let and were discounted, the vacancies were still about 300 per cent oversubscribed, which CLT mem- further projects, but these are difficult to find in managed. Garmans Field is Yarlington’s third developbers have said demonstrates the need for more Lyme Regis. It believes that any opportunity should be investigated, and if anyone has any ment in partnership with a CLT. affordable developments in the town. For more information on Lyme Regis CLT, visit The allocations plan was devised by the CLT, ideas, please contact any of the CLT board memthe website www.lrclt.btck.co.uk with help from Wessex CLT Project and others, bers, or message us through the website.” Yarlington’s executive director of growth and to ensure that the homes were allocated to peodevelopment, Stephen Lodge, said: “Yarlington ple with a significant local connection, i.e. by resis delighted to announce the completion of Garidence, work or having close family already here. man’s Field. With the price of rent continuously Many of them were previously living in private rising, especially in sought after areas like Lyme rented accommodation, which was too expen- Regis, this 100 per cent affordable development will provide locals the opportunity to stay in sive or did not offer enough space. A CLT spokesperson commented: “The aim is their home town. “We were also pleased to collaborate with the to protect community cohesion and the social viability of this small seaside town, where property Lyme Regis CLT, West Dorset District Council and appoint local contractors CG Fry & Sons to produce high quality properties.” Councillor Tim Yarker, housing portfolio holder for West Dorset District Council, added: “Timber Hill will make a difference to the lives of local people and help address significant local housing need. It is one of the largest CLTs to be completed so far in West Dorset and we are keen for more communities to take advantage of £2million council funding available for these schemes. “This is a great example of local people getting together to address a problem and the Lyme Regis CLT should be congratulated for their initiative and hard work alongside Yarlington Housing Group and the Wessex CLT Project.” CLTs are set up by local communities who develop and manage housing as well as other assets to ensure that they remain affordable and for local people. CLTs also make sure that community is at the
Great food isn’t just a meal, it’s an event
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NEW chef Jack Lord brings a wealth of experience and love of food to Sins Grill and Bar Bridport. “I accidently became a chef, I had worked front of house from a young age in restaurants, making sure every customer had a great experience,” said Jack. “The restaurant went through some staff changes and it was all hands on deck in the kitchen. That is when I discovered my talent for creating mouth-watering, beautiful dishes and I knew I had found my career.” Jack then started his professional chef training, with his attention to detail and taste bud-popping creations it wasn’t long until his reputation
started to succeed him. “I think probably the best experiences have been achieving rosettes for two restaurants and having the pleasure of working with the original team that trained Gordon Ramsey, it definitely widened my skill set. “Also, working in Michelin star restaurants across England has pushed me, pushed the standards and the creativity of each plate that is served.” Jack will be brining lots of new, exciting dishes to Bridport, some that have never been seen in the town before! Book your table today at Sins Grill and Bar, Bridport, to have your taste buds blown away by the new, probably the best, chef in town!
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Lyme to lose one of its favourite characters
Friday, March 23 2018 9
LYME Regis is losing one of its great characters and most popular businessmen. After two decades of successfully running The Old Watch House in Cobb Square, fishmonger Simon ‘Si The Fish’ Bennett, his wife Jo, their children Sam and Rosie, and two dogs and a cat are upping sticks to start a new life on Prince Edward Island in Canada. As they leave town for the last time, he pens an affectionate and emotional farewell.
I
MOVED to Lyme Regis in 2003. I’d only been here once before, when I was a fishmonger working in Dorchester with my father back in the 1990s and I had to collect live crabs in Lyme from Nigel Hill.
I remember that occasion, a bleak November morning, looking back from the cobbles on the Cobb towards the town and thinking, “Wow, this must be a nice place to live.” It was a chance meeting that brought me to settle here. Sarah Homyer, the youngest daughter of Victor, Lyme’s famed boatman and fishmonger, lived in Dorchester and was a regular customer at the fish van that Dad and I ran in the High Street there. One day, whilst buying some sole, Sarah, who owns The Old Watch House on Cobb Square, asked us if we’d like to take over the shop. I was fresh back from travelling across Australia, I didn’t know anything much about Lyme, but I needed a new direction, so I thought I’d give it a go. We started at the Old Watch House on a warm summer’s day, it was glorious; the sun was dancing on the water, all around was the excited chatter of families heading for the beach and I had a mellow feeling that my life was going to be good. Little did I know just how good it was to become, but it only took me four days to find out. For later in my first week I popped into the café just along from my shop and ordered a sandwich. They were busy so the café owner said her niece, Jo, would deliver the sandwich to the shop for me. I forget what was in the sandwich, I forget everything else about that lunchtime because I was just enchanted when Jo came in and gave me a dazzling smile. It was a smile that I just had to see again, so I asked if she’d like to take a walk with me along the Cobb after work. Five months later I proposed to Jo on a mountain the middle of India. Six months later we were married on an incredible September day in St Michael’s Parish Church and we promenaded with our guests up to The Alex for a sumptuous celebration. Two months after that our first child, our son Sam, was born. Five years later, along came our daughter Rosie. So what are my thoughts on this lovely town? Firstly, what an amazing place it is for the kids to grow up in. They’ve got all the woods inland, in which to ride bikes through
and build dens, and some great play parks. They’ve also a great musical and social scene developed and promoted at The Hub through the efforts of Marcus Dixon and his team. Then there’s the beaches, wide, soft and safe, where every summer they make exciting but transient holiday friends. Young ones around here couldn’t be any luckier, although most of them won’t know that until they leave Lyme Regis. We’ve only had 15 years here but we have noticed the changes in town; the rocketing house prices for one, and the sad lack of space for building much-needed more homes. I’ve also noted a change in the habits of the voracious Dorset traffic wardens; generally, they now only come to town on sunny days and Sundays. Feel free to park illegally if you’re visiting local shops at any other time. Of course, the ‘Travelling Caravan Club’ turn up with their white transit vans and suitably-decorated Clubmans to take over Holmbush Car Park for a week in August, but they don’t get one ticket between them. On the other hand, the Lyme council wardens do a remarkable job and they have our greatest respect for their watchful and conscientious policing of our town. David Hasslebeard, you know the one, from LymeBayWatch, has kept the dog walkers in line ever since Derek ‘The Dog’ Hallett hung up his whistle, back along. They are great public servants, that team. Those dastardly county wardens certainly felt our angst when I instigated the ‘Great Traffic Warden Ban’ of 2008. Following a quick bit of Photoshop-ing, a few willing traders placing the offending placards in their windows proclaiming “This is a Traffic Warden Free Zone”. But it did not take long until I received a visit from a copper and was told to “desist with my protest’’. It was only a lark and the boy in blue appreciated that, but back then you could get away with a bit of fun like that, and that’s where I feel Lyme and probably society has changed since, just a bit at a time, and now the rules and their enforcement are more intense. I remember when the cargo ship MSC Napoli ran aground off Beer in 2007. From a fishmonger’s point of view, I felt very relieved that there wasn’t a drop of pollution on our shoreline. But I also remember that all the local ladies were ‘defying the signs of ageing’ with their three-years-worth of
locally-sourced, free skin cream which somehow flooded the market. Then the police got involved and stopped the “salvaging”, although I recall that certain locals did actually return with a foraged Harley Davison or two, or was it three? Then there was the time when Joseph May parked his fully-laden carpet-cleaning van, with all his carpetcleaning machines in the back, on the slipway at the harbour during a storm with the hand brake off. We didn’t k n o w whether to laugh or cry. But, being Lyme, we all had a whip round for Joe anyway. I remember the Lyme Lympics, attended by the ‘Queen’ herself, although she was not quite as good a lookalike as our latest Prince Harry at The Volly. Staged on the sand, the Lympics caused much mirth, although you had to feel a little sorry for all the six to eight year olds with their searing red rope burns from the tug o’ war. Some of them got dragged under the sand with the weight and speed of the rope. It was proper Spanish health and safety but isn’t that what it’s all about? I miss the Lympics, will we ever see another mobility scooter race, with the competitors’ teeth almost falling out with joy as they trundled up the parade? Bring back conger coddling, that’s what I say. The newbies won’t know about that, Lyme’s unique and hilarious version of bar billiards staged to raise funds for Lifeboat Week. We used to tie a 12-foot conger eel to the lamp post on Cobb Square, two teams, the firemen and the fishermen, would stand on buckets as the cuddly conger would be swung at them for a spot of human skittles. Even though the conger eel was very
“
much dead and frozen, one person complained to the authorities at the RNLI and Lifeboat Week’s greatest event became conger coffining, laid to rest along with all the other whizzy bits of rebel danger fun that our town is known for. Other memories: I fondly recall when Virgil Turner, our fire chief who was briefly registered with the council as official pest controller until he was unfairly harangued as ‘The Seagull Shooter’, once reported an ominous silver disc which had floated up on the beach. On that busy summer day when the town was in full flow, he personally vacated about 8,000 tourists and closed all the shops and pubs within a mile radius. Then the bomb squad turned up and the Mercedes hub cab was removed. I remember too how Virgil also leapt to the rescue and caught an escaped wallaby back in 2012. After jumping over six garden fences and flattening shrubberies, he made the nationals. And so he should, Virgil is part of our local folk-lore for his derring-do. Action speaks louder than words and Virgil is Action Man, certainly he has the chiselled looks of a hero. I’ll miss him. We - Jo, Sam, Rosie and me - will miss him and many, many more friends, our lovely customers and great local characters besides. But now opportunity knocks and we have high hopes of a great new life in Canada, where homes are twice as big and a quarter of the price they are here, where the climate is actually seasonal, where the kids can grow up in a land of gloriously-wide possibilities and where Jo and I will continue to work in the fish business, forever striving to prosper. Our big farewell will be at the Royal
It’s a wondrous place, is Lyme, a special town that should be forever treasured”
Standard on March 31. Do pop in, mine’s a cider, it will be lovely to reminisce with the good friends whom we feel blessed to have made. We’ll have a laugh and will doubtless shed a few nostalgic tears as we make our last goodbye. It’s been a pleasure to serve you as your fishmonger. The new chap taking over is called Dan Colquhoun and, at 27, Fishman Dan is starting at the same age as I did in town. He’s a good amiable monger and is well-known amongst us fisherfolk. Good luck to you Dan and I hope you find some of the rebel spirit this town needs. It’s a wondrous place, is Lyme, a special town that should be forever treasured. It has been very kind and welcoming to us and it’s been a pleasure to serve you as your fishmonger. We will miss each and every one of you and we’ll always be proud to say Lyme was our home, please look after it for us. But now Nova Scotia beckons – and if you’re ever passing, don’t. With love, Simon, Joanne, Samuel, Rosie, Eavis, Panda and Gurnard Bennett
10 Friday, March 23 2018
the GEOFF BAKER column
Entertaining, mischievous and thought-provoking
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The Marine is a place for smiling, joy and good times A
CCORDING to my Mum, when Dr Fernandez delivered me in Lyme’s old cottage hospital on Pound Road the very first thing that I did in this world was to wee in a great arc all over the midwife.
Although some may say that this response set the trend for what has been my attitude to help ever since, I have no memory of it. In fact my earliest memory is of a night when I was five and was standing on the stage at the Marine Theatre. I can still see it vividly in my mind now; I was in the infants class at St Gilda’s, the convent that the nuns used to run in Stile Lane, and we children were putting on what I think was a Christmas show. As a right Just William, or more probably a right Little ‘Erbert, I assumed that my class were the stars of the show as we boys stood there dressed up as miniature guardsmen as the girls sang ‘Oh soldier, soldier won’t you marry me?’ I can still remember feeling that this was all rather racy, getting asked to marry Jane Tomlin and Juliet Walker, girls who made me blush long before I understood why, as I very proudly marched on the spot in my busby, tiny red jacket and my very first pair of long trousers, black with a dashing red stripe down the outside, which Mum had made. Even now, I can clearly recall the scene that made child eyes sparkle and widen back then; the strange smell of the make-up that the mums rubbed into our beaming faces backstage, the tensing of my tummy as we were shooed out to stare nervously at a darkened hall crammed with parents in their suits and best frocks. I still remember how hot the footlights were against my shins at the front of the stage, and it has been imbedded deep into my psyche ever since that this being onstage was clearly the very best feeling in the world. For that reason alone, I will always love the Marine Theatre; it gave me the euphoria of being part of putting on a show, a thrill of sheer ecstasy which, a long while later, was to become a big part of my life during the many years when I worked in the music business. There were other reasons, growing up, for me to love the Marine; going to the discos on Saturday nights in the 1970s when me and my teenage mates thought we were hippies and in our loon pants and grandad vests we would pretend to be Mick Jag-
ger, prancing all hand on hip as Doug Emmett – billing himself as ‘Dr Psycho’ - played Honky Tonk Women and the skinheads who were Nigel Hill, Richard Austin and Geoff Cleal scowled at us and scared us rigid, making us hope that manager Bob Alexander would come to the rescue if we dared go to the toilets alone. Then there was Linda, I think that was her name. She was a year above me at Woodroffe and when I first went there in 1967 she was one of the three most beautiful girls that I had then ever seen; she, Nicky Hall and Rosalind Love would hang out at break by the gate to the swimming pool, Linda looking all leggy with her white socks pulled up over her knees and her long blonde hair. She was so gorgeous that for years at school I would turn around and walk the other way if I saw her coming down the corridor, the embarrassment of making eye contact with such a goddess would have mortified me. When I was 16 I was down at the Marine on a Saturday night as usual and she was there. I couldn’t believe it, I think she lived over Morcombelake way, how on earth had she travelled from so far to Lyme? Again, I can see the whole night clearly in my head even now. She was dancing on the left side of the hall, traditionally the skinheads’ side and so avoided by my lot. She caught my eye and smiled. Then she walked towards me and, as I entered a near-trance state of disbelief, asked me if I wanted to dance. I had never even heard her speak before, she had the loveliest of soft Dorset accents, a burr that was cream-like in its gentleness. We danced and then she suggested that we went outside. We sat on the bench overlooking Gun Cliff and she kissed me, actual snogging. I had never been so happy. There have been many other nights that have married my soul to the Marine; the time a few years back when, having publicly smoked the most gigantic ‘roll-up’ that I have ever seen, Geno Washington tore the place down at one of the
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BRIAN and Tyler Street practise for the upcoming fundraising event, Guitars On The Boards, to be held at the Marine Theatre on April 14
best concerts of my entire life, the night my old pal from our Macca days, the ace guitarist Robbie McIntosh, played a fundraiser for us on the eve of our first Guitars On The Beach, and, just a month ago, when the brilliant Jess Upton made my legs defy medical science as Jill and I danced all night to her superb show with her band The Guilty Pleasures. The Marine means a lot to me, it has been the star feature of many of my happiest nights; in my head it represents smiling and joy and good times. But the good times ceased to be for me several years ago when the theatre took what I felt to be was a more high-brow turn and the music, my sort of music, seemed to stop and the discos went. As more earnest productions were staged and the audiences subsequently dwindled, I became one of its loudest critics, forever mouthing off on Facebook and in the press about the soaring cost of funding it, as I voiced my cynical distain which was, on reflection, probably just my anguished cry of missing nights which represented my youth. At one point I became so arch in my criticism that I even joined the ranks of those in the town who not only wanted the Marine’s council funding to end, but that the theatre should be closed and the building sold off for at least £3million, which one leading local councillor has confidently told me the town could get
The Marine means a lot to me, it has been the star feature of many of my happiest nights”
for it. But just as the skies of a doomladen future darkened over the Marine late last year, along came Gabby - Gabby Rabbitts, formerly the boss of Bridport’s Electric Palace and the best thing to have come to Lyme since a warm summer breeze. Since Gabby has taken over as director of the Marine, the lights at the theatre seem to have shone more brightly, certainly its future looks more candescent, and now I want to be back down there again; smiling and happy. Gabby is turning the flagship of the town’s nightlife around. Concerts she’s been promoting have sold out fast, the laid-back music sessions of the ‘lazy Sunday afternoons’ in the bar will soon have a big following, Mad Jeff’s reggae nights are returning by the overwhelming popular demand of Lyme’s young people, and her innovation of Lyme’s first-ever Children’s Week (see page 15) is a superb idea; more than 20 imaginative events designed to inspire children’s creativity over Easter, top stuff. Among the Children’s Week events will be the In The Band Jam Session on April 4, run by my pal Pete Wild, who is also one of the team organising this year’s Guitars On The Beach. In the session he will be showing how easy it is to make a great sound by building up the layers of music with young musicians of varying experience. “Bands can sound great even when one or two members have never played before, so don’t let inexperience put you off joining in”, says Pete. “That’s what the spirit of rock and roll is all about.” I know a fair bit of what the spirit of rock and roll is all about, some might say that I’ve known far too
much about it in my time, and I know that the sheer, intoxicating, exhilarating fun of it will be soaring at another great music night at the Marine, coming up on April 14. This Saturday dance night will be Guitars On The Boards, when four of the best bands from around these parts will go onstage at the Marine for a benefit night that will enable us to raise the funds we need to stage this year’s Guitars On The Beach. Besides Brian Street’s Guitars On The Beach house band belting out a set of dance-inciting hits, the show will feature the brilliant talents of Slinky Machine, The IOU’s and, making their world debut appearance, Lyme’s outstanding new young band, Dream Phaser. There will also be a disco and surprise guests who have agreed to get up for a few numbers with the house band. I know the identity of a couple of these and, believe me, they are fabulous and they will have us rocking and bopping like there’s no tomorrow. It will be a wonderful night, a night for the town’s best musicians and, importantly, a platform for our new young talent to shine; in essence another one of those “I was there” fun events which are to be remembered with a glow always. Gabby Rabbitts is bringing on back the good times, the legend of the Marine continues and we should all be guardsmen in protecting it. And Linda, if you’re reading this, please do grab a ticket for the 14 before they all sell out. ● Guitars On The Boards, the Guitars On The Beach fund-raiser & fun-raiser, Marine Theatre Saturday April 14th. Doors open 6.30 pm, show ends way past 11. Tickets £10 advance from the TIC 01297 442138 or from www.marinetheatre.com
Friday, March 23 2018 11
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LymeForward co-ordinator stands down from the role
MEMBERS of Lyme Business Network, including founder Louise Monblat (second from left) and LymeOnline managing director Philip Evans (far right) who was guest speaker at the latest meeting
Lyme Business Network marks second anniversary MEMBERS of Lyme Business Network have celebrated the organisation’s second anniversary. The group was set up two years ago by Lyme Regis businesswoman Louise Monblat, who wanted to create an environment where local business people could network and promote their companies. The group meets for breakfast on the second and fourth Tuesday of the month at Lyme Regis
Golf Club, where members and visitors are given the opportunity to talk about their ventures. Philip Evans, managing director of LymeOnline, and editor Francesca Evans, were guest speakers at the latest meeting, where members were also treated to a special birthday cake. For more information email Louise on louise@lymebusinessnetwork.co.uk or call 07749 876195
Tales From Lyme’s Past
A glimpse of our history by Peter Lacey
LYME’S SMELLY PAST THIS paper (March 9) informed us that the Marine Parade toilets are at last going to be subject to major refurbishment. Elizabethan Lyme did not have a newspaper. If it had, it would have been reporting on measures to curb the unhygienic habits of its residents. It was commonplace to dump excrement and urine in the streets, the river and on the sea shore. There were no public toilets and dwellings with a privy were rare. If one existed it consisted of a crude shaft running down to a foulsmelling cesspit. One outside privy was built under a neighbour’s window and the nauseous smell drove the afflicted people from their home! In reality, most people used what was known in Tudor parlance as a ‘piss pot’, its contents being deposited in the street over time forming a dung-heap. Regulations to control such squalid actions were for the most part ignored. The Court Books record numerous individuals brought before the court and fined. Sauder Durstand simply “cast his filth into the Mill Stream”. Richard Davies was slightly more community-minded; he went to Cobb Gate and “cast his filth on the sea shore about the full sea mark”. The River Lim was an open sewer, cast into it was human waste, refuse, dead animals and even a barrel of offal. This caused the shingle bank where it entered the sea to become blocked. It had to be frequently dug out due to
“filth backing up and causing a very offensive smell”. Even the cemetery was not sacrosanct; students from the grammar school were defecating within its precinct while other children did likewise “before the market stalls”. Little wonder a town scavenger was appointed to remove all dung heaps, an unpleasant task that had to be completed before nightfall on Saturday of each week. Adding to the pollution was the ordure from livestock and domestic animals; a particular problem was the number of pugs roaming freely about the town. It is little wonder that rats and flies thrived in the befouled streets, as did disease. Life expectancy ranged between 28-41 years, infant mortality was high with 14 per cent of babies dying before their first birthday. Lyme’s recent problems with its public toilets pale into insignificance compared with the 16th century. Peter Lacey’s book ‘Elizabethan Lyme Regis with a Biography of Sir George Somers’ is now on sale for £12 - call 01297 443630
COMMUNITY interest company LymeForward has said goodbye to its co-ordinator Adrian Ragbourne. Mr Ragbourne (pictured), who was responsible for overseeing the organisation’s various projects, finished work this month and will not be immediately replaced. A report on his departure was presented at last week’s LymeForward meeting, and said: “Adrian joined LymeForward, then operating as part of Lyme Regis Development Trust, in June 2015. He made an immediate and energetic impact, with the minutes of the partnership meeting held only 10 days later recording his proposal that a Coastal Community Team (CCT) be formed to begin the process of accessing the government’s Coastal Communities funding opportunities, from which significant money and constructive activity has already flowed. “As well as working hard on economic regeneration and fundraising possibilities with the CCT, in his time with LymeForward Adrian has done a huge amount to take on the challenges of the health and care agenda, notably in offering quiet background practical support and time to individuals and families in particular need. “As assiduous networker, he has done much to raise the profile and good reputation of LymeForward - and thus of Lyme Regis, Charmouth and Uplyme - with many local and national bodies and authorities, in turn meaning that doors are open and ears are prepared to listen when LymeForward and other local bodies are trying to advance the interests of this community. “All members of LymeForward will wish to acknowledge Adrian’s contributions, to thank him for them and to wish him well in whatever new opportunities he takes up.” It was also reported that Mr Ragbourne would not be immediately replaced due to the uncertainty of “two big unknowns” - the size, shape and timing of the next round of Coastal Communities funding, which has previously helped to support LymeForward projects, and the local government reorganisation in Dorset, as West Dorset District Council currently helps fund Ly-
meForward but will be replaced by a unitary authority in the near future. The report stated: “LymeForward directors have decided not to appoint a replacement for Adrian immediately, giving time for clarity to develop on immediate LymeForward priorities and thus the key attributes needed for a new postholder.” In the meantime, LymeForward’s Heather Prior has increased her hours until July, and the organisation’s directors have met with trustees of Lyme Regis Development Trust to ensure both organisations are working together in the most efficient way. LymeForward was set up in 2004 under Lyme Regis Development Trust as one of the Local Area Partnerships introduced by West Dorset District Council. In 2016, it became independent from the trust and now operates as a community interest company with funding from the town and district councils. It aims to bring local people, organisations and service providers together to improve local services, and as well as seeking funding from the Coastal Community Fund, its current projects include the monthly Community Lunches and Meet & Remember sessions, and operation of the local food bank.
At Fossil Fitness we know that you understand the importance of exercise when it comes to keeping yourself in good shape mentally and physically, we also know that it can be very hard to start a new regime. Some gyms can be intimidating and there are those who feel that personal training can be costly and only suited to younger people. Working out with Fossil Fitness can mean anything from a power walk to more intense cardio with or without weights. What’s important is that we work with you to achieve your goals, whether they be weight loss, greater flexibility, a healthier heart or just the ability to make the most out of your hobbies and time with your friends and family. To learn more and book a free consultation, which will include a 30 minute taster session, contact Alli on 07774 696269 or at allison.mackrell@icloud.com
12 Friday, March 23 2018
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to unitary Do you know your dredging? Change authorities ‘won’t DISTRICT COUNCIL’S ANNUAL HARBOUR MAINTENANCE WORK AFTER WEATHER DELAYS HAVING been delayed due to the recent adverse weather condition, the annual dredging of Lyme Regis harbour got underway this week. West Dorset District Council (WDDC) is carrying out work to dredge the harbours and replenish the beaches in both Lyme Regis and West Bay. The work in Lyme started on Tuesday and is expected to last for two weeks. This will be carried out in day and night shifts but night shifts will be pump only, so they are not expected to disturb local residents. Sections of the sandy beach in Lyme Regis will be closed for the duration of works at Lyme Regis but all car parks will remain open. Banksmen will be on site for both sets of work to ensure public safety. The district council has now released a video and fun dinosaur-theme fact sheets about dredging to educate the public about the works, especially interested youngsters, and is asking residents and visitors to join in on social media using #DoYouKnowDeredging. Dredging maintains the entrance to the harbours and bulks up parts of the beach for flood defences. Both Lyme Regis and West Bay boast world-famous harbours. These are fundamental to the prosperity of the towns and WDDC maintains the harbours for boat owners to have a safe and secure place to store and use their boats. The towns’ beaches are highlights of the UNESCO World Heritage Jurassic Coast. Enjoyed by both tourists and residents, the district also aims to keep these beaches in exceptional condition. Councillor Tony Alford, leader of West Dorset District Council, said: “We are delighted to be working in partnership with the town council, as we know how much it means for our local economy to keep the beach in peak condition. A range of equipment including amphibious excavators, dump trucks, bulldozers and dredging pumps is used in the dredging works.
DREDGING gets underway on the main sandy beach in Lyme Regis “This year, we will be running an educational campaign to highlight the importance of dredging.” The dredging works are a part of a large scheme to improve coastal erosion and flood protection in Lyme Regis. This award-nominated scheme is now nearing completion, with the final phase underway on the Cobb. A spokesperson for the district council commented: “We know how much it means for our local economy to keep the beautiful beaches in peak condition. Therefore, only sections of sandy beach will be shut during duration of works. “If you visit West Bay or Lyme Regis in this time, why not let us know via the hashtag #DoYouKnowDredging?”
Dredging Facts WEST Dorset District Council shifts about 10,000 tonnes of material every year – that’s the equivalent of 667 Dippy the dinosaurs, 100 megaladons, the Eiffel Tower or five times the London Eye! They use 200 metres of pipe to transport material – that’s the length of seven diplodocus. The dump truck used is 30 tonnes – the weight of two diplodocus. To find out more about dredging, watch the video http://bit.ly/2DH0YsJ and use #DoYouKnowDredging on social media.
be noticeable’
LYME Regis district and county councillor Daryl Turner has said he does not think residents will notice many changes as local government reorganisation takes place over the coming months. Speaking at last week’s LymeForward meeting, Councillor Turner - who represents Lyme Regis and Charmouth on the district council and the Marshwood Vale on the county council - gave an update on plans to create two unitary authorities in Dorset in May 2019. Following the recent go ahead by Local Government Minister Sajid Javid, all district and borough councils in Dorset, and the county council, are set to be replaced by two unitary authorities - one covering Christchurch and Bournemouth and the other covering the rest of the county, including Lyme Regis. The new unitary authority for this area will be called Dorset Council and will have 82 councillors - a reduction from 206 existing county councillors - with two in each division. Elections will be held to select councillors. Existing division boundaries are not expected to change, but they will be called wards. The new council will serve for two five-year terms before returning to the current election cycle, and town councils are expected to follow suit. Council offices are expected to remain in Dorchester. Councillor Turner said it had not yet been decided what services, assets and associated funding would be devolved to town and parish councils, and he expected “very little” to be devolved before May 2019 as there was not enough time to do all the necessary work. “In May 2019 we will not have a unitary authority looking the same as it will in 10 years’ time. It will develop over time,” he said. When asked what the average resident would notice during the switch-over to unitary authorities, Councillor Turner said he didn’t think they would notice very much. However, he said there would likely be reduction in the standard of road surfaces as there was not enough money to make all necessary repairs, and it may affect adult and children’s services which had “very large gaps” in its funding.
NEWS FROM CITIZENS ADVICE THE local offices of Citizens Advice are devoting more time than in the past assisting people with mental health problems. In the UK as a whole Citizens Advice last year helped over 100,000 people who had a mental health issue and that they were more likely to face multiple, complex problems compared to the average client. Many of these require advice on benefits. Significant progress has been made in recent years tackling the stigma surrounding mental health and these efforts have been boosted since Heads Together, an initiative spearheaded by the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and Prince Harry, was launched in 2016 to campaign on these issues. This royal support has built on the work being done to try and ensure that people are not afraid to admit they may be struggling with their mental health because this fear of prejudice often stops them from getting the help they badly need. Citizens Advice has also raised concerns about the large amount of time mental health staff are devoting to dealing with the practical difficulties faced by their patients. As a result they said this was having a negative impact on their ability to manage the mental health of their patients and help them to complete a course of treatment and ultimately recover. The most common problems that mental health staff were being asked to assist with are debt and money problems, unemployment and work, housing and welfare and more than half of those surveyed said they had increased stress as a result of dealing with these nonhealth problems faced by their patients. Among the many issues staff reported that they spent appointment time helping patients with were: ● Budgeting or debt management plans ● Contacting public services/agencies on behalf of patients ● Providing supporting letters ● Assisting patients complete benefits applications
● Dealing with creditors for patients Citizens Advice has called for advice services for mental health patients to be better integrated which would alleviate the pressure on frontline mental health staff and enable them to work more effectively. Gillian Guy, chief executive of Citizens Advice, said: “If you're living with mental health problems, everyday issues like managing your money, dealing with your landlord, or applying for benefits can be much more difficult to manage. “But if these issues aren’t addressed, they can often escalate and make mental health problems worse - creating a vicious cycle that is difficult to break free from. “Providing people with practical support is essential to make sure these problems don't spiral out of control, but this should not be the job of already stretched mental health professionals. “To reduce pressure on frontline NHS staff and better support people with mental health problems, advice services should be available in mental health settings as a matter of course.” Dr Jed Boardman of the Royal College of Psychiatrists, added: “In order to stay mentally healthy, we all need enough money in our pockets, a decent roof over our heads, some valued work, and a supportive environment. People with mental health problems need all of these to aid their recovery, as well as engagement with effective therapies.” Anyone is welcome to visit the local offices of Citizens Advice even if they do not have an appointment. The advice they will be able to obtain will always be free, confidential and impartial. It holds weekly sessions at the St Michael’s Business Centre in Lyme Regis from 10am to 3pm on Wednesdays. If that is not convenient, advice sessions are held every weekday at the Citizens Advice offices in South Street, Bridport, also from 10am to 3pm.
Friday, March 23 2018 13
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FLASHBACKS with Richard Austin
Have you got your copy...
Tales from behind the lens of our award-winning photographer
How best to get your copy of LymeOnline DIRECT DELIVERY
FOR many years the Queen Mother was the only senior member of the royal family I hadn’t photographed, this omission came to an end at her 100th birthday blessing in St Paul’s Cathedral, London. I was sent to the morning service by the Western Morning News not at all knowing where or what sort of access I would be allocated. Then Queen’s press secretary Dickie Arbiter called all the photographers together outside the St Paul’s entrance, he told us that there would only be three photographers allowed inside the Cathedral - one to represent the regional press, national press and the press agency. He immediately called my name and said you are inside for the regional press. This was the golden ticket as far as I was concerned, all three of us had unsupervised access all areas inside the Cathedral where every member of our own royal family were present as well as royalty from all over the world.
Photographing the Queen Mum wasn’t easy because she became lost in the sea of people, but one picture came together in a perfect light where Prince Charles and his two sons, Prince William and Prince Harry, all moved into the frame as I focused on the Queen Mum. Other good pictures came when HRH left the Cathedral walking down the aisle with the Prince of Wales by her side, who I’m sure asked her if she wanted his arm to which she declined and walked proudly through the massive St Paul’s doors to thousands outside and millions watching on the television. She looked fantastic for a lady of 100 and when she had walked down the Cathedral steps and started to climb into her awaiting car she suddenly remembered she hadn’t waved goodbye to everyone and turned to do so to all gathered outside the Cathedral, including her daughter HRH The Queen. What a day and what an experience that was.
If you have a story for LymeOnline, call Francesca on 07810 221 420 or email edit@lyme-online.co.uk
THERE has been an unprecedented demand for the print version of LymeOnline, published every two weeks (issue 3 out on Friday, March 23rd). To ensure the maximum number of people get a copy and to maximise the response to advertising in the paper, we are setting up a door-to-door delivery service to all accessible properties in Lyme Regis. Our second issue contained no fewer than 78 stories about the Lyme Regis area and 48 photos, the most comprehensive coverage y any newspaper that has ever circulated in this area. In all there are 1,770 letterboxes in the town and last week we managed to delivery a paper to 1,280 of these (72.3%). We are doing our best not to deliver to holiday homes, second homes, those that are obviously unoccupied and those who have a notice saying “No junk mail or free newspapers”. Unfortunately, we are unable to deliver to those houses with locked gates or extra- long drives. We have recruited a number of youngsters (14 years and over) who are delivering to the estates where door-to-door is relatively easy and who are paid £10 per 100 copies(the industry norm is between 7p and 12p. But it has proved difficult to get sufficient number of people to cover the houses on the outskirts of the town. However, such has been the popularity of the LymeOnline print version a number of people have come forward to offered to delivery the paper in their road. So thank you to those people who have offered to deliver in Somers Road and Somers Field, Blue Waters Drive, Upper Westhill, Highcliff Road, Coram Avenue and Church Street. We are still looking for residents who may be able to do likewise in Sidmouth Road, Clappentail Lane, Clappentail Park, Portland Court, Marine Parade, The Cobb.
Then click on the issue you wish to read and the full page will appear on screen with an arrow to scroll through all pages. You can enlarge the screen to full size by clicking on the full size logo in the bottom right hand corner. If you have any technical problems call Francesca Evans on 07810 221 420 and she will attempt to talk you through the process.
BY PICK-UP WE have set up a number of distribution points where you can pick-up a print version of LymeOnline. These include the following:
LYME REGIS
Royal Lion Hotel, Broad Street Fortnam Smith & Banwell, Broad Street Outside Serendip, Broad Street (when fine) Paul The Hairdressers, Broad Street The Rock Point Inn, Broad Street Tourist Information Centre, Vic’s Fish & Chip Shop, Coombe Street Tesco, Broad Street, Co-Op, Broad Street, Post Office, Broad Street Library, Silver Street Nags Head, Silver Street Lyme Bay Medical Practice, Silver Street Lyme Regis Medical Centre, Uplyme Road Lyme Regis Convenience Store, Staples Terrace
UPLYME
Black Dog Tea Rooms Talbot Arms Uplyme Filling Station & Post Office
CHARMOUTH
Charmouth Stores (NISA), The Street Morgan’s Newsagents, The Street The George, The Street Royal Oak, The Street The Elms, The Street
HUNTERS LODGE/RAYMONDS HILL
Hunters Lodge Inn Raymonds Hill,Post Office & Stores
ON THE WEBSITE BY SUBSCRIPTION ALL the pages in the print version of LymeOnline also appear in digital form on our website. You can view these after 12 midnight on the day of publication. All you have to do is go to our website www.lyme-online.co.uk - and locate the box on the right hand side labelled “Digital Edition).
IF YOU want to be doubly sure you get a copy, or you live outside the town but want to keep in touch, we will send LymeOnline through the post. It will cost £1.50 a copy, minimum six issues. Call us on 07796 951991 to make the arrangements.
To contact us concerning distribution call Philip Evans on 07796 951 991
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MUSIC | THEATRE | WHAT’S ON | COMPETITIONS
Comic timing at its best in ‘Vicar of Dibley’ AUDIENCES at the Marine Theatre in Lyme Regis have been taken back to the 1990s this week, with an hilarious stage adaptation of TV favourite ‘The Vicar of Dibley’.
Staged by the Marine Players and directed by Fred Humphrey, the laugh-out-loud show was based on selected scenes, primarily from the first two series, and brought back all the sitcom’s beloved characters. The lead role of chocolate-loving vicar Geraldine Granger - famously played by Dawn French - was taken by Gemma Hatton, known locally for her comic performances with Lyme Regis Pantomime Society in recent years. It must be a daunting task to play such a popular part but, complete with her black bob cut, Gemma perfectly delivered witty asides as her character dealt with the simple and small-minded residents of her new parish of Dibley. In fact, the whole cast’s excellent comic timing had the audience in stitches throughout. Gemma was ably backed by several stalwarts of the Marine Theatre stage, not least her father Brian Rattenbury as the dithering Jim Trott; David Ruffle as pedantic parish council minutetaker Frank Pickle; and the wonderful Anne King as church organist, flower arranger and terrible cook Letitia Cropley. I always look forward to Anne’s performances and she never disappoints, always throwing herself into her role with aplomb. Even when forgetting to bring a prop on stage when I attended on opening night, she remained in character and dealt with the incident in such good humour that she won one of the biggest laughs of the night from the audience. It was so funny, I was told that the director was consider-
THEATRE REVIEW by Francesca Evans
The VICAR OF DIBLEY The Marine Players Marine Theatre
ing writing the mishap into the script! Rounding off the small cast was Dave Ballinger as foul-mouthed farmer Owen Newitt; Jim Pettifer as uptight parish council chairman David Horton; Jack Ratcliff as his simple but loveable son Hugo Horton and, of course, special mention must go to Lorraine Knowles as Hugo’s ditsy love interest, church verger Alice Tinker. It may have been 24 years since the first episode of ‘The Vicar of Dibley’ was aired, but the show was recently brought back to our thoughts following the sudden death of actress Emma Chambers, who famously played Alice. As a big fan, Lorraine was delighted to be cast in the role last year but, paying tribute to the late Chambers in the programme, she said she had been on a “rollercoaster of emotions” since her passing in February, adding that her excitement had changed to “utter determination to give it my all in her memory”. And that she did. Lorraine must have watched the series 100 times as she had Alice Tinker’s endearing mannerisms down to a tee. Her delivery of the famous ‘I Can’t Believe It’s Not Butter’ revelation was hysterical and her blossoming love story with Hugo, culminating in their wedding, won the hearts of the audience. I’m sure you did her proud, Lorraine.
FATHER and daughter Brian Rattenbury and Gemma Hatton play Jim Trott and Geraldine Granger alongside each other
VICAR Geraldine Granger (Gemma Hatton) shares a cuppa with verger Alice Tinker (Lorraine Knowles)
ALICE Tinker (Lorraine Knowles), Geraldine Granger (Gemma Hatton), Letitia Cropley (Anne King) and David Horton (Jim Pettifer). Inset, Lorraine as Alice Tinker - a character made famous by the late Emma Chambers The stage play was written by Ian Gower and Alice Tinker - Lorraine Knowles; Geraldine Paul Carpenter, adapted from the original TV se- Granger - Gemma Hatton; Woman - Linda ries by Richard Curtis and Paul Mayhew-Archer, Crawford; Tinky Winky - Grace Knowles; Dipsy with kind permission of Tiger Aspect Produc- - Phoebe Hatton. tions. All royalties donated to Comic Relief. PRODUCTION CREW: Director - Fred Formerly Lyme Regis Dramatic Society, the Humphrey; Stage Management - John Gooden, Marine Players were formed in 2016 to create a Richard Stirk; Props - Beverley Rattenbury, Jane closer relationship with the Marine Theatre and Tappin; Assistant Stage Manager - Linda Crawattract a younger and more wide-ranging mem- ford; Set - Fred Humphrey, Jen Humphrey, bership. In exchange for free use of the Marine, Cherine Hill and members of the Marine Playprofits from productions go towards the upkeep ers; Wardrobe - Rose May and members of the of the theatre. Last-minute tickets for tomorrow’s (Saturday, cast; Lighting Design, Lighting & Sound OperaMarch 24) final performance of ‘The Vicar of Di- tion - Steve Miller; Sound Preparation - Tony bley’ may still be available - call 01297 442138 to Hill; Set Erection & Painting - cast and crew members of the Marine Players; Organ Arrangebook. CAST: David Horton - Jim Pettifer; Frank ments - John Griswold; Artwork & Programme Pickle - David Ruffle; Jim Trott - Brian Ratten- - John Gooden, David Ruffle; Front of House bury; Hugo Horton - Jack Ratcliff; Owen Newitt Karol Kulik, members of the Marine Players and - Dave Ballinger; Letitia Cropley - Anne King; theatre volunteers.
OWEN Newitt (Dave Ballinger), Letitia Cropley (Anne King), David Horton (Jim Pettifer), Geraldine Granger (Gemma Hatton), Hugo Horton (Jack Ratcliff), Frank Pickle (David Ruffle), and Jim Trott (Brian Rattenbury)
THE new vicar in town charms Hugo Horton (Jack Ratcliff) while his father David Horton (Jim Pettifer) looks on
Geraldine (Gemma Hatton) offers advice to Hugo (Jack Ratcliff)
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MUSIC | THEATRE | WHAT’S ON | COMPETITIONS
Packed programme for first Children’s Week VENUES across the town will be holding special events over the Easter holidays for the first Lyme Regis Children’s Week. The Marine Theatre has led the organisation of the event, inviting local organisations to work together to stage 35 events for children over five days. Events will be held at the theatre, Lyme Regis Museum, the Town Mill, The Hub, Serendip bookshop, in the Story Boat on Marine Parade and at the skatepark in Charmouth Road, as well as on the beach and around the town. The week includes wild beach walks, sea rescue tales from the lifeboat men, painting, yoga, dance, storytelling, making pop bands, film screenings, skateboarding and more. Each day has been scheduled so that children and families can enjoy several sessions in one day, to make best use of the trip and have a great day out in Lyme Regis. Marine Theatre director and organiser of Lyme Regis Children’s Week, Gabby Rabbitts, said: “Having events for children is incredibly important for every community. “Children need to know that they are valued and should be encouraged to use theatres and
other creative spaces. These spaces are for children to use just as much as anyone else. “With so many brilliant organisations and fantastic creative individuals, it just makes perfect sense to get them all together for a week of fun and learning. “As well as bringing the children of our local community together, I am so pleased that the town’s organisations have an opportunity to work together too. Every invitation I made was received with positivity and it’s great to get to know people better. “I’m hoping that this is the first collaboration of many.” Lyme Regis Children’s Week will be held from Tuesday, April 3 to Saturday, April 7. Highlights of the week will include a wild food and wild art beach wander with Chris Holland – expect a taste of wild cooked food during the outing, a walk and talk along the beach, collecting things to make a group land art piece. Other events will include ‘The Sea in Song’ – family singing session with Diana Takezoe; ‘The Tiger Who Came to Tea Treasure Hunt’ – from Serendip and all around Lyme; ‘Junior Dinosaur’ with award winning author and illustra-
This month at the Marine Catch up with Lyme’s Little Theatre by the Sea
BEWARE the Ides of March… Julius Caesar was warned to be on his guard during this normally springlike month and whilst he was stabbed in the back by his good friend Brute, I wonder if that famous leader had to deal with the Beast of the East, Storm Emma and the Mini Beast. Chances are he’d long given up on Britain’s dodgy climate and headed back to Rome. But with climate change now a thing of reality, this unusual weather pattern that many Lyme lifers have said they’ve never seen the like, the several days of snowmageddon saw drama and mayhem at the Marine Theatre. Fortunately I don’t live so far away that I can’t walk in and, if truth be known, I quite enjoyed the challenge of battling the elements to reach the inner sanctity of the Marine. Not so much the Dunkirk as the Courchevel spirit as I donned my boots and warm coat to trudge through the snow. Still, there’s one thing about this extreme weather, it makes you feel you deserve something nice so my usual Friday treat of a decaff cappuccino has also been a Monday treat (and occasionally a Tuesday and Wednesday one). But it didn’t last and normal service soon resumed, including the first class service from Lyme Bay Auctions who returned to move our beautiful grand piano from the stage back to her usual home in the bay window. It’s not often you come across people who are utterly willing to do something from the kindness of their heart, or in this case, four hearts, because that’s how many men it took to move her. So a big thank you to Simon and his gang!
We had a fire drill for our wonderful volunteers. This is always fun and even more so when you forget how to silence the alarm. It’s earpiercingly loud, especially when you’re standing next to the siren, as we all were. I was hoping to persuade a tall, handsome, uniformed fireman to come along and give a formal presentation to our lovely group, I think they’d probably take more on board from someone like that than me, but sadly it’s not something the Dorset & Wilts Fire Service offer. Pity. However, we soon moved onto the next project and it’s a biggie! The Children’s Week during Easter is jam-packed with every possible type of activity you could possibly wish for. Gabby Rabbitts soon had masses of local businesses and organisations involved, including B Sharp, the Town Mill, Serendip bookshop and the museum. If you have young children you will be hard-pressed not to find something to enjoy and there will be snacks available in the Marine Bar. I’ve heard a rumour that there is also going to be cake made by Claire Jillings, if you have been lucky enough to sample her cakes, you know they are not to be missed! With several live screenings scheduled and the Marine Young Company starting, it looks like it’s going to be a very full and exciting month ahead. Let’s hope the Ides of April are less chilling.
Sophia Moseley,
Theatre Manager
tor Rob Biddulph; ‘In the Band Jam Session’ with Pete Wilde; ‘The Little Mermaid’ indoor outdoor cinema experience; and a skate jam at the skatepark.
For full details of Children’s Week events, dates and time, visit the Marine Theatre website at www.marinetheatre.com/lyme-regis-childrensweek/
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MUSIC | THEATRE | WHAT’S ON | COMPETITIONS
Top Dorset party Mad Jeff returns with band to entertain reggae party at Marine at charity ball
PLAYING the hottest of tunes straight from the islands, DJs Papa Yellow and MadJeff combine to create a unique party atmosphere on Easter Saturday. The DJs will be joined at the Marine Theatre on Saturday, March 31 by Jabbrock, who wow audiences wherever they play with their unique style of reggae and dub and all original songs. The band has performed at many festivals , including Sunrise, Secret Garden Party and Beautiful Days, and has supported acts including Culture, Dreadzone and Easy Star All Stars. They’ve also recorded with Dennis Bovell and Boy George and are soon to release their first long-awaited album. Tickets for Mad Jeff’s Reggae Party, 8pm to 12midnight, cost £7 and are available by calling 07500 897 930 or emailing jeff@djmadjeff.com
DORSET-based party band Ignition has been announced as the entertainment for a Masked Spring Ball in aid of the Lyme Regis branch of Cancer Research UK. The ball will be held at the Woodmead Halls on Saturday, April 21 where Ignition will deliver an unforgettable performance that is guaranteed to get you dancing all night, with music from across the decades, including artists from Craig David, Shawn Mendez and Bruno Mars to Stevie Wonder and Michael Jackson. Tickets are available for £25 per head or £225 for a table of 10, including a cocktail on arrival and sumptuous buffet supper. There will also be a prize for the best mask. To book, call Philip Evans on 07796 951 991.
COMPETITION RESULTS THANK you to all those who entered our competition to win tickets to the River Cottage Food Fair. The following winners have now been selected - Ann Fleet, Helen Matthews, Susan Gale, Nick Jones and Mrs J. McClellan. All winners should have been contacted directly by River Cottage to arrange their tickets. Apologies to those who entered our competition to win tickets to the Rock For Heroes event at the Marine Theatre. The show was cancelled and therefore the prize of tickets is no longer available.
What’s on... Friday, March 23
‘The Vicar of Dibley’ by the Marine Players Marine Theatre, 7pm (nightly shows until March 24) All the characters of the cherished comedy return to the stage, brought to life with a wonderful local cast, courtesy of the Marine Players. Tickets cost £12 - call 01297 442138. Easter Bingo Woodmead Halls, 8pm Hosted by the Mayor of Lyme Regis in aid of her chosen charity of the year - St Michael’s Parish Church’s tower fund.
Saturday, March 24 - Sunday, March 25
100 Years On: The Whitchurch Men Who Went to War Whitchurch Canonicorum Village Hall, 10am-4pm An exhibition to commemorate 100 years since the end of the First World War, with displays detailing the 18 PHILIP EVANSCanonicorum remembered on men from Whitchurch the village war memorial. philip@lyme-online.co.uk
Saturday, March 24
Knit & Knatter Coffee Morning Charmouth Village Hall, 10am A coffee morning hosted by Charmouth's Knit & Knatter group. Bethany Chapel Coffee Morning Bethany Chapel, 10.30am Refreshments and cakes raising funds for the air ambulance and lifeboat. Free entry. Live Music Night @ The Nag’s Head The Nag’s Head, 9pm Live music every Saturday night, this week with acoustic covers duo Gut & Steel.
Sunday, March 25
Café Worship Uplyme Church, 9.30am Relaxed, all age, café-style worship at Uplyme Church, held on the last Sunday of every month. The Sunday Sessions Marine Theatre, 3pm This is a new relaxed Sunday afternoon event with the best in local talent. The launch is hosted by Street & Matthews, an acoustic duo who are one half of popular local band DeltaTango7. Exeter Male Voice Praise Uplyme Village Hall, 4pm The Exeter Male Voice Praise choir will perform, followed by a full Sunday tea, organised by Bethany Chapel. No admission charge and no collection. For enquiries call 01297 443890, 598246 or 35050.
Tuesday, March 27
Tickets NOW ON SA LE
Lyme Business Network Meeting Lyme Regis Golf Club, 8am Lyme Business Network is a supportive, local, business-focused group which runs on the second and fourth Tuesdays of each month, 8am to 9.30am at Lyme Regis Golf Club. Talk: Summerhill House Woodmead Halls, 2.30pm A talk by Audrey Standhaft on Summerhill House, presented by the Lyme Regis Society. All welcome - entry is free for members or £3 for visitors, including refreshments. Alpha Course Costa Coffee Lyme Regis, 6.30pm Alpha Course held every Tuesday of March at Costa Coffee in Broad Street, where you are invited to investigate questions about life. Your hosts will treat you to coffee and cake. Royal Ballet Live Screening: Bernstein Centenary Marine Theatre, 6.15pm To mark the birth of Leonard Bernstein’s birth, the Royal Ballet celebrate with an all-Bernstein programme from choreographers Wayne McGregor, Liam Scarlett and Christopher Wheeldon, broadcast live to the Marine Theatre. Tickets cost £15 in advance or £17.50 on the door - call 01297 442138.
Wednesday, March 28
National Theatre Live Screening: Julius Caesar Marine Theatre, 6pm Nicholas Hytner directs a new take on the Shakespeare classic starring Ben Whishaw (Skyfall, Hamlet), broadcast live to the Marine Theatre. Willow Weaving Uplyme Village Hall, 7pm A talk and workshop on willow weaving led by Jenny Knight and organised by the Uplyme & Lyme Regis Horticultural Society. Entry costs £2.
Friday, March 30
Art exhibition: ‘The Light That We Seek’ Town Mill (open daily until April 11) An art exhibition featuring seascapes by Sue Lewin, botanical illustration by Chris Goodman and sculptures by Greta Berlin in the Town Mill's Courtyard Gallery, open every day from March 30 to April 11. The Pick ‘n’ Mix Give A Gig The Hub, 7.30pm
Send your diary dates to francesca@lyme-online.co.uk www.lyme-online.co.uk/events
A night of entertainment as part of charity Youth Music’s national Give a Gig campaign. Headlined by popular local band Mr Jéan with support from B Sharp house band Launchpad and DJ set with D&T.
Saturday, March 31
Mad Jeff’s Reggae Party Marine Theatre, 8.30pm DJs Mad Jeff and Papa Yellow are joined by Jabbrock, playing the hottest reggae tunes straight from the islands at the Marine Theatre in Lyme Regis. Live Music Night @ The Nag’s Head The Nag’s Head, 9pm Live music every Saturday night, this week with popular local covers band Delta Tango 7.
Sunday, April 1
Easter Bonnet Parade Lyme Regis Baptist Church, 2pm This annual Easter event invites both young and old alike to make an Easter bonnet or hat and bring it to the old chapel in Lyme Regis Baptist Church for judging at 2pm, followed by a procession through the town centre at 3pm. Cinema Screening: ‘Murder on the Orient Express’ Marine Theatre, 6.30pm When a murder occurs on the train he’s travelling on, celebrated detective Hercule Poirot is recruited to solve the case. Tickets cost £4 in advance or £6 on the door - call 01297 442138.
Monday, April 2
The Great Woodroffe School Duck Race Windsor Terrace, 12pm Duck race in aid of The Woodroffe School PTA. Ducks cost £1 and will be available from 10am on the day of the race in the town centre, with the race itself starting at 12noon at Windsor Terrace. Cinema Screening: ‘Suffragette’ Marine Theatre, 6.30pm Meryl Streep stars in this British drama, set in 1912 and 1913, that tells the story of the suffragette movement. Tickets cost £4 in advance or £6 on the door - call 01297 442138.
Tuesday, April 3 - Wednesday, April 4
Secondhand Book Sale Marine Parade shelters, open from 11am both days A two-day secondhand book sale, held on the seafront in aid of the Friends of Lyme Regis Museum.
Wednesday, April 4
Children’s Crafts Lyme Regis Museum, 10am-5pm Paint your own take-home souvenir plaster of paris dinosaur, or get creative with paper crafts making a colourful spring flowers and a surprise hatching egg, both for just pocket-money prices.
Thursday, April 5
Talk: ‘From Sea Dragons to Bricks, a Journey of 160 Million Years’ Woodmead Halls, 2.30pm A talk by museum education officer Chris Andrew, preceded by the annual general meeting of the Friends of Lyme Regis Museum. AGM starts at 2.30pm and talk at 3.15pm. Entry is £2 for members and £3 for visitors, including refreshments at 3pm.
Friday, April 6
The BIG Breakfast Woodmead Halls, 8am-12.30pm The annual BIG Breakfast in aid of Cancer Research UK, this year to be held in the new venue of Woodmead Halls. Full English breakfasts for £6 and rolls for £3, takeaway available on collection.
Saturday, April 7
‘Perfect’ by Tessa Bide Marine Theatre, 1.30pm Family theatre: an adaptation of the beautiful illustrated book of by Nicola Davies and Cathy Fisher. Tickets cost £6 for children, £8 for adults or £25 for a family ticket when booked in advance at www.marinetheatre.com or by calling 01297 442138. Kusanganisa Marine Theatre, 7.30pm Kusanganisa is the Shona word for ‘mixture’ that aptly describes this new world music and jazz project involving four musicians all from different traditions. Tickets cost £10 in advance or £12 on the door – call 01297 442138.
Sunday, April 8
Bolshoi Ballet Live Screening: Giselle Marine Theatre, 1.30pm Live ballet screening at the Marine Theatre with prima ballerina Svetlana Zakharova in the ultimate ballerina role. Tickets cost £11.50 in advance or £14 on the door - call 01297 442138.
PLUS...DON’T MISS LYME REGIS CHILDREN’S WEEK EVENTS - SEE PAGE 15
Friday, March 23 2018 17
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.
LYME REGIS
APRIL GOINGS ON
LYME REGIS CHILDRENS ’ WEEK OVER 30 EVENTS ONLINE
MUSIC THE SUNDAY SESSIONS
T uesday 3 - Saturday 7, across 8 venues in L yme.
Sunday 22; bar opens and star ts 3 P P.M. .M. Free Entr y
TALK RISE UP WOMEN!
THEATRE COURSE MARINE YOUNG COMPANY Y
Friday 6; star ts 2 P P.M. .M. £7 adv. v. / £6 adv v.. Theatre Friends / £9 door
Monday 23 April to Monday 9 July y.. £100 for 10 weeks. All details online.
THEATRE PERFECT BY TESSA BIDE
TALK HENRY BLOFELD - 78 RETIRED
Saturday 7; star ts 2 P P.M. .M. £8 adult / £6 child / £25 family
Saturday 28; bar opens 6:30 P P.M. .M. / star ts 7:30 P P.M. .M. £20 adv v.. / £23 door
MUSIC KUSANGANISA Saturday 7; bar opens 7 P P.M., .M., star ts 8 P P.M. .M. £10 adv. v. / £9 adv v.. Theatre Friends /£12 door
SCREENING RSC LIVE: MACBETH Wednesday 11; bar opens 6 P.M., P.M., star ts 7 P.M. P.M. £11 adv. v. / £10 adv v.. Theatre Friends /£13.50 door
COMEDY MITCH BENN
MUSIC JAZZ IN THE BAR: JULIE DUNN Sunday 29; bar opens 7 P P.M., .M., star ts 8 P P.M. .M. £8 adv v.. / £7 adv v.. Theatre Friends / £12 door
TICKETS ONLINE
MARINETHEATRE.COM
Friday 13; bar opens 7 P P.M., .M., star ts 8 P P.M. .M. £12.50 adv v.. / £14.50 door
LYME REGIS TOURIST INFORMATION CENTRE
COMEDY ROBIN INCE
01297 442138
Thursday 19; bar opens 7 P P.M., .M., star ts 8 P.M. P.M. £15 adv v.. / £18 door
MANY MORE EVENTS ONLINE CHURCH STREET
LYME REGIS
.
DT7 3QB
MARINETHEATRE.COM
BRIDPORT TOURIST INFORMATION CENTRE
01308 424901
BOOKING FEE MAY APPLY*
thefoodpages
18 Friday, March 23 2018
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DINING OUT NEWS & REVIEWS
Lyme’s best kept culinary secret PHILIP EVANS
Bloody Mary crowned with an oyster. Quite delicious. The first course served was a IT’S Lyme’s best kept culinary warming cup of lobster bisque, just what was required on a cold secret - but not for long. evening, followed by game ballanTo celebrate his tenth anniversary tine (from the French ‘balle’, meanof owning the Mariners Hotel, Jerry ing a package), served with Ramsdale is launching a number of kumquat and Seville orange marnew initiatives with the emphasis malade on a toasted sourdough. very much on fine dining. Very comforting. With this in mind - and with two By this time there was an agreetalented chefs in situ, Nick Larby able buzz around the room with our and Shaun Cassidy - the Mariners is fellow diners nodding approval after planning to stage a seven-course every mouthful, especially after the taster menu on the first Friday of third course - pan fried halibut with every month, commencing in May. pickled quails eggs and celeriac On Monday and Tuesday of this puree. week Lyme’s expanding and everThe main course was just as poppopular bed and breakfast fraternity uar - free range chicken breast with were given a taste of what their crispy pressed thigh, herb gnocchi, guests can expect if they direct them morel mushrooms and a truffle split to the Mariners Hotel for their jus. evening meals. Just for a moment I thought I was Around 40 B&B proprietors acca judge on Master Chef (a secret amcepted Mr Ramsdale’s invitation to bition), such was the quality of this try the new taster menu - and none dish. Nick and John, get your appliof them came away disappointed. cations in chaps. And in a clever promotional ploy, Whilst we were eulogising over the Mr Ramsdale gave each establishmain course, the next up tricked us ment a discount card for their guests all. At first we thought it was a pudwith money-off benefits ranging ding but it turned out to be what from 10 per cent to 100 per cent to they call in the trade, a pre-sweet help promote his new dining experithree quenelles of goats cheese, orence. ange, lemon and nougatine with an Having worked on publishing proedible flower. jects with Mr Ramsdale in the past, One of the guests afterwards told he was kind enough to invite my me: “I thought, oh no, I don’t like wife Jackie and I to the Monday goats cheese but it was marvellous. gathering and commissioned this Now I’m a convert!” page as he is a firm believer in local We may have been confused but papers. the sweet course was well worth There’s always a friendly welcome waiting for - a coconut panacotta at the Mariners and we were greeted with coconut foam, passion fruit with a stiff gin and tonic and some sorbet and exotic fruit salad. For delightful canapés including shots of someone with a sweet-tooth like me, it was the perfect way to end a memorable evening. The Mariners Hotel But it wasn’t quite the end to Nick and Lyme Regis Shaun’s talents home-made petit fours Seven Course Taster Menu followed with the coffee and they were a Lobster Bisque sheer delight. The management at the Mariners have ******** other ideas to re-estabGame Ballantine, Kumquat & lish their restaurant by Seville Orange Marmalade re-introduing lunches, Toasted Sourdough especially for the business community. ******** The Mariners will Pan-Fried Halibut, Pickled Quails Eggs also be serving lunches & Spiced Celeriac Puree on Easter Sunday (April 1st). To book a table at ******** the Mariners call Free Range Chicken Breast, 01297 442753 Crispy Pressed Thigh, Herb Gnocchi
philip@lyme-online.co.uk
FIRST course - lobster bisque
DELICIOUS and tempting canapés were served as the guests arrived
SECOND course - game ballantine
HOTEL owner Jerry Ramsdale welcomes the bed and breakfast proprietors to the Mariners Hotel
THIRD course - pan fried halibut
CHEFS Nick Larby (left) and Shaun Cassidy pictured with hotel manager Stuart Harrop after impressing diners at the Mariners Hotel with their first seven-course taster session
FOURTH course - free range chicken breast
Morel Mushrooms & a Truffle Split Jus ******** Trio of Goats Cheese Orange, Lemon & Nougatine ******** Coconut Panacotta Coconut Foam, Passion Fruit Sorbet & Exotic Fruit Salad ******** Coffee and Petit Fours
SIXTH course - coconut panacotta
FIFTH course - trio of goats cheese
thefoodpages
Friday, March 23 2018 19
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DINING OUT NEWS & REVIEWS
A swimming success! New café bar opens on seafront PHILIP EVANS
philip@lyme-online.co.uk
H
EAVY snow did not deter friends and supporters of the new owners of Lyme Regis’ trendy new café bar, SWIM, from attending the opening launch on Sunday.
Dozens of them converged on the seafront premises with glorious views over Lyme Bay, anxious to see if the project will live up to the owners’ ambition of creating “the best seaside café bar in the South West”. From what they saw on Sunday, the over-riding reaction was that their expectations have not been overstated. I have no doubt their burning ambitions will reach fruition. Combine the setting with the experience and success they achieved in a relatively short time in the catering industry, they are on to a sure-fire winner. SWIM will enhance, and possibly lead, Lyme’s growing reputation as a foodie resort. The former Bay The Bay restaurant, then owned by Tony and Stephanie Colston, has been acquired by the team that turned The Bull in Bridport into one of Dorset’s most popular boutique hotels and also built The Stable pizza, pie and cider restaurant chain across the UK before selling out to Fullers Brewery. They have invested heavily in completely remodelling the town council-owned Marine Parade premises, converting the restaurant into a stylish café bar focussing on craft drinks and an “impeccable menu at affordable prices”.
As part of the conversion, floor to ceiling glazing has been in- DOZENS of friends and supporters attended the official launch event at SWIM on Sunday afternoon, despite the snowy conditions outside stalled, making the most of the views over the Jurassic Coast, and an extended outside seating area to increase the number of covers. After serving delicious finger food and ensuring everyone had a glass or three of bubbly, coowner and founder Richard Cooper seized the DJ’s mic to thank all those for attending their launch. He spoke how they had started The Stable chain about six years ago by utilising a room at the back of The Bull Hotel in Bridport to sell pizzas. He told the crowd: “We had no idea what we were doing but we just loved doing it and it grew and grew and now we are here.” Richard joked about the challenges in converting the premises, managing the project through a WhatsApp group, and he thanked all those who had worked so hard to reach their deadline for opening. He also paid tribute to his staff, who he referred to as ‘Swimmers’, and his fellow coowners, wife Nikki, Kyle McLeod and Andy Briggs, who after Richard’s speech posed for photos to record the occasion. He concluded his speech by saying: “This is SWIM and it is what it is.” Talking to me after the opening, Richard said that as well as opening for breakfast, lunch, dinner and cocktails allyear round, they were anxious that SWIM play an active and supportive role in the community life of Lyme Regis. Owners Nikki Cooper, Andy Briggs, Kyle McLeod and Richard Cooper at the official opening. Below, guests included owners of the former By The Bay restaurant Stephanie and Tony Colston (centre) and town councillor Jeff Scowen (right). Inset, Richard Cooper thanks those who have supported the project and, below left, staff at SWIM. Photos by Francesca Evans
communitynews
20 Friday, March 23 2018
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‘Shady Tree’ talk postponed again
Mayor raises £550 for church tower
LOCAL historian Ken Gollop had to postponed his popular ‘Tales From Under Shady Tree’ talk for the second time due to snow. The talk was cancelled two weeks ago due to heavy snow, and was scheduled to take place on Sunday but had to be postponed again due to the weather. Mr Gollop (pictured) attracts a huge audience of residents to his nostalgic talk every year. The event is now expected to be held after Easter, with a date yet to be announced.
Willow weaving with horticultural society UPLYME & Lyme Regis Horticultural Society will host a willow weaving workshop on Wednesday, March 28. The event will be held in Uplyme Village Hall at 7.30pm with Jennie Knight of JK Willows, based in Axminster. Jennie creates bumble bees, dragonflies, snails and much more which she sells locally. She will show members and visitors how to make one of her creations from willow and help those attending to create their own to take home. To book a place, costing £2 for materials, call Jenny Harding on 01297 444034 or jennyhlyme@hotmail.co.uk. Bring your own secateurs if possible. For those who just want to watch, entry is free for society members or £3 for visitors. The evening will also include the chairman's Bulb Competition - a pot or container planted with flowering bulbs, or a vase of cut flowers from bulbs. Plug plants to grow on for the July Summer Show will also be distributed.
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THE Mayor of Lyme Regis, Councillor Michaela Ellis, can add £550 to her fund for the tower at St Michael’s Parish Church in Lyme Regis following a successful coffee morning on Saturday. The well-attended coffee morning was held in the church hall on Saturday morning. The mayor has chosen the tower fund as her charity of the year and has organised a number of events to raise money towards the necessary repairs to the bell tower, which is suffering from water ingress. The next event will be Easter bingo at the Woodmead Halls on Friday, March 23 - eyes down 8pm.
Family Notices
LymeOnline letters Send your letters to francesca@lyme-online.co.uk
Connie Rowe A SERVICE of remembrance and thanksgiving for the life of Sylvia Constance Rowe, who died aged 88, was held at St Michael’s Parish Church in Lyme Regis. Mrs Rowe was a much respected Lyme Regis resident who lived in Queen’s Walk for many years, wife of the late Les Rowe and mother to Martin, Rodney and Nick The service was conducted by the Reverend Rosemary Bragg, who in her address spoke of Mrs Rowe’s “generosity of spirit”. Memories of Mrs Rowe were delivered by grandsons Dominic and Alex, and granddaughter Phoebe recited the poem ‘Dear Lord I am 80’. Committal took place at Lyme Regis Cemetery with those present at the service being invited afterwards to Lyme Regis Football Club for refreshments.
GET INVOLVED WITH YOUR COMMUNITY PAPER
Brothers have shown great community spirit
Love and best wishes to my husband Douglas on our 65th Wedding Anniversary April 4th
Love always Pam xx
■ TOM and Sam Eaton, who came unselfishly to the aid of so many in the first snow, once again were able to help early on Monday morning after Lyme was once more ice bound by blizzards on Sunday night. My husband and I were due to be taken to Guildford by our son in order for my husband to officiate at the cremation and thanksgiving service of a close family member on Tuesday. After travelling down through light snow on Sunday he stayed at the Royal Lion Hotel on Sunday night aware that the snow here was increasing in intensity and that we were increasingly marooned as the blizzard and wind built up on our drive and the approach. In the morning it was iced up. Tom and Sam brought their Land Rover and with difficulty cleared the way for our son to collect his elderly parents to make the journey - quite hairy at times - over to Dorchester and on the Ringwood road and A31 in time to prepare for Tuesday morning’s services in Guildford . These two have shown wonderful community spirit and friendship during this time and we and our family appreciate their willingness and help very much. Audrey and Keith Vivian, Lyme Regis
communitynews
Friday, March 23 2018 21
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WE WILL REMEMBER THEM ALBERT THOMAS COOK
Mad March Hare run for Motoguzzi Club THE West Dorset branch of the Motoguzzi Club GB will celebrate Easter with a Mad March Hare’s Run on Sunday, March 25. The group are planning a scenic and leisurely 35-mile bike ride from Broadwindsor Craft Centre, leaving at 10.30am. They will be heading to the Aviator Café at Dunkeswell Airfield, near Honiton, and all Motoguzzi riders are welcome to join them, includ-
ing non-members. The group has a busy social calendar this spring, with events all over the South West. Those interested in taking part in the ride, or joining the branch, should contact Simon Beadles on 07870 603 345 for the Lyme Regis area, Peter Dempster on 07964 510 443 for Devon area and Bob Smith on 01935 472739 for Somerset.
Private, 1st Battalion, Wiltshire Regiment, Service No. 26691 Born 1886 in Lyme Regis and died March 24 1918 in Arras, France Albert was a mason by trade and enlisted in the Dorsetshire Regiment at Lyme Regis. He was eventually transferred to 1st Battalion, Wiltshire Regiment and did not arrive in France until sometime in 1916. At the start of 1916, the 1st Battalion were in reserve at Papot. In July 1916 the battalion moved towards the Somme area. They did not take part in the main attack on July 1 1916 but did go into action a few days later at Thiepval on July 4 1916. They remained on the Western Front engaged in heavy fighting throughout and in July 1917
A REGULAR series commemorating the 100th anniversaries of the deaths of all men from Lyme Regis and the surrounding area who died in the First World War. This week, we remember Albert Cook, with thanks to Vernon Rattenbury from the Royal British Legion for the research. moved to Ypres where they faced mustard gas for the first time. The 1st Battalion, Wiltshire Regiment started 1918 in the Laqnicourt sector, North East of Bapaume remaining there for two months. On March 21 1918 they were in reserve at Achiet-LeGrand when the German Army launched a major offensive. The battalion were in contact with the enemy for the next six days sustaining many casualties. Albert Cook was killed during this First Battle of Bapaume. Husband of Elizabeth Cook of 37 Sherborne Lane, Lyme Regis, he has no known grave and is commemorated on the Arras Memorial, France, bay 7, as well as on the Lyme Regis war memorials in the parish church and in the town.
Easter Bonnet Parade celebrates 20th year CELEBRATING its twentieth year, the annual Lyme Regis Easter Bonnet Parade will be held on Easter Sunday, April 1st. The traditional, family event is always well attended and organisers are hoping for another big crowd to celebrate the special anniversary. Children and adults are invited to decorate a hat or bonnet, which will be judged in various age categories at 2pm in the Old Chapel at Lyme Regis Baptist Church. Prizes have been donated by Judith Pothercary, The Rock Point Inn and Lyme Convenience Stores.
The Easter Bonnet Parade, led by the Mayor of Lyme Regis, Councillor Michaela Ellis, will leave the Baptist Church at3pm and proceed down Broad Street, finishing on the seafront. Lyme Regis Majorettes will be taking part. Organiser and town crier Alan Vian said: “We look forward to seeing a great crowd of people, many of whom come from quite a distance for this special occasion, wearing Easter bonnets or simply lining the streets to watch the spectacle. “Celebrate a touch of spring with the colour and the spectacle of the Easter Bonnet Parade.”
Uplyme tots search for signs of spring CHILDREN from Uplyme Pre-School pulled on their wellies and walked across the muddy fields to Cannington Viaduct last Friday. On the way they looked for signs of spring, spotting lots of newly born lambs with their mothers as well as primroses, snowdrops and catkins. On arriving at the viaduct, the children were fascinated to hear their voices echo under the arches. The walk marked the final day of this term’s theme ‘Where We Live’ before finishing this half term with Easter activities and celebrations.
If you have a story for LymeOnline, call editor Francesca Evans on 07810 221420
classifieds&jobs
22 Friday, March 23 2018
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Harbour Inn
Proposals Invited for Miller’s Garage Licensee/ Tenancy at The Town Mill
The Trustees would be pleased to receive proposals from prospective tenants or licensees on a 3 to 5 year lease for The Miller’s Garage workshop and retail space at The Town Mill, Mill Lane, Lyme Regis. If you think your creative small business could grow and develop in the unique setting of The Town Mill, we’d like to hear from you! You would be joining several other artisan businesses, art galleries, and a working watermill. The Town Mill won a gold award at the Dorset Tourism Awards and a silver at the South West Tourism Awards for ‘Small Visitor Attraction of the Year’ in 2017/18. Please register your interest with Sarah at managertownmill@googlemail.com or 01297 444042
URGENTLY REQUIRED
Lyme Regis
& RESTAURANT
GENERAL ASSISTANT wanted in small seaside hotel with fine dining restaurant. Duties to include Reception, Bar and Waiter/Waitressing. Approx 40 hours per week over 5 days to include weekends and some split shifts. Salary based on experience.
HOUSE KEEPER/WAITER/WAITRESS Duties to include all aspects of cleaning small hotel, servicing guests rooms, and serving breakfast to guests. Approx 32 - 40 hours per week over 4 or 5 days to include weekends. Salary based on experience.
PART TIME SEASONAL AND WEEKEND STAFF WANTED - WAITING, KITCHEN ASSISTANTS, AND HOUSEKEEPING Will include weekends and may include split shifts. Salary based on experience.
Silver Street Lyme Regis DT7 3HS | 01297 442753 enquiries@hotellymeregis.co.uk
NOW RECRUITING CHEFS of all experience levels - full and part time Must be able to cope with the pressure of working in one of Lyme’s busiest pub/restaurant kitchens Good rates of pay Part time EARLY MORNING CLEANER 3-4 mornings per week More hours may be available in summer Apply for both positions by telephoning
01297 442299
23 Marine Parade, The Cobb, Lyme Regis, Dorset, DT7 3JF
We offer the most competitive advertising rates in the area To advertise local services and job vacancies, call Philip Evans on 07796 951 991 or email philip@lyme-online.co.uk ITEM FOR SALE
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NEW Babyliss 20 heated hair rollers £15. Single foldaway bed with cover, good condition £20. 01297 443028 LARGE dark green leather pouffe, size 32”x26”x16” £10. Evenings Lyme Regis 443419.
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Friday, March 23 2018 23
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LymeOnline Sport
email your sports reports to edit@lyme-online.co.uk
Bailey pleased with his first game in charge of Seasiders By PHILIP EVANS
FEATURED GAME
philip@lyme-online.co.uk
WITH no Western League game, Chard Town were able to field a strong side at home to Lyme Regis, playing under caretaker manager Mark Bailey for the first time.
It was all square at 1-1 at half-time with Fred Parsons giving Lyme the lead with a tap-in after a superb eightman one touch passing move. Chard equalised before the interval and looked a much better side after the
tables Devon & Exeter Division One P W Exeter Universoty 2nds15 11 Lyme Regis 16 8 Colyton 9 8 Lapford 13 7 Perry Street 12 6 Chard Town Reserves 15 6 Sidmouth Town 2nds 11 6 Cullompton Rgrs 2nds 13 5 14 5 Chagford Heavitree United 11 3 Wellington Reserves 12 3 Bickleigh 1sts 12 3 Alphington 2nds 16 2
D 2 4 1 2 4 2 1 3 1 3 3 0 2
L 2 4 0 4 2 7 4 5 8 5 11 9 12
F 51 39 42 40 33 25 38 38 31 23 30 30 16
A Gd 17 34 30 9 11 31 28 12 17 16 40 -15 26 12 27 11 33 -2 39 -16 63 -33 55 -30 45 -29
Pts 35 28 25 23 22 20 19 18 16 12 12 9 8
Devon & Exeter Division Five 14 11 Halwill 2nds Black Swan Town 13 10 Lyme Regis Res 14 10 Elmore 2nds 9 9 Hemyock 14 8 Millwey Rise 13 8 Central 15 7 Awliscombe 14 5 Ilminster Town Res 17 5 Exwick Village 10 5 Culm United 16 5 Dunkeswell Rovers 14 4 Westexe Park Rangers 14 2 Offwell Rangers 15 0
1 1 1 0 3 1 2 1 2 1 0 0 1 0
2 2 3 0 3 4 6 8 10 4 11 10 11 15
46 70 40 36 41 36 51 29 34 37 44 22 31 7
23 23 24 36 15 25 6 30 28 13 26 20 32 19 35 -6 51 -17 17 20 49 -5 65 -43 72 -41 91 -84
34 31 31 27 27 25 23 16 16* 15* 15 12 7 -1*
Perry Street Division One P Halstock 8 IlminsterColts 10 Farway United 9 Forton Rangers 8 Waytown Hounds 8 Hawkchurch 10 Perry Street Reserves 9 Shepton Reserves 9 Uplyme 9 Chard Rangers 12
W 7 7 6 6 5 4 2 2 2 0
D 1 1 2 0 1 1 1 1 1 1
L 0 2 1 2 2 5 6 6 6 11
Gd 39 17 19 10 6 -4 -14 -14 -14 -45
Pts 22 22 20 18 16 13 7 7 7 1
Perry Street Division Two Thorncombe 12 10 Misterton Reserves 10 8 Forton Rangers Res 12 8 Charmouth 11 7 Dowlish & Donyatt 12 5 Crewkerne Rangers 7 3 Kingsbury 8 3 South Petherton Res 12 3 Combe A 12 4 Chard Utd Reserves 13 2 Winsham Reserves 14 2
2 1 1 2 2 3 2 0 2 2 1
0 1 3 2 5 1 8 9 6 9 11
35 28 22 8 0 4 -8 -7 -19 -21 -42
32 25 25 23 17 12 11 9 9* 8 7
Perry Street Division Three Donyatt United 13 10 Ilminster Town A 11 10 Crewkerne Rang Res 11 7 Merriott Dynamos 8 6 Lyme Rovers 10 5 Farway Reserves 10 4 Thorncombe Reserves 12 3 Netherbury Reserves 11 3 Chard Rangers Res 11 2 Chard United Allstars 12 0
2 0 0 0 2 1 2 1 1 1
1 1 4 2 3 5 7 7 8 11
32 30 10 6 14 -4 -25 6 -27 -36
32 30 21ß 18 17 13 11 10 7 1
Chard Town 2, Lyme Regis Reserves 2 Devon & Exeter League Division Five Scorer: Fred Parsons (2) break, taking the lead in the 72nd minute. Parsons hit a glorious 25yarder two minutes before time to earn the Seasiders a much-deserved point in their bid to stay in the promotion race in the Devon & Exeter League Division One. Bailey was delighted with the performance, commenting afterwards about the “excellent” team spirit with the Seasiders contributing in no small measure in what spectators thought was a a good game of football. The caretaker manager was impressed with new signing Joe Urquart’s contribution, but he thought it was a good all-round team performance. With only two league games played on Saturday, Lyme stay in second place in the league table but favourites Colyton, who have no less than seven games in hand over Lyme, moved into third place with a 5-0 win over Wellington on the Axminster astro turf and are now only three points behind Lyme. Lyme Rovers’ match against Ilminster Reserves was called off because of a waterlogged pitch. Uplyme dropped into the relation zone of Perry Street Division One when they were beaten 4-0 by Forton Rangers, whilst Charmouth booked a place in the semi-final of the Kenny Hodges Cup with a 2-1 victory over Netherbury Reserves, their goals coming from Kieran Bearpark and top scorer Dan Rendell. Tomorrow (Saturday, March 24) Lyme Regis 1st team welcome Wellington Reserves to the Davey Fort, whilst Lyme Reserves are away to Division Five mid-tablers Central. Lyme Rovers are at home to Merriott Dynamos in the semi-final of the
Lyme Regis FC current Silver Ball standings for top scorer Peter Peacock and Steve Batey - both 15 Julien Simier - 13 Fred Parsons - 12 Declan Ellis - 11 Jake Bearpark and Brad Rowe - both 6 Mark James Batey and Harvey Brimicombe - both 5
NEW signing Joe Urquart impressed manager Mark Bailey (pictured below) in his first game for the Seasiders. Inset, Rob Fellingham Photos by Sid Hansford
the manager’s verdict... ■
IT WAS a great perfo mance from Lyme against a Chard side bolstered by a number of first team regulars. Lyme had much the better of the first half and took the lead through a goal as good as any you will see at local football involving eight players and onetouch passing,culminating in Fred Parsons side footing home from 10 yards. Chard equalised with a mis-hit cross which looped over keeper Chris Higgs on 35 minutes. Chard came more into the game in the second half and there were chances both ends. We went 2-1 down when Dom Rowe let a ball roll under his foot and the striker cooly slotted home in aone-on-one with Higgsy. Lyme then pressed for an equaliser and got it from a 25yard rocket from Fred Parsons. Lyme pushed and pushed for a winner and had a goal disallowed for offside. Joe Urquhart on debut was good but whole team deserve credit! Mark Bailey
Tie at the top after 16 holes GOLF: LAST week the new bunkers were in play at Lyme Regis Golf Club, so in the Winter League on the 16-hole layout there was a tie at the top as George Skellern and Phil Webb were equal on 33 points, both one better than par. Both are playing some excellent golf, mastering the different and tricky conditions. By just a point on a better second half, Skellern earned top spot to win the competion while for the fourth week running Webb was up there with the winners. Denis McCallum gritted his way to a level par 32 points to take third spot. The ladies’ coffee morning and craft fair was a big success as they raised more than £500 for the Ladies captain’s charity – the Fortuneswell Cancer Trust in Dorchester.
Bill Bailey Cup. In Perry Street Division One Uplyme, fighting off relegation, have a tough fixture at home to second placed Ilminster Colts. Charmouth will be bidding for a place in the final of the Kenny Hodges Cup at home to Forton Rangers.
running
Entries being accepted for Poppy Run THE Lyme Regis branch of the Royal British Legion are staging the third annual Poppy Run on Saturday, June 30. The event is being staged to celebrate Armed Forces Day and all funds raised will go to the Earl Haig Poppy Fund. There will two races - a 3km race and a 10km race starting at 11am and 11.15am respectively from the new steps on
the East Cliff walkway. The 3km run is to the Gin Shop on the Cobb and back, while the 10km will take a longer route around the town. All competitors need to register at Lyme Regis Football Club, which is hosting the event, by 10.15 on the day. Entrance fee for the 3km is £5 (unaccompanied minimum age 10 years old) and for the
10km £10 (minimum age 16 years old). There will be family events at the football club, including bouncy castle, face painting and a sponsored walk to help boost funds. All those wishing to enter either the 3km or 10km runs, or help out with marshalling the courses, look for the Poppy Run event on Facebook.
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LymeOnline Sport
24 Friday, March 23 2018
March 23 2018
Golfers bid to break quickest round record
125 years of golf in Lyme
Lyme club to stage first national championship in 125th anniversary year PHILIP EVANS
philip@lyme-online.co.uk
CAPTAIN Lee Caddy pictured with some of his closest friends when he became captain of Lyme Regis Golf Club in its 125th anniversary year
Royal British Legion Poppy Run Saturday, June 30 2018
3km and 10 km races
starting at 11am and 11.15am from steps on East Cliff walkway All competitors to report to Lyme Regis Football Club by 10am Entry fees: 3km (unaccompanied minimum age 10) - £5 10 km (minimum age 16) - £10 To enter go to the Poppy Run event on Facebook There will be family events at the football club including bouncy castle, face painting, sponsored walk and more!
LYME Regis Golf Club, celebrating its 125th anniversary this year, will mark the occasion with three major events and hopefully end up in the Guinness Book of Records. The golf club was founded in 1893 and members are pulling out all the stops to make it a year to remember. Not only will Lyme Regis Golf Club host their first national championships - the English Girls Under 16s in August - and stage the Dorset County championship in May, but an attempt will also be made on the fastest ever round of golf. The current Guinness Book of Records’ fastest time is an incredibly quick 13 minutes, 42 seconds, held by Farnham Golf Club in Surrey, with 80 players, but the Lyme club believe they are capable of beating that, especially as they acheived a time of around 12 minutes when they had an unofficial tilt at the title several years ago. The idea is that the course is
GOLF Club captain Lee Caddy is pictured with doyan Lyme golf Lindley Baker, who at 97 yearsold is thought to be the oldest regular player in the UK
lined with as many players as possible. As soon as the ball comes to rest the nearest player takes the next shot until all 18 holes are completed. The Lyme club has 350 members and it has ben decided by club president John Owen (pictured inset) and captain Lee Caddy to stage a week of celebrations from Sunday, July 8 to Saturday, July 14. The week will start with the 125 Year Medal competion and other events will include the Seniors’ Invitation (Monday, July 9), Mixed Invitation (Tuesday, July 10), Men’s Invitation (Wednesday, July 11),and the Ladies Invitation (Thursday, July 12). The world record attempt, which will be attended by the Mayor of Lyme Regis, Councillor Michaela Ellis, will take place on Friday, July 13 followed by a barbecue. The week will come to a close on saturday, July 14 with a Club Day followed by a celebration dinner in the evening.
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Come on you Seasiders! Support your local team
Enjoy a drink in the bar after every game at the Davey Fort
sports shorts Reserves miss out on final after penalty shoot-out
FOOTBALL: BIDDING for their first ever Dorset Intermediate Cup final place, Lyme Regis Reserves suffered the disappointment of losing on penalties at Wareham Reserves. The Seasiders have won the Intermediate Cup on nine occasions in the past but when they moved into Senior football in the Devon & Exeter League the club’s participation in this competition reverted to the Reserve team. Lyme took the lead though Mark Batey but the Dorset Division One side fought back and at full time the score was all square at 1-1. Both sides scored in extra-time – the Lyme equaliser coming coming from Sam Beviss with the last kick of the game – so the semi-final was decided on penalties. The Lyme keeper, Will Meech, saved the first Wareham penalty, but Beviss, Sam Pollard-Jones and Ali Rattenbury failed to convert their spot-kicks to send the home team though to the final. A place in the final would have been a fitting reward for the Reserves’ long-serving manager Gerard Hitchcock, who is also steering his side towards possible promotion from Devon & Exeter Division Five.
New bunkers GOLF: LAST week the new bunkers were in play at Lyme Regis Golf Club, so in the Winter League on the 16-hole layout there was a tie at the top as George Skellern and Phil Webb were equal on 33 points, both one better than par. Full story on page 23
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