Marshwood+ March 2023

Marsh wo o d

© Sarah Acton Photograph by Robin Mills

Robin Mills went to West Bay to meet writer, Sarah Acton

One of my earliest memories is of a family holiday in Weymouth. The golden sands stretched out to the glitter of dancing waters at low tide, and I remember sitting on the beach asking some tricky questions, receiving explanations of what time is, and tides are. I love being outdoors and near the sea, and feel lucky that my work as a writer sees me roving along the coastline. My partner, Dan, and I moved to Beer ten years ago, and though I’ve swum, sailed, rowed and daydreamed the Dorset and Devon shores for much of my life, I grew up in the landlocked West Midlands. The school I attended in Solihull no longer exists, now a car park, though I float its Victorian corridors in dreams. We all live with ghosts, and much of my work today explores memory as a multi-dimensional space.

Growing up, I carried the Young Naturalist’s Handbook everywhere, identifying wildlife in my notebook and wandering off with my brothers into gardens, fields, copses and suburban-edgelands that hold hours of exploration. Like most writers, I love reading. As a teenager, my friends and I dressed in vintage frills and velvets from Birmingham Rag Market. We’d encourage each other to memorise poems, and copy the most outrageously romantic lines we could find into letters to each other. All those ink-penned letters with ornate drawings; equal weight given to Joni Mitchell, Leonard Cohen, Wordsworth and Keats. Looking back, this was an early apprenticeship into language and poetics. It was also competitive, adopting gentle swagger that Taliesin might approve of. Inspired by these poets, and taken

© Sarah Acton Photograph by Robin Mills

Sarah Acton

often by my parents to storytelling performances at Solihull library theatre, and to the Royal Shakespeare Theatre in Stratford-upon Avon for school trips, I was writing stories and poetry from a young age.

I studied English and Medieval Studies at Exeter University and remain passionate about Old English and Norse early literature, myth, folk traditions and communal storytelling rooted in place. The performative power and politics of voice in orally transmitted story still holds sway over me.

One summer I finished exams before everyone else and took a dinghy sailing course in Salcombe, then spent four summers teaching sailing there. With friends from the sailing club, when we weren’t sailing, we water-skied or hand-lined mackerel off the back of a borrowed yacht at sunsets. Tall ships sometimes sailed into Salcombe harbour to moor up together, and Breton musicians soundtracked the skies with accordions, belly-laughter and song. I’d stay up all night on deck listening and I fell deeply in love with wooden boats and sea shanties.

During an Erasmus year in Brussels studying European Medieval Studies, a fellow student introduced me to art history. Each week we visited the Musée Royaux des Beaux-Arts and immersed ourselves in one painting. By the time we left, the experience of the painting was as real as anything outside the museum.

After university I worked for a year in the rural mountains of Yamagata, Northern Japan. It was a challenge as I didn’t speak Japanese when I arrived, and little when I left, though I understood and could get by, and there was karaoke when all else failed. I wrote for local magazines and papers. When I returned, I trained in law and worked at a shipping firm in London. The Admiralty court had a gravitas and glamour that was interspersed with site visits to container ships wearing a hard hat, but city life wasn’t for me.

I sailed around the world and rounded Capes Horn and Good Hope; after this you become ‘a Cape Horner’. Chay Blyth’s roundthe-world race for amateur sailors was known as the world’s toughest because it went the wrong way, against winds and tides. For me, it was about encountering wilderness; elements and seas. The longest of seven legs was 49 days in the Southern ocean. Rules change at sea. Each day is divided into watches and never a break from discipline. We were eighteen crew in two watches and hot-bunking, everything pared down to the absolute minimum, with prolonged

periods of being constantly hot and sweaty, or cold and damp. I’ve never been so physically exhausted before or since, you have to dig deep to manage each step or task.

There were hours sat on the rails with our legs over the side, spray breaking over us, weighed down in weather gear, and clipped to the boat with a harness for survival. The endless motion, the roll of the vast and deep sea, the grey Southern Ocean, the soaring albatross and tiny birds blown off course, were all part of waking-life as much as the slipping in and out of liminal dreaming. There was a strong sense of joint endeavour as we were racing, but how to endure periods of extreme isolation and stress…how does anyone deal with this? I began to repeat to myself all of the things that I valued in life, named everything I hoped to do in the world. I returned with urgency to make my way as a jobbing writer.

Moving to Bristol after the race, I joined an online course in professional writing at Falmouth University to learn the tools of the trade, and from this time was writing, curating, and running events. I also helped The Cube Microplex to purchase their building premises from the landlord. It feels good to know that this is now a protected arts space, come what may. The Cube was a vibrant arts community, and it was exciting to be part of playful collaborations, experimental happenings and fun. I met Dan at the Cube and we fell in love. Surrounded by artists, I realised that a writer doesn’t need to be one thing.

I started gig rowing in Bristol, and have since taken part in three world championships in the Isles of Scilly including two for the Lyme Regis Gig Club. I haven’t rowed much since Covid, but I love the metronome-rhythm of oars-in together.

When we moved to Beer I focused on writing and arts projects with and for communities for nature connection and wellbeing. I ran workshops, retreats and events as Black Ven Poet (Black Ven is a cliff near Lyme), and received commissions from Dorset AONB and Stepping into Nature, local museums and libraries. Wild Writing was a commission from Activate Performing Arts that also helped me through lockdown, while other projects for communities include: Museum at Home for Lyme Regis Museum, Environment and Me for People First Dorset, Talking Tent for Dorset AONB and Seasons of Stories books and podcasts available from Libraries BorrowBox.

Following a writing residency at Portland Museum in 2019, I facilitated discussion cafes there for four years to share stories of

former quarrymen, and recorded our conversations. I’ve learned by listening that continuity, dialect and folk tradition shapes collective identity, and that memory is connected to place.

Using verbatim scripts from these recordings and island folklore, I wrote a community play, Heart of Stone, performed outdoors by the Portland Players at b-side festival, then toured across Dorset with funding from the Arts Council England. The Portland Players are now making new work, which makes me very proud. I’m part of their next community play inspired by Shakespeare’s Tempest, co-writing an outdoor play to be performed in September.

Heart of Stone has had ripple effects and continues to grow. Our oral history legacy now includes a film by Rob Jayne and podcasts by Tom Hughes capturing and celebrating the quarrymen conversations. These will be launched at an event at Royal Manor Theatre on 24th March with free screenings, then archived at Portland Museum and the Dorset History Centre.

In a similar way, my book recently published by Little Toller, Seining Along Chesil, celebrates traditions of Dorset fishing communities and seining families, with oral histories and stories gathered at events and interviews. The book tour is currently on the road to keep the conversations going and trigger more shared memories, but it also means I spend more time on and near Chesil beach, where I take time out to walk the Fleet while enjoying community engagement. The work keeps growing. By remembering the past together, we shape the future.

Meanwhile I’m planning to write a solo performance later this year based on memory and place, called Bard by Nature After a recent Masters at Dartington Arts School, I’m exploring traditional storytelling techniques and oral memory to deepen connection to mythology and landscape in my writing. In this and all projects, I record, celebrate, reflect, reimagine, remember, and provoke change-making. The time is now, to make together and spark hope.

© Sarah Acton Photograph by Robin Mills

At this time of year I tend to look to our gardening correspondents to remind me that Spring should be just around the corner. But this year the first two weeks of February were perfect weather—ideal for me to learn to walk again after a long awaited hip replacement. So I won’t complain if that weather stays for a while. Seeing the appearance of snowdrops and crocuses with every short walk is one of the joys of this time of year, and as the natural world unfolds to greet a little sunshine and warmth it feels as though there is much to look forward to. Having said that, Russell Jordan does warn us that despite the calendar suggesting Winter should be over, ‘extreme cold, with overnight frosts, is a constant threat to burgeoning new growth.’ So gardeners will still need to be vigilant. Ashley Wheeler reports that amongst his polytunnel plantings, peas and spring onions are getting going—but he also warns that weeds are waking up too. It’s inevitable that with every new growth something less attractive appears, and that seems to be the case well beyond the garden. Michael McCarthy highlights the joys of chalk streams and their pure water. He writes about the streams and rivers that all but dry up completely in summer only to flow again in winter. However, he also asks a question about a proposed new housing development in the north of Dorchester that has raised concerns about the town’s water supply. Although agreeing that everyone needs somewhere to live he asks: is it in the right place? And in our arts section Kit Glaisyer puts a call out to the local community to help develop a new team to run the ever popular Bridport Open Studios. Having been involved in supporting this event for many years I know first-hand what a popular and beneficial event it is—both for the town and surrounding area and the artists that participate. On page 40 we publish a short obituary of one of our contributors, the late Nick Fisher. A well-liked and admired figure throughout the local community and beyond, Nick will be missed by many people. A couple of weeks before his death he and I discussed articles that we planned to publish in the coming year. I hope that in the future we can bring at least some of his spirit back to the pages of this magazine.

Fergus Byrne

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Fergus Byrne

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Design People Magazines Ltd

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Contributors

Helen Fisher

Mark Hix

Nic Jeune

Russell Jordan

Michael McCarthy

Nicky Mathewson

Robin Mills

Gay Pirrie Weir

Ashley Wheeler

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EVENTS AND COURSES March

25 February

Martin Carthy 7:30pm. Bridport Arts Centre, South Street, Bridport, DT6 3NR. 01308 424901. www.bridport-arts.com/whatson.

What’s Love Got To Do With It (12A) 7.30pm The Beehive Honiton www.beehivehoniton.co.uk 01404 384050.

Wootton Fitzpaine social club Quiz Night 8.00pm, Max 6 player in a team, £1.00 per player. All Welcome Membership now due £10.00, Opening times wed, frid, sat from 7.30pm. Snooker table, pool table, football games, skittle alley and well stocked bar. Events to look out for Easter Bingo & Bumper Easter Draw Night.

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

‘The Darkside of Pink Floyd’ gig – Live Music, doors 7.30pm, music 8pm, tickets £20, £22.50 on the door. Tickets from 01297 625699, www.thegatewayseaton.co.uk or in person Tue - Thur 10am - 1pm.

26 February

East Devon Ramblers 10.00am. 10.5 mile moderate walk. ‘The Exe Valley and it’s rolling hills’. Bickleigh Mill. Tel 01395-516897. Divine Union Soundbath Oborne Village Hall, Oborne, nr. Sherborne, Dorset DT9 4LA 2pm-4pm £15Please book in advance via 01935 389655 or email ahiahel@live.com Last minute booking queries or cancellations 07798530515.

Axe Vale Orchestra invites you to “An Afternoon at the Theatre” at 3.00pm, The Town Hall, Colyton. Tickets, £12, students free, from www.axevaleorchestra.co.uk, via TicketSource, or from The Little Shop, Colyton. Cimarosa: Overture Il Matrimonio Segreto, Faure: Masques et Bergamasques, Bizet: Carmen Suite, Respighi: La Boutique Fantasque.

27 February

Scottish Dancing in Chardstock Evening of Scottish Dancing in Chardstock Village Hall 7.30 - 10.00 p.m. Tea and coffee provided but please bring your own mug. No partner required. Cost £2.00 Contact David on 01460 65981 www.chardscottishdancingclub.org.

Bridport Folk Dance Club dance sessions in the W.I.Hall on Monday evenings from 7.15-9.30pm. All Welcome, especially beginners. Occasional live music and always a caller. Musicians welcome. Tel 863552 or 459001 for more information.

Amanda Hampson will give a talk entitled “The Jurassic Coast: A Poet’s journey.” National Trust Golden Cap Association. United Church Hall, East Street, Bridport. 2.30 pm entry £2.00 for members and £5.00 for visitors. Information from Mike Nicks 01308 459855.

Scottish Dancing at All Saints An evening of Scottish Dancing at All Saints Village Hall. 7.30-10.00 pm Tea and coffee provided but please bring your own mug. No partner required. Cost £2.00. Contact David 01460 65981 www.chardscottishdancingclub.org

28 February

Scottish Country Dancing at Ashill Village Hall Nr Ilminster TA19 9LX every Tuesday evening 7.30 to 9.30 pm with break for drink and biscuits. Please wear soft , flat comfy shoes if possible. £ 3.00 per evening. All abilities welcome including beginners so why not come

along and join us ?. Further information contact Anita on 01460 929383 or email anitaandjim22@gmail.com.

Bridport & District u3a Monthly Meetings & Talks ‘Wild Gardening’ by Mitch Perkins of Dorset Wildlife Trust. Mitch works at Dorset Wildlife Trust in the Wider Communities Team. The talk begins at 2pm in the Bridport United Church Hall in East Street. The talk will last for about an hour and there will be an opportunity to ask questions. Refreshments will follow. The talk is free to members and there is a £2 charge for non-members. Please see the Bridport & District u3a website for further information about this and future talks and if you are interested in becoming a member: bridportu3a.org.uk.

The Lyme Regis Society present A Talk Lyme Regis Hospitals by Rachel Pope. To be held at 2pm Woodmead Halls, Hill Road, Lyme Regis. DT7 3PG. All Welcome. Members Free. Visitors £3.00. Refreshments Included. Check website for further information: https://www.lymeregissociety.org.uk.

Simon Nicholls, Home Safety Advisor for Devon Fire Service, will talk to Seaton u3a at their monthly meeting. The talk will start at 2pm at The Gateway, Seaton and is free for members; £2 for nonmembers who are welcome to join us for the talk and refreshments afterwards. More information about Seaton u3a can be found at https://u3asites.org.uk/seaton/home.

1 March

Scottish Country Dancing at 7.30 at Church House, South Street, Bridport, DT6 3NN. All welcome, no partner required but please wear soft shoes. First evening free, thereafter £2.00 which includes tea, coffee, squash and cake. Contact: Malcolm on 07790 323343. Check out bridportscottishdancers for more information.

East Devon Ramblers 10.00am. 10 miles moderate walk. ‘Otter Valley Classic’. Phone 07791-416052.

West Dorset Ramblers, Winterborne Strickland, Time 10:00, 10 miles, Contact, Chris S, 01308 281110.

1 - 7 March

Crocus Week Celebrating a week of acres of naturalised crocuses and wildflowers in the gardens. Usual entry fee applies. Please check the website for more information. Forde Abbey and Gardens Chard TA20 4LU - www.fordeabbey.co.uk – 01460 221290

2 March

Dance Connection restorative movement £12, 7:15pm, Bridport St Mary’s CHH DT6 3NN, 07787752201, danceconnectionwessex@ gmail.com.

Whist Drive every Thursday 2.10pm The Railway Kitchen Train & Bus Station Axminster. For information telephone 07889 019587 or 01297 270025.

Lyme Regis Museum Friends illustrated talk in the Woodmead Hall, Hill Road, Lyme Regis, DT7 3PG at 2.30 pm. ‘A Picture of Health: Exeter’s Medical History’ by Holly Carter-Chappell. Members £2; Visitors £4. All welcome. Enquiries to David Cox, 01297 443156

West Dorset Ramblers Powerstock and Eggardon Hill, Time 10:00, 7 miles, Contact Bridget 1308 459875

3 March

Ventris & Uttley Rosalind Ventris and Richard Uttley on viola and

EVENTS AND COURSES

piano. Promoted by Concerts in the West. Ilminster Arts Centre, TA19 0AN. Concert starts 19:30, bar available. Tickets: £18 (free to under 12s. Students £5). To book: 01460 54973. https://www. ilminsterartscentre.com/music.

Voices of Hope Borough Gardens Bridport near Buckydoo Square (benches in gardens for those who need to sit or rest)

If it is very wet we sing in The Unitarian Chapel in the Garden on East Street Bridport. 11am to 12am Jane Silver Corren 07887675161 janesilvercorren@gmail.com.

A Man Called Otto (15) 7.30pm The story of Otto Anderson (Tom Hanks), a grumpy widower who is very set in his ways. A funny, heartwarming story. The Beehive Honiton www.beehivehoniton. co.uk 01404 384050.

Exploring Inks Workshop at Ilminster Arts Centre, TA19 0AN. Explore and experiment with the wonderful medium of ink. Using a variety of methods to make the most of the wide range of inks available. Working mainly on landscapes and seascapes, discover ways to enliven your painting skills through its application to wet and dry paper. 10:00-13:00. Cost: £30. To book: 01460 54973. https://www. ilminsterartscentre.com/workshops.

East Devon Ramblers 10.00am. 5 mile moderate walk.

Hawkchurch. ‘Short walk to pub lunch’. Phone 07748-618089

4 March

Turn Lyme Green Seed Swap 11.30am to 1.00pm, Lyme Regis. The Driftwood Café at The Baptist Church, at the top of Broad Street. Bring your surplus seed to swap, or simply take those seeds you’d like. The swap is free and donations are accepted.

Dean Carter live launch gig for the CD version of the critically acclaimed album Songs Without Words/Towards Tomorrow 2PM

The Beat & Track Record Store, 4 The Old Shambles, South St, Sherborne DT9 3LN Free 07730 356719 www.thebeatandtrack.co.uk.

Peter Knight’s Gigspanner Big Band 7.30pm The Beehive Honiton www.beehivehoniton.co.uk 01404 384050.

Bridport & West Dorset Rambling Club 6 mile walk from Drimpton. For further information please ring 01308 898484 or 01308 863340.

Learn To Draw From Nature 10am until 12 cost £16. Learn about shape and form and try different materials. Learn about light and shade by studying leaves, flowers, seeds etc. All materials supplied. In the Bradshaw Room At Axminster Heritage Centre, Silver St, Axminster , Devon EX13 5 AH Contact: gina.youens@btinternet. com to book a place or for more information.

Table Top Sale Musbury Village Hall. 10 - 12.30. Anything goes; old and new items, crafts, gifts and bric a brac, also including home made cake stall. Refreshments including bacon buttys. Profits to St Michaels Church Musbury. Table enquiries 01297 552440/552711

5 March

Bridport Chamber Orchestra Spring Concert and teas, 3 pm. Including the Concertino for Clarinet by Tartini, soloist Guillermo Ramasasa, and pieces by Hubert Parry, Samuel Barber, Hugo Wolf and local composers Gordon Langford and Paul Coles. St Swithun’s Church, Bridport, tickets £12 available on the door. 01935 824786 for further information.

Dance Connection Dance Day Workshop, 11am-4pm, Bridport St Mary’s CHH DT6 3NN, 07787752201, danceconnectionwessex@ gmail.com

East Devon Ramblers 10.30. 8.5 mile moderate walk. Harpford woods. ‘Woods, river and commons. Phone 07706-078143

6 March

Bridport Folk Dance Club If you like exercise, socialising and maybe learning something new, then come along to our dance sessions in the W.I. Hall on Monday evenings from 7.15pm-9.30pm. All welcome, especially beginners. Occasional live music, and always a caller. Musicians welcome.Tel: 863552 or 459001 for more information.

Scottish Dancing in Chardstock Evening of Scottish Dancing in Chardstock Village Hall 7.30-10.00 p.,m. Tea and coffee provided but please bring your own mug. No partner required. Cost £2.00 Contact David on 01460 65981 www.chardscottishdancingclub.org.

7 March

Scottish Country Dancing at Ashill Village Hall Nr Ilminster TA19 9LX every Tuesday evening 7.30 to 9.30 pm with break for drinks and biscuits. Please wear soft, flat comfy shoes if possible. £3.00 per evening. All abilities welcome including beginners, so why not come along and join us? For further information contact Anita on 01460 929383 or email anitaandjim22@gmail.com

8 March

Scottish Country Dancing at 7.30 at Church House, South Street, Bridport, DT6 3NN. All welcome, no partner required but please wear soft shoes. First evening free, thereafter £2.00, which includes soft drinks, tea, coffee and biscuits. Contact: Malcolm on 07790 323343. Check out bridportscottishdancers for more information. Loders Local History Group Talk by Elizabeth Gale – 4th generation member of Bridport Swimming Club, founded 1898. West Bay was her second home where her grandmother had a ‘day bungalow’. 7.30pm Entrance £3 Loders Village Hall. contact bogle.2@outlook.com <mailto:bogle.2@outlook.com>

Colyford & District Photographic Club Come along to our Club nights 7.15 to 9.45 pm, every 2nd and 4th Wednesday, Colyford Memorial Hall, Swan Hill Road, Colyford EX24 6QJ. Meet our friendly members, enjoy practical sessions and day trips out with your camera. We encourage and teach the art of photography. Learn more about your camera and improve your photographic skills, including Photoshop, Lightroom and Affinity applications. For more information please telephone 07753911751 or check out our website www.colyford-photographic-club.co.uk. Also 22 March. Dance Connection Taster restorative movement £12, 2:30pm, Dorchester Corn Exchange, DT1 1HF, 07787752201, danceconnectionwessex@gmail.com

EVENTS AND COURSES

East Devon Ramblers 10.00am. 8 mile moderate walk. Donkey sanctuary. ‘Over and around the hills’. Phone 01395-488959. West Dorset Ramblers Hawkchurch/Holditch, Time 10:15, 8.5 miles, Contact Philip& Michelle 01460 62060

8 - 9 March

Mrs Harris Goes To Paris (PG), Kilmington Community Cinema will be screening at the Village Hall (EX13 7RF). “I thought this movie was delightful, charming. The story was so good, I was taken away on a journey with Mrs. Harris. (Rotten Tomatoes audience review abridged). 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. Prebooked seat tickets @ £5 or £5.50 on the door. Tickets can be prebooked by email: wattsjohn307@gmail.com or Tel: 01297 639758 see www.kilmingtonvillage.com/other-organisations.html for more information.

9 March

Chesil Bank Writing Shed Do you write? Would you like to be a writer? Whatever you want to write 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. West Dorset Ramblers Pub Walk from The Wiseman, West Stafford, Time 10:00, 5.5 miles, Contact Cynthia 01300 320346 Chard History Group The Paintings of William Hogarth 7.30 pm. Upstairs at The Phoenix Chard. Contact Chris 0791407967. Chesil Bank Writing Shed Do you write? Would you like to be a writer? Whatever you want to write 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. Andrew Goldberg and Ricky Romain present compositions from their latest album Variations for piano and sitar, plus some new Variations. An alchemical pairing of Western Classical Music and Indian Classical Music. Clocktower Records, St. Michaels Trading estate, Bridport. Doors at 7pm, concert at 7.30pm. Tickets on sale through Bridport Tourist Information Centre Dance Connection restorative movement £12, 7:15pm, Bridport St Mary’s CHH DT6 3NN, 07787752201, danceconnectionwessex@ gmail.com.

Folk dancing at Combe St Nicholas village hall (TA20 3LT) at 1930 hrs. Caller Jane Thomas along with Mitchell and Vincent will be providing the moves and music. 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.

The Shanty Sessions at The Marine Theatre, Lyme Regis. 7.30pm. Come along and join local shanty group, The Chantry Buoys, singing some old favourite shanties, and some other well known songs of the sea. Entry is free, so come on in and join the Buoys in a fun evening, you’ll be very welcome. The bar will be open for alcoholic and soft drinks, and all proceeds go to well deserved local causes. Doors open at 7pm, The Buoys start at 7.30pm.

10 March

East Devon Branch, Devonshire Association Exmouth, Devon’s first seaside resort - and what happened next ! ; Mike Tracey will

talk about the growth of seaside resorts in the UK and explain how and why Exmouth became the first one in Devon. He will describe the facilities and entertainment provided for the early visitors and assess the various external factors which promoted its development alongside the general growth of other resorts in Devon and elsewhere; 2.30pm, Manor Pavilion Theatre Sidmouth EX10 8RP; contact Brian Ludford 01395 513232 or edevon.sec@devonassoc. org.uk.

Plane (15) 7.30pm Action thriller starring Gerard Butler in which a pilot must protect his crew and passengers when his plane is forced to crash land in hostile territory. The Beehive Honiton www. beehivehoniton.co.uk 01404 384050.

Ile Valley Flower Club present a Demonstration from Tracey Johnson from Torquay Starting at 2 pm doors open 1.pm New members and visitors welcome. Visitor’s first time free £6 for every entrance afterwards.

Cinechard at Chard Guildhall doors open at 7pm for a 7.30pm start. This month’s film is Mrs Harris Goes to Paris (12) starring Lesley Manville as the woman who falls in love with a Dior dress. Tickets from Eleos, the PO and Barron’s in advance for £5 and £2.50 or on the door for £6 and £3 or at ticketsource/ cinechard for a small booking fee.

Etheridge & Garrick The combination of John Etheridge, one of the UK’s most celebrated and eclectic guitarists and the stellar talent of Chris Garrick, who is now undoubtedly one of the world’s top violinist’s in practically every genre, is always a very special brew. Concert starts 19:30, bar available. Ilminster Arts Centre, TA19 0AN. Tickets: £18. To book: 01460 54973. https://www. ilminsterartscentre.com/music.

Voices of Hope Beautiful songs from around the world taught in harmony. Group is accessible to all ages and abilities. £5 suggested donation per session. Very relaxed atmosphere, uplifting and fun. No singing experience necessary. Drop in 11am to 12am Borough Gardens Bridport near Buckydoo Square (benches in gardens for those who need to sit or rest) If it is very wet we sing in The Unitarian Chapel in the Garden on East Street Bridport Jane Silver Corren 07887675161 janesilvercorren@gmail.com

‘The Whale’(15) Picnic Night Screening, doors 6.30pm, screening 7.30pm, tickets: Adults £7.50, Under 16s £6.50. From Darren Aronofsky comes ‘The Whale’, the story of a reclusive English teacher who attempts to reconnect with his estranged teenage daughter. Starring Brendan Fraser and based on the acclaimed play by Samuel D Hunter. Tickets from 01297 625699, www. thegatewayseaton.co.uk or in person Tue - Thur 10am - 1pm. 10

- 11 March

Bridport Youth Dance and the BYD street dance crew present “Ricochet”, Friday 10th March 7.30pm and Saturday 11th March at 2.30pm and 7.30pm An evening of live dance by students from Bridport Youth Dance and the BYD street dance crew together with The Dance Weavers films “From the Boards to the Earth” and “Choreography Geography”. Tickets available from Bridport TIC 01308 424901 and from Bridport Electric Palace electricpalace.org. uk/theatre Celebrating 21 years of BYD Tickets: £10.50 adult * plus booking fee £7.50 Students and children * plus booking fee * £1 booking fee www.bridportyouthdance.org.uk

FiFi La Mer - A Journey into French Music 7:30pm. Powerstock Hut 01308 485730. £10, £5 u18s, £25 family.

Empire of Light (15) 7.30pm Set in a seaside town in the 1980s, this is a powerful and poignant story about human connection and the magic of cinema, from director Sam Mendes. The Beehive Honiton www.beehivehoniton.co.uk 01404 384050.

Beaminster Museum annual book sale 10.00am – 1.00pm. Book donations can either be brought to the museum on a Friday morning between 10.00am and 12.00 noon, or phone 01308 863912 to discuss arranging collection from your home.

Sidmouth Daffodil Day 10am - 3pm, at Kennaway House, Sidmouth, Devon EX10 8NG. There will be a Plant Fair including Chelsea Flower Show Gold Medal Winners, Vintage Toast Rack Trips around the town, Daffodil Art Exhibition, Speciality Daffodils, House Plants, Cakes, Preserves, Gardener’s Tombola & refreshments. This event is to celebrate the million Daffodils planted in Sidmouth and to raise funds to plant more Daffodils in the Sid Valley.

Axminster Repair Cafe 10am to 1pm in Axminster Guildhall. We offer free repairs on broken household items as well as teas, coffees, bacon rolls & cakes. We can be contacted on this address: axerepaircafe@gmail.com or more info at: facebook.com/ axminsterrepair.

Bridport & West Dorset Rambling Club 8 mile walk from Poundbury. For further information please ring 01308 898484 or 01308 863340.

12 March

East Devon Ramblers 10.30am. 8.5 mile moderate walk. Killerton Estate. Phone 07594-622813.

Divine Union Soundbath 2PM The Scout Hall, Redcotts Lane, Wimborne Minster, Dorset BA21 1JX. Lie down, relax, and allow the Pure Sounds of a crystal and Tibetan bowl soundbath plus

sacred vocal overtoning take you into the deeper brainwave states of ‘the relaxation response’, while charging and balancing the aura and chakras of the subtle body, and detoxing the physical body. £15 01935 389655 ahiahel@live.com Last minute booking queries or cancellations 07798530515.

13 March

Hawkchurch History Society is hosting a talk .... “Charmouth Heritage Coast Centre” given by the Centre Manager, Alison Ferris. Hawkchurch Village Hall. 6.30pm for 7pm talk. Refreshments available. All Welcome. Members free entry, visitors £4.

West Dorset Flower Club are having a demonstration by Denise Jones entitled “Spring has Sprung”. 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.

Hilary Green Retired Vet, Dorchester Townswomen’s Guild 2 p.m. Talk ‘One Man and his Dog. Dorchester Community Church, Liscombe Street, Poundbury, DT1 3DF. Visitors welcome £2.50 Enquiries 01305 832857.

Scottish Dancing in Chardstock Evening of Scottish Dancing in Chardstock Village Hall 7.30- 10.00 p.m. Tea and coffee provided but please bring your own mug. No partner required Cost £2.00 Contact David on 01460 65981 www.chardscottishdancingclub.org

Bridport Folk Dance Club If you like exercise, socialising and maybe learning something new, then come along to our dance sessions in the W.I. Hall on Monday evenings from 7.15pm-9.30pm. All welcome, especially beginners. With Angela and Tim Laycock. Tel: 863552 or 459001 for more information.

14 March

Scottish Country Dancing at Ashill Village Hall Nr Ilminster TA19 9LX every Tuesday evening 7.30 to 9.30 pm with break for drinks and biscuits. Please wear soft, flat comfy shoes if possible. £3.00 per evening. All abilities welcome including beginners, so why

EVENTS AND COURSES

not come along and join us ? For further information contact Anita on 01460 929383 or email anitaandjim22@gmail.com.

‘Cruising Captain’ with Capt. Simon Love, Life on the high seas: behind the scenes on a cruise ship. Loders Village Hall, 7.30pm -9pm, Tea and coffee and biscuits served. . Non-members welcome £5

15 March

“Creating Gardens with a Sense of Place” by Hugo Bugg Chardstock Gardening Club have the privilege to host RHS multiple Gold Medal winner Hugo Bugg to give a talk about how Harris Bugg Studio goes about designing their projects. Time: 7.15pm. Chardstock Community Hall. Tickets £5 pennyarasch@hotmail.com. Coffee Morning including cakes, scones & pastries, and bacon/ egg rolls (made to order), 10.30am – noon; all welcome. Clapton & Wayford Village Hall. More details from Julia (01460 72769) Emerging into Spring a Mindfulness & Creativity day at the Othona Community’s 4-Seasons Studio, 10am to 4 pm (£60) Contact bookings@othona-bb.org.uk Tel 01308 897130.

East Devon Ramblers 10.00am. 10 mile moderate walk. Newton Poppleford. ‘Spring is nearly here’. Phone 07870-804711.

Colyton & District Garden Society AGM and Bulb Show. 7.30pm Colyford Memorial Hall. Members free, guests £3, new members welcome to join - £10 for the year. Information: Sue Price 01297 552362.

The Beehive Folk Café 7.30pm Perform or listen in the Beehive bar. Free entry. The Beehive Honiton www.beehivehoniton.co.uk 01404 384050.

Scottish Country Dancing at Church House, South Street, Bridport, DT6 3NN. All welcome, no partner required but please wear soft shoes. First evening free, thereafter £2.00, which includes soft drinks, tea, coffee and biscuits. Contact: Malcolm on 07790 323343. Check out bridportscottishdancers for more information.

16 March

The Arts Society “The Artist as a Gardener.” Speaker: Steven Desmond Exploring the works of: Jekyll, Chevreul and Monet and many others. Visitors Welcome £7.50. 2.00pm for 2.30pm. Bridport Town Hall. www.taswestdorset.org.uk.

Dance Connection restorative movement £12, 7:15pm, Bridport St Mary’s CHH DT6 3NN, 07787752201, danceconnectionwessex@ gmail.com.

Bridport & District Gardening Club Annual General Meeting (AGM) 7:30pm at the WI Hall, North Street, Bridport.

The Club will be thanking their outgoing Chair, Margaret Genender, for her sterling commitment in keeping the Club going; particularly through the difficult COVID years. A new Chair will be welcomed in and Committee members confirmed. This is a members only event and all members are encouraged to attend and offer their support to keep the Club alive and thriving. The Club’s regular monthly speakers talks are held every third Thursday of the month. They are open to non-members for a fee of £2. On April 20th, Dave Usher will be discussing Bedding Plants.

17 March

Mike Denham jazz solo piano Mike Denham “Plays the Johnsons”. Solo piano, inspired by jazz-age pianists who shared the name Johnson. People like Chas L (composer of Dill Pickles

Rag), Jaycee (Empty Bed Blues), James P (The Charleston), and Pete (Death Ray Boogie). Mike’s tales of the eventful lives of these characters will as usual be included, at no extra charge! Tincleton Gallery, The Old School House, Tincleton, nr Dorchester, DT2 8QR. Opening / performance times: doors open 19:30; concert starts 20:00. Admission fee: £15. 01305 848 909. http://www. tincletongallery.com.

The Elton John Show 7.30pm The UK’s newest and most exciting Elton John tribute show to hit the stage celebrating Young Elton’ at his energetic best. The Beehive Honiton www.beehivehoniton.co.uk 01404 384050.

Organ Concert by Jonathan Delbridge at South Petherton Parish Church. 7.30pm. Tickets £8 from Dogals ( N&D news) or at the door.

Voices of Hope Beautiful songs from around the world taught in harmony. Group is accessible to all ages and abilities. £5 suggested donation per session. Very relaxed atmosphere, uplifting and fun. No singing experience necessary. Drop in 11am to 12am Borough Gardens Bridport near Buckydoo Square (benches in gardens for those who need to sit or rest) If it is very wet we sing in The Unitarian Chapel in the Garden on East Street Bridport Jane Silver Corren 07887675161 janesilvercorren@gmail.com

East Devon Ramblers 10.00am. 5.5 mile leisurely walk. ‘Daffodils along the Teign’. Phone 01392-759332.

South Somerset RSPB Local Group The Biking Birder An illustrated talk by Gary Prescott, who for three years cycled around Britain visiting every RSPB & WWT reserve, raising money for charity. Masses of birds, stunning locations – entertaining and inspiring. 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.

Felting Workshop at Ilminster Arts Centre, TA19 0AN. Transform wool into a wearable scarf, or make a 3D model of a bird or animal using special barbed needles and lots of stabbing! Most techniques can be taught in this workshop with experienced tutor Geraldine Field. Suitable for all levels from complete beginners to those returning. 10:00-15:00. Cost: £30. To book: 01460 54973. https:// www.ilminsterartscentre.com/workshops

18 March

Mike Denham (piano) with Trevor Whiting (clarinet, sax) “Clarinet Marmalade” Mike Denham (piano) with Trevor Whiting (clarinet, saxophones). A great partnership. Trevor Whiting is one of the UK’s top jazz performers. He delights in the music of primevintage reed players, from Sidney Bechet to Bennie Goodman, interpreting it in a style honed by playing with many international jazz stars. Tincleton Gallery, The Old School House, Tincleton, nr Dorchester, DT2 8QR. Opening / performance times: doors open 19:30; concert starts 20:00. Admission fee: £15. 01305 848 909. http://www.tincletongallery.com.

Beginners Sewing Workshop 10 until 2 pm cost £18 At Axminster Heritage Centre, Silver St, Axminster EX13 5 AH. Come and learn how to use your sewing machine and make a small project.

Learn a new skill or brush up your skills in a relaxed environment. Contact gina.youens@btinternet.com to book a place or for more information.

The Banshees of Inisherin (15) 7.30pm Brendan Gleeson and Colin Farrell star in this tragicomedy about the heartbreak of a severed friendship. The Beehive Honiton www.beehivehoniton.co.uk 01404 384050.

Dorset Chamber Orchestra Music for Youth Concert

Martin Clunes narrates Saint-Saens’ classic Carnival of the Animals with young soloists from Dorset and London. 4pm-5pm St Mary’s Church, Edward Rd Dorchester DT1 2HL Www.dorsetchamberorchestra.org or 01305 269069

Cantamus presents ‘On the wings of song’, beautiful choral music for spring. The Fleet Air Arm Museum, RNAS Yeovilton, Ilchester

BA22 8HT. Starts 7pm, doors open 6.30pm. Tickets £10 from www. nmrn.org.uk/events/cantamus-chamber-choir-spring-concert Bridport & West Dorset Rambling Club 7 mile walk from Beaminster. For further information please ring 01308 898484 or 01308 863340.

Jumble Sale South Perrott Village Hall (A356) from 2pm. Entrance £1. In aid of St Mary’s Church Roof Fund. Enquiries: 01935 891224.

‘The Fabelman’s’(12A) Picnic Night Screening, doors 6.30, screening 7.30pm, tickets Adults £7.50 Under 16s £6.50. An American coming-of-age drama film directed by Steven Spielberg, who also co-wrote and co-produced the film with Tony Kushner. It is semi-autobiographical story loosely based on Spielberg’s adolescence and first years as a filmmaker. Tickets from 01297 625699, www. thegatewayseaton.co.uk or in person Tue - Thur 10am - 1pm.

The Bridport and District Gardening Club Spring Show will be held at the Bridport United Church. The show is open to members and non-members to enter and there will be opportunities to show flowers, preserves, cakes, art and handicraft as well as a children’s

class. Schedules for the Spring and Harvest Show (9 September) are available now from the Bridport and District Gardening Club website, https://www.bridportgardeningclub.co.uk or from Monique Pasche (01308 301272). At both shows there will be refreshments and a raffle. Proceeds from the plant sale will go to a local charity. At the Spring Show, a free small fuchsia plug can be collected to be grown at home and be shown at the Harvest Show. First come, first served!

18 - 19 March

Pick Your Own Flowers This Mothers Day come and PYO bunch of flowers in the beautiful abbey ruins in Abbotsbury. Free to visit, pay to pick. Family & dog-friendly, toilets and cafe on site. Abbey Farm Flowers, parking on Rodden Row B3157. www. abbeyfarmflowers.co.uk

19 March

‘Anything Goes: The Musical (PG) Screening, doors 2.30pm, screening 3pm, tickets Adults £14.50, under 16s £7.50. Filmed live during its sold out 2021 run at The Barbican in London, this major 5-star production of the classic musical comedy features an all-star cast led by renowned Broadway royalty Sutton Foster as Reno Sweeney, alongside Robert Lindsay (My Family), Felicity Kendal (The Good Life) and Gary Wilmot (Chicago). A heartwarming romance with spectacular dance routines and some of theatre’s most memorable songs. Tickets from 01297 625699, www. thegatewayseaton.co.uk or in person Tue - Thur 10am - 1pm. Yeovil Railway Centre Yeovil Junction, Stowford BA22 9UU. First Steam Train Day of the season. 01935 410420 for recorded information, or visit website www.yeovilrailway.freeservers.com. Also on Facebook.

Divine Union Soundbath

2PMThe David Hall, Roundwell St, South Petherton Somerset TA13 5AA £15 Lie down, relax, and allow the Pure Sounds of a crystal and Tibetan bowl soundbath plus

EVENTS AND COURSES

sacred vocal overtoning take you into the deeper brainwave states of ‘the relaxation response’, while charging and balancing the aura and chakras of the subtle body, and detoxing the physical body. Please book in advance 01935 389655 ahiahel@live.com Last minute booking queries or cancellations 07798530515.

East Devon Ramblers 10.00am. 13 mile strenuous walk. Sidmouth. ‘To the Peak and back’. Phone 07595-457895.

Dalwood Jazz Club Annika Skoogh with The Craig Milverton Trio. Tribute to Anita O’Day and other great “Ladies of Jazz” Dalwood Village Hall EX13 7EG (near Axminster). 3pm Bar for beer/wine/soft drinks and teas/coffees etc. Parking at the Village Hall. Ticket £12.50p Please pay at the door. info: t.mackenney111@btinternet.com 07999 553477

20 March

Bridport Folk Dance Club If you like exercise, socialising and maybe learning something new, then come along to our dance sessions in the W.I. Hall on Monday evenings from 7.15pm-9.30pm. All welcome, especially beginners. Occasional live music, and always a caller. Musicians welcome. Tel: 863552 or 459001 for more information.

Hawkchurch Film Nights in association with Devon Moviola, proudly presents ‘See How They Run’ (94 mins, Cert. 12 - moderate violence, threat, bloody images). Sam Rockwell and Saoirse Ronan lead an all-star cast in this sparkling murder mystery in which a seasoned police inspector and an inexperienced constable investigate foul play at a West End theatre. 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.

Scottish Dancing in Chardstock Evening of Scottish Dancing in Chardstock Village Hall 7.30 - 10.00 p.m. Tea and coffee provided but please bring your own mug. No partner required. Cost £2.00 Contact David on 01460 65981 www.chardscottishdancingclub.org.

21 March

Scottish Country Dancing at Ashill Village Hall Nr Ilminster TA19 9LX every Tuesday evening 7.30 to 9.30 pm with break for drinks and biscuits. Please wear soft, flat comfy shoes if possible. £3.00 per evening. All abilities welcome including beginners, so why not come along and join us? For further information contact Anita on 01460 929383 or email anitaandjim22@gmail.com.

Barrington & District Gardening Society AGM & Spring Show – 7.30pm Barrington Village Hall Opportunity to exchange ideas etc. by members. Members can enter their narcissus bulbs in the Spring show that were distributed last Autumn Tea, coffee & biscuits. Members free, guests £2.

22 March

‘Trains & Trams of Colyton Through the Ages’ presented by local tram driver Brian Lowing. Colyton Town Hall, 7.30pm. £4 nonmembers, £2 members includes refreshments. For more info email:

secretary@colytonhistory.org.

Learn To Draw From Nature 10am until 12 cost £16 Learn about shape and form and try different materials .Learn about light and shade by studying leaves, flowers, seeds etc. All materials supplied. In the Bradshaw Room At Axminster Heritage Centre, Silver St, Axminster, Devon EX13 5 AH. Contact: gina.youens@btinternet. com to book a place or for more information.

Seining Along Chesil author Sarah Acton in conversation. West Bay Discovery Centre is holding another winter talk at The Salt House at 2:00pm with oral history writer and poet Sarah Acton talking about the traditions of seine fishing along the Chesil Beach with stories and contributors from West Bay & Burton Bradstock. Tickets £2 Booking in advance essential from Bridport Tourist Information Centre 01308 424901 Further details http://www. westbaydiscoverycentre.org.uk/

Uplyme and Lyme Regis Horticultural Society demonstration on how to plant a hanging ball for spring by Mark Bugler. Uplyme Village Hall 7.30pm. Refreshments from 7pm. Members free, nonmembers £3. More information www.ulrhs.wordpress.com

East Devon Ramblers 10.00am. 10 mile moderate walk. ‘Around Lustleigh Cleave’. Phone 07851-743913.

Dance Connection Taster restorative movement £12, 2:30pm, Dorchester Corn Exchange, DT1 1HF, 07787752201, danceconnectionwessex@gmail.com

Scottish Country Dancing at 7.30 at Church House, South Street, Bridport, DT6 3NN. All welcome, no partner required but please wear soft shoes. First evening free, thereafter £2.00, which includes soft drinks, tea, coffee and biscuits. Contact: Malcolm on 07790 323343. Check out bridportscottishdancers for more information.

23 March

Dance Connection restorative movement £12, 7:15pm, Bridport St Mary’s CHH DT6 3NN, 07787752201, danceconnectionwessex@ gmail.com.

Royal Opera Cinema: Turandot (12A) 7.15pm Puccini’s final opera is a glorious pageant of rich colour, dance and drama in Andrei Serban’s classic staging. The Beehive Honiton www.beehivehoniton. co.uk 01404 384050.

24 March

Puss in Boots:The Last Wish (U) Family Picnic Night Screening, doors 6pm, screening 7pm, tickets Adults £7.50, under 16s £6.50. DreamWorks Animation presents a new adventure in the Shrek universe as daring outlaw Puss in Boots discovers that his passion for peril and disregard for safety have taken their toll. Puss has burned through eight of his nine lives, though he lost count along the way. Getting those lives back will send Puss in Boots on his grandest quest yet. Tickets from 01297 625699, www.thegatewayseaton.co.uk or in person Tue - Thur 10am - 1pm.

Mrs Harris Goes to Paris 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.

See How They Run (12A) A British comedy/ murder mystery, set in a 1950`s West End theatre, will be shown by T & F Movies in Tatwiorth Memorial Hall at 7.30pm. The doors open at 7.00pm, the entry charge is £5 and there will be the usual bar..

Xhosa Cole the award-winning sax player everyone’s talking about pays homage to jazz legend Theolonious Monk. 8.00pm, Marine Theatre, Church Street, Lyme Regis DT7 3QB. More: www.jazzjurassica.co.uk.

Voices of Hope Beautiful songs from around the world taught in harmony. Group is accessible to all ages and abilities. £5 suggested donation per session. Very relaxed atmosphere, uplifting and fun. No singing experience necessary. Drop in 11am to 12am Borough Gardens Bridport near Buckydoo Square (benches in gardens for those who need to sit or rest) If it is very wet we sing in The Unitarian Chapel in the Garden on East Street Bridport Jane Silver Corren 07887675161 janesilvercorren@gmail.com

Macramé Easter Nests Workshop at Ilminster Arts Centre, TA19 0AN. Forget needles and hooks – you’ll just need to master a few key knots to start creating stunning macramé pieces. Once you’ve made your nest, you can pop in a chocolate egg, fluffy chick or toy. It makes the perfect Easter gift! 10:00-13:00. Cost: £20. To book: 01460 54973. https://www.ilminsterartscentre.com/ workshops.

East Devon Ramblers 10.00am. 5 mile leisurely walk. ‘Woodbury Park Golf Club yet again’. Phone 01392873881.

West Dorset Ramblers Coneys Castle, Time 10:00, 7.5 miles, Contact Heather 07798 732252.

25 March

‘Rule The World – Take That Tribute’ gig Live Music, doors 7.30pm, music 8.30pm, tickets £16.50, £18 on the door. The band believes in being a completely accurate

EVENTS AND COURSES

portrayal and ensure they mimic the sounds, look and feel of the original ‘Take That’. They are not just a cabaret act singing ‘Take That’ songs, they are an impersonation of the band and pay complete tribute to the ‘Take That’ magic. This is a 3 piece Take That tribute to portray the current line- up. As seen on Graham Norton Show. Tickets from 01297 625699, www.thegatewayseaton.co.uk or in person Tue - Thur 10am - 1pm.

Cantamus presents ‘On the wings of song’, beautiful choral music for spring. Starts 7.30pm. St Mary’s Church, Norton-sub-Hamdon, Somerset TA14 6SU. Tickets £10 on the door. Part of the popular Norton Festival.

South Somerset Choral Society The final concert for the South Somerset Choral Society will be Giuseppe Verdi’s remarkable Requiem. This famous and dramatic masterpiece will be held at 7.30 PM in the comparably dramatic surroundings of the Great Tithe Barn, Haselbury Mill, Hazelbury Pluknett, near Crewkerne. We shall be joined by four brilliant young soloists and an enlarged orchestra. Tickets, priced £18.00 are available from tickets@ southsomersetchoralsociety.org.uk. Other outlets are listed on our website.

Till (12A) 7.30pm The soul-stirring true story of Mamie MobleyTill’s fight for justice for her 14 year old son, Emmett Till, after he is lynched by a racist mob in 1955 Mississippi. The Beehive Honiton www.beehivehoniton.co.uk 01404 384050.

Call my Bluff a quiz with a difference, with curios to fire your imagination! Teams of approx 4; £10 per person, including hot supper. Licenced bar; raffle. 7pm; Clapton & Wayford Village Hall. Proceeds shared with Dorset & Somerset Air Ambulance. Please book on 01460 74849 or 01460 74321.

Bridport & West Dorset Rambling Club 6 mile walk from Portesham. For further information please ring 01308 898484 or 01308 863340.

26 March

Annual Concert The Fairey Band St Mary’s Church Beaminster 2.30 pm Tickets £12.50. In Aid of the Alzheimer’s Society and St Mary’s Church. For details Tel 01308 8642493 Email tonyandmarg @ aol.com.

Divine Union Soundbath 2PM Oborne Village Hall Oborne nr. Sherborne DT9 4LA £15 Lie down, relax, and allow the Pure Sounds of a crystal and Tibetan bowl soundbath plus sacred vocal overtoning take you into the deeper brainwave states of ‘the relaxation response’, while charging and balancing the aura and chakras of the subtle body, and detoxing the physical body. Please book in advance via 01935 389655 or email ahiahel@live.com Last minute booking queries or cancellations 07798530515.

Jazz in the Bar Marine Theatre, Lyme Regis 8pm £12 advance £14 on the door. Tickets available at http://www.marinetheatre.com or on 01308 424901

East Devon Ramblers 10.00am. 13 mile strenuous walk. Wiveliscombe Croft. ‘Wivvy way, South section’. Phone 01395567450

27 March

Bridport Folk Dance Club If you like exercise, socialising and maybe learning something new, then come along to our dance

sessions in the W.I.Hall on Monday evenings from 7.15-9.30pm. All Welcome, especially beginners. Occasional live music and always a caller. Musicians welcome. Tel 863552 or 459001 for more information.

Scottish Dancing in Chardstock Evening of Scottish Dancing in Chardstock Village Hall 7.30 - 10.00 p.m. Tea and coffee provided but please bring your own mug. No partner required Cost £2.00 Contact David on 01460 65981 www.chardscottishdancingclub.org

28 March

‘Heathers The Musical’ Screening, doors 6.30pm, screening 7pm, tickets Adults £12, Under 16s £10. Wickedly funny and with dazzling book, music and lyrics by Kevin Murphy and Laurence O’Keefe, Heathers The Musical is based on the 1988 cult hit, that starred Winona Ryder and Christian Slater, and produced by Bill Kenwright and Paul Taylor-Mills. Tickets from 01297 625699, www. thegatewayseaton.co.uk or in person Tue - Thur 10am - 1pm.

Scottish Country Dancing at Ashill Village Hall Nr Ilminster TA19 9LX every Tuesday evening 7.30 to 9.30 pm with break for drinks and biscuits. Please wear soft, flat comfy shoes if possible. £3.00 per evening. All abilities welcome including beginners, so why not come along and join us? For further information contact Anita on 01460 929383 or email anitaandjim22@gmail.com.

Seaton u3a will welcome Paul Fealey, the Horticultural Technical Officer at EDDC, who will be telling us about his work and responsibilities for East Devon’s green spaces. The talk will start at 2pm at The Gateway, Fore Street, Seaton. Non-members are welcome to come along for the talk which will be followed by tea and biscuits for a charge of £2; entry for members is free. There will be plenty of time to find out more about our u3a group and the activities available to members. More information can be found on our website: u3asites.org.uk/seaton/home or you can call our Secretary on 01297 691395.

29 March

Scottish Country Dancing at 7.30 at Church House, South Street, Bridport, DT6 3NN. All welcome, no partner required but please wear soft shoes. First evening free, thereafter £2.00, which includes soft drinks, tea, coffee and biscuits. Contact: Malcolm on 07790 323343. Check out bridportscottishdancers for more information. West Dorset Ramblers Rodwell& Castle Cove Beach, Weymouth, Time 10:00, 7.5 miles, Contact Ian 07826 150114

East Devon Ramblers 2.00pm. 8 mile moderate walk. Colyton. ‘The longer fish and chips walk’. Phone 01404-45944.

East Devon Ramblers 2.00pm. 7.3 mile leisurely walk. Colyton. ‘The slightly shorter fish and chips walk’. Phone 01297-552313

30 March

NTLive – ‘Life of Pi’ (PG) Screening, doors 6.30pm, Screening 7pm, tickets Adults £14.50, Under 16s £7.50. Puppetry, magic and storytelling combine in a unique, Olivier Award-winning stage adaptation of the best-selling novel. Tickets from 01297 625699, www.thegatewayseaton.co.uk or in person Tue - Thur 10am - 1pm. Dance Connection restorative movement £12, 7:15pm, Bridport St Mary’s CHH DT6 3NN, 07787752201, danceconnectionwessex@ gmail.com.

Nostalgic Cinema: Jesus Christ Superstar (PG) 2pm 1973 Film

version of the musical stage play. A dementia-friendly subtitled screening open to all. The Beehive Honiton www.beehivehoniton. co.uk 01404 384050.

National Theatre: Life of Pi (PG) 7pm Puppetry, magic and storytelling combine in a unique, Olivier Award-winning stage adaptation of the best-selling novel. The Beehive Honiton www. beehivehoniton.co.uk 01404 384050.

31 March

Zoe Schwarz: Blue Commotion Expect an exciting evening of refreshed blues with eclectic arrangements, virtuosic playing and vocal prowess. Strong catchy riffs and exciting grooves, Zoe Schwarz mixes old school tradition with contemporary verve and sophistication. Concert starts 19:30, bar available. Ilminster Arts Centre, TA19 0AN. Tickets: £18. To book: 01460 54973. https:// www.ilminsterartscentre.com/music.

Voices of Hope Beautiful songs from around the world taught in harmony. Group is accessible to all ages and abilities. £5 suggested donation per session. Very relaxed atmosphere, uplifting and fun. No singing experience necessary. Drop in 11am to 12am Borough Gardens Bridport near Buckydoo Square (benches in gardens for those who need to sit or rest) If it is very wet we sing in The Unitarian Chapel in the Garden on East Street Bridport Jane Silver Corren 07887675161 janesilvercorren@gmail.com.

Women Talking (15) 7.30pm Sarah Polley’s unflinching drama follows a group of Mennonite women who must protect their colony following a discovery of systemic abuse. The Beehive Honiton www. beehivehoniton.co.uk 01404 384050.

Katherine Crouch winner of BBC Gardener of the year in 1999, BBC Gardener of the Decade in 2008 and a Gold at Chelsea Flower Show in 2013 - will be giving a talk in WInsham village hall entitled New Tricks for Old Gardeners. Starting at 7.30pm tickets will be £3.50 for members and £5 for non members and tea, coffee & cake

will be available. The society is also organising a morning workshop with Charles Dowding (google him he’s a very forward thinking gardener) at his garden in Alhampton on Sunday May 14th. Tickets are £20 and spaces are limited so if you are interested and want to reserve one or need information on either of these events please contact Debbie 01460 432815.

East Devon Ramblers 10.00am. 5 mile leisurely walk. Musbury. ‘Lanes, paths, hills, views’. Phone 07522-417682

Sew Your Own Bunting at Ilminster Arts Centre, TA19 0AN. Create some fun bunting to decorate a special event such as a family get-together at Easter, the Coronation in May, or for a sunny summer party. 10:00-13:00. Cost: £25 + £5 materials. To book: 01460 54973. https://www.ilminsterartscentre.com/workshops.

1 April

Axminster and District Choral Society will be performing the UK premiere of a rediscovered work by CPE Bach. The concert, featuring professional soloists and orchestra, takes place at the Minster Church, Axminster at 7.30pm. Tickets cost £12 and £15 from Archway Books, Trinity Square, Axminster, by phoning 01404 41907, or on-line at www.axminsterchoral.co.uk.

Spring Plant and Gardening Fair 10:30am – 3:00pm. Packed with inspiration and ideas for the Spring garden we will be hosting the Spring Plant Fair with specialist nurseries selling plants and gardening sundries. Special Entry fee of £5 per adult and children under 15 free. Forde Abbey and Gardens Chard TA20 4LU - www. fordeabbey.co.uk – 01460 221290

Wootton Fitzpaine social club Easter Bingo, Wootton fitzpaine village hall, Eyes down 7.30, Info 01297 560913

BROADWINDSOR Pulling pints

It’s been all hands to the pumps for volunteers holding the fort in between managers at Broadwindsor’s community pub, The White Lion. Locals have had their work cut out since mid-January, putting on themed food nights, Sunday roasts with guest chefs, breakfasts and quizzes to keep The White Lion roaring. Broadwindsor Community Pub chairman, Rick Dyke, said: ‘It’s been a busy few weeks and the events have been very much appreciated by customers.’ The pub’s quest continues for a new front of house person and chef to run the Palmers’ inn. The job, in a much loved community hub, comes with a spacious, four-bedroom self-contained flat.

MARSHWOOD VALE

Gold for new enterprise

Coppet Hill Partners, a regenerative farming family business just outside Bridport, West Dorset, has won Gold in the New Tourism Business category of the Dorset Tourism Awards. The award recognises high performing new tourism businesses, demonstrating exceptional understanding of their market, exceeding the expectations of their customers with clear plans for future development. Coppet Hill was founded in 2021 from the dairy and award-winning bacon business, Denhay Farms Ltd. The new partnership has taken a new more environmental approach to managing the land and have opened up the farm to nature friendly camping and secluded glamping.

DORCHESTER Freemason support for hospital

Dorset County Hospital has received further support from local freemasons in Weymouth and Portland. Alan Wise, Worshipful Master of both Portland Mark Lodge 133 and Trinity Lodge 8025 lodges and his wife Lynda visited staff at Dorset County Hospital in December after fundraising for Kingfisher Ward. They safely delivered three iPads, worth around £1,000, for the children of Kingfisher Ward to use while staying in hospital. The money raised to purchase these iPads came from the generous brethren and their wives from the two lodges.

EYPE Application for solar panels

An application to install hundreds of solar panels at a holiday park has been submitted to Dorset Council. The proposals, to power caravans and other facilities is for land at Highlands End park at Eype, near Bridport. Electricity generated will also be used to heat the park’s swimming pool while any surplus is to be exported to the National Grid. Reported by the Bridport News the company said that the panels are part of its aim of achieving net zero carbon status which, in turn, will make the business more financially viable. Previous plans were refused due to the potential impact on an area of outstanding natural beauty.

MARTINSTOWN

Supper group raises over £23K Martinstown Circle Suppers, a communitybased supper group in Martinstown, has raised over £23,000 for local charities since its inception in 2016. The members raise money by taking turns to host and pay for attending meals in each other’s homes, with all of the money raised going to the chosen charity. The first charity supported by the group was Kennedy’s Disease UK, which was cofounded by local resident Kate Hopps to raise awareness and funds for research into the rare progressive neuromuscular disease, Kennedy’s Disease, with which her husband Frank had been diagnosed. Since then, the group has supported five different charities, all of which have a local connection.

Nature Studies

By Michael McCarthy

Being an inveterate river-lover, one of the aspects of the Dorset landscape which most struck me when I first started visiting the county, years ago, was the chalk streams. These are the small rivers found in the chalk downland landscapes of southern England and not many other places (though there are some in Normandy). They have a good claim to be the loveliest rivers in the world, not least because their water, filtered by the underlying chalk through which it rises, is the purest to be found anywhere—so limpid and pristine that it is often described as ‘gin clear’. Furthermore, they are abounding in wildlife, with a profusion of aquatic wild flowers, and copious invertebrate life which allows their trout to grow fat, which is why they are beloved of anglers.

Dorset is rich in chalk streams, its main ones being the Frome and the Piddle (although not the Stour), and since we moved to the county I have been looking at them ever more closely. There are a whole host of smaller chalk watercourses which include the Wraxall, the Sydling, the Cerne, the Devil’s Brook, the Tarrant and the Allen. With some, the name seems to be in doubt—what do we call the river which runs through Milborne St Andrew? It eventually becomes the Bere Stream at Bere Regis, where it is substantial, but higher up its identity seems to be uncertain. And some of the smaller ones seem to have no name at all, such as the stream which flows from Up Cerne to join the Cerne above Cerne Abbas, or the one which runs down from Wynford Eagle to join the River Hooke at Maiden Newton. Nameless Dorset rivers. I am fascinated by them.

In recent months, however, my attention has been most focused on another species of Dorset chalk stream—the winterbournes, a winterbourne being a river which may run dry in summer, only to start flowing again when the winter rains come. In our village there are three tiny unnamed chalk streams which in the severe drought last year dried up completely, though now they are full again. Yet some of the larger rivers named above are also winterbournes, the Tarrant being a spectacular example. In the parching heat of last summer the Tarrant simply died: on September 9 I drove the length of the river from its confluence with the Stour at Tarrant Crawford to where it crosses the A354 at Tarrant Hinton, and it was dry as a

An incomer’s discovery of the natural world in the West Country

bone, unutterably sad; there was grass growing out of its bed. And yet when I went back to Tarrant Hinton on January 16 last, its water was thundering underneath its bridge, and I rejoiced.

The winterbournes each year offer a warning, of just how vulnerable chalk streams can be to the level of the water in the underground reservoir supporting them, the aquifer—something which will be of growing concern with the increasing droughts expected from climate change in the years to come. And it is in this context that I have been thinking about the proposed new settlement of 4,000 houses in the countryside just north of Dorchester, put forward by a private consortium and being considered by Dorset council. There is fierce local opposition to this scheme, much of it on landscape grounds, and I am very sympathetic to that: the lovely, gentle panorama of the Dorchester water meadows, the incomparable setting of the north of the town from Charminster to Stinsford, painted so vividly by Thomas Hardy’s artist friend, Henry Joseph Moule, will be permanently impaired.

But what effect will there also be on the water supply for the Piddle, the Frome, the Cerne and all the rest, if you plonk on top of the aquifer supplying them a completely new settlement of perhaps 10,000 people with all their water demands? If you dig out the response to Dorset council’s proposal from Wessex Water, you will find that on hydrological grounds, the company feels this development is in the wrong place and “strongly objects” to the site being chosen.

Of course people need somewhere to live, and no-one denies that in Britain we need more houses. But the notion of a development being simply in the wrong place is a real one. Consider: to fight climate change, we desperately need more renewable energy, from sources such as wind farms—it is an absolute priority.

But would you sanction the siting of a windfarm next to Stonehenge?

Two chalkstreams for the price of one: the Frome where it is joined by the Cerne. © Photo: Robin Mills

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

Vegetables in March

By Ashley Wheeler

Although the weather is still uncertain during March, we have definitely reached a turning point. The middle of February usually marks the beginning of more growth amongst the polytunnel plantings—salads start regrowing after the winter harvests, and things like peas and spring onions get going, but so do the weeds—so be sure to stay on top of them in any polytunnel or glasshouse.

We have already started seed sowing for some of the polytunnel plantings, and for some of the early outdoor planting such as turnips, red russian kale, mustards, rocket, beetroot, spring onions and the like. However, this can all still be sown through March—we just like to try and get a few extra early plantings in if we can. Sometimes they work and sometimes it’s too wet and cold and they don’t really take off. We make sure that we cover all of the early plantings outside with horticultural fleece, and we keep this on right up until the end of April at least. We just lay the fleece directly over the crops, pulling it tightly over them and then holding it down with sandbags around the edges. Most crops grow well under the fleece through early spring, and don’t mind it laying directly on their leaves as long as it is pulled tight over them and not allowed to flap around in the wind too much which can cause damage to the leaves.

We have a dedicated propagation polytunnel with heat benches to start off our sowings, which allows us to start the sowing a little earlier. These benches have small tunnels built over them to keep the seedlings warm and keep the humidity high to aid germination. We sow most of our vegetables in trays of the same size, which fit perfectly on the benches, so that we can maximise the heated space. Once germinated, the seedlings come off the heat benches and onto cold benches in the tunnel. These are covered with fleece at night to protect them from any frosts.

We mostly multisow each cell and do not thin these out before planting, but instead plant out clumps of plants together. For example with beetroot, chard, onions, salads (except for individual lettuce, chicory and endive), turnips, herbs like coriander, basil, dill, parsley and peas are all sown with a few seeds per cell—somewhere between 2-5 seeds depending on the crop. We even sow spring onions with about 10 seeds per cell, so that they grow in bunches and then we can just pull up the whole bunch in one go. This also allows for easier weeding/hoeing of the crops as we plant them out at standard spacings rather than if they were sown directly in a solid row, so we can hoe not only along the rows, but between the plants in the rows too. This makes a big difference at the beginning of the plants life, so that it can establish without competition from weeds growing around it.

A couple of important things to consider when propagating your own vegetables are light levels and airflow. It is important for seedlings to get maximum light levels reaching them so that they grow strongly, rather than with spindly stems searching for the light. It is also important to have good

airflow around the seedlings to discourage any fungal diseases such as damping off which can become a problem in areas of high humidity and poor airflow. Either open up any propagators that you use or have a fan circulating the air around the propagating space to improve airflow around the seedlings. This also encourages them to grow stronger stems as they acclimatise to the air movement. If all this is too much, don’t worry—you can still buy in plants for your veg plot, just try to find organically grown plants if you can—there are a few places online that you will be able to find these.

WHAT TO SOW THIS MONTH: turnips, chard, spinach, salad leaves - chervil, buckshorn plantain, lettuce, burnet, peashoots, anise hyssop, kales, mustards, agretti, sorrel, summer purslane & goosefoot (end of month). Radish, fennel, courgettes (end of month), spring onions, beetroot, cucumbers, early tenderstem broccoli, dill, coriander, peas and mangetout. We sow all of these into trays in the propagating tunnel to be planted out in April mostly. Also all of the indoor solanaceae such as tomatoes, peppers, chillies and aubergines can be sown now, as well as indoor grown french beans.

WHAT TO PLANT THIS MONTH:

OUTSIDE: salads—mustards, rockets etc., lettuce, peas, broad beans, potatoes, early kale.

INSIDE: If you sowed any early salad crops for a polytunnel or glasshouse they can go in at the beginning of March. Also successions of peas and spring onions will continue to be planted.

OTHER IMPORTANT TASKS THIS MONTH: If the weather dries, continue preparing beds for the spring by mulching with compost. Keep on top of the seed sowing, but dont sow too much of anything—think about sowing successionally rather than doing one big sowing in early Spring. Things that are perfectly suited to successions include all salad leaves, spring onions, peas, beans, beetroot, chard, kale, carrots, fennel, radish and annual herbs.

One of our propogation benches

March in the Garden

By Russell Jordan

Officially spring starts this month which is something worth celebrating. Maybe treat yourself to a trip to the garden centre to invest in some instant horticultural cheer in the form of spring bedding, little bulbs in pots or a heavenly scented flowering shrub— maybe something from the daphne tribe? The weather will play a large part in what you can be doing this month because, despite the calendar suggesting that winter is over, extreme cold, with overnight frosts, is a constant threat to burgeoning new growth.

If it does remain cold, with plants still in winter dormancy, then there is a little time left to plant bare-rooted plants, such as trees or hedging. Leaving it this late means that you will have to keep a better eye on them, as the year progresses, as they won’t have had as much time to establish themselves and are more susceptible to death by drought if they are not kept watered. The same is true of established plants which you may have dug up and moved around the garden, even more so in the case of evergreens.

In February, I mentioned that soon it would be necessary to feed beds and borders, as plants start back into growth, and this month may be the last time that it’s possible to access some beds before herbaceous plants are fully emerged and the soil inaccessible. Forking in a little organic fertiliser and topping off with a mulch of soil conditioner really sets off the emerging new growth.

It’s a slightly contentious point, as they’re not organic, but I still like to use a prophylactic sprinkling of slug pellets, in order to try and reduce the number of plants that are chewed to nothing at the point of emergence. It’s a shame that some very slug prone plants, delphiniums being a prime candidate, are now practically impossible to get established in the garden due to the lack of any effective slug control.

One area of the garden which is not affected by slugs is the lawn. In a mild spring there is a good chance that the grass will need cutting at some point this month. Only mow lawns when they are dry and frost free—not always easy at this time of the year. Your lawnmower should be adjusted to

cut at a higher setting than it was in the summer as the grass will not be growing at full speed this early in the year. After mowing, to remove the long grass that’s accumulated since it was last cut, it may benefit from being ‘scarified’. This is the process, using either a wire rake or a powered scarifying machine, whereby dead grass stems, ‘thatch’, and any build up of moss is mechanically removed from the sward. This allows more air and light to reach the lawn surface which helps to promote healthy new grass growth.

Towards the end of the month, assuming the weather is warming up and growth is more active, it’s a good idea to use a proprietary ‘weed and feed’ preparation on the lawn. If the lawn is compacted, the soil very solid and lacking in aeration, then it may be worth hiring a lawn spiking machine, which removes little plugs of soil, to open up the lawn surface. These little holes will need to have dry, sieved, topsoil brushed into them to get the full benefit out of this mechanical operation. In really poor lawns the added topsoil, ‘top dressing’, could be pre-sown with lawn seed, a general hard wearing mix should suffice, in order to augment the existing grass.

Back in the borders; shrubs grown for their winter stems should be stooled (cut almost to the ground) and given a feed with something like ‘fish, blood and bone’ to encourage strong new growth this summer which will provide the brightest winter colour. Chief amongst these are members of the Cornus genus, the dogwoods, of which varieties such as ‘Midwinter Fire’ and ‘Baton Rouge’ are especially vibrant. The various willows, Salix, which have winter stems in a spectrum of hues, can also be stooled now if they are well established.

Willows have the added benefit that they can be cut down at a height, once they’ve grown a decent trunk, so that they grow a shock of bright new stems maybe six feet off the ground. This ‘pollarding’ is really useful if they are being grown in an area where grazing animals, especially out of control wild deer, would otherwise chew off any new growth within reach (this is not likely to be a problem in a

suburban setting!). I always remember that, years ago, when I gardened at ‘Parnham House’ there were pollarded willows with bright orange stems, probably Salix alba subsp. vitellina ‘Britzensis’, along the riverbank towards the old ice house. It may be a little too soon to direct sow outdoors, unless you can provide a degree of frost protection, but sowing halfhardy annuals indoors, into plug trays or small pots, will give them a head start when it comes to flowering outside in early summer. Having a few pots of annuals to plant out into any gaps in the border, as the season gets going, is always a good idea. I rely on the taller growing genera, Cosmos and Cleome in particular, to add height without mass in mixed planting schemes. Shorter genera, nasturtiums and marigolds spring to mind, are invaluable to cover up areas where spring bulbs may be dying down and leaving a gap to be filled; ‘nature abhors a vacuum’.

Scattering hardy annual seed in a fairly random manner can add an informal, cottage garden-like, twist to an established garden; poppies, nigella (‘Love-in-a-Mist’) and Limnanthes douglasii (‘Poached Egg Plant’) are amongst the easiest to establish. Their seed is cheap and you get lots in a packet, a function of just how generous they are to set seed in the first place, so broadcasting them into border edges, broken paving or loose gravel should reward you with summer colour with very little effort. Once established they should set seed each year, if left alone, and produce a self-sustaining population for future years. You’ll need to be prepared to weed them out if, they self-sow into areas where they are unwelcome, but that’s a small price to pay for the easy joy they bring.

Homes for not very March!

By Helen Fisher

BRIDPORT £248,000

Converted from the Foundry owner’s house many years ago, a ground floor 2 bedroom double-glazed flat with a single storey extension. Dual aspect living room with feature fireplace & picture rails. Beautifully landscaped rear walled garden with flowering shrubs, fruit trees, summerhouse and greenhouse.

Kennedys Tel: 01308 427329

CHARMOUTH £290,000

A tasteful mid-terraced Victorian cottage with 2 double bedrooms and many original features. Open fireplace, flagstone flooring & beamed chimney, plus built in storage spaces. Private courtyard garden with side access. Unrestricted street parking and within walking distance to beach.

Goadsby Tel: 01308 420000

SEATON £195,000

A very well presented, corner terraced house built in the 1980’s. Formerly with 2 bedrooms but now adapted to make a more generous double bedroom with a dressing room/cot room adjoining. Plus contemporary bathroom and wooden double glazed windows. Well planted, large enclosed garden with storage shed. Allocated parking.

Gordon & Rumsby Tel: 01297 553768

TOLLER PORCORUM £294,000

A charming and improved end-of-terrace double fronted period cottage with side access and 2 bedrooms. Benefitting from UPVC windows, modern kitchen with solid oak worktops. Living room with feature fireplace and wood burner. A good sized, well planted rear garden, with flowers and shrubs. Plus splendid summerhouse. Unrestricted parking. Stags Tel: 01308 428000

LODERS £325,000

A pretty 1980’s semi-detached cottage set in a central village location. With 2/3 bedrooms and sitting room with stone fireplace, all well presented. Small area of side garden plus rear raised, paved area for summer entertaining with mature planting. Allocated parking.

Symonds & Sampson Tel: 01308 422092

WEYMOUTH £250,000

A 2 double bedroom first floor apartment with private entrance. Generously sized reception room with decorative fireplace and French doors leading onto a Juliette balcony. Spacious kitchen overlooking garden and nature reserve. Communal gardens and private parking. Within close walking distance to the beach. Domvs Tel: 01305 757300

A UK premiere of a St Matthew Passion—from 1789

Lea-Cox, the choir’s accompanist, and a leading expert on the Bach family. “For this Passion setting, C.P.E. Bach drew on his father’s St Matthew Passion, rearranging some of the choruses for four, instead of eight–part, choir. Additionally, several of his father’s wonderful chorale harmonisations are included. In fact there is more of J.S. Bach in this work than there is of his son!”

HISTORY is in the making in Axminster. A rediscovered setting of the St Matthew Passion by C.P.E. Bach is set to be performed for the first time since 1789. Two hundred and thirty four years later, Axminster & District Choral Society will perform the UK première of this work on April 1st at 7.30pm in the Minster Church.

The second son of Johann Sebastian Bach, Carl Philipp Emanuel was appointed Director of Music for all five of the Hamburg churches in 1767. Part of the job description was to compose a setting of the Passion every year. But C.P.E. Bach was never to see a performance of this work, dying in December 1788, three months before it received its première.

“At the time, it was perfectly in order for composers to borrow and re–arrange the music of others” says Peter

“We are very lucky in having been given access to performing parts based on the critical edition CPE Bach: the Complete Works made available by the publisher, the Packard Humanities Institute” says Peter Parshall, the choir’s Director of Music. “It is very difficult for a choir of our size to perform the popular J.S. Bach St Matthew Passion, because it demands both double choir and double orchestra and we don’t have space for all the musicians required. We are therefore fortunate to have the opportunity of offering a flavour of one of the great J.S. Bach Passions, specially modified by his son, to those in the South West who do not usually have the opportunity of hearing a live performance of this work”.

The concert, featuring professional soloists and orchestra, takes place on Saturday, April 1st at the Minster Church, Axminster at 7.30pm. Tickets cost £12 and £15 from Archway Books, Trinity Square, Axminster, by phoning 01404 41907, or on-line at www.axminsterchoral. co.uk.

For further information contact Elizabeth Twining on 01404 43805 or at cpebach.axminster@gmail.com.

Axminster & District Choral Society in rehearsal for a historical performance

WATERCRESS SOUP WITH A POACHED BURFORD BROWN

With the trend of healthy juices and juice bars I’m surprised we don’t see watercress featuring in its own right or as an ingredient as it’s super high in iron, calcium and vitamin C and is superior in flavour to a lot of healthy juice ingredients and has a fantastic colour.

I’ll be joining in in the watercress celebrations in Arlesford Hampshire for the annual Watercress Festival on the 21st May.

INGREDIENTS

• 250g watercress, stalks removed and reserved

• 1 small leek, trimmed, roughly chopped and washed

• 30g butter

• 20g plain flour

• 1 litre vegetable stock (a good cube is fine)

• Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

• 4 ducks eggs

Serves 4

DIRECTIONS

1. Cut the stalks from the watercress and put the leaves to one side. Gently cook the leek in the butter in a covered pan until soft, without allowing it to colour.

2. Stir in the flour then gradually add the vegetable stock and bring to the boil, season and simmer for 10 minutes, then add the watercress stalks and simmer for another 5 minutes.

3. Add the rest of the watercress, simmer for a minute and blend the soup in a liquidiser or nutribullet until smooth. Return to the pan, re season if necessary and keep hot with a lid on whilst the eggs are poaching.

4. Meanwhile poach the eggs and drain on some kitchen paper. Ladle the soup into warmed bowls and place the egg into the centre.

A thirst for life

NOT everything you love is good for you. That’s the central theme of Thirst, coming to the Gaggle of Geese at Buckland Newton on Sunday 5th March. It’s a show about love—love of pubs, love of community, love of family ... love of alcohol.

Everyone has heard of the 27 Club. In July 2018, two months before his 28th birthday, Callum nearly joined that list and was forced to discover who he is without looking through the bottom of a bottle.

Callum Patrick Hughes brings music, honesty and warmth to his one-man show, which begins at 6.30pm. Join him on a sometimes bumpy ride from a small Oxfordshire town, through Beijing and the Scottish Highlands to the bright lights of the Big Smoke.

Combining storytelling and song, Thirst is both a love letter to sobriety and a celebration of all things alcoholic—exploring life, family, theatre, religion and how creating a community under the roof of your nearest watering hole doesn’t have to involve alcohol.

Callum Patrick Hughes looks at love and alcohol in his show Thirst

Take the helm at Bridport Open Studios

First held in 1999, Bridport Open Studios has grown to become a much anticipated event in the wider local community. Local artist Kit Glaisyer is looking for a new team to take it forward.

In recent years, Bridport has become renowned for its vibrant arts scene, and the annual Bridport & West Dorset Open Studios event has played a significant role, offering the public an opportunity to explore our artists’ studios, discover local galleries and sometimes even visit the artists’ homes.

Artist Caroline Ireland started the event over the three days of the August Bank Holiday Weekend in 1999, and since then it’s then been led by several different Directors, including Louise Wender, Cece Mills, Jaki Rabbetts, Philomena Harmsworth, and Kit Glaisyer. By 2019 it had grown to a nine-day event with over 100 local artists in 50 venues across Bridport & West Dorset.

However, with the onset of the pandemic the event could not take place and has been in abeyance ever since. Long-time Director, artist Kit Glaisyer has stepped down so he can concentrate on running his Bridport Contemporary Gallery, at 11 Downes Street, Bridport. He says, ‘a lot of artists have been asking me if the event will run this year, but I can’t take it on myself, except in an advisory capacity. It’s been a privilege to have been director for so many years, and I have a lot of experience and tips to pass on, but I would now like to hand it over to a new director with a new dedicated team.’

The new team will inherit an event that has evolved into a highly coordinated organisation with clearly defined roles, which will be of great benefit to the new director whether or not they are already experienced in organising or managing events.

Caroline Ireland adds, ‘I’ve always loved the way new directors have come forward and brought new ways of doing things to the event, ways that I would never have thought of myself. BOS has been a huge benefit to the local creative community, and it’s also played a key role in encouraging tourism and boosting the local economy. Now we need new people to take it forward with fresh ideas.’

For many years, the Event Guide was produced by Fergus Byrne, editorial director of the Marshwood Vale Magazine, and in recent years Kate Gowrie has further developed it into a 48-page magazine, including several helpful art trails, informative artist & venue details, and brilliant maps designed by Ian Escott. Photographers Pete Millson, Brandan Buesnel, and George Wright have provided stunning portraits of participating artists; Paul Blow has designed the Guide Covers; and Damon Allen acted as webmaster.

BOS has also established great relationships with local companies such as Creeds, who print the Guides; Bridport

Banners who make the Arrows & Banners; and Footprints who help with various print jobs, including the event Posters.

In terms of budget, BOS has been entirely funded by the artists and advertisers, sometimes with the additional support of an event Sponsor and funding from the Town or County Council. Adding a dedicated Fund Raiser to the team would make an excellent addition, so do let us know if you think you might be able to help in some manner!

Crucially, BOS has been supported by many loyal advertisers over the years, mainly local businesses, as well as organisations across the West Country. It’s also been a huge bonus when we can find a generous event Sponsor, so again, do let us know if your organisation would like to get involved.

We’ve generally found that a 3-person team works best, with a Director, Event Coordinator, and an Administrator who can all commit to run the event over a six-month period from April to September. All three management roles are part-time and suitable for anyone interested or experienced in freelance work in arts admin. Timewise, typically the Director provides 120 hours, the Event Coordinator, 100 hours, and the Administrator, 80 hours. Previous coordinators in recent years include Tasha Lummes, Suzy Moger, Paul Newman, Megan Dunford, Nicole Burt, and Charlie Francis-Pape.

The BOS team also seems to benefit most from having a mix of skills, some creative, and others administrative. They will be required to liaise with the artists, manage their images & data to create content, as well as maintaining the website & social media. Someone on the team should also be good at social media and maintaining the website. Some writing skills are also recommended for preparing Press Releases, Guide Entries, Publicity, and the initial Event Proposals… which sets the ball rolling when they are sent out to potential artists & advertisers in March.

If you would like to support BOS as a Sponsor or Fund Raiser, get involved as a volunteer or as an assistant, or to discuss the Director’s role, then please contact Kit Glaisyer at kitglaisyer@gmail.com or 07983 465789.

Photographs by Pete Millson. From left to right: Alex Lowery, Jacy Wall, Katherine Lloyd, Nigel Dawes, Mart Tebbs, Sophie Sharp, Ella Squirrell, Peter Hitchin.

GALLERIES March

1 - 24 March

Kathy Little and Louise Plant Kathy Little’s paintings feature animated brushwork, flowing bands of paint and a drawn line that inscribes the surface. Sitting beautifully alongside these paintings, the exhibition will feature the exquisite sculptures by Fellow of the Royal Society of Sculptors, Louise Plant. Artwave West, Morcombelake, Dorset DT6 6DY. 01297 489746 www.artwavewest.com.

1 - 25 March

Jools Woodhouse is the guest artist for March. Jools creates vibrant expressive landscapes in her signature palette and works in acrylics and ink on wooden board and paper. Inspired by the local terrain of West Dorset and East Devon, her unique style is known locally and Jools sells her cards, fine art prints and paintings locally, across the UK and USA. Open daily from 8,30 til 4pm at Unique Framecraft, Unit’s 4 - 5 Millwey Rise Workshops, Second Avenue, Axminster EX13 5HH. Telephone 01297 613614 or 07801 260259. Instagram:- @ uniqueframecraft . What3words: warned.tasteful.elaborate.

1 - 31 March

Kit Glaisyer: The Marshwood Vale & Beyond is an evolving exhibition of West Country landscape paintings, with works on show in the gallery and studio. Open Weds & Sat 10-3pm or by appointment. Bridport Contemporary Gallery, 11 Downes Street, Bridport, Dorset DT6 3JR. 07983 465789 www.bridportcontemporary.com @ bridportcontemporary.

1 March - 2 April

Smalls For Walls 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. An exhibition which focuses on smaller works of art, with a maximum size of 30 cms x 30cms.

3 - 22 March

Wessex - Life and Land Exhibition of 14 Artists. The Jerram Gallery, Half Moon Street, Sherborne, Dorset DT9 3LN. 01935 815261. www.jeramgallery.com.

Until 4 March

A Language of Seeds Series of photographs by Devonbased artist Léonie Hampton celebrating her vegetable garden, family and friends while responding to Royal Albert Memorial Museum’s botany collection. Tuesday – Saturday, 10am – 5pm. Thelma Hulbert Gallery, Dowell St, Honiton EX14 1LX thelmahulbert.com. 01404 45006.

Home and Away Christopher Riisager Also: Robert Medley RA, Paintings, Drawings & Prints, The Art Stable, Kelly Ross Fine Art, Child Okeford, Dorset DT11 8HB. kellyross@ theartstable.co.uk 07816 837905.

Schools Go Visual at Ilminster Arts Centre, TA19 0AN. The 10th exhibition featuring the creative talents of the pupils at schools in and around South Somerset. Free Entry. Open Tues-Sat, 09:30-15:00. https://www.ilminsterartscentre.com/ exhibitions

From 4 March

Remembering Corrie Exhibition and sale of clothes, textiles and artwork by Corrie van Rijn (1953 - 2021) with furniture by Alan Hussey. Beach & Barnicott, 6 South Street, Bridport DT6 3NQ. Mon & Fri 10am - 3pm, Wed & Sat 10am - 1pm.

4 - 19 March

A Lifetime Burning in Every Moment 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. A retrospective of the late Phillip Willcocks’s work. The title of the show comes from the end of “East Coker”, one of T S Eliot’s Four Quartets that Phil particularly loved.

4 March - 30 April

Abstract Ceramics Natasha Daintry, Nicolas Lees, James Rigler also Thiebault Chague Woodfiring in Action; also Sandrine Bringard Splash! part of Ceramics Season, Messums Wiltshire, Place Farm, Tisbury, SP3 6LW. messums wiltshire.com

Until 5 March

Portraits of Golden Cap Local artist Edward Hall draws inspiration from the iconic form and setting of this highest point on the south coast. Rotunda Gallery, Lyme Regis Museum, Bridge St, Lyme Regis DT7 3QA, Tues/Wed-Sat 10am-5pm; Sun 10am-4pm, www. lymeregismuseum.co.uk.

7 March - 1 April

Inhabit The Brunel Broderers are a group of artists based in the South West of England who have built up a following within the textile world for challenging expectations in the medium traditionally called ‘embroidery’. Today their work defies a neat title, encompassing a diverse range of approaches, methods and materials. Each member will be showing a recent body of work around the word ‘inhabit’, with members adopting their own approach. For some, the word may suggest the living in or physical occupation of place. For others, it may evoke ideas around reflection or memory relating to place. Ilminster Arts Centre, TA19 0AN. Tues-Sat, 9.30am - 3pm. Free entry. https://www.ilminsterartscentre.com/ exhibitions.

7 March - 23 April

A Celebration of Sky An exhibition of cloudscape lino prints by Exeter-based printmaker Steve Manning. Rotunda Gallery, Lyme Regis Museum, Bridge St, Lyme Regis DT7 3QA, Tues/Wed-Sat 10am-5pm; Sun 10am-4pm, www.lymeregismuseum.co.uk

Until 18 March

Silence and slow time Louise Balaam, Nicholas Jones, Alfred Stockham and Petter Southall at Sladers Yard, West Bay, DT6 4EL. Tel’ 01308 459511.

18 March - 13 June

Paradise Found: New Visions of the Blackdown Hills explores the Blackdown Hills through the lens of 36 leading contemporary artists alongside works by members of the Camden Town Group. This new exhibition marks the launch of THG’s new East Devon wide engagement programme ‘Create Our Space’ funded by Arts Council England. 18 March, 4pm: Opening talk by Patrick Baty on Stanisława De Karlowska. Open Tuesday - Saturday, 10am - 5pm. Thelma Hulbert Gallery, Elmfield House, Dowell St, Honiton EX14 1LX.

25 March - 11 April

Chasing The Light 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. A retrospective of the late Michael Chappell’s work. Profits from sales of the exhibition will be donated to the Joseph Weld Hospice in Dorchester.

Until 31 March

Brian Taylor by appointment only. Approximately 30 works by the artist Brian Taylor (1935-2013) will be on show in the exhibition including many bronze sculptures which have rarely been on public display since the early 1960s. Messums Wiltshire Place Farm, Court St, Tisbury, Salisbury SP3 6LW.

Until 1 April

Grad Race exhibition of work by recent graduates from two of the South West’s leading universities, Arts University Bournemouth and Solent University in Southampton. This exhibition aims to provide a platform for emerging artists as they navigate one of the hardest points in their careers, and contains themes of politics, race, class, domestic abuse,

gender, social media, grief and the body. Bridport Arts Centre. 9 South St, Bridport DT6 3NR. 01308 424901. https://www.bridport-arts.com/

Until 8 May

Rodney Graham Getting it Together in the Country Rodney Graham (1949 – 2022) expanded his diverse practice to encompass photography, painting, sculpture, film, video and music. A true polymath, Graham seamlessly inhabited different personae, genres and art forms throughout his unparalleled career. Hauser & Wirth Somerset, Durslade Farm Dropping Lane, Bruton Somerset BA10 0NL. The New Bend Curated by Legacy Russell, Executive Director & Chief Curator of The Kitchen, ‘The New Bend’ travels from Hauser & Wirth Los Angeles to Somerset. The exhibition brings together 12 contemporary artists working in the raced, classed and gendered traditions of quilting and textile practice. The artists featured are Anthony Akinbola, Dawn Williams Boyd, Myrlande Constant, Ferren Gipson, Tomashi Jackson, Basil Kincaid, Eric N. Mack, Sojourner

Truth Parsons, Tuesday Smillie, Rachel Eulena Williams, Qualeasha Wood and Zadie Xa. Hauser & Wirth Somerset, Durslade Farm Dropping Lane, Bruton Somerset BA10 0NL.

Until 21 July

Spring Exhibition gallery & guest artists. Tincleton Gallery, The Old School House, Tincleton, nr Dorchester, DT2 8QR. http://www.tincletongallery.com.

PREVIEW March

Losing your sight and finding yourself TOURING

A NEW play by Lyme Regis-based artist Kitty Waldron with writer Christine Diment explores the experience of losing your sight and adapting to living with physical disability. Rose is touring the area in March, beginning at Dorchester Corn Exchange on Thursday 9th March.

The play was developed in part at Poole’s Lighthouse arts centre in a week’s residency under the Sanctuary artist development scheme. The tour continues at Bridport Arts Centre on Tuesday 14th March, the Marine Theatre at Lyme Regis on Tuesday 21st, Taunton’s Brewhouse arts centre on Friday 24th, ending at Poole Lighthouse on Thursday 30th.

“Kitty wanted to tell her story through a third party,” says Christine. “Through the writing process, which during Covid lockdowns was all online of course, we created this character Rose who finds love with a young man called Matt who exists on the fringes of society. He has tattoos and piercings and a Mohican haircut that might repel people, but of course Rose doesn’t see that. She just loves the person.”

Rose is directed by Charmaine K Parkin with Anna Scutt as Rose and Jake Baker as Matt.

A Dickens of an evening DORCHESTER

ON Friday 10th March, the theatre at Thomas Hardye School in Dorchester will be transformed for a Dickensian evening, raising funds for Dorchester Arts.

The performers will be led by Dame Harriet Walter and her husband, American actor Guy Paul, who have a home in Dorset. Magician The Great Baldini, the Encore Singers and members of Dorchester Youth Theatre will also be

contributing to this fun event, which includes a light supper and a tot of wine, and enough laughs to make Ebenezer Scrooge crack a smile. The audience members are invited to dress as their favourite characters from Dickens’ works, and there will be prizes.

You can find out more about this “evening with a Twist” at www.dorchesterarts.org.uk, or by telephoning 01305 266926.

Jonny keeps going

BUCKLAND NEWTON

POET, storyteller and all-round eccentric Jonny Fluffypunk has a new show about searching for your inner hero and he is bringing it to The Gaggle of Geese in Buckland Newton on Sunday 26th March at 6.30pm.

Like most of us, Jonny thinks the world has gone nuts. We all have our problems and Jonny has his. He also built himself a shed in lockdown, in which to work out how to get through it. This new show, If We Just Keep Going, We Will Get There in the End, is the result.

Inspired equally by idleness, ancient myths, and Grayson Perry’s Art Club, it is part story, part poetic digression and part community support group.

Mark Steel is in ...

BRIDPORT

IRREVERENT travel guide, witty social commentator and all round entertainer, Mark Steel brings his latest show, An Evening and a Little Bit of a Morning, to Bridport’s Electric Palace on Thursday 23rd March, at 8pm.

Mark Steel says: “There is so much to yell about. There’s the modern world in which you spend so long trying to work out iTunes, that it’s easier to form a band and learn the songs. But there’s also so much to be delighted with.

Rose, a new play about living with blindness and physical disability – pictured are the cast and writer Christine Diment

Like the fact that everyone in Northampton knows the sign that says ‘Family Planning Advice—Use Rear Entrance’.

“Then there’s the crazy story of being brought up in a working-class street in Kent, to discover my natural father was a millionaire backgammon player who was best mates with Lord Lucan.

“I’ve come to terms with the fact I’m a heap of contradictions, trying to stay young while being unable to log into any website. Trying to be respectable and mainstream (in this show there will even be a piano and a bit of singing), until I can’t help breaking into a steaming rant that would get me locked away somewhere secure if it wasn’t on a stage.

“And this is stand-up, so whatever has happened in the room, in the town or in the world that day will almost certainly be in the show. So, I’ll try to keep it to a decent length, but it could so easily end up as an evening and part of the next day.”

Into the dark zone BRIDPORT

YOU know the story of Orpheus and his true love Eurydice? She is in the land of the dead and he can bring her out as long as he doesn’t look back ... but of course he does. This ancient Greek myth lives again in The Crick Crack Club’s Orpheus Dismembered on Friday 24th March at Bridport Arts Centre.

There is no remembering without forgetting, no rebirth without death, no ascent without descent… These are the

dark mysteries that storyteller Ben Haggarty will guide you through, with music by Jonah Brody.

Enter a subterranean dreamscape to meet Dionysus, God of Wine, born once from his mother and again from Zeus, Orpheus who can only find love through separation, Eurydice and Persephone eternally bound to the land of the dead, and Aphrodite scattering seeds of chaos.

Voices of pioneering women DORCHESTER

WOMEN’s History Month is marked by Dorchester Arts with a performance of a fascinating new play, Nothing On Earth, at the Corn Exchange on Friday 24th March at 8pm.

The setting of Anna Reynolds’ inventive and enjoyable exploration of female success and adventure is ... a care home.

There’s a room in the care home that no one goes into. Jade, who had to relinquish her high-flying life as cabin crew and now works as a carer, steps across the threshold.

Voices from adventure’s golden age surround her— women who flew Spitfires, crossed continents in pursuit of Chairman Mao, parachuted out of rickety hot air balloons, shouted “No Surrender” into the mouths of the guns.

Long forgotten stories tell themselves. The songs and voices of these pioneering women ring around the room. What’s going on?

Pursued by a Bear’s production, directed by Rosamunde Hutt, is a fantastical, heart-catching, time-travelling tale of female experiences and women taking flight.

Pursued by a Bear bring a story of women pioneers to Dorchester in Nothing on Earth

Viola takes centre stage

CONCERTS IN THE WEST

THE March series of Concerts in the West brings the viola-piano duo, Rosalind Ventris and Richard Uttley, to Bridport Arts Centre at 11.30am on Friday 3rd and Ilminster Arts Centre at 7.30pm that evening, and to The Dance House at Crewkerne on Saturday 4th at 7.30pm.

The programme features works by Robert Schumann and his wife Clara, the 20th century Anglo-American composer and violist Rebecca Clarke and Russian composer Sergei Rachmaninov.

British violist Rosalind Ventris has an international career as a soloist and chamber musician, has made many recordings and is renowned for her interpretation of contemporary music—she has worked with composers Garth Knox and Sally Beamish—as well as classical works.

As a recitalist, she has performed at many leading venues including the Royal Festival Hall, Wigmore Hall, Aldeburgh Festival and Het Concertgebouw. She is the director of musical performance and performance studies at the University of Oxford, and is a professor of viola at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama.

Soloist, chamber musician and recording artist, Richard Uttley is a regular broadcaster on BBC Radio 3 and has featured on BBC Two, BBC Four, BBC World Service, Classic FM and Sky Arts. Highlights this season include recitals in the Musikverein (Vienna), Elbphilharmonie (Hamburg), BOZAR (Brussels) and Gulbenkian Foundation (Lisbon) with horn player Ben Goldscheider, Wigmore Hall with violist Jordan Bak, and chamber music with composer-clarinettist Mark Simpson and cellist Leonard Elschenbroich at Kings Place.

He is a piano professor at the Royal College of Music and also teaches in the RCM Junior Department, at Guildhall School of Music and Drama, City, University of London and the Royal Welsh College of Music & Drama.

Award-winning Canadian play SYDLING ST NICHOLAS

A ROMANTIC comedy by Canadian playwright Kate Hewlett makes its UK debut this spring, and local audiences have two opportunities to see it with Artsreach, including Friday 10th March at Sydling St Nicholas village hall.

The Swearing Jar won Best of the Fringe at Toronto Fringe Festival on its première in Canada in 2008, and outstanding new play at the New York International Fringe Festival in 2010. A film adaptation was released in 2022. This spring, New Perspectives’ artistic director Angharad Jones directs the UK premiere.

Finding one true soulmate is fortunate. Finding two ... life becomes complicated.

Meet husband and wife, Simon and Carey—the perfect couple. He has some news to share, but she gets in first with a jar. The swearing has to stop. They are having a baby! When Carey enlists the help of a new musician friend to throw a birthday concert for her husband we discover life-changing secrets of their past...

Artsreach director Kerry Bartlett says: “Founded in 1973, New Perspectives has always created exciting, provocative and nationally significant work specifically for rural venues and audiences and we are excited to welcome them back to Dorset for this first time since the pandemic”

This bittersweet comedy offers audiences a warm embrace, full of heartbreak, humour and songs. There is a second performance at Sturminster Marshall’s Memorial Hall on Saturday 11th March; both performances are at 7.30pm.

Screen Time

with Nic Jeune

Top Six at the Flix

The Electric Palace Bridport

Puss in Boots: The Last Wish (2022)

It is not only one of the best animated films of the year, but it’s one of DreamWorks’ best, and one that will strike a chord with moviegoers of all ages. It’s equal parts exciting and hilarious as well as earnest, it never feels like it is talking down to anyone. Collider. Nate Richard.

Bridport Arts Centre

Tell it to the Bees (2018)

An elegantly crafted, quietly touching adaptation of the Fiona Shaw novel. The List. Allan Hunter.

Netflix

Luther: The Fallen Sun (2023)

Luther’s back—and the movie trailer justifies Idris Elba’s return thanks to the scariest villain yet. It looks like a gritty James Bond film—but 100 times more unhinged.

The Independent. Jacob Stolworthy.

BBC iPlayer

Never Rarely Sometimes Always (2020)

At once dreamlike and ruthlessly naturalistic, steadily composed yet shot through with roiling currents of anxiety, Never Rarely Sometimes Always is a quietly devastating gem. Variety. Andrew Barker.

Stairway to Heaven (Original Title A Matter of Life and Death)

Stairway to Heaven (1946) is one of the most audacious films ever made—in its grandiose vision, and in the cozy English way it’s expressed. Roger Ebert.com.

Film Stars Don’t die in Liverpool (2017)

It’s a beguiling story and Bell and Bening are tremendous as the star-crossed lovers. The Guardian. Peter Bradshaw.

She hasn’t finished DRIMPTON

IN her fantasies, Brenda Read-Brown is an imprisoned pensioner who rescues fellow passengers from crashed aeroplanes. But who is she really? Join the poet and storyteller at The Royal Oak in Drimpton on Sunday 12th March at 6.30pm to find out.

In real life Brenda is a bit of a hoarder who likes Greek islands and her solo show, But I Haven’t Finished Yet , is a hilarious celebration of growing older. She has performed her poetry on BBC Radio 4, in the House of Lords, at festivals, and in Denmark and Texas.

The event is part of the INN Crowd programme, which works in Dorset with Artsreach to promote spoken word, poetry and live literature artists and performers in rural pubs.

Award for BSO chief executive POOLE

THIS year will mark Dougie Scarfe’s tenth anniversary as chief executive of the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra (BSO). The year began in style with the Orchestra Manager of the Year award at the ABO/Classical Music Awards in Leeds, recognising his work in championing inclusion and innovation in classical music, particularly the BSO’s investment in its digital infrastructure.

The orchestra’s live-streamed symphonic concerts, launched in 2020, ensured the public continued to enjoy great music and that musicians were kept active during the pandemic. The BSO became one of the first British orchestras to return to the concert stage, when it gave its first symphonic livestream—and its broadcasts have since widened access to culture for many people previously excluded due to rural isolation or poor health. In 2021 and 2022, an astonishing total of 23,099 digital tickets were sold for the 44 live-streamed performances, reaching viewers in six continents.

The award also recognises Dougie Scarfe’s work with BSO Resound, which became the first disabled-led ensemble at the core of a major orchestra when it was launched in 2018, and his commitment to commission music that will build the repertoire for inclusive ensembles.

Storyteller Brenda Read Brown celebrates the “joys” of growing older

Rising star at Jazz Jurassica LYME REGIS

THE March guest of the Jazz Jurassica series at the Marine Theatre, Lyme Regis, on Friday 24th is Xhosa Cole, a Birmingham-born, multi-award-winning sax player, with his new ensemble, Rhythm-a-ting.

Xhosa (pronounced Zosa), who explores the music of jazz genius Thelonious Monk, grabbed the national limelight by winning the BBC’s Young Jazz Musician of the Year in 2018. In the following year he won the Parliamentary Jazz Award for Newcomer of the Year, and Jazz FM’s Breakthrough Act of the Year. He grew up in Handsworth, and follows in the footsteps of fellow sax-playing Brummies—Soweto Kinch and Shabaka Hutchings. He completed a sell-out 24date national tour in 2019 and released his debut album K(no)w Them, K(no)w Us in July 2021. The critical response to the album was universally ecstatic. All this at only 24 years old at the time!

He’s still part of the Birmingham scene despite his growing celebrity: “It’s all well and good to strive for your own instrumental thing,” he says. “But the flip side is making sure you’re available to help support the young ones. That’s a big part of why I am still in Birmingham, because I can contribute here.”

The irresistible rhythms of gypsy jazz VILLAGES

BORN out of a deep love of the music of Django Reinhardt (and anything that swings), the gypsy jazz band Latchepen is an acoustic jazz string quartet with a difference. Catch them at their Dorset dates, from 3rd to 5th March.

With influences ranging from Romani music to bebop, Matt Holborn (violin), Kourosh Kanani (guitar), Dave Kelbie (guitar) and Simon Read (bass) regularly play at London venues including Ronnie Scotts, and tour all over the UK at arts venues and village halls.

Enjoy a swinging evening with Latchepen at in Broadwindsor Comrades Hall on Friday 3rd March, Langton Matravers on Saturday 4th and St John’s Church, Hinton Martell, on Sunday 5th March; all starting at 7.30pm.

The Young Lit Fix

Crook Haven, The School for Thieves

By J.J. Arcanjo

Published by Hodder RRP £7.99

Recommended by Nicky Mathewson for Ages 9+

GABRIEL Avery is 13 years old and a highly skilled pick pocket. If his grandma found out she’d flip, but he does what he has to do to keep them from starving. Grandma cleans for a pittance to keep them in the most basic accommodation and Gabriel has learned to fend for himself and help her as much as he can.

He often works his trade at the train station where he lives in Torbridge, Devon, and as he is picking a pocket one day he realises that his most beloved treasure has been stolen from him! The only thing Gabriel has of his parents is a blackened coin which he always carries.

He notices the man who’s wallet he just stole has boarded a train and he is holding something up to the glass; Gabriel’s coin!

Inside the man’s wallet there is a note which reads “You’re good. I’m better.” On the reverse are some instructions which lead him to a remarkable school and a chance for a brighter future.

Crookhaven is a school for crooks who show true talent. The students are trained in all areas of criminality with the intention of doing good in the world. Each student is training to be a modern day Robin Hood. However, all is not as it seems at Crookhaven and when students start to disappear, Gabriel and his new found friends have reason to be very worried. The mythical criminal underworld is starting to become a real threat.

This is the first in a new middle grade series, and is a fast paced, fun adventure with a wonderfully eclectic mix of characters. I loved it and can’t wait to read about Gabriel’s second year at Crookhaven.

10% off for Marshwood Vale readers at The Bookshop on South Street, Bridport. 01308 422964 www.dorsetbooks.com

GPW

Rising star Xhosa Cole is coming to Jazz Jurassica at Lyme Regis

Nick Fisher 1959 - 2022

Next to a small concrete bridge over a stream below my home, there are the remains of a tyre swing and a children’s den made from old pallets. Every time I cross that little bridge I am reminded of the day the late Nick Fisher and his young sons—with sporadic, though enthusiastic help from my daughters—spent an afternoon building that den and swing. Those memories form part of our personal legacy from someone who will be sadly missed throughout the local community.

After sixteen years as a contributor to this magazine the tragic loss of award-winning writer and broadcaster Nick Fisher has been keenly felt by readers and contributors.

The son of Olive (née Wilson) and David Fisher, Nick hadn’t initially planned to follow in his father’s footsteps; his Dad had written for TV with credits that included Doctor Who and Dixon of Dock Green. Growing up in Glasgow with two older sisters, Nick talked about having a trade but when the family moved to Cromer on the Norfolk coast he developed what would become a lifelong obsession with fishing, eventually leading to broadcasting roles in Channel 4’s Screaming Reels and the radio programme Dirty Tackle.

After studying History of Art at the University of Sussex he moved to London where he worked in various jobs including as a painter and decorator, dustman, bingo caller, sandwich board carrier and art and antiques dealer. He often said he turned to freelance journalism ‘out of desperation’, seeing it as an option that

didn’t require references or qualifications. The result was a legacy of writing that touched readers and viewers all over the world.

Nick’s writing credits are vast. He was an agony uncle for Just Seventeen magazine and spent five years as The Sun’s film critic, interviewing people like Tom Cruise and Kylie Minogue. He won a Bafta for creating the ITV children’s drama The Giblet Boys and was one of the main writers on Holby City from 2008 until 2020. He also wrote episodes for New Tricks, EastEnders, Hustle and Casualty and created the BBC comedy drama series Manchild, starring Nigel Havers.

After his time contributing to Just Seventeen he also wrote a series of books including Your Pocket Guide to Sex, commissioned and published by the Health Education Authority. The book was first withdrawn from circulation over its frankness and controversy but was later published by Penguin books in 1994.

He was also well known for his work with Hugh FearnleyWhittingstall, with whom he wrote The River Cottage Fish Book. He also wrote a volume, Sea Fishing, for the River Cottage Handbook series as well as starring alongside Hugh in TV shows such as River Cottage: Gone Fishing

In an interview with this magazine about his novel, Pot Luck, Nick explained how he nearly didn’t complete the book, telling his family it didn’t seem worth it. Having let one of his sons read the first draft he tentatively asked his Dad how much it would cost to finish it. He was prepared to fundraise to help with its completion. That became the inspiration to persevere and the novel was published in 2016.

Nick Fisher passed away on November 19, 2022. He is survived by his wife of 30 years Helen, sons Rex, Rory and Patrick and his daughter Kitty.

Services&Classified FOR SALE

New high quality electric bed, including new luxury mattress. Chrome plated legs which give a 9.5cm clearance from floor to allow use of various mobility aids. Bed is adjustable with dual motor control for head and foot. Bed size is 3 foot, weight limit 28 stone. Bed length is 6 feet 6 inches. £850. New Truma high pressure propane pigtail for motorhome or caravan. POL connector one end, M20 x 1.5mm left hand thread other end. £10. Antique gold plated leaf brooch with attractive cutout work. Length 5.5cm, width 3.5cm. Brooch is new condition and unworn £20. New white

fermentation bin, complete with bubbler grommet lid for air-lock, plus carry handle. Capacity 32 Litres.

£10. Denby hand painted Glyn Colledge Stoneware pottery graduated pot. Denby stoneware stamped on base of pot. Height 15cm, Diameter 18cm. This beautiful pot has never been in use. £20. Telephone 01935 824029.

Tresemme Volume Styler, model no 2776u, boxed, very good condition £15 01297 442793.

Vintage bamboo and rattan dressing table and stool, 2 x bedside tables and double bedhead. V g c

£350 buyer collects 077860

38162 Sidmouth area. Photos available.

Fascinator, Shona design. Cobalt blue. Purchased from Hobbs. £40. 07909 644454 (Tatworth area). 3 x laurel trees, 50cm. 70cm. 100cm. £10.00. Tel 01297 678602.

Corner T.V stand, black glass and chrome fittings with two shelves. Excellent condition, can send photo. £49. Tel 01460 55450. Floor lamp with light brown hardwood base and silk off white fluted shade. In as new condition. £50. Burton Bradstock. Tel 01308 898374.

Pine Glazed corner cupboard. Wall mounted with two shelves.

Height 40in, width 38in, depth 18in. £50. Buyer collects Morcombelake.

Pine dresser with 3 cupboards and 3 drawers. Base height 38in, length 64in, depth 22in. Rack height 51in, length 64in, depth 12in. £150. Buyer collects Morcombelake.

07800737090.

Extending 6-8 seater

M&S dining table and 6 chairs. ‘Sonoma’ 85x140extending to 187cm.

Predominantly solid American oak, still being sold by M&S. Excellent condition £200. Tel 01935 881039 or 07778209050.

Quality Wicker Hamper/ Picnic/Storage Baskets

- ideal for any room –various sizes. Bargain price compared to shops, £8 to £20 each. Bridport

07847289907.

Home Hub Boosters. set of 3. White. Original BT for Whole Home Wifi Extends range across your home. £30 or offer

Call /message 07958 239 732 (Powerstock).

IKEA jute rug ‘Lohal’ x 2 Good, clean condition. Approx 177cm x 240? (New from Ikea priced at £120 each- 160x 230). £60 each or £110 for 2. Telephone 01395 348024 Sidmouth but can deliver or discuss meeting point with potential buyer.

Gardening books 12 assorted sizes £15 only. 01308 456887.

White Trainers size 6, Marks & Spencer, new not wanted. 07889 019587.

07800737090.

Fergus Byrne

© Nick Fisher Photograph by Robin Mills

WANTED

Secondhand tools. All trades and crafts. Old and modern. G. Dawson. 01297 23826. www. secondhandtools.co.uk. July 23

Dave buys all types of tools 01935 428975 Apr 23

Coins wanted. Part or full collections purchased for cash. Please phone John on 01460 62109 Apr 23

Wanted - Old Enamel signs, slot machines, advertising, Military items, Interesting Items and collections, 07875 677897 Mar 23

Vintage & antique textiles, linens, costume buttons etc. always sought by Caroline Bushell. Tel. 01404 45901. Aug 23

Stamps & Coins

Wanted by collector/ investor. We are keen to purchase small or large collections at this time. Tel: Rod 07802261339 May 23

DISTRIBUTION

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 Mar 23

To advertise here email: info@marshwoodvale.com

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

Parkside PDS 200 A1 Double sander cost £55 never used. £25 telephone 0781 6018817.

Stripped pine display cabinet. Mirror backed with glass front . 3 internal shelves. Approx dimensions are: 180cm by 120 cm by 50 cm. The cabinet is lockable and comes with a key This

FOR SALE

is a heavy piece and will take at least 2 people to lift and secure. Looking for somewhere close to £150.

Telephone 01460 55702

Vauxhall Corsa RS Aluminium wheel and

nearly new tyre. 185/55 R15 82Y M.s Muzzini Eco307 £35.00 ono. 01404 881640.

Dog table Oypla portable heavy-duty folding dog grooming table. Size 23

inch x 35.5 inch height 33 inch. £25.00 ono 01404 881640.

Dog Pram Pawhut for small dog/cat Colour blue. Good condition £20.00. Come and view 01404 881640.

Black & Decker power combi 600w

GT660 Hedgetrimmer also interchangeable

GTB20 Shrub cutter + interchangeable GTB10 saw cassette for small tree branches with extension lead. £50.00 ono Nearly new. 01404 881640.

Dog car ramp Solvit Half ramp II for elevations up to 20 inches 40” x 17”. 01404 881640.

Rayburn Royal Grate Riddle Ring new £25.00. Trailer lights 5’ wide 25 ft cable £22.00. Phone 01297 489623.

Dinky Corgi toy car

boxes only for sale Collectors items offers around £100.00 1970’s Tel. Gavin 07958 106961.

Peugeot Natural City ladies bicycle, recently overhauled, new tyres, brakes, 4 speed, slight rusting handlebars, basket, £50.00 Collect 01308 456565.

Reebok Titanium TX1-0 cross trainer. Excellent condition £125.00 ono 01308 482451 07391 610698.

Sharp stereo music system CM5-150CDE

CD/Radio/cassette/ turntable speakers, CD drive needs attention £15.00 ono 01305 750557 (Weymouth).

Crossword solver Seiko Oxford ER360. Brand new in original box. Cost £65 accept £20. Tel 01305 871089.

Quality (Moonraker)

single divan and mattress, both in excellent condition. £90. Buyer collects from Merriott 01460 76545. Quality metal frame single bedstead and mattress, both in excellent condition. £75. Buyer collects from Merriott 01460 76545.

Logmaster electric/ hydraulic log splitter. Model WLS370-B / WLS520-B £80.00. Buyer collects. Hardly used. Phone 01935 881827. Baby Bjorn navy baby carrier. Reasonable condition 66-90cm.

£4.00. Bee-Keeper full suit with head covering. Large size £18. Coopers instant water boiler. 4 litre. 5 temperature settings, 3 volume settings. Good condition. £30. Indian tree design tea set, 6 cups

& saucers, jug, sugar bowl & teapot (or coffee). Ex condition £18. Large heavy glass water jug & 5 glasses with lovely etched barley design £15. 07456 730753.

Set of BT cordless phones with base station, new unused in box, missbuy £25. 078408 03872.

2 Single Pine beds with mattresses, used infrequently, £30 each or £50 the two. 01460 77009, 07466 650755.

Zanussi Oven very good condition cost over £300 new, £70ovno. 01308 456614.

Royal Mint Proof Coin sets 1970s to 2015. All in original packaging. £995. 07443 833268 or 01305 772712.

Dining Table Hardwood teak colour 900mm x 120mm. Extends to

1600mm with six matching chairs, vgc £80. Garden Composter 200 litre Plysu, green plastic vgc. £20. Sofas Dove Grey matching. 13 months old 3 seater 1800mm x 900mm. 2 seater 1400mm x 900mm. As new £400ono. Can email photo. Selling due to move. 01297 639033. Aluminium ladder working height 20ft plus, 2 x 15 ft sections, £40. 01308 420302.

Forme Hopton Ladies retro style step through bicycle. Purchased in 2019. Used only three or four times and has ben dry stored since then. Medium size frame and fitted with Shimano 7 speed gear set with twist grip selection. In unmarked excellent condition. £135. 01308 868094.

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