I’m not over the hill just yet says calendar snapper Doug

A photographer who discovered an amazing view of Colmers Hill after taking some trees down at his new home has now been producing calendars of it for a decade.

Doug Chalk, who has a distinctive stall at Bridport Market every Wednesday and Saturday, has just launched his 11th calendar, featuring seasonal images of the well-known hill from all angles. He said: “I have rightly been accused by some as being obsessed by that hill! “Well, not many people of 78 find something in life that they enjoy and that keeps them motivated, do they?”

Despite the cost of living increases, the calendar is still priced at £10, and is to be found at Doug’s red gazebo at the top of South Street.

The calendar won Artisan Market Trader 2023 at the

MAKE A DATE: Doug Chalk’s 2024 calendar featuring Colmer’s Hill

Bridport Business Awards. Doug said: “I was a freelance photographer back in the 80s, working mainly in black and white, won many competitions and had a lot of exhibitions in Wiltshire where I lived and worked.

“I didnt want to get into computers and digital so took a back seat (gave up) for about 12-15 years when we moved to Dorset 24 years ago.

“But I was struck by the beauty here and here I am, doing it all again, and loving it!”

Open day at steam centre

Sherborne Steam and Waterwheel Centre is holding an open day on Sunday, July 23 from 11.30am to 3.30pm. The waterwheel and Hindley steam engine will be in operation at the volunteer run site plus presentations and machinery displays. There is wheelchair access to displays but not to the toilet or visitors’ centre. Entry is by donation.

Nature on show

The Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition is coming to Dorset Museum from July 21 to October 29. The exhibition features exceptional images which capture fascinating animal behaviour, spectacular species, and the breathtaking diversity of the natural world.