LymeOnline Digital Edition - September 3 2021

Folk festival returns over bumper Bank Holiday

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Changes afoot at Mariners Hotel

PLANNING permission has been granted to split the historic Mariners Hotel in Lyme Regis into part hotel and part holiday let. Hotel bedrooms will be reduced from 14 to eight, with part of the Grade II listed building converted to provide seven beds for holiday lets.

REPORT, PAGE 8

Lym Tai Chi

A proud day for Stan

A friendly group who meet for gentle exercise of both body and mind New classes in Lyme on Thursday evenings and Friday mornings with registered TCUGB instructor No experience necessary, all welcome Call Ann on 07840 004 014 or email lymtaichi@gmail.com

Artisan Florist

Wild and Seasonal

Daily deliveries, order online or self-serve flower shed at 18 Woodmead Road, Lyme Regis DT7 3AD

VETERAN councillor and former Mayor of Lyme Regis, Stan Williams, was officially made an Honourary Freeman of the Town at a civic ceremony in the Guildhall on Friday, August 20. The Mayor of Lyme Regis, Cllr Brian Larcombe MBE, presented Cllr Williams with his certificate after it was announced in May that he would become a Freeman of the Town. See page 7 for full story.

Photo by Richard Austin

Tough summer in hospitality

Teresa Fowler

35 years experience

Tel: 01297 444743 07721 628 754

NO-SHOWS, STAFF SHORTAGES AND ‘RUDE CUSTOMERS’ BLIGHT SEASON THIS year’s record summer crowds will have come as a welcome boost to Lyme Regis businesses that have struggled through three national lockdowns.

But while restaurants and pubs may have been packed to the rafters, some have said the season has been blighted by customers not showing up after booking and acting aggressively towards hard-working staff.

Many Lyme Regis businesses have been hard hit by a national shortage of hospitality staff, as

FRANCESCA EVANS

francesca@lyme-online.co.uk well as staff having to self-isolate after being contacted by the NHS Track and Trace app, forcing some businesses to take the unprecedented measure of closing down or reducing opening hours during peak season.

Others have lost significant income after turning away customers as they have been fully booked, only for reservations not to show up.

Renowned Lyme Regis restaurateur and chef Mark Hix MBE, from The Oyster & Fish House off Cobb Road, has spoken out about the issues in his latest newsletter.

He wrote about a particularly busy season, adding: “ The only frustrating thing this summer has been the number of no-shows at The Oyster & Fish House.

“We were taking card details for bookings of five or more and deposits for larger tables, but

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

Unit 5 Uplyme Business Park, Uplyme Road, Lyme Regis, Dorset DT7 3LS www.lyme-online.co.uk edit@lyme-online.co.uk Facebook: facebook.com/LymeOnlineUK Twitter: twitter.com/LymeOnlineUK Instagram: instagram.com/lymeonline Editor: Francesca Evans francesca@lyme-online.co.uk 07810 221 420 Managing Director: Philip Evans MBE philip@lyme-online.co.uk Contributors Richard Austin edit@lyme-online.co.uk Production: Jackie Evans jackie@lyme-online.co.uk

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Top chef says he will not COVID costs continue to tolerate aggression towards mount for Dorset Council staff after difficult season CONTINUED FROM FRONT PAGE

sadly we are now at the point where we are having to take card details for every single booking and will charge for no-shows.

“It's not something we wanted to do, and as we are so short staffed there, it's already difficult enough for the team to take bookings when they are in service, but needs must.”

Addressing the poor treatment of his staff, Mr Hix added: “The other sad situation is the amount of rudeness and aggression that the team have had to deal with at The Oyster & Fish House - more often than not around the fact that they cannot physically take any more people through the door.

“My team work very hard, and very long hours so I really don't like hearing that they have been reduced to tears over a lunch booking that we cannot accommodate or someone getting angry that we don't have a particular shellfish on that day - because it hasn't been caught.

“If I am there at the time I will happily tell these people what I think, as I will simply not tolerate such behaviour towards my Hix family. Sadly, as you will have read in the press, it's becoming the norm.

“We get so many compliments on the team all day everyday and thankfully we are talking about a minority here, but it simply shouldn't happen.”

Other restaurants and eateries in

CHEF and restaurateur Mark Hix has spoken out about issues which have blighted the hospitality industry this season the local area have addressed similar issues on social media.

The Town Mill Bakery recently posted about one “unpleasant” incident after they had to turn away a large group as there was not enough space.

They wrote: “Small businesses have taken a bashing over the past 18 months; we’re all short-staffed, struggling to recruit industry-wide and, quite frankly, knackered.

“If we decline a large group it’s not because we don’t like them, as accused, it’s because we are trying our best to manage the flow of orders to the kitchen, barista, front of house and washing up.

“To stand and argue, become rather unpleasant and then create TripAdvisor accounts to add multiple one star reviews in order to try to damage our business is beyond the pale.”

COVID costs are continuing to mount for Dorset Council with additional financial support for some services expected to be required well into next year.

In addition to suffering lost income from items such as car parking and leisure centres the authority is also now having to pick up some of the bills previously met by government grants.

One of these is payments to help patients leaving hospital which has been reduced from six weeks to four and may disappear altogether by the autumn.

Adult social care portfolio holder, Cllr Laura Miller, said the potential loss of government hospital discharge grants could be costly to Dorset. She said that she and others were lobbying the health minister directly and through local MPs to bring about a change of mind.

That service has also clocked up £2.65million of unrecoverable costs in operating the 24/7 referral, brokerage, assessment and care management programme.

Children’s services portfolio holder, Cllr Andrew Parry, said that like adult services costs were also rising, often through ‘bidding wars’ for the limited number of specialist places which were available.

“We have increased demand and reduced capacity which drives up costs,” he said.

A recent Dorset Council cabinet meeting heard that the combined factors lead to a potential big hole in the authority’s finance – of

around £8.25million at the end of the first three months of the financial year, which would have been worse had it not been for a grant income of £8.6million from the government.

On the loss side the council say its leisure centres are £1million down with projections that 80 per cent of pre-Covid clients would return by the end of the year now looking unlikely to be achieved.

Parking incomes are also down – with an adverse forecast of £445,000, although summer tourism may eventually help the budget; planning fee income is expected to now be £743,000 down on projections with waste services down £286,000.

Other, smaller overspends, or reductions in income are predicted across almost every area of council activity.

If the council do nothing the 2022/23 budget gap is predicted to be £8.95million; in 2023/24 £19.2million; 2024/25 £29.14million and by 2025/26 £39.43million.

Portfolio holder for the budget, Cllr Gary Suttle, said that despite the figures he was still fairly optimistic and hopeful that the economy would pick up and there might also be a reduction in the pressure on the social care system.

“Many things may change – our aim is to balance the budget and we will try and do so,” he said.

By Local Democracy Reporter Trevor Bevins

In print and online, the best of Lyme ● Breaking news 24/7 ● Videos and podcasts ● Digital edition pages ● Entertainment news & listings ● All your local sport ● Community news ● Eating out news, reviews and directory ● Blogs on everything from history to environment ● Colourful Photo galleries

Made in Lyme, journalism you can trust

Visit the website lyme-online.co.uk

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COVID-19: The latest on local coronavirus figures

Latest figures put COVID infection rate in Dorset above national average CORONAVIRUS case rates remain high across Dorset and almost returned to peak levels seen in January in the Lyme Regis area earlier this month.

The latest figures released on August 20 show there were 1,376 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the Dorset Council area, an increase on 1,166 reported the previous week, and 1,612 in the Bournemouth, Christchurch & Poole (BCP) area, relatively similar to the previous week’s figure of 1,614.

This means the case rate per 100,000 people was 362.3 in the Dorset Council area, compared to 307.0 the previous week, and 406.1 in the BCP area, compared to 406.6.

This was below the average case rate for the South West but above the national average at the time of 350.

The figures are expected to continue rising following the busy Bank Holiday weekend with the latest numbers set to be released later today (Friday). Visit the LymeOnline website at www.lyme-online.co.uk to stay up to date with the latest figures throughout the week.

As of August 20 there were 44 COVID-19 patients in hospitals across Dorset, compared to 41 in the last update on August 20.

As of 26 August, 1,115,228 doses of the COVID-19 vaccination had been administered in Dorset.

A spokesperson for Public Health Dorset said: “In line with the national picture,

COVID-19 case rates remain high across the county. Case rates in the Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council area have stayed the same this week and Dorset Council’s case rate has increased this week.

“We can see that vaccinations are having a significant impact on preventing serious illness and stopping many people from needing hospital treatment, as hospitalisations remain much lower than at similar points during previous waves.

“Anyone who hasn’t yet had their COVID-19 vaccine can still take up the offer, there are plenty of options available with appointments and walk-in clinics located across the county.”

Find out more about the vaccination programme and how to get your jabs at www.dorsetccg.nhs.uk/vaccinations The South West now has one of the highest COVID infection rates in the UK and some areas of the region were designated an Enhanced Response Area last Friday. This did not include Dorset but did include neighbouring Devon.

This means targeted additional support will be provided in response to the growth of COVID-19 cases in the region, while NHS pressures and the number of cases and deaths will be carefully monitored.

This additional support will be in place for five weeks but does not mean any additional restrictions are being introduced.

Whilst cases remain high, it’s important to continue to consider the risks from COVID-

19, even though restrictions have been eased.

To protect yourself and others: ● Keep testing regularly ● Self-isolate and get a PCR test if you have any symptoms of COVID-19 ● Meet others outdoors wherever possible, or keep indoor spaces well-ventilated ● Wear a face covering in crowded spaces ● Keep washing your hands regularly In the Lyme Regis area, coronavirus cases have decreased in latest figures after almost reaching peak levels seen in mid-January earlier this month. However, the latest figures do not take into account the busy Bank Holiday weekend.

In the seven-day period up until August 27, there were 23 recorded cases in the Lyme Regis, Charmouth & Marshwood Vale area, an decrease of 15 on the previous week.

This means the case rate per 100,000 people is now 318.5 – below the current national average of 355.

The latest figures for surrounding areas were as follows: Uplyme, Kilmington & Colyton – 27 (decrease of 13); Seaton – 24 (decrease of 6); Axminster – 26 (decrease of 14); Burton Bradstock & Chideock – 26 (decrease of 10); Bridport South & West Bay – 16 (decrease of 10); Bridport North – 26 (decrease of 10).

You can find out more details on COVID case numbers in your local area at https://coronavirus.data.gov.uk/

FROM SUNRISE

TO SUNSET

Marine Parade, Lyme Regis, Dorset, DT7 3JH Follow us on social media @swimlyme | 01297 442668 | info@we eswim.co.uk

Rotary Club raise £500 for Haiti earthquake victims THE Rotary Club of Lyme Regis have swung into action to help the victims of the earthquake in Haiti and the subsequent devastating storm.

More than 2,000 people lost their lives with hundreds more missing and over 20,000 made homeless.

Rotarians held a street collection that will help to alleviate the suffering of the survivors.

They would like to thank everyone who kindly donated and, as a result of the generosity, they will be sending £500 to Water Survival Box, a Rotary charity that sends essential items for survival including a pump that turns dirty water into clean, drinking water to disaster zones around the world.

If any member of the public missed the street collection, they can still help by sending a donation by bank transfer to: Rotary Club of Lyme Regis Trust 2 account, sort code 30-9037, account number 39445960, reference 'Haiti'.

Cancer Research committee return with The BIG Breakfast THE Lyme Regis branch of Cancer Research UK will return to its fundraising activities with the popular BIG Breakfast.

The event will be held on Friday, September 24 at the Woodmead Halls from 8am to 1pm.

This will be the third date the committee has arranged for the event, with the previous all having to be cancelled due to the coronavirus pandemic, during which time donations to Cancer Research UK have been severely impacted.

Full English breakfasts with toast and marmalade, tea or coffee and orange juice, or a vegetarian alternative, will be available for £7 and bacon or sausage rolls for £4.

Takeaways and deliveries can also be arranged by calling Philip Evans in advance of the event on 07796 951 991.

4 Friday, September 3 2021

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Latest news from across Dorset Visit lyme-online.co.uk to read the full stories

New machines helping to keep Dorset roads clear of rainwater TWO new machines have been hitting the road this summer to help keep Dorset’s roads clear of rainwater. Dorset Highways has taken ownership of a new gully cart along with a new jetter to support the essential work of its drainage fleet, which forms part of the council’s preventative maintenance programme. Cllr Ray Bryan, portfolio holder for Highways, Travel and Environment, said this was the council’s first step in its commitment to increase its spend on drainage maintenance by £200k a year.

Melplash Agricultural Society hosts hedgelaying taster days TO keep alive the skills and craftsmanship traditionally used in the conservation of hedgerows, the Melplash Agricultural Society will be running a free taster day to introduce those interested in learning the skill of hedgelaying. The session will run from 10am to 3pm on Sunday, September 5 at a location near Bridport to be confirmed, and will be led by a team of local skilled experts and professional hedge layers.

Dorset’s new Chief Constable sets out priorities for future MAKING Dorset a hostile place for criminals and offenders is one of the aims of Dorset’s new Chief Constable Scott Chilton.

Chief Constable Chilton began his role earlier this month following the retirement of former Chief Constable James Vaughan on August 13.

He takes the reins having been Deputy Chief Constable for the Force since October 2020.

Chief Constable Chilton was the only candidate for the £165,000 a year job, which the county’s Police and Crime Panel heard was not an uncommon situation and had been the case for Dorset in the past.

Police and Crime Commissioner David Sidwick said that, despite being the only candidate, he was convinced that Mr Chilton was the right person for the job and had been rigorously tested during the process.

“He is a confident and compassionate man with grip, who has the ability to get things done,” he said.

Mr Chilton, aged 48, takes over the role from James Vaughan who served as Chief Constable since April 2018.

He grew up in West Yorkshire and first joined Hampshire Police in 1992 as a constable in Portsmouth.

His career includes working as part of international policing in Afghanistan between 2009 and 2011 as well as working on police reform across Europe.

Closer to home, he has worked across special branch, counter terrorism, police operations and public contact and strategic partnerships for Hampshire Police.

He rose to the rank of Assistant Chief Constable for Hampshire covering crime, criminal justice and intelligence before joining Dorset Police last year.

Chief Constable Chilton said one of his focusses will be making Dorset a hostile place for criminals and offenders.

He said: “I want to make Dorset as hostile a place as possible for any offender or criminal so our communities are safe and feel safe.

“Dorset remains an area of low crime, which continues to fall, but I want to ensure we are targeting those who wish to cause harm in our communities, while working with partners to solve problems and enhance the life of our residents as a result.

“We have a recently elected Police and Crime Commissioner in David Sidwick and he will soon be publishing his police and crime plan.

“This will drive our own priorities going forward, which will focus on collaboration and working closely with our partners and communities.

“Policing cannot operate in isolation, so those part-

nership links will be critical to managing demand and community confidence.

“Maintaining visibility and listening to our communities are also priorities for me and my teams to ensure we are engaging and making a difference to all of our force area.

“Dorset Police wants to make all of our communities safer, but that requires outstanding people. I take the role of chief constable with a team that has performed incredibly well in the last 18 months in often difficult circumstances and facing very high levels of demand.

“I know I am incredibly proud to become chief constable of a force that has some exceptional community resilience and strong partnership links. We must now focus on how we can make a difference to our rural, urban and coastal communities.

“Our communities should expect and deserve to be safe and feel safe and it is my commitment to ensure Dorset, Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole receive a first-class policing service.”

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Blue badge holders asked Construction surge places for their views on parking pressure on planning DORSET Council wants to hear from resident blue badge holders to help shape a unified approach to parking charges across the county.

Following consultation with all drivers earlier this year on parking charges and parking permits, blue badge holders are now being asked for their views on the best way forward.

THE construction industry has seen a huge surge during the pandemic, but the demand is placing pressure on Dorset Council’s planning services.

Last month planning applications rose in every English region compared to July 2020. This follows a bumper start to the year when February saw a 25 per cent increase in applications.

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ALL OVER THE TOWN

with LymeOnline

editor Francesca Evans

Coping with coronavirus and my cricketing debut

T

HIS column may be named ‘All Over The Town’ but I have been anything but in the last couple of weeks.

As we put the last print edition of the LymeOnline newspaper to bed a fortnight ago, I wasn’t quite feeling myself and it soon became apparent that I had succumbed to the dreaded coronavirus.

I immediately went into self-isolation in my little one-bed flat and did my best to keep the LymeOnline and Axminster Seaton Nub News websites up to date from home, while my parents – who thankfully tested negative – were left with the task of delivering the newspapers around town.

Staying inside and not being able to attend events or meet people is a tough task for a local news editor, especially having just got used to being out and about again at all of Lyme’s summer events, but there were a few acts of kindness that made things easier.

Food parcels, treats and even a few jigsaw parcels arrived at my door, and a couple of friends set up camp in the driveway below my first floor window for a very socially-distanced catch-up and glass of wine one evening when I was struggling with boredom.

My flat overlooks a busy public footpath and, as I worked at my dining table in the window, there were plenty of friendly faces passing by, giving me a wave or asking how I was – sometimes it’s nice to live in a small town where everyone knows your business!

Having recovered and with my allotted isolation time up, ‘freedom day’ finally came on Saturday and I wasted no time in making the most of the weekend, heading out for an early morning walk along the seafront. I don’t think I’ve ever appreciate the view quite so much.

I returned later for Lyme Folk Weekend and then

THE PLACE TO BE:

EVENT YOU CAN’T MISS:

IF YOU READ ONE THING:

THE recently-opened Lilac wine bar has proved to be the hottest new place to hang out, and now we’re over hazy summer days on the seafront, where better to chill out than this stylish cellar bar? Find Lilac at 57-58 Broad Street or visit lilacwine.co.uk

SKA and reggae band Laid Blak return to the Marine Theatre tonight (Friday) with tickets selling out fast for this Bristol-based band, taking influences from dancehall to soul, hip hop, funk and jazz, and their jungle heritage.

Tickets at marinetheatre.com

OVERWHELMED by the climate crisis and wondering how you can possibly make a difference? Belinda Bawden looks at one of the latest reports on climate change, what it means for Lyme Regis and suggests simple ways we can all help on page 18.

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Videos of all major local events ● Topical podcasts on the latest news ● Colourful photo galleries ●

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headed to the football club where the season could finally get underway, having had been postponed the previous week thanks to my positive test result, followed by the Nag’s Head with friends to enjoy some more live music.

The highlight of my fortnight came when I was invited to play at Uplyme & Lyme Regis Cricket Club’s end of season fancy dress fun day. I had never played cricket before and turned up with much trepidation in my Pink Ladies outfit on Sunday afternoon.

Costume or no costume, Dad seemed to find the prospect of me playing cricket hilarious, but he soon quietened down when I somehow caught out club chairman Steve Batey (he was dressed as a melon at the time which may have had something to do with it!).

It was a bit of a comeuppance for Steve, who at just 15 years old brought my Dad’s cricketing ca-

reer to a crushing end, catching him out on 94 and preventing him from scoring what would have been his first and only century. We got him back in the end, Dad! I’ve always been more of a football club girl than into my cricket, but over the last few seasons it has been such a pleasure spending more time at the Uplyme pavilion and watching the boys promoted to the Devon League C Division East for next season. It is a wonderfully welcoming, friendly and good-spirited club, where their recent successes are much deserved. Congratulations!

SUMMER LOVIN: Celebrating the end of season as a Pink Lady from ‘Grease’ at Uplyme & Lyme Regis Cricket Club. See pages 23 & 24 for more photos

The

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6 Friday, September 3 2021

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

www.lyme-online.co.uk

philip@lyme-online.co.uk

Parade information point is a must O

CCASIONALLY we take our LymeOnline promotional stand to local events, not just to distribute more papers but to meet our readers.

It’s always nice to hear what our readers think about the paper and website and their comments are mostly complimentary.

It always amazes me how many visitors follow us online as regular readers of our digital edition. They say they love to keep in touch with all that’s happening in their favourite

Candles On The Cobb is returning next year I AM pleased to see that the Rotary Cub of Lyme Regis, as active as ever, has decided to organise another Candles On The Cobb next year.

Now one of Lyme’s iconic events, which attracts thousands of people to the town, Candles On The Cobb was the brainchild of Phil Street and Mike Higgs who organised the spectacle for several years.

I compered the first few events and was taken with the emotion of the crowd who had bought a candle to remember a loved one.

On one of these occasions, we got all those sitting on the bank in Lister Gardens to turn on the light on their mobile phones just before the two minute’s silence as they watched their candle fluttering in the breeze on the Cobb.

It was extremely moving.

holiday destination.

One visitor who has a holiday home in the town and comes to Lyme several times a year said he looks forward every week to reading about what was happening in Lyme.

Ex-pats also read our digital edition to keep in touch with their hometown.

It’s also amazing that when we are manning our promotional stand how many people come up to us for information about the town and its amenities.

During the most busy weeks - Lifeboat Week and the Regatta and Carnival, town crier and regatta secretary Alan Vian, helped by his wife Lynn, spend a good deal of their time helping visitors with their enquiries as well as their organisational duties.

Lyme no longer has a Tourist Information Centre, much missed by the holiday trade following its closure by Dorset Council, who leased office accommodation in Guildhall Cottage, home of Lyme Regis Town Council.

The town council is now using that space for much needed office accommodation to fall in line with national legislation, especially for the disabled.

Following the closure of the TIC there was some talk about the town council operating an outreach service during the summer months so that information was available on the seafront.

I think it’s time that this proposal was investigated again. The council is not short of a penny and it could be a part-time job in the winter and a full-time position in the summer, supplemented by volunteers at weekends.

Both Francesca and I used to be part of the volunteer team led by Chris Boothroyd. He was the man who virtually single handedly raised £200,000 to equip the Jubilee Pavilion with hi-tech information equipment and also managed the volunteers to man the operation throughout the summer.

Chris was appallingly treated by a previous council and what was a really useful public service petered out. With the TIC closed, that

ONE place you can find limited information on Lyme Regis is the map of the town at the top of the Marine Parade, which also promotes the town council’s new interactive website, The Lyme Regis Discovery Trail service is needed more than ever and I am sure there are a number of volunteers who would offer their services again.

The Jubilee Pavilion is now a glorified storeroom and base for the council’s Marine Parade staff. That’s a terrible waste of public money.

The town council was heavily criticised for not doing more to save the TIC. Here’s an op-

portunity to provide a low-cost information service which all seaside towns should have.

The council has invested heavily in an interactive website and discovery trail to replace the outdated holiday guide.

In doing so, the council should reinvest those savings on manning an information point in the Jubilee Pavilion

‘Aggressive and rude’ diners now the norm

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AS expected with the explosion in staycation holidays, Lyme has experienced one of its most busy summer seasons. Some outlets are reporting a record summer.

But it has not been without its problems.

The hospitality trade has had to deal with a nationwide lack of staff which has caused a number to adjust their hours accordingly and even close on certain days of the week.

Others have been forced to close during peak periods because of COVID-19.

During the first lockdown there were reports that shop staff were having to deal with unacceptable aggressive behaviour from some customers, frustrated by the many rules imposed on them by the epidemic regulations.

Despite the fact that restrictions have

been dramatically reduced as we slowly return to normal, it would seem that such crass behaviour is still very much in evidence.

In his regular blog for customers, Mark Hix has drawn attention to the amount of rudeness and aggression his staff at The Oyster and Fish House in Lister Gardens are having to put up with.

As reported on our front page, Mr Hix writes: “My team work very hard, and very long hours so I really don't like hearing that they have been reduced to tears over a lunch booking that we cannot accommodate or someone getting angry that we don't have a particular shellfish on that day - because it hasn't been caught.

“If I am there at the time, I will happily tell these people what I think, as I will simply not tolerate such behaviour to-

wards my Hix family. Sadly, as you will have read in the press, it's becoming the norm.”

Other hospitality outlets in the town have reported similar incidents.

One would expect that a restaurant like The Oyster and Fish House would attract the type of clientele that would not act in such a way.

Another Lyme business, the extremely popular Town Mill Bakery, also used social media to reveal how their staff had been abused because they did not have enough room to accommodate a large party. They then went on Trip Advisor to give the bakery low approval rates.

Do we put this down to the frustration of being in lockdown for so long, or is it sheer bad manners that seem to be more common as the years pass?

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Stan officially made Honourary Freeman of the Town in civic ceremony at Guildhall

CLLR Stan Williams is presented with the Freedom of the Town certificate by the Mayor of Lyme Regis, Cllr Brian Larcombe MBE Photos by Richard Austin

VETERAN councillor and former Mayor of Lyme Regis, Stan Williams, has been officially made an Honourary Freeman of the Town.

It was announced back in May that Cllr Williams, aged 86, would be made an Honourary Freeman of the Town after more than half a century of service to the community.

The honour, enshrined in a 19th century act, recognises persons of distinction and those who have delivered eminent service.

The presentation of Cllr Williams’ official certificate was delayed due to coronavirus restrictions, but it was handed over at a small civic ceremony in the Guildhall on Friday, August 20.

The Mayor of Lyme Regis, Cllr Brian Larcombe MBE, handed over the framed certificate to Cllr Williams, watched by the civic party and close family.

It is hoped a larger presentation and celebration with family, friends and dignitaries will be held in the coming weeks.

Cllr Williams first joined what was then known as Lyme Regis Borough Council in 1969 and played an instrumental part in the local government reorganisation of 1974. He went on the serve as Mayor of Lyme Regis in the 1990s.

He has also played a significant part in the community outside of the council chamber, including in the develop-

ment of the Woodmead Halls.

Cllr Williams also played for Lyme Regis Football Club, is a member of Lyme Regis Sailing Club and the Royal British Legion among other organisations.

The town council voted unanimously to make Stan an Honorary Freeman of the Town in May. At the time, the mayor commented: ““Stan’s service to Lyme Regis has been truly exceptional and it is a privilege for me as mayor to advocate the Freedom of the Town to a Lyme person; council colleague; former mayor, and someone so deserving of this very special honour.

“Stan has been a councillor since 1969; a remarkable length of service

that represents a substantial personal commitment to Lyme.

“But this award is not simply about duration, it’s importantly about the personal contribution and influence Stan has brought to the council’s actions and decisions, and his work with local groups and societies, all of which has had a real and sustained impact on the town over the decades.

“It represents a lifetime of service devoted to the best interests of Lyme and its residents, both inside and outside the council chamber.”

Only one other person – former town crier Phil Street – currently holds the prestigious title of Honourary Freeman of the Town.

CLLR Stan Williams (centre) pictured with mayor Brian Larcombe, town clerk John Wright and macebearers Paul Oakley and Derek Hallett

LOOKING FOR STAFF? CLLR Stan Williams pictured with daughter Anita Williams, son-in-law Paul Oakley, who is also a macebearer, and sister-in-law Shirley Williams. Below, pictured with the full civic party including town crier Alan Vian

LymeOnline can offer affordable and wide-reaching advertising opportunities to promote your vacancies Job advert spaces of varying sizes, starting from as little as £15, are available in our fortnightly printed newspaper with a distribution of 4,000 around Lyme Regis, Uplyme, Charmouth and Axminster.

Plus you’ll get a free job advert on the LymeOnline website, visited by more than 900 users a day!

Call Francesca on 07810 221 420 or email francesca@lyme-online.co.uk

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Tales From Lyme’s Past

A glimpse of our history with Peter Lacey

Lyme in the 20th Century - Part I PROMPTED by Phillip Evans, this is the first of a series recording the growth of the town as its economy became totally dependent on tourism.

The death of Queen Victoria on January 22 1901 ushered in a time of change for the whole country.

Lyme was not exempt – it began to emerge from being a Victorian resort that catered for the privileged, to one that attracted the affluent middle-class.

The town boasted three first-class hotels, The Alexandra (pictured), The Royal Lion and The Cups, which later became The Three Cups.

In circa 1910 Dunster, the town’s bookseller, published a guide book which advertised Lyme as ‘The Naples of England’.

On offer was freehold building land which had ‘magnificent views of the sea and bay, all with sewered roads and a good water supply’.

The Victoria Hotel adjacent to the newly built railway station claimed to be ‘the only new (1907) and up-to-date hotel in this beautiful town of Lyme Regis’.

In 1903 the Southern Rail branch line from Axminster had opened up the town to day-trippers who were snobbishly described in the correspondence column of a local paper ‘as disreputable persons’.

The long-established paddle steamers were another source of day-trippers and like those who came by rail were of commercial importance to Lyme.

In 1903 the Cobb records show that 23 steamers operating mainly from Weymouth and Exmouth (June-September) landed some 1400-1500 passengers.

Guide books were for the professional and middle-classes who could afford a holiday. It was not until 1938 Pay Act that workers were given one week’s paid holiday. In order to appeal to discerning visitors the guides extolled the ‘many beautiful walks and drives available from our picturesque and charming town’.

They highlighted the coastal geology, the botany, the bathing and the nine-hole golf

course where a day ticket cost 18 pence.

In 1914 a labourer working for the town council was paid a weekly wage (subsistence level of just 4 pence an hour) of 16 shillings for a 48 hour week.

The average yearly wage for a male worker was £70, for a female £30. This was at a time when there were 12 pence to the shilling and 20 shillings to the pound. The lowest denomination of coinage was a farthing, equal to a quarter of a penny.

The town’s official guide was ‘Mate’s Illustrated Lyme Regis’ published in 1902 (pre-railway) and like Dunster’s it cost sixpence. With photographs taken by Lyme photographer F.W. Shephard along with numerous pictorial adverts for hotels and shops it provides an illustrated record of the town and its environs.

An uncongested Broad Street with only horse-drawn forms of transport, an undeveloped Monmouth Beach with moored sailing ships in the Cobb. The guide a real treasure for anyone interested in the town’s history.

The illustration of the Alexandra Hotel accompanying this article clearly depicts the class structure of the time. As did an advertisement for The Royal Lion Hotel which stated that it had a ‘Ladies Drawing Room and a Reading and Smoking Room for Gentlemen’. The words clearly convey the status of its cliental.

Within this series I will trace the gradual expansion of tourism and its social implications at a time when Lyme had long ceased to flourish as a commercial port.

Peter Lacey Local author and historian Peter’s new historical novel ‘Touching the Past’ is now on sale in Herringbone’s of Charmouth, as well as Lyme regis Bookshop. Find out more about the book in LymeOnline’s podcast with Peter at lyme-online.co.uk/category/multimedianews/podcasts/

Permission granted for changes at Lyme’s historic Mariners Hotel

PLANNING permission has been granted to split the historic Mariners Hotel in Lyme Regis into part hotel and part holiday let.

Hotel bedrooms will be reduced from 14 to eight, with part of the building converted to provide seven beds for holiday lets, independent of the hotel.

The Grade II listed hotel was originally built in the 17th century and has been used as a school, doctors office and coaching inn.

The original building has been added to and adapted over the years, and is now described as a “rabbit warren”.

Recognised for its pastel pink exterior, the Mariners was once the home of the Philpot sisters – Elizabeth, Margaret and Louise.

They were known for their pioneering geological discoveries and great friends of Lyme’s most famous fossil hunter, Mary Anning.

Author Beatrix Potter also stayed at the Mariners while on holiday on 1904, two years after she published her most famous work, ‘The Tale of Peter Rabbit’.

While staying in Lyme she worked on an-

other book, ‘The Tale of Little Pig Robinson’, which did not see print until 1930 – her last published work. She also produced a number of sketches of the town, including several drawings of Broad Street.

Now, owners of this historic hotel have said it is “sadly past its heyday” but, among the conditions of the latest planning consent, the new spaces must remain in tourist use.

The changes won the backing of the town council, which recommended that Dorset Council approve the application.

Two public comments raised no objection but suggested that the existing car parking for the hotel, situated opposite on Pound Road, be retained.

Changes to the external appearance of the hotel will be mainly to the rear of the building with the internal alterations not obvious from the outside and not affecting the character of the listed building or the Conservation Area, according to a council report.

■ LOCAL PLANNING ROUNDUP PLANNING permission is being sought to change the use of Pitt House, off Broad Street in Lyme Regis, from a shop to a residential flat.

The ground floor of the building, which is situated in the NCP car park to the rear of Tesco, was previously used for residential use, before being changed to retail use in 1983.

It was previously known as The Cottage Bakery and most recently as home interior shop Dotty Home.

Plans have now been submitted to return the ground floor to residential use as a one-bedroom flat with an open plan kitchen, sitting and dining area, bathroom, conservatory to the rear leading to a separate WC and a garden at the rear of the property.

The plans say there will be no physical changes to the exterior of the building and it will therefore have no impact on the visual character of the whole building.

Other planning applications currently under consideration by Dorset Council include the following: ● Upgrade of fire protection and escape route, and installation of fire alarm system at 44-45 Coombe Street, which is a listed building. ● Loft conversion to include three dormer windows to the rear and a full-height glazed

entrance well to the front, conversion of garage with addition of a conservatory to the rear, erect new single-storey garage and formation of additional terracing at Galen Lea, Sidmouth Road. ● Front and rear extension at Magnolia House, Sidmouth Road. ● Rear extension part ground floor only and part two-story with lower and upper ground floors, add first floor bedroom over existing ground floor at 39 Sherborne Lane. ● First floor extension incorporating raised mono pitch roof and rear single-storey leanto extension, ground floor side extension, landscape and access alterations to front of the property, new solar panels and heat pump at the rear of Appletree Cottage, Coram Avenue. ● Changes to fenestration at The Lawn, Pound Street. ● Two-storey rear extension at 4 Cobb Road. ● Installation of compact lift between flats 1 and 5 at 1 High Cliff House, Sidmouth Road, which is a listed building. ● Erect garden canopy and extend garden boundary at Cleaveland, Pound Street. ● Retrospective planning for fencing and gate boundaries, one shed and one lean-to and access at Humming Bird, Marine Parade.

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Relax and dine with us OLIVES £3 | VG

CHARMOUTH BAKERY MINI LOAF £3 | VG Rapeseed oil balsamic vinegar or salted butter/vegan spread

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Mixed leaves, sundried tomatoes, olives, sour dough croutons, red onion Add cajun chicken, crayfish tails, smoked salmon seitan

Chorizo, salami, prosciutto, cheddar cheese, cornichons, olives, walnuts, remoulade, bread

SALT & PEPPER SQUID £7 | £14 paprika mayonnaise, mixed leaves

HERBY NEW POTATO SALAD £7 | £12 Spring onions, olives, chicory, asparagus, pine nuts, herbs, lemon garlic oil Add cajun chicken, crayfish tails, smoked salmon seitan

FISH GRILLED CORNISH HAKE £17 Buttered new potatoes, seasonal greens, lemon butter PALMERS ALE BATTERED COD £8 | £16

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Thick cut chips, crushed peas, tartare sauce

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BRODET £16

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Today’s market fish, potato, tomato and parsley stew, bread

TODAY’S LOCAL CAUGHT GRILLED FISH £18 Please ask for today’s choice

WE LOVE LOCAL

CHARCUTERIE BOARD £10 | £18

PILOT BOAT KEBAB £7 | £14 | VG Flatbread, remoulade, onion, chilli sauce, red cabbage, garlic mayo Choose seitan or chicken Large portion with fries WHOLE TAILED BREADED SCAMPI £7 | £14 Tartare sauce, mixed leaves Large portion with thick cut chips

Tables 1 metre apart One-way system Table service throughout Continuing to keep our guests and staff safe and secure

Charmouth Bakery - Charmouth Kingfisher - Brixham West Country Catch - Weymouth Complete Meats - Axminster Foots Eggs - Sherbourne RD Johns - Newton Abbot Last Course Patisserie - Cullompton West Country Veg - Newton Abbot Crab Man - Beer

GRILLS PILOT BOAT BURGER £14

Brioche bun, tomato relish, gherkin, gem lettuce, skinny fries

PLANT BURGER £14 | VG Brioche bun, plant based patty, tomato relish, gherkin, gem lettuce, skinny fries Moving Mountains @Burger TM CAJUN CHICKEN BURGER £14 Brioche bun, mayonnaise, gherkin, gem lettuce, skinny fries CHICKEN FREE ‘CHICKEN’ BURGER £14 | VG

Brioche bun, seitan chicken patty, spicy mayonnaise gherkin, gem lettuce, skinny fries Add to your burger cheddar, Dorset blue, goats, plant based cheese, bacon, plant-based bacon, caramelised onions £1.50 each

WEST COUNTRY 8oz SIRLOIN STEAK £24

PLEASE BE PATIENT - ALL OUR FOOD IS COOKED FRESH TO ORDER

Thick cut chips, Diane sauce, mixed leaves

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MEDITERRANEAN £14 | V Mozarella, tomato sauce, olives, capers, red onion, sun-dried tomato, artichoke

PEPPERONI £13 Mozarella, tomato sauce

WALNUT, CARAMELISED RED ONION & GOATS CHEESE £14 | V

SPICED BEEF £14 Mozarella, chillis, spring onions, tomato sauce

TODAY’S SPECIAL PIZZA

DORSET HAM & MUSHROOM £13 Mozarella, tomato sauce

SIDES THICK CUT CHIPS £4 SKINNY FRIES £4 BABY MIXED LEAVES £4 BUTTERED NEW POTATOES £4 NEW POTATO SALAD £4 SEASONAL GREENS £4 REMOULADE £4

Mozarella, tomato sauce

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Tomato chutney, Charmouth Bakery bread

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SEITAN £14 | V Mozarella, tomato sauce, seitan, sweetcorn, red onion

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SMOKED SALMON & CREME FRAICHE £7 Charmouth Bakery bread

Booking essential - www.thepilotboat.co.uk or email - reservations@thepilotboat.co.uk

1 Bridge Street, Lyme Regis DT7 3QA – 01297 443157

10 Friday, September 3 2021

Busy Bank Holiday weekend for volunteer lifeboat crew

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Grandmother cycling 870 miles for the RNLI

A GRANDMOTHER, who has sailed the Atlantic three times with her husband, has set out on a virtual cycle ride from Land’s End to John O’Groats to raise funds for the RNLI. Barbara Townsend, aged 80, from Axminster, rides her exercise bike every day and has clocked up more than 300 miles so far – virtually just north of Birmingham.

Her target to virtually reach John O’Groats is some 870 miles.

Mrs Townsend, who has seven grandchildren, has raised £950 so far on her JustGiving page, having started her marathon ride on August 4.

She and husband David, aged 84, were keen sailors and crossed the Atlantic three times in their 42 foot ocean going sailing boat.

She said: “The RNLI does a fantastic job, and when we used to pop over to France it was always comforting to know the volunteers of the RNLI were always there if we needed them.

“Fortunately we never had to call them out.”

Mrs Townsend’s donation page can be found www.justgiving.com/fundraising/Barbara-Townsend and is being supported by members of her closest RNLI lifeboat station in Lyme Regis.

LYME Regis lifeboat crew had a busy Bank Holiday weekend with three call-outs in two days.

The volunteer crew were first called out at 12.45pm on Sunday to reports to a broken down speedboat in the bay.

The speedboat developed problems off Burton Bradstock and was initially towed by a fishing boat.

The RNLI crew took over the tow into West Bay harbour and returned to the station at 1.44pm.

Three hours later, the crew were called out again to reports of two youngsters in difficulties while paddle boarding off Eype.

The crew were launched 4.45pm but, after finding no trace of the youngsters, coastguards heard that they had been helped to safety ashore by friends.

Four people aboard a dinghy were then towed to safety by the lifeboat crew on Bank Holiday Monday.

The four people had set off from Charmouth beach but had trouble with the engine and drifted nearly two miles off from the beach.

The lifeboat crew towed the boat and four people back to Charmouth beach where they were safe to recover their boat.

The crew launched at 2.15pm and returned to Lyme Regis lifeboat station 3pm.

Coastguards rescue unconscious girl on water’s edge at Charmouth COASTGUARDS and the ambulance service were called to reports of a child unconscious on the water’s edge in Charmouth last week.

The incident took place just before 3pm on Wednesday, August 25 with coastguards from Lyme Regis and West Bay, and the South Western Ambulance Service, called to the scene at east beach in Charmouth.

A 12-year-old girl was found unconscious at the water’s edge. Initial casualty care was provided by the coastguards until the ambulance arrived shortly afterwards.

Once the casualty had regained consciousness, she was stretchered back to the waiting ambulance for a full assessment by paramedics.

Autumn flower celebration at Axminster's Holy Cross Church FOLLOWING the success of its Spring Flower Celebration last year, Holy Cross in Woodbury Lane, Axminster, will be hosting an Autumn Flower Celebration this September.

Come and see the warm colours of autumn over the weekend of Friday, September 10 to Sunday, September 12.

The event will be open from 12noon to 4pm on the Friday, 10am to 4pm on the Saturday and 10am to 2.30pm on the Sunday.

Holy Cross is one of the churches in the Axe Valley Mission Community and is situated in Woodbury Lane, Axminster, signed off Lyme Road.

Refreshments and light lunches can be enjoyed in nearby Woodbury Hall.

For more information please call 01297 598953.

Town band to host annual meeting LYME Regis Town Band will host its annual general meeting on Tuesday, October 5.

The meeting will be held from 8pm at the Woodmead Halls and all are welcome to attend.

Explorer Scouts try their hand at gig rowing

UPLYME Explorer Sea Scouts took to the water last week as they gave gig rowing a go for the first time as part of a partnership with Lyme Regis Gig Club.

Sarah Dean, Explorer Sea Scout leader, said: “We were delighted to be given the chance to do gig rowing by the gig club. It’s given the Explorers even more opportunities to learn new skills for life, and try something new.

“I think one or two might even take it up given they enjoyed it so much. We’re grateful to the gig club for letting us have a go.”

Over a couple of sessions, the Explorers learned about the pilot gig boats, how they work, how to stay safe when rowing, and most importantly how to row and the techniques involved.

This all culminated in a race between the Explorer Sea Scouts in the two gigs, with the team on ‘Tempest’ narrowly beating the team on Rebel.

Marcus ‘Dixon’, Lyme Regis Gig Club member, said: “We’ve had some great sessions with the Explorers - they have picked up gig rowing very quickly. So quick in fact, that they managed to even

race each other at the end of week two in ‘Rebel’ and ‘Tempest’.

“We’re all about sharing our love of gig rowing with the rest of the community, and we look forward to welcoming the Explorer Sea Scouts back soon.”

Bruce Kahn, Lyme Regis Gig Club member and former Scout Leader, added: “I’ve been wanting to get the Scouts along for a number of years, and we’ve finally gotten round to doing it.

“It’s been great to see some familiar faces again, seeing them get stuck into gig rowing and I hope they’ve enjoyed having a go.”

The Powder Monkeys Explorer Sea Scout Unit, which is associated with the 1st Lym Valley Scout Group based in Uplyme, continues to go from strength to strength.

Having done a range of water activities over the summer, they are looking forward to being back on land for the autumn term.

Those aged 13 and a half to 17 and interested in joining the unit can contact Sarah Dean by emailing Sarah.Dean@devonscouts.or g.uk or by visiting lymvalleyscouts.org.uk

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Lyme Regis Taekwondo Club cheering on Paralympic athletes in Tokyo Games blue belt. He is now only four gradings away from receiving his black belt.

Dexter is also part of the GB Para Poomsae squad and has been training every month with the squad via Zoom since the start of the coronavirus pandemic.

Sharon said: “Not only will we be cheering on Team GB members, like Amy Truesdale, but also our good friend Ivan Mikulic from the Croatian Para Taekwondo Team.

“I first met Ivan back in 2017 at the World Para Taekwondo Competition in London, where he was competing.

“He didn’t mind an excited, curious and talkative five-year-old Dexter asking him questions or sitting with him.

“Ivan promised to give Dexter his black belt that he was wearing after he finished his competition. I brought the belt back with me and gave it to Dexter at the club, and since then, Ivan has become a hero of Dexter’s and mine.”

The taekwondo competition at the Tokyo Paralympics got underway yesterday (Thursday) and continues until tomorrow (Saturday).

Lyme Regis Taekwondo Club would like to wish all the athletes good luck and will be cheering them on.

ABOVE left, Dexter Weldin has overcome physical challenges to achieve his blue belt with Lyme Regis Taekwondo Club, and above right, Livia Bray has not let her cerebral palsy hold her back, having recently passed her first grading

DEXTER, then aged five, meets his hero Ivan Mikulic, from the Croatian Para Taekwondo Team, at the World Para Taekwondo Competition in 2017

LYME Regis Taekwondo Club instructor Sharon Ward and members pictured with the Croatian Para Taekwondo Team at the World Para Taekwondo Competition in 2017

WITH the Paralympics now underway in Tokyo, lesser known or not often televised sports are enjoying their time in the spotlight.

This year, taekwondo joins them having only been recognised as a Paralympic sport.

It is already a well-established para sport but, only this year has it been allowed to bathe in the same glory as its counterpart in the Olympics.

Some 6,000 miles away from the games in Japan, Lyme Regis Taekwondo Club members are especially excited to watch this year’s competition, as they have two para athletes among their ranks.

Six-year-old Livia Bray, who took up taekwondo in April has cerebral palsy but doesn’t let her condition hold her back. Instructor Sharon Ward says Livia is “always smiling and is a joy to teach, gaining confidence all the time”.

“I have already seen an improvement in her leg strength,” added Sharon.

“Livia recently gained her first grading at the club and is working towards her second.”

Dexter Weldin, aged nine, has been a member of the club since he was four and half years old.

He was born missing the lower part of his left arm and leg but, again, he hasn’t let them hold him back and has recently gained his

How can we stop Lyme’s roadside wildflowers being killed by weed spraying?

■ AN open letter to Dorset Council: There is an article in our local online newspaper (lyme-online.co.uk/news/dorset-news/dorsetcouncil-releases-videos-on-how-it-is-encouragingbiodiversity-on-roadside-verges/). It tells how your organisation is preserving verges for wildlife.

In May or June last year a spraying vehicle drove around Lyme Regis spraying the pavement verges.

He sprayed hollihocks and valerian which had been growing wild, in the gap between the foot of my wall and the edge of the pavement for many years, and I had kept tidy, clearing it out at the end of the year. I chased after him and I was, I am afraid, incandescent! He said to spray them with water; I did but they were never the same again that year. He

LymeOnline Letters told me he never sprayed wild flowers, only weeds, but almost every weed is a wild flower in June/July.

More tragic is that bees, bumble bees, hover flies, etc, will have been sprayed too. For eight years I kept bees in Devon. The local farmers used to phone me the day before they sprayed to enable me to shut my bees in their hives.

This year the vehicle came back. I did not see it this time but all the roadside wild flowers and overflows of garden plantings were suddenly dying.

Pictured are some dead plants in Avenue Road,

Lyme Regis, in August, which look much worse than a row of flowering weeds. Does anyone come to hoe up the dead stuff? He did avoid my hollihock display so I was grateful for that.

A few years ago Dorset Council announced that spraying verges would stop for economic reasons and the current article says so again. So please how can we stop Lyme's wildflowers being sprayed?

We have an active Lyme Garden Growers group which will consider hoeing the verges of rubbishy weeds and grasses, if we are permitted. I was a town councillor in Lyme Regis for 16 years till 2015, and still maintain interest in the good of the town.

Lorna Jenkin, Woodmead Road, Lyme Regis

12 Friday, September 3 2021

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Lyme Regis Sea School faces future with confidence after another successful season training youngsters LYME Regis Sea School successfully completed the last of its Summer Intensive Courses last week, when 30 students gained their Royal Yachting Association (RYA) Qualifications.

The summer programme comprised of four week-long courses which were all well supported, thoroughly enjoyed by both students and the team, and praised for their level of organisation.

The year was critical to the future of Lyme Regis Sea School as the COVID pandemic had made any activity during 2020 impossible and there was every possibility that a second year of inactivity would bring an end to the organisation.

The school was formed as a charity 1996 when the Lyme Regis Activity Centre, based at what is now the Boat Building Academy on Monmouth Beach, closed down.

Dorset Education Dept agreed to hand over half of the equipment to the sea school on condition that it was set up as a charity with the objective of teaching young people to sail and be registered RYA Training Centre.

Thanks to the hard work of a group of people, led by Jim Bolton, and the generosity of Bridport Round Table who funded the first two years, this duly happened and Lyme Regis Sea School is now in its 26th year, operating with close cooperation and support of the Lyme Regis Sailing Club.

The 2020 lack of activity pre-

sented not only a problem financially but also in staffing. Students who join the courses pass through a series of RYA courses and gain increasing competence and, on reaching a suitable stage, are invited to become a helper.

They assist in the running of the courses and receive training to become assistant instructors. When they reach 16 years old, they are funded to become registered RYA instructors and, at 18, senior instructors.

COVID broke this progression leading to a shortage of experienced sailors at all levels.

Primarily, Nikky Williams, the Principal of LRSS who started as a student, had gained promotion and become skipper of her own ship and was largely unavailable due to having little free time.

Fortunately, however, chief instructor Josh Bolton was still available, having recently qualified as a science teacher and, together with Oliver Tucker, who later qualified as a senior instructor, pulled a team together.

Training took place in powerboat driving, first aid and advanced sailing techniques and nine candidates qualified as dinghy instructors on two courses in Lyme Regis and Portland.

Assistant instructors and helpers were selected and training undertaken, whilst bookings were undertaken by Patricia Williams and work continued on the fleet of boats

LYME Regis Sea School members celebrate completing their qualifications and, below, out on the water to bring them up to standard.

A spokesperson for Lyme Regis Sea School said: “It was with some trepidation that we greeted the first course of students having taken all the necessary COVID precautions but from the start it was clear that all was well.

“A minor miracle had taken place and, despite all the problems, the new team gelled together to form what has been acclaimed by many harbour users and observers as one of the best and well organised teams we have had.

“Lyme Regis Sea School is now in a position to face the future with confidence and we thank all those who have made it possible.”

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Exploring the history of Charmouth beach

‘Gardeners’ World’ star to give talk for local horticultural society UPLYME & Lyme Regis Horticultural Society will welcome a special guest as it restarts its programme of face-to-face events.

Nick Bailey from BBC’s ‘Gardeners’ World’ will give a talk at Uplyme Village Hall called ‘Revive Your Garden’ on Wednesday, September 15. Doors open at 7pm for a 7.30pm start.

Nick will look at how to breathe life, style and good health back into a tired garden, whether it’s a long-standing plot that has become tired and unloved, or a newly-acquired garden that needs some attention.

His focus is on simple ideas, techniques and design solutions that anyone can achieve,

Nick will also give seasonal guidance on the best times to undertake basic tasks, so that reviving your garden becomes both satisfying and rewarding.

He will also be bringing copies of his book ‘Revive Your Garden’, which can be purchased on the night.

Entry will cost £5 for society members and £10 for non-members. This event is advance booking only with payment taken on the night.

Seat numbers are limited so please book early to avoid disappointment by emailing Jo Benke-Smith on joanna.ulrhs@yahoo.com

NEWS FROM CITIZENS ADVICE

OVER the coming weeks, people claiming Universal Credit will receive notifications about a cut to their benefits this autumn.

Benefits experts at Citizens Advice, which is campaigning against the reduction, set out what this means for claimants.

When will the cut happen?

Currently, the government intends to reduce benefits by £20 a week - equivalent to £1,040 a year - from October 6.

The exact date people will see the cut kick in will depend on the day they get their Universal Credit payment. For many, this means September will be the last month they see their benefits paid at existing levels.

How many people will be affected?

If plans go ahead, the cut will hit nearly six million people on Universal Credit. More than a third (38 per cent) of those who’ll see their income hit are already in employment, while one in six (16 per cent) are under 25.

Latest figures show roughly 1.9 million families with children will see their benefits cut.

How much could I lose?

While every Universal Credit payment will drop by around £85 a month, the proportion of income that claimants will lose will vary depending on their circumstances. Single people under 25 are set to be hit by the biggest drop.

Previous analysis by Citizens Advice shows £20 a week is equivalent to six days of energy costs or three days of food costs for a low-income family.

What support is available if I’m worried about my income?

You’re not alone and Citizens Advice is on hand to help you understand what the cut means and what you can do if you’re worried about making ends meet.

Everyone’s situation is different and depending on your circumstances, help could include: ● A benefits check. This will help you verify you’re getting all the support you’re entitled to.

You can use an online calculator or contact your local Citizens Advice.

Support with essential costs. You can contact your local council to see if they can give you any extra help from a hardship fund, including food or essential things like clothes. Check your local council on GOV.UK. ● Help with debt. Some bills can cause you more problems than others if you don’t pay them. Rent or mortgage arrears, energy bills and council tax are your priority debts as there can be serious consequences if you don’t pay them. Citizens Advice can provide guidance if you’re struggling with bills. ● Free school meals. If you have children and you get certain benefits, you might be able to get free school meals for your children. ● Food bank vouchers. If you can’t afford the food you can ask for a referral from Citizens Advice or an organisation that’s already supporting you - for example, a charity, school or children’s centre - for a food bank voucher.

Morgan Wild, head of policy at Citizens Advice, said: “More than half a million people have come to Citizens Advice for support with Universal Credit since the pandemic. We know the extra £20 a week has often meant the difference between empty cupboards and food on the table.

“The government should do the right thing and keep this vital lifeline. It’s the best way of making good on its ‘levelling up’ promise and supporting households to recover from this crisis.”

Citizens Advice in Lyme Regis is now running drop-in advice sessions on Wednesdays 10am to 12noon at Lyme Regis Town Council offices in Church Street (DT7 3BS).

Please ask at the town council reception and no appointment is needed. Alternatively, telephone Freephone 0800 144 8848 or send an email using the contact form on the website www.bridportca.org.uk ●

CHARMOUTH Local History Society will present illustrated talk ‘Charmouth Beach Scenes From Its Past’, looking back at how the village has changed over the centuries.

Charmouth owes its existence to its proximity to the sea and the river Char, from which it gets its name, although much altered from its original of Cerne mouth.

The talk, presented by Neil Mattingly, will cover its early history stretching back nearly two thousand years on the Roman Road in the first part and then as a popular resort in the second part.

At the time of the Domesday in 1085, Charmouth was a small settlement producing salt by boiling sea water in large metal basins and collecting the residue.

Robert of Mortian, in Normandy, the half brother of William the Conqueror, owned the village at the time of the Norman invasion. He is shown on the Bayeaux Tapestry to the right of William.

Charmouth was one of 71 manors that he was given, which also included Catherston and Wootton Fitzpaine.

After his death in 1091,another French nobleman, William de Estre, was shown as Lord of the Manor.

With its closeness to Lyme Regis, Charmouth was also able to benefit from the boom in visitors taking the waters for their health and had its own bathing machines, which were very popular as a way of bathing in the sea without being seen.

Wagons, called bathing machines, would be drawn out into the water by sturdy women, who might then assist the bathers down into the water where you could paddle about or swim in relative privacy, shielded from view of the shore The talk will be held on Friday, September 17 at Charmouth Village Hall in Wesley Close, starting at 7pm.

Tickets are free for society members or £4 for non-members, including refreshments.

U3A talk set to have audience in stitches LYME Regis U3A will present a virtual talk

by Brad Ashton, called ‘The Job of a Laughtime’.

Brad will recall the fun he’s had writing radio and television series for top comedians, including Tommy Cooper, Les Dawson, Dick Emery, Frankie Howerd, Bruce Forsyth, Hylda Baker, Hattie Jacques, David Frost and Bob Monkhouse.

The talk contains many humorous backstage stories with some startling surprises.

It will be held via video conferencing app Zoom on Friday, September 10 from 11am.

For details on how to join the meeting, visit the website www.lymeregisu3a.org, where you can also find details of membership of this learning co-operative and all the other activities available.

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14 Friday, September 3 2021

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ARTS | MUSIC | THEATRE | WHAT’S ON | COMPETITIONS

A welcome return for Lyme Folk Weekend

ODETTE Michell and Alex Duncalf at the Marine Theatre

LYME Folk Weekend made its successful return with a bumper Bank Holiday weekend of live music.

Having been called off last summer due to the coronavirus pandemic, the festival made its much-anticipated return with headline acts including The Gigspinner Big Band, the Fay Hield Band, Ninebarrow and Friends and Merry Hell performing for enthusiastic audiences at the Marine Theatre.

A programme of free entertainment was also held over four days on Lyme Regis seafront, as well as a popular outdoor ceilidh dance on Theatre Square.

The Lewis family, who visited Lyme Regis for the event and whose daughter Thuraya have an impromptu performance on the fiddle, wrote to LymeOnline to comment: “Further to an amazing weekend in Lyme Regis, the hard work of everyone involved, proved again, a privilege to enjoy!

“A fantastic selection of artists over four days and we watched Merry Hell at the Marine Theatre and listened to the CDs on our journey home to the Cotswolds.

“The sun shone and the music on the seafront could be enjoyed by all, free of charge, which is a rarity.

“The support of all the volunteers involved is appreciated and with the last 18 months of no live music and theatre due to COVID-19, it was great to see returning talented artists.”

THE BIG BR B EAKF FA AST Supporting

FESTIVAL favourites Ninebarrow at the Marine Theatre

SHANTY singers Mariners Away on the seafront

Wo oodmead Ha alls, Lyme Regis s

Friday 24 September 8am--1pm £7 for a fulll English breakfast of orange juice, ba acon, sausage, hash brown, b fried egg, tom mato and baked beans s, toast a and marmalade.

Bacon baps and d sausage sandwiches s £4 Takeaways an nd deliveries available call 07796 0 951991

CHRIS Samuel of the Magnificent AKs on the seafront

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Friday, September 3 2021 15

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IMPROMPTU act Thuraya Lewis plays fiddle on Marine Parade

THE Lyme Folk ceilidh dance on Theatre Square

What’s on Friday, September 3

Music: Laid Blak Marine Theatre 7pm With inspiration from ska and reggae, Laid Blak’s influences are broad and represent sounds that define Bristol music, from dancehall to soul, hip hop, funk and jazz, and their jungle heritage. Bar opens 7pm for 8pm start. Tickets from marinetheatre.com

Sunday, September 5

MERRY Hell at there Marine Theatre

Jazz in the Bar Marine Theatre, 7pm Jazz nights return to the Marine Theatre bar with violin virtuoso Dan Baker playing the music of Stéphane Grappelli. Bar opens 7pm for 8pm start, tickets from £10 at www.marinetheatre.com

Monday, September 6

Football Club Bingo Lyme Regis Football Club, 7.30pm Bingo in aid of Lyme Regis Football Club, held of the first Monday of every month. Cash prizes, eyes down at 7.30pm.

Thursday, September 9

THE Seagrass Trio perform on the seafront

Talk: ‘Architecture for Animals’ Bridport Town Hall, 2.30pm West Dorset Art Society hosts this talk by Lady Lucinda Lambton, on architects who have turned their mind to buildings for animals. Non-members welcome, entry £7.50.

Theatre: ‘Howerd’s End’ Marine Theatre, 7pm This brand new play by Mark Farrelly takes you to the heart of comedian Frankie Howerd’s clandestine relationship with and Dennis Heymer, which lasted from the 1950s until Frankie's death in 1992. Bar opens at 7pm for 8pm start, tickets from £14 at www.marinetheatre.com

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

Lyme Regis Community Bingo Woodmead Halls, 8pm Bingo night every Thursday, raising funds for local organisations which are members of Lyme Regis Community Bingo Association.

Doors open 7.30pm, eyes down 8pm.

Friday, September 10

Virtual Talk: ‘The Job of a Laughtime’ Zoom, 11am Lyme Regis U3A hosts this talk

by Brad Ashton, who recalls the fun he’s had writing radio and TV series for top comedians. The talk contains many humorous backstage stories with some startling surprises.

To join via Zoom, visit the website www.lymeregisu3a.org Landance in Lyme Gun Cliff Walk, 7.30pm Landance in Lyme is a special dance and poetry performance.

All are welcome at this free, outside event starting below the Marine Theatre. The performance will move along the seafront exploring the effects of climate change on coastal communities such as West Dorset (repeated on Saturday morning).

Saturday, September 11

Landance in Lyme Gun Cliff Walk, 7.30am Landance in Lyme is a special dance and poetry performance.

All are welcome at this free, outside event starting below the Marine Theatre. The performance will move along the seafront exploring the effects of climate change on coastal communities such as West Dorset.

Tuesday, September 14

Talk: ‘What Have Insects Ever Done For Us; What Can We Do For Them?’

Marine Theatre, 6pm

A talk presented by Dr George McGavin, a zoologist, entomologist, broadcaster and President of The Dorset Wildlife Trust. Bar opens at 6pm for 7pm start, tickets from £10 at www.marinetheatre.com

Wednesday, September 15

Talk: ‘Revive Your Garden’ Uplyme Village Hall, 7pm Uplyme & Lyme Regis Horticultural Society is restarting its face to face events this autumn with star speaker Nick Bailey from BBC’s Gardeners’ World.

Tickets cost £5 for members or £10 for non-members and must be booked in advance – email joanna.ulrhs@yahoo.com

Thursday, September 16

Music: The Troggs Marine Theatre, 7pm The English garage rock band famed for ‘Wild Thing’, ‘Love is All Around’, and ‘With a Girl Like You’ appear here in Lyme Regis. Bar opens 7pm for 8pm start, tickets from £20 at www.marinetheatre.com Lyme Regis Community Bingo Woodmead Halls, 8pm Bingo night every Thursday, raising funds for local organisations which are members of Lyme Regis Community Bingo Association.

Doors open 7.30pm, eyes down 8pm.

Friday, September 17

Talk: ‘Charmouth Beach Scenes From Its Past’ Charmouth Village Hall, 7pm Charmouth Local History Society presents an illustrated look back at how the area as changed over the centuries, with Neil Mattingly. Tickets free for members or £4 for nonmembers including refreshments.

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World famous shanty singers to appear at new festival THE band at the forefront of the 2021 sea shanty revival is setting sail for Lyme Regis as they prepare to perform at a brand new free entry festival, organised in partnership with the University of Exeter.

Born out of a mutual love of traditional folk songs and shanties, The Longest Johns rock maritime songs alongside the more unusual and less traditional folk tunes.

In a few short years they have gone from singing sea shanties in a kitchen to international folk festivals, tours and television appearances.

They gained a huge online following thanks to their version of the shanty ‘Wellerman’,

which went viral on social media.

Taking place at the Marine Theatre on Saturday, September 25, the Festival of the Sea is a day of eclectic events celebrating the ocean.

It will feature performances and family activities alongside talks from world-leading scientists and local people, brought to life in the famous marine community of Lyme Regis.

The event includes activities for all the family, including the Story Boat Project, a miniature maritime museum, and an arts and crafts workshop (pictured left).

The talks taking place are on accessible topics such as the Galapagos, The Social Life of Fish, Discovering New Lobsters, and How to Protect the Ocean. Most of the speakers are from the University of Exeter’s special department Exeter Marine.

Any local organisation which would like to get involved can email contact@agilerabbit.com. The event is part of Futures2021, a project that has received funding from the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme.

The event starts at 2pm. Entry is free but booking is required via the website www.marinetheatre.com

Acclaimed new play explores secret life of one of Britain’s most-loved comedians FAMED for ‘Up Pompeii’, the ‘Carry On’ Films and dozens of television appearances, Frankie Howerd was one of Britain's most loved comedians for half a century.

Coming to the Marine Theatre in Lyme Regis, ‘Howerd's End’ is a brand new play

by Mark Farrelly.

It explores the heart of Frankie's secret personal life with his manager Dennis Heymer.

The play also pays great tribute to the legendary comic with extended scenes of Frankie in fullflight stand up mode.

Packed with laughter, but unafraid of truth, ‘Howerd’s End’ portrays a journey through closeness, love, grief and all the other things that make life worth living.

The play has received rave reviews for its off West End run, and is from the same writer of ‘Quentin Crisp: Naked Hope’

ARTIST Jackie Williams (second from right) with family members including twin sister Gilly Warr, and the Mayor of Lyme Regis, Cllr Brian Larcombe MBE.

Accomplished artist returns home for exhibition

It will be performed at the Marine Theatre on Thursday, September 9 with the bar opening at 7pm for an 8pm start.

Tickets cost £14 in advance or £16 on the door and are available via the Marine Theatre website www.marinetheatre.com

TALENTED artist Jackie Williams returned to her hometown last week to stage an exhibition of her work at the Courtyard Gallery at the Town Mill in Lyme Regis.

Jackie, the daughter of former town clerk Harry Williams and his wife Jean, was educated at The Woodroffe School after which she studied at the Bristol College of Art. She worked in London before moving to the North of England to work on a number of design projects for a national brewery.

Jackie now lives in Chorley, Lancashire, where she is an active member of the local arts community and where she runs a de-

sign agency, Primary Colours.

It was during lockdown that she rediscovered of love of art and put together a collection of many styles, including a number inspired by her years in Lyme Regis, which were soon snapped up when the exhibition opened.

The exhibition was opened by the Mayor of Lyme Regis, Cllr Brian Larcombe MBE, who spoke about Jackie’s early talent as a student at Woodroffe and recalled when she display her work at the former Tor Galleries in Lyme.

Friday, September 3 2021 17

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y it n u m m o |c rt o p s | s w e n 24/7

th ou m r a h C & e m ly p U , is g e Lyme R ONLINE - MOBILE - AND IN PRINT LymeOnline is an independent, family-run website and newspaper offering unrivalled and comprehensive coverage of the Lyme Regis, Uplyme and Charmouth areas.

Launched in 2018, we have quickly become the first choice for local news and were commended for Community Website of the Year in the national newsawards 2020.

We offer competitive advertising and sponsorship rates, and our multi-media approach means we reach a wide audience of both residents and visitors, of all ages.

We let the figures speak for themselves...

The LymeOnline website is visited by an average of 30,000 users a month The free, fortnightly LymeOnline printed newspaper has a distribution of 4,000 and the digital version on our website is read by an average of 1,600 people We have a combined following of more than 7,000 across Facebook, Twitter & Instagram Almost 2,000 readers are subscribed to our weekly email newsletter Call editor Francesca Evans on 07810 221 420 or email francesca@lyme-online.co.uk for details on our competitive advertising rates and exclusive sponsorship packages

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18 Friday, September 3 2021

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Climate change a ‘code red for humanity’ – but what can we do here in Lyme Regis?

By town councillor and climate activist Belinda Bawden

"CLIMATE change is widespread, rapid and intensifying", "Code red for Humanity" – surely no-one could have missed these headlines on the publication of the Intergovernmental Panel of Climate Change (IPCC) report, published on August 9?

The UN Secretary-General António Guterres said the working group's report was nothing less than "a code red for humanity”, adding: “The alarm bells are deafening, and the evidence is irrefutable.”

He noted that the internationallyagreed threshold of 1.5 degrees above pre-industrial levels of global heating was "perilously close” and commented: “We are at imminent risk of hitting 1.5 degrees in the near term. The only way to prevent exceeding this threshold, is by urgently stepping up our efforts, and pursuing the most ambitious path.

"We must act decisively now, to keep 1.5 alive."

If, like me, you find the whole issue of climate change and the devastating human and environmental impacts it is having completely overwhelming, do not despair, do not deny and do not ignore.

We can all be part of the solution.

I recently wrote an article for West County Bylines with some ideas based on my long-term interest as a geographer in humanity's impact on the natural world, and on my recent experience as a town councillor focusing on the climate and ecological crisis, considering the politics of climate change - what can we do?

As the UN Secretary-General stated, the solutions are clear: "Inclusive and green economies, prosperity, cleaner air and better health are possible for all, if we respond to this crisis with solidarity and courage."

What does this mean for Lyme Regis and what can we do about it?

Yes, we need global co-operation on a massive scale and hope and expect COP26 in Glasgow to deliver the serious change in momentum we need.

Yes, we need national governments to put the policies and regulations in place and properly fund our local authorities to make the required changes.

Yes, we can work with Dorset Council to help them deliver their Climate and Ecological Emergency Strategy and Action Plan. However, the solutions must be hyperlocal and driven by the needs of the community.

This means town and parish councils taking a hugely responsible role by setting examples to others by putting their own plans to reduce greenhouse emissions into practice, and by engaging with the wider community to shape the healthier, cleaner, safer and greener future for the town and the surrounding areas.

As a community, we can assess our greatest risks and the areas where we could have the most impact by taking action. We will need to consider how best to deal with rising sea levels, increasing temperatures and heat waves, greater rainfall and flood risks, as well as potential in-migration.

Climate Central's interactive Coastal Risk Screening Tool enables close examination of science-based forecasts of potential flood risk areas.

Lyme Regis seems to escape the more extreme risks the estuary-based coastal towns face, including Poole, Weymouth,

Bridport, Seaton and Exmouth, but once the map is enlarged, our beach car parks, caravan and chalet sites and even the lower parts of town are at risk of coastal flooding, as early as 2030.

In the 'Future Town' Community PlaceMaking and Transport Planning project undertaken by the Royal College of Art and others last year in Lyme Regis, residents offered their hopes and visions for a greener, cleaner future town with better transport and more space for walking and cycling, more community-based activities and fewer traffic and parking problems.

The Woodroffe School Year 12 art and design students shared their creative ideas for future sustainable means of transport and the findings show the huge interest and positive commitment in the community to work together to improve our own health and well-being by improving our built and natural environments.

The ideas generated from the initial findings form an excellent starting point for future discussions later this year.

Please join in and share your ideas!

The Impact Community Carbon Calculator clearly shows that housing, mostly domestic gas boilers, contributes the most to the town's territorial emissions.

Lyme Regis Development Trust, in collaboration with Turn Lyme Green, other community groups, volunteers and the town council, is working with Dorset Community Energy to develop renewable energy generation, as well as providing information, advice and guidance to householders to help them have warmer, more energy-efficient homes with cheaper, greener energy.

Meet like-minded people The new Dorset Climate Action Network (DorsetCAN) is a network of community groups and individuals working together for a shared vision of a clean, green, sustainable Dorset - taking action together. Join us as a founder member or encourage your community group to link in.

Joining climate action networks will not only help you meet like-minded people who are happy to share their knowledge and experience but will be a source of support when the going gets tough and the task seems overwhelming.

Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram for daily news and examples of inspiring local actions.

During the Great Big Green Week, DorsetCAN is co-ordinating a Greener Homes event on the weekends of Saturday, September 25 and Sunday, October 3. Homeowners who have changed their lifestyle or cut down their energy use will welcome you to their homes to share their advice and experience.

On a household or personal level, our consumption-based emissions show that Lyme residents’ average per household carbon footprints are significantly higher than the England average, though we are lower than Dorset Council's due to the greater impact of agriculture in their average.

Our emissions used for travel and for consuming goods brought from outside the town form our largest impacts. So shopping more locally will reduce both those impacts.

Please support our local businesses, many of whom offer Gateway Card holders reductions or seasonal discounts.

Look out for the next Totally Locally

Fiver Fest campaign in October which offers bargains to celebrate our local independent businesses and this time will offer free parking in Dorset Council car parks to encourage us all to join in.

Dorset Council is also considering flexible 'Pop and Shop' permits alongside resident and worker permits, which should encourage better support for local high streets, following consultation with residents.

The Lyme Regis Car Club trial with an electric car from Co-Cars, an Exeterbased social enterprise, should be able to start soon now that the electric charging points are being installed in the town council's Woodmead car park.

Prospects for a network of electric bike rental hubs are being discussed with neighbouring towns and villages.

Shopping locally, supporting our local businesses to keep employment prospects healthy, walking or cycling where we can, joining a car club or switching to an electric car are all solutions and choices we can make to reduce our consumption and travel impacts.

We do not need to wait for technology which does not yet exist, important though investment in research for carbon capture and storage and blue and green hydrogen power will be.

The point is we can all make small changes as individuals and as communities.

The Seaside Store in Lyme Regis is tackling the huge issue of food waste by buying through FareShare and accepting donations from local farms and supermarkets of food which would otherwise contribute to our waste.

Bridport's Food Matters initiative links food producers and consumers, various groups dealing with food waste, the glut store, food bank, allotment growers, Ecoschools and those wishing to learn how to grow, prepare and preserve food.

The Lyme Regis Town Council is currently considering an innovative Seafront Food Waste to Living Soil trial project to convert food and organic packaging waste, including coffee cups, into a nutritious living compost soil using biotechnology.

Changes to our diet can have a big impact on a personal basis and Lyme is very lucky to have a wide range of cafes, restaurants and pubs offering vegetarian and vegan options.

So if joining a community group is not for you, making changes even on an individual level can make a difference.

The Giki Carbon Footprint toolkit is free, fun to use and can help you track the effect of any changes you decide to try.

Households, community groups or streets could do it together and see who can reduce their footprint the most.

Finally, when saving humanity's future on our beautiful planet seems all too daunting, perhaps we should focus on the smaller things we can do.

My daughter's idea of a ‘Re-use, Recycle’ beach toys box was a simple idea, postponed during lockdown, which is now getting huge admiration on social media. We look forward to the Happy to Chat benches to encourage good cheer and mutual friendliness in our special town!

Get involved with the Great Big Green Week LYME Regis residents are being encouraged to take part in a campaign to highlight the need for urgent action on climate and nature ahead of the United Nations climate talks later this year.

The Great Big Green Week, taking place from September 18 to 26, aims to draw attention to climate change, while also making a connection with these issues in communities.

The closest events registered so far will take place in Bridport, where West Dorset Friends of the Earth will be holding a gathering on the Millennium Green on Saturday, September 18 from 10am.

There will be stalls, short speeches and a proclamation read out by the mayor.

Bridport Tree Planting will also be holding a parent and child tree walk and quiz on Friday, September 24 at 5pm in Millennium Green.

Dorset Climate Action Network is organising an event to showcase ways of living more sustain-

ably and is looking for people who are willing to invite visitors into their homes or gardens to talk about ways we can lower our carbon footprint. To contact the group, visit dorsetcan.org All local people and organisations are invited to host events, including schools, churches, councils, clubs, workplaces and community groups. It can be a party, walk, concert, community stall, climate café or anything else. Once a time and place is known, organisers should email dwpgreenweek@gmail.co m so it can be added to the list of events for the local area.

The Great Big Green Week is being organised by The Climate Coalition, a group of people dedicated to action against climate change, whose members include the National Trust, WWF, Women’s Institute, Oxfam and RSPB. For more information and a list of events taking place, visit greatbiggreenweek.com

Join the hunt for nurdles on our beaches TURN Lyme Green hosted an Environment Day as part of Lyme Regis Regatta & Carnival Week last month.

Their ‘Guess the Number of Nurdles in the Jar’ was a popular competition during the event, with guesses ranging from 450 to 4,000. The answer was 2,731 and the winner was only 90 off target.

A spokesperson for Turn Lyme Green said: “Nurdles are demons in our seas; plastic pellets used by industry to make nearly all our

plastic products.

“Accidental spills result in large numbers being washed into our seas, ending up on beaches, including Lyme Regis and Charmouth.

“They are mistaken for food by many animals - and the nurdles and the toxins coating them can enter the food chain.”

For more information on nurdles and how to help clean them up, visit the website www.nurdlehunt.org.uk

LymeOnline is proud to support local environmental campaigns and organisations. Find out more at lyme-online.co.uk/ environmental-policy

axminsternews

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Conservatives call for background checks on East Devon councillors after former member jailed for sexual offences CONSERVATIVE members of East Devon District Council have called for enhanced background checks on all councillors, after a former member was jailed for sexual assault against two young boys.

John Humphreys (pictured), 59, was jailed for 21 years this month after being found guilty of three counts of serious sexual assault and seven of indecent assault against two boys, aged 12 and 13, in the 1990s and 2000s at Exeter Crown Court.

He was a former Mayor of Exmouth and served for 12 years as a Conservative councillor on East Devon District Council before stepping down ahead of the May 2019 local elections.

He was made an Honorary Alderman in December 2019. Mr Humphreys accepted honour despite knowing that he was under investigation by the police, but he is now expected to be formerly stripped of the title at a meeting on September 7.

The Conservative group of councillors on EDDC are now calling for Disclosure and Barring (DBS) checks for all existing councillors.

The group wants every prospective candidate

FRANCESCA EVANS

francesca@lyme-online.co.uk

and all existing councillors to undergo the checks which show any criminal convictions, with the enhanced version required if an individual is expected to work with vulnerable people, including children, being demonstrated as necessary during the COVID-19 pandemic.

They say the move would improve safety and protection whilst promoting openness and transparency but their previous called to introduce such measures "have been ignored by other groups within the council".

Cllr Colin Brown, leader of the Conservative Group, said: "We are shocked and appalled by the horrendous crimes that have come to light and our thoughts are with the victims.

"We must do everything we can to protect the public and we are calling for DBS checks to be carried out on every existing councillor and future candidates.

"I would like to see this initiative implemented as a prerequisite for standing and serving as a councillor and we plan to introduce the measure for anyone wanting to join

Axminster Business Awards building momentum INTEREST in the Axminster Business Awards continues to grow with entries coming in daily. This is expected to continue until entries close on October 15.

Sponsors are now being sort for the various category sponsorships with close to half already placed.

The awards time and date is lunchtime on Tuesday, November 23 and details will be re-

leased in September.

Nigel Reeve, of the awards organisers, Marketing West Events, said: "The ethos of the awards is to be simple and free to enter, while the awards ceremony will focus on regeneration and the promotion of local business.”

For more details or to enter, visit www.axminsterbusinessawards.co.uk

Axminster Rotary Club sponsor shirts for Millwey Rise Under 16s

the Conservative Group.

"We are calling on every councillor and the current leadership of the council to back our call and introduce the checks as soon as possible.

"It may not currently be a legal requirement, but it is unquestionably the right thing to do and if you have nothing to hide, you have nothing to fear.”

News volunteers needed for Plastic Free Axminster

PLASTIC Free Axminster is looking for determined and enthusiastic volunteers who are interested in cutting down on single-use plastic in the town.

The environmental campaign group is looking for new people to join its steering committee.

This would mean a commitment to attend a minimum of four meetings a year and to help with events, projects, etc. Creativity and technical knowledge are particularly welcome.

The group is also looking to grow its pool of volunteers, who would be willing to be called on to help at events, with projects, with litter picking and other things as they arise.

If you are interested and willing, email sasplasticfreeaxminster@gmail.com Plastic Free Axminster is pleased to announce that you can now recycle your empty medicine blister packs at Axminster Medical Practice.

Empty packs can be recycled in a blue bin just inside the practice door.

Kay Pike, community co-ordinator for Plastic Free Axminster, said: "Thank you to the doctors and practice manager Sharon Giles for supporting this recycling stream by becoming a public drop-off point.

Just pop the blister packs in a separate paper bag.

"The practice also takes expired inhalers for recycling. Please bag them up and give them in to reception."

A national network of h hyperlocal news websites, now covering the Axminster & Seatton areas With editorial content provided by the team from Ly Lym meOnline

Visit our new websites at

MILLWEY Rise Under 16s have new shirts to kick off the football season, sponsored by the Rotary Club of Axminster.

After the presentation at Cloakham Lawns on Saturday morning, President Jon Campbell-Harris said the Rotary Club wished to support local young people to develop both as individuals and team players.

It was hoped that the football shirts will

accomplish this goal and he wished the team every success for the forthcoming season.

Jack Bennett, who has been the Team Manager for a number of years, expressed a huge thank-you to the Rotary Club for sponsoring the kit for this season, and really appreciated their support in the local community.

axminsterr..nub.news and seaton.nub.news And don’t forget to follow us on Facebook & T Tw witter to keep up to date with all the latest local news

20 Friday, September 3 2021

FLASHBACKS with Richard Austin

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Tales from behind the lens of our award-winning photographer

■ SOPHIE Countess of Wessex was the VIP guest at The Association of Show and Agricultural Organisations (ASAO) at a posh hotel in Torquay.

I was the host photographer for her visit, in fact the only photographer following her around for four hours.

The Countess is one of the best royals to photograph, always getting on well with people she meets from all walks

of life. This was my third time as host photographer for the Countess and it was always a pleasant experience.

Towards the end of her visit speeches were delivered, then suddenly someone started giggling. It became infectious and then the Countess joined in, and to this day I have no idea what everyone was laughing at – some had just lost it.

On her departure and as she climbed into her car she

mouthed “thank you” to me. Of all the royals I have photographed she was the only royal to acknowledge my days work with a thank you.

Prince Andrew, at the Fleet Air Arm Yeovilton, once shouted at me to “stop this incessant flashing.” I was taking lots of pictures and the rapid use of my flashgun was annoying him.

You can view all of award-winning photographer Richard Austin’s previous ‘Flashbacks’ columns at lyme-online.co.uk/blogs

Friday, September 3 2021 21

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ITEMS TO SELL?

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

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

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

STAG-HORN SUMAC TREE, 6ft tall, pot 18 inches wide, £40 - 01297 678602.

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Send this form to: Items For Sale, LymeOnline, Unit 5, Uplyme Business Centre, Uplyme Road, Lyme Regis, Dorset DT7 3LS

TENNIS SKIRT, John Lewis, white pleated, 26” waist, unworn, £5 - 01297 443930.

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Submit your Items for Sale listings - free for any item up to £200 by emailing edit@lyme-online.co.uk or post them to LymeOnline, Unit 5 Uplyme Business Centre, Uplyme Road, Lyme Regis, Dorset DT7 3LS

Visitor Services Supervisor Lyme Regis Museum

This is an opportunity to join the friendly team in our iconic museum set on the seafront in Lyme Regis.

We’re looking for someone with exceptional customer service skills and experience of working in a heritage or retail/hospitality environment.

The role includes supervising visitor services in our busy museum, key holding and security, supervision of volunteers, retail and till operations.

You’ll work with colleagues and volunteers to deliver an excellent visitor experience as well as support our retail and famous fossil walks.

This post is part-time 2.5 days a week, including Saturdays.

Extra hours may be required during school holidays, out of hours and for staff holidays. £10.17 an hour For further details, please visit: www.lymeregismuseum.co.uk

How would you like to earn an extra £25 every fortnight?

LymeOnline is looking for someone to deliver a copy of its newspaper to every shop and business in the town centre.

Please apply by covering letter and CV to: Bridget Houseago (Programme and Operations Manager) Email: bhouseago@lymeregismuseum.co.uk

It will take about two hours. Cash payment.

Suitable for fit and active person.

Deadline for applications 12 September 2021. Interview date: 23/28 September

If interested, call Philip Evans on 07796 951 991

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LymeOnline Sport

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

Cricketers celebrate promotion AFTER a highly successful season in which the team under Sam Farrow’s captaincy gained promotion to the Devon League’s Division C, a very enjoyable fancy dress club day was held at the King George V playing field on Sunday.

The Mayor of Lyme Regis, Cllr Brian Larcombe MBE, accompanied by the mayoress and a number of town councillors paid a visit the event during the afternoon.

The club’s presentation night was held in the evening with Andy Jones getting the Clubman Award, a well deserved recognition for the many hours of work he has spent on the ground this year, and Mark Batey receiving the Players’ Player Award from fellow teammates for his efforts both with bat and on the field.

Club secretary Derek Wellman said: “The club would like to thank all sponsors and all those who follow and support club. It is very much appreciated. We look forward to more success in Division C.” AWARDS Clubman Of The Year Andy Jones; Players’ Player Of The Year Mark Batey; Captain’s Award Tyler Wellman; Most Improved Player Jack Lamb Wilson; Young Player Of The Year Joe Elsworth; Fielder Of The Year Mark Batey; Sunday Friendly Award Michael Hancock; Sixes Award - Steve Batey; Golden Duck Award Jack Lamb Wilson.

TIM Daniels pictured with club chairman Steve Batey who won the Sixes trophy

RICHARD Hindley presents the young player of the year trophy to Joe Elsworth

THE Mayor and Mayoress of Lyme Regis pictured in front of the club’s new electronic scoreboard, which the town council helped fund, with club secretary Derek Wellman

SAM Farrow presents his Captain’s Award to Tyler Wellman

PAUL Barlow pictured with Jack Lamb-Wilson who won the trophy for the most improved player

TYLER Wellman (left) and Joe Elsworth (right) pick up awards

MOST improved player, Jack Lamb-Wilson, pictured with club secretary Derek Wellman

PLAYERS’ Player Mark Batey, pictured with club secretary Derek Wellman

BRUCE Maltby with Mark Batey who won the Players’ Player trophy and the fielding cup

Follow local sport 24/7 on our website - www.lyme-online.co.uk

LymeOnline Sport

www.lyme-online.co.uk

September 3 2021

Friday, September 3 2021 24

SUPPORT THE SEASIDERS AT THE DAVEY FORT

Lyme Regis 1sts v Dawlish United Kick-off 3pm football

Contrasting fortunes for the Swallows

UPLYME and Lyme Regis Cricket Club celebrated their promotion to a higher division next season by staging a fancy dress mixed 20-over match, one of the highlights of which was LymeOnline editor Francesca Evans catching out club chairman Steve Batey in her cricketing debut. A barbecue was served and the presentation of trophies followed.

Full report with more photos on page 23

Tough start for Seasiders LIKE many other clubs, Lyme

By PHILIP EVANS Regis have been hit by a combination of injuries, COVID-19 and unavailability as the new ceded that the Seasiders played the football season gets underway. better football until the last third.

The Lyme first team were due to kick-off the new campaign with an away fixture at Dawlish United, but COVID put paid to that.

There was also a COVID scare at the Davey Fort, which led to Lyme Reserves’ first game being called off.

Last Saturday, the first team fielded a bare 11 players for their fixture at Lapford, the club that beat them in the Devon and Exeter Premier play-off at the end of last season.

They came away with a 3-1 defeat, but manager Julien Simier was pleased with how his side performed, especially in the second half when the Lapford manager con-

Lyme were two goals down at halftime, one of them a harsh penalty decision against Ben Turner.

Dan Rendell reduced the arrears midway through the second half.

Lyme created plenty of chances which they failed to convert and Lapford sealed the scoreline with a third goal.

Afterwards, Simier, who named Fred Parsons as his man-of-thematch, commented: “I can’t complain as we played really well.”

Tomorrow (Saturday) Lyme will face another stern test with Dawlish United, a side against which the Seasiders usually struggle, visiting the Davey Fort (kick-off 3pm).

■ Lyme Reserves got off to a very tricky start at home to Westexe Park Rangers from Tiverton in the Devon and Exeter League Division Three, losing 7-1 against a much stronger side. The Lyme goal was scored by Pete Peacock.

However, the Ressies hit back on Tuesday evening when they reversed the scoreline and beat Axmouth United 7-1.

Lyme went ahead in the first 30 seconds when Fred Parsons finished off a great move involving Robbie Fowler and Alex Rowe.

Goal number two came in the 16th minute when Jake Bearpark finished well after a good movement down the left.

Lyme were well on top and Dan Rendell, who joined the club last season, got his 11th goal when he put away a penalty with ease, given for

handball, to make it 3-0.

Axmouth pulled one back when a cross-cum-shot ricocheted off the head of Jake Bearpark which flew past the Lyme keeper Rob Harp, to make it 3-1.

Lyme were quick out the blocks 30 seconds after the start of the second half with Fred Parsons netting from close range from a Mark Bailey cross extending the lead to 4-1.

A screamer from Darius Pickering from 35 yards out, possibly the best goal in the game, made it 5-1 with Rendell getting number six from from a Tom Chapple cross before Robbie Fowler got his name on the score sheet at last when he slotted the ball home after a dash down the right wing to complete the 7-1 scoreline.

Tomorrow (Saturday) the Reserves are away to Devon Yeoman.

UPLYME 1st faced two games in four days with contrasting fortunes.

A near-full strength squad travelled to local neighbours Seaton 2nds and dominated from the first minute.

Cody Bowditch shone with a hat-trick, including a great dink over the keeper after a super ball through from Daley Holmes.

Oscar Sladen and Ben Prosser got in on the goals, as well as Oli Alner after brilliant interplay from Bowditch and Fin McLean. A 60 win didn’t flatter the visitors.

Saturday, however, saw the team missing ten of those in the Wednesday squad, due to the Bank Holiday weekend festival scene.

It was a day where everything went wrong, including injuries in the first 20 minutes to Ben Prosser and Alex Jones with Uplyme trailing 1-0 at the break to Falcons FC. The Swallows just didn’t have the luck and two defensive mixups led to a 3–0 loss.

Manager Steve Gillan said: “The squad was threadbare today – so desperate that I even had to play the full 90 minutes!

We didn’t get a single break of fortune, but this happens.

“Three-nil didn’t reflect our chances, but we couldn’t get a firm grip of the game once we lost Ben and Alex so early.”

Joint manager Pete Blandamer added: “We learned some valuable things and young Billy Gait looks very promising at centre back.”

Tomorrow (Saturday) Uplyme are at home to Devon Yeoman 2nds.

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

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