What's on in and around the Vale
Coast and Countryside Events
June 2008

Saturday 24 May - Sunday 8 June
Dorset Art Weeks 2008 Various venues across Dorset. www.dorsetartweeks.co.uk or www.dorsetvisualarts.org

Exhibition by Local Artists Celebrating Creation St John’s Church, West Bay, Bridport, weekdays and Sats 9am-5pm, Suns 1-5pm. Donations in support of Julia’s House, Dorset’s Children’s Hospice. Everyone welcome. 01308 423475.

Sunday 24 May - mid July
Abbotsbury Village Festival arts and crafts exhibitions and workshops, St. Nicholas Church flower festival, story telling, guided walks, drama and music - highlights being the Abbotsbury Heritage Fayre's candle-lit St Catherine's Chapel and Midsummer Merriment in the Great Tithe Barn, the Rude Mechanical Theatre's 'Noah Babel's Ark', 'Show of Hands' in the Sub-Tropical Gardens and Abbotsbury Music presenting Donizetti's opera 'Don Pasquale', performed by an internationally acclaimed touring company. Full programme of events and activities available from village outlets, tourist board centres, www.westdorset.com and www.abbotsbury.co.uk.

Monday 2
Every Monday "Weight Watchers" at The Guildhall, Chard. 6.30pm til 8.30pm. 01460 65282. Every Monday New from June 2nd Weight watchers 10am.

Tuesday 3
Antiques Fair 9am -4pm Marine Theatre, Lyme Regis. 01297 442138.

Bridport Disabled Carers and Friends Club neet every Tuesday, 9am - 12 noon at Kings House, Kings Street School, East St, Bridport. All welcome, Norddis - Information service 01308 427819.

Tae Kwon'Do Every Tuesday at The Guildhall Chard. 3.30pm-5.30pm. 01460 65282.

Tuesday 3 - Saturday 7
Hinton St George Music Festival Tue 3rd Sunset Cafe Stompers 7.30pm; Wed 4th Young Musicians 7pm ; Thur 5th Crispian Steele-Perkins accompanied by Leslie Pearson 7.30pm; Fri 6th The Huckleberries 7.30pm; Sat 7th Emma Johnson with the Endellion String Quartet 7.30pm. All concerts take place in St George’s Church, Hinton St George. Tickets from 01460 72563.

Wednesday 4
Sherborne Science Cafe
Monthly café, starts 7.30pm. Visit to the Museum of Scientific Instruments and the PhysicGarden in Oxford. Sherborne House, Newland, Sherborne. 01935 815052. www.sherbornesciencecafe.co.uk.

Uplyme and Lyme Regis Horticultural Society 7.30pm talk, ‘Colour in the garden’ by Phil Gamble. Uplyme Village Hall.

Axe Vale & DCS volunteer work party. Near Colyton. Balsam pulling to remove this highly invasive plant. 10am-4pm
Organiser Christina Bows 01297 445084.

Heathland amble at Arne 10.30 am-12.30 pm & 2 pm-4 pm. 01929 553360. From spiders to birds, dragonflies to reptiles. Meet at RSPB Arne nature reserve car park, near Wareham.

Nightjars on the heath at Arne 8 pm till late. Booking essential on 01929 553360. Meet at RSPB Arne nature reserve car park, near Wareham.

Parishscapes Uplyme walk - bringing the past to life Uplyme Village Hall. 1:45 - 3pm. Following the farming exhibition, take your first steps to becoming a landscape detective with Phil Planel and the Lyme Regis museum. Learn how farming methods have changed and shaped our landscape. Booking essential. 01404 46663.

Thursday 5
Bridport Electronic Organ Club Paul Roberts. 7 for 7.30pm, Bridport United Church Hall, East St. Visitors welcome. Hon Secretary Neil Rutter 01297 20861.

Line Dancing Brand new classes for Absolute Beginners 11am - 12 noon (Thursdays during term time). The Guildhall Chard. Val Curnock on 01460 65007.

Axe Vale & DCS heath and woodland walk at Hawkswood nature reserve. Nr Offwell. 10am-12.30pm. Marjorie Waters 01297 445388.

Wild flower wander at Radipole Lake 10 am-12 noon. 01305 778313. Meet at RSPB Radipole Lake visitor centre, Swannery car park, Weymouth.

Fashion Show with The Community Players, Lyme Regis Development Trust. 7.30pm Marine Theatre, Lyme Regis. Contact Diana 01297 445021.

Eckhart Tolle Study Group meets Axminster Awareness Centre, 7pm- 9.30pm. Please ring 01297 23607.

Music at the Minster: 24th season Lunchtime Concert The Beacon Piano Trio: Anna Cockcroft: violin Ruth Lass: 'cello Joyce Clarke: piano 12.30-1pm in The Minster followed by lunch @fivepastone.

The Voyage presented by Off the Wall Theatre Ensemble. By Lee Stroud. Cerne Abbas Village Hall. 7.30pm. Tickets on the door or from Lee 01305 259308 or from Words Etcetera Dorchester. Performed by actors from the Dorchester Community Play: Dave Lucas, John Ramsden, Lee Stroud and Dee Thorne together with Lindsay Maton.

Friday 6
Misterton Pre-school theme of being 'In the Garden', Bare Toed will perform on the recreation ground at 3.45pm, an amazing aerial dance piece, created especially for young audiences aged 2-6 years. This performance supported by Take Art. Contact Rachelle on 01460 746 88.

String Whistle Dave Rickard and his band will be bringing their popular brand of upbeat local folk back to the Electric Palace bar. 8pm. South Street, Bridport.

Chapel Choir at Knighton House School gala concert, with all proceeds to Julia’s House, the Dorset children’s hospice, in the beautiful setting of Melbury House, Dorchester, by kind permission of the Hon Mrs Charlotte Townshend. Gardens open from 6pm, concert 7pm, Tickets from Melanie Burton at Knighton House on 01258 452065.

Summer Kitchen at
The Voyage presented by Off the Wall Theatre Ensemble. By Lee Stroud. Burton Bradstock Village Hall. 7.30pm. Tickets on the door or from Lee 01305 259308 or from Words Etcetera Dorchester. Performed by actors from the Dorchester Community Play: Dave Lucas, John Ramsden, Lee Stroud and Dee Thorne together with Lindsay Maton.
East Devon Ramblers Walk Leisurely Friday morning walk from Budleigh Salterton Lime Kiln CP (SY073820). 5 miles. Starts 10.am.
Please confirm details with organiser on 01395 514542

Friday 6 - Sun 8
Wessex Folk Festival . www.wessexfolkfestival.co.uk or telephone 01305 860277 or 01305 821611 for further details.

Herbs for Healing - weekend course where you will learn to make
your own natural remedies. Monkton Wyld Court near Lyme Regis. www.monktonwyldcourt.org. 01297 560342.

Saturday 7
Soap Making with Sarah Meikle.10am - 3.30pm. The Magdalen Project, Magdalen Farm, Winsham, 01460 30144. www.themagdalenproject.org.uk.

Seaton Tramway 14th Annual Vintage Rally
Fair Field, Colyton
"Fair Field", Umborne Bridge, Colyton and Colyton Station. Variety of vintage cars, commercial vehicles, motorcycles, trade stands and lots more. 01297 20375. www.tram.co.uk.

Roddy Radiation and the Skabilly Rebels 8pm. Electric Palace, South St, Bridport.
The Popular Fayre 9am - 12.45pm homemade goods and crafts, jewellery, books, sweets, tombola and Bric-a- Brac. The Guildhall, Chard.

"Rascals C.C" 70's night disco (fancy dress optional) The Guildhall, Chard. 7.30pm - Midnight. Tickets from Chard TIC or on the night. 01460 65710.
Axminster Awareness Centre Complementary Therapies Open Day healing available all day 10am-4pm.

Foxglove Day at Holyford Woods Local Nature Reserve 2 - 4pm. Meet /park at layby on Seaton Down Hill. An EDDC event. 01395 517557.

BBC Springwatch with the RSPB Go wild in Weymouth. 10 am-12 noon Radipole Lake, 2 pm-4 pm Lodmoor. Booking essential on 01305 778313. Morning, meet at RSPB Radipole Lake visitor centre, Swannery car park, Weymouth. Afternoon, meet at the main Lodmoor reserve entrance off the A353 Preston Beach Road, Weymouth.

Fossil Hunting Walk
1pm. Charmouth Heritage Coast centre. Book on 01297 560772.

Tim Van Eyken Trio
8pm, The David Hall. Winner of the 1998 BBC Young Folk Award.
Tim and the band Van Eyken were nominated for no less than four BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards in 2007 and went on to scoop the award for Best Traditional Track with Barleycorn. Petherton Arts Trust, The David Hall. (01460) 240340.

The Perry Brass Quintet. Popular local quintet play in aid of the organ appeal. Tickets on door. 7.30pm. St. Michael's Church, Lyme Regis. www.lymeregisorganappeal.com .

Day of Tai Chi and Chi Kung in the beautiful gardens of Monkton Wyld Court - suitable for all levels. Monkton Wyld Court near Lyme Regis. www.monktonwyldcourt.org. 01297 560342.

Nightjars at Peek Hill nr Sidmouth. 9pm. A short walk led by Ian Waite. Meet Peek Hill car park (grid ref 109 873). Organised by East Devon DWT local group. Contact Christine Bows 01297 23822.

The Voyage presented by Off the Wall Theatre Ensemble. By Lee Stroud. Dorchester Arts Centre. 7.30pm. Tickets on the door or from Lee 01305 259308 or from Words Etcetera Dorchester. Performed by actors from the Dorchester Community Play: Dave Lucas, John Ramsden, Lee Stroud and Dee Thorne together with Lindsay Maton.

Moths to Midnight - National Moth Night led by Adrian Goodhand, 9pm to midnight. Booking essential. Kingcombe Centre, Toller Porcorum, Dorchester. 01300 320684.

Special Charity Concert featuring John Kirkpatrick
& The Stanchester Quire in aid of The Meningitis Trust. 7.30pm, The Temple Methodist Church, Upper High Street, Taunton, Somerset. The Meningitis Trust is committed to providing support for life to people who have suffered from the disease. It works to promote disease awareness in schools, colleges,
universities and health professionals. Tickets are available now from Folk South West, The Stables, Montacute House, Montacute, Yeovil. TA15 6XP. 01935 822911. folksw@folksw.org.uk. Tickets will also be available on the door although pre-booking is advisable.

Fossil Walk Ferrybridge Meet at the Crab House Cafe. 2pm. Contact Chesil Beach Centre, Portland Beach Road, Portland. 01305 760579. www.chesilbeach.org.
Rosenblatt Recital Branscombe Village Hall, 7.30pm. Ailish Tynan, soprano, Iain Burnside, piano. BBC presenter Petroc Trelawny. Tickets 01297 680423 (evenings), 01297 680118 or 01297 680225 (daytime). www.branscombevillagehall.org.

Craft Show at Maiden Newton Village Hall. Tables available. Contact Derek 01300 320532 after 6pm. In aid of Royal British Legion.

Traditional Georgian Male Voice Choir from the heart of the Caucasian mountains performed by Mteibe. 7pm. Portesham Village Hall. 01305 871780. For details of an associated workshop activity please call the Artsreach office 01305 269512.

Sunday 8
World Oceans’ Day at the Chesil Beach Centre. Organisations and individuals are invited to make contributions towards a display throughout the week. Contact Chesil Beach Centre, Portland Beach Road, Portland. 01305 760579. www.chesilbeach.org.

Craft Fair Branscombe Village Hall. 10am-5pm. Refreshments available. Enquiries to Jean & Wendy Clarke 01395 568815.

The Intricate Art of Lace an exhibition and demonstration of the intricate art of lace making by the Beer Lace Group. Fine lacework on display in the Lecture Theatre at Pecorama, Beer, 01297 21542.

Seaton Tramway Gala Day Seaton Tramway, Harbour Road, Seaton.
Enjoy a Tram Driving Experience, guided Depot visits, Photo Stops, a great day out for all the family. 01297 20375. www.tram.co.uk.

Cancer Research UK Race for Life Kingston Maurward College, Nr. Dorchester. 01305 215003.

Misterton Fete
Moths to Midday 9am to Midday, led by Adrian Goodhand. Booking essential. Kingcombe Centre, Toller Porcorum, Dorchester. 01300 320684.

Fossil Hunting Walk
1.30pm. Starting at Charmouth Heritage Coast centre. Please phone the wardens to book places on 01297 560772.

East Devon Ramblers Walk East and West of the Sid valley. From East Hill Strips, Core Copse (SY127950). 7.5 miles. Starts 10.30 am. Bring a picnic. Please confirm details with organiser on 01297 23424.

Monday 9
The Voyage presented by Off the Wall Theatre Ensemble. By Lee Stroud. Wareham United Reform Church. 7.30pm. Tickets on the door or from Lee 01305 259308 or from Words Etcetera Dorchester. Performed by actors from the Dorchester Community Play: Dave Lucas, John Ramsden, Lee Stroud and Dee Thorne together with Lindsay Maton.

Painting and Sketching Workshop Highway Farm, West Road, Bridport. Tutor Ann Gray. Beginners can be sure to receive individual help in overcoming initial anxieties and will produce a first painting. 01308 424321. www.highwayfarm.co.uk.

Tuesday 10
Antiques Fair 9am-4pm Marine Theatre, Lyme Regis. 01297 442138. www.marinetheatre.com.

A walk with the Arboricultural Officer at Dunkeswell to discuss some of the village's trees, their care and management. Meet outside the shops in Culme Way at 7pm. An EDDC event. 01395 517557.

Bridport Pyramid Schools Choral Festival 5.30pm Electric Palace Cinema, South Street, Bridport. Performance of ‘SONG RE-CYCLE’ a set of songs composed by Andrew Dickson on the subject of recycling and caring for our local environment, using different styles, harmonies and accompaniments. Tickets from local schools, at the door or phone 01308 456297. Supported by West Dorset District Council, Bridport Lions Club, Bridport Rotary Club and other local businesses and organisations. The Voyage presented by Off the Wall Theatre Ensemble. By Lee Stroud. Bere Regis Drax Hall. 7.30pm. Tickets on the door or from Lee 01305 259308 or from Words Etcetera Dorchester. Performed by actors from the Dorchester Community Play: Dave Lucas, John Ramsden, Lee Stroud and Dee Thorne together with Lindsay Maton.

Blackdown Hills AONB Source to Sea - part 1. 10am. First in a 3 part series of walks tracing the River Yarty from its source in the Blackdown Hills, along its course to meet the Axe and flow out to sea. Start at Deadman, at the source of the Yarty, Forrestry Commission gateway. Contact AONB office 01823 680681.

Tue 10 - Wed 11
Working with silver two-day class Tutor: Julian Livingstone. The Old Kennels, Stentwood, Dunkeswell. 01823 681138.

Wednesday11
28th Annual Organ Recital Prof. Ian Tracey, Ottery St Mary Parish Church. 7.45pm. Contact Ottery St Mary TIC.

Axe Vale & DCS nightjar walk. Mutter's Moor car park, near Sidmouth SY109874 8.30pm-10.30pm.

South Somerset Homes open day at The Guildhall, Chard from 12 noon until 7.00pm.

Bridport Pyramid Schools Choral Festival 1 .30pm Electric Palace Cinema, South Street, Bridport. (see entry for Tuesday 10th).

Heathland amble at Arne10.30 am-12.30 pm & 2 pm-4 pm. 01929 553360. From spiders to birds, dragonflies to reptiles. Meet at RSPB Arne nature reserve car park, near Wareham, Dorset BH20 5BJ.

Nightjars on the heath at Arne 8 pm till late. Booking essential on 01929 553360. Meet at RSPB Arne nature reserve car park, near Wareham.

The Voyage presented by Off the Wall Theatre Ensemble. By Lee Stroud. St John’s Church Hall, Portland. 7.30pm. Tickets on the door or from Lee 01305 259308 or from Words Etcetera Dorchester. Performed by actors from the Dorchester Community Play: Dave Lucas, John Ramsden, Lee Stroud and Dee Thorne together with Lindsay Maton.

East Coker Gardening Cub visit to Chelsea Physic Garden. Enquiries Hon Sec Catherine Denny 01935 862294 or Hon Treasurer Stan Shayler 01935 420291.

Thursday 12
East Coker Gardening Club talk John Stuart gives a ‘Portrait of Exmoor’. 7.30pm, East Coker Hall. New members and visitors are always welcome. Enquiries to the Secretary, Catherine Denney on 01935 862294 or to the Treasurer, Stan Shayler on 01935 420291.

Horse Owners First Aid Kits and Courses given by Roger Scammell of Milton Equine Veterinary Clinics. All proceeds to Animal Health Trust Strangles Appeal).
He has also put together a low-cost First Aid Kit.
6pm Milton Equine Weymouth Clinic,
Egdon Equine, Nottington, Weymouth.
01305 814318.

Music at the Minster: 24th season Lunchtime Concer Songs from Around the World
Wessex Women. Hear the entrancing sounds of this a capella group singing their own arrangements of folk songs. Director: Pella Tromans. 12.30-1.00pm in The Minster followed by lunch @fivepastone.

Thursday 12 - Friday 13
The Voyage presented by Off the Wall Theatre Ensemble. By Lee Stroud. Abbotsbury Village Hall. 7.30pm. Tickets on the door or from Lee 01305 259308 or from Words Etcetera Dorchester.

Thursday 12 - Saturday 14
'Cash on Delivery' a comedy by Michael Cooney will be performed by Chideock Players at Chideock Village Hall at 7.30pm. Tickets will be available from Mrs Baker on 01297 489555. If you would like to become a member of the Chideock Players please call the secretary Catherine Batten on 01308 897944.

Barnes Coffee Morning. Wonderful plants, cakes etc on offer to raise funds
for Axe Vale & District Conservation Society. 10am-12noon Hillhead, nr Colyton (SY243934).

Friday 13
Chard History Group Unique Clapton Mill – A talk by Craig Taylor in preparation for a visit there. 7,30pm Redstart School, Chard. Details 01460 65443.

Leon Rosselson and Robb Johnson, joining together for a rare joint appearance. The World Turned Upside Down, about the 17th century Diggers, have become classics of our time, covered by everyone from Billy Bragg to The Oyster Band. Bridport Arts Centre. 01308 424204 or www.bridport-arts.com.

Uplyme and Lyme Regis Horticultural Society coach outing with Axminster Horticultural Society to Shute House and Shaftesbury.

East Devon Ramblers Walk Leisurely Friday morning walk. From point East of The Rising Sun and South of Nichol's Reeds (ST222061). 5 miles. Starts 10am.
Please confirm details with organiser on 01404 815587.

Charterhouse Auction Antiques, Collector’s Items & Clocks The Long Street Salerooms, Sherborne. 01935 812277. Viewing times: Wednesday before sale 10 - 4, Thursday before sale 10 - 7, day of sale 8.30 untill 9.45, sale starts at 10am.

Saturday 14
West Fleet Walk Join the warden on a walk in this secluded part of the Fleet taking in the birds, plants and geology. Meet Abbotsbury Swannery car park. Contact Chesil Beach Centre, Portland Beach Road, Portland. 01305 760579. www.chesilbeach.org.

Psychic Fair held by Mike Hudd at The Guildhall Chard from 10am - 5.30pm.

Corscombe Street Fair 11am - 4pm. Markets stalls all down the High Street, Duck racing and kids zone including bouncy castle. Live Entertainment and refreshments.

Annual Nettle Eating Contest The Bottle Inn, Marshwood, Bridport .
An annual contest in which around 50 challengers are encouraged to eat more nettles than the current champion nettle-eater. Contestants are given two foot long stalks of stinging nettles and have one hour to eat as many leaves as possible. The winner is the person with the longest length of empty stalk. The competition stems from a contest between two farmers in the mid-1980s as to who had the longest stinging nettles. A longest nettle night was established. One day, a contestant called Alex Williams brought in a nettle over 15 foot long and said if anyone had a longer nettle he would eat his. His nettles were subsequently beaten and he duly ate them giving rise to the annual nettle-eating contest. 01297 678254. www.thebottleinn.co.uk.

Summer Music Society of Dorset Sherborne Abbey, Sherborne. A talk by Terry Barfoot: "Vaughan Williams and the Vision of Albion" plus City of London Sinfonia Strings - Joyful Company of Singers. Tickets available from Dorset Music House, Sherborne. 01935 816332. www.sherborneabbey.com.

The Case of the Speckled Egg, Murder Mystery Evening The Old Barn, Clyffe Farm, Tincleton, Dorchester.

Murder mystery evening held in aid of Weldmar Hospice Trust. Tickets available from Fundraising Office and Weldmar Hospicecare Trust shops. Starts 7:30pm. 01305 215315.
Awareness - Mind - Body - Spirit Fayre at Chard Guildhall. 10am to 5.30pm (Setting up from 7am). Please phone for details. 01460 66077.

Poole Birdboats – Purbeck coast 6.30 pm. Booking essential on 01929 462383. RSPB.
The Voyage presented by Off the Wall Theatre Ensemble. By Lee Stroud. Park Community Centre, Weymouth. 7.30pm. Tickets on the door or from Lee 01305 259308 or from Words Etcetera Dorchester. Performed by actors from the Dorchester Community Play: Dave Lucas, John Ramsden, Lee Stroud and Dee Thorne together with Lindsay Maton.

Marriage Manners & Music An afternoon matinee show by Trisha Lewis, a jazz singer who is a little obsessed with the 1950's. Her show "Marriage Manners & Music" will be featured at Church House, South Street, Bridport stating at 2pm. This show combines some classic and popular songs of the era with an amusing look at extracts from manuals and magazines of the time. Relationships, parenting, health and beauty, the wonder of man...... it's all covered!! Trisha uses wonderful costume of the era - and has a few surprise costume changes here and there! Tickets available from Bridport Tourist Information Centre or telephone 01305 852117.

This is a fund raising event for NAPA, National Association for the Providers of Activities for Older People, supporting activity organisers in the care industry.

Workshop - The Power of Colour one-day workshop, 10am - 4pm at Rainbow's End. For details call 07900 824089.

Blackdown Hills AONB Summer bushcraft & forest open day. 10am - 4pm. A family day in the woods, leaning how to build shelters, light fires, make tools and search for wild food. Meet at Forestry Commission entrance of Staple Fitzpaine village. Contact Samantha Winzer on 01823 680846

Saturday 14 - Sunday 15
Netherbury Gardens Open 2pm - 6pm. Visit many outstanding gardens in this lovely Dorset village. Lunch in the village hall from 12.30pm each day. Cake & cream teas, plant stalls & ample free parking.

Litton Cheney Open Gardens More than 10 gardens open with a wide variety of sizes, styles and locations, many with lovely views of the Bride Valley and demonstrating different horticultural techniques. Gardens open from 2pm to 5.30pm. Plants sales and teas available. All proceeds to Litton and Thorner’s Community Hall. 01308 482532.

Vintage Tractor & Stationary Engine Rally
West Bay Road, Bridport.
Annual tractor and stationary engine rally - provisional information. Further details on www.wdvtsec.co.uk. 01308 425971.

Saturday 14 June - Saturday 12 July
Painting with a Needle Embroidery exhibition by Diane & Debbie Tiltman, A mother and daughter team who create original textile pictures using a range of all free hand embroidery. C W Groves & Sons (Garden Centre), West Bay Road, Bridport. 8.30am until 5.00pm daily, and 10.30am until 4.30pm on Sundays. 01308 422654.

Sunday 15
Karen Street, Andy Tweed & Andrew Barrett - L’Esprit du Jazz 8pm, Meeting House Arts Centre, Ilminster. 01460 55783. www.bigshedmusic.co.uk
Cool Classics Yeovil Chamber Choir perform choral favourites, 3pm at St John's, Yeovil. 01935 475163.

Dragonfly walk in and around Lower Bruckland Ponds, Axe Valley, with Dave Smallshire (British Dragonfly Society). Meet 10am SY260927. Axe Vale & DCS 01297 445084.

The 2008 West Country Scythe Festival and Competition (in conjunction with the South Somerset Green Fair) will be held at Thorney Lakes, Muchelney, near Langport. There will be the usual variety of scything activities, tuition, stalls, performances, music etc, culminating in the West Country Scything Championship at about 2.30pm and music in the evening. For more information, or to run a stall phone 01460 249204. For camping on site, contact Thorney Lakes. www.thorneylakes.co.uk.

Fathers Day free entry for Dads when accompanied by one or more children to Pecorama, Beer, 01297 21542.

Kingston Maurward Open Day Kingston Maurward College, Nr. Dorchester. 01305 215003. www.kmc.ac.uk.

Workshop - The Power of Colour one-day workshop, 10am - 4pm at Rainbow's End. For details call 07900 824089.

Hello Dolly auditions for Axminster Operatic Society's November production are being held at 3pm in the Churchill Rooms, Axminster Guildhal. Further information from Brian Cursley 07831 533580.

Fossil Hunting Walk
9.30am. Starting at Charmouth Heritage Coast centre. Please phone the wardens to book places on 01297 560772.

Garden Open (in aid of Cudworth Church) Blackland House, Forton. 2pm, Teas, Plants, Rowing on lake.

Blackdown Hills AONB Wild food walk - part 1. New culinary adventure with naturalist David Allen. Low tide walk on the mud flats of the Axe Estuary in search of wild food. Numbers limited. Meet 10am in lay-by near Axmouth bridge. Contact AONB office 01823 680681.

Monday 16
Meat Curing with Rita Ash.10am - 3.30pm. The Magdalen Project, Magdalen Farm, Winsham, 01460 30144.
www.themagdalenproject.org.uk.

Hurdle Making with Mickey Price (Great British Hurdles). Learn traditional methods and make a willow hurdle for your garden with a green renewable resource. 9am to 4.30pm. Ring Anne on 01460 30144 ext 21 or anne@themagdalenproject.org.uk, Magdalen Farm, Winsham, Nr Chard.

Wessex Green Ball family friendly ball headlined by Seize The Day supported by the Latin-Funk sounds of Orpheous and Cajun magic of Flakey Jake. Also Jason Maverick Street Performer. Accompanied children 7+. Dress code ‘Best Recycled’. Bridoprt Arts Centre. www.bridport-tic.org.uk/wessexgreenball.

Tuesday 17
Mosterton Horticultural Society Car outing to local gardens. 01308 868798.
Antiques Fair 9am-4pm Marine Theatre, Lyme Regis.. 01297 442138. www.marinetheatre.com.

National Bike Week - Guided Mountain Bike Ride for families
6.30 - 7.30pm. White Cross Picnic Site, near Honiton. Also with the Sid Valley Cycling Club exploring the East Hill strips and Fire Beacon Hill LNR. Booking essential for safety - 01404
46663.

Antiques Fair 9am -4pm Marine Theatre, Lyme Regis. 01297 442138.
Outstanding Canadian Singer Songwriter. Stephen Fearing The Green Room, Weymouth Pavilion, 8pm. Tickets only in advance from 01305 778689.

Wednesday 18
Stone Walling with Jonno Farey. Learn the skill of repairing and building traditional stonewalls, using a variety of different styles, techniques and mortars. 10am - 3.30pm. The Magdalen Project, Magdalen Farm, Winsham, 01460 30144.
www.themagdalenproject.org.uk.

East Devon Ramblers Walk On the eastern edge of Dartmoor. From Steps Bridge CP (SX802883). 9 miles. Starts 10.30 am. Bring a picnic. Please confirm details with organiser on 01395 597523.

Heathland amble at Arne 10.30 am-12.30 pm & 2 pm-4 pm. 01929 553360. Meet at RSPB Arne nature reserve car park, near Wareham.

Nightjars on the heath at Arne 8pm till late. Booking essential on 01929 553360. Meet at RSPB Arne nature reserve car park, near Wareham.

Thorncombe Rail Activities Club ‘North & West Devon’ by Peter Gray. 7.30pm, Thorncombe Village Hall (near Chard) All welcome. Contact Michael Sheasby 01460 30474.

The National Trust Blackmore Vale and Yeovil Local Centre
Visit to The River Dart and South Devon Railway.

Jurassic Folk & Acoustic Night at the Grove, Seaton, at 8pm. Singers, musicians and everyone very welcome. More info
01297 20064 or www.eastdevonfolk.org.

Cheesemaking with Rita Ash Learn how to make soft and hard cheese on a small scale from this practical demonstration. 10am to 3.30pm. Ring Anne on 01460 30144 ext 21 or anne@themagdalenproject.org.uk, Magdalen Farm, Winsham, Nr Chard.

Theatre Friends Quiz Night 7.30 for 8pm. Teams of up to 6 players. Marine Theatre Lyme Regis. 01297 442138.

Wednesday 18- Friday 20
Compost Toilet Making course - learn how to make eco-friendly toilets that don't need plumbing! Monkton Wyld Court near Lyme Regis. www.monktonwyldcourt.org. 01297 560342.

Thursday 19
Beginners Bread Making with Tracey Smith, BBC broadcaster & Downshifting expert
Tracey will take the fear out of bread making and teach you all you need to know about basic bread making plus a more exotic recipe. 10am - 3.30pm. The Magdalen Project, Magdalen Farm, Winsham, 01460 30144.
www.themagdalenproject.org.uk.

Coffee Morning in aid of Axminster Operatic Society's forthcoming production of Hello Dolly in the Church Rooms, Axminster from 9 am onwards.

Special film screening by Cranbrook Films 'Fields of Eden - a year in the life of Longhorn Jim' which will be preceeded by a short introduction to the film by director Clive Whaley. Q&A with Jim Armstrong & Clive Whaley after the film.
7.30pm start. Electric Palace, South St, Bridport.

Summertime on the moor at Lodmoor 9am-11 am. 01305 778313. Meet at the main RSPB reserve entrance off the A353 Preston Beach Road, Weymouth.

Chard Camera Club Competition Evening Special Subject "Hats" in Slide and Print Format &
Open Competitions also in Slide and Print Format.
01460 66885.

Beaminster One World Fellowship The Faiths of Rudyard Kipling. Speaker Dr Colin Smith. 7.30pm, The Strode Room, Church Street, Beaminster. Further information from Peter Glanville. 01308 458283.

Eckhart Tolle Study Group meets Axminster Awareness Centre, 7pm - 9.30pm. Please ring 01297 23607.

Music at the Minster: 24th season Lunchtime Concer Axminster Young Musicians. Children of Saint Mary's Catholic School take us through their year in music. Director: Angela Drake. 12.30-1pm in The Minster followed by lunch @fivepastone.

Horse Owners First Aid Kits and Courses given by Roger Scammell of Milton Equine Veterinary Clinics. All proceeds to Animal Health Trust Strangles Appeal. He has also put together a low-cost First Aid Kit. 6pm at Milton Equine Bridport Clinic, Matravers Stables, Uploders, Bridport, Dorset. 01308 814433.

Alex Martin will introduce poets Kit Wright, Neil Rollinson and Simon Rae to read their poems, launching the book, Cricket at Little Bredy illustrated by David Inshaw as part of an exhibition at Sladers Yard, West Bay. 1st floor: Henrietta Hoyer Millar and Marie-Claire Hamon new paintings. Sladers Yard, West Bay, Bridport, Dorset DT6 4EL 01308 459511. www.sladersyard.co.uk.

Beaminster One World Fellowship Guantanamo Bay and the Secret Prisons, speaker Clive Stafford Smith, Director of the charity Reprieve, human rights lawyer representing prisoners on Death Row and in Guantanamo Bay. 7.30pm Strode Room, Church St, Beaminster. Enquiries Peter Glanville 01308 458283.

Waterlands RSPB wildlife film, capturing some of the UK’s most awe-inspiring wildlife spectacles. 7.30pm. The Henhayes Centre, South Street car park Crewkerne. 01460 240740.

Bridport and District Gardening Club 7.30pm WI Hall, North Street, Bridport. ‘Beatrice - A Kingston Lacy Housemaid’ by David Smith.
Ensemble na Mara Piano Quartet
Tom Hankey violin;
Jessica Beeston viola;
Eilidh Martin cello;
Alastair Beatson piano.
Programme to include:
Beethoven Piano Trio in G, op 1 no 2. Faure Piano Quartet in C minor. 7.30pm, Marine Theatre, Lyme Regis. www.cocertsinthewest.org www.londonhandelfestival.org,
Local Support Group for the Federation of Holistic Therapists St John's Ambulance Hall, Rax Lane, Bridport 7pm-9pm. 01297 561113. open to non-members.

Friday 20
Ensemble na Mara Piano Quartet 8pm Meeting House Arts Centre, Ilminster. www.concertsinthewest.org. www.londonhandelfestival.org.

Chris Difford concert
8pm. Electric Palace, South St, Bridport.
Hilfield Butterfly & Moth Festival Hilfield Friary 2 miles west of Minterne Magna. From 8pm - Barbecue and moth trapping. Overnight camping available. Saturday 9am - Analysis of moths caught overnight, followed by butterfly walks over Batcombe and Hendice Coppice. Also Friary Summer Fete.Contact Nigel Spring on 01963 23559/ 07981 776767. 01963 23559. www.dorsetbutterflies.com.

Horseplay an interactive performance that takes place inside a horse’s stable full of wonderful discoveries, a lifelike horse, a live performer, miniature landscapes and toy horses hidden in the hay. Bridport based Niki McCretton has been working with Watercleaves Nurserry to create a new preschool show at Bridport Arts Centre. Very limited places, please book with Gjenya Cambray 01308 427183.

East Devon Ramblers Walk Leisurely Friday morning walk. From Haldon Forest Visitors Ctr. (SX884849). 5 miles. Starts 10am. Please confirm details with organiser on 01395 578722.

Fri 20 - Sun 22
Whitchurch Canonicorum
Flower festival with lunches and teas, in the church. Songs of praise on Sun 22nd at 6.30pm.
Dance Body and Soul - 5 Rhythms weekend workshop with Bernadette Ryder. Monkton Wyld Court near Lyme Regis. www.monktonwyldcourt.org. 01297 560342.

Saturday 21
Pebble Investigation! What do you know about our pebbles? How many different types are there? Where did they come from? 2pm. Chesil Beach Centre, Portland Beach Road, Portland. 01305 760579. www.chesilbeach.org.

Chard Guildhall Craft & Food Fair new montly market starting 9am – 2pm. Come along and discover a place to find traditional, classic and modern produce, Craft & Food from local producers. If you are interested in having a stall at the Fair please call 01460
65282.

Dance Ballroom, Latin & some Sequence Uplyme Village Hall
8pm - 11pm. In aid of Hall funds.

South Somerset Peace Group Peace Vigil South Petherton Blake Hall 11-12 noon.
Sherborne Monthly Book Fair Church Hall, Digby Road, Sherborne.

New, second-hand and antiquarian books for sale, also magazines, prints, postcards and ephemera. Open 9.30am - 4pm. 01803 613356.

David Ogden directs the City of Bristol Concert Choir in aid of the organ appeal. Sacred and popular choral works to include a newly commissioned piece for St. Michael's by David Ogden. A superb evening with one of the finest choral directors and concert choirs in the UK. Tickets from Lyme Regis TIC. 01297 442138. 7.30pm. www.lymeregisorganappeal.com.

Franciscan Midsummer Fair Hilfield Friary, Dorchester. Local stalls, Produce, Entertainment, Activities and Fun. Starts at 11am. 01300 341345. www.hilfieldproject.co.uk.

Fossil Hunting Walk
11.30am. Starting at Charmouth Heritage Coast centre. Please phone the wardens to book places on 01297 560772.

Franciscan Midsummer Fair at Hilfield Friary
a day of local stalls, environmental displays and entertainment, from 11am – 4pm, www.hilfieldproject.co.uk. 01300 341741.

Abbotsbury Heritage Fayre brings Midsummer merriment to The Tithe Barn, Abbotsbury from 6.30pm The New Hardy Players will perform a never seen before Hardy play, Tim Lacock, folk singer will entertain and there will be music from Crack all rounded off with a surprise finale. Tickets available from the co-ordinator on 01305 871085. Dress warmly.

Pixie Day in Ottery St Mary from 2pm onwards. On the Land of Canaan, Family Fun Fete, Pixie's Revenge in the Square at 6.15pm, Evening entertainment on the Land of Canaan
followed by a firework display. Contact Ottery St Mary TIC.

Chard Guildhall Craft & Food Fair new monthy market 9am – 2pm traditional, classic and modern produce Craft & Food from local producers. Interested in a stall? 01460 65282.

The Somerset Guild of Weavers, Spinners & Dyers’ annual Fleece Fair Hatch Beauchamp Village Hall near Taunton from 10.30am – 3.30pm, fleece sale, spinning & weaving demon Jim Doust 01278 683748 or E-mail jimredoust@connectfree.co.uk. www.somersetguildwsd.org.uk.

Sat 21 - Sunday 22
Axe Valley Festival of Gardening and Crafts Axminster Showground, Hinton St George 8 Gardens open. 2.30-5pm.Teas avaiable from 3-5pm. All within easy walking distance.
Maiden Newton at War 1940’s Weekend, Greenford School, Maiden Newton. Tickets 07814 451518. www.maidennewtonatwar.co.uk.

Sat 21 - 6 July
Beaminster Festival of Music and the Visual Arts. 01308 862943. www.beamfest.org.uk.

Sunday 22
Fossil Hunting Walk
12 noon.Charmouth Heritage Coast centre. 01297 560772.

Teddy Bears' Picnic Borough Gardens, Dorchester. 01305 266861.
Mozarts Day Kingston Maurward College, Dorchester. 01305 215050. www.kmc.ac.uk/gardens.

Chideock Memorial Chapel North Road open during Chidoeck Village Open Gardens 3pm - 4pm. A rare opportunity to see the wall paintings of this unusual building. Church and Village History Exhibition in Museum also open see www.chideockmartyrschurch.org.uk.
Yeovil Railway Centre, Yeovil Junction, Stoford: Model Railway Swap Meet, !0am - 3pm. 01376 510663 for full details.

Monday 23
Advanced Bread Making with Aidan Chapman 10 am - 4pm. 01460 30144 or anne@themagdalenproject.org.uk, Magdalen Farm, Winsham, Nr Chard.
Balmoral Cruise from West Bay, Bridport

Jurassic Pier, West Bay, Bridport to Bournemouth, then on to Yarmouth on the Isle of Wight. Departs West Bay at 10am. Return to West Bay around 8.15pm. Tickets from Bridport and Lyme Regis TICs. 01308 424901. www.waverleyexcursions.co.uk.

Tuesday 24
South Somerset Peace Group public meeting "Arms and Saudi Arabia -Challenging BAE Systems in the Courts"
Speaker Sarah Sexton and/or Nicholas Hildyard of The Corner House. Minster Rooms, Ilminster 7.30 pm. All welcome. The Palestine/Israel group
will meet at 6.30pm.

Antiques Fair 9am-4pm Marine Theatre, Lyme Regis. 01297 442138. www.marinetheatre.com

Historic Buildings of Hurst a walk and talk through Hurst at 7 pm. A guided walk led by Fergus Dowding looking at many of the historic buildings, discussing their age, construction, development and place in the town's history. Meet at Hurst Bow. We should end up either looking at the outside or inside of the Rose and Crown. About 1½ hours. Organised by the Martock Local History Group.

Coffee Morning and Open Garden 10.30am-12 noon, Manor Orchard, Stratton, Dorchester. In aid of the Salisbury Sudan Medical Link.

Clear Round Jumping
Any height you like, go as many times as you like! Please book in 6pm-8ish. Open Class. Outdoor School, Higher Park Farm, Broadwindsor. Contact Linda on 01308 867684. lindapaget@btinternet.com.

To the Plateau at the Axmouth to Lyme Regis Undercliffs NNR 11am - 2pm. Stout footwear essential. Bring a picnic. An EDDC/Natural England event. Booking essential 01395 517557.

Wednesday 25
Sherborne Science Cafe
Monthly café, starts 7.30pm. Wessex Water: Treatment and Sewage,
Sherborne House, Newland, Sherborne.
01935 815052. www.sherbornesciencecafe.co.uk.

Heathland amble at Arne 10.30 am-12.30 pm & 2 pm-4 pm. 01929 553360. Meet at Arne RSPB Arne nature reserve car park, near Wareham.

Nightjars on the heath at Arne 8 pm till late.
Booking essential on 01929 553360. Meet at RSPB Arne nature reserve car park, near Wareham.

Thursday 26
Sunray Folk Club Bram Taylor 8.15pm, at Broadmayne Village Hall. Contact Bob Kirkpartrick. 07786 654 074.

The Duke Spirit 8pm. Electric Palace, South St, Bridport.
Eckhart Tolle Study Group meets Axminster Awareness Centre, 7pm - 9.30pm. 01297 23607.

Music at the Minster: 24th season Lunchtime Concert Young Local Musician: Keir Lewis, Safier Lewis, Jacob Clode and others. Directed by Nicholas Brown. 12.30-1pm in The Minster followed by lunch @fivepastone.

Thursday 26 - Friday 27
Introduction to Precious Metal Clay - focal beads and elements Tutor: Sara Dutton. The Old Kennels, Stentwood, Dunkeswell. 01823 681138.

Carving a wooden bowl 2 day course with Guy Malinson at his new woodland workshop at Higher Holditch Farm, nr Thorncombe. 01460 221102 or www.mallinson.co.uk.

Thursday 26 - Sunday 29
Cerne Abbas Music Festival The Gaudier Ensemble at St Mary's Church, Cerne Abbas concert: works by Debussy and other French composers alongside pastoral works by Holbrooke, Bax and Vaughan-Williams.
www.gaudier.co.uk. Festival Office 01300 341518.

Friday 27
Robert Ince popular comedian. 9pm, Dorchester Arts Centre, School Lane, The Grove, Dorchester. 01305 266926.

Outdoor Concert with Judy Shire & Her Band
Sherborne Castle, New Road, Sherborne. Blues. Latin and Jazz singer. Starts 8pm. 01935 813182 www.judyshire.co.uk.

The Blackmore Ensemble Anna Hamilton (‘cello) Angus Meryon (clarinet), Duncan Honeybourne (piano). 12.30pm, Lunchtime Recital at St Swithins, Bridport. Light lunch to follow recital.

Karine Polwart 8pm at the David Hall. Tickets from www.thedavidhall.org.uk. 01460 240340.

Discover the batty world of Radipole Lake 8.30pm-10.30pm. Booking essential on 01305 778313. Meet at RSPB Radipole Lake visitor centre, Swannery car park, Weymouth.

Noah Babels’ Ark present by the Rude Mechanical Theatre Company. A re-working of the Noah’s Ark legend. The Abbey House, Abbotsbury. Gardens open 6pm for picnics. Theatre 7.45pm. Tickets from Abbey House or St John Ambulance 01305 751167.

East Devon Ramblers Walk Leisurely Friday morning walk. From Branscombe Village Hall. 4.5 miles. Starts 10am. Confirm details with organiser 01297 23045.

Bridport Big Band Concert Ploughman's Supper at 7pm with a Bar. Tickets from Liz Nelson 01308 427080. Manor Farm, Higher Eype, Bridport, Dorset DT6 6AT. In aid of the Motor Neurone Disease Association West Dorset Branch.

Thai Wok Cooking Course At Marsh Barn, Burton Rd. Bridport. 1pm - 4pm. 01460 76391. www.thaicooking4you.co.uk.

Friday 27 – Sun 29
On Our Doorstep An exhibition of art in various media by the Lyme Regis Wednesday Group at St Andrew’s Church in Monkton Wyld. 2 – 7 pm. jancalow@hotmail.co.uk.

Introduction to beekeeping course with Dave Wiscombe at Monkton Wyld Court near Lyme Regis. www.monktonwyldcourt.org. 01297 560342.

Bridport Food & Beer Festival Asker Meadows Bridport. Contact Bridport Food Group: Elizabeth Field 01308 427683.

Community Flower Festival St Mary's Church South Street Bridport. Coordinated by Churches Together in Bridport & District. On Sat 28th June, a Dorset Evening of Song & verse amongst the flowers.

Saturday 28
Jazz Concert byThe Roger Marks' Armada Jazz Band Cream Tea at 3pm with a Bar. Tickets from Liz Nelson:01308 427080. Manor Farm, Higher Eype, Bridport, Dorset DT6 6AT. In aid of the Motor Neurone Disease Association West Dorset Branch.

Charlton Down Village Market, Herrison Hall. 9.30am - 12 noon locally produced meat, eggs, vegetables as well as plants, home made pies, quiche and jams. Selection of local crafts to include jewellery, hand painted glass & cards. Contact 01305 250872 or email Jane.rooks@btopenworld.com.

Sherborne Saturday Antiques & Flea Market
Church Hall, Digby Road, Sherborne. Open 9am - 4pm, 01963 250108.

5th Mary Anning Day with questions asked by Tracey Chevalier on Mary Anning. Childrens projects; Lyme Regis Museum open all day. Exhibition of photgraphs taken by Muriel Arber from the 1930s to show ‘Lyme’s Lively Landscape’ - the landslips east and west of Lyme.
Jewellery-Wire and Bead Scribble Workshop at Highway Farm, West Road, Bridport. Tutor - Fran Griffith. 10am - 4pm. 01308 424321.

Chiselborough Village Fair, flower festival 2.30pm, grand raffle and lots of stalls, also come and meet the Minterne Alpacas.

The Dorset Art and Craft Show The Corn Exchange, High East, Street, Dorchester. Demonstrations. 07730 557090. www.dorsetartandcraftshow.co.uk

Saturday 28 - Sunday 29
Narrative Bodies Sculpture, Prints and Drawings by local artists Louisa Currier, Jane Osmond and Ali Pawson. Salem Chapel, Vicarage Road, East Budleigh..

Sunday 29
3rd Annual Five Pubs Challenge under Eggardon Hill. Walkers, horse riders, and cyclists challenged to visit five pubs 11am-4pm in aid of local charities: The Crown Uploders, The Loders Arms Loders, The Marquis of Lorne Nettlecombe, The Spyway Askerswell, and Three Horseshoes Powerstock. Start and finish at any. About 6 miles. David Jones 01308 425419.

The first Lyme Regis Cornish Pilot Gig 'Rebel' launchet 1pm at the Cobb, Lyme Regis. Built over the last nine months by award winning boat builder Gail McGarva. Contact Marcus Dixon 01297 445021.

Record and CD Fair 9am-4pm Marine Theatre, Lyme Regis. 01297 442138. www.marinetheatre.com

Great West Classic Cars Rally in association with the Devon Region Jaguar Enthusiasts Club. Pecorama, Beer, 01297 21542.

Flower Festival Chiselborough Village Hall. In aid of Church Hall funds.
Organ Concert by Byron Jones, The Welsh Wizard with Cream Tea at 3pm. Tickets from Liz Nelson 01308 427080. Manor Farm, Higher Eype, Bridport, Dorset DT6 6AT. In aid of the Motor Neurone Disease Association West Dorset Branch.

Performance/Acoustic Night monthly local night, David Hall Art Centre, South Petherton. All styles of performance welcome. Music, story poetry etc. Call 01460 240340. www.thedavidhall.org.uk.

Blackdown Hills AONB Carnivorous plants on Hense Moor. Guided walk with ecologist David Allen in the best bog in the Blackdowns. Rough and wet terrain. 10am, Luppitt Village Hall. Contact AONB office 01823 680681.

Fun Jumping competition. 10am. class 11ft6 lead rein and non lead rein; class 2 2ft; class 3 2ft 3; class 4 2ft 6; Class 5 2ft 9. Outdoor School, Higher Park Farm, Broadwindsor. Linda 01308 867684. lindapaget@btinternet.com.

Gartell Light Railway Open Day Common Lane Yenston, Templecombe. Narrow gauge steam on the old Somerset & Dorset Railway. 10.30am - 4.30pm, 01963 370752. www.glr-online.co.uk

Victorian Street Fayre - Sutton Poyntz. 11am - 5pm. 01305 257258 (day) 01305 833343 (eve) www.sutton-poyntz.co.uk.

Dorchester Choral Society with Andreaskirche Kantorei from Lubbecke 7.30 p.m. St. Mary's Church, Dorchester. Rutter: Magnificat; Mozart: Excultate Jubilate; Stanford: 3 Motets; Parry: Blest Pair of Sirens; Handel: Zadok the Priest. Tickets from Harmony Music or on the door.

Monday 30
Seven mile butterfly and wildlife walk, bring a picnic. Meet Castle Neroche. 10.30am-3pm. Axe Vale & DCS Pamela Miller 01297 24004.

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