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NAME THE BUTCHE TO WIN £50 R OF BANGERS! SE E PAGE 2
Pubs need more guidance on how to safely reopen PUBLICANS in the Lyme Regis area are considering how and when they may be able to reopen their premises with the easing of lockdown measures announced this week. But more clarity is needed before they return to business. Prime Minister Boris Johnson has said that some hospitality outlets will be able to operate again from July 1 but with social distancing being strictly observed. This could well lead to pubs with outdoor amenities, such as beer gardens, being able to cater for a limited number of customers. REPORT, PAGE 3
Local artist says thank you to NHS THE Deputy Mayor of Lyme Regis, Councillor Stan Williams (left) celebrates the 75th anniversary of VE Day with his daughter Anita and her partner Paul Oatway at their home in Uplyme. See pages 10 and 11 for more photos of the celebrations, and on page 12 Councillor Williams and other local resident share memories of wartime and VE Day 1945 Photo by Richard Beviss
Are we under threat? FEARS EXPRESSED AS LOCKDOWN MEASURES RELAXED
THIS week’s easing of lockdown restrictions has sparked fears among some Lyme Regis residents that the town will be “inundated” with visitors. The South West currently has the
FRANCESCA EVANS
francesca@lyme-online.co.uk lowest number of coronavirus cases and COVID-19 related deaths compared to any other region in the country, but some fear we could see a spike in the figures after the Prime Minister announced that
travelling for exercise and to outdoor spaces was now permitted. The public can now travel as far as they like to enjoy unlimited time outdoors with their own household or one person from another household, as long as the two-metre social distancing rule is maintained and they do not stay the night away
from their primary residence. Many have expressed concerns that the easing of restrictions will result in busy beauty spots and beaches across the South West, with some having already complained that Lyme was “packed”
CONTINUED ON PAGE 2
TALENTED Lyme Regis artist David Manners is paying his own tribute to for frontline NHS nurses by painting their portraits. David is one of many artists up and down the country who are painting portraits of NHS workers as the art community’s way of saying thank you in an initiative known as #portraitsfornhsheroes. His first NHS portrait is of a student he helped to qualify for nursing college by giving her maths tuition. REPORT, 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 Richard Austin edit@lyme-online.co.uk Regular Columnists: Sophia Moseley, Marine Theatre Peter Lacey, Tales of Lyme’s Past Production: Jackie Evans jackie@lyme-online.co.uk
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Lyme artist painting portraits of frontline NHS nurses as a way of saying thank you TALENTED Lyme Regis artist David Manners is paying his own tribute to for frontline NHS nurses by painting their portraits. Former schoolteacher David concentrates on the human form and maritime themes and his portraits are in huge demand with galleries in the United States and Mexico displaying his works. In recent times he has painted portraits of former American President Barrack Obama and his wife Michelle, singer Gary Barlow and celebrity chef Nadiya Hussain and her husband. Many artists up and down the country are painting portraits of NHS workers as the art community’s way of saying thank you in an initiative known as #portraitsfornhsheroes. “It’s wonderful being able to paint their portraits,” said David. “One of the first ones I have done was of a young nurse’s first day as a nurse in ICU at the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital, who I had helped to pass her mathematics exam to qualify. “None of the artists participating pay a penny but the nurses get their portrait as a gift. The first nurse I painted said it would be a lasting memento of her harrowing first day as a nurse in the renal unit.” The nurse, who has asked not to be named, started studying in 2017, the first cohort of the Exeter School of Nursing (Plymouth University) with various nursing placements in East Devon. “I was due to qualify in July 2020 but then the pandemic hit and it was decided that the thirdyear students would be appointed to assist with the frontline in supportive role in the NHS,” she said. “Personally, the experience has been of mixed emotions. I did not intend for my nursing career to start with a pandemic experience, however, having said that I could not be any prouder about joining any earlier. It has been an honour to support fellow colleagues through this diffi-
cult time and I have grown in confidence and resilience to strive in my chosen career. “One of the moments I will always treasure was reuniting a patient home after a strong battle with COVID-19. We all united in clapping for the occasion. It was incredibly emotional but a very proud moment.” David was born and brought up in Lyme Regis and attended the Woodroffe School where his father, Brian, taught music. After graduating in music and mathematics, he retired after 26 years teaching at Woodroffe and, after a long period of illness, he took up painting after a break of 35 years. His unique style was quickly recognised in art circles around the world and his works in oil on canvas, especially his portraits, have won universal acclaim.
Name the butcher to win £50 of bangers!
LYME Regis Butchers has launched a competition to name their newest member of ‘staff’ (pictured above) for a chance to win 5kg of sausages. You could be taking home £50 worth of the butchers’ award-winning bangers if you’re name is picked as the favourite. To enter simply enter your name and suggestion in the form at lymeregisbutchers.co.uk/competition. A winner will be selected at the end of May. See advertisement for Lyme Regis Butchers on pages 8 & 9.
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Pubs need more clarity before reopening PHILIP EVANS
philip@lyme-online.co.uk PUBLICANS in the Lyme Regis area are considering how and when they may be able to reopen their premises with the easing of lockdown measures announced this week. But more clarity is needed before they return to business. Prime Minister Boris Johnson has said that some hospitality outlets will be able to operate again after July 1 but with social distancing being strictly observed. This could well lead to pubs with outdoor amenities, such as beer gardens, being able to cater for a limited number of customers. Licensed premises in Lyme, Uplyme and Charmouth with outdoor facilities include the Pilot Boat, Harbour Inn, Royal Standard, SWIM and Nag’s Head in Lyme, the Talbot Arms in Uplyme and The George at Charmouth. It may be more difficult for the smaller establishments, such as the Volunteer Inn and Ship Inn, to introduce acceptable social distancing. The biggest pub and restaurant in Lyme Regis is the Pilot Boat Inn, owned by Palmers Brewery but run by the Collyns family. It has a large bar and restaurant and an outside terrace with around 180 covers in total. Robin Collyns, who runs the business with his wife Angela and son Ben, says they will try to open as soon as possible but they need more clarity from the government on what they can and can’t do. He told LymeOnline: “We are in a strong position to reopen with social distancing being observed. It would mean taking out half the tables and not serving drinks from the bar. People will enter the bar through the front door and leave via the terraced area. “The most important factor is that we can provide a very safe environment for our staff and customers and we look forward to welcoming them back to the Pilot Boat.” Mr Collyns added that his business had received no funding but was receiving excellent
CONTINUING our series commemorating the anniversaries of the deaths of all Lyme Regis men who died during the Second World War, we remember Kenneth Theodore Briggs, originally from Derbyshire. With thanks to Vernon Rattenbury of the Royal British Legion for the research.
KENNETH THEODORE BRIGGS
Midshipman, Royal Naval Reserve Born 1921 in Shardlow, Derbyshire, and died May 14 1940 aboard HMS Wivern
THE Collyns family - Robin, Angela and son Ben - are hoping to reopen the Pilot Boat Inn as soon as possible, but have called for more guidance from the government support from Palmers Brewery. But he warned the reduced operation could have a great impact on the profitability of the business, adding that it could be Easter 2021 before normal trading conditions returned. The Pilot Boat is trialling a pizza takeaway service between 12noon and 6pm on Saturday and Sunday. Mother and son team Sue Steward and Mark Oldfield who own The Harbour Inn at the Cobb are also considering opening as soon as is possible. They are looking at the viability of reducing the number of restaurant tables and limiting diners to a specific time slot as well as making full use of their veranda and outside seating area with social distancing being observed at all times. Becky O’Donnell, who owns the popular freehouse Volunteer Inn in Broad Street, a pub that trades heavily on its friendly atmosphere, be-
lieves it will be difficult for compact pubs like her own to adhere to the social distancing regulations. But she is hoping they can find a way to start trading as soon as possible. The Volly already operates of pub grub takeaway service between 5pm and 8.30pm on a Friday and Saturday which is proving extremely popular. Also being well supported is he take-away service are the Talbot Arms in Uplyme and they are planning a special hog roast bap night planned for Wednesday, May 20 in additional to their weekly menu. The Millside Restaurant has also started takeaway fish and chips and roast dinners. The new-look Rock Point Inn, which has just undergone major refurbishment having been bought by St Austell Brewery, was due to open in April but an update has not yet been given on when the business will start trading.
The destroyer, HMS Wivern operated in the North Sea during 1939 and into 1940. She was damaged by an enemy air attack whilst taking part in Operation Ordnance, the evacuation of the Hook of Holland. It was during this action that Kenneth was killed. Son of Charles and Edith Okell Briggs, of Lyme Regis, he was buried at sea and is commemorated on the Portsmouth Naval Memorial, panel 44, column 1, the St Marys War Memorial, Queniborough, Leicestershire and also on the Lyme Regis war memorials in the parish church and in the town.
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PHOTOS OF THE WEEK 4 Friday, May 15 2020
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VIEWS OF LYME REGIS TO KEEP YOUR SPIRITS HIGH!
A PASTEL sky over the Cobb in Lyme Regis, captured by Melissa Hutchings
THE changeable weather captured in Charmouth by Jodie Jackson
A STUNNING sunrise shot taken from Marine Parade by Nigel Ball
LYME’S award-winning photographer Richard Austin’s shot of the colourful beach huts
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A FIERY sky ober houses in Lyme Regis, taken by John Turner
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ASK THE MAYOR: Your questions answered
We have expressed this concern to Dorset Council and our local MP. We're also looking to determine what measures will be brought in to support the government's declaration on their easing towards open spaces. We're not alone in this; there are many small town beaches in Devon and Cornwall that will have the same problem. We will continue to press our concerns for this and other issues surrounding the practical application of government announcements.
With all meetings of Lyme Regis Town Council being suspended due to coronavirus, the Mayor, Councillor Brian Larcombe MBE, has agreed to answer questions that we will put to him on your behalf and we will then publish his responses in all issues of LymeOnline during the crisis. Send in your questions for our next issue by emailing edit@lyme-online.co.uk with the subject ‘Ask The Mayor’ ● I READ in the national press that York is considering running a one way system in their narrow streets. We too have narrow streets around the Cobb. Has the council given any thoughts to how people might move along the promenade, Cart Road and past the huts? We are naturally concerned about traffic congestion and Lyme’s narrow streets do present traffic flow problems, particularly in the summer: it’s a problem that has occupied council’s minds for decades as the volume and size of vehicles increases while the width of our roads can not. However, with regard to the more specific thought being offered in the reader’s question regarding the Cart Road and its part in a Cobb one-way system: firstly as the name implies the Cart Road was originally for carts and secondly wasn’t a complete road from Cobb Gate to the Cobb - it used to end halfway along with a slope on to the beach, which covered at high tide. The promenade as referred to, is I would suggest, as the term implies, really for pedestrians. And finally, I personally think the idea that the area in front of the beach huts which is essentially as pedestrian way should have vehicles driving along it is not appropriate or feasible and would change the whole nature
of a seafront that is one of Lyme's best features and sets our town aside from many others. ● WE own an apartment in Broad Street and normally divide our time between our home in North Dorset and Lyme Regis. Under the current lockdown we have been following advice to stay away from second homes. We clearly can’t use local facilities and no waste requires collection. Will Lyme Regis Town Council be considering a council tax rebate for owners who have been asked to stay away? Lyme Regis Town Council is not the council authority which collects or is responsible for your household waste collection, and does not charge for its removal. Dorset Council sets your Council Tax and the part the cost of waste collection contributes to it - as shown in the breakdown they provided in their billing announcement at the start of the Council Tax year. You should correspond with Dorset Council. ● WITH the relaxing of lockdown measures expected to encourage many more people coming to Lyme, what will the town council be doing to stop unacceptable levels of people using the beach, etc? Any easing of restrictions will bring with it in-
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Lifeboat crew ‘log on’… twice creasing numbers of people looking to walk our seafront and beaches - particularly following the government’s announcement this week that people can now drive to parks and beaches, etc. and in our case Lyme’s tiny sandy patch. There is a world of difference between restriction easing being applied to this very small area and the vast beaches of the likes of Woolacombe and Croyde, Watergate and Fistral, Weymouth and Chesil beaches, to name but a few. Even on a modest day our patch of sand gets significantly over-crowded and it will be almost impossible to respect the minimum two metre social-distancing stipulated by government, while other larger beaches will be able to accommodate it more easily.
LYME Regis lifeboat crew answered two calls on Bank Holiday Friday, following reports of a kayak in difficulty and an unspecified object in the water. In both cases – near Charmouth and off Axmouth – the items turned out to be tree logs. Both logs were retrieved by the lifeboat crew, one taken on board and the larger one towed back to Lyme Regis harbour. The volunteer crew launched at 11am and returned to harbour at 12.30pm. A lifeboat spokesman said: “In both cases it was better to be safe than sorry after the reports were received.”
Digger stolen and dumped A JCB belonging to Lyme Regis groundworks company Martin’s Excavation was stolen on Wednesday night and found dumped in Cannington Lane, Uplyme. The JCB 3CX digger was stolen from a field off Sidmouth Road and police are appealing for anyone who may have any information. Call 101.
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6 Friday, May 5 2020
LYME MATTERS with Philip Evans Essential reading for all those with Lyme at heart
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My lockdown daily diary Captain Tom an inspiration to the whole country My Isolation Diary – Day 43 (Thursday, April 30)
THERE has been little to celebrate these past few weeks but today the whole country is able to forget our woes and celebrate the awe-inspiring example set by Captain Tom Moore. Or do we now refer to him as Colonel Moore? After receiving wonderful care in hospital after he fell and broke a hip, old soldier Tom Moore decided to would try to raise £1,000 for the NHS in return for the kindness shown to him by the doctors and nurses. To do so he intended to walk up and down his garden path 100 times before his 100th birthday today. Well, you know the rest of it… Captain Tom has raised an incredible £30 million as his inspiring efforts have won the hearts of people all over the world. He has received 135,000 cards of congratulations and has become the oldest person to have a number one record after the recording of ‘You’ll Never Walk Alone’ with singer Michael Ball, a fly-past by a couple of Spitfires and been appointed an Honorary Colonel of the Army Foundation College which had to be approved by the monarch. The college in Harrogate trains 16 and 17-yearold soldiers and he will be an inspirational role model to generations of soldier I doubt whether the Queen has been more pleased to send a card to a more admired centenarian and nearly one million people have signed an online petition calling for Captain Tom to be Knighted. Captain Tom has also been presented with his Second World War Defence Medal ahead of next week’s VE Day celebrations. It’s not only this Old Soldier’s determination to complete his walk but the manner in which he has captured the spirit of the nation by the clarity and inspiring replies in the dozens of interviews he has faced from those clamouring to speak to
I’M into my seventh week of self-isolation and after an early morning walk, my permitted exercise of the day, I’m writing an Isolation Diary which you can find in the blogs section of our website. Here’s a few of the latest entries... him. He seems totally unfazed by the strength of the admiration he has received and never forgets to thank those who have been so kind. He comes from a generation when good manners were paramount at all times and there’s so much we can learn from him in trying to come to terms with the difficult times we are experiencing.
Perhaps our Ministers should show more humility My Isolation Diary – Day 44 (Friday, May 1)
BACK in March the government was achieving 10,000 COVID-19 tests a day, woefully short of what was required and lagging well behind other European countries fighting the contagion. It emerged that the UK did not have the laboratory facilities to match the demand, unlike Germany for example who were quick off the mark and whose extensive testing programme has seen far less people die from the disease. At the early Downing Street briefing Prime Minister Boris Johnson recognised that the testing was one of the keys to beating coronavirus, along with finding a vaccine, and that they were ramping up the number of tests being carried out. He even went as far to say he wanted to see it reach 250,000 a day. I would imagine Health Minister Matt Hancock must have spat out his afternoon tea when he heard that figure. Hancock later announced that he had set a target of reaching 100,000 tests a day by the end of April and since then has been
savagely ridiculed by the press. Today it is expected that Hancock has reached that figure on which some of our commentators had poured scorn. But when he skipped into Downing Street early this morning, he answered calls from the gathering press corps with a wry smile. True to form, as soon as the BBC newshounds announced, somewhat reluctantly it seemed, that it was likely the target had been met, they then switched tack and said the 100,000 target was no more than “a red herring” and the important thing going forward was how testing would pan out in the future. It just goes to show as far as the BBC is concerned, this government can do no right. They trot out critics of how the government has handled this crisis in an increasing number, often from the NHS, but how much effort do they put in to balancing that with those who recognizes and is thankful that there have been some successes. Nobody is pretending that the government has not made any mistakes and those mistakes may have tragically led to more deaths. But no government, of whatever political persuasion, would emerge from this crisis with a clean sheet because those making the big decisions are human. We all make bad judgement and mistakes. Perhaps the government’s key players could have shown a little more humility and admitted that mistakes have been made, as Macron did in France.
Is it too much to ask over 70s to isolate for longer? My Isolation Diary – Day 47 (Monday, May 4)
THIS week – especially those of us in the “extremely vulnerable” category – will hear what the “new normal” will be like as Boris prepares to unveil his roadmap of how we will freed from coronavirus lockdown. It has been made perfectly clear that those over
Has Boris opened the floodgates? My Isolation Diary – Day 51 (Friday, May 8)
HAVING past the 50th day of isolation during which time I have written more than 50,000 words on coronavirus and how Lyme is coping, I have self-imposed a restriction on the number of news bulletins I am watching and to which I am listening. When I started this blog I was intending to watch as much news coverage as I could, nothing unusual for me, but it’s got to the stage when the continual flow doom and gloom to service today’s 24-hour rolling news is starting to challenge my sanity. But old habits die hard; I’ve always been a news freak. For many years I have woken up to the Today programme on Radio Four going back to the wonderful Brian Redhead’s day. Can’t stand it now. I catch the early breakfast TV news and the lunchtime bulletin and when it comes to the daily briefing by the PM or a government minster, I now turn off before the journalists’ question time. I have written several times in this diary that whilst I am fully in favour of those who run the country being held accountable for their actions, especially where lives are concerned, I cannot put up any longer with the aggressive question-
ing from he more pompous broadcast and national press hacks. Neither they, or indeed the government ministers who rarely give the straight answer, come out of these briefings with any credit. My Isolation Diary – Day 52 (Saturday, May 9th 2020)
My Isolation Diary – Day 52 (Saturday, May 9)
OR a brief few hours life seemed good again. A party in the garden bedecked with patriotic flags, lots of sandwiches and a cream team, numerous jugs of Pimm’s - and a good old sing-song. Who could ask for anything more? Hang on minute. But it was just the three of us trying to let our hair down and pretend that life was sweet again. Like many other lockdown families in Lyme, Uplyme and Charmouth, we were determined to mark the 75th anniversary of VE Day in some form or other. Duties were shared between the three of us. Francesca decorated the garden with flags and a huge Union Jack and provided the music; Jackie prepared a lovely tea; and I made the Pimm’s, far too strong as usual. It was just what we wanted. To be honest, it
was just what we needed. Last week was a bit tense to say the least. Due to unprecedented demand, we experienced real problems with the LymeOnline website and our social media platforms. Such is the popularity of this website. It all came right in the end and we were able to forget our troubles after a few glasses of Pimm’s, determine to pay our own modest tribute to those who had put up with so much during the Second World War.
My Isolation Diary – Day 53 (Monday, May 11)
PRIME Minister Boris Johnson’s address to the nation last evening was met with the usual mixture of admiration and incredulity. Bo Jo fans thought it was inspirational; the great welter of those who opinion verges of hatred found it confusing. “Exactly what does staying alert?” mean chorused almost to a man. And within minutes the Twittersphere and Facebook aficionados let rip with their usual vitriol. Boris speech, as usual, was faultless in delivery but perhaps not so in content. His critics pounced on the fact that it would leave many confused about what we can and can’t do, and locally fears were expressed that it would lead to an immediate influx of visitors to Lyme.
70 with underlying health issues might well need to continue isolation for several more months,or possibly until a vaccine is available, as others are allowed to leave their homes and be able to meet up their relatives. Some are saying this will have a severe impact on our mental health and would be discriminatory and unacceptable. Baroness Ross Altmann (me neither), a mere 64 year-old, claims that many over 70s would prefer to go to prison rather than stay confined to home for a few more months. I wouldn’t. If it means that I will be able to see my two granddaughters again in person, then I will do exactly as I’m told. The alternative is too frightening to contemplate. Our generation is fortunate that, thanks to the wonders of technology, we can see our grandkids whenever we like. I admit talking to them on a computer screen is not quite the same and does not compensate for not being able to give them a big hug. My two granddaughters, Ella and Freya, live in London and we have not seen them since Christmas. We do speak to them every Sunday by FaceTime, however. The eldest one, Ella, aged five and a half, wrote to us to thank us for their Easter presents (Jackie, my wife, had made them two summer dresses each and I put together a photo album for them). Letter writing as been one of the casualties of this digital age but I have decided to write a letter to both grandkids regularly during these difficult days. I hope they might keep them and read them when they are older as a reminder of why they couldn’t go to school and meet their friends. My son tells me that Ella has written a letter back to me which I’m excitedly expecting to arrive by post later today. I’ve never been excited by the arrival of an email.
With cases falling stay at home is starting to work My Isolation Diary – Day 48 (Tuesday, May 5)
THERE will be an intense debate this week as Prime Minister Boris Johnson prepares to unveil how we will take the first tentative steps towards relaxing the coronavirus lockdown measure. It’s the biggest challenge a government has faced since the Second World War and Boris cannot afford to get it wrong. He is facing increasing pressure to get Britain back to work but if relaxing measures too quickly causes a second wave of COVID-19 it would be even more severe than the current contagion. Yesterday, the number of deaths in all settings including care homes and hospices had fallen to 288, the lowest daily figure since the end of March. That figure is likely to rise today because of the difficult of getting accurate figures over the weekend. Other European countries are already relaxing their stringent lockdown restrictions in a bid to return life to the “new normal” as it is being described. I think Sir Keir has demonstrated that he has what it takes to be formidable leader of the Opposition. Mindful that all sections of the community have to pull together to get us through this crisis, he has not shied away from criticising the government’s handling of the epidemic, where criticism was justified, but has made it clear the Labour intends to play its part in supporting the huge challenge ahead.
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How can a tourist resort reopen safely?
MORE GUIDANCE NEEDED TO SAVE DORSET’S £1BILLION TOURISM INDUSTRY CONTINUED FROM FRONT PAGE last weekend. There are fears that this will have an effect on the area’s above average elderly population, as well as Lyme’s limited infrastructure, such as doctors’ surgeries, hospitals and grocery shops. Among those to condemn the change to the lockdown rules was Lyme Regis town councillor Cheryl Reynolds, who took to social networking site Facebook to write “we are all doomed”. The announcement has sparked heated debates on social media and caused tensions between residents who would prefer stricter lockdown measures to remain in place for their own safety, local traders who are keen to reopen their businesses, and regular visitors and second home owners who say they have been subjected to abusive comments. Some residents have argued that too much priority is given to promoting the town as a tourist destination and more focus should be put on the needs and safety of local residents, while others have said that the local economy is dependent on visitors and businesses need to start reopening to ensure their survival. The heated debates have seen regular visitors and second-home owners express disappointment in the attitude of some residents, and have warned that their comments could have a negative effect on tourism long-term. One regular visitor commented: “What really breaks my heart is the hatred and venom that has been directed at us. From threatening to throw Molotov cocktails through windows to the remarks that people have always despised us and people rubbing their hands with glee at the losses we and holiday companies are going to make. We thought you were our friends.”
A second-home owner of 21 years sent a message to LymeOnline (full letter below), saying he had always considered the people of Lyme Regis to be “friendly and open”, but now “seemingly people wish to scratch our cars, let down our tyres, throw paint at our front door and, apparently, firebomb us.” He added: “All of which is a little shocking. This terrible virus is impacting all of us in different ways, but it is impacting all of us nonetheless… We are not going to sell up, nor are we going to stop coming to Lyme. We will, however, never view the people of Lyme in quite the same way.” Looking to reopen safely When lockdown restrictions were first imposed in late March, Lyme’s two main holiday letting companies - Lyme Bay Holidays and Toad Hall Cottages, closed and cancelled all bookings for the following weeks. Lyme Bay Holidays is now looking ahead to how it can re-open safely and has written to the town council suggesting a forum be set up for local businesses to discuss how they can begin to reopen while considering the safety of the local community. Managing director Ben Matthews said: “It is clear we will be opening into a different world with many restrictions in place and, as a local business formed of local people, we appreciate fully the community concerns as to the increase in visitors and what this will have on the possible increase on risk of infection.” Local pubs and restaurants are also seeking more clarity on how they will be able to reopen (see page 3). Earlier this week, Dorset Council reported that
LymeOnline Letters
the county’s tourism industry is valued at an estimated £1billion a year. It said that two business surveys, run by the Visit Dorset team and Dorset Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP), had highlighted that recovery from COVID-19 would require not just financial support, but more advice and guidance on how to operate safely. Dorset Local LEP board member, and Dorset Tourism Association chairman, Richard Smith, added: “It’s clear from the evidence being collected across the county that Dorset’s tourism businesses need to find way to reopen as soon as possible. If tourism is to remain restricted, the sector will need additional support to protect jobs, especially over the winter. “We are drawing up guidance about how we can do so as safely as possible. A key focus will be to create an environment where businesses unsure about their future, start to feel increased confidence, and we would value input from the Government, as soon as possible, about what the national standards for safe working will be.” Cllr Gary Suttle, Dorset Council’s portfolio holder for Economic Growth and Skills, and member of the Dorset LEP board, added: “We are reviewing the ever-evolving direction from central government and are working on how the ease of lockdown will effect Dorset’s business community. We are working closely with partner agencies and groups to ensure our support has a consistent message. “We are also working hard on how we best support local business through what will be a challenging recovery period and understanding the longer-term impact on Dorset’s economy. The council is committed to evolving our strategy, frequently engaging with local businesses and ensuring that local communities and businesses
are at the heart of our decision making.” Following the Prime Minister’s announcement on Sunday, the leader of Dorset Council asked those considering visiting to “think twice” before travelling to the area. The council has decided that, at this early stage, car parks at visitor destinations including beaches and country parks across Dorset will stay closed for the time being. Public toilets will also remain closed due to the difficulty for social distancing to be maintained at these facilities. Some council-run car parks in town and village centres have remained open through the COVID-19 outbreak for local residents. These will continue to remain open but parking charges will now be reintroduced. Lyme Regis harbour has reopened for some boating activity, but not overnight moorings, visiting vessels or passenger carrying vessels such as charter boats (see page 13). Dorset Council leader Councillor Spencer Flower said: “Our overriding priority is the safety and wellbeing of Dorset residents. We want to discourage people from outside the county and from areas with a higher rate of infection than Dorset from visiting our beaches and beauty spots, and inadvertently spreading the virus to local people. “We are working closely with our partners including Dorset Police to monitor and review the situation. We will adapt our approach when the situation changes. “People who may be thinking of visiting Dorset from elsewhere in the country need to ask themselves, is this safe? Is this fair? We really look forward to welcome visitors back to our beautiful county in future, but it’s too early to take the risk right now.”
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Send your letters to francesca@lyme-online.co.uk
■ WE are second home-owners in Lyme, since 1999. Our children ‘grew up’ in Lyme, consider it their summer home and now, at 20 and 22, visit with their friends, introducing even more people to this magical spot. Sadly, we have been unable to visit since early February. Clearly we are in the fortunate position to own a second home but are not quite in the Getty/Rothschild category, our property barely reaching six figures 21 years ago. We have since spent a good deal of money expanding it, and improving it for future owners, always with local tradesmen. Indeed, we are currently decorating the house using a local scaffolder and a local decorator. We pay full council tax, including on our beach hut, employ someone a couple of streets away to look after the place when we are not there, pay the local providers for gas, water and electricity and have never let it out – we did not buy it to make money. Whenever we visit we are effectively on holiday, thus eat out twice per day, most days, at Lyme-based pubs and restaurants. We spend money in local shops and support local events.
We have always found the people in Lyme, whether they come from Lyme or not (how would we know, why would we care?) to be friendly and open and, being totally honest, have never wondered what these good people thought of us (again, why would we?). Until now. Seemingly people wish to scratch our cars, let down our tyres, throw paint at our front door and, apparently, firebomb us. All of which is a little shocking. This terrible virus is impacting all of us in different ways, but it is impacting all of us nonetheless. My observation is that the pandemic is not really changing us but it is, perhaps, amplifying our existing character and personality. Those of us who are sensitive and caring are simply more so, ditto those who might be unhappy, angry and generally unpleasant. Twenty years ago none of this would have mattered or been noticed. Now we have the power and anonymity of social media. We are not going to sell up, nor are we going to stop coming to Lyme. We will, however, never view the people of Lyme in quite the same way. Name and address supplied
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Lyme Regis celebrates VE Day in lockdown THE country was in lockdown but spirits were high as the nation celebrated the 75th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day, and Lyme Regis was no exception. Patriotic decorations adorned houses and gardens across Lyme Regis, Uplyme and Charmouth as residents prepared to mark the occasion from the safety of their own homes. The chairman of the Lyme Regis branch of the Royal British Legion, Ian Marshall, observed a two-minute’s silence at 11am at the Polish war memorial in Anning Road, where The Last Post and Reveille could be heard being played in the distance. Mr Marshall also laid a poppy wreath and delivered the Exhortation and Kohima Epitaph, which he then repeated at the town war memorial in George’s Square. In the afternoon, residents took to their gardens to hold stay-athome parties and socially-distanced gatherings with their neighbours, while wartime music was played on sound systems across the town. Some also took part in a mass sing-along to Vera Lynn’s ‘We’ll Meet Again’ after watching the Queen address the nation in the evening. The Mayor of Lyme Regis,
THE chairman of the Lyme Regis branch of the Royal British Legion Ian Marshall lays a wreath at the town’s war memorial on Friday morning
Councillor Brian Larcombe MBE, released an optimistic video message to residents, saying that although they could be together due to the coronavirus restrictions, it was still important to give thought to what it meant to come through the war years. Cllr Larcombe said: “Perhaps in its own way, the current virus is a reminder to all of us who didn’t know the world war period just how vulnerable we are and just how small the world can be when such things extend in the way they can do.” Lyme Regis Town Council had planned a weekend of events to mark the anniversary, in partnership with the Royal British Legion and other community organisations, but was forced to cancel due to the current health crisis. It is now hoped events will be held in September instead. In his video, Cllr Larcombe looked ahead to Remembrance Day in November, when he hoped the town would be able to reflect on both VE and VJ Days together. You can watch the mayor’s video message, as well as our own special video of the celebrations in Lyme Regis, Uplyme and Charmouth on the LymeOnline website.
STAFF at Bymead Care Home in Charmouth and, left, Lyme Regis resident Millie Hutchings dressed for the occasion
LIN Paterson enjoys a VE Day tea party at home
PRESIDENT of the Lyme Regis branch of the Royal British Legion, Philip Evans MBE, celebrates with his family
SOCIALLY distanced celebrations in Lym Close
DEPUTY harbourmaster Mike Higgs raises the Union flag at the Cobb
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PAT Stamp and Lorraine Thom from Charmouth enjoy afternoon tea. Below, Lyme Regis residents Colin and Shirley Barker come out to see neighbours
MOTHER and son Alison Taylor and Ryan King, who both work at Bymead Care Home in Charmouth, dressed the part. Above left, former Royal Navy officer Ian Gill enjoys a tea party after raising flags in King’s Way. Left, Nigel and Karen Ball in Talbot Road and, below, Chloe and Libby Budden Flux in North Avenue
FLAGS flying in King’s Way and, below, Coram Avenue resident Tilly played the Last Post and Reveille at the request of neighbour Joe Tresoriere
LOCAL DJ Chris Hutchings created a war bunker scene at his home in Hill Rise Road
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How did Lyme celebrate back in 1945? T
HERE is no record of official celebration in Lyme Regis after Churchill announced on the radio that the war in Europe was over, although the townsfolk were overjoyed and relieved that conflict was at an end.
Local historian Ken Gollop was 10 yearsold when hostilities ceased but he can only remember going down to the Cobb where a beacon was lit on Monmouth Beach to mark the occasion. Others have described an impromptu bonfire, with boats being burnt, and dancing on the seafront. Mr Gollop has an extensive collection of old photos of Lyme, including a number taken during the war, but there are very few, if any, featuring any kind of end-ofwar celebrations. The photograph we reproduce right, showing Broad Street decorated with flags, was taken by Ken’s sister Joan at 9am on VE Day. Former schoolmaster John Wiscombe can remember going down to the seafront, which had been out of bounds during the war, with some friends and throwing some thunder flashes into the shelters. He did not think any street parties were held for children, probably because food was in so short supply. “What we eat for a three-course meal now would constitute a whole week of food coupons then,” he said. Earlier in the war, Mr Wiscombe remembers watching a dog fight over Lyme Bay during the Battle of Britain in 1940. He watched from the golf club remembers being aware of the machine gun fire on his way back down the hill, which was uncomfortably close. He said the Air Rescue Service stationed in Lyme were kept busy retrieving bodies, both British and German, from the seas. Councillor Stan Williams, who lived in Ferndown Road during the war years, has no recollection of any VE Day celebrations. But he has many memories of the American GIs billeted in the town in the run-up
to D-Day. He spoke of the American troops’ kindness to local children, giving them sweets and bubble gum, and always asking: “Do you have an older sister?” “And of course I did!” said Stan. Councillor Williams said the American soldiers “were there one day and gone the next”. Hundreds of American troops, serving
A PHOTO of King George VI arriving at Lyme Regis Golf Club for a low key visit during WWII, featured here in a special newspaper printed for Lyme’s Charter 700 celebrations in 1984
with the 16th Infantry Division, were billeted all over the town with a number of properties being taken over for headquarters and officers, including the Marine Theatre. Many were accommodated in tents on land which is now Anning Road, where many a treat for the kids of Lyme came out of the cookhouse. In February 1940 King George VI played
a flying visit to Lyme amid much secrecy to inspect troops who were billeted at the golf club (pictured below left). General Dwight Eisenhower also visited US troops and shared a meal with them at the old church hall before leaving for the horrors of Omaha Beach where many lost their lives. A plaque in their honour is fixed to the wall of the house at the top of Woodmead Road.
LYME Regis residents celebrate VE Day in May 1945 outside the Volunteer Inn in Broad Street
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Follow advice if heading back on the water FOLLOWING the government’s easing of lockdown restrictions, the RNLI has issued safety advice for those using the water Beach-goers and those using the water should be aware that there are currently no RNLI lifeguards on beaches in the UK. Although volunteer lifeboat crews are fully operational if needed, the RNLI says “this is your watch too”. The public should follow safety advice to protect themselves and loved ones – and help to reduce the demand placed on lifeboat crews and other emergency services. ● Take care near cliffs - know your route and your limitations; ● Have a plan - check the weather forecast and tide times; ● If you fall into the water unexpectedly, Float to Live. Fight your instinct to thrash around, lean back, extend your arms and legs, and float; ● If boating, ensure your equipment is functioning and maintained; ● In any coastal emergency dial 999 or 112 and ask for the coastguard. The RNLI normally patrols over 240 beaches around the coast. But rollout of the normal seasonal lifeguard service was paused at the end of March due to the measures put in place by the government to control the spread of coronavirus. The charity is currently working with local authorities and beach owners in the hope that it can provide a lifeguard service on around 30 per cent of the beaches the charity usually covers this summer.
Re-establishing this infrastructure and distributing equipment to beaches will take time. The charity will also be making sure that conditions are safe for lifeguards to provide an effective service –with its priority remaining the safety of its own staff, volunteers and the public. Some boats have been allowed to start operating from Lyme Regis harbour again as of Wednesday, May 13. Since the lockdown was introduced at the end of May, only commercial fishermen have been able to make use of the harbour and the public have been advised against using the water for leisure and recreational purposes. As of today, leisure vessel movements will be permitted from Lyme Regis harbour for day trips with members of the same household, but no overnight trips are permitted. Commercial vessels may continue to operate subject to the criteria for essential work. Passenger carrying vessels, including charter boats, are considered to be part of the leisure and hospitality section to be considered later in the government’s roadmap to recovery, so these are still not permitted to operate. Private leisure mooring holders who are currently in the water can now use the harbour. Those who require boat lifts to return to the water can book these from Tuesday, May 19. Mooring holders who require the use of the slipway should do this by booking via the harbour office from May 19, all by appointment only. The slipway will open for mooring holders on May 19 by booking via the harbour office but
Bymead residents lift spirits with spring ball
Bymead House Nursing Home in Charmouth recently held a spring ball for all its residents. Both our residents and staff dressed up to the nines for the occasion and danced away the afternoon. The lounge was decorated for the event with balloons, bunting and fairy lights to make it that extra bit special and lift spirits of residents who have been on complete lockdown for weeks. The ball was followed by an elegant afternoon tea with delicious cakes and fancies made by Bymead’s in-house cook. Bymead also joined the rest of the coun-
try in commemorating and celebrating the 75th anniversary of VE Day on Friday, May 8 (see pages 10 and 11). Again, all the staff dressed up as, this time as land girls, soldiers and sailors for an afternoon tea party in the garden. Residents all enjoyed a mojito made by The Dark Bear cocktail company, base din Bridport, and sang along to wartime songs finishing with the National Anthem. All the staff at Bymead House have worked very hard to maintain high standards of care and continue to remain COVID-19 free during this difficult time.
will remain closed to the general public until Saturday, May 23. Vessels should book the use of the slipway via the harbour office. There will be no pontoons installed until further notice. All launched vessels will need to be removed from the harbour on the same day as no overnight moorings will be available. No visiting vessels will be accepted at this stage as most of these are considered to be ‘overnight aways’ which are not approved in the government guidance. Social distancing can also not be achieved for visiting craft. The harbour office and associated facilities will remain closed and requests to see staff should be made by emailing the harbourmaster on harbour@dorsetcouncil.gov.uk or call
01297 442137. If a contractor is required to visit a boat, approval must be given by the harbour office by email in advance. Owners, agents, charterers, marinas, yacht clubs and recreational sailing organisations should ensure that these measures are made known to the masters or persons in charge of their vessels or craft. The above measures, which also apply to West Bay harbour, will be reviewed regularly in line with government guidance. Harbourmaster James Radcliffe said: “Please help us to maintain a safe COVID-19 free environment by applying the government guidance and consider your own, my staff and other harbour users’ safety.”
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Scouts take part in stay at home camp MORE than 50 members of the 1st Lym Valley Scout Group took part in an international stay at home camp, organised by a troop in Northumberland. By joining the event, the group helped break the world record for the largest virtual camp with more than 93,000 Scouts from across the country, and around the world taking part. The Scouts had to build either a den or put up a tent and spend the night in it at home. They also had to pack a bag for a night away, make a campfire, take
part in a Scouting activity and help cook a meal. Members from across the Uplyme-based troop rose to the challenge, making dens, putting up tents, cooking supper and breakfast, and doing badge work. The group continues to run a virtual programme for its members at a time when face-toface Scouting cannot take place, giving the Beavers, Cubs, Scouts and Explorers a chance to catch up, still have an adventure and learn skills for life.
Charmouth Beavers face extinction Local author publishes crime novel UNLESS a new leader can be found before the end of July, the Beaver Colony at the 1st Charmouth Scout Group will close. Kevin Payne, group Scout leader, said: "Closing the colony would be a real shame as we have a really enthusiastic bunch of Beavers who have been working really hard during the lock-down period in response to the weekly challenges they have been set. “Furthermore, the current leader has offered to mentor any new leader for the autumn term and make available all the programmes she has run over the past three years, together with all the necessary contacts. This will make it far simpler for any new leader to get things up and running. “A further advantage is that the current assistant leader will stay on to help, and the rest of the group's leader team will also be on hand to come to meetings. "In the next stage of our survival plan, we have asked all the young members of the group to design and put up a recruitment poster. I have knocked one up on my PC to give them an idea of what it could look like, but I am sure the Beavers, Cubs and Scouts can do a lot better!
LOCAL author Laurence Anholt has released a new crime novel ‘Art of Death’. Over the last 30 years, Laurence has written and occasionally illustrated more than 200 books, mainly for children. These include ‘Stone Girl Bone Girl’ about Mary Anning, and his books about great artists such as ‘Camille and the Sunflowers’. For several years, Laurence and his wife Catherine owned the unique Chimp and Zee Bookshop by the Sea in Broad Street. More recently, Laurence has turned to full length fiction, and ‘Art of Death’ is the first in his Mindful Detective series, featuring a Buddhist cop who lives in a cabin on the Undercliff in Lyme Regis. The series has already been translated into several languages and TV/film option has been acquired by World Productions, creators of ‘Line of Duty’, ‘Bodyguard’, ‘The Durrells’ and many other classic British programmes. ‘Art of Death’ is available at Amazon and all good bookshops in hardback, paperback, Kindle and also as a hilarious eight-hour audiobook, narrated by Laurence’s daughter, actress Maddy Anholt. "Any adult can be a Beaver leader, they just have to be over 18 - so there is scope for an older teenager looking to do a bit of volunteering and improve their CV, or an active grandparent who loves working with young people. "We all hope our colony won't be facing extinction at the end of July, so I invite anyone who wants to know more about what's involved to contact me.” You can contact Kevin by calling 07976 534 517 or email payne.kevin6@gmail.com
If you have a news story of LymeOnline, call Francesca Evans on 07810 221 420 or email edit@lyme-online.co.uk
And former policeman releases third book LYME Regis resident and retired community police officer Simon Herfet released his third book earlier this month. Having previously written two books about spirituality, Simon’s latest release ‘Six Dancing Dolphins’ is his first novel. It tells the story of a young man who goes on many adventures around the world to find his true self. He visits a famous Indian Avatar and teacher in India, spends time in Tibet with monks high in the Himalayas, then on to a Native American Indian Reservation where he is taken for a spiritual initiation by a medicine man in the mountains of Taos, New Mexico. Finally, he travels to New York where, with his old friend Jim, they hear about Lazlo and his
meeting with an angel who gives him a million dollars. Simon said: “This is a special story about following our intuition and heart, to finally have the courage to follow our dreams. “I spent part of each week day since September last year in the Royal Lion Hotel writing this book, which I have just self-published on Amazon. It starts and ends in Lyme Regis and with a few local people and places mentioned, albeit slightly disguised, though one will be familiar to all I am sure of that!” ‘Six Dancing Dolphins’ can be ordered online at mybook.to/SIXDANCINGDOLPHINS or you can find out more about Simon and his previous releases at simonherfetauthor.wordpress.com/
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when we were young(er) A page of photos from the days when we enjoyed ourselves IN times of national crisis, like the one we are going through now, we often look back to the days when we really enjoyed ourselves, inevitably when we were younger. Here’s your chance to re-live some of those days. Send us your photos of friends and family when you were young - or at least young at heart - having a good time. Email them to us at edit@lyme-online.co.uk and write your own caption - caustic or humorous but no profanities please!
SCHOOL sports day at St Michael’s Primary School in 1958, supervised by teacher Bill Creber. Among those pictured are John James, Derek Quick, Stuart Broom, Michael Cregan and Philip Wiscombe
ONE of the attractions at a fete in Haye House in the 1960s. Among those pictured are Johanna Hopkins (nee Perry) and Corinne Cloud (nee Hopper)
BELOW: Lyme Regis FC Under 15s youth team: back orw - Cecil Wiscombe (chairman), Raymond Turner, Ricky Holt, Raymond Long, Sandy Stuart, Adrian Childs, David Ross. Front row Kerry Habgood, Richard Branwhite, Stuart Broom, Alan Nute, Roger. Lewis
Send us your photos of having fun in happier days
THE annual dinner of Lyme Rergis Town Band in 1956. The Mayor, Alderman King, is pictured next to bandmaster Ernie Wiscombe (far right)
COME ON YOU REDS: Watching the FA Cup Final at the Uplyme home of Alan Beviss (far left) are, from the left, Brendan Cable, Graham Williams, Richard Austin, Feankie Bowen and John Stamp
THE cast of Lyme Rergis Pantomime Society’s production of Dick Whittington at the Marine Theatre in 1957
classifieds&jobs
16 Friday, May 15 2020
PLANTS, cuttings for sale, all very reasonable, on corner of Gore Lane and Cuckoo Lane, Uplyme - 01297 443930. CORDLESS HEDGE TRIMMER, Bosch 41ACCU, without battery or charger, 14.4v, blade length 41cm, £14 - 07947 918 335.
‘BEAUTIFUL HOMELAND’, set of 6 books, first edition, 1920, illustrated in colour, by E.W. Haslehurst, £180 or £35 each - 01297 506707. RYOBI electric sucker/blower, almost new, £30 - 01297 445376. TACK LIFE electric submersible water pump, £25 - 01297 445376. GARDEN GROOM PRO safety hedge cutter, shreds and collects, £30 - 01297 445376. AL-KO petrol mower, £60 - 01297 445376. ASH Hoover, £15 - 01297 445376. CONFIDENCE FITNESS Power Plus Treadmill, £60 - 01297 445376.
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ITEMS FOR SALE
solid wood, offers welcome - 01297 561512. BOOKCASE, veneer rosewood, 94cm length x 90cm width x 28cm depth, buyer collects from Charmouth, offers welcome - 01297 561512. LOCAL BOOK, ‘Branch Line to Lyme Regis, Mitchell & Smith, Middleton Press 1993, in new condition, £12 01297 442627. LOCAL BOOK, ‘Lyme Worthies’ by John Fowles, portraits by Gavin Bird, limited issue of 1,000 copies, beautiful condition, £6 - 01297 442627.
BURBERRY MEN’S MACKINTOSH, full length, burberry beige colour, chest 44”, little used, £30 ono - 01297 444698. ANYA HINDMARCH HANDBAG, genuine leather with protective storage bag, used but in excellent condition, £40 ono - 01297 444698
LOCAL BOOK, ‘A History of Axminster to 1910’, Geoffrey Chapman, 1998, like new and scarce, £15 01297 442627.
YAK BUOYANCY JACKETS, two jackets coloured red and yellow respectively, £10 for the pair or £8 each ono - 01297 444698.
PURPLE RUG, IKEA ‘Stoense’ low pile, 133cm x 195cm, in perfect condition, £15 - 07397 206 365.
GAS COOKER, Stoves 4 ring gas cooker, buyer collects from Lyme Regis, £75 - 01297 445091.
NEST OF 3 TABLES, Queen Ann style, legs
Please note this service is only for private sellers, not for commercial items, tradespeople or vehicles. Please include a brief description of your item, the cost and a telephone number where a buyer may contact you. If you wish to advertise an item over £200 your advertisement will cost 10p per word, please email or phone us to arrange payment. Please also include your name and address, although this will not be published.
WOODEN FUTON BED BASE, without mattress, 4’ 6” wide, buyer collects from Lyme Regis, £30 - 01297 444698.
LADDERS, various sizes and prices - 01297 445376.
VENETIAN BLIND, Marco wooden venetian blind, 180cm width x 160cm depth, basswood natural colour, new and still in box, £20 - 01297 443461.
ITEMS TO SELL?
You can advertise items for sale up to £200 free by filling in the form below or emailing francesca@lyme-online.co.uk
Your name: ....................................................................................................................... Your address: .................................................................................................................. ...........................................................................................................................................
MEN’S SHIRTS, brand new from Marks & Spencer, pure cotton, green checked, XXL, paid £19.50, selling for £12 - 07973 349 717.
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MEN’S SHIRTS, new from Marks & Spencer, 15½ regular fit, ideal Christmas presents, half price - 07973 349 717.
Send this form to: Items For Sale, LymeOnline, Unit 5, Uplyme Business Centre, Uplyme Road, Lyme Regis, Dorset DT7 3LS
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May 15 2020
Friday, May 15 2020 17
NOW IN THE DEVON & EXETER PREMIER LEAGUE
Davey Fort
Clubhouse closed until further notice
Once a Seasider always a Seasider How I fell in love with football - by former Lyme Regis FC captain Stuart Broom
I
Final part of a four-part series
t’s a funny old game! So said my football hero Jimmy Greaves, and he wasn’t wrong.
During these weeks when we have been confined to ‘barracks’ through the lockdown, it has been a great opportunity for me, like many I am sure, to dig out old photos and memorabilia and reminisce on past times. Looking through my scrapbooks I was reminded of things that I probably didn’t take too much notice of at the time. I am sure many of you reading this will have your own favourites but here are some of my own. Favourite ground: South Petherton’s huge expansive, well-manicured pitch was a delight. Sector Lane in Axminster, St Mary’s in Bridport and Zembard Lane in Chard were also great. However, for me, our own old Sidmouth Road ground beats them all. Despite the vagaries of fog and wind that caused problems from time to time, it was big, a lovely flat surface and drained so well we hardly had a game called off because of waterlogging. Best referee: No contest – the late, great Doug Pomeroy. He was miles better than any other ref I ever encountered. Strict, meticulous, scrupulously fair, he controlled the game from start to finish. Whilst I don’t remember him handing any cards out, he was firm from the start. Chewing gum as he did all the time, he would blow and indicate precisely where the offence occurred. Woe betide if you tried to gain even the slightest advantage; he would call you back. You didn’t do it again! He would be a sensation in today’s game. No more diving, time wasting, what a star! Best player: There were several players over the years, but I guess most wouldn’t go further than Merriott’s Barry Bisgrove who had trials with Bristol City, or Andy ‘Dinger’ Bell who played for Haselbury before being signed by Exeter City and then Yeovil Town. Both were exceptionally skilful strikers and caused me many a problem. Defensively, there weren’t many better than Rodney Jones or my brother Robert. Both wing halves, they were quick, good in the air and graceful, and emerged as teenagers in the successful title-winning Seasiders team of the late 1950s. I also had a lot of time for Mike Steed, by far the best of three brothers that played together for Perry Street. Worst ground: There were a few which were like ploughed fields in those days, but Winsham I think was the worst. On a slope from side to side, the grass was always very long; I think they only cut it once at the start of the season; and invariably if it wasn’t raining, it had been! They used a well-worn old leather ball with a lace which became a lump of lead inside five minutes, so kicking and even worse heading the ball, was very difficult and painful.
STUART BROOM, a bustling centre forward, played his first game for Lyme Reserves in 1963 and was a permanent first teamer until hanging up his boots in 1979, having captained the side for 12 years. He scored more than 200 goals in 600 games for the Seasiders and won one Perry Street League cap. Unusual antics: There were a number of comical and unusual thing that occurred from time to time. Two of them involved Ken (Cooey) Hitchcock who usually was the Reserve’s keeper but stepped up when required for the first team. I remember he once deliberately got sent off five minutes from the end when we played at Winsham. Whilst most grounds in the 1960s had at least a hut to change in, although often not a water supply, at others like Winsham, you had to change in a local pub and either drive or walk to the ground. The Bell in the centre of the village was around 300 yards from the pitch, and the changing room was the skittle alley with a tin bath of hot water for washing. It was a typical Winsham day and Cooey was covered from head to foot in mud so decided to get to the bath first. When we got there the water was black!
Lyme’s most bizarre goal!
The other incident was an end-of-season evening game ‘Up Top’, as we knew it, at Sidmouth Road. It was very, very foggy, so bad you could hardly see five yards, but it was decided to go ahead. Cooey was in goal and thought he would steal an advantage. Suddenly out the gloom he raced passed me with the ball tucked up his jumper so as not to handle it outside the area, and on reaching the centre circle released the ball and kicked it up field for Arthur Smith to tuck away - allegedly! As I believe the ref was Doug Pomeroy, it was a good job he wasn’t seen, but he got away with it. My best goal: The one I always remember was our only goal at South Petherton in 1963, in my third game for the senior side. Pethy were a great side and beat us 10-1, but I continued my goal scoring run having netted in both the previous two games. My chance came on 20 minutes when I hit a 30-yard volley into the top left hand corner of the net past the experienced Dave Gard, the pick-of-the league keeper, who at the end of the match purposely sought me out to congratulate me on it. What
a boost that was to a 15-year-old! Biggest disappointment: In my last piece I told you about my anger surrounding the rejection of the Strawberry Fields project due to some dubious decision making by the local authorities. My biggest on-field THE Three Amigos: Robert, Keith and Stuart Broom disappointment was that I played a big part in ruining the career of atrocious weather that day. Keith tells me we beat Beaminster 1-0 and clearly remembers one of the best goalkeepers in the area. Stuart Hobbs was a brilliant keeper and fol- saving a penalty, diving to his left, hence the lowed in the footsteps of his father Bill who state he is in. Idol: Pip Evans (no, not really but he allowed was widely regarded as the best ever number one for Bridport. I was involved in an unfortu- me to write this series!). There are so many nate collision with him whilst playing for the wonderful footballers to inspire you over the Perry Street pick-of-the league side at Glaston- decades, but my idol has always been Jimmy bury in 1971. Greaves. Renowned for his fabulous goal scorChasing down former Bath City striker Andy ing records, he doesn’t get the credit he deCodd, I managed to get my slide tackle in just serves for his skill, which is a shame. Just as the fearless Hobbsy came racing to the edge watch some old footage of him. I met him as of the box and spreading himself. Unfortu- we walked to our cars following a sportsman’s nately my foot caught his knee in the follow dinner at Dorchester Town in 2010 and he was through, an injury that was to plague his career so down to earth. What a lovely man and faband leave him eventually needing a replace- ulous footballer! ment. I always feel guilty when I see him. Sorry Inspirations: Lyme Regis Football Club Stu! and my father Gordon! Dad went everywhere The three Amigos: Here’s a question. I be- with me. Chauffeur, boot cleaner, optimist, lieve that my brothers and I were the first trio pick-me-upper, he inspired me to be the best I of brothers to play together for Lyme 1st team could, and I hope I didn’t let him down. in the same game. Does anybody know differHaving grown up and played with many of ent? I believe there may have been families my friends who like me graduated into the since then, so if you know of any perhaps you football club, it became a second home. The can let me know? support from older players, the encourageBrother Robert was by far the best footballer ment from the spectators (well most of the in our family, whilst my other brother Keith, time!), many of them player’s families, created whilst interested (a big Gunners fan), didn’t such a great atmosphere I didn’t crave for pasplay much and was usually a back-up goal- tures new and never regretted my decision. keeper when needed. ‘Once a Seasider’ what else could As you can see from the above photo taken at I be but ‘always a Seasider!’ Sidmouth Road in the 1966-67 season, it was
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