Coast and Countryside Events - Marshwood Vale Magazine

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Your truly comprehensive list of local events

Monday, 31 March

Scottish Dancing in Chardstock An evening of Scottish dancing in Chardstock Village Hall EX13 7BH 7.30-10.00p.m. Tea and coffee provided but please bring your own mug and wear soft soled shoes. No partner required. Cost £2.00 Contact David on 01460 65981 www.chardscottishdancingclub.co.uk.

If you like music, gentle exercise and socialising, do come along to our dance sessions in the W.I. Hall, North Street on Monday evenings from 7.15pm-9.30pm. No experience or partner required. Occasional live music and always a Caller to guide the dances. Only £3. Tea and biscuits. Tel: 863552 or text 07456730753 for more information.

Monday, 31 March

If you like music, gentle exercise and socialising, come to our dance sessions in the W.I. Hall, North Street, Bridport on Monday evenings from 7.15pm-9.30pm. Tel: 863552 or text 07456730753 for more information.

Tuesday, 1 April

Scottish Country Dancing at Horton Village Hall TA19 9QR every Tuesday evening from 7.30 to 9.30 pm with tea break. Everyone welcome including beginners , so why not come along and give it a whirl. Please wear soft, flat comfy shoes. £3.00 pay on the door. We look forward to seeing you. Further info from Anita at anitaandjim22@gmail.com or visit our web site at www.ashillscd.wordpress.com.

My Ballet offers you holistic ballet classes with movement to support and improve your posture, balance, coordination, strength,and fitness to beautiful music. First timers to Experienced dancers. Ages 16 to 88 plus welcome. Seaton United reformed Church hall Cross street, EX12 2LH. Email myballetuk@gmail.com or text 07866896978. Meet new friends and stay for a cuppa.

Wednesday, 2 April

Meeting Voices Community Choir, Chard. 19.30 to 21.15. Sing for fun. Learn songs in harmony by ear. Everyone welcome. Chard Guildhall. Fore St, Chard TA20 1PP. Phone 07534 116502 or email mvsecretary@outlook.com.

Thursday, 3 April

Folk dancing at Combe St Nicholas village hall (TA20 3LT) at 1930 hrs. Simon Maplesden will be calling and Ian Bryden are providing the 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.

Screening : NT Live: Dr Strangelove (15) 150 mins. 7pm. Bridport Electric Palace, 35 South Street, DT6 3NY. Tickets £17 Book online electricpalace.org.uk.

Hello Bookstore (2022, USA, PG, 86 mins, Director: A.B. Zax). In the shadow of the pandemic, a small town rallies to protect a beloved local bookstore. A landmark in Lenox, Massachusetts, The Bookstore is a magical, beatnik gem thanks to its owner, Matt Tannenbaum, whose passion for stories runs deep. This intimate portrait of The Bookstore and the family at its heart offers a journey through good times, hard times, and the stories hidden on the shelves. Doors 7:00 pm, 7:30 pm start. Clapton & Wayford Village Hall (TA18 8PS). Membership £25, guests £5 per film. For more details, contact mickpwilson53@btinternet.com or ring Mick Wilson on 01460 74849 or Kathy Everard on 01460 30646.

Friends of Lyme Regis Museum. Lyme Regis Museum Friends offer an illustrated talk, ‘From Plymouth Aquarium to Lyme Regis Museum’ by Kieran Satchell at 2.30 pm in the Woodmead Hall, Hill Road, Lyme Regis DT7 3PG. Kieran is the Museum’s Education Officer. This Talk follows the AGM at 2.00pm. Entrance £3 members and £4 visitors. Enquiries to David Cox, 01297 443156.

Lyme Voices Community Choir. 19.30 to 21.15. Sing for fun. Learn songs in harmony by ear. Everyone welcome. Baptist Church (Pine Hall round the back), Silver St., Lyme Regis, DT7 3NY. Phone 07534 116502 or email petelinnett2@hotmail.com.

Solo Charleston and Vintage Jazz Dance Classes – 1-2pm, St Marys Church Hall Bridport – Class for all levels and abilities – £6 – All Welcome www.dynamic-dance.uk. Also Thursday 10th & 24th April.

Friday, 4 April

Unforgettable – Tribute to Nat King Cole Unforgettable Is stunning Vocalist/Guitarist Denny Illett and Award Winning Craig Milverton’s latest project paying tribute to the supreme and legendary Vocalist and brilliant Pianist ‘Nat King Cole’. Tickets: £20. 7.30pm at Ilminster Arts Centre, TA19 0AN. 01460 54973 www.ilminsterartscentre.com.

Walk with West Dorset Ramblers. 8 miles. In Search of Eagles – circular walk from Lower Kingcombe . An easy walk . Start 10am from DWT Kingcombe c.p.(SY554 990). Bring picnic. Dogs at the discretion of the walk leader. To book and for details contact 07587 098079.

Saturday, 5 April

Axminster and District Choral Society begin their 40th anniversary year with a performance of Haydn’s Creation. 7.30 pm at the Minster Church Axminster. Axminster and District Choral Society celebrates forty years of the joy of singing. In February 1985 an enthusiastic group organised a Come and Sing Messiah in the recently reordered Minster Church. The event was a great success, and shortly afterwards Axminster and District Choral Society (ADCS) was established. Over the years both the number and range of concerts have expanded, and the pattern is now two major concerts a year, with professional orchestra and soloists, and less formal concerts in the summer and at Christmas. Our anniversary programme starts on April 5 th with Haydn’s Creation, a work that has been performed in every decade of the choir’s existence. The summer and autumn concerts focus on works by British composers, including Sir John Rutter and Bob Chilcott. A feature of the autumn concert will be a work composed for the occasion by our President, Andrew Millington. Finally the Christmas concert will reprise the inaugural Come and Sing Messiah. One aim for the anniversary year is to attract more members so that we return to our pre-Covid numbers. A second is to publicise our activities more widely. But most of all we aim to maintain our tradition of offering quality performances of wonderful music to audiences in and around Axminster. For more information please visit our website www.axminsterchoral.co.uk. Tickets £16/£14 from axminsterchoral.co.uk or 01404 43805.

Bridport Rotary Club invites you to an evening of musical entertainment from the Dorset Police and Taunton Deane Male Voice Choirs at the United Chuch, Bridport at 7.00 for 7.30. Tickets at £12.50 each are available from the Bridport Tourist Information Centre at the rear of Bridport Town Hall or on line. Also from Club members and at the door on the night. Profits are in aid of the RNLI and other Rotary supported charities and needy causes.

The Friends of Weymouth Library (F.O.W.L.) talk at 10-30a.m. will be by author Justin Newland, on how England’s fledgling navy repulsed the greatest fleet on earth, the Spanish Armada. What coincidences conjoined in England’s favour that fateful day in 1588, which would seal England’s victory? Tickets available at the Library (phone 01305762410) @ £2 for members and £3 for non-members. Any other enquiries phone 01305832613 or 01305750557. Refreshments provided.

Bridport & West Dorset Rambling Club 8 mile walk from Stockland. For further information please ring 01308 898484 or 01308 863340. New members/visitors welcome.

All Aboard the Mary Rose – a free concert with refreshments available. Henry VIII’s favourite ship – the Mary Rose – sank 480 years ago this year. His reign and the life of the Mary Rose coincide almost exactly. Discover more and hear music of the time played in costume by Courtlye Musick on instruments including the types found on board this remarkable ship. Donations invited to support Dorset Rural Music School and (Broadwey) St Nicholas & St Lawrence Primary School. 3pm at Buckland Newton Village Hall DT2 7BZ.

The Nashville Sounds Experience 8pm Bridport Electric Palace, 35 South Street, DT6 3NY. Tickets £22 Book online electricpalace.org.uk

Cantamus presents ‘Exsultate!’, a concert of beautiful choral music for spring. St Mary’s Church, Cerne Abbas at 7pm. Tickets £12 on the door (cash or card). Refreshments available.

Beaminster Museum opens for the summer season with two fascinating exhibitions. ‘One and Two Halves to Beaminster’ turns the spotlight on the history public transport in the area, from horse-drawn carriages and early petrol-powered vehicles, to canals that never materialised and railways that never reached their destination. ‘When the Romans Came to West Dorset’ weaves together three intriguing stories: the Roman invasion from a West Dorset viewpoint, the history of Waddon Hill Roman Fort between Broadwindsor and Beaminster, and the role of digital technology in uniting artefacts from across the country. The Museum is open Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays and Bank Holidays, 10.30am – 4pm, Sundays 2pm – 4.30pm. Admission is free, but donations are very welcome. Whitcombe Rd, Beaminster DT8 3NB. www.beaminstermuseum.co.uk

Saturday, 5 – 6 April

NGS Garden Open for charity Chideock Manor Returning after a break. 12 acres of formal and informal gardens. Bog garden beside stream and series of ponds. Yew hedges and mature trees. Lime and crab apple walks, herbaceous borders, colourful rose and clematis arches, fernery and nuttery. Walled vegetable garden and orchard. Woodland and lakeside walks. Fine views and much variety. This has opened for many years and is one of our most popular gardens. Unusually adjoining the Manor House is a catholic church, with a domed basilica, it is exquisite and like nothing else you will see in Dorset. It is often open on our garden open days and well worth a visit! Location: 2m W of Bridport on A35. In centre of village turn N at church. The Manor is ¼m along this road on R. Partial wheelchair access Open 2-5 pm. Adm: £10, child free. Dogs on short leads welcome. Home-made teas.

Sunday, 6 April

Afternoon Teas, including scones, sandwiches, cakes etc. 3pm – 5pm. Also short film – ‘History of Clapton Mill’, showing at 3.30pm & 4.15pm. £6; All welcome. Clapton & Wayford Village Hall. More details from Julia (01460 72769) or Mary (01460 74849); book in advance, or pay on the door.

Opera screening : RB&O – Turnadot (205 mins) 2pm. Bridport Electric Palace, 35 South Street , DT6 3NY. Tickets £17 Book online electricpalace.org.uk

Monday, 7 April

Scottish Dancing in Chardstock. An evening of Scottish dancing in Chardstock Village Hall EX13 7BH 7.30-10.00 p.m. Tea and coffee provided but please bring your own mug and wear soft soled shoes. No partner required. Cost £2.00 Contact David on 01460 65981. www.chardscottishcountrydance.co.uk.

Bridport Folk Dance Group. If you like music, gentle exercise and socialising, do come along to our dance sessions in the W.I. Hall, North Street on Monday evenings from 7.15pm-9.30pm. No experience or partner required. Occasional live music and always a Caller to guide the dances. Only £3. Tea and biscuits. Tel: 863552 or text 07456730753 for more information.

Hawkchurch Film Nights, in association with Moviola.org, proudly presents ‘Gladiator II’, 148 mins, cert.15 (strong violence, injury detail). 24 years on, director Ridley Scott follows up his iconic original film with this epic sequel. Lucius, a prisoner of war turned gladiator (Paul Mescal) becomes embroiled in the corruption and scheming at the heart of the Roman Empire (personified by Denzel Washington’s Macrinus). Spectacular doesn’t begin to cover it. Doors open 6.30pm, film starts 7.00pm at Hawkchurch Village Hall, EX13 5XD. Ticket reservations £6.50 from csma95@gmail.com or leave a message on 07753 603219 (socially-distanced seating available if reserved in advance); tickets also available in advance for £6.50 from Hawkchurch Community Shop or £7.00 on the door (cash only). Subtitles for hearing-impaired patrons provided if available. Home-made cake, teas, coffees, soft drinks, wine and other refreshments available.

Winsham Art Club, 2pm at Jubilee Hall TA20 4HU. The theme this practical session is Abstract Landscapes. It is a 2.5 hr. session led by a visiting tutor. Small friendly group of mixed abilities. Members £5, non-members £7. Annual membership £15. All welcome. Contact: Email : suzyna48@gmail.com for further details.

Modern Jive (Leroc) Social Dance Classes. 7:30pm, Chideock Village Hall. £7 per person, Come with or without a partner. Beginners and Returners Welcome Every Week. www.dynamic-dance.uk. Also Monday 14th & 28th April.

Tuesday, 8 April

Singing Bowl Soundbath 9-10.30 PM Digby Memorial Hall, Sherborne DT9 3LN Deep-tissue sonic massage and detox for body mind and spirit.£17 Please book in advance 01935 389655 ahiahel@live.com.

Dance Connection – movement to eclectic music that is guaranteed to make you feel better – no set steps – come alone or with a friend or partner, 7-8:30pm (doors open 6:50pm), Uplyme Village Hall, DT7 3UY 07787752201, danceconnectionwessex@gmail.com, www.joysofdance.co.uk.

Walk with West Dorset Ramblers. 9 miles. Specket Lane & Coles Cross – a circular walk on the Jubilee Trail. Start 10am at Four Ashes ST440003. Bring a picnic. Dogs at the discretion of the walk leader. To book and for details contact Ian 07826150114.

Wednesday, 9 April

Dalwood Upholstery Group. Social Amateur Upholstery Group for anyone wanting to complete a personal project. We have an upholsterer on hand who can guide you through each stage in your project. 9.30-3.30 Dalwood Village Hall. Contact Laura or leave a message for further details on 07789514269. Also April 23rd, May 14th and 28th and June 11th.

The New Arts Group, The Shakers: Their Beliefs, Architecture and Artefacts Speaker: John Ericson. Cost: £10.00 Time: 2.00pm (tea/coffee from 1.30pm) Bridport Town Hall.

A Complete Unknown (15) 140 mins film 7:30pm. Bridport Electric Palace, 35 South Street, DT6 3NY. Tickets £8.50 Book online electricpalace.org.uk

Kilmington Film Night “CONCLAVE (PG)” With 4 BAFTA and an OSCAR you do not want to miss this outstanding and informative film that transforms a seemingly austere subject into a gripping political thriller with emotional depth and masterful storytelling. Conclave unfolds within the Vatican walls, following the death of the Pope. Doors and bar open 6.45 film start 7.15 at Kilmington Village Hall EX13 7RF. Tickets @ £6, or £6.50 on the door, can be ordered by contacting: John at wattsjohn307@gmail.com or Tel: 01297 521681.

‘Funky Boots’ Modern Line Dance Class – Monthly Class – 8:15-9:20pm – The Red Lion Pub, Beaminster – £6 per person www.dynamic-dance.uk

Thursday, 10 April

Colyton town history walk leaving from Colyton Dolphin Car Park at 2 pm – Guided walk approximately one hour. Cost £5, children under 16 free. No booking required, all weathers. Group bookings by arrangement – Contact 01297 552514 or 01297 33406.

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

Seaton Garden Club A Talk by Ken Basterfield of BlackBerry Honey Farm. “The Making of Honey”. Time 2. 30 p.m. Venue The Masonic Hall Seaton.Members free, Visitors £2.00 including refreshments.

Kilmington Film Matinee CONCLAVE (PG) (See 9th April). Matinee, doors open 1.45pm film starts 2pm, cream-teas served during the interval but must be pre-booked with your seats @ £3.50. see above and www.kilmingtonvillage.com/other-organisations.html for more information.

Seaton Music presents Quartz Saxophone Quartet 7.30pm in the United Reformed Church, Cross St, Seaton. EX12 2LH. Tickets at door. Students and under 19s free.

Chard History Group ‘Say Cheese’ by Alan Stone. The Heritage of Somerset Cheese. Local author Alan will enlighten us on the History of this delicious staple. Samples will be provided 7pm for 7.30pm Chard Guildhall Members £2.50 Guests very welcome £3.50. For further details please contact Tessa 07984 481634.

First Blood (1982) 7.30pm. From Page to Screen Bridport Film Festival. Fringe Event. Bridport Arts Centre, South St, Bridport DT6 3NR. For full details visit: www.bridport-arts.com/fpts.

Friday, 11 April

Fun Quiz Night 6.30pm starts at 7.00pm. Teams of 6 (max) at £5.00 per person, cash on the door. Bring you own nibbles, drinks and glasses. Raffle, standing bingo and refreshments during the break. Book a table in advance. St. Swithun’s Church Hall, Allington, Bridport DT6 5DU. Contact : 07741457505.

The Brutalist (18) 215 mins film 7:30pm. Bridport Electric Palace, 35 South Street, DT6 3NY. Tickets £8.50 Book online electricpalace.org.uk.

Mikeleiz-Zucchi Duo – Winners of the Royal Over-Seas League Annual Music Competition’s Mixed Ensemble Prize and City Music Foundation Artists, the Mikeleiz-Zucchi Duo’s repertoire spans everything from reimagined traditional works to modern repertoire and improvisation, all vividly rendered by the unique combination of saxophone and accordion. Promoted by Concerts in the West. Tickets: £20. 7.30pm at Ilminster Arts Centre, TA19 0AN. 01460 54973 www.ilminsterartscentre.com

Friday, 11 – 13 April

Sherborne Travel Writing Festival at the Powell Theatre, Sherborne. Rory MacLean, travel writer of more than a dozen books, has curated an exciting programme of talks to motivate, inspire, and excite armchair and intrepid travellers alike with unmissable stories of enlightening and challenging adventures from home and around the globe. To find out about the weekend programme of talks and to buy tickets, visit www.sherbornetravelwritingfestival.com. Tickets can also be bought from Winstone’s Bookshop, Sherborne.

Saturday, 12 April

Join the folk Dancers for a Ceilidh in St Marys Church House Hall from 7.30 -10.30pm. Music by ‘Jeroka’ and calling by Ruth Thompson. Teas {Or BYO ) and light bites plus a Raffle. No partner needed nor previous experience required. Only £10 (Children welcome with an adult…£1} Tel:863552 or text 07456730753 for information.

Bridport & West Dorset Rambling Club 6 mile walk from Broadwindsor. For further information please ring 01308 898484 or 01308 863340. New members/visitors welcome.

Cattistock Point-to-Point at Chilfrome (signed off A356). An afternoon of Pony Races and Steeplechase Races in beautiful countryside. Local food, bar, bookies, ice cream, stalls and children’s entertainment. Further information: pointingwessex.co.uk., or njatkinson10@gmail.com.

Top Secret -The Magic of Science 2pm Family science show. Bridport Electric Palace 35 South Street, DT6 3NY. Tickets £16.50 Book online electricpalace.org.uk

Cantamus presents ‘Exsultate!’, a concert of beautiful choral music for spring. Holy Trinity Church, Bothenhampton, Bridport at 7pm. Tickets £12 on the door (cash or card). Refreshments available.

Yarcombe Village Market from 10-12 noon in Yarcombe Jubilee Hall EX14 9BN. Stalls include local Farm eggs, plants, cakes, pies and pasties, local traditional farm pork, woodwork,gifts, homeware and lots more including lovely Easter goodies. Coffee and cake stall. Contact Helen 078586 25421.

Wild Brew! The Making of the Beltane Brew. 10am Gathering the Herbs for the Beltane Brew Lower Barton Farm, Nether Cerne DT2 7AJ what3words congratulations//shepherdess/ locating The Beltane Beer is a vibrantly energising brew of traditional spring tonic herbs. In the morning we will forage for the herbs with medical herbalist Eleanor Gallia, gathering our cleansing and invigorating ingredients from the ancient chalk downland, Smacam Down. Join us and learn about the historic, medicinal and celebratory properties of our glorious native plants and the trees that play such a prominent role in the Celtic quarter days. The wild spring herbs we harvest will be brewed in the afternoon workshop at Cerne Abbas Brewery. Please wear appropriate shoes and clothing and bring secateurs, gloves and a basket. There is livestock and wildlife on the hill so please do not bring dogs, thank you. Morning incl homemade nettle soup and roll £15. For more information visit https://cernevalley.co.uk and click through to Cerne Giant Festival for a full brochure.

Starting Off the Beltane Brew 1.30-2.30pm Cerne Abbas Brewery, Chescombe Barn, Barton Meadows, DT2 7JS. The annual limited edition Beltane Brew is always eagerly anticipated, and provides liquid nourishment for the thirsty revellers at 5.30am when the Morris Men dance to greet the sunrise. Come along to help them create this year’s elixir. Medical herbalist Eleanor Gallia will explain the cleansing and invigorating herb ingredients, then take your turn to toss them into the wort at it seethes in the vast copper. Beer and cider will be on sale, both on tap and bottled. Food for lunch will also be available, so make an afternoon of it relaxing at the brewery. Afternoon £7.50 incl ½ pint. All day (with brewing) £20. For more information visit https://cernevalley.co.uk and click through to Cerne Giant Festival for a full brochure.

Saturday, 12 April – 11 May

The Cerne Giant Festival Celebrating Humanity in the Landscape Four weeks of walks, talks, and workshops for you to connect with the Landscape and cultural roots of Dorset. The Festival was born out of the vibrant May Day tradition, when the Morris Dancers and villagers gather at dawn on the Trendle, the original site of the village Maypole at the top of the Cerne Giant. Here they salute the sunrise and celebrate the start of summer with a barrel of Beltane Beer. There are a variety of events so everyone can explore their own connection with the landscape of Dorset and what it means to them. Any profits from the Festival will go towards maintaining the fabric and work of the churches in the participating villages. For more information visit https://cernevalley.co.uk and click through to Cerne Giant Festival for a full brochure.

Sunday, 13 April

Singing Bowl Soundbath 2 PM Bell St Church Shaftesbury SP7 8AL Deep-tissue sonic massage and detox for body mind and spirit. £17 Please book in advance 01935 389655 ahiahel@live.com.

Screening: Andre Rieu – The Dream Continues 2pm. Bridport Electric Palace 35 South Street, DT6 3NY. Tickets £17 Book online electricpalace.org.uk.

French + Breton Folk Dance, Bal Crewkerne with live house band, in the Speedwell Hall, Abbey Street, Crewkerne, TA18 7HY. All welcome, no experience necessary. Dance workshop for beginners 6-7pm followed by main dance 7-9.30pm. Admission £4 at the door. Tea and coffee available or bring your own drinks. Free parking in the town centre car parks. More information on our website: https://balcrew.wixsite.com/balcrewkerne

Monday, 14 April

Scottish Dancing in Chardstock. An evening of Scottish dancing in Chardstock Village Hall EX13 7BH 7.30-10.00 p.m. Tea and coffee provided but please bring your own mug and wear soft soled shoes. No partner required. Cost £2.00. Contact David on 01460 65981. www.chardscottishcountrydance.co.uk.

Bridport Folk Dance Group. If you like music, gentle exercise and socialising, do come along to our dance sessions in the W.I. Hall, North Street on Monday evenings from 7.15pm-9.30pm. No experience or partner required. Occasional live music and always a Caller to guide the dances. Only £3. Tea and biscuits. Tel: 863552 or text 07456730753 for more information.

Judy Clark, Station Manager, Coast Watch, will be talking to members of Dorchester Townswomen’s Guild in Dorchester Community Church, Liscombe Street, Poundbury DT1 3DF after a short business meeting and cup of tea or coffee. 2 p.m. Visitors will be made very welcome (£4). Enquiries 01305 832857.

Tuesday, 15 April

Dance Connection – movement to eclectic music that is guaranteed to make you feel better – no set steps – come alone or with a friend or partner, 7-8:30pm (doors open 6:50pm), LATCH, Litton Cheney Hall, DT2 9AU, 07787752201, danceconnectionwessex@gmail.com, www.joysofdance.co.uk.

Walk with West Dorset Ramblers. 6.5 miles. Central Portland – a linear walk . Start 10am Masonic c.p. bus stop, Victoria Square, Portland DT5 1AR. Bring picnic/snack and money /bus pass . To book and for details contact 07798732252.

Wednesday, 16 April

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

Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy (15) 125 mins film 7:30pm. Bridport Electric Palace 35 South Street, DT6 3NY. Tickets £8.50. Book at electricpalace.org.uk.

Professor William Buckland (1784 – 1856) – The most distinguished person – so far – to have been born at Axminster’ (Part II), a history talk by David Knapman. 7:30pm, Bradshaw Meeting Room, Axminster Heritage Centre, EX13 5AH. Tickets £5 available from the Axminster Heritage Centre during opening hours. For more details email: info@axminsterheritage.org or tel: 01297 639884.

Drax of Drax Hall talk and book signing Dr Paul Lashmar shares the shocking and, until now, untold story of Dorset’s own slave-owning dynasty. Drax of Drax Hall: How One British Family Got Rich (and Stayed Rich) from Sugar and Slavery. An unauthorised history of the Drax family. Published by Pluto. 6 pm. Waterstones, 21 East St, Bridport DT6 3JX.

Thursday, 17 April

Folk dancing at Combe St Nicholas village hall (TA20 3LT) at 1930 hrs.Mary Blackborow will be calling and her band will be providing the 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.

South Somerset RSPB Local Group SOS for Rare Bumblebees in Somerset. An illustrated talk presented by Jo Chesworth from the Bumblebee Conservation Trust. South Somerset is one of just five locations in England and Wales where the Shrill carder bee is found. Jo will introduce us to bumblebee ecology and conservation and give us an overview of the Save our Shrills Project (SOS) which was started in 2023. 7.30pm The Millennium Hall, Seavington St. Mary, Ilminster, TA19 0QH. Entry: Group members £4, non-group members £5, under 25’s Free. Tea/coffee & biscuits included – Wheelchair access. Further details from Denise Chamings on 01781473846 or www.rspb.org.uk/groups/southsomerset. Everyone welcome.

Friday, 18 April

Cavern Beatles 7:30pm. Bridport Electric Palace 35 South Street, DT6 3NY. Tickets £29.50 Book online electricpalace.org.uk.

Milborne Movies Join us at Milborne St Andrew Village Hall for a special screening of The Outrun, starring the brilliant Saoirse Ronan. Based on Amy Liptrot’s bestselling memoir, this moving drama takes you on a journey of recovery and self-discovery in the wild beauty of Orkney. Tickets are just £6.50, including a drink or ice cream! Doors open at 7pm, with the film starting at 7.30pm. Come along for a great night of cinema in good company – we look forward to seeing you there!

Saturday, 19 April

Phil Beer Trio 8pm. Bridport Electric Palace 35 South Street, DT6 3NY. Tickets £26 Book online electricpalace.org.uk

Sunday, 20 April

Easter at Yeovil Railway Centre, Yeovil Junction, Stoford BA22 9UU: Steam train running Sunday and Monday. Full details on Facebook; on website www.yeovilrailway.freeservers.com; or recorded information on 01935 410420.

Tuesday, 22 April

Bridport U3A The U3A monthly talks are held on the 4th Tuesday of each month at the Bridport United Church Hall, East Street, Bridport. DT6 3LJ. There will be a short AGM followed by a talk by our chairman, Alastair Forbes – ‘How to be a Good Tourist’. We will start at 2pm and Alastair’s talk will be followed by a Q&A then refreshments. Members free, visitors £3.

Turn Lyme Green Talks – “The Power of Place: Why communities like ours are vital to global climate action”.Lyme Regis resident Claire Anholt Duthuit works with the UN Climate Change High-Level Champions to accelerate climate action worldwide.. Fresh from COP29 in Azerbaijan, Claire will share why – from Devon and Dorset to Dhaka – bold local leadership is essential to tackling climate change. With visuals from creative campaigns around the world and a hands-on interactive exercise, this talk will explore how local leadership is driving global change – and why Lyme’s connection to climate diplomacy is closer than you might think. This event will be preceded by Turn Lyme Green AGM 6.45 – 7.30pm at the Driftwood Cafe, Baptist Church, top of Broad Street, Lyme Regis, DT7 3NY. FREE Event, Refreshments available. Contact www.turnlymegreen.co.uk or 01297 446066.

Deep Roots: a Dorset Country Life 7 for 7.30pm St Mary’s Church, Abbey Street, Cerne Abbas DT2 7TQ Robin Mills has lived and farmed in the Cerne Valley since boyhood. During the last 20-odd years he has photographed the people and scenes of farming and country life around him. Following a successful exhibition at The Sherborne, Robin will be in conversation with Michael McCarthy, talking about his farming life, and showing a selection of his evocative black and white images. Signed copies of his book, Deep Roots, will be on sale after the talk, price £25.00. £5 from each book sale will be donated to Giant Festival funds. £7 including wine or soft drink. For more information visit https://cernevalley.co.uk and click through to Cerne Giant Festival for a full brochure.

Wednesday, 23 April

The Grapes of Wrath 11am. The Day of the Locusts 2pm. The Hate you Give 5pm. The Penguin Lessons 8pm. From Page to Screen Bridport Film Festival. For full details visit: www.bridport-arts.com/fpts.

Uplyme and Lyme Regis Horticultural Society. Talk ‘No-Dig Gardening – How to Get the Soil to Work for You’ by Becky Searle. Uplyme Village Hall 7.30pm. Doors open 7pm. Members free; guests £3. More information https://ulrhs.wordpress.com.

Bringing Beavers Back to Dorset 7 for 7.30pm St Mary’s Church, Abbey Street, Cerne Abbas DT2 7JQ Beavers disappeared from Dorset over 400 years ago. In this lecture, Steve Oliver of the Dorset Wildlife Trust will tell the fascinating story of how beavers introduced in 2021 have settled into their Dorset home. He will explain how these unique mammals can play a vital role in river ecology and provide nature-based solutions to flooding, pollution and species loss. With a lifelong passion for wildlife and nature conservation, Steve is part of the team restoring beavers the landscape, whilst raising awareness and understanding about what it means to have these magnificent creatures return. £7 including wine or soft drink. For more information visit https://cernevalley.co.uk and click through to Cerne Giant Festival for a full brochure.

Wednesday 23 – 27 April

From Page To Screen – Bridport’s Film Festival Curated by this year’s guest curator, director/producer and American History lecturer, Andrew Chater. For details visit: www.bridport-arts.com/fpts.

Thursday, 24 April

NGS Garden Open for charity Slape Manor Netherbury, Bridport DT6 5LH. River valley garden in a process of transformation. Spacious lawns, wildflower meadows, and primula fringed streams leading down to a lake. Walk over the stream with magnificent hostas, gunneras and horizontal Cryptomeria japonica ‘Elegans’ around the lake. Admire the mature wellingtonias, ancient wisterias, rhododendrons and planting around the house. Kitchen garden renovation underway. Slape Manor is one of the inspirations behind Chelsea 2022 Gold medal winning and Best in Show Garden designed by Urquhart and Hunt with Rewilding Britain. Mostly flat with some sloping paths and steps. Ground is often wet and boggy. This garden is looking amazing and better than ever. Used to open for us under different ownership, Anthony and Sczerina Hitchens. The new owners have done extensive work on the woodland gardens beyond the lawn, added in wildflowers to the front of the house and on the back lawn and have fully renovated the kitchen garden. In addition to this they have worked on the borders by the house, now filled with peonies, roses, shrubs and some unusual and more rare plants. They have also added in lots of tulip bulbs in peach, purple and orange which will be out in April. You can take a longer walk around the lake and a pathway through the fields as the house sits within 100 acres of its own land. Slape Manor is one of the prettiest houses in Dorset and has a wonderful large terrace at the back with views across the garden and land. It is a great place to sit and they serve lovely home-made teas. River Cottage with Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall was first filmed here before moving to its new base near Axminster. Opening 1-5 pm. Adm: £15, child free. Admission includes optional guided tour on first come first served basis. Dogs on short leads welcome. Home-made teas. Visits also by arrangement 1st Feb to1st Dec for groups of 8-20 Location: 1m S of Beaminster. Turn W off A3066 to Netherbury. House ½m S of Netherbury on back rd to Bridport signed Waytown.

Screening: Pink Floyd in Pompeii (12A) 7:30pm. Bridport Electric Palace 35 South Street , DT6 3NY. Tickets £17 Book online electricpalace.org.uk.

Encore Singers, a friendly Dorchester-based mixed choir, start rehearsals for their summer concert. We rehearse in the United Church, South Street, Dorchester on Thursday evenings 7.30 – 9.30, singing songs from the shows and other easy listening pieces, putting on 3 concerts a year in aid of local charities. We currently have vacancies in all voices, but are primarily looking for altos, tenors and basses and would love to welcome some new members. In the first instance, please call Liz on 01305 786421 to check availability in your voice part and to let us know you’ll be coming. Please don’t just turn up on the night! A basic ability to read music is required.

Couples Only Partner Dance Class – Perfect for ‘First Dance’ practice! – 7:30-9:30pm – Glow Collective, St Michaels Trading Estate, Bridport – Limited spaces – Must be booked in advance £20 per couple – www.dynamic-dance.uk.

Calling all colour lovers, come and join us for bespoke talks from our Lead Stylist, on ‘How to build the best capsule wardrobe’. Followed by an exclusive Kettlewell Archive Sale with heavily discounted styles & one-off samples. 10am – 5pm. Book Online www.kettlewellcolours.co.uk. Kettlewell, Goldenhaye Ind Estate, Cricket St. Thomas.

One Flew over the Cuckoo’s Nest 11am. Certain Women 2pm. Winter’s Bone 5pm. The Room Next Door 8pm. From Page to Screen, Bridport Film Festival. For details visit: www.bridport-arts.com/fpts.

Friday, 25 April

St Margarets Hospice Glorious Garden and Earth Day celebration. 11.00am-2.00pm Free Entry. Join us for the first Glorious Garden of the year at Yeovil Hospice Hub, where our beautiful spring garden will be in full bloom! Wander through our winding paths, surrounded by colourful tulips and blossoming trees, and enjoy a relaxing cup of tea with delicious homemade cakes from our hospice kitchen and pick up your 2025 Glorious gardens Brochure. Little Tarrat Lane, Yeovil BA20 2HU.

Time for Tea. ‘Different Branches of the Civil Defence’ by Nigel Sadler. An informal talk including refreshments. 2pm – 3:30pm, Bradshaw Meeting Room, Axminster Heritage Centre, EX13 5AH. Tickets £3.50 available from the Axminster Heritage Centre during opening hours. For more details email: info@axminsterheritage.org or tel: 01297 639884.

Walk with West Dorset Ramblers. 10 miles. Ham Hill Circular – via the Parrett Trail and Montacute. Start 10am from the Ham Hill viewpoint c.p. nearest postcode TA14 6RW. Bring picnic. Dogs by arrangement with walk leader. To book and for details contact Chris 07715760884.

In Cold Blood 11am. Deliverance 2pm. All the King’s Men 5pm. The Apprentice 8pm. From Page to Screen, Bridport Film Festival. For details visit: www.bridport-arts.com/fpts.

Saturday, 26 April

Scottish Dancing Party in Chardstock. An evening of Scottish Dancing at Chardstock Village Hall EX13 7BH 7.30-10.30 p.m. No partner required. Please bring your own mug and a plate of food to share. Tea and coffee provided. Cost £5.00 Contact David on 01460 65981. www.chardscottishcountrydance.co.uk.

Bridport & West Dorset Rambling Club 7 mile walk from Evershot. For further information please ring 01308 898484 or 01308 863340. New members/visitors welcome.

Are You There God? It’s Me Maragret 11am. Who Framed Roger Rabbit? 2pm. Nickel Boys 5pm. The Wind 8pm. From Page to Screen, Bridport Film Festival. For details visit: www.bridport-arts.com/fpts.

Saturday, 26 – 27 April

Folly Farm Cottage Spyway Road, Uploders, Bridport DT6 4PH. An established garden of approx 1 acre with a contemporary twist. The garden has 4 connecting rooms, a main lawn with borders, ornamental trees and rose bed, a large pond area with mature trees, grasses, golden willow & silver pear which leads on to a natural fruit orchard, tennis court, greenhouse & mixed raised bed. Far reaching views of Eggardon Hill & the surrounding fields. The majority of the garden can be enjoyed via wheelchair, there are 3 short steps at the kitchen side entrance of house. I love this garden, it has distinct areas and is well kept. The roses near the house are well maintained and there are a couple of unusual garden sculptures. The house is just down from the Spyway Inn and from the garden you can see all across the valley and up to Eggardon Hill, it is stunning. Steph is very jolly and does fundraising for a couple of local charities. The garden is just around the corner from South Eggardon Farmhouse which does by arrangement visits, if people want to make a day of it. Opening: 1-5 pm. Adm: £6, child free. Dogs on short leads welcome. Home-made teas. Location: On Spyway Road ½m on L from Matravers House, Uploders. ½m on R from The Spyway Inn, Askerswell.

Angels of Sound Module 1 10 am-5pm Oborne Village Hall, Oborne, nr. Sherborne, Dorset DT9 4LA Learn the secrets of sound healing by toning and overtone chanting using the sacred Sanskrit vowels. £128/£64 deposit. NB attendance at both Modules is required. (Mod 2 follows in June) 01935 389655 ahiahel@live.com.

Dancing into Elemental Art. Salwayash Village Hall, Bridport. A creative weekend of movement and art inspired by a walk in nature in glorious West Dorset Feed your soul, take time out from the rush of life, allow yourself to slow down and embody the elements of the natural world. The weekend will be led by Wendy Hermelin, an experienced Laban trained dancer and teacher. Open to all levels of experience. Fee: £180.00. Deposit £50.00. To secure a place please contact. mail@wendyhermelin.co.uk. www.wendyhermelin.co.uk.

Sunday, 27 April

Singing Bowl Soundbath 2pm Oborne Village Hall, Oborne, nr. DT9 4LA £17 Deep-tissue sonic massage and detox for body mind and spirit.£17 Please book in advance 01935 389655 ahiahel@live.com.

The Age of Innocence 11am. The Ice Storm 2pm. Road to Perdition 5pm. Hot Milk 8pm. From Page to Screen, Bridport Film Festival. For details visit: www.bridport-arts.com/fpts.

Dalwood Jazz Club presents Pete Allen’s Octet.with Pete on clarinet, Roger Marks – trombone, Chris Hodgkins – trumpet, Trevor Whiting – clarinet & sax, Max Brittain – guitar, James Clemas – keyboard, Jim Newton – drums and Dave Hanratty – bass at 3pm. Dalwood Village Hall, EX13 7EG, near Axminster. Bar for beer/wine/soft drinks and teas/coffees/cake etc. Parking at the Village Hall £12.50p. If possible, please book in advance and pay cash at the door. t.mackenney111@btinternet.com. www.dalwoodvillage.co.uk.

Netherbury Repair Cafe is a free community group for Netherbury, surrounding villages and towns. The Repair Cafe is 10am – 12 noon on the last Sunday of every month, apart from August and December, at Netherbury Village Hall: Also on 25th May, 29th June nd 27th July. We have volunteers who fix stuff, but we need more! Join our Sewing Team. We especially need help for Diana and Christina who lead our sewing team with repairing clothes, altering curtains, rescuing much-loved cuddly toys and even making a sail for a model boat! We work as a team, share knowledge and tips and you will be fully supported. You don’t need to come to every event and so please get in touch if you would like to volunteer as a repairer or can donate a cake or put up a poster. Lisa Willis on 07870 950 666 or info@repaircafenetherbury.org www.repaircafenetherbury.org.

Garden open for the NGS, Broomhill, Rampisham DT2 0PT. 2-5pm Come and enjoy a 2 acre country garden, with colourful blossom, bulbs, and early spring flowering plants, the borders bursting with summer promise. Easy access and plenty of parking. Cream teas and homemade cakes, plants for sale and well behaved dogs are welcome on lead.

Dorchester String Quartet – 3pm. A Celebration of Spring St Mary’s Church, Abbey Street, Cerne Abbas DT2 7JQ. David Price is part of this quartet, which will be performing works by Purcell, Borodin, and Percy Grainger; as well as Mozart’s Clarinet Quintet with Walter Brewster on clarinet. The concert will last about an hour. Tickets £12 Adults, children free (includes tea and cake) will only be available at the door. St Mary’s Church will be given a percentage of the proceeds. For more information visit https://cernevalley.co.uk and click through to Cerne Giant Festival for a full brochure.

Monday, 28 April

Farming: at a Crossroads or a Roundabout? 6.30 for 7pm Holy Trinity Church, Church Lane, Godmanstone DT2 7AQ What is the state of farming today? How did we get here? Where are we heading? Intensification? Rewilding? Regenerative or Organic? Will there be any famers left in the future anyway? Renowned local storyteller and organic farmer Will Best grew up roaming the fields of Manor Farm, and he and his wife Pam were pioneers in the commercial production of organic milk. Parking is available at the Smith Arms carpark and Manor Farm DT2 7AQ £7 each including soft drink. For more information visit https://cernevalley.co.uk and click through to Cerne Giant Festival for a full brochure.

Tuesday, 29 April

Lunchtime Concert. Piano recital by Nicholas Brown. St. Andrew’s Church, Charmouth. 12:30 with light refreshments from 12:00. Free entry donations welcome. 01297 560681, liz@elizabethsansom.co.uk.

Walk with West Dorset Ramblers. 9 miles. Around Arne – via Slepe Farm, Shipstal Point and Arne. Start 10am Sunnyside Farm c.p. (SY939863) Bring picnic. Dogs by arrangement with walk leader. To book and for details contact Ian 07826150114.

The Mystery & History of Morris Dancing 7 for 7.30pm St Mary’s Church, Abbey Street, Cerne Abbas DT2 7JQ Those who can arise in the early hours of 1st May or who are fans of the Boxing Day Mumming will be familiar with the Wessex Morris Men. Members will give an illustrated talk about the rich history of this tradition. On 3rd May there will be a free workshop in the Village Hall. £7 including wine or soft drink. For more information visit https://cernevalley.co.uk and click through to Cerne Giant Festival for a full brochure.

Wednesday, 30 April

Meeting Voices Community Choir, Chard. 19.30 to 21.15. Sing for fun. Learn songs in harmony by ear. Everyone welcome. Chard Guildhall. Fore St, Chard TA20 1PP. Phone 07534 116502 or email mvsecretary@outlook.com.

Thursday, 1 May

Prayers For The Stolen (2021)(15). 7.30pm. From Page to Screen, Bridport Film Festival. For details visit: www.bridport-arts.com/fpts.