West Dorset

What's on in and around West Dorset

October 2006

Information supplied courtesy of West Dorset District Council & West Dorset Tourist Board

EXHIBITIONS

to 01/10 Artists Of The Jurassic Coast Eype Centre For The Arts At St Peter's, Eype, Bridport, 10am – 4pm. Art Sale and Exhibition featuring Michael Chappell, Briand Cocks, David Potter, Gerry Dudgeon, Billie Willcocks, Patrick Mills, Pat March and Fiamma Montagu.

to 06/10 Serendipity Art Exhibition Portland Museum, 217 Wakeham, Portland, 10.30- 5.00pm daily.

A tribute exhibition to the potter Guy Sydenham, who lived on Portland and regenerated Poole Potteries. This exhibition will showcase the work of LARC,four artists comprising a sculptor, a potter and two painters.

to 07/10 Alpha House Gallery - The Human Figure Alpha House Gallery, South St, Sherborne, Tuesday - Saturday 10 - 5. Exhibition displaying the work of Paul Jackson, Mo Jupp, David Risk Kennard, Gill Watkiss. Contact: 01935 814944.

to 08/10 Lyme Regis ArtsFest The 4th Lyme Regis ArtsFest with over 50 open studios and various workshops throughout the week. Contact : 01297 444817

to 15/10 Face To Face - Portraits From Joshua Reynolds To Julian Opie Sherborne House, Newland, Sherborne, Tuesday - Sunday 10.30am - 4.30pm. Portrait exhibition. Contact: 01935 816426.

to 31/10 A Multitude Of Pots Forde Abbey, Nr. Chard, 10.30am - 4.30pm. New ceramics by the Eeles Family Potters - Raku, Shino, Chuns & Celedons glazes to die for! Contact : 01308 868257

to 04/11 Dorset Feather Stitchery: Bringing Colour To The 1950's Dorset County Museum, High West Street, Dorchester, closed Sundays. This nostalgic exhibition looks back to the 1950's, when a devoted group of WI members developed a popular new style of embroidery. The colourful innovation of Dorset Feather Stitchery did much to brighten the post-war austerity years. Contact : 01305 262735

07/10 - 21/10 Exhibition Of Watercolours And Drawings Newland Gallery, 101 Newland, Sherborne, 10am - 1pm and 2pm - 5pm. Exhibition by Harry Bullock. Contact: 01935 812177.

17/10 - 28/10 Dorset Pottery Group Annual Exhibition Bridport Arts Centre, South St, Bridport, 10am - 4pm (closed Sunday & Monday). An amazing variety of useful, functional wares and ornamental work made by talented local potters from across the county. Affordable prices!. Contact: 01308 867116.

21/10 - 19/11 Sherborne House Exhibition 'Future Palette' Sherborne House, Newland, Sherborne, Gallery open Tuesday - Sunday 10.30am until 4.30pm. The last exhibition of the Colour & Chemistry series, showing the work of the bursary winners - Balint Bolygo, Stig Evans and Daro Montag. Contact: 01935 816426.

MARKETS

BEAMINSTER Farmers’ Market 4^th Saturday in each month – Town Hall 9am-1pm; Gustomarket on 7^th October, 8.30am - 1pm in the Public Hall. Contact: 01308 495351.

BRIDPORT Town Centre. Every Wednesday and Saturday, Farmers’ Market 2^nd Saturday in each month – Arts Centre 9.30am-2pm, W.I. market in the WI Hall, North Street every Saturday 9am-12 noon

BROADMAYNE St. Martin’s Community Hall, 22^nd September, 2pm-3.30pm

DORCHESTER Fairfield Car Park, Weymouth Avenue 8am – 3pm every Wednesday

Farmers’ Market 1^st Saturday in each month – Poundbury, 9am-1pm

Gustomarket 28^th October, Brownsword Hall, Poundbury, 8.30am - 1pm Contact: 01308 495351.

LYME REGIS Gustomarket 29^th October, Town Mill Yard, 11am – 4pm. Contact: 01308 495351

SHERBORNE The Parade, every Thursday and Saturday; W.I. market in Church Hall, Digby Road Thursday mornings, 9.15am; Farmers’ Market 3^rd Friday in each month – Cheap Street, 9am-1pm

FOSSIL WALKS

Lyme Regis Fossil walks with Dr Colin Dawes every Sunday plus daily during October half term, at 1pm. No need to book – meet at the Old Forge Fossil Shop, Broad Street. Lasts approx. 2.5 hours. Adults £7, Children £3

Fossil walks from Lyme Regis Museum. During October walks take place on 7^th at 10.30am, 8^th at 11.15am, 10^th at 12.30pm, 21^st at 9.45am, 22^nd at 10.30am and 24^th at 11.30am. Walks last approx. 2 hours – Adults £8, Children £5, including entrance to museum. Tel. 01297 443370 to book (essential) and for further details.

Fossil walks with Brandon Lennon Daily fossil walks - details and times available from Mike’s Minerals & Fossils – tel. 01297 444405 (booking essential).

Fossil walks also organised by Dinosaurland (01297 443541) and Busters Bernard (01297 444614) – please telephone for further details.

Fossil walks from Lyme Regis Fossil Shop Booking essential on 01297 442088

Charmouth From the Heritage Coast Centre, Charmouth. Fossil Fantastic Weekend on 7^th/8^th October from 10am. Join the warden team at the centre for a whole weekend of fossil hunting and activities for families and children Walks last approx. 2 hours and include a 20 minute talk on fossils. No need to book. Adults £7, Children £3. Private walks, warden talks and fossil and marine film shows also available throughout the year. Tel. 01297 560772

EVENTS DURING OCTOBER

30/9-01 Jurassic Open Boat Festival West Bay, Bridport. Fishing from 10am - 4pm Saturday and 9am - 3 pm Sunday. West Bay Sea Angling Club boat fishing competition - prizes each day & prizes for overall winner of the 2 days. Contact: 01308 421272.

30/9-08 Lyme Regis Arts Fest A full programme of events with something for everyone. Full details available from local TICs or see www.lymeregisartsfest.com. Contact : 01297 442373

01 Car Boot Sale The Barn House, Loders, Bridport, 2 pm onwards. £5 per boot. Booking essential. Fundraising for the Loders Young Players. Contact: 01308 420767.

01 Castleton Waterwheel Open Day Off Oborne Road, Sherborne, 11am - 5pm. Contact: 01963 250206.

01 Organ and Soprano Concert St Michael's Church Church Street, Lyme Regis, 7.00pm. Judy Simmonds - Soprano and Alex Davies - organ. In aid of The Lyme Regis Organ Appeal. Tickets available on the door.

01 Luna Flamenco Marine Theatre, Church Street, Lyme Regis, doors open 7.30pm - on stage 8.00pm. Spanish Guitar and Flamenco Show with singing and dancing. Contact : 01297 442138

01 Ramblers’ Walk From Beaminster Yarn Barton Car Park, Beaminster, 10.30am. A 16 mile walk taking in Netherbury, Bradpole and Mapperton. Contact: 01460 72892.

01 Robert Buckler Racing Open Day Melplash Court Farm, Bridport, 9.30am – 12.30pm. Programme includes a parade of horses with commentary, a demonstration of training young horses to jump followed by a demonstration of ridden schooling by professional jockeys (Daryl Jacobs and William Kennedy) plus prize draw to finish. All proceeds in aid of the Injured Jockeys Fund, local Air Ambulance and Motor Neurone Disease Association. Adults £5, Children £2. Contact: 01308 488318

01 Wedding Fair Kingston Maurward, Dorchester. Contact: 01305 215003.

01 Broad Oak Apple Day Broad Oak Community Orchard, Nr. Sturminster Newton, 1.30 - 3.30pm. Bring apples for identification by Chris Hunter from Kingston Maurward; add your apples to the mix to produce some Dorset Wildlife Trust Spider Cider; lots of other competitions and games plus music and stories by Tim Laycock. Contact: 01305 264620.

02 Dorchester Peace & Justice Group - Climate Change Cheselbourne Room , United Church, Dorchester, 7.30pm. A presentation on Climate Change by Colin Dewsnap of Dorset Agenda 21. Followed by discussion – all welcome. Contact: 01305 815965

03 Bridport Film Society - "A Common Thread" Bridport Arts Centre, South Street, 7.45pm. The winter programme of the Bridport Film Society commences with ' A Common Thread' . Contact: 01308 488224.

03 Creative Footsteps - a walk along the Thorncombe section of the Wessex Ridgeway Thorncombe Village Hall, 10am -4pm. A walk and writing taster with local writer James Crowden, who will encourage you to jot down what you have seen and learnt and feelings evoked from your journey. On Tuesday 17th and Tuesday 31st October there will be two half day writing sessions from 10am to 1pm, in which James will help you produce and develop your own writing about the Ridgeway. It is all free and the village hall in Thorncombe will be the base. Contact: 01460 30247.

03 Forest Forge Theatre Presents ' A Wild Weekend' Bere Regis Village Hall, 7.30pm. Forest Forge Theatre make a welcome return to the Arstreach circuit with their hilarious town meets country comedy. Contact: 01929 471342.

03 Sing Your Heart Out Marine Theatre, Church Street, Lyme Regis, 7.30pm. An evening of song with mulled wine and Dorset apple cake. Bosom Friends teach traditional Dorset songs with new arrangements by Caroline Rigby and Sally Reed . Contact : 01297 442138.

03 The Victorian Inventor: Hero Of The Industrial Revolution Digby Hall, Hound Street, Sherborne, 8.00pm. Sherborne Historical Society lecture by Dr Christine MacLeod, Senior Lecture in Economic and Social History.University of Bristol. Contact: 01963 364075

04 Sherborne Flicks – Volver Church Hall, Digby Road, Sherborne, 7.30pm. Starring Penelope Cruz. (Film in Castilian with English subtitles). Tickets £5 available from Sherborne Tourist Information Centre. Contact: 01935 815341.

04 Yetties Music Night West End Hall, Sherborne, 8pm. With special guests 'Hearts of Oak'. Contact: 01935 814611.

05 Jungle Journeys Melbury Osmond Village Hall, 7.30pm. An evening with acclaimed photographer & raconteur Ben Osborne, following two rainforest filming expeditions to Gabon & Guyana for David Attenborough's celebrated BBC series 'Planet Earth'. Contact: 01935 83410.

05 Lets Do It Digby Hall, Hound Street, Sherborne, 7.30pm. A celebration of the lines of Noel Coward and Cole Porter, presented by AsOne Theatre, who introduce you to these famous yet enigmatic men, their stories and music interlinked by photographs and film evoking contrasting times of gaiety and depression. AsOne guarantees lots of laughter, a few tears and sprinkling of controversy. Tickets £8.50 - available from Sheborne TIC. Contact: 01305 835541.

05 Ramblers’ Walk From Chedington Winyards Gap Inn, Chedington, 10.15am. Today's walk is just over 4 miles long and is a circular walk including some hills which will be taken slowly. Contact: 01935 862721.

06 'Rorke's Drift' A Talk By David Rattray The Big School Room, Sherborne School, Sherborne, doors open 6pm, lecture 7pm. David Rattray, Fellow of the Royal Geographical Society and one of the world's great narrators, returns to Sherborne. The event is in aid of Farm Africa. Wine bar & raffle - tickets £17.50 to include glass of wine. Contact: 01935 823541/826184.

06 Chekhov's Shorts Marine Theatre, Church Street, Lyme Regsis 8.00pm. The European Arts Company presents a collection of short comic plays by the Russian master, including The Evils of Tobacco, The Proposal and Swan Song. Cabaret style seating. Contact: 01297 442138.

06 Dog Days, Lion Nights Broadoak Village Hall, 7.30pm. Acclaimed photographer and raconteur Ben Osborne returns to the Arstreach circuit with two astonishing illustrated lectures to accompany the recent BBC/Daid Attenborough "Planet Earth2. Tonight’s lecture highlights the spectacular landscapes of Northern Botswana. Contact: 01308 424922.

06 Dorset Wildlife Trust Talk Friends' Meeting House, South Street, Bridport, 7.30pm. 'The National Parks of England and Wales' - an illustrated talk by Donald Campbell. Contact: 01297 489116.

06 Fall Of Adam (film) And Memento Mori (Physical Theatre) Dorchester Corn Exchange, The Grove, Dorchester, 8pm. A dance double bill. Contact: 01305 266926.

06 Sherborne School Friday Lunchtime Concert Big School Room, Sherborne School, Sherborne, 1.30pm. Percussion concert by pupils of Sherborne School. Free entry. Contact: 01935 812249.

07 Book Fair Church Hall, Digby Road, Sherborne, 10am - 4pm. Contact: 01935 850210.

07 Muttnik Bridport Arts Centre, South Street, Bridport, 2pm. Enchanting tale about Laika, the dog that the Russians sent into space told in puppety, music and dance. For age 3 years plus. Contact: 01308 424204.

07 Come Singers All Marine Theatre, Church Street, Lyme Regis, workshop 2.00pm - 5.30pm, concert at 7.00pm.

A huge sing-in at the final workshop in the afternoon followed by an evening concert. Contact: 01297 442138.

07 Dance - Mainly Ballroom Uplyme Village Hall, Lyme Road, Lyme Regis, 8.00pm - 11.00pm. Ballroom, Latin and some Sequence, everyone welcome. Entry £3.50 including tea & biscuits, in aid of hall funds.

07 Family History Open Day Dorset History Centre, Dorchester, Bridport Road, 10.30am to 3.30pm. Expert advice, family activities, behind the scenes tours. Free admission, all welcome. Contact: 01305 228943.

07 Poems On A Plate Masonic Hall, Broad Street, Lyme Regis, 8.00pm - 10.00pm. Poetry evening; tea, coffee and cake will be available. Contact: 01297 443840.

07 Royal British Legion (Bridport) Quiz Night Legion Hall, Victoria Grove, Bridport, 7.30pm. A very popular quiz night in aid of the Senior Citizen's Christmas Party. Tickets £3.50 to include supper. Please bring your own drinks.

07 The World's Biggest Coffee Morning Brownsword Hall, Poundbury, 9.30am - 12.30pm. Tombola, gifts, Christmas cards and cookery books. All in aid of MacMillan.

07-08 Discover the New River Cottage HQ Park Farm, Nr Lyme Regis, 12 noon – 4pm.. After months of preparation, River Cottage HQ is about to move to a new home – Park Farm, which has already been the location for the new River Cottage TV series and will be the venue for all future River Cottage events. This autumn, the gates are being thrown open for the first time with two special ticket only visitors’ days when visitors will be able to enjoy a tour of the farm, buy River Cottage goodies and publications, find about courses and events and of course sample delicious fresh-cooked food. Numbers are limited – for more details or to book tickets see www.rivercottage.net, tel. 01308 420020 or e-mail events@rivercottage.net

08 2006 Convention Of Alternative Archaeology & Earth Mysteries Church Hall, Digby Rd, Sherborne, 10am - 8.30pm. 'The Da Vinci Code and Ley Lines come to Dorset!' The 2nd major assembly bringing together enquiring minds seeking deeper truths about our ancient spiritual heritage. The event is organised by Peter Knight, local author of four popolar books on Dorset's ancient heritage. Top speakers, stalls, vegetarian food and refreshments. Contact: 01258 472722.

08 Creative Footsteps - Walk And Write Your Way Along The Wessex Ridgeway Cerne Abbas Village Hall, 10am –4pm. On Sunday 8th and Sunday 22nd October. If you would like to discover more about the Wessex Ridgeway then why not join local writer James Crowden, on a journey along this beautiful ancient track, responding to its landscape, flora, fauna and history, in your own words. Contact: 01305 269512.

08 Walk For Wildlife 2006 Moreton Village Hall, Moreton, 10am - 12noon. Want to have fun and raise vital funds to protect snow leopards in Nepal's sacred Himalayan Landscape? Be part of something big by joining in WWF Walk for Wildlife 2006. Venue: Moreton and 'the puddles'. The walk is moderately easy, young children and dogs welcome. Contact: 01305 852795.

08 - 10 Drawing And Watercolour Painting Course At Highway Farm Highway Farm Near Bridport. Award winning marine artist Michael J Chappell will be running this course. This residential course costs £120 per person and includes 2 nights B&B, light lunch, coffee/tea, and one evening meal. Single occupancy +£10. Additional persons or extra nights £26.50 pppn. Visit www.highwayfarm.co.uk. or contact: 01308 424321.

09 Dorset Wildlife Trust Talk Brooklands Farm, Forston, Nr. Dorchester, 7.30pm. 'Underwater Purbeck - an illustrated talk by Julie Hatcher, People and Wildlife Officer at Kimmeridge. Contact: 01305 834051.

10 Dorset Moviola – "The Wind That Shakes The Barley" Bridport Arts Centre, South Street, Bridport, 7.45pm. Palm d'Or winner at Cannes film festival. Tickets £5, £4 members/concessions. Contact: 01308 424204.

10 Bridport History Society Meeting - D Day Deception Bridport United Church, 2.30pm. A talk by Adam Forty of the Royal Signals Museum, Blandford. Contact: 01308 456876.

10 Creative Footsteps - Walk & Write Your Way Along The Wessex Ridgeway Lyme Regis Town Mill, Lyme Regis, 10 - 3.30pm. On Tuesday 10th, 24th from 10 - 3.30 and Tuesday 31st October from 2 until 5. if you would like to discover more about the Wessex Ridgeway then why not join local writer James Crowden, on a journey along this beautiful ancient track, responding to its landscape, flora, fauna and history, in your own words. Contact: 01305 269512.

10 Flax 303 In 'The Rain Has Voices' Drimpton Village Hall, 7.30pm. A powerful and absorbing play about family, memory and new beginnings, written by Shona Morton from the Somerset based Flax 303. Contact: 01308 867031.

11 A Dorset Natural History & Archaeological Society Geology Talk Dorset County Museum, 6.30pm. This talk forms part of the Dorset Natural History & Archaeological Society geology series of talks. Contact: 01305 262735.

11 Mammal Detective In Dorset Corn Exchange, Market Place, Blandford Forum, 7pm. Dorset Badger Group in conjunction with Dorset Wildlife Trust presents an illustrated talk by Michael Woods, Chaiman of the Mammal Society. Contact: 01300 341249.

11 - 28 Screen Bites; Dorset Food Film Festival A celebration of food and film at thirteen venues across the county - food-themed feature films and documentaries with food and wine tastings from local farm shops and producers. All evenings start with the Savouring Europe documentary, followed by tastings and then a feature film. Full programmes available from local TICs or see www.screen-bites.co.uk or tel. 01963 32525.

12 Fashion Show Marine Theatre, Church Street, Lyme Regis, 7.30pm. Fashion Show organised by Lyme Regis Operatic Society. Contact: 01297 442138

12 Save the Children Autumn Fair Herrison Hall, Charlton Down, Nr.Dorchester, 10.30am – 3pm.

12 - 14 Sid Kipper in "From Kipperfield To Kipperling" In Village Halls at Piddletrenthide on 12^th, Burton Bradstock on 13th, Evershot on 14^th, all at 7.30pm. Sid Kipper, Norfolk’s finest, returns to the Artsreach circuit with a new repertoire of readings, stories and songs . Contact:01300 345252 (Piddletrenthide), 01308 897214 (Burton Bradstock), 01935 83580 (Evershot)

13 A Victorian Lantern Show Sherborne County Primary School, Harbour Road, Sherborne, 7.30pm. Rotary Club of Sherborne presents a Victorian Lantern Show featuring historical photographic and hand coloured slides dating from the mid 19th century to the First World War, accompanied by prose and verse. Also showing glass slides from Sherborne Museum's collection of local advertising slides originally shown at the Carlton Cinema, Sherborne and some slides of the 1905 Sherborne Pageant. Admission £4 - tickets available from Sherborne Museum. Contact: 01935 812252.

13 Dangerous Curves West Stafford Village Hall, 7.30pm. A sparkling show of fun, humour and harmony from Dorset's own all female a capella group. Contact: 01305 257266.

13 Dominant String Quartet Sir John Colfox School, Bridport, 7.45pm. A Bridport and West Dorset Music Club concert. Contact: 01308 424673.

13 Johnny Mars & Stars Marine Theatre, Church Street, Lyme Regis, doors open 7.45pm; on stage 8.30pm. Blues, Jazz & Rock inspired music with legedary harmonica player Johnny Mars and talented young local musicians. Support band - Four Star Lovers. Contact: 01297 442138

13 Lets Do It Corn Exchange, Dorchester, 7.30pm. A celebration of the lines of Noel Coward and Cole Porter, presented by As One Theatre. Tickets : Adults £9, OAP £6, Child £6 - available from Dorchester TIC: 01305 267992.

13 Sherborne School Friday Lunchtime Concert Cheap St Church, Sherborne, 1.30pm. Sherborne School Singers' recital. Contact: 01935 812249.

13 Sleeping With Dinosaurs Dorset County Museum, High West Street, Dorchester, 6.15pm onwards. Spend a night with the dinosaurs! Just bring a sleeping bag plus roll mat or lilo (the floors are very hard) and be prepared to have a great time. A torch would also be a good idea! Each child must be accompanied by an adult , but each adult can bring up to three children. Tickets cost £12.50 for a child and £10.00 for an adult. A light breakfast is included in the price. Tickets are selling fast so please ring 01305 262735 as soon as possible to reserve your place. Children aged 8 - 14 are warmly invited to come along for an exciting evening of dinosaur-themed drama, crafts and story-telling plus an exclusive guided tour of the new Jurassic Coast Gallery. Contact: 01305 262735.

13 Waking The Witch Buckland Newton Village Hall, 7.30pm. A stunning all-female quartet performing R&B, rock and jazz, blues and acoustic roots. Contact: 01300 345521.

13 Yetties Concert Puddletown Village Hall, 7.30pm. Contact: 01305 848646.

13 - 14 Douzelage Conference Digby Memorial Church Hall, Digby Rd, Sherborne, 9am - 5pm. Conference will be held in various places around town - main reception in the Church Hall in Digby Rd. Contact: 01935 815377.

13 - 14 French Market Cheap St, Sherborne, Sherborne. Enjoy a little bit of France! Organised by the Sherborne Douzelage, there will be 16 - 20 stalls to wander around. Contact: 01935 815377.

13 - 15 Beer R&B Festival Beer, Nr. Lyme Regis - Friday evening, Saturday day & evening, Sunday day. Annual R&B Festival - events in various locations in Beer. Contact: 01494 511886.

14 A Sailor In The Victorian Navy Salway Ash Village Hall, 10.00am. A Somerset and Dorset Family History Society event. "A Sailor in the Victorian Navy" by Alan Brown followed by "All at Sea with the Gollop Family" by Ken Gollop. Contact: 01297 489567.

14 Anuna - Irish Vocal Group Big Schoolroom, Sherborne School, Sherborne, 7.30pm. Irish vocal group Anuna is probably most associated with the Riverdance performance at the Eurovision Song Contest in 1994. Since then the group has recorded, toured, appeared at the Proms, performed numerous concerts and inspired and influenced choral music worlwide. Its ethereal sound is unique and its live performances have been described as magical, hauntingly beautiful and hypnotic. This evening the choir will be performing from a repertoire spanning 12 centuries of Ireland's music and history, ranging from the chants of wandering Irish Monks of the Dark Ages to the most beautiful music of modern native composers. Contact: 01935 816332.

14 Autumn Coffee Morning United Church Main Hall, East St, Bridport, 10am to 12 noon. All welcome – organised by Golden Cap Centre of the National Trust. Contact: 01297 489116.

14 The Big Draw At Sherborne House Sherborne House, Newland, Sherborne, 11am - 1pm and 2pm - 4pm. The Big Draw is the UK's biggest annual art event - everyone welcome, young and old. Contact: 01935 815899.

14 Concert by The Phoenix Singers St Michael's & St George's, Church Street, Lyme Regis, 7.30pm. The Phoenix Singers with conductor Andrew Maddox . One in a series of concerts in aid of The Lyme Regis Organ Appeal.

14 Dorset Chamber Orchestra St Mary's Church, Edward Road, Dorchester, 7.30pm. Luy Anne Allen, Karen Evans and Abigail Leigh perform Respighi - 3 Botticelli Pictures, Bach - Brandenburg Concerto No4, Sibelius - Scene with Cranes & Valse Triste, Schubert - Symphony No 1. Contact: 01305 260360.

14 Friends Of Mountjoy Special School Present A Fundraising Cabert Evening Freshwater Beach Holiday Park, Burton Bradstock, 8.30pm - 1am, a Bee Gees Magic Tribute Band, Band Flying High & Disco by Nicky G. Tickets £10 Contact: 01308 420037

14 Lets Do It Marine Theatre, Church Street, Lyme Regis, 7.45pm. A magical multi-media mix of memories and music celebrating Noel Coward and Cole Porter. Contact: 01297 442138

14 The Mellstock Band Perform The Shepherd's Calendar Eype Centre for the Arts, Eype, Nr Bridport, 7.30pm. The very popular Mellstock Band, under the direction of founder Dave Townsend perform "The Shepherd's Calendar" which depicts Merrymaking and Courtship throughout the country Year - a unique entertainment of music, song and spoken words, using authentic instruments and period costume. Tickets from Bridport TIC £8.00/£7.00. Contact: 01308 424901

14 Quimantu Portesham Village Hall, 8pm. Latin American music with passion and intelligence. Contact: 01305 871780.

14 Sherborne Antiques & Collectors Fair Digby Hall, Hound Street, Sherborne, 9am - 4pm. Contact: 01460 75069.

14 Symondsbury Apple Day Tea Symene Sports Field, Duck Street, Symondsbury. The Symondsbury Apple Day Tea is celebrated annually on or near 21st October, the National Apple Day ceelbration instigated by Common Grond in 1990 to raise awareness of the plight of England's orchards and to celebrate and declare their unique and precious contribution to our culture, landscape, rural economy and psyche. Contact: 01308 428913.

15 Peter And The Wolf Colfox School, Bridport, 3pm. Martin Clunes will be narrating this performance of Prokofiev's Peter and the Wolf in aid of Julia's House Children's Hospice. The orchestra will be conducted by Ronald Easey and led by Lowri Porter of the Welsh National Opera. Tickets from Smith & Smith, West St, Bridport. Contact: 01308 422286.

16 Pack Monday Fair Sherborne, approx. 9am til late evening. Annual fair dating back to medieval times. Now a huge street market in the main streets of Sherborne. Also funfair Pack Monday and the weekend preceding. Contact: 01935 815341

17 Dorset Industrial Archaeology Society AGM and talk. Dorset Room, Colliton Club, Dorchester, 7pm. AGM followed by 'Canals of Somerset and Dorset', a talk by Derrick Hunt. Non-members welcome at £2 per person. Contact: 01305 785968.

17 Reporting Parliament Through The Ages Digby Hall, Hound Street, Sherborne, 8.00pm. Sherborne Historical Society Lecture by Mr. Peter Hill, Free-lance TV Producer. Contact: 01963 364075

18 Dorset Wildlife Trust Talk Church Hall, Digby Road, Sherborne, 7.30pm. 'DWT Involvement with Farming and Agriculture' - an illustrated talk by Jeremy Powne and Debbie Watkins, DWT SNCI Liaison and Advisory Officers. Contact: 01935 872774.

18 The Isle Of Man And Other Islands - A Talk By Thorncombe Rail Activities Club Thorncombe Village Hall, 7.30pm. Talk given by John Gulliver. Contact: 01460 30474.

18 Michaelmas Market Digby Hall, Hound Street, Sherborne. Contact: 01209 822391

18 Quiz Night Marine Theatre, Church Street, Lyme Regis, 7.30pm for 8.00pm. Theatre Friends Quiz Night. Teams of up to six players. Contact: 01297 442138

19 Cancer Awareness Open Day Hammick House, Bridport Road, Dorchester. The Information Centre at Hammick House in Poundbury will be open to anyone who has concerns or questions about women’s cancers. There will be specialist nurses available to talk to between 2pm and 7pm. Contact: 01305 269898

19 - 20 Green Wood Bowl Carving Course Mangerton House, Mangerton, 9am - 5pm. A 2-day green wood bowl carving course. Informal, fun and relaxing. All tools, materials and a light lunch included. Beautiful setting just outside Bridport. Pre-booking essential - www.mallinson.uk.com or tel. 01308 485111.

19-5/11 Enchanted Floodlit Garden At Abbotsbury Sub Tropical Gardens Abbotsbury Sub Tropical Gardens, Abbotsbury, floodlit from dusk til 8.30pm. Take a magical evening stroll along candle lit pathways through enchanted glades. Enjoy a hot summer in the Colonial Teahouse. Christmas shopping in the gift shop. Contact: 01305 871130.

20 Bridport Arts Centre. Klezamania Bridport Arts Centre, South Street, Bridport, 8pm. Music by the band Klezamania covering a broad range of styles. £10, £9 members, concessions. Contact: 01308 424204.

20 Charterhouse Auction Long Street Sale Rooms, Sherborne, viewing Wednesday from 10am to 4pm, and Thursday from 10am to 7pm. Sale starts on Friday at 10am, with viewing from 8.30am. Antiques, decorative arts, pictures, prints and books. Contact: 01935 812277

20 Sherborne School Friday Lunchtime Concert Cheap St Church, Sherborne, 1.30pm. Free Concert by Sherborne School’s Brass group. Contact: 01935 812249.

20 RNLI Traditional Drill Hall Dance Sea Cadet Training Centre, Barrack Road, Weymouth, 7.30pm - midnight. A funfilled evening of dancing and entertainment. £10 entrance and hot supper. licensed bar. All proceeds to the lifeboats. Contact: 01305 784641.

20 - 21 Beverley Davison Presents A 'Classical Cabaret' Performances in Thornford Village Hall on 20th at 8pm and Herrison Hall, Charlton Down on 21st at 7.30pm. The extraordinary violinist Beverley Davison, together with piano accompaniment, demonstrates her dazzling virtuosity in her hit show 'Classic Cabaret'. Described as the Dawn French of the violin, Beverley has taken classical music by the neck and made it fun and entertaining. Contact: 01935 873762 (Thornford), 01305 251099 (Charlton Down)

21 Algae Amble At Chesil Beach Centre Meet at Chesil Beach Centre, Ferrybridge, 2pm for a short walk down to the beach to look at the types and distribution of seaweeds. Cost £2 adults, £1 children. Wear wellies! Contact: 01305 760579

21 The Big Draw At Dorset County Museum Dorset County Museum, Dorchester. Bring alive a picture from the museum's collection through drawings, animation and paper puppets. Contact: 01305 262735

21 Book Market Church Hall, Digby Road, Sherborne, 9.30am - 4pm. Contact: 01747 841148.

21 Churches Great And Small Cattistock Church, Cattistock, 7.30pm. An illustrated talk on the history and architecture of the twenty churches and chapels which make up the Melbury Team Ministry. Tickets £3.50 on the door to include a glass of wine and free raffle. All proceeds to church funds. Contact: 01300 321010

21 Dance - Mainly Ballroom Uplyme Village Hall, Lyme Road, Lyme Regis, 8.00pm - 11.00pm. Ballroom, Latin and some Sequence, everyone welcome. Entry includes tea & biscuits, in aid of hall funds.

21 Lions Auction Digby Hall, Hound Street, Sherborne Contact: 01963 23370

21 Persuasion Marine Theatre, Church Street, Lyme Regis, 7.30pm. Dorset Corset Theatre Company presents Jane Austen's 'Persuasion' adapted by Helen Davis. Tickets available from Lyme Regis TIC. Contact: 01297 442138

21 The Lions Club Of Dorchester Annual Swimarathon Thomas Hardye Leisure Centre, Coburg Road, Dorchester. Sponsored by Humphreys Kirk – entry forms available from their office at 40 High West St. Contact: 01305 251007.

21 Treorchy Male Choir Sherborne Abbey, Sherborne, 7.30pm. In aid of Dorset & Somerset Air Ambulance. The programme will include traditional songs for all tastes (opera, spiritual, hymns, light/modern). Tickets £10 - available from Sherborne Tourist Information Centre. Contact: 01935 815341

22 A Day With The Dog Listeners Kingston Maurward College, Dorchester, 11am to 4pm. The day will centre around a talk by Jan Fennell, author of the bestselling book 'The Dog Listener', who has helped many owners to live a happy and relaxed life with their canine companions. Contact: 0845 4580059.

22 Fungus Foray At The Kingcombe Centre Kingcombe Centre Nr Beaminster, 10.30am – 4.30pm. Led by John Wright, this is one of two days exploring the fungi found at the beautiful Kingcombe Centre (the day is repeated on 5^th November). Cost £15 adults, £5 children. Contact: 01300 320684

22 NGS Open Garden Dominey's Yard, Buckland Newton Open 2pm – 6pm. Contact: 01300 345295

22 - 24 Tutti Frutti Presents 'Jack' Performances in village halls of Whitchurch Canonicorum on 22nd at 4pm, Pimperne on 23rd at 10.30am, Cerne Abbas on 23rd at 4pm, Frampton on 24th at 10.30am and Thorncombe on 24th at 4pm. With leading children's writer, Mike Kenny, original soundscapes by Ivan Stott and involvement of international puppetry company Faulty Optic, the ever popular Tutti Frutti create a magical, imaginative (and at times scary!) journey into extraordinary worlds. Suitable for ages 3+. Contact: 01297 489232 (Whitchurch C), 01258 480262 (Pimperne), 01300 341085 (Cerne Abbas), 01300 320607 (Frampton), 01460 30247 (Thorncombe).

24 Creative Footsteps - Walk & Write Your Way Along The Wessex Lyme Regis Town Mill, Lyme Regis, 10am - 3.30pm. If you would like to discover more about the Wessex Ridgeway then why not join local writer James Crowden, on a journey along this beautiful ancient track, responding to its landscape, flora, fauna and history, in your own words. Contact: 01305 269512.

24 Talk on The Seaton Tramway Woodmead Halls, Hill Road, Lyme Regis, 2.30pm. The Lyme Regis Society presents a talk by a Tramway volunteer. Members and non-members welcome. Contact: 01297 444162.

25 In The Footsteps Of The Famous Five Ginger Pop Shop, The Square, Corfe Castle, 2pm. A walk and talk around Corfe Castle Village. No need to book!

25 Josh Elwell Presents 'Bird In Hand' Thornford Village Hall, 10.30am. Josh Elwell and Co present a vibrant and enchanting piece of visual theatre for families and children from 5 years upwards. The show combines beautiful hand carved puppets with clowning and live music. Also a performance in Ansty village hall on the same day at 4pm. Contact: 01935 873762 for Thornford performance

25 Kakatsitsi : Master Musicians Of Ghana Dorchester Arts Centre, School Lane, The Grove, Dorcheter, 8pm. Drummers, dancers and singers from Southern Ghana. Contact: 01305 266926.

25 - 28 Party Piece - Lyme Regis Dramatic Society Marine Theatre, Church Street, Lyme Regis, 7.45pm. Lyme Regis Dramatic Society perform "Party Piece" – a play by Richard Harris. A fancy dress, house warming party is the setting for this fast paced comedy, packed with action and set in the back gardens of feuding neighbours. Contact: 01297 442138

26 - 28 Matt Marvey & Jerri Hart In 'Two Men In A Show' Performances in village halls at Chetnole on 26th at 7.30pm, Powerstock on 27th at 8pm and Shillingstone on 28th at 7.30pm. A wonderful comedy/poetry/music/cabaret melange. Contact: 01935 873555 (Chetnole), 01308 485264 (Powerstock), 01258 860784 (Shillingstone).

26 - 28 Mizar Travelling Planetarium Dorset County Museum, High West Street, Dorchester, 10-5pm For three days during the October half-term come and learn all about the night skies above us. See over 3000 pinpoint stars, the planets, Sun, Moon, the Milky Way and more all appear on the inner surface of a giant dome. Contact: 01305 262735

26 - 28 Puppecraft Presents 'Nobody Rides The Unicorn' Performances in village halls at Sandford Orcas on 26th at 10.30am, Cranborne on 26th at 4pm, Winfrith on 27th at 10.30am, Child Okeford on 27th at 4pm and Morden on 28th at 3pm. A wonderful new show for all aged 4+ with superbly crafted puppets, original live music, lyrical songs, sound effects, exquisite design and moments of unexpected magic. Contact: 01963 220173 (Sandford Orcas), 01725 517883 (Cranborne), 01305852117 (Winfrith), 01258 861391 (Child Okeford) and 01929 459285 (Morden).

27 Burton Concert Burton Bradstock Village Hall, 7.30pm. Performance by the St Swithuns Band. Contact: 01305 782854

27 Talk - Urban Archaeological Database Project Dorset County Museum, Dorchester, 7.30 pm. A talk by Peter Bellamy, organised by the Dorchester Association. Contact: 01305 262630.

27 Muttnik : The First Dog In Space Dorchester Arts Centre, The Grove, Dorchester, 1pm and 6pm. Half Term Children's Theatre. An enchanting tale told with dance, music & puppetry. Contact: 01305 266926.

27 - 28 Luis D'Agostino & Pete Oxley Peformances in village halls at Fontmell Magna on 27th and Drimpton on 28th, both at 7.30pm. Anglo-Argentinian jazz guitar duo who promise an evening of scintillating guitar music, enjoyable to anybody interested in the instrument. Contact: 01747 854225 (Fontmell Magna) or 01308 867031 (Drimpton).

27 - 28 Sherborne Craft Market Digby Hall, Hound Street, Sherborne, 10am – 5pm. High quality annual craft market, now in its 34^th year! Contact: 01935 872556

28 Apple And Harvest Day Kingston Maurward College Gardens, Nr. Dorchester, 10am - 4pm. Apple trees, other fruit trees, cider, fruit, cakes, jams, oils and chutneys for sale; farmers' market; competitions and prizes, plants, bulbs and seeds for sale, gallery of art by local school children, also colourful harvest display by the horticultural students. Contact: 01305 215183.

28 Book Fair Uplyme Village Hall, Lyme Road, Lyme Regis, 10.30am - 4pm.

28 Bridport Combined Charities Christmas Card Fair & Coffee Morning Bridport United Church, 9.30am to 12.30pm. With coffee morning. Fifteen local charities selling cards and small gifts. Contact: 01308 425037.

28 Halloween Special At Abbotsbury Sub Tropical Gardens Abbotsbury Sub Tropical Garden, Abbotsbury, dusk until 8.30pm. Fun evening for children in the enchanted floodlit garden. Free face painting. Come in fancy dress. Contact: 01305 871130.

28 Lyme Youth Theatre Workshop Marine Theatre, Church St, Lyme Regis, 10.00am -4.00pm. For young people 8- 16 years . Taster workshops including acting, movement, storytelling, singing and much more. Contact: 01297 442138

28 Sherborne Antiques & Flea Market Church Hall And Age Concern Day Centre, Digby Road, Sherborne, 9am - 4pm. . Contact: 01935 250108.

28 Sherborne House Project Seminar 'Pigments Past' Powell Theatre, Abbey Rd, Sherborne, 10am - 4.30pm. An exploration of the pigments used by artists, potters and interior decorators over the last 350 years. Speakers will include artist Roy Osborne, potter & educationalist Harry Horlock Stringer, Dr Ian Bristow - a specialist in 17th and 18th century interiors, and Baroque wall painting conservator Jane Davies. Contact: 01935 816426

28 Thorncombe Art Exhibition Thorncombe Village Hall, 10am - 4pm. To be opened by Oliver Letwin MP. Entry free (donations to charities please). Refreshments - teas, coffees, light lunches, cream teas. Many original paintings for sale. Contact: 01460 30247.

28 West Art Fair At St Mary's Church Hall, Bridport St Mary's Church Hall, Bridport, 9.30am – 3.30pm. Paintings, cards, crafts and photographs - and lots more besides.

28- 29 Sherborne Castle Autumn Colours Weekend Sherborne Castle, Sherborne. Reduced price grounds entry to see the glourious autumn colours. Contact: 01935 813182

29 Dearest Tania - A Portrait Of The Pianist Harriet Cohen Eype Centre for the Arts at St. Peter's, Nr. Bridport, 7.30pm. In this exciting new project for 2006 Duncan Honeybourne has worked as creative concert producer, scriptwriter and solo pianist to bring to life the legendary pianist and glittering society figure Harriet Cohen (1895-1967) . 'Dearest Tania' features piano music by Elgar, Bax, Vaughan Williams, Moeran, Sibelius, Bartok and Chopin. Tickets from Bridport TIC - Prices £9.00 and Friends £8.00. p.m. Contact: 01308 424901

29 Festival Of Remembrance Marine Theatre, Church Street, Lyme Regis, 7.30pm. The Royal British Legion Festival of Remembrance with the Lyme Regis Town Band and compere Philip Evans. Contact: 01297 442138

29 Ramblers Walk From Loders Loders School Nr Bridport, 10.30am. A 12 mile walk which takes in Nettlecombe, Burcombe Wood and Oxbridge. Contact: 01935 429333

30 Lecture 'A Look At The Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra' United Church Main Hall, East St, Bridport, 7.30pm. A look at the Symphony Orchestra from the back desk of the violas! Lecture by Ian Pillow, organised by the Golden Cap Centre of the National Trust. Contact: 01297 489116.

31 Basket Making at Highway Farm Highway Farm, Nr. Bridport. A chance to learn basket making with tutor Andy - you will achieve a beautifully handmade basket in a day. Cost £40, materials included, please bring your lunch. Limited spaces. Contact : 01308 424321

ADVANCE NOTICE!!

CHARITY CHRISTMAS CARDS

Once again from the beginning of November, West Dorset Tourist Information Centres will selling Charity Christmas Cards on behalf of the Cards for Good Causes group of charities.

FOR FURTHER DETAILS ON EVENTS AND THE LOCAL AREA PLEASE CONTACT:

Whilst every effort has been made to ensure that the information contained in this leaflet is correct at the time of going to print, West Dorset District Council cannot accept any responsibility for any errors or omissions. Inclusion in this leaflet does not imply any recommendation by West Dorset District Council. Produced by West Dorset District Council, Leisure and Tourism Division.