Marshwood+ October 2023

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© Colin Hopkins Photograph by Robin Mills

The best from West Dorset, South Somerset and East Devon No. 295 October 2023

COVER STORY Robin Mills met Colin “Hoppy” Hopkins in Chideock

’I

© Colin Hopkins Photograph by Robin Mills

was born in Bridport, and went to St Mary’s primary school near the old cattle market, then the comprehensive, although it was a grammar school for the first 6 months before it changed over. My father was a stonemason for Gundry’s until he got cancer, then he worked for Humphreys at Wyke’s Court, which is a car park now. Later on he worked at their DIY store in South Street. We lived in Parsonage Road.

I moved to Chideock in 1962. I worked for Stuart Warren at Hell Farm, contracting. I was a tractor and bulldozer driver, clearing sites and doing drainage work, but also did relief milking when the dairyman had a day off. Stuart was killed in an accident, when a bulldozer fell off a lorry, so I carried on working for his wife and son for another couple of years or so. Then I worked for another contractor, Gerald Glyde at Wootton.

It was then my first wife died, aged 21, of Hodgkins Disease, on Christmas Day, and I went a bit haywire. We had a daughter aged 10 months, and my mother looked after her. I had started to drink a bit, but I managed Tel. 01308 423031 The Marshwood Vale Magazine October 2023 3

Colin Hopkins to get a job on the motorways. We were building the M5 at Weston, and the money was way better than farm work, but it needed to be at that time for me. I was working for Costain’s, and one job I was involved with was the Flood Relief scheme in Cerne Abbas in the early eighties.

I married again, and have two sons from that marriage; Daniel, who has an electrical business, and Tom who has a stainless-steel business.

Unfortunately, the marriage didn’t last, and in 1986 Loraine and I got married. Her first husband was a mate of mine; they were both very good to me when my first wife died, so I’d known her for many years already, and we’ve been married now for 37 years.

Loraine and I ran the shop, Chideock Hill Stores, for 12 years.

We had a big paper round; in those days only certain shops were allowed to run one. We did all the caravan sites round here, Loraine would get the papers ready and I’d take them round. That meant early starts, and the only day off we had was Christmas Day. You would be surprised how many phone calls we had on Christmas Day—“I’m short of a pint of milk”, or more often, it was batteries for the new toys. In those days I knew everyone who lived in Chideock, but not now. And out towards North Chideock it was all fields belonging to the Manor, but now it’s mostly built on. We lived in a caravan while our house was being built. We’d bought the ground,

watched it being built, so I’ll have to be carried out feet first one day.

I’ve been involved with the Cider Shed since I first moved to Chideock.

The shed, which we call the cellar, is where we make the cider, and meet to drink it. Although we own the actual shed, it’s in a yard owned by the Manor, and we have all the apples from the Manor orchards.

When Charlie Weld sold the Manor to its present owner Mr Coates they agreed we should carry on as before.

We meet at the cellar on a Tuesday night, usually around 20 chaps, and Saturday and Sunday lunchtimes it’s open, when women come too. People can join if they’re asked to, or they can ask to join. We do the whole job, pruning the trees, picking up the apples as soon as they start to fall, and we’ll start pressing in October, carrying on until December. There are three orchards at the Manor, and we’ll get apples from a local farm as well as what people bring in from their gardens. We make around 2000 gallons a year, none of which is sold, otherwise we’d have to pay duty on it. Anyone who wants cider, for weddings or parties, will make a donation per barrel. The proceeds all go to charity, so we’ve raised a great deal of money over the years.

On Tuesdays, everyone attending will just put £2 in a pot for the bread and cheese. So, it’s not surprising we’re getting more and more members, considering what you have to pay in pubs today—and ours is the proper stuff.

4 The Marshwood Vale Magazine October 2023 Email info@marshwoodvale.com Tel. 01308 423031

When we’re picking up apples, whatever arrives at the shed that day goes in the press together, there’s no blending of varieties. To pulp the apples before pressing, my son made a chute in which we pre-chop the apples by hand, then feed them into a converted garden shredder. The pulp is then stacked in several cakes, which are layers of pulp wrapped in cloth, together called a cheese, in the press.

We use old camouflage nets for that - we used to use straw, but it’s been sprayed so many times these days it’s no good any more. Our press is at least 100 years old, hand operated with spanners about 8ft long. After leaving the juice to run overnight, we come back in the morning, re-fold the cheese, and tighten the press again. The juice is pumped into large fruit juice containers for the fermentation process, lasting about three months, then it’s pumped back into oak barrels in the cellar, and drawn off as needed.

I expect the Cider Shed’s been going 100 years or so. I took it on in 1962, and I can remember the old boys like Bill Bartlett, Reg Biles, Sid Clothier, Phil Barter, all long gone now, who taught me and the others the traditional methods of cider making. Our members now come from villages around the area, not just Chideock. I don’t think our methods have changed much, there’s nothing added but apples.

There’s enough natural yeast in the skins. Our cider varies in alcohol percentage, but we don’t measure it

© Colin Hopkins Photograph by Robin Mills

now; you just need to take a little care when drinking it.

Years ago, we measured it, but don’t bother now—we don’t sell it, so there’s no point. And if you start selling it, the fun’s gone. The interest in cider making in this area has increased no end in the last few years, and it’s great to see such a variety of local ciders available in pubs. At one time nearly every farm in this area would have made their own cider, from thousands of acres of orchards. It was part of a farm worker’s wages, and huge amounts were consumed, especially during busy times such as haymaking. In days gone by it was probably safer to drink than the water.

I’ve also been captain of our skittles team, the “CastOuts”, since 1962. I used to play with my father’s team. Then in the hard winter of ‘62, my mate Johnny Smith and I were walking through the snow to the farm where he worked, and he said why don’t we start a team of our own. There were 6 or 8 of us used to go down West Bay on bicycles for a pint, so that’s how we got together. Johnny said you can be captain, and I’ve been captain ever since. We’re playing at the Clock at the moment, as the George hasn’t got an alley. We used

to play at the Castle too, but most of the skittle alleys have been closed down now. I’m president of the Bridport league now. We used to have four men’s and two women’s leagues, now we only have two leagues, and the women are included with the men. We play during the autumn and winter, at alleys in Bridport, Wootton, and Loders as well as here in Chideock.

My daughter Caroline and her husband own the Foundry in Bridport and have a farm which their children run. My wife and I go to Melplash Show most years, and Dorchester, and I’ll go to farm sales for a look around, although under strict instructions not to bring anything back. I’ve always been a keen gardener.

I grow the vegetables and won a few prizes for them a few years ago at shows. Loraine does the flower borders.

The old ticker isn’t so good now. I had a heart operation—called an ablation—which lasted seven and a half hours. Loraine didn’t think I was coming out.

That was about 15 years ago, and I’m on tablets now, so I have to take things easy. But I’m still here, and that’s the main thing.

’

6 The Marshwood Vale Magazine October 2023 Email info@marshwoodvale.com Tel. 01308 423031

Tel. 01308 423031 The Marshwood Vale Magazine October 2023 7

UP FRONT Working with artists and makers over the years while they choose exhibitors for the Marshwood Arts Awards exhibition has always been a joy.

Artists such as John Hubbard, Philip Sutton, Tom Hammick and Dave White, sculptors like Emily Young and David Worthington, photographers such as Roger Mayne, Brian Griffin and Matilda Temperley and applied artists including John Makepeace and Harriet Wallace-Jones are just a few of the many professional creatives that have voluntarily given their time to help produce what is always a fascinating exhibition. What always stands out for me is their willingness to contribute to and promote the industry that they work in. This year, working with Sir Don McCullin, Kate Malone MBE, Mike Kus, Fru Tholstrup and Andrew Logan has been no different. Over the last couple of weeks, seeing them choose exhibitors for the show which opens at Bridport Arts Centre in October has been both fascinating and an honour. The combined efforts of both selectors and those selected never fails to bring a sense of hope and a lifting of the spirit. Kate Malone is again working on a campaign to allow thousands of young people to enjoy the benefits of pottery. Using the strapline; ‘The makers of today supporting the makers of tomorrow’ the ‘Firedup4’ charity project provides pottery studios, equipment and training at OnSide Youth Zones around the country. Instigated and led by Kate and now in its third year, the project was born from a passionate belief in the transformative power of creativity and its invaluable therapeutic benefits for the young. Kate believes that ‘every child, rich or poor, has potential within them’ and points out the value that creativity can bring to other subjects. ‘Creativity and hand skills need not make a world of artists’ she says. ‘It can make well-rounded individuals who can be creative in all subjects and feel empowered by the ability to create.’ By raising money to open pottery studios in youth zones she wants to help develop an environment where the opportunity to create can ‘draw out the spark that’s there within every child.’ To learn more visit www.firedup4.com.

Fergus Byrne

Published Monthly and distributed by Marshwood Vale Ltd Lower Atrim, Bridport Dorset DT6 5PX For all Enquiries Tel: 01308 423031 info@marshwoodvale. com

THIS MONTH

3 9 18 19 20

Cover Story By Robin Mills Event News and Courses News & Views Nature Studies By Michael McCarthy The R Word: regen By Dr Sam Rose

24 24 26 28

House & Garden Vegetables in October By Ashley Wheeler October in the Garden By Russell Jordan Property Round Up By Helen Fisher

30 30

Food & Dining Partridge on Yorkshire Toast with Elderberries

By Mark Hix

32 Arts & Entertainment 32 From Peggy Sue to Glengarry Glen Ross

By Fanny Charles 34 Galleries 38 Preview By Gay Pirrie Weir 44 Screen Time By Nic Jeune 45 Young Lit Fix By Nicky Mathewson

46 Health & Environment 46

Services & Classified

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Editorial Director Fergus Byrne

Contributors

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Fanny Charles Helen Fisher Mark Hix Nic Jeune Russell Jordan Michael McCarthy

Victoria Byrne

Design

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8 The Marshwood Vale Magazine October 2023 Email info@marshwoodvale.com Tel. 01308 423031

Nicky Mathewson Robin Mills Gay Pirrie Weir Dr Sam Rose Ashley Wheeler

The views expressed in The Marshwood Vale Magazine and People Magazines are not necessarily those of the editorial team. Unless otherwise stated, Copyright of the entire magazine contents is strictly reserved on behalf of the Marshwood Vale Magazine and the authors.

Disclaimer: Whilst every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of dates, event information and advertisements, events may be cancelled or event dates may be subject to alteration. Neither Marshwood Vale Ltd nor People Magazines Ltd can accept any responsibility for the accuracy of any information or claims made by advertisers included within this publication.

NOTICE TO ADVERTISERS Trades descriptions act 1968. It is a criminal offence for anyone in the course of a trade or business to falsely describe goods they are offering. The Sale of Goods Act 1979 and the Supply of Goods and Services Act 1982. The legislation requires that items offered for sale by private vendors must be ‘as described’. Failure to observe this requirement may allow the purchaser to sue for damages.

Road Traffic Act. It is a criminal offence for anyone to sell a motor vehicle for use on the highway which is unroadworthy.

October

EVENTS AND COURSES 26 September

Lunchtime Concert Maria and friends (soprano, piano, violin, ‘cello) entertain with popular classics and songs St. Andrew’s Church, Charmouth. 12:30 with light refreshments from 12:00.

Free entry donations welcome. 01297 560681 Scottish Country dancing at Horton Village Hall Nr Ilminster TA19 9QR every Tuesday evening from 7.30 to 9.30 pm with break for refreshments. Pay on the door £3.00 per evening. For further information contact Anita on 01460 929383 email anitaandjim22@ gmail.com or visit our web site at www.ashillscd.wordpress.com. All welcome.

Bridport U3A Colin Varndell - Close Encounters. United Church on East Street, Bridport at 2pm. Free to members and £3 to visitors.

27 September

East Devon Ramblers Woodland and reservoir 9 miles walk.

10.00am. Near Dunsford. Telephone 07954-401802 Bridport Scottish Dancers meet at Church House, South Street, Bridport, DT6 3NN. 7.15 for a 7.30 start. £3.00 which includes tea/coffee and soft drinks + biscuits. Newcomers first evening is free. Contact: Malcolm on 07790 323343. Check out bridportscottishdancers for more information.

29 September

Ladies in Jazz: Annika Skoogh + Ian Ellis & The Craig Milverton Trio. Concert starts 19:30, bar available. Ilminster Arts Centre, TA19 0AN. Tickets: £20 (free to 12 and unders. Students £5).

To book: 01460 54973. https://www.ilminsterartscentre.com/ performances East Devon Ramblers. Honey, Bees and Trees 5 miles moderate walk. 10.00am. Near Honiton. Telephone 01297-24312 From Devon With Love Festival A dance theatre double bill.

Infinite Ways Home - Richard Chappell Dance. Splodge by Vicki Horan & Sonia Thakurdesai. 7pm at Stockland Village Hall EX14 9EF. Adults £10 and Children 7yrs+ Free but please book a seat for them on: https://villagesinaction.co.uk/performances/fromdevon-with-love-dance/

30 September

BlimeyOhRiley plus support from Potts & Jammin. 8pm The Beehive Honiton www.beehivehoniton.co.uk 01404 384050.

Close A very touching and moving Belgium film about the intense friendship of two teenage boys that is threatened by the pressure of classmates. 7.30pm, Ilminster Warehouse Theatre. Go to www. cinemaatthewarehouse.co.uk to join. Guests: £5.

Bridport & West Dorset Rambling Club 7 mile walk from Charminster. For further information please ring 01308 898484 or 01308 863340.

1 October

East Devon Ramblers Tracks and lanes 9.5 miles moderate walk.

10.00am. Staple Hill plantation. Telephone 07812-433184 ‘Matthew Bourne’s Swan Lake’(PG) Gateway Theatre, Seaton - screening – 2pm, doors at 1.30pm, tickets adults £15, Under 16s £8. Tickets from 01297 625699, www.thegatewayseaton.co.uk or in person Tue - Thur 10am - 1pm.

2 October

An evening of Scottish Dancing at Chardstock Village Hall 7.30 - 10.00 p.m. Tea and coffee provided but please bring your own mug. No partner required. Cost £3.00 Contact David on 01460 65981 www.chardscottishdancingclub.org Hawkchurch Film Nights in association with Devon Moviola, proudly presents ‘The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry’ (104 mins, Cert. 12 - infrequent strong language, drug misuse, suicide, moderate sex references). Doors open 6.30pm, film starts 7.00pm at Hawkchurch Village Hall, EX13 5XD. Ticket reservations £5.50 from csma95@gmail.com or leave a message on 01297 678176 (socially-distanced seating available if reserved in advance); tickets also available for £5.50 from Hawkchurch Community Shop or £6.00 on the door (cash only). Subtitles for the hard-of-hearing provided. Home-made cake and other delicious refreshments available.

Winsham Art Club 2 pm at Jubilee Hall TA20 4HU. This practical session is a group painting project. It is a 2.5 hr. session led by a visiting tutor. Small friendly group of mixed abilities. Members £5, non-members £7. Annual membership £15. All welcome.

Contact: Email : elfridevaughan@gmail.com for further details.

Modern Jive (Leroc) Social Dance Classes 7:30pm, Chideock Village Hall. £6 per person, Come with or without a partner.

Beginners and Returners Welcome Every Week. www.dynamicdance.uk. Also 9th, 16th, 23rd and 30th October.

2 - 28 October

Cards for Good Causes - the multi-charity Christmas card shop is returning to Axminster, Axminster Heritage Centre, Silver Street, Axminster EX13 5AH. Mondays to Fridays 10 am - 4 pm, Saturdays 10 am - 1 pm.

3 October

Scottish Country dancing at Horton village Hall Nr Ilminster TA19 9QR every Tuesday evening from 7.30 to 9.30 pm with break for refreshments. Please wear soft , flat , comfy shoes if possible.

Pay on the door £3.00 per evening. For further information contact Anita on 01460 929383 email anitaandjim22@gmail.com or visit our web site at www.ashillscd.wordpress.com All welcome.

4 October

East Devon Ramblers Blackdown Delight 11 miles moderate walk. 10.30am. Smeatharpe. Telephone 07771-935117 West Dorset Music Community Orchestra rehearsal from 6-30 p.m. to 7-45 p.m. in the Christian Fellowship hall, East Street car park (far end ), Bridport DT6 3QE. First half term is free for new members. Regular concerts. Contact 01308 456297. Website www. westdorsetmusic.org.uk

5 October

Lyme Regis Museum Friends illustrated talk, ‘Bodmin Barracks and the Duke of Cornwall’s Light Infantry’ by Fran Singleton at 2.30 pm in the Woodmead Hall, Hill Road, Lyme Regis DT7 3PG. Fran is the Assistant Curator at Bodmin Museum. Bodmin Keep is more than 160 years old and is the historic home of the army in Cornwall. Members £2 visitors £4. Enquiries to David Cox 01297 443156.

Tel. 01308 423031 The Marshwood Vale Magazine October 2023 9

October

EVENTS AND COURSES Tatworth flower club have their AGM at 2pm. To follow Julia Harrison is to give us a talk afterwards titled ‘Down Under’. Non members £6. For enquiries, Julie Kettle 01934248536.

Solo Charleston and Vintage Jazz Dance Classes - 1-2pm, St Marys Church Hall Bridport - Class for all levels and abilities - £5 All Welcome www.dynamic-dance.uk. Also 12th & 19th October.

Folk dancing at Combe St Nicholas village hall (TA20 3LT) on at 1930 hrs. Music will be provided by Jeroka and the caller is to be confirmed for the evening. It’s £4.00 per person which includes a cuppa and cake, all welcome and it is a lot of fun! Further details from Elaine on 01460 65909.

Scottish Country Dancing St Michael’s Scottish Country Dancing Club, 7.30 – 9.30pm at the Davis Hall, West Camel BA22 7QX. First two visits free, £2.00 per session, £1.50 for members. www. stmichaelsscdclub.org or contact 07972125617 elspeth_a_wright@ hotmail.com. Also 12th, 19th, 26th.

Mrs Harris goes to Paris (2022, UK, PG, 111 mins, Dir: Anthony Fabian). Doors 7:00 pm, 7:30 pm start. Clapton & Wayford Village Hall (TA18 8PS).). Membership £25, guests £5 per film. For more details, contact mickpwilson53@btinternet.com or ring Mick Wilson on 01460 74849 or Di Crawley on 01460 30508.

6 October

Bach and Trevelyan We welcome Emmanuel Bach and Julian Trevelyan to the West Country on violin and piano. Promoted

by Concerts in the West. Ilminster Arts Centre, TA19 0AN. Concert starts 19:30, bar available. Tickets: £18 (free to 12 and unders. Students £5). To book: 01460 54973. https://www. ilminsterartscentre.com/performances ‘The Secret Kingdom’ (PG) Gateway Theatre, Seaton, Family Picnic Night screening – 7pm, doors 6pm, Tickets adults £7.50, Under 16s £6.50. Hidden beneath two siblings’ bedroom floor lies a land of enchantment in need of protection from an ancient enemy. They soon face epic challenges as they embark on a quest to unite five mystical treasures and save the kingdom. Tickets from 01297 625699, www.thegatewayseaton.co.uk or in person Tue Thur 10am - 1pm.

East Devon Ramblers Coffee on the beach, 6 miles moderate walk. 10.00am. Seaton. Telephone 01297-552860

7 October

Benny Vibes Again Music of Benny Goodman and Lionel Hampton featuring Frank Griffith, Roger Beaujolais, Guy Gardner, Ben Taylor and Andy Chapman 7.30 Bridport Arts Centre. www. bridport-arts.com.

Dorset Chamber Orchestra Autumn Concert Mozart Overture The Impresario, Bruch Violin Concerto, soloist Elise Griffin, Brahms Serenade No. 1 7.30pm St Mary’s Church, Edward Rd, Dorchester DT1 2HL www.dorsetchamberorchestra.org Uplyme and Lyme Regis Horticultural Society Autumn Show and Coffee Morning. Uplyme Village Hall 10am -12 noon.

Informal show with public voting. Free to all. Schedule and more information www.ulrhs.wordpress.com Turn Lyme Green Talk “Bathing Water Quality - Past, Present & Future” Dr. Keith Jones will describe how the quality of bathing

water is measured. With years of experience as a microbiologist, he will illustrate how testing is done - both in & out of the bathing season. 7 for 7.15pm at the Driftwood Cafe, Baptist Church,top of Broad Street, Lyme Regis, DT7 3NY. FREE Event. Refreshments available. Contact www.turnlymegreen.co.uk or 10297 446066 Bridport & West Dorset Rambling Club 7.5 mile walk from Coney’s Castle. For further information please ring 01308 898484.

Living Mindfully through Art & Nature (Sue Howse & Ali Tebbs). Sat. Oct 7th 10-4 pm (£50) at the Othona Community.

01308 89713

8 October

‘Royal Opera House: L’Elisir D’Amore’ (12A) Gateway Theatre, Seaton, Matinee screening – 2pm, doors 1.30pm, Tickets Adults £15, Under 16s £8. Country boy Nemorino is determined to win the haughty Adina’s heart, but she refuses to give him the time of day. Can Doctor Dulcamara’s so-called ‘elixir of love’ work its magic? Conductor Sesto Quatrini makes his house debut, as does soprano Nadine Sierra in the role of Adina. Sung in Italian with English subtitles. A co-production with Opéra national de Paris. Tickets from 01297 625699, www.thegatewayseaton.co.uk or in person Tue - Thur 10am - 1pm.

Firelight Trio Drimpton Village Hall, DT8 3RF The Scottish Trio return to Dorset, following last year’s acclaimed performances, courtesy of Artsreach, the county’s rural arts charity. With driving Fiddle, the gorgeous Nyckelharpa and Accordion, the trio play European folk music including Swedish polskas, Scottish reels, French waltzes and to-tapping klezmer. Tickets: £12 Adults, £5 under 18 or £30 family in advance from www.artsreach.co.uk or call Francesca Hurrell on 07771 554601. Bar and Refreshments available. Show starts 19.30.

9 October

An evening of Scottish Dancing at Chardstock Village Hall 7.30- 10.00 p.m. Tea and coffee provided but please bring your own mug. No partner required. Cost £3.00 For more information contact David on 01460 65981 www.chardscottishdancingclub.org A presentation by Rosemary Legrand on “Spring in Japan”.

This will take place at the WI Hall in North Street, Bridport at 2.30 pm. visitors £5. For further details please contact the secretary on 01308 456339.

WomanSpeak - Broadwindsor 2hr Introduction Class - Join us for a first hand experience of what WomanSpeak is all about. A female centric speaking, communication and confidence building program. You will have an opportunity to experience a unique formula of techniques and philosophy. Such as, The art of listening ; Learning to speak your truth on stage, in relationships, in groups at the dinner table, with friends….everywhere ; Finding internal safety ; Embodiment practices ; Delving into your values and beliefs ; Harnessing your message. 9.30 - 11.30 Comrades Hall DT8 3QP £15 / £10 con. Pay online or come on the day. Learn more about WomanSpeak at www.megansimson.com 07379747301

9 - 10 October

And Breathe…Bridport the new community event to celebrate World Mental Health Day in West Dorset. The Burrough Harmony

10 The Marshwood Vale Magazine October 2023 Email info@marshwoodvale.com Tel. 01308 423031

Tel. 01308 423031 The Marshwood Vale Magazine October 2023 11

October

EVENTS AND COURSES Centre is working in partnership with local health and wellbeing organisations and community groups to put on two days of creative workshops, music, film, art and nature activities plus exercise, information stands and talks. There will be something for everyone! This event promoting community and individual wellbeing brings together opportunities for people to explore new ways of improving their health and wellbeing. And Breathe...

Bridport will culminate with a finale show called Exhale, at the Electric Palace headlined by Isaiah Dreads and the Skalatans Plus fresh from Bestival Ladies of the Lawn and some spoken word.

Get your tickets early from the Electric Palace website or call in at the Tourist Information Centre. Ticket costs are £10 or £5 concessions

10 October

Scottish Country dancing at Horton village Hall Nr Ilminster TA19 9QR every Tuesday evening from 7.30 to 9.30 pm with break for refreshments. Please wear soft , flat , comfy shoes if possible.

Pay on the door £3.00 per evening. For further information contact Anita on 01460 929383 email anitaandjim22@gmail.com or visit our web site at www.ashillscd.wordpress.com All welcome.

Parkinson’s Lyme Regis District Support Group Meeting We welcome anyone from the Lyme Regis, Axminster, Charmouth or Seaton area living with Parkinson’s to come along and share anecdotes, ideas and wisdom in an informal, friendly environment.

Complimentary refreshments. 2pm - 3.30pm at the Lyme Regis Powerboat Club, Monmouth Beach, Lyme Regis DT7 3LE. For more information email lymepdhelp@gmail.com.

Broker by Hirokazu Kore-eda In the South Korean city of Busan, a woman leaves her infant outside a church near the “baby box”, there to collect abandoned children. An unexpectedly sweet film. Kore-eda brings a gentle humanity and playfulness to stories that might otherwise be unbearably grim. (English Subtitles).

7.45pm. Bridport Film Society at Bridport Arts Centre. Members and guests (£5)

11 October

East Devon Ramblers Kilmington and Shute 7 miles moderate walk. 10.00am. Telephone 07966-451875 West Dorset Music Community Orchestra rehearsal from 6-30 p.m. to 7-45 p.m. in the Christian Fellowship hall, East Street car park (far end ), Bridport DT6 3QE. First half term is free for new members. Regular concerts. Contact 01308 456297. Website www. westdorsetmusic.org.uk

11 - 12 October

Phantom of the Open (12A) showing at Kilmington Community Cinema (EX13 7RF). This uproariously brisk new comedy tells the strange-but-true story of Maurice Flitcroft, a shipyard craneoperator from Barrow-in-Furness who bluffed his way into the 1976 British Open golf championship. Doors open 6.45 film starts 7.15 on Wednesday. Matinee on Thursday doors open 1.45pm film starts 2pm, advance booking required for this matinee, cream-teas served during the interval but must be pre-booked with your seats @ £3.50. Pre-booked seat tickets @ £5 or £5.50 on the door,

booking essential for the matinee. Tickets can be pre-booked by email: wattsjohn307@gmail.com or Tel: 01297 639758 see www.kilmingtonvillage.com/other-organisations.html for more information.

12 October

‘My Big Fat Greek Wedding 3’ (12A)- Gateway Theatre, Seaton, Matinee screening, 2pm, doors 1pm, tickets £5. From writer and director Nia Vardalos, the worldwide phenomenon My Big Fat Greek Wedding is coming back to theaters with a brand-new adventure. Join the Portokalos family as they travel to a family reunion in Greece for a heartwarming and hilarious trip full of love, twists and turns. Opa! Tickets from 01297 625699, www. thegatewayseaton.co.uk or in person Tue - Thur 10am - 1pm.

Chesil Bank Writing Shed Do you write? Would you like to be a writer? Whatever you want to write why not come and learn with our creative writing group. New writers always welcome. 7pm 9pm, Portesham Village Hall. Find out more by calling Linda on 01305 871802.

Seaton garden club at 2.30p.m. Masonic Lodge Seaton. A talk by, Paul Bygrave, Head nurseryman at Forde Abbey. Plants at The Abbey.

Charity Angels Dorchester Fashion Show a unique fashion show, fundraising for Against Breast Cancer charity. All models will be local women who have personal experience of breast cancer and featuring independent retailers who will be showcasing their new autumn/winter collections, 6pm - 9pm, The Victorian Hall at the Dorset Museum, High West Street, Dorchester DT1 1XA, Tickets: £25 including sparkling wine and canapes. To book: https:// tinyurl.com/Charity-Angels-UK-Dorchester. Contact jane@ charityangels.co.uk Chard History Goup History of the Russian Revolution by Matt Rendel 7.15pm The Pheonix Hotel, upstairs for info. 07984481634 Preparations for D Day Decimalisation, an amusing talk by Sandra Brown. 2.30pm, Bridport WI Hall, North Street. In support of Bridport Millennium Green. £5/members £4 to include tea and biscuit. Raffle. More details 01308 423078.

Chard Royal Naval Association The members will be holding their official meeting at 7.30pm in the Chard Cricket Club.

13 October

East Devon Branch, Devonshire Association Conservation in action - Sustainable breeding at the National Marine Aquarium; The NMA in Plymouth is the UK’s largest aquarium and is home to the Ocean Conservation Trust. The Trust is dedicated to conserving our oceans and helping people feel more connected to them through a variety of activities, including contributing to major global breeding programmes. Freyja Thomson-Alberts will highlight some notable success stories at Plymouth with elasmobranchs, especially sharks and rays. If you want to know more, please come along to find out; 2.30pm, Manor Pavilion Theatre Sidmouth EX10 8RP; Part of Sidmouth Science Festival; Admission £3; contact James Baldwin 01297 23045 or edevon.

East Devon Ramblers Good luck 5 miles leisurely walk. 10.00am.

Newton Poppleford. Telephone 07540-048787

12 The Marshwood Vale Magazine October 2023 Email info@marshwoodvale.com Tel. 01308 423031

‘Angel Headed Hipster: The Songs of Marc Bolan & T Rex’ (12A), Gateway Theatre, Seaton -.

Picnic Night screening. 7.30pm, doors 6.30pm, tickets adults £7.50, Under 16s £6.50. AngelHeaded Hipster is the first documentary to explore the creation and interpretation of the Music and Lyrics of Marc Bolan, who died at the age of 29 in 1977. Using archival performances, interviews with Bolan, and filmed interpretations by artists such as Nick Cave, John Cameron Mitchell, Joan Jett, U2, Lucinda Williams, Father John Misty & others, this documentary creates an exuberant and thoughtful celebration of a true original; Glam Rock pioneer, gender-bending free spirit and explorer of punk and soul music with his last partner musician Gloria Jones. Illuminated with interviews by his great friend David Bowie, Ringo Starr, Elton John and many more. Tickets from 01297 625699, www. thegatewayseaton.co.uk or in person Tue - Thur 10am 1pm.

Tim Eyles’ Mardi Gras Tim Eyles’ “Mardi Gras” is a jazz group led by Tim on vocals with backing from guitar, double bass, drums and reeds, playing a selection of New Orleans to jump jive and spirituals. Tonight they will be joined by special guest Craig Milverton on piano. Concert starts 19:30, bar available. Ilminster Arts Centre, TA19 0AN. Tickets: £18 (free to 12 and unders.

Students £5). To book: 01460 54973. https://www. ilminsterartscentre.com/performances sec@devonassoc. org.uk

13 - 14 October

Gilda Cruz; classical piano The Brazilian pianist

EVENTS IN NOVEMBER Live or Online send your event details to info@marshwoodvale.com

BY OCTOBER 13th Tel. 01308 423031 The Marshwood Vale Magazine October 2023 13

October

EVENTS AND COURSES Gilda Oswaldo Cruz will be playing for us in Tincleton. She lives in Portugal and will be flying in from Lisbon especially for us. The same programme is on both evenings featuring JS Bach, Robert Schumann, Josef Haydn, Claudio Santoro, and Frederic Chopin.

Gilda Oswaldo Cruz has played chamber music in Spain, Portugal and France in concerts with the Catalan cellist Josep Bassal and the Swiss percussionist Martin Hug. She has taught courses at the Universidade de Campinas and at the Musik Hochschule in Stuttgart and has recorded several CDs. Tincleton Gallery, The Old School House, Tincleton, nr Dorchester, DT2 8QR Opening / performance times: doors open 19:30; concert starts 20:00. £15. m01305 848 909. http://www.tincletongallery.com

14 October

Chard Royal Naval Association The branch will be meeting at 7.30 pm at the Chard Cricket club Dening Field Zimbard lane for a talk given by the Area 4 RNA Chaplin on the Cross of Coventry Cathedral and its association with the current Royal Navy. Anyone wishing to attend this function would be made most welcome.

Further details can be obtained on 07929291401.

Yarcombe Village Market 10-12noon at The Yarcombe Village Hall, fantastic local produce – cakes, plants, pies and pasties, honey, locally produced meat, fresh farm eggs, beautiful pottery, crafts and much more…come and have a browse and enjoy a coffee and cake.

Enquiries 07858625421 The Friends of Weymouth Library (F.O.W.L.) speaker will be John Stockley, who talks about his upbringing in Weymouth as the child of an African-American G.I. and English mother. He will describe his search for his American relatives, which was filmed for television. John’s reminiscences are always heartfelt and entertaining. The talk begins at 10-30 a.m.; all are welcome.

Refreshments will be provided. Tickets are available at the Library; £2 for members and £3 for non-members; telephone 01305 762410.

Handbell Concert Chiselborough 4-in-hand team , with Cilla&Bill Caswell (flute&piano) at South Petherton Parish Church. 2.30pm.

Tea&cake. Raffle. Free entry- donations invited , to be shared between the Church and St. Margaret’s Hospice.

‘Murder Mystery Picnic Night with Moonstone Theatre Co: The Reading of the Will’ - Gateway Theatre, Seaton – 7.15pm, doors 6.30pm, tickets £13.50. Age 12+ Tickets from 01297 625699, www. thegatewayseaton.co.uk or in person Tue - Thur 10am - 1pm. Join us for a Murder Mystery Picnic Night with Moonstone Theatre Company. Bring along your picnic and follow the action and see if you can work out who the killer is? It is 1935. Felix Abercrombie, a retired wealthy businessman, has died and his family and friends have been called together for a celebration of his life at a Picnic Night at the Gateway Theatre in Seaton, and for the reading of his Will. Tickets from 01297 625699, www.thegatewayseaton.co.uk or in person Tue - Thur 10am - 1pm.

An Introduction to Authentic Relating Authentic Relating is a set of simple yet profound practices and skills which help us have more open and vulnerable connections with others and also with ourselves. Nichola, who is group facilitator and therapist, has done

a number of courses with https://authenticrelating.co and wants to share! 2.30-5pm Quaker Meeting House, Bridport Cost £10.

To book Nichola Motley 07884 191459 or njm11@btinternet.com Climate Cafe, Seaton A respectful space where you can express your feelings about climate breakdown. A chance to talk safely and informally about what it means for you, and listen to others’ experiences. 10.30am - 12 noon, at Natural Worx Café, The Square, Seaton, EX12 2JZ. Contact Fiona Anderson fiona.anderson.01@ gmail.com Fiona Anderson fiona.anderson.01@gmail.com 07764 335426 Chris Walker’s Pedigree Jazz Band Dalwood Jazz Club 3pm.

With Chris Walker - clarinet, Andy Chislett- trumpet, Tony Mann - trombone, John Noddings - banjo/guitar, Mike Bennett- double bass, Sy Gorelick - drums Dalwood Village Hall EX13 7EG (near Axminster) Bar for beer/wine/soft drinks and teas/coffees etc.

Parking at the Village Hall. £12.50p If possible, please book in advance and pay at the door. info: t.mackenney111@btinternet. com

15 October

French + Breton Folk Dance (Bal Crewkerne) with live house band, in the Speedwell Hall, Abbey Street, Crewkerne, TA18 7HY. Dance workshop for beginners 6-7pm followed by main dance 7-9.30pm. Admission £4 at the door. Tea and coffee available.

Free parking in the town centre car parks. More information on our website: https://balcrew.wixsite.com/balcrewkerne David Mynne – Canterbury Tales This is Chaucer... but not as you think you know it! Touring Dorset with Artsreach. Suitable for ages 12+. Unsuitable for serious scholars of middle-English.

Contains mild swearing and comic sexual reference. www.artsreach. co.uk Tickets are £12 (U18:£5 and family: £30) from Artsreach. co.uk and tel 01297 560948 Bar and raffle for the hall. 7.30, doors open 6.30 East Devon Ramblers Exploring new paths 8 miles leisurely walk. 10.30am. Budleigh Salterton. Telephone 07772-069940 Divine Union Soundbath 2pm Bridport Unitarians, 49 East St, Bridport, Dorset DT6 3JX Please book in advance 01935 38965 ahiahel@live.com £15.

Nigel Price/Lorne Lofsky jazz Quartet a rare opportunity to hear the Canadian jazz guitarist (played with Chet Baker, Oscar Peterson, Joey DeFrancesco and Ed Bickert.) with Nigel, supported by Ashley John Long and Winston Clifford. 7.30pm Chardstock Community Hall EX13 7BJ. Tickets £10.00. To reserve tickets and pay on the door contact Richard Llewelyn 07440221329 or Richard.llewelyn@outlook.com

16 October

An evening of Scottish Dancing at Chardstock Village Hall 7.30 - 10.00 p.m. Tea and coffee provided but please bring your own mug. No partner required. Cost £3.00 For more information contact David on 01460 65981 www.chardscottishdancingclub. org.

Winsham Art Club 2 pm at Jubilee Hall TA20 4HU. The theme of this practical session is Exploring Abstraction. It is a 2.5 hr. session led by a visiting tutor. Small friendly group of mixed

14 The Marshwood Vale Magazine October 2023 Email info@marshwoodvale.com Tel. 01308 423031

abilities. Members £5, non-members £7. Annual membership £15.

All welcome. Contact: Email : elfridevaughan@gmail.com for further details.

“Sixty years on - Remembering the Consul” by maritime historian Richard Clammer. Teas from 2.00 pm and talk starts at 2.30 pm in Hope URC, Trinity Street, Weymouth, DT4 8TW. Tickets at the door: £2 for members of ‘Friends of Weymouth Museum’, £3 for non-members.

17 October

Scottish Country dancing at Horton village Hall Nr Ilminster TA19 9QR every Tuesday evening from 7.30 to 9.30 pm with break for refreshments. Please wear soft , flat , comfy shoes if possible.

Pay on the door £3.00 per evening. For further information contact Anita on 01460 929383 email anitaandjim22@gmail.com or visit our web site at www.ashillscd.wordpress.com All welcome.

18 October

East Devon Ramblers Mid-Devon Hills 10 miles moderate walk.

10.00am. Bampton Telephone 01395-516897.

Coffee Morning including cakes, scones & savouries, and bacon/ egg rolls (made to order), 10.30am – noon; all welcome. Clapton & Wayford Village Hall. More details from Julia (01460 72769).

‘The Answer is in the Soil’ talk by David Usher. Colyford Memorial Hall, start 7.30pm. Members free, guests £3. Contact Sue Price 01297 552362.

The Shanty Sessions Marine Theatre, Lyme Regis. Ahoy there!

Join local Shanty Men, The Chantry Buoys, in an informal performance of sea shanties and other well known songs of the sea. Free entry, with the licenced bar available, from 7.15. So come along for a good time, the Buoys start at 7.30pm.

West Dorset Music Community Orchestra rehearsal from 6-30

p.m. to 7-45 p.m. in the Christian Fellowship hall, East Street car park (far end ), Bridport DT6 3QE. First half term is free for new members. Regular concerts. Contact 01308 456297. Website www. westdorsetmusic.org.uk

19 October

The Bridport & District Gardening Club meeting is at 7.30pm at the W I Hall North Street Bridport when Charles Chesshire will give a talk on Japanese Gardens. Charles is a designer, author and nurseryman. He has worked in many countries before setting up the nursery ‘Rare & Special Plants in Symondsbury. He has designed Morton Hall Gardens and has been a consultant to Sudeley Castle and Sezincote Gardens. He is working on plans for the restoration for Lydney Park in Gloucestershire..He has written several books including Japanese Gardens, Clematis and Flowering Shrubs Non members are welcome to join our meetings for a fee of £2.00 and more information about the club is available on the club website www.bridportgardeneingclub.co.uk South Somerset RSPB Local Group Saving Nature in the West Country – Simon Stennett at 7.30pm The Millennium Hall, Seavington St. Mary, Ilminster, TA19 0QH. Entry: Group members £4, non-group members £5, under 18’s £1. Tea/coffee & biscuits included – Wheelchair access. Further details from Denise Chamings on 01460240740 or www.rspb.org.uk/groups/ southsomerset. Everyone welcome.

20 October

Budapest Café Orchestra play a blistering barrage of traditional folk and gypsy-flavoured music plus their own unique reimaginings of some of the biggest tunes ever written by the classical greats. Hugely entertaining, immense skill and profound musicianship - get ready for an amazing show! Concert starts 19:30,

Tel. 01308 423031 The Marshwood Vale Magazine October 2023 15

October

EVENTS AND COURSES bar available. Ilminster Arts Centre, TA19 0AN. Tickets: £24 (free to 12 and unders. Students £5). To book: 01460 54973. https:// www.ilminsterartscentre.com/performances Beaminster Public Hall annual fundraising quiz for the Yarn Barton Centre (reg’d charity); 7.00 for 7.30pm, six people per team (max), tickets £10pp (including supper) on sale at YBC, tel: 01308 862715.

East Devon Ramblers Up Up And Away, 6 miles moderate walk.

10.00am. Axmouth. Telephone 01297-552860 ‘Haunted Mansion’ (12A) – Gateway Theatre, Seaton – Picnic Night screening 7.30pm, doors 6.30pm, tickets adults £7.50, Under 16s £6.50. Tickets from 01297 625699, www.thegatewayseaton. co.uk or in person Tue - Thur 10am - 1pm.

An evening of entertainment with Bridport Broadsides male sea shanty group. 7.30pm, Bridport Town Hall. In support of Bridport Millennium Green. £9/£8 members to include glass of wine. Raffle. More details Sandra 01308 423078.

Ticket to Paradise at 7.30pm Village Hall, The Causeway, Milborne St Andrew DT11 0JX Doors and bar open 7.00 Tickets cost £6, which includes a drink or an ice-cream. David and Georgia, two divorced parents who can’t stand each other, head to Bali after their daughter, Lily, announces her plans to marry a local islander she just met while on holiday. They decide to put aside their differences and work together to stop the wedding, believing that doing so will keep Lily from making a dreadful mistake similar to their own. Julia Roberts and George Clooney.

21 October

Chard Royal Naval Association The chard branch will be celebrating Trafalgar Day when they attend the Annual Trafalgar Night dinner at Hornsbury Mill. Further details can be obtained on 07929291401.

Parnham voices performing a collection of choral works and pieces to mark the 400th anniversary of William Byrd. At Nicholas church, Abbotsbury, 3-4pm eventbrite.co.uk to book, tickets may also be available on door.

Leigh Coleman Quintet - Jazz Supper The sensational Leigh Coleman celebrates the legendary jazz singers recorded by the iconic Blue Note Records. Ticket availability is limited and includes a two-course supper. Booking essential. 7.00pm, The Gateway Theatre, The Town Hall, Fore St, Seaton EX12 2LD. More: www. jazzjurassica.co.uk Bridport & West Dorset Rambling Club 8 mile walk from Athelhampton House. For further information please ring 01308 898484.

‘Jazz Jurassica present Leigh Coleman Quintet Jazz Supper Gateway Theatre, Seaton - Live music and supper – doors 6.15pm, supper 7pm, tickets £3.50 includes 2 course supper. One of the country’s best male jazz singers, Leigh Coleman, brings his A-list band to pay homage to the legendary Blue Note record label. Join him on a musical journey to hear some of the most iconic voices in jazz, both past and present. From Billie Holiday to Gregory Porter, from Sarah Vaughan to Norah Jones and from Jamie Cullum to Cassandra Wilson. Tickets from 01297 625699, www. thegatewayseaton.co.uk or in person Tue - Thur 10am - 1pm.

The Taunton Deane Male Voice Choir Martock Church; TA12 6JL Performance time: 7:30pm Admission fee: Tickets: £12 or £10 (U-16 free) at Guardianstickets@gmail.com /07547 213992/Martock Gallery/ Martock Newsagent (CASH ONLY) Website:www.martockonline.co.uk/events; https://www. tauntondeanemvc.com/about-us Beginners Sewing Workshop Come and learn new techniques on your sewing machine. Make a multi pocketed fabric container or similar project. Bring your own fabric or purchase in class. This is a small friendly group. 10 am until 2 pm cost £18. At the United Reformed Church Hall, Chard Street, Axminster. To book a place contact : gina.youens@btinternet.com

22 October

Chard Royal Naval Association Further to having had dinner the night before the association members will be attending a Trafalgar service at St Thomas Church, Cricket St Thomas for 10 am followed by coffee/tea/cake at Cricket St Thomas golf club.

Anyone wishing to attend the service will be made welcome and would find it a little different from all other Sunday services in a beautiful local church.(communion is held during the service).

‘A Celebration of Singing and Friendship’ A concert by the acapella singing group Wessex Women to mark their 30th Anniversary, with special guests Bosom Friends. 2.30pm in the Parish Church, South Petherton. Tea and cake.

Donations in aid of Ukraine and Church funds.

Axe Vale Orchestra with Hetty Christopher is delighted to be presenting a concert in Seaton. Hetty has just performed in the Royal Albert Hall in the National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain’s BBC Prom. You may have seen her on television. She will play the wonderful Hummel Trumpet Concerto. Local interest is also present in well-known Gordon Langford’s Axminster Overture. Mendelssohn’s lively Symphony No 1 concludes the programme. Seaton Gateway (the old town hall) is the venue, the concert starting at 3.00pm. Tickets at £12, students free, are available from www.axevaleorchestra.co.uk, Owl and Pyramid Bookshop, Seaton or on the door. Do come and share this very special occasion with us!

East Devon Ramblers Five Common Circuit 9 miles moderate walk. 10.00am Budleigh. Telephone 01395-567450

23 October

An evening of Scottish Dancing at Chardstock Village Hall 7.30 - 10.00 p.m,. Tea and coffee provided but please bring your own mug. No partner required. Cost £3.00 For more information contact David on 01460 65981 www.chardscottishdancingclub.org MFA Bowl, St Nicholas Street, Weymouth an archaeological investigation by archaeologist Richard McConnell. Teas from 2.00 pm and talk starts at 2.30 pm in Hope URC, Trinity Street, Weymouth, DT4 8TW. Tickets at the door: £2 for members of ‘Friends of Weymouth Museum’, £3 for non-members.

Free introductory bridge session Bridport Bridge Club is offering a free intro to bridge 2 - 4.00pm at Bradpole Village Hall.

For more information, please contact Martin on 01308 861120; email bridportbridgeclub@gmail.com or visit the club website – www.bridgewebs.com/bridport

16 The Marshwood Vale Magazine October 2023 Email info@marshwoodvale.com Tel. 01308 423031

24 October

Scottish Country dancing at Horton village Hall Nr Ilminster TA19 9QR every Tuesday evening from 7.30 to 9.30 pm with break for refreshments. Please wear soft , flat , comfy shoes if possible.

Pay on the door £3.00 per evening. For further information contact Anita on 01460 929383 email anitaandjim22@gmail.com or visit our web site at www.ashillscd.wordpress.com All welcome.

Cairo Conspiracy A tense political drama exploring the ruthlessness of a corrupt authoritarian state where the politics extends to corruption of the clergy. . In the period following Egypt’s regime crushing the Arab Spring uprising, the state’s secret service is tasked with ensuring the “right” candidate gets elected as spiritual leader of the Islamic faith. (English Subtitles). 7.45pm.

Bridport Film Society at Bridport Arts Centre. Members and guests (£5).

25 October

East Devon Ramblers Axe Valley 7 miles leisurely walk. 10.30am.

Axminster. Telephone 01297-552313 Uplyme and Lyme Regis Horticultural Society talk on The Wonderfully Versatile Rose by Michael Marriott, world renowned rosarian. Uplyme Village Hall 7.30pm; refreshments from 7pm.

Members free, non-members £5. More information www.ulrhs. wordpress.com Learn to Draw Owls for Beginners 10 am until 12 noon. Cost £16. At the United Reformed Church Hall, Chard St, Axminster.

The subject this month is Owls. To book a place contact : gina. youens@btinternet.com WomanSpeak Axminster / Kilmington 2hr Introduction Class - Join us for a first hand experience of what WomanSpeak is all about. A female centric speaking, communication and confidence building program. You will have an opportunity to experience a unique formula of techniques and philosophy. Such as, The art of listening ; Learning to speak your truth on stage, in relationships, in groups at the dinner table, with friends….everywhere ; Finding internal safety ; Embodiment practices ; Delving into your values and beliefs ; Harnessing your message. 9am - 11am Ria’s Workshop @ Millers Farmshop, Gammons Hill, Axminster EX13 7RA Numbers limited £15 / £10 con. To book & learn more about WomanSpeak at www.megansimson.com ph 07379747301

26 October

Concert Luckley House choir a concert not to be missed! St. Andrew’s Church, Charmouth 17:00 Free entry donations welcome 01297 560681.

Clapton & Wayford Village Hall AGM business followed by cheese & wine, 7.30pm; all welcome. More details from Mary (01460 74849) Powerstock at The Hut 10:30am. (Doors open 10.00am) Artsreach presents Lyngo Theatre - Egg & Spoon for ages 1-4.

Booking :01308485730 or 07817429907 or online www.artsreach. co.uk Adults £7, £5 u18s, £20 family

27 October

‘Spooky Halloween Trail’ - Gateway Theatre, Seaton, From 11am, £1 per entry on the door. ‘Hotrock Productions – Halloween Party Time’ doors 1.30pm, party 2pm, tickets adults £5, child £8. ‘A Haunting in Venice’ (12A) – Picnic Night screening, doors 6.30pm, film 7.30pm, tickets adults £7.50, Under 16s £6.50.

Tickets from 01297 625699, www.thegatewayseaton.co.uk or in person Tue - Thur 10am - 1pm.

28 October

Bridport & West Dorset Rambling Club 8 mile walk from Abbotsbury Swannery. For further information please ring 01308 898484.

Cattistock in Concert presents The Cornucopia Horn Quartet An evening of music by Handel, Beethoven, Khachaturian and Rimsky-Korsakov, Tickets £10 available on the door or at village shop 7pm Cattistock Church DT2 0JH Contact 07976 853989 Scratchworks Theatre Company present ‘Hags’ – Gateway Theatre, Seaton – live theatre, doors 7pm, show 7.30pm, tickets £adults £13.50, Under 16s £10. Packed full of magic tricks, physical comedy and live music. Tickets from 01297 625699, www. thegatewayseaton.co.uk or in person Tue - Thur 10am - 1pm.

29 October

East Devon Ramblers Pebble bed Heaths 7 miles leisurely walk.

10.00am. Budleigh. Telephone 07739-392614 ‘Dance with Flavia’ Dance classes – Gateway Theatre, Seaton, tickets £14 pp singles, couples £30 per couple. I hour per class.

Tickets from 01297 625699, www.thegatewayseaton.co.uk or in person Tue - Thur 10am - 1pm.

Divine Union Soundbath 2 pm Oborne Village Hall, Oborne, nr. Sherborne, Dorset DT9 4LA Please book in advance 01935 389655 ahiahel@live.com £15

30 October

Colour in the Garden without Flowers with Philip Gamble, garden designer, horticultural adviser and nature and gardens photographer. Golden Cap Association. United Church Main Hall, Bridport. 2.30 pm. Members £3, Visitors £5. Contact Mike Nicks 01308 459855.

“Weymouth Lifeboat and the RNLI” by lifeboat volunteer Ken Francis. Teas from 2.00 pm and talk starts at 2.30 pm in Hope URC, Trinity Street, Weymouth, DT4 8TW. Tickets at the door: £2 for members of ‘Friends of Weymouth Museum’, £3 for nonmembers.

Winsham Art Club 2 pm at Jubilee Hall TA20 4HU. The theme of this practical session is “Becoming more familiar with Brusho technique”. It is a 2.5 hr. session led by a visiting tutor. Small friendly group of mixed abilities. Members £5, non-members £7. Annual membership £15. All welcome. Contact: Email : elfridevaughan@gmail.com for further details.

Colour in the Garden without Flowers A talk by Philip Gamble, garden designer, horticultural adviser and gardens photographer.

2.30 pm in United Church Main Hall, East Street, Bridport.

National Trust Golden Cap Association. Contact: Mike Nicks 01308 459855. Members £3, Visitors £5.

Bridge lessons for new and returning players Bridport Bridge Club is running a new course of beginner lessons at Bradpole Village Hall starting on Monday October 30th, 2-4.30pm (see intro session listing on 23rd October). Sessions are £5 each, payable on the day. For more information, please contact Martin on 01308 861120; email bridportbridgeclub@gmail.com or visit the club website – www.bridgewebs.com/bridport An evening of Scottish Dancing at Chardstock Village Hall 7.30 - 10.00 p.m. Tea and coffee provided but please bring your own mug. No partner required. Cost £3.00 For more information contact David on 01460 65981 www.chardscottishdancingclub.org

31 October

Yeovil Railway Centre Yeovil Junction, Stoford BA22 9UU: Halloween Night, 6pm - 9pm. 01935 410420 for recorded information; www.yeovilrailway.freeservers.com; or on Facebook.

Scottish Country dancing at Horton village Hall Nr Ilminster TA19 9QR every Tuesday evening from 7.30 to 9.30 pm with break for refreshments. Please wear soft , flat , comfy shoes if possible.

Pay on the door £3.00 per evening. For further information contact Anita on 01460 929383 email anitaandjim22@gmail.com or visit our web site at www.ashillscd.wordpress.com All welcome.

Tel. 01308 423031 The Marshwood Vale Magazine October 2023 17

News&Views LYME REGIS Green Change for schools

A new non-profit social enterprise, Little Green Change, that focusses on environmental education in primary schools, secondary schools and in the local community, has launched this month. Little Green Change is developing their Schools Programme, aimed at secondary school eco clubs across the UK, which covers biodiversity, waste, water, energy, purchasing, travel, and human health. You can find out more on the website littlegreenchange.com

CHARMOUTH Funding Award for Centre

The Charmouth Heritage Coast Centre, a small educational charity, has won funding from the Royal Society of Chemistry to highlight the chemistry in the story of our coastline and its fossils. The project, called ‘Jurassic Lab’, will use children’s enthusiasm for fossils to engage them with basic ideas in chemistry. It will be part of the Centre’s outreach schools’ programme across the region over the coming year. For information visit https://charmouth.org/chcc/about/.

KILMINGTON Carp pond saves the day

An on site carp pond proved vital to help firefighters extinguish an RV fire at a campsite in Kilmington recently. Crews from Axminster and Colyton set up a Light Portable Pump to carry water from the pond when a motor home with a gas canister beneath it caught fire.

18 The Marshwood Vale Magazine October 2023 Email info@marshwoodvale.com Tel. 01308 423031

DORCHESTER First community led COP

The first-ever community led Dorset COP, held at the Corn Exchange in Dorchester saw three of Dorset’s leading climate action groups come together to urge urgent action to combat climate change. The carbonneutral event hosted a variety of workshops and keynote speakers, welcoming visitors from across the county. Co-founder of Zero Carbon Dorset, Dr Neil Smith called for organisations to remain focussed on delivering a greener and cleaner Dorset.

CHESIL BEACH Wild camping

Illegal camping on Chesil Beach is still a major concern for residents of the village West Bexington according to local news reporting. Residents have complained that a lack of controls has meant that campers will ‘take a chance’ on not being moved on.

A spokesperson for Dorset Council said that the council has invested a significant amount of money in dealing with the issue, including the installation of a special CCTV camera after one had been stolen.

John the kick-sampler: discovering the world of invertebrates under the surface. Photo: © Robin Mills.

Nature Studies

By Michael McCarthy

Y

ou wouldn’t think that you might start to grasp the immense diversity of life on earth in a small river running through a Dorset village; but you can. That is, if you start to realise what’s under the water surface.

The river in our village isn’t hugely visible, in fact it’s somewhat tucked away—it isn’t like the Sydling Water, say, which you can’t miss as it flows so charmingly around the cottages in Sydling St Nicholas—but once you know where to find it, you are struck by what a beautiful watercourse it is, a chalk stream of crystal clarity. And it has a group of conservation-minded villagers who are its active defenders. Every month, in the spring and summer, on the alert for an early warning of pollution (which would mean informing the Environment Agency) they monitor the river’s condition by testing the level of its aquatic life.

They do it by taking what are known as kick samples—you kick and scrunch the riverbed vigorously with your boot, holding a net just downstream, and see what flows into it. What they’re looking for are mainly the larvae of aquatic flies, such as the mayflies which fly fishermen imitate with their artificial creations, to attract trout.

Using them as health indicators is a procedure devised by anglers, in fact, known as the Riverfly Monitoring Initiative, although it has spread beyond the angling community, and Angus Menzies of the Dorset Wildlife Trust will train non-anglers to do it. Such are Roy, Robin, John and Prue, and Pauline who do it in our village, where the river flows through the garden of our friend Kate, and is thus easily accessible (Kate generously provides coffee as well as access). For the last few months I have been watching them, and in doing so, my eyes have been properly opened to the true nature of life in a river.

For if you ask people about this, I think many would just say, fish. That’s understandable. Fish are familiar—you know what a trout looks like, don’t you?—and if we peer into the water, sometimes we can see them. People might also instance otters and water voles as examples of river life, and maybe herons and kingfishers, which are similarly visible. Yet all these creatures are vertebrates, that is, animals with backbones, and taken as a whole they represent only a tiny fraction of riverine biodiversity. It is

An incomer’s discovery of the natural world in the West Country the invertebrates, the small backboneless animals, the insects, the snails, the crustaceans, the molluscs, the worms and all the other bug-like things, which make up the vast majority of river life—it’s just that we hardly ever see them.

But they’re what Roy and his fellow monitors are looking for. To be precise, they’re looking for eight invertebrate species, seven of them insects: four mayfly larvae, two caddisfly larvae, and a stonefly larva (the eighth species is a crustacean, a freshwater shrimp.) These have all been carefully chosen for their sensitivity to pollution—if they’re present in good numbers, the river is likely to be healthy— and also for the fact that they can be identified by non-specialists, so making possible yet another example of the citizen science which is at least one thing in Britain we do inspiringly well.

And watching our monitors do their kick samples and sort out the contents of the net, from a bucket, to a tray, then to a compartmentalised tray, you get a remarkable vision of teeming life. I had never realised there were just so many different small living things in the fronds of the water crowfoot and the gravel of the river bed—not just the mayflies and caddisflies and stoneflies and shrimps, but beetles and mites and snails and leeches and damselfly larvae and so much more, in a wonderful abundance of the sort we used to have on land, in the countryside, before intensive farming destroyed it.

You won’t grasp this, the true miraculous diversity of life in rivers, and by extension of life on earth, by just counting the things you can see, such as fish: in Britain we have only about fifty freshwater fish species. But we have about 3,800 species of freshwater invertebrates, which may be generally invisible, yet whose amazing multiplicity I found myself comprehending, in watching Roy, Robin, John and Prue, and Pauline sorting through the wee beasties which emerged from our village’s small and lovely chalk stream – patient, all of them, enthusiastic and committed (and fortified by coffee from Kate.)

Recently relocated to Dorset, Michael McCarthy is the former Environment Editor of The Independent. His books include Say Goodbye To The Cuckoo and The Moth Snowstorm: Nature and Joy Tel. 01308 423031 The Marshwood Vale Magazine October 2023 19

The R Word: regen Whilst Rewilding allows nature to lead the way in its own restoration, Regenerative Agriculture works with nature to produce food for us. Dr Sam Rose visit’s Groundswell.

A

s promised, a slightly different R-Word this time, with the R standing for regenerative agriculture, not rewilding.

Why? I hear you ask… well, rewilding is a spectrum of approaches for improving biodiversity and ecosystem services (such as water quality, carbon capture etc) and is based on nature taking the lead. It is not an agricultural production system, although almost all rewilding sites do produce a small quantity of very high quality meat, and many places, including Knepp, consider that they are undertaking ‘wild’ farming. The problem is that many of the UK’s rewilding areas are surrounded by intensively farmed land, with significant use of agrochemicals, so the rewilded nature that is thriving in these areas has nowhere to go and the rewilding site becomes an island.

So what has regenerative agriculture (generally referred to as ‘regen’) got to do with this, and what is it anyway? Well, I knew a little, but to find out more, back in June I went to the two-day Groundswell festival, kind of a Glasto for regen farmers, but mainly with tractors and talks, although there was a big music tent, and a surprise DJ set by Andy Cato, he of Groove Armada fame, himself a regen farmer. It was quite something to see hundreds of young farmers and land agents jumping up and down to dance music in gilets and green wellies with their hands in their air!

I digress. Regenerative Agriculture is simple. Groundswell say that “it is any form of farming, ie the production of food or fibre, which at the same time improves the environment. This primarily means regenerating the soil. It’s a direction of travel, not an absolute”. To dissect this a little, regen is about farming that actually improves the environment which it uses, rather than depleting and destroying it. It is a system of farming principles and practices that enriches soils, increases biodiversity, improves watersheds and enhances ecosystem services, all of which are degraded by intensive, industrial farming techniques.

I should probably add in here, this is not a vilification of farmers. Since the 1950s ‘the system’ has encouraged and

20 The Marshwood Vale Magazine October 2023 Email info@marshwoodvale.com Tel. 01308 423031

‘It was quite something to see hundreds of young farmers and land agents jumping up and down to dance music’

Regenerative farming is a massively important tool in tackling climate change.

supported them to work in a certain way, through subsidies, promises of high yields through synthetic agrochemicals, and supermarket pressures. They have worked to this system because it was encouraged, but it is only more recently that we are realising the damage that our quest for cheap food has had on nature, and in particular the soil. When we hear stories of ‘only 50 harvests left’ that may not be so far fetched as it stands under industrial approaches.

And talking of harvests, it all comes down to the soil.

Regen farmers are obsessed with soil, and rightly so, because it is only with healthy soil that good crops can grow and nature can thrive. Groundswell say: “A healthy soil is a fabulously complex ecosystem, comprising countless billions of microscopic organisms all working away in their own little niches, feasting on each other and sugars exuded from the roots of growing plants. The whole system is ultimately fuelled by growing plants, whilst at the same time the system helps the plants grow.” I know a regen organic dairy farmer from Dorset who can talk for hours about his soil quality measurements and how they have improved through their mob grazing techniques. But not only is the quality improved in terms of fertility, but also in terms of soil carbon, so regenerative farming is a massively important tool in tackling climate change.

But what does regen involve? People tend to stick to these 5 principles: 1. Don’t disturb the soil—regen adopts a ‘no-till’ approach, so no ploughing please, instead you can ‘direct drill’ seeds into the soil.

2. Keep the soil surface covered—growing cover crops or leaving stubble protects the soil from damage from harsh rain or intense sun 3. Keep living roots in the soil—to feed the bacteria and mycelium (not like in Star Trek, sorry) that keep the soil fertile. The fungal (mycorrhizal) network that is critical to soil fertility is broken up every time soil is ploughed

4. Grow a diverse range of crops—ideally at the same time.

Crops often help each other and nature thrives on variety 5. Bring grazing animals back to the land—for the organic matter and other benefits they can bring—which is a link back to the role of herbivores in rewilding.

Adopting these approaches, along with a reduction and eventual removal of synthetic fertilisers, fungicides and pesticides, provide a fabulous place for nature to thrive alongside significant food production. But don’t take my word for it, and please don’t think this is a hippy fad, this is serious business, and it works and it is starting to be adopted widely in the UK and globally. One local landowner recently told me that regen will ‘be’ farming in the future, we need to accept it and adopt it. Early adopters like Ken Hill in Norfolk (of Springwatch fame) have been through the change and can’t imagine ever returning to more intensive approaches.

What’s so important about regen is that, like rewilding, it works with nature as opposed to fighting against nature. It draws on our knowledge of the ‘older ways’ of farming, restoring and working with the natural ecological balance of the land; something that many indigenous communities around the world still practice, from whom we could learn a lot.

So regen is the flip side of rewilding. Whilst Rewilding allows nature to lead the way in its own restoration, Regenerative Agriculture works with nature to produce food for us. Moreover, wildlife and biodiversity from rewilding areas or other natural spaces are able to spread and increase more easily if adjacent land is farmed regeneratively rather than intensively. As ever, there is nuance and there will be counter arguments, but for now, and for me, the ‘R-word’ relates to the two concepts, both of which, I believe, are essential for our future.

For more about Dr Sam Rose visit: whatifyoujustleaveit.info Tel. 01308 423031 The Marshwood Vale Magazine October 2023 21

New family-friendly autumn trail at Kingston Lacy

T

Kingston Lacy © National Trust Images, Jon Bish

he National Trust team at Kingston Lacy, Dorset, have specially commissioned a series of wooden panels, decorated with pyrographic illustrations, to mark the start of autumn.

The panels have been installed along a trail that weaves through some of the most photogenic areas of the garden and will make the most of the autumn colours as they develop.

Created in conjunction with talented local artist Tamsin Quin, the panels help children discover what creatures live in the woodlands—there are riddles to solve along the way, exploring which animals are looking for food and which preparing for hibernation.

The trail takes visitors through some of the most iconic parts of the garden, including the Japanese Garden where more than 40 varieties of acer are starting to colour up with fiery reds, yellow and oranges.

It’s just one part of the autumn programme at Kingston Lacy, where you can also help with the apple harvest in the Kitchen Garden on 30 September and 3 October or see a new apple press in action on 20 and 21 October.

You can pick up a free trail map at visitor reception (normal admission applies).

There will be more activities for families during October half term from 23 to 27 October, when you can snuggle up for a story in the woodland hideaway, or head for the craft tent to create a paper wreath to take home.

Visit the Kingston Lacy website (www.nationaltrust.

Colourful acers in the Japanese Garden at Kingston Lacy org.uk/visit/dorset/kingston-lacy) for more information. © National Trust Images, Jemma Finch

22 The Marshwood Vale Magazine October 2023 Email info@marshwoodvale.com Tel. 01308 423031

A million-pound project to restore Dorset’s peatlands

Canford Heath quad Credit Dorset Peat Partnership DORSET Peat Partnership, led by Dorset Wildlife Trust, has been awarded a £750,000 grant from Defra’s Nature for Climate Peatland Grant Scheme, matched by £250,000 from other funders and partners to fund work on 16 sites across Dorset to rewet and restore 172 hectares of fragmented and damaged peatlands.

Dorset’s iconic heathlands hold the largest areas of our county’s peat in ‘peaty pockets’ and valley mires. Peatlands are England’s largest land-based carbon store, yet most of them are degraded and emitting carbon, because they are not wet enough to be building up peat.

The grant has been awarded following 18 months of survey work by the partnership organisations and volunteers to gather data on an initial long list of 80 candidate sites across urban and rural Dorset and then to identify 16 sites where the most successful restoration can be achieved. This funding will enable restoration of these sites to hold water for longer each year which will reduce the amount of carbon emitted from degraded peat and once restored, allow carbon sequestration. The work will also improve drought and fire resilience by holding more water in the landscape during the summer and by increasing site capacity for water storage, it will also help to reduce nuisance flooding yearround.

Dorset Wildlife Trust’s Conservation Director, Imogen Davenport said, ‘We are delighted that the hard work of the partnership to plan for restoration of some of Dorset’s precious peatlands has been recognised by the award of this grant. Our peaty pockets not only act as a carbon and water store, so keeping sites wet in drought and holding back water in flood but of course, they are home to some of our most precious and specialist wildlife. This includes sphagnum moss which plays a part in forming peat soils, insecteating plants like sundew, and raft spiders, which sense their prey by feeling for vibrations in the water surface.’

Natalie Poulter, Dorset Catchment Partnerships Co-Ordinator said, ‘Dorset is wellknown as a beautiful and wildlife-rich county, but our peatlands are overlooked and in decline. This one-million-pound project will provide a huge kick-start to the long-term recovery of these precious wetland habitats. The patchwork nature of Dorset’s heaths and mires means that restoring the wet peaty areas will have a ripple effect of supporting wildlife in the wider heathland habitats too, making this restoration doubly exciting.’

Dorset Peat Partnership is part of Dorset Catchment Partnerships and is hosted by Dorset Wildlife Trust. Other partners include Natural England, Environment Agency, Forestry England, Bournemouth, Christchurch, and Poole (BCP) Council, Dorset Council, National Trust, RSPB (Royal Society for the Protection of Birds) (Royal Society for the Protection of Birds) and Bournemouth University, plus one private landowner.

To find out more about Dorset Peat Partnership, visit: www.dorsetwildlifetrust.org.uk/ what-we-do/conservation-work-land/dorset-peat-partnership

Cotton grass Grace Herve

Sundews_Hyde Bog - Grace Herve

Bop Asphodel_Slop Bog - Grace Herve

All images © Dorset Wildlife Trust

Tel. 01308 423031 The Marshwood Vale Magazine October 2023 23

House&Garden

Vegetables in October

By Ashley Wheeler

O

ctober has come and the pressure is off. There is still plenty to do in the market garden, but there is less than before, or maybe there is more time to do it. Whichever way round you look at it, things are a little calmer than they were through the summer months.

However, there are a few last things that need to be done before the days get too short. The winter salads and other crops being planted in the polytunnels need to be in the ground this month, to give them enough time to put their roots down and put on some growth before first harvests in November. There are also the last few sowings of spring onions and sugarsnap peas that will be sown this month for polytunnel growing, and then the garlic will be planted ideally at the end of the month or in November.

Meanwhile, outside the main focus is making sure that any bare ground is sown with green manures to maximise the living roots in the soil and protect it through the winter. There is not a great selection of green manures that will germinate at this time of year, and we have already undersown a lot of crops, so there are just a few beds that are still bare at this time of the year as we finish harvesting certain crops. The main plants to sow at this time of year are just the cereals like oats and rye, which will put on good growth through the autumn and get their roots down well.

You might get away with adding some vetch to the mix too, and you could also consider putting in some winter hardy peas and broad beans or field beans - which will double up as a crop in the spring by being able to harvest the tips for salads.

We are still harvesting plenty of produce from the garden, with corn still just about going, plus the squash (although sadly ours didn’t do well this year - they suffered when we planted them into ground that had a lot of organic matter in from a previous green manure which caused some nutrient lock up, so it was a bit late by the time they got going). We have salad turnips, winter radish, some fennel, lots of brassicas and other greens, plenty of chicory and other salads too. The squash will need harvesting before the frosts come, and are best cured to harden their skins and concentrate the flavours. After a couple of weeks in a warm place they can then be stored somewhere cooler through the winter.

This time of year is a really good time to reflect on successes and failures in the garden whilst it is still relatively fresh in your mind. These thoughts can then be used to plan out the garden for next year, and adapt what you grow, when to sow it and how much to sow. Think about whether any particular beds were bare for a period of time that would allow another crop to be planted and harvested and plan this in for next year.

This picture shows the market garden in December, with very little bare soil, but lots of green manures that were sown through September and October.

WHAT TO SOW THIS MONTH: Spring onions (for polytunnel/glasshouse), broad beans, garlic, peas, sugarsnaps and peashoots (all for overwintering in the polytunnel/glasshouse), mustards, rocket, leaf radish (last chance for sowing these for overwintering in polytunnel/ glasshouse) WHAT TO PLANT THIS MONTH: OUTSIDE: overwintering spring onions (if not before), direct broad beans and garlic.

INSIDE: overwintering salad leaves, coriander, chervil, chard, perpetual spinach, parsley, spring onions, overwintering peas.

OTHER IMPORTANT TASKS THIS MONTH: continue mulching beds for the winter, especially on beds that you didnt get round to sowing green manures. Make a start on your winter job list before it starts getting too wet and cold—if there are any repairs to tools or garden infrastructure that need to be done, now is a good time to do it. Don’t be tempted to “tidy” the garden too much just yet—there is plenty of food for birds and insects in the form of weed seed heads, so let them be for a while longer.

24 The Marshwood Vale Magazine October 2023 Email info@marshwoodvale.com Tel. 01308 423031

New fund to help East Devon culture organisations and creatives Arts and Culture East Devon (ACED) are to launch a ‘Creative East Devon Fund’.

East Devon culture organisations and creatives struggling to fund a cultural project, festival or event may find help through a new fund from Arts & Story Boat at Beer jubilee © Emma Molony Culture East Devon.

The Creative East Devon Fund will provide discretionary financial support to local art & culture initiatives and projects that can demonstrate a commitment to developing the East Devon Cultural Strategy. The scheme is funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.

The total funding available will be £25,000. The maximum grant amount will be £3,000 and the minimum amount is £500. The project must have finished and the funds all be spent by March 2024. There are plans for a second round of funding to be available in the next financial year for longer term projects due to be completed by March 2025.

The fund will be open to applications from Monday 2 October and close on Wednesday 15 November. Applicants with an innovative idea are encouraged to get in touch with the ACED’s Cultural Producer at aced@ eastdevon.gov.uk for an informal conversation before applying.

Tel. 01308 423031 The Marshwood Vale Magazine October 2023 25

October in the Garden

By Russell Jordan

I

t will be interesting to see how good the autumn colour is this year. Good, strong, autumn hues, in trees such as ‘Japanese Maples’ (Acer) and Liquidambar, rely on there being a decent cocktail of the products of photosynthesis within the leaves that are due to be shed. The disappointingly dull and wet weather, in the latter part of the summer, will have diluted these colour giving constituents but, hopefully, the burst of sunny weather, with correspondingly high temperatures, at the beginning of last month will have boosted the photosynthesising potential of the foliage. Some deciduous trees and shrubs will begin to ‘colour up’ this month although, unless it gets very cold, very quickly, they should hold onto their leaves for a while longer yet.

As usual, the tasks that need doing in the garden this month will depend very much upon what the weather is doing. When it’s dry enough to be getting onto border soil, without compacting it too much, gently remove collapsed foliage to ‘edit’ out anything that’s beginning to detract from the plants that are still holding their own. The ‘stars’ of the autumn garden, ‘Asters’ (now mostly reclassified as Symphyotrichum), deserve to be freed of any neighbouring plants which have collapsed around, or onto, them.

Many asters really benefit from being grown through a support, such as pea-sticks, inserted while the plants are still small, because it’s pretty difficult to try and prop them up now as you are likely to do more harm than good. If grown amongst a supporting cast of grasses, maybe one of the smaller Miscanthus such as ‘Starlight’ (introduced by Dorset’s own ‘Knoll Gardens’—an authority on grasses for the garden), any threatened collapse can be contained.

The various ornamental grasses, that have become increasingly available over the past few decades, not just Miscanthus, are an important constituent of the autumn garden as it dissolves into winter. It might be too early yet for decent frosts, although preparing for them now is a good idea, but the flower and seed heads on plants, such as tall grasses, look particularly fine with a frost on them so are worth leaving in situ well into next spring.

Some things cannot be left in situ until next spring; anything that is not reliably hardy, or is definitely on the ‘tender’ side, should be prepared to be brought back under cover (a frost-free greenhouse or other protected growing space). If the specimens are planted in the garden soil, such

as geraniums (Pelargonium) used as bedding plants, then it’s a good idea to pot them up to allow them to establish before really cold weather stops all growth. Tender plants grown in pots and containers should be tidied up as much as possible this month in readiness for bringing under protection as soon as frosts are forecast.

Dahlias have had a huge resurgence in popularity over the past few years. They will still be flowering this month, as long as they’ve been regularly fed and dead-headed, and it is traditional to leave them outside until they are blackened by the first frosts. Thinking ahead, it may be a good idea to sort out somewhere to keep the lifted tubers over winter because they take up quite a lot of room. In sheltered spots, and in a mild winter, it may be possible to leave them in the ground, preferably covered with a deep layer of mulch, although I find that the winter wet may cause them to rot and they are a martyr to being destroyed by black keeled slugs (the sort that inhabit the soil and do their damage largely unseen).

While assessing the border it’s worth remembering that many of the high summer flowering herbaceous perennials, which have now stopped flowering, can be cut down to their basal rosettes, dug up, divided into smaller sections and replanted while the soil still retains some of its summer warmth. A lot of plants establish better, and get a good head start, if bought and planted at this time of year rather than in the spring. Lifting and dividing your own herbaceous perennials is a good habit to get into. You can rejuvenate existing border plants and also use any spare divisions to repopulate other areas of your own garden, pot up to fill future gaps or keep on hand to swap, or donate, to fellow gardeners.

Some suitable specimens include the herbaceous geraniums, day-lilies, phlox, clump-forming irises, Alchemilla (‘Lady’s Mantle’) and Leucanthemum (‘Shasta Daisies’). I realise that some plants are ‘frowned upon’, by more serious gardeners, simply because they are so easy, ubiquitous, but it’s hard to imagine a garden without a backbone of perennials such as Geranium ‘Orion’, Nepeta (cat mint) or good old Alchemilla mollis. Having a palette of dependable plants, shrubs as well as herbaceous perennials, is essential before adding the more exotic specimens to the mix—no point in running before you can walk.

As far as basic gardening tasks are concerned this month,

26 The Marshwood Vale Magazine October 2023 Email info@marshwoodvale.com Tel. 01308 423031

continuing with hedge cutting, if not yet completed, is a good idea whenever the foliage is not soaking wet. Also cutting the lawn, raising the cutting height as temperatures drop and growth slows down, and generally clearing up leaves as they begin to fall. When there are only a few leaves on the lawn, assuming they are not big leathery magnolia leaves, then collecting them using the lawnmower, if it has a collecting box, is time saving. If you have a lawn bordered by generous flower borders then a certain amount of leaf fall can be dealt with by blowing the leaves, with a leaf blower, into the borders where they can rot down. Shallow borders, or borders filled with Mediterranean style shrubs, especially lavender, will not welcome a covering of soggy leaves so, in this case, raking them up is preferable.

While you are attending to all the above it’s also worth remembering that bulb planting, for spring colour, should be continuing apace. If you ordered them in a timely fashion, from an online supplier, then they should have been delivered by now and need planting as soon after delivery as possible— with the usual exception of tulip bulbs which should be unpacked but can wait until next month to be planted.

Don’t forget that, for instant bulb gratification, garden centres and many supermarkets stock a selection of the most common bulb types if you didn’t get around to ordering them from a specialist. I still enjoy the more tactile experience of selecting bulbs, from a loose display, in a garden centre such as ‘Groves’. This has the advantage that you can choose the plumpest, most promising looking, specimens as long as you get there while they still have a decent amount of stock—I tend to leave these things too late!

Tel. 01308 423031 The Marshwood Vale Magazine October 2023 27

PROPERTY ROUND-UP

Scarily Good Homes

By Helen Fisher

CHIDEOCK £695,000

A classic Grade II listed detached period cottage dating back to the 16th century with 3 double bedrooms. Rethatched in 2017. Many character features inc: stone mullion windows, exposed beamed ceilings, inglenook fireplace and flagstone floors. Large garden plus pond and water feature. Triple and single garage.

Stags Tel: 01308 428000

CHIDEOCK £750,000

A handsome 19th Century property with a self-contained annex. Featuring a ground floor fully equipped gym, sauna, study and pottery/kiln area.

Upstairs are 6 good sized bedrooms, 5 ensuite. Classic details inc: Hallway with a Victorian tiled floor and open fireplaces. Large, well designed rear garden with 2 useful sheds and parking for 3/4 cars.

Symonds & Sampson Tel: 01308 422092

HAWKCHURCH £1,350,000

WALDITCH £500,000

A very attractive period house with 5/6 bedrooms set over 3 floors.

Many characterful features inc: exposed ceiling beams and original fireplace with wood-burning stove. Stunning 31ft kitchen/dining room with Aga. Modern family room with wood-burner and French doors.

Benefitting from renewable energy. Wraparound gardens with large ponds, stream, greenhouse, outbuildings and orchard. Set in 13.89 acres.

A unique 2 bedroom cottage set on an attractive raised plot.

Open plan living areas with feature fireplace. Dining room with sliding doors out onto the garden, plus conservatory.

Beautiful gardens with patio and shed. Parking for 2 vehicles. Close to town and beach.

Goadsby Tel: 01308 420000

COLYTON £815,000

BOTHENHAMPTON £550,000

Strutt & Parker Tel: 01392 215631

A substantial period family home with 4 bedrooms and a detached fully self-contained 1 bedroom annex. Lovely modern kitchen, living room with feature bow window and tiled fireplace with a multi-fuel stove plus conservatory. Large gardens with mature planting, 2 ornamental ponds, children’s play area and summer house. Plus patio and log store. Ample parking.

Gordon & Rumsby Tel: 01297 553768 28 The Marshwood Vale Magazine October 2023 Email info@marshwoodvale.com Tel. 01308 423031

Former School House renovated in 1978 and now in need of a little updating. Wood-effect double-glazed windows and gas central heating. Spacious vaulted bedroom plus second bedroom. Covered side workshop plus rear lobby, utility room, cloakroom and store. South facing gardens with long driveway, stone built workshop with loft space and power.

Kennedys Tel: 01308 427329

National Award for Dorset Charity AT a recent national Macmillan Cancer Support awards ceremony in Birmingham, Jo Millar—Chair of the Bridport based cancer charity The Living Tree—was given the prestigious With Ambition award, In recognition of going the extra mile and striving for better.

Jo Millar Jo co-founded The Living Tree with her namesake Jo O’Farrell MBE in 2012. Together they shared a belief in the enormous power of creativity and friendship to promote healing and as a result, it has grown strong roots in the community.

This pioneering self-help group supports anyone affected by cancer and offers a diverse range of activities designed to help people through what can be a very tough and traumatic time.

To learn more about or get involved with the charity, either phone The Living Tree on 07341 916976 or email thelivingtreedorset@gmail.com.

Tel. 01308 423031 The Marshwood Vale Magazine October 2023 29

Food&Dining PARTRIDGE ON YORKSHIRE TOAST WITH ELDERBERRIES This is a great way to get a couple of servings from one bird, as a starter, or as a dish in a multi-course dinner. You could use grouse, pigeon or mallard too.

You can use just the breast and save the legs for a salad or a soup. Or, alternatively, use the legs and breasts so your guests can pick up the legs and really get stuck in to the meal. Yorkshire toast you may ask? Well I discovered this by mistake one Christmas when I served a game bird feast for my guests and the leftover bread sauce I put in the fridge. The next day I thought why not slice it up and breadcrumb it and it was delicious. I’ve served it ever since and the naming of it referred to much of our game being shot in Yorkshire. If you haven’t frozen some elderberries like me then use blackberries as they are still on the bushes around here till the end of October ish, or sea buckthorn with are fruiting now and are great with game.

INGREDIENTS

DIRECTIONS

•

1. The day or night before, make the Yorkshire toast: Finely chop half the onion and cook it gently in half of the butter until soft. Stud the other half with the cloves, pushing them through the bay leaf to anchor it. Put the milk, nutmeg and studded onion in the saucepan with the cooked onion and bring to the boil. Season and simmer for 10–15 minutes. Remove the pan from the heat and leave the sauce to infuse for 30 minutes or so. Take out and discard the studded onion. Add 100g of the breadcrumbs and return the sauce to a low heat. Simmer gently for 10 minutes, giving it an occasional stir. Pour a third of the bread sauce from the pan into a blender and process, then return to the pan to the heat until the sauce has thickened up to a really stiff consistency, check and correct the seasoning if necessary. Line a container approximately 10cm square x 6cm with clingfilm and spoon in the bread sauce. Leave to cool, cover with clingfilm and leave to set in the fridge for a few hours or overnight.

2. Pre-heat the oven to 220C/gas mark 7. Season the partridges and rub the breasts with butter and roast for 15 minutes, keeping them nice and pink. Leave to cool a little.

3. Remove the breasts and legs from the partridge and cut each of the breasts into 3 or 4 slices and remove the leg meat from the bone and cut into pieces. Mix the red wine vinegar and oil together, add to the pan to collect any pan juices then strain into to a bowl, season and add the elderberries.

4. Turn out the set bread sauce onto a chopping board. Cut into 2cm thick slices and coat lightly in flour then the beaten egg and finally the breadcrumbs. Heat a tablespoon of oil in preferably a non-stick frying pan and cook the slices of Yorkshire toast for a couple minutes on each side until nicely coloured, then transfer onto some kitchen paper.

5. Arrange a breast on each slice of Yorkshire toast, place in the centre of your serving plates, scatter the leg meat on top and spoon the dressing over and around and serve.

• • •

MARK HIX

• •

• • • • • • • • •

2 oven-ready partridges Salt and freshly ground black pepper A couple of knobs of butter, softened ½tbsp good-quality red wine vinegar 2tbsp rapeseed oil 2tbls elderberries For the Yorkshire toast 1 small onion, peeled and halved 50g butter 5 cloves 1 bay leaf 500ml milk Pinch of ground nutmeg 150g fresh white breadcrumbs plus 50g for coating Plain flour for dusting 1 egg, beaten

Serves 4

30 The Marshwood Vale Magazine October 2023 Email info@marshwoodvale.com Tel. 01308 423031

Gate to Plate in Axminster FREE to attend, family-friendly, accessible and held in a town centre is the ethos behind the Gate to Plate food festivals being held around the Westcountry. They aim to celebrate the great local producers surrounding the festival town by putting on a cracking one-day festival that is low cost for them to attend.

October is Axminster’s turn and with the support of East Devon District Council the town hopes to host up to 60 producers for the first Gate to Plate in the town on Saturday October 7th.

Organized by eat:Festivals, a not-for-profit social enterprise that aims to connect communities with the productive landscape that surrounds them, Gate to Plate is promoted as good for local business, food producers and for families.

The festivals aim to bring a great range of producers and products into the town on the day of the festival who are mostly based within 30 miles of each town—with a few exceptional and hard to find products from further afield. Organisers try to mix in a hands-on cook school, workshops, livestock, tractors and lots of entertainment and competitions.

The event is a free day out and a chance to meet friends whilst discovering something new.

Thanking East Devon District Council for their support, co-organiser Beverley Milner Simonds said there will be over 60 local producers including farmers market favourites such as local ales, ciders and wine, bread, cakes and pies, plus street food, spirits and charcuterie as well as music and street entertainers.

Diversions will be in place in the town on the day from 7am to 7pm and the event, which will take place on Silver Street, Church Street and around the Minster, will run from 10 - 4pm.

Tel. 01308 423031 The Marshwood Vale Magazine October 2023 31

Arts&Entertainment

From Peggy Sue to Glengarry Glen Ross Billy Geraghty directs Mamet classic at Lyme Regis and talks to Fanny Charles.

G

Billy Geraghty

abby Rabbitts and Billy Geraghty have known each other since they were young—when Billy and his band rehearsed in a barn at Gabby’s father’s house in Symondsbury. When Billy came back to live in Lyme Regis, with a wealth of experience on stage and television and in films under his belt, it was a natural connection with Gabby, by now director of the Marine Theatre, for him to lead courses and workshops to give young people an introduction to the craft and technical skills of television and cinema. And when Gabby hatched an ambitious plan for the Marine to stage its own in-house productions, it was Billy she asked to direct the first play.

He had returned with his family to live in Lyme Regis after a stage and screen career that included playing the title role in the Buddy Holly musical for three years in the West End as well as tours of Australia, Canada, Europe and the UK. For more than ten years he also had roles in some of the most popular television dramas and soap operas, including East Enders, Casualty, Midsomer Murders and Poirot.

And so the actor-musician, who is best-known to thousands of theatre-goers for his performance as Buddy Holly, is preparing for the opening, on 5th October, of the Marine’s first home-grown production, Glengarry Glen Ross, David Mamet’s excoriating black comedy set in the cutthroat real estate world of 1980s Chicago.

Famously filmed with an all-star cast that included Al Pacino, Jack Lemmon, Alec Baldwin, Kevin Spacey, Jonathan Pryce, Alan Arkin and Ed Harris, the original play had its world premiere at the National Theatre in

1983, opening on Broadway the following year, when it also won the Pulitzer Prize. The premise is a contest: whoever sells the most property wins a Cadillac, but whoever sells the least gets fired. The play’s themes of morality and the corrosive effects of extreme capitalism are explored through brilliant dialogue and dark comedy, as four desperate people use every trick in the playbook, from bribery and burglary to threats, intimidation, lies and flattery, to con unsuspecting victims into parting with money for non-existent or sub-standard property.

It is essentially a Darwinian struggle of survival, made all the more riveting in the Lyme Regis production by the decision to have gender-blind casting. Putting women into parts which have always been played by men changes the context and even the meaning of the text, says Billy, as it adds a powerful element of animosity between men and women.

The play is often described as a classic example of toxic masculinity but with his mixed cast, Billy Geraghty has been able to explore its complex themes to greater depth.

‘There are so many metaphors in this play,’ he says. One is the lesson of capitalism taken to its logical extreme: ‘Those who are at the bottom will stay there.’

The real estate agents are latter-day snake-oil salesmen, cajoling and conning, trading off the gullibility and weakness of their victims, fighting to survive like rats in a sack. Billy is fascinated to know how the audience will react to the characters—‘At the end, do you feel sympathy for any of them?’ he asks.

At the time the play is set, the early 1980s, about 45 per cent of real estate agents in the US were women, so Billy feels it is entirely relevant to have women in the cast. The casting of well-known local actress Jodie Glover as the sales manager (the part played by Kevin Spacey in the film) gives a particular edge to the production.

Several of the cast, all recruited locally, have worked in sales, so they understand the pressures; the production manager, Sue Woodruff, lived in the US for a while, working in real estate and training estate agents. She has been ‘a goldmine of information,’ says Billy.

As a boy, Billy went to Woodroffe School, and with a group of friends formed a band that played in Lyme Regis, Bridport and local village halls. He mastered many instruments—including drums and guitar—and took part in local productions including The Reckoning, one of the late Ann Jellicoe’s remarkable community plays. Acting is in his family—his mother acted, and his great aunt was Angela Lansbury.

32 The Marshwood Vale Magazine October 2023 Email info@marshwoodvale.com Tel. 01308 423031

After training at East 15 drama school, he got plenty of work as an actor, often in very small speaking parts because of his valuable ability as a musician. Eventually he realised the theatres were getting him cheap and he decided to concentrate on his acting. He auditioned for the new musical Buddy: the Buddy Holly Story, initially as the drummer. He recalls the director taking a long look at him, saying: ‘Never mind about the drummer. Go and get a big pair of glasses and a guitar and come back for tomorrow’s audition.’ Six months later, he was starring in the title role in the West End. In all, he spent around ten years playing Buddy Holly, getting to know the singer’s family and widow, Maria Elena and learning about their short life together.

Later he got to know some of the family of Jerry Lee

Jodie Glover and Chris Dene in Glengarry Glen Ross

Lewis (who died last year), when he played the bad-boy rocker in Great Balls of Fire—this was a very different experience! Billy was not a great pianist, so he spent three intensive months practising, ‘trying to get close to the ferocity with which he played.’

He also met Jerry: ‘It was terrifying—like being circled by a shark.’

Billy was concerned what Jerry would think of his performance. According to his sister Linda Gail Lewis, the rock’n’roller, who was known as “The Killer,” was apparently impressed—in fact, it was so good, that he said he might “have to shoot him.”

Glengarry Glen Ross is at the Marine Theatre, Lyme Regis, from Thursday 5th to Saturday 7th October; www.marinetheatre.com

October GALLERIES

29 September - 11 October

Connections: Group 7 The members of “group 7” are all established artists who are connected by their confidence in their practice as a relevant and vital medium, they aim to develop and substantiate their position within contemporary practice. Sou’Sou’-West Arts Gallery, Symondsbury Estate, Bridport DT6 6HG. Open daily 10:30-4:30. Free admission & parking. Contact 01308 301326 www.sousouwest.co.uk

29 September - 22 October

Smalls for Walls An exhibition which focuses on smaller works of art, with a maximum size of 30 cms x 30cms. Sou’-Sou’-West Arts Gallery, Symondsbury Estate, Bridport DT6 6HG. Open daily 10:30-4:30. Free admission & parking. Contact 01308 301326 www.sousouwest.co.uk

Until 1 October

Water and Sky Local artists Mary Noon and Vivienne Littley Rotunda Gallery, Lyme Regis Museum, Bridge St, Lyme Regis DT7 3QA, Tues-Sat 10am-5pm, Sun 10am-4pm, www.lymeregismuseum. co.uk.

1 - 31 October

Kit Glaisyer presents an evolving exhibition of his West Country landscape paintings, with works on show in his gallery and studio, including original paintings, drawings, and prints on canvas. Open Weds & Sat 10-4pm or by appointment. Kit Glaisyer Gallery, 11 Downes Street, Bridport, Dorset DT6 3JR. 07983 465789 www. kitglaisyery.com @kitglaisyer

3 - 28 October

Our Amazing Planet Ten artists will be exhibiting, including a wide range of styles and media exploring our amazing planet, with paintings, fused glass, photography and crafts. Ilminster Arts Centre, TA19 0AN. Tues-Sat, 9.30am - 3pm. Free entry. https://www. ilminsterartscentre.com/exhibitions

Until 5 October

Inspiration An exhibition and sale of an eclectic mix of work from 7 West Dorset artists encompassing painting, ceramics and stained glass. 10am - 4pm The Malthouse Gallery, The Town Mill, Mill Lane,

Lyme Regis Dorset DT7 3PU www.townmill.org.uk

Until 7 October

PAPER: Unfolding Unfurling Kaori Kato Messums Wiltshire.

Place Farm, Court St, Tisbury, Salisbury, Wiltshire SP3 6LW. E:info@ messumswiltshire.com T:01747 445042.

Until 11 October

Savour the Moment Michael Clark The Jerram Gallery, Half Moon Street, Sherborne, Dorset DT9 3LN. www.jerramgallery.com.

11 October - 26 November

Mysterious Adventures: Paintings by David Brooke David Brooke’s intricate acrylic paintings take you on a magical, mysterious journey. Rotunda Gallery, Lyme Regis Museum, Bridge St, Lyme Regis DT7 3QA, Tues-Sat 10am-5pm, Sun 10am-4pm, www. lymeregismuseum.co.uk

13 October - 11 November

South West Academy of Fine and Applied Arts Open Exhibition 2023 The 24 consecutive annual exhibition showcasing a wide variety of art and price points in four large gallery rooms. Free Admission 10am - 4.30pm. Kennaway House Sidmouth EX10 8NG 01395 515551. www.southwestacademy.org.uk

14 October - 4 November

The Marshwood Arts Awards and John Hubbard Prize The Allsop Gallery, Bridport Arts Centre, 9 South St, Bridport DT6 3NR

Until 15 October

Contemporaries Painter Michael Crowther and sculptor Dave King.

The Shippon Gallery, Hook Farm, Chardstock EX13 7DD Friday Sunday 11am - 4pm or by appointment www: theshippongallery.com

25 October - 5 November

Drawing Sou’-Sou’-West Arts Gallery, Symondsbury Estate, Bridport DT6 6HG. Open daily 10:30-4:30. Free admission & parking. Contact 01308 301326 www.sousouwest.co.uk

27 October - 5 November

Ever Present at The Malthouse Gallery, Lyme Regis 10am to 5pm daily at The Malthouse Gallery, Town Mill Courtyard, Lyme Regis, Dorset DT7 3PU.

27 October - 15 November

34 The Marshwood Vale Magazine October 2023 Email info@marshwoodvale.com Tel. 01308 423031

Vanessa Bowman and Mhairi McGregor at The Jerram Gallery, Half Moon Street, Sherborne, Dorset DT9 3LN. www.jerramgallery.com.

Until 28 October

THG Open 2023 Open submission exhibition showcasing the rich talent of both established and emerging contemporary visual artists living in the South West. Tuesday – Saturday, 10am – 5pm. Thelma Hulbert Gallery, Dowell St, Honiton EX14 1LX thelmahulbert.com. 01404 45006.

28 October - 26 November

SSW Winter Open Sou’-Sou’-West Arts Gallery, Symondsbury Estate, Bridport DT6 6HG. Open daily 10:30-4:30. Free admission & parking. Contact 01308 301326 www.sousouwest.co.uk

Until 29 October

The Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition.

Dorset Museum, High West Street, Dorchester, Dorset DT1 1XA

Until 11 November

Many Moons Marzia Colonna and Fiamma Colonna Montagu. Sladers Yard, 6 West Bay Rd, West Bay, Bridport DT6 4EL. 01308 459511.

Until 1 January 2024

‘Gruppenausstellung’ is a celebration of Hauser & Wirth’s Swiss heritage through a playful presentation of over 20 artists. Durslade Farm, Dropping Lane, Bruton Somerset BA10 0NL.

Until 5 January

Autumn mixed exhibition features over a dozen of our gallery artists, plus four guest artists, including a range of sculptures, oils, and prints. Newcomer Consuelo Child-Villiers brings visionary oils. A nautical theme comes from printmaker Colin Moore and Kim Pragnell’s charcoal deftly contrasts curvature of the boats with the linearity of the yard architecture. Hill forts enter by way of landscape monoprints from Bristol-based Ruth Ander. The Hampshire artist Philippa Headley adds her impressionistic landscape oils to the mix alongside the detailed landscape etchings of Devon-based Mary Gillett. A variety of raku ceramics are with us from London-based artist Alison Wear as well as stonework from Sarah Moore and the fine metal/glass/stone scuptures from Bershire based Johannes von Stumm. Imogen Bittner has some new textile pieces as well as work from London-based guest artist Chloe Fremantle and pieces by local guest artist Sarah Batt. Tincleton Gallery, The Old School House, Tincleton, nr Dorchester, DT2 8QR Opening / performance times: 10AM – 4PM Fri/Sat/Sun/Mon Or by appointment Admission fee: nil. 01305 848 909 http://www.tincletongallery.com.

GALLERIES IN NOVEMBER Live or Online send your gallery details to info@marshwoodvale.com

BY OCTOBER 13th

Tel. 01308 423031 The Marshwood Vale Magazine October 2023 35

Bridport Literary Festival Countryside Highlights BEST selling writer James Rebanks will be interviewing his wife, Helen, when she comes to the Electric Palace on Sunday 5 November for Bridport Literary Festival.

Helen Rebanks has written her own book—her debut— called The Farmer’s Wife: My Life in Days, in which she shares the joys, wonder and the grind of daily life, taking the reader from her grandma’s farmhouse table on a journey of selfdiscovery to the Lake District home where she lives with James, their four children and a plethora of animals.

In a recent interview with Kate Kellaway in The Observer, Rebanks’ quiet wisdom and goodness is coupled with a fire for telling it as it is, from the perspective of a farmer’s wife.

‘Farming is going through a huge challenge with the government, post-Brexit,’ she says in the article. ‘Since the 1950s, farmers have been encouraged to produce, produce, produce and have been supported. But then came the catastrophe of foot-and-mouth [disease] and there was rebuilding for some; others went out of business. Farmers have relied on EU subsidies which, however imperfect, were at least a system—basic payment for the land you farmed. But that has been incrementally reduced year on year, so farmers’ income keeps coming further down.’

On Tuesday 7 November at 2pm, nature writer Keggie Carew will be at Bridport’s Bull Hotel, talking about her book, Beastly: A New History of Animals and Us. Beastly is the 40,000-year story of our changing kinship with the animal world—from the smallest microbe to the largest creature that ever lived.

Isabella Tree returns to the literary festival on Saturday 11 November to talk about The Book Of Wilding: A Practical Guide to Rewilding Big and Small.

The Kenneth Allsop Memorial Talk is at the Electric Palace at 12 noon.

Chris Packham describes the book as ‘the definitive wildlife survival manual’, Packham’s stepdaughter Megan McCubbin issues a call to arms for us all to join the battle against extinction in An Atlas of Endangered Species. She will be speaking at the Electric Palace on Saturday 11 November at 4pm.

The 19th Bridport Literary Festival takes place from 5-11 November in venues all around the town. For more information visit bridlit.com - Tickets available online or from the box office at Bridport Tourist Information Centre on 01308 424901.

36 The Marshwood Vale Magazine October 2023 Email info@marshwoodvale.com Tel. 01308 423031

Tel. 01308 423031 The Marshwood Vale Magazine October 2023 37

Aid worker novel

by Crewkerne man FALLING Night is a unique aid worker novel set in the 1990s in a fictional African country, based on author Phil Clarke’s experiences that led him from aid work to becoming an independent war crimes investigator. The story uses suspense and anticipation rather than graphic violence to create a gripping thriller that will take you on a journey into the reality of humanitarian aid in some of Africa’s recent conflict zones.

Phil was brought up in Crewkerne, and was educated at its primary, middle, and comprehensive schools before doing A-levels at Yeovil College. After studying engineering at university, he volunteered in 1991 on an expedition to study Tanzania’s tropical dry forests. He then ran a bush camp before coordinating the research program, and in the process learned the natural history of these forests in sufficient detail to co-author and co-edit the book Coastal Forests of Eastern Africa (published by IUCN in 2000). While in Tanzania, Phil met a team from the French aid agency Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), and then joined the organisation as a logistician/administrator. He was posted to Somalia in 1994, shortly after the Black Hawk Down incident, and then to Rwanda, Zaire/DR Congo, Ivory Coast, Liberia, and Lebanon before becoming the executive director of the Danish branch of MSF for nearly nine years.

In 2006, during his last year with MSF, Phil founded a war crimes investigation agency, Bloodhound, and asked a satellite analyst to document the massive displacement of civilians from an oil concession in South Sudan that belonged to a Swedish company, Lundin. This information was presented together with a list of recorded attacks that had happened in that oil field to a Dutch organisation ECOS, who then produced the report Unpaid Debt that was released in June 2010. Two weeks later, the Swedish State Prosecutor for International War Crimes launched a criminal investigation that has resulted in an 80,000+ page indictment against the company’s bosses. They were brought to trial on the 5th September 2023 for complicity in war crimes; the court case will run for 2.5 years and will be the largest in Swedish history. It is also the first time anywhere in the world that a major company is being prosecuted for such crimes since the trial of Nazi industrialists at Nuremberg in 1948.

Falling Night charts Phil’s experiences that led him to document and thereby expose war crimes. His aim was to write as realistic a story as possible, including the ups and downs of aid work, team conflicts, the struggle with family and friends who don’t want you to leave, plus the difficulties of reintegrating when you get back. Surprisingly, only some five aid worker novels have ever been released in English by a professional publisher, probably because aid workers usually write memoirs.

Phil continues to direct Bloodhound, and spends three months every year in Crewkerne.

Falling Night by Phil Clarke Published by Ambassador International 2023 Paperback. £15.99 from Blackwell’s etc. (includes post and packaging ISBN 9781649603449.

38 The Marshwood Vale Magazine October 2023 Email info@marshwoodvale.com Tel. 01308 423031

Tribute time in Dorchester

BUDDY Holly and the Cricketers come to Dorchester’s Hardye Theatre with a show that will have you saying, ‘Oh Boy!’ Buddy Holly and the Cricketers is a breathtaking live show that has entertained audiences across the globe and is guaranteed to have everyone singing along and dancing in the aisles.

The band shot to fame as guests on BBC One’s Saturday night live programme The One and Only, hosted by Graham Norton, which endorsed them as the most popular Buddy Holly act in the UK. Every hit by the iconic master of rock and roll is here—That’ll Be the Day, Peggy Sue, Heartbeat, It Doesn’t Matter Any More, Raining in my Heart and many others. Dorchester’s Hardye Theatre, 7.30pm on Saturday 7 October.

Later in the month there’s something special for Genesis and Phil Collins fans.

In its fifth year and with a brand-new show, Chris Hayward and his world class ten-piece band bring you Seriously Collins—a genuine tribute to the biggest artist of our generation.

Packed with hits and fan favourites, this twohour live extravaganza will be the ultimate Phil Collins and Genesis experience—including of course the double drum kit duets. Featuring In the Air Tonight, Another Day in Paradise, Easy Lover, Against All Odds, Invisible Touch, Follow You Follow me, I Can’t Dance and Sussudio—Seriously Collins is the show that fans deserve.

Seriously Collins is on Friday 20 October. For more information and to book see www.dorchestersarts. org.uk.

Joyful colour in Sherborne gallery

T

he Jerram Gallery’s exhibition from 28th October – 15th November will showcase an exciting selection of new paintings by the highly popular artists Vanessa Bowman and Mhairi McGregor, who will be in the Gallery on the opening day of the exhibition.

Whilst unique in style and appearance, three things unite Bowman and McGregor as painters: their passion for rich bold colours; their playful confident abstraction of reality; and their use of form, pattern and shape to re-present their subjects. Both artists also tend to study flower still lives and landscapes, all be it with very different results.

Mhairi McGregor was born in 1971 and studied at Glasgow School of Art, after which she spent time painting in Australia.

Her emotional and spontaneous response to her subjects, such as landscapes and flower still lives, come through in her paintings.

The immediacy of initial sketches is developed into more abstract work with McGregor’s characteristic use of bold colour blocks and rich impasto paint surfaces. ‘I never want to lose sight completely of what it was that inspired me to paint a particular scene. I love colour, especially layers of colour on top of one another which gives both a depth of paint and sometimes a glimpse of what was there before.’ McGregor has been awarded a number of prizes and scholarships and has exhibited through-out the United Kingdom, including at the Royal Academy in London; and the Royal Scottish Academy, the Royal Scottish Society of Painters in Watercolour, and Royal Glasgow Institute in Scotland.

Vanessa Bowman was born in 1970 to a family with a longstanding artistic tradition. Her interests and abilities in the visual arts flourished in a stimulating and supportive environment rich in the cultural influ-ences of Europe. Bowman seeks inspiration for her paintings and textile designs in the sensual qualities of colour and pattern abundant in many of her favourite sources such as Classical architecture, the market stalls and bazaars of Istanbul, Venice and Paris, and the rich palette of an English garden. She has exhibited with the Royal Institute of Watercolorists and the Pastel Society at London’s Mall Galleries, where she won the prestigious Daler Rowney Best Young Artist in Pastels in 1995 and 1996. In 2022 she was invited to be the Artist in Residence at Marchmont House, Berwickshire.

This exciting exhibition will be accompanied by an illustrated catalogue and promises to be a sensual display of joyful colour and a clever use of form to celebrate and explore the world around us.

Vanessa Bowman and Mhairi McGregor 28th October – 15th November 2023 The Jerram Gallery, Half Moon Street, Sherborne, Dorset, DT9 3LN UK. Open Tuesday - Saturday 9.30am - 5pm. 01935 815261 info@ jerramgallery.com

Mhairi McGregor, Montady South of France. Oil on canvas, £4,000

Vanessa Bowman, The Garden, Full Summer Oil on card, £1,950

Mhairi McGregor, Tulips Oil on canvas, £4,600

Vanessa Bowman, Nasturtiums and Fish Jug Oil on card, £1,950

Tel. 01308 423031 The Marshwood Vale Magazine October 2023 39

October PREVIEW

Firelight Trio will light up the Dorset night with their dazzling folk music

A tapestry of European folk

VILLAGES THE Artsreach autumn programme gets under way with a visit by the Scottish folk group Firelight Trio, bringing their blend of music drawn from across European traditions, to Buckland Newton village hall on Saturday 7th October and Drimpton village hall on Sunday 8th, both at 7.30pm.

With more than 25 years of experience as professional musicians in bands including Moishe’s Bagel, Gavin Marwick’s Journeyman and more, Firelight Trio’s repertoire is built on a bedrock of European folk music, encompassing both traditional material and original compositions which are strongly influenced by the band members’ individual, diverse and broad musical experience.

Combining the many gifts of Phil Alexander’s accordion, Gavin Marwick’s fiddle and Ruth Morris’s Swedish nyckelharpa, Firelight Trio weaves a rich tapestry that ranges from lively Swedish polskas and Scottish reels to lilting French waltzes, toe-tapping klezmer and dazzling original tunes.

As well as the concerts, there will also be a folk dance workshop in Buckland Newton on Saturday 7th, from 4.30 to 6pm. Firelight Trio and their resident dance expert Ruth Morris will lead the Balfolk dance workshop, including European dances such as the Chapeloise, Mazurka and Schottishe, with live accompaniment from Firelight Trio.

It is open to everyone, all ages, and no previous experience required—book on 01300 345455 There is a third concert, at Cranborne’s Cecil Memorial Hall on Friday 6th October.

Violin-piano duo

TOURING RISING star violinist Emmanuel Bach and pianist Julian Trevelyan come to Bridport, Ilminster and Crewkerne for the October series of Concerts in the West, on Friday 6th and Saturday 7th October.

The young British-born violinist has been gaining increasing recognition, as a chamber, concerto and solo performer, in the UK, Europe, USA and South Africa, as

40 The Marshwood Vale Magazine October 2023 Email info@marshwoodvale.com Tel. 01308 423031

Luke Wright celebrates 25 years as a performance poet

well as broadcasting on BBC Radio 3. Maxim Vengerov described his playing of the Brahms concerto as “a superb rendition...a deep and emotional performance.” Bach has also performed as co-soloist with Anne-Sophie Mutter in JS Bach’s Double Concerto.

Julian Trevelyan performs regularly throughout Europe and the UK. In the current season he has given five performances of Bartók’s 1st piano concerto with Musikkollegium Winterthur, and two performances of Lutoslawski’s Variations on a Theme by Paganini for piano and orchestra with I Pomeriggi Musicali in Milan. His solo recitals have included performances of Beethoven’s Diabelli Variations in festivals in London, Cambridge, Munich, Paris, Switzerland and Vienna.

The programme for the Concerts in the West tour includes works by Mozart, Britten, Shostakovich, Brahms and Ravel. The three concerts begin with the regular coffee date at Bridport Arts Centre on Friday 6th at 11.30am, and an evening recital at Ilminster Arts Centre. The final concert is at Crewkerne Dance House on Saturday 7th at 7.30pm.

Performance poet’s silver jubilee

BRIDPORT LAUGHTER through tears is my favourite emotion, says Truvy, the character played by Dolly Parton in Steel Magnolias. Southern fried sentimentality might not seem an obvious parallel for spoken word performer Luke Wright, but expect some tears as well as laughter in his latest show,

as he celebrates his silver jubilee as a performance poet at Bridport Arts Centre on Friday 27th October, at 7.30pm.

Over 25 years, Luke Wright has built up a reputation for being one of Britain’s most popular live poets. He has won an unprecedented four Saboteur Awards (national awards for spoken word), a Stage Award, and a Fringe First. He’s sold out shows across the world and regularly tours with John Cooper Clarke and The Libertines.

This year, thwarted in his attempts to hold a street party by the philistines on the council and unable to shift the over-ordered commemorative plates, Wright does what a poet does best, and takes a deep dive into himself. What follows is his most confessional show to date.

Luke Wright was adopted as a baby and grew up believing that his adoption “wasn’t a big thing.” But one night he idly stumbled across his birth mother on Facebook. This window to a world that might have been his has thrown up deep questions about privilege, familial love and destiny.

This show is an excavation of lives lived and not lived.

Wright navigates his audience through a warm and honest hour of poems and stand-up with the directness and pathos that has won him a huge fan-base, often among people who would not call themselves fans of poetry.

With some wild experiments in form, a nervous kitten called Sir John Betjeman and a healthy smattering of drum’n’bass, Wright manages to navigate some heartwrenching material and keep the laughs coming.

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October PREVIEW

Spiltmilk is dancing into Dorset

Pianist Gilda Cruz is coming to Tincleton

Special visit by Brazilian pianist

TINCLETON BRAZILIAN pianist Gilda Cruz, who now lives in Portugal, will be flying in specially from Lisbon for two recitals at The Old Schoolhouse, Tincleton near Dorchester, on Friday 13th and Saturday 14th October.

Her programme, the same on both evenings, features works by JS Bach, Robert Schumann, Josef Haydn, Claudio Santoro and Frederic Chopin. The concerts begin at 8pm.

Gilda Oswaldo Cruz has played chamber music in Spain, Portugal and France in concerts with the Catalan cellist Josep Bassal and the Swiss percussionist Martin Hug. She has taught courses at the Universidade de Campinas and at the Musik Hochschule in Stuttgart and has recorded several CDs.

Marathon movie mash-up

YETMINSTER & WINFRITH NEWBURGH DESERT Island Flicks, a dance theatre show by Spiltmilk, coming to Dorset with Artsreach on Saturday 7th October at Yetminster’s Jubilee hall and Sunday 8th at Winfrith Newburgh village hall, is described as a “mashed up movie marathon”—blockbuster, adventure and rom com rolled into one.

The show sees two leading ladies reimagine, remake and spoof 90 of the most memorable movie moments of all time, taking on all the lead roles, stunts and special effects!

From timeless classics to modern marvels, Desert Island Flicks celebrates how iconic characters and thrilling plot twists have captured imaginations the world over, bringing people together to laugh, cry, and cheer along in a room full of strangers.

Somewhere between a dance performance, sketch

show, a night at the movies and an epic game of charades, Spiltmilk celebrate life lessons learned from the big screen, all set to a sensational soundtrack. The performances begin at 7.30pm.

The story of Enigma

DORCHESTER THE story of Bletchley Park, the codebreakers, Alan Turing and the Enigma machine has become relatively wellknown since the release of previously classified archives, the film The Imitation Game and the television series, The Bletchley Circle.

But it is a story that continues to fascinate, and no-one knows more about this crucially important Second World War story than Dr Mark Baldwin, one of the world’s foremost cipher experts, who brings his one-man show, Codebreakers—The Story of Enigma, to the theatre at Thomas Hardye School, Dorchester, on Thursday 26th October.

The Germans entrusted their secret communications to an ingenious encryption machine—Enigma—which was portable, easily operated and could be set up in millions of ways as the codes used were changed every 24 hours. How to break it?

Mark Baldwin has given countless presentations on the codebreakers, Enigma, Bletchley Park and the history of cryptography; as well as presentations on Special Operations. Richly illustrated with slides, this will be a fascinating evening for anyone with an interest in the mysterious world of codebreaking.

The illustrated talk has an additional, exciting prop in the form of an original Enigma machine.

Night flyers and spooky wanderers

LYME REGIS THE unique talents and imagination of the three performers who call themselves The Paper Cinema bring their magical storytelling and pictures to the Marine Theatre at Lyme Regis on Friday 13th October at 7.30pm.

42 The Marshwood Vale Magazine October 2023 Email info@marshwoodvale.com Tel. 01308 423031

The Paper Cinema brings spooky tales to Lyme Regis

The Paper Cinema—two puppeteers and a multiinstrumentalist—create extraordinary, magical worlds with vivid pen and ink drawings, puppetry and a treasure trove of acoustic and electronic sounds.

Their latest show gathers favourite short stories, including the dream-like Night Flyer, humorous Devil in Cornwall, spooky Wanderer and Edgar Allan Poe’s King Pest.

The trio have returned to their ‘out-of-a suitcase’ origins to delight you with atmospheric tales of ghosts, dreams and the supernatural.

Chaucer and saucier

VILLAGES THE veteran Cornish actor David Mynne, an Artsreach favourite with village hall audiences, returns to Dorset in October, with his uniquely hilarious and vivid oneman version of Chaucer’s— at Piddletrenthide Memorial Hall on Friday 13th October, Corfe Castle village hall on Saturday 14th and Wootton Fitzpaine village hall on Sunday 15th, all at 7.30pm.

Here’s The Canterbury Arms, an olde English Inne, Infamous around these parts for villainy and sin.

The floor is caked in sawdust, for soaking up the spit, And the air is thick with stories told with wisdom, guile and wit.

Some stories are romantic, some are bawdy, others scary And there are tales about the devil that should make you oh so wary, Some are beautifully poetic and some a little coarser; A medieval mash-up from the pen of Geoffrey Chaucer!

Revered as one of the most important works in English literature, The Canterbury Tales paints an ironic and critical portrait of 14th century English society. All of life is here in these bawdy, funny and sometimes shocking short stories.

David Mynne, whose previous Artsreach tours have included A Christmas Carol, Great Expectations and The Odyssey, brings his usual irreverence, wit and silliness to his latest show. This is Chaucer... but not as you think you know it!

Carmen tells her story

PORTESHAM WIDELY regarded as one of the most accessible and popular of all operas, Bizet’s Carmen gets a pocket opera make-over when CarmenCo brings a vibrant reworking of the blood-stained Spanish story of passion and revenge to Portesham village hall on Friday 20th October.

Intertwining music from Bizet’s opera with other Spanish and Spanish-inspired works, by composers and writers including Boccherini, Garcia-Lorca, Granados, Ravel, Delibes and Albeniz, this is Carmen’s story, told from her point of view.

Dare you consult the cards with this headstrong gypsy?

What does she think of the men in her story? Did she foresee her gruesome ending? Does she like Bizet’s opera?

The performance features flautist and mezzo soprano Emily Andrews, and David Massey and Francisco Correa on guitars. CarmenCo will also be at Sixpenny Handley village hall, on Sunday 22nd at 4pm.

The buzz in the Beehive

HONITON OCTOBER at Honiton’s Beehive centre brings an exciting series of concerts, beginning on Thursday 5th with The Haar, an Irish folk quartet that features the formidable singing talent of All-Ireland Scór na nÓg winner Molly Donnery, with Cormac Byrne, Adam Summerhayes and Murray Grainger.

While recognisably born of the traditional music that all four grew up with, The Haar are unapologetic in pushing the boundaries to create a unique and compelling sound.

The origins of the band go back to a chance meeting between Adam, Cormac and Molly at a session at the Craiceann Bodhrán Festival.

This resulted in an improvised performance recorded by the shipwreck of the Plassey on the west coast of Ireland. It was to become typical of the unique ‘live reactive composition’ that characterises their music. With the addition of master accordionist Murray Grainger, they

Tel. 01308 423031 The Marshwood Vale Magazine October 2023 43

Screen Time with Nic Jeune

Top Six at the Flix The Purbeck Film Festival which will be 25 years old next year is on at various venues around Dorset in October.

Bridport Electric Palace Blue Jean (2022) A supremely accomplished debut feature from writer-director Georgia Oakley, Blue Jean captures a specific moment in British history with almost uncanny accuracy. The Observer.

Wendy Ide. Love according to Dalva (2022) Made with painstaking care and sensitivity, this debut feature from Belgian film-maker Emmanuelle Nicot is about a child victim of grooming and rape who takes the side of her abuser; this is a 12-year-old girl called Dalva (Zelda Samson), whose father is arrested at the start. It’s an intense film about trauma and its devastating consequences. The Guardian.

Cath Clarke.

Bridport Arts Centre.

The Nettle Dress (2023) Dylan Howitt’s poetic documentary can be counted as one of the best cinematic surprises of 2023. Film Review. Mansel Stimpson.

Odeon Dorchester Blackberry (2023) It is a loving—and highly entertaining—ode to the outcasts who dream of nothing more than a life filled with fixing whirring gadgets and afternoons spent in “Star Trek” matinees. The Playlist. Rafaela Sales Ross.

Cineworld Weymouth Killers of the Flower Moon (2023) This is an utterly absorbing film, a story that Scorsese sees as a secret history of American power, a hidden violence epidemic polluting the water table of humanity. The Guardian.

Peter Bradshaw.

Netflix Fair Play (2023) By the final jaw-dislocating cut to black, you’ll have no idea what just thwacked you.

Indiewire. Ryan Lattanzio.

entered the studio at the end of 2019 to record their first album, a collection of traditional Irish songs tackling love, poverty and oppression.

The latest album, Where Old Ghosts Meet, has had rave reviews and paved the way for festival appearances at Shrewsbury, Beardy Folk and other prestigious stages.

On 6th October, the Beehive hosts The Unravelling Wilburys, a brilliant group of musicians celebrating the songs and music of The Travelling Wilburys—Roy Orbison, George Harrison, Bob Dylan, Tom Petty and Jeff Lynne.

The show is a combination of brilliant musicianship and tongue-in-cheek humour. The set list includes End Of The Line, Handle With Care, The Devil’s Been Busy, Last Night, Tweeter And The Monkey Man, She’s My Baby, Heading For The Light, Pretty Woman, I Won’t Back Down, Mr Tambourine Man, Make You Feel My Love and Here Comes The Sun. Genesis Visible Touch, at Honiton on Thursday 19th, is an authentic and impressive tribute to Phil Collins-era Genesis. The show marks the 40th anniversary of the band’s 1983 studio album, Shapes.

Fairport Convention, coming to the Beehive Centre on Friday 20th, have an even longer pedigree—and are still very much alive and singing. The band— current line-up founding member Simon Nicol on guitar and vocals, Dave Pegg on bass guitar, Ric Sanders on violin and Chris Leslie on fiddle, mandolin bouzouki and vocals—have been entertaining music lovers for more than half a century (2022 was their 55th anniversary!)

They have won a BBC Lifetime Achievement Award, and Radio 2 listeners voted their ground-breaking 1969 album Liege and Lief “the most influential folk album of all time.” Their story has been celebrated with television documentaries on BBC Four and Sky Arts.

Their 2023 autumn tour will feature a mix of long-established Fairport favourites and some surprises from their back catalogue as well as new songs and including their latest album, Shuffle & Go, released just before lockdown in 2020.

Keepsake tales

CHETNOLE & SHILLINGSTONE PERFORMER James Richardson conjures stories from his memories of the old, horse-drawn “rag-and-bone” man passing down his childhood street, and from his family’s Romany and Traveller history. He brings his one-man show, The Curiouser Man, to Chetnole village hall on Saturday 28th October, and Shillingstone’s Portman Hall on Sunday 29th, both at 7.30pm.

The Curiouser Man asks if you would trade your curiosity to hear a well-worn, tinkered-with tale? He has been gathering curios from neither here nor there, while on the long road that lies between this and that: each one is a keepsake wrapped in a tale that speaks to him of something that is true.

This is comically quirky and beguiling storytelling that re-imagines traditional folk stories, with a flair for theatricality and illusion. At its heart, this show celebrates the art of oral storytelling found in the Travelling community, where news was traditionally passed between places and people.

Wild child to with child

BRIDPORT BACK in the noughties, Sophie McCartney would have said she was not the maternal type—blink and as the decades morph into her 30s, the award-winning comedian finds she has evolved from wild child to with child (or rather children).

It’s a journey she explores in her new stand-up show, Sophie McCartney is Tired and Tested, coming to the Electric Palace at Bridport on Friday 6th October.

From perky tits to killing nits, join Sophie as she ventures into the perilous world of parenthood. Best known for her wickedly accurate insights into adulting, Sophie thought by the time she became a ‘proper’ grown up (someone who likes olives) life would all be figured out.

How very wrong she was. Feeling like an out-of-depth-teen trapped in the slightly sagging skin of a 30-something mum-of-three, she wonders why no-one told her what to really expect after she was expecting? Will her belly button ever go back to ‘normal’? Why do you need a degree in collapsing travel cots? And does she have what it takes to stop her current cereal eaters from becoming future serial killers?

44 The Marshwood Vale Magazine October 2023 Email info@marshwoodvale.com Tel. 01308 423031

The Young Lit Fix

Wonderfully Wired Brains: An introduction to the world of neurodiversity

By Louise Gooding Illustrated by Ruth Burrows Published by Dorling Kindersly £12.99 Hardback Reviewed by Nicky Mathewson Travel through the seasons with Lyngo Theatre

Sophie’s debut book, Tired and Tested: The Wild Ride into Parenthood, topped the Sunday Times bestseller list, thanks to its laugh-out-loud relatability, particularly for other knackered parents. She has won a Funny Women award, has more than 250 million views on her social media channels and is about to launch her first comedy novel, Mother Hens.

An enchanting seasonal story

POWERSTOCK BIRDY is hiding in his egg, waiting for the warmth of spring—join Percy and April of Lyngo Theatre to find out more, in their enchanting show, Egg and Spoon, a perfect introduction to the magic of theatre for children, coming to Powerstock Hut on Thursday 26th October at 10.30am.

In this interactive journey through the seasons, the young audience can take part in games—blowing leaves off the tree, sleeping under star blankets in Winter, and waking up for a vibrant butterfly party.

The show turns children into spontaneous performers, encouraging them to be enthusiastic and playful. With beautifully handcrafted props and a vivid story, Egg and Spoon is an interactive adventure that captivates the very young, celebrating the gifts of nature and the changing seasons.

Suitable for ages one to four years, Egg and Spoon is also being staged at Sixpenny Handley village hall on Friday 27th, at 10.30am.

Swing by the sea

LYME REGIS SWING From Paris—who improbably hail from the Cotswolds—bring their infectious gypsy jazz to the Marine Theatre at Lyme Regis on Sunday 22nd October for an evening of Jazz by the Sea. The quartet of violin, two guitars and double bass are inspired by the great swing bands of the 1930s and 40s, presenting their own versions of music by Gershwin, Piazzolla, John Lewis, Django Reinhardt and Stéphane Grappelli.

Founder member Fenner Curtis is a classically-trained violinist based in Cheltenham. Struck by the music of Django Reinhardt at a young age—when his youth orchestra desk partner gave him a cassette of Stéphane Grappelli—he has been hooked ever since.

Guitarist Andy Bowen takes inspiration from the great jazz guitarists of the 30s and 40s, chiefly Django Reinhardt, Charlie Christian and George Barnes. He has a jazz guitar YouTube channel and splits his time between performing with Swing from Paris and Moscow Drug Club, who have a huge following in the Dorset-Somerset-Bristol area.

GPW

WHAT do you know about your brain and how it works? Have you ever stopped to think about how it is the source of all the things you do, think and say?

This is a beautifully illustrated and easy to read guide to understanding your brain, how it works and how it might function differently to someone else’s brain. Louise Gooding tells us about the brain basics, the three main parts of the brain and their functions. They are easy to understand descriptions partnered with bright and clear illustrations and diagrams. She looks at how chemicals and hormones affect our emotions and our response to external stimuli.

Once the general outline of the brain is complete, Louise gives it some context by talking about the diversity of brains and the diversity of people. She talks about Dyslexia, ADHD, Anxiety, Processing Disorders, Sleep disorders, Tics, OCD, Seizures and Epilepsy, Synesthesia, Dyspraxia, Autism and masking. She includes a Neurodiversity time line which includes brilliant brains throughout history and then finishes with some contemporary people from different backgrounds with wonderfully wired brains and what they have achieved.

This book is absolutely fabulous and much needed in our modern world. It provides children and adults with the language needed to identify differences with positivity and promotes inclusion in a really fun way.

You do not have to be neurodivergent to enjoy this book, it is perfect for everyone! Especially those aged 7-9

10% off for Marshwood Vale readers at The Bookshop on South Street, Bridport.

01308 422964 www.dorsetbooks.com Tel. 01308 423031 The Marshwood Vale Magazine October 2023 45

Health&Environment

Services& Classified

Natural England grant to fund ambitious Species Recovery Programme across Dorset

SITUATIONS VACANT

Garden work, strimming, mowing, logging, topping for small fields, landscaping work. Tel. Lorca Warner.

07765666775

Nov 23

RESTORATION FURNITURE. Antique Restoration and Bespoke Furniture.

Furniture large and small carefully restored and new commissions undertaken. City and Guilds qualified.

Experienced local family firm. Phil Meadley 01297 560335

Dec 23

TUITION Piano, violin, theory tuition at your home.

Highly qualified teacher.

Adults and children welcome. Beginners to advanced. Dr Thomas Gold 07917 835781. Dec 23 Fly orchid, great crested newt, ladybird spider and sand lizard are included in the ten ‘Priority Species’ to benefit from practical interventions.

D

orset Wildlife Trust has been awarded a share of a £14.5 million grant by Natural England as part of the government commitment to reduce species at risk of extinction in the UK. The grant will help recover some of Dorset’s most rare and threatened species—from the sand lizard and lapwing to the great crested newt, greater horseshoe bat and the ladybird spider.

The Dorset Species Recovery Programme will implement a series of practical interventions to create and improve the habitat for a set of ten specially selected ‘Priority Species’ across 11 Dorset Wildlife Trust nature reserves in Dorset. These ‘Priority Species’ are threatened or near threatened and have a need for urgent action if they are to survive. The ten species are: pillwort, marsh clubmoss, sand lizard, heath tiger beetle, lapwing, dingy mocha, great crested newt, ladybird spider, fly orchid and greater horseshoe bat.

The programme will benefit wildlife across Dorset. Across heathland reserves, the project will involve creating dry heathland scrapes to enable the sand lizard to create a burrow in which to lay its eggs and wet scrapes for pillwort and marsh club moss to establish itself. Over in West Dorset, ponds will be created and restored at Kingcombe and Powerstock Common to benefit the great crested newt and in the north of Dorset, woodland management will aim to provide more habitat for the fly orchid.

Andrew Pollard, Conservation Director at Dorset Wildlife Trust said: ‘We are thrilled to have been successful in our application for the Natural England’s Species Recovery Grant.

Dorset Wildlife Trust is in a unique position to make a sustainable difference to the current downward population trends of these species in our nature reserves across the county. The planned programme of habitat management works will be targeted at the ten ‘Priority Species but we have identified that it will naturally make a significant contribution to the fortunes of a great many more.’

For news from Dorset Wildlife Trust visit www.dorsetwildlifetrust.org.uk/news

FOR SALE Travelux Venture Powerchair. Virtually no maintenance. v.g.c. £650. o.n.o. 01308 863738 Classic LandRover.

Defender 90 (late type 1995), ex-MoD ‘Winterised’, diesel, hardtop. Carefully maintained, recent pumps, radiator, tyres, timing-belt. £10,995 ono. 01404 850798 (messages).

Approx 400 Somerset Trading Co Bridgwater pantiles (all stamped) stored in the dry and in good condition: 15 ½ x 8 inches. Private sale, Marshwood, £2 each to collect. 07753 632237 Wallflowers £7 per 100.

Tel 01460 74572

46 The Marshwood Vale Magazine October 2023 Email info@marshwoodvale.com Tel. 01308 423031

Tel. 01308 423031 The Marshwood Vale Magazine October 2023 47

FOR SALE Ex-display sheds, Stables/field shelters, summerhouses, offices, workshops, agricultural 01935 891195 Dec 23

Petite design Fascinator (Shona design.from Hobbs). Cobalt blue.

Purchased for a wedding. £25. 07909 644454 (Tatworth area).

Bateson S P. / low / frame /tipping / drop / end / trailer / detachable / wooden / sides / ends / £200.00. 01935 812001.

IKEA kitchen butcher’s trolly. Pine wheeled. H x 80cm, W x 60cm, D x 50cm.£10. 01308 423776.

Black and white toy panda bear approx. 24ins tall in good condition looking for a loving friendly home £12. Tel. 01823 480848.

Wilson (club champ) tennis racket with cover, V-good condition.

Slazenger (royal crown) tennis racket with cover. £20.00. Tel 01297 678602.

Bosch Rotak rotary lawnmower Model 34-13.

Near new condition as used only twice. Price £45. Sidmouth. Tel 07831 316536.

Flymo XL500 Honda engined machine. I have two of different ages and was planning to make one good out of two.

Both have a spark but are sold as spares or repair. £50 for the pair. I can send an image. Please call 07479474392 and leave a message and I will message back. Located near Stockland EX13.

Free of charge for collection from Lyme

Regis, approx. 500 single classical music CD’s. Please ring 01297 442793, leave a message if no answer.

E.ON TV power down.

Automatically powers your TV and peripherals on or off. Easy to install, saves energy. £5 01297 599567 07967125801 Axminster.

Leaf Blower/Vacuum/ Mulcher - Draper 230V, 3000W. Rarely used £20 ono. Telephone 01297 442991.

Ercol Windsor sideboard, elm, light finish, 1970s Vintage Gold Label on castors. Very good condition. Photos can be provided £350. Ercol ladderback dining chairs 4 Mid century light golden dawn finish £100. Contact 01297-553064/07770 722099 Seaton area.

Two field gates 7 bar

heavy duty galvanised steel 10 foot £60, 4 foot £40 plus various gate posts Tel 07721 530520.

Copper pipe 15mm diameter, 13 lengths 3 meter long £75, 22mm diameter 4 lengths 3 metres long £45. approx 250 end feed soldered fittings £40.

Tel 07721 530520.

Yamaha Electric Piano YDP-121. Stool, new Headphones. 2 Audio sockets. H 32in, W 55.5in D 19in . Good Condition. £275. 07800 524409.

Olivetti Lettera 32 type writer. Collectable blue November 1971 machine with l32 international key board, originally sold to a lady in Taunton. Delivery note from Olivetti London supplied along with a copy of the original user handbook! Just serviced

and cleaned and new ribbon fitted by Chris at Francis Kay vintage in Exeter. Invoice and test sheet supplied. Lightly used, keys clean and clear. Immaculate body.

Axminster based. £75 07970416021.

Victorian double iron bed, with mattress if wanted. Can send photo if required. Sidmouth 01395 519409.

Victorian double iron bed with mattress if wanted. £135. Tel Sidmouth 01395 519409. Can send photo if required.

Floor tiles, brand new still in boxes. Make is Vives and grey patterned. 15 boxes, 25 tiles each box.

Each tile measures 20cm x 20cm,1 box will cover 1 square metre. £450.00.

If interested call and will

FREE ADS for items under £1,000 This FREE ADS FORM is for articles for sale, where the sale price is under £1000 (Private advertisers only — no trade, motor, animals, firearms etc). Just fill in the form and send it to the Marshwood Vale Magazine, Lower Atrim, Bridport, Dorset DT6 5PX or email the text to info@marshwoodvale.com. Unfortunately due to space constraints there is no guarantee of inclusion of free ads. We reserve the right to withhold advertisements.

For guaranteed classified advertising please use ‘Classified Ads’ form

Name .............................................. Tel. ............................................

Address ................................................................................................

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48 The Marshwood Vale Magazine October 2023 Email info@marshwoodvale.com Tel. 01308 423031

ELECTRICAL

WANTED

CHIMNEY SWEEP

Secondhand tools. All trades and crafts. Old and modern. G. Dawson.

01297 23826. www. secondhandtools.co.uk.

Dec 23

Dave buys all types of tools 01935 428975

Oct 23

Coins wanted. Part or full collections purchased for cash.

Please phone John on 07980 165047 or 01460 62109 Oct 23

Do you have a shed / garage full of old tools, car bits, unfinished projects etc? I buy job-lots of vintage items. Also enamel signs & slot machines & complete collections, 07875677897 Jan 24

Vintage & antique textiles, linens, costume buttons etc. always sought by Caroline Bushell. Tel. 01404 45901.

Feb 24

Stamps & Coins Wanted by collector/investor.

We are keen to purchase small or large collections at this time. Tel: Rod mar 24 07802261339

To advertise here email: info@ marshwoodvale.com

FOR SALE send photo. Bridport area, buyer to collect. 07939822852.

Hanging Bird Table with 2 bird feeders. £20.

4 bird nesting box’s 2 large 2 small ones. £18. Garden Trug and Dibber. £15.

Low Wicker garden or conservatory table with 2 wicker chairs. £16. Can supply photos for the above. Buyer collects.

Call 01297 22603. Seaton.

Cream 3 piece Collins&Hayes suite: Chair +2 seater sofa +3 seater sofa; Collins&Hayes; cream; washable loose covers; buyer collects; 1 castor missing from 3 seater; £600 Call 07771993323.

Branx. Fitness Elite runner pro. Bf-er-5088str treadmill. Only ever used for walking, and not a lot of that. Excellent

condition. For collection only. £380. (ono) Raymonds Hill Axminster.

01297 33889.

Free Approximately 90 trees. Oak. Sweet/horsechestnut. Holly. Hazel. etc.

Tel 01297678602.

Disabled electric wheel chair spare battery in good order fully folding 500 pounds or near offer.

Phone 07866150799 Seaton.

ATCO 24 inch cylinder mower Royale B24R with roller seat suitable bowling green, large lawn. £600.

Tel. 01935 823906.

Apollo Voyager Ladies Bike. Medium Frame.

Straight handlebars. 17 Shimano Gears. Rear pannier rack. Light metallic Green. Hardly used. In good condition. Te:-01935 881118. (Nr Crewkerne, Somerset).

DISTRIBUTION

Tel. 01308 423031 The Marshwood Vale Magazine October 2023 49