West Dorset

What's on in and around West Dorset

August 2007

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

EXHIBITIONS

to 29/09 Exhibition: The Man and the Myth: Lawrence of Arabia Dorset County Museum, Dorchester. An exhibition exploring the extraordinary life of T E Lawrence through photographs, letters and personal effects. Tel. 01305 262735. www.dorsetcountymuseum.org

to 31/10 Eeles Family Potters Exhibition Forde Abbey, Nr. Chard, 10.30am – 4.30pm. "Fired in the Wood Flame" – woodfired stoneware, porcelain and raku by David, Patricia, Benjamin and Simon Eeles (300 exhibits). 01308 868257 www.eelespottery.co.uk

14/07 - 25/08 Alpha House Gallery Exhibition South Street, Sherborne, Tuesday – Saturday 10am – 5pm. "Taking A Line For A Walk". An exhibition of drawing, with colourful ceramics and glass & programme of workshops and talks. 01935 814944. www.alpha-house.co.uk

14/07 - 12/08 Open 07 Exhibition - Margins Sherborne House, Newland, Sherborne. Work selected from open submission - a fascinating mix of photography, installation, sculpture, textiles and painting. Open Tuesday - Sunday 10.30am - 4.30pm, 01935 816426. www.sherbornehouse.org.uk

25/07 - 04/08 Bridport Art Society 50th Annual Art Exhibition Allsop Gallery, The Art Centre, South Street, Bridport, 10am – 4pm. Art Exhibition to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the Bridport Art Society. 01308 871116.

28/07 - 05/08 Art Exhibition - Russian Dorset Abbotsbury Village Hall, Abbotsbury. Iryna - oil paintings. Oksana - painted silk. Svetlana - glass fusions.

28/07 - 11/08 Wednesday Art Group Exhibition Bridport Tourist Information Centre, South Street, Bridport, Mon-Sat, 9am – 5pm Exhibition of paintings by the Wednesday Art Group in the window at Bridport TIC.

28/07 - 28/10 Abbotsbury Swannery - Photographs Abbotsbury Swannery, Abbotsbury. A unique exhibition of black and white photographs that have been taken at the Swannery by Dorset photographer - Sue Macpherson. www.suemacpherson.co.uk

07/08 - 08/08 Lyme Regis Art Group Carnival Week Exhibition Masonic Hall, Broad Street, Lyme Regis, 10am – 5pm. Lyme Regis Art Group Carnival Week Exhibition. 01297 442956.

17/08 - 20/08 Burton Bradstock Festival of Music & Art – Art Exhibition Over 60 artists. 01308 897487

25/08 - 27/08 Bridport Open Studios Bridport. Visit artists studios, get a glimpse of their work and how it is created. Various locations and opening times. 01308 897568. www.bridportopenstudios.co.uk

25/08 - 27/08 The Front Room Exhibition 110 South South Street, Bridport, 10.30am-4.30pm Sat- Mon. Threshold 6x4 Exhibition. Part of Bridport Open Studios. Postcard size work inspired by theme of 'Threshold' Artists exhibiting include graduates from the Royal College of Art, Royal Academicians, local and international artists, painter's from St Ives, writers and poets.

25/08 - 30/09 Mosterton Art Group Exhibition Skyrm Room, Church Street, Beaminster, 10am – 5pm. Paintings in many different media, for sale at affordable prices. 01308 862864.

GUIDED WALKS

Abbotsbury Abbotsbury Guided Village Heritage Walk Meet at Village Car Park South Exit, Abbotsbury. Guided walk with Abbotsbury Heritage Research Project guide every Sunday at 2.30pm during July, August and September. Tour lasts approx. 1 hour and is free although donations to the Abbotsbury Heritage Research Project would be welcome! 01305 871693.

Bridport Guided Walking Tour Of Bridport every Thursday at 2.30pm. Meet at Bridport Tourist Information Centre, Souith Street. Discover the footpaths and alleys of this fascinating Saxon town with a Blue Badge Guide and learn what it means to be stabbed by the Bridport Dagger. Walk lasts approx 1½ hours. 01308 424901.

Dorchester Guided town walk with Blue Badge Guide every Monday and Tuesday morning at 11am. Meet at Dorchester Tourist Information Centre, Antelope Walk. Explore the County Town and uncover it's past from Judge Jeffreys' Bloody Assizes to Thomas Hardy's Casterbridge and the Roman occupation. Walk lasts approx. 1½ hours. Cost £3 per person. 01305 267992

Guided Tours of the Old Crown Court & Cells (16/07 - 07/09/) West Dorset District Council, Stratton House, High West Street, Dorchester. Visit the Old Crown Court and Cells in Dorchester and discover its gripping history.

Famous for the trial of the Tolpuddle Martyrs. 01305 252241

Sherborne Guided town walk with Blue Badge Guide every Friday at 11am. Meet at Sherborne Tourist Information Centre, Digby Road. Gain an amazing insight into this historic mediaeval town and explore the courts of Sherborne School, the setting of three major films. Walk lasts approx. 1½ hours. Cost £3 per person.

Toller Porcorum Wednesday afternoon walks at the Kingcombe Centre. Meet at the Centre at 2.15pm and return for tea and cake at 4pm No need to book in advance although a telephone call would help with catering. Tel. 01300 320684

Whitchurch Free Organic Farm Walks at Becklands Farm, Whitchurch Canonicorum, Bridport every Wednesday (11^th July to

Canonicorum 12^th September) at 2pm (farm opens at 12pm). Optional organic lunches available (please pre-book). Organic cream teas from 4pm (with or without walk). Tel. 01297 560298

FOSSIL WALKS

Lyme Regis Fossil walks with Dr Colin Dawes every Wednesday, Friday and Sunday 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 at Lyme Bay with Brandon Lennon take place every Saturday, Sunday, Monday and Tuesday. Times vary according to tide and start fromThe Anchor, Cobb Gate. Private bookings available on other days. Tel. 07944 664757 for further details and to book.

Fossil walks from Lyme Regis Museum 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 also organised by Dinosaurland – tel 01297 443541for details.

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

Charmouth Fossil hunting walks from the Heritage Coast Centre, Charmouth on. Walks last approx. 2 hours and include a 20 minute talk on fossils. £7 adults, £3 children. Walks almost daily during August – pick up a programme from local TICs or Tel. 01297 560772 or see www.charmouth.org.

REGULAR MARKETS

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

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

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

SHERBORNE Pannier Market on the Parade every Thursday and Saturday; Country Market in Church Hall, Digby Road, Thursday mornings, 9.15am-11.15am; Farmers’ Market 3^rd Friday in each month – Cheap Street, 9am-1pm.

OWERMOIGNE Monthly market in the village hall 2^nd Saturday of the month, 10.30am - 12 noon. Homemade produce, bric a brac, plants, crafts, books. Contact: 01305 851633

EVENTS DURING AUGUST

30/7-19/8 Sherborne Concertfest Various venues in Sherborne. Sherborne will be, for the third year running, the centre for the ever more popular 3 week Festival of fine classical music concerts hosted by The Canford Summer School of Music. All concerts are again offered for a nominal program cost of just £2.00, and with around 30 performances over the 3 weeks there is something for everyone. Programme will be available from Sherborne Tourist Information Centre. 01962 883006. www.canfordsummerschool.co.uk

31/7 -6/8 Dorset Coastal Guided Walks Charmouth to Studland. A week of themed guided walks along the famous World Heritage Jurassic Coast exploring the diverse wildlife, history, geology and dramatic landscapes of this spectacular coastline with the help of expert guides. Each walk offers special features and optional extras such as boat & kayak tours, pub lunches and rockpooling. £3 per walk or £15 for all 7. Booking essential due to limited spaces. 01929 400155. www.coastlink.org

01 Summer Evening of Music - Lyme Regis Marine Theatre, Church Street, Lyme Regis, 8pm. The great songs from the great shows and great composers, performed by the cream of local artists. An evening to lift your spirits, make your feet tap and send you home with a song in your heart! 01297 442138. www.marinetheatre.com

01 Open Air Theatre at Sherborne Castle - Far from the Madding Crowd Sherborne Castle Lawns, Sherborne. Gates open 6:30pm, performance starts 7:30pm. Open air performance by "Theatreworks" Please bring your own low backed seating or rug and picnic. Advance tickets available from Sherborne Tourist Information Centre, 01935 85341. www.sherbornecastle.com

01 Yetties Music Night West End Hall, 8pm. Sherborne. Monthly music night with the Yetties. 01935 814611.

02 St Mary's Church Fete - Burton Bradstock Rectory Garden, St Mary's Church, Burton Bradstock 2pm – 5pm. Watch the skills of local craftspeople at work; refreshments in the Village Hall; cake stall; ice cream; punch & judy; auction; grand draw; plant sales; stalls to buy from; St Swithun's Band; face painting; handbell ringing; organ playing; games. Admission: Adults 50p, children (12 & under) free, free car parking. www.burtonbradstock.org.uk

03 Blues Brothers Banned - Lyme Regis Marine Theatre, Church Street, Lyme Regis, 8pm. High energy 11 piece tribute act presents a jam packed night of live music. 01297 442138. www.marinetheatre.com

03 Goodblades Present Maxfield The Lounge Nighclub, High West Street, Dorchester, 8pm. The Goodblades present Maxfield featuring ex members of Groove Armada and Roots Manuva. Supported by Moontown. Tickets from The Lounge and Harmony Music.

03 - 04 The Broadmayne Players - Sailor Beware Broadmayne Village Hall, Broadmayne, Dorchester, 7.30pm. A three-act comedy - Sailor Beware. By Philip King and Falkland Cary. Tickets available from The Village Shop or tel. 01305 852613.

04 Alfresco Jazz Evening in the Gardens at Mapperton Mapperton House, Beaminster, 6.45pm. Bridport Round Table with Friends of Mountjoy School. Bring your own picnic and refreshments and enjoy Mapperton Gardens whilst listening to Victoria Hume. No BBQs please.Tickets priced £12.50 per person in advance or £15 on the gate. Tickets from julianhussey@yahoo.com or 01308 862645. www.mapperton.com

04 Flower Festival & Fete Holnest Church, Holnest, nr Sherborne.

04 Modern Guitar Trio At Eype Centre For The Arts Eype, Nr Bridport, 7.30pm. This is a rare opportunity to hear these three virtuoso guitarists in a performance inspired by their recently issued CD "The Modern Guitar Trio". Tickets from Bridport Tourist Information Centre (01308 424901) – Prices £8.00 and Friends £7.00. 01308 898420.

04 Loders Fete Loders Court, Loders, Nr. Bridport, 2.30pm. Fete including children's fancy dress, stalls, whiskey raffle, grand raffle, house tours, children's sports, sport combat, bar, teas and ice cream. Adults £1. Children free.

04 Summer Picnic The Old Rectory, Owermoigne, Dorchester, 7pm – 11pm (gates open 6pm). In aid of Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance. Music by Boy Le Monte. Appearance by Close2me Band with very special guest. 01305 854835 / 852552.

04 - 05 Totally Tools and Terrific Teas St Peter's Church, West Knighton, Dorchester, 2pm – 5pm. Exhibition of traditional tools and skills. 01305 854950.

04 - 11 Lyme Regis Regatta & Carnival Week Lyme Regis. Annual Regatta and Carnival week with a packed programme of daily events including : 4th - Walk of Light & Fireworks; 9th & 10th - Film Nights; 11th - Grand Parade & Fireworks. www.lymeregis.com

05 Osmington Fete Osmington Village Hall & Field, Osmington, 2pm. Grand Family Dog Show, stalls, sideshows, raffle, tombola, children's races, pony rides, bouncy castle, music, teas, ices, BBQ & beer. All the fun of a traditional village fete. Free admission and car parking.

05 Spooky Men's Chorale - Lyme Regis Marine Theatre, Church Street, Lyme Regis, 8.30pm. A wide range of vocals from a group based in the Blue Mountains of Australia. 01297 442138. www.marinetheatre.com

05 Power Tool Drag Racing Haynes Motor Museum, Sparkford. Meet Jason Plato; Multi Lane Scalextric Challenge; Rally Demonstrations; Sensational Drifting Action; Children's activities. 01963 440804. www.haynesmotormuseum.co.uk

05 Castleton Waterwheel Museum Open Day Oborne Road, Sherborne, 11am – 5pm. Come along and see Dorset's largest waterwheel built by Stothert & Pitt in 1869 plus lots of other items to see concerned with the water supply industry. Parking on site. Lots of room for picnics. www.castletonwaterwheelmuseum.org.uk

05 Yeovil Railway Centre Train Day Yeovil Junction, 10am – 6pm (last admission 5pm). Steam hauled train rides, model railway, miniature railway, shops, refreshments, exhibits, art exhibition, displays. www.yeovilrailway.freeservers.com

06 Marine Theatre - Quiz night Marine Theatre, Church Street, Lyme Regis, 7.30pm. The Theatre Friends hold a quiz night every month to raise funds for the theatre. Prizes, refreshments, licensed bar. Come along and have fun and support your local theatre. 01297 442394. www.marinetheatre.com

08 BBQ at Seatown Beach By the Anchor Inn, Seatown, Chideock, 5.30pm – 9pm. Come and Enjoy Lyme Regis Lifeboat, Lyme Regis Coastguards, St John Ambulance, Bridport Police, West Bay Coastguards & Helicopter, Bridport Fire Brigade, Skittles, Tombola, Kitchen, Garden, Car & Holiday Draw, and lots more stalls. Special prizes for children, bring all the family! www.rnli.org.uk

08 Roman Activities at the Town House Meet at the Town House behind County Hall, Dorchester, 10.30am – approx. 3pm. A family activity based around life in Roman times - have a go at recreating life with the Romans by making mosaics and Roman food and trying out Roman writing and games. 01305 262735. www.dorsetcountymuseum.org

09 The Taming of the Shrew - Open Air Theatre Melbury Osmond Village Hall, 7.30pm. Miracle Theatre Company presents The Taming of the Shrew taking a fresh look at the complexities of male/female relationships and gives Shakespeare's romantic comedy a 21st century make over. Bring your own rugs, cushions or camping chairs and picnic. 01935 83410. www.artsreach.co.uk

09 Red Hot Summer Nights - Lyme Regis Marine Theatre, Church Street, Lyme Regis, 8pm. Tribute acts to Abba, smash hit movies and Disco & Motown hits; vibrant singers, superb vocalists. 01297 442138. www.marinetheatre.com

09 Carnival Bingo in Bridport Bridport Conservative Club, North Street, Bridport, Eyes Down at 8pm. Details of all Carnival Events from 07836 516763.

10 Open Air Theatre at Sherborne Castle - Much Ado about Nothing Sherborne Castle Lawns, Sherborne, 7.30pm (gates open 6.30pm). Open air theatre performed by popular theatre group Illyria. Bring a picnic and low backed chairs or rugs. 01935 813182. www.sherbornecastle.com

10 The Taming of the Shrew - Open Air Theatre Sandford Orcas Village Hall, 7.30pm. Miracle Theatre Company presents The Taming of the Shrew taking a fresh look at the complexities of male/female relationships and gives Shakespeare's romantic comedy a 21st century make over. Bring your own rugs, cushions or camping chairs and picnic. 01963 220208. www.artsreach.co.uk

11 Wessex Military Band Concert Bucky Doo Square, Bridport. 01308 425010. www.wessesxmilitaryband.co.uk

11 Sherborne Antiques & Collectors Fair Digby Hall, 9am – 4pm. Monthly antiques fair. Tasty homemade refreshments. Admission 50p, children free. 01460 75069.

11 Tug of War Frampton, Dorchester, 6pm. Frampton Annual Cross-River Tug of War. Bar and barbecue. 01300 320413.

12 Dalek Invasion at Fleet Air Arm Museum Yeovilton, museum open from 10am. A full army of 12 Daleks led by the dreaded Black Dalek and accompanied by menacing Cyber Men and Ice Warriors will be at Fleet Air Arm Museum. Throughout the museum, Dr. Who traders and enthusiasts will be on hand and there will even be "An audience with a Dalek". Children are encouraged to arrive in Sci-Fi fancy dress. Normal admission prices apply. 01935 842638.

12 Panto Society Summer Show Marine Theatre, Church Street, Lyme Regis, 7.30pm. www.marinetheatre.com

12 Summer Live Action Days at Haynes Motor Museum Haynes Motor Museum, Sparkford, Yeovil. A fun filled day, including museum exhibit parade, sensational drifting and rally demonstrations, children's activities and dream car rides. 01963 440804. www.haynesmotormuseum.co.uk

12 Lyme Regis Pantomime Society Summer show Marine Theatre, Church Street, Lyme Regis, 8pm. Lyme Regis Pantomime Society's Summer Show -Hooray for Hollywood - A fully costumed family variety show of singing, dancing and comedy to music ffom the movies. Tickets available from Country Stocks, Broad Street.. www.marinetheatre.com

12 Castleton Waterwheel Museum Open Day Oborne Road, Sherborne, 11am – 5pm. Come along and see Dorset's largest waterwheel built by Stothert & Pitt in 1869 plus lots of other items to see concerned with the water supply industry. Parking on site. Lots of room for picnics. www.castletonwaterwheelmuseum.org.uk

12 Sherborne Town Band in the Borough Gardens Borough Gardens, Dorchester, 3pm.

12 Songs of Praise The Martyrs Cross, on the site of former Chideock Castle, 3.30pm. Bring a plate of food to share afterwards. If weather unsuitable, the service will be in the Church of Our Lady, Queen of Martyrs & St. Ignatius.

13 - 17 Jurassic Fantastic Workshops Dorset County Museum, High West Street, Dorchester, Monday to Friday 10.30 - 12.30 and 1.30-3.30pm . A week's family activities including animation, drama, music and story telling. . Tel. 01305 262735 for full details. www.dorsetcountymuseum.org

14 Burton Bradstock Festival of Music & Art – Schubert Concert Village Hall, Burton Bradstock, 7.30pm Ticket info. – 01308 897487

14 Mapperton Walk &Talk Mapperton House & Gardens, Mapperton, Beaminster, 2.30pm An architectural tour around Mapperton and surroundings with Caroline Sandwich. 01308 862645. www.mapperton.com

15 Summer Evening of Music - Lyme Regis Marine Theatre, Church Street, Lyme Regis, 8pm. The great songs from the great shows and great composers, performed by the cream of local artists. An evening to lift your spirits, make your feet tap and send you home with a song in your heart! 01297 442138. www.marinetheatre.com

15 Burton Bradstock Festival of Music & Art – The Occasional Singers Village Hall, 7.30pm. The Occasional Singers plus fork supper plus ceilidh. Ticket info. – 01308 897935.

16 Carnival Darts in Bridport Bridport Conservative Club, North Street, Bridport, 7.30pm. 3 aside, 1 pair, best of 3 legs, 501, 1 single, best of 3 legs, 501, a team of 1 leg, 701 if necessary. Contact Shaun Fox on 07836 516763.

16 Burton Bradstock Festival of Music & Art – Quintet St. Mary’s, Burton Bradstock, 7.30pm. Quintet including Craig Ogden on guitar – tango and other music. Ticket info : 01308 897487

16 Pirates Treasure Trail on Golden Cap Estate Golden Cap, Charmouth, 11am – 3pm. Children's treasure trail. Come & meet Trusty the Smuggler! Good fun family day out. Anytime between 11am - 3pm Meet at Stonebarrow Car Park SY383934. 01297 561900. www.nationaltrust.org.uk/events

16 - 17 Kitchen & Garden Pole Lathe Turning Mangerton House, Mangerton, Bridport. Spending time working in the woodland workshop is very relaxing, satisfying and fun for all levels of experience. Learn the ancient craft of green (unseasoned) wood working under the tuition of Guy Mallinson and various specialist co-presenters. 01308 485111. www.mallinson.co.uk

17 Antiques Auction in Sherborne Charterhouse Auctions, 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. 01935 812277. www.charterhouse-auctions.co.uk

17 Burton Bradstock Festival of Music & Art – Classical Concert St. Mary’s Burton Bradstock, 7.30pm. Includes Craig Ogden on guitar. Ticket info. : 01308 897487

17 Ellingtonia - Lyme Regis Marine Theatre, Church Street, Lyme Regis, 8pm. The stunning Ellingtonia present a celebration of Duke Ellington's music of the 1920's,30's and 40's. Classic songs and great swing tunes performed with great energy and style. 01297 442138. www.marinetheatre.com

17 Carnival Car Boot Sale in Bridport Asker Meadows, Bridport. Sellers £4 arrival from 5.30pm, starts 6pm.,07836 516763.

18 Archaeological Guided Walk Meet at Long Bredy Church, Nr. Dorchester, 2pm. "Long Bredy and Kingston Russell". Explore the timeline and development of these villages with Peter Northover of Bristol University. Lasts approx. 2 - 2½ hours. 01305 224921. www.dorsetforyou.com

18 Burton Bradstock Festival of Music & Art – Classical Cocnrt + Claire Bradshaw, Mezzo St. Mary’s, Burton Bradstock, 7.30pm. Ticket info : 01308 897487.

18 Dance - Uplyme Uplyme Village Hall, Lyme Road, Uplyme, Lyme Regis, 8pm – 11pm. Dance - Ballroom, Latin and some Sequence. Entry includes tea and biscuits; in aid of Hall funds.

18 Sherborne Book Market Church Hall, Digby Road, Sheborne, 9.30am – 4.30pm . Monthly book market. 01747 841148.

18 Mrs Gerrish's Guest House - Lyme Regis Marine Theatre, Church Street, Lyme Regis, 8pm. The Ministry of Entertainment presents Mrs Gerrish's Guest House - It is 1958 and the summer season is drawing to a close in Weston super Mare. 01297 442138. www.marinetheatre.com

18 Green Woodworking Course For Children & Adults Mangerton House, Mangerton, Bridport. Spending time working in the woodland workshop is very relaxing, satisfying and fun for all levels of experience. Learn the ancient craft of green (unseasoned) wood working under the tuition of Guy Mallinson and various specialist co-presenters, 01308 485111. www.mallinson.co.uk

18 Yetties Concert Woodmead Halls, Lyme Regis, 8pm. Tickets £10 to include a ploughmans supper. 01297 445500

18 - 19 Bridport Carnival Bridport. Procession starts at 7.30pm from St Swithuns Road on 18th August. Dancing in the street to Rick Wills Disco from 9pm to 11pm. Fete starts at 1.30pm on 19th August and the torchlight procession starts at 9pm on 19th August. 01308 425344. www.bridportcarnival.co.uk

19 Open Air Jazz, Latin, Blues concert - Judy Shire and her Band Athelhampton Hall, Athelhampton House, Dorchester, concert 8pm to 10pm, gates open 6.30pm. An evening concert on the lawns of Athelhampton House with International Vocalist Judy Shire and her Band. Bring your own picnic and wines, relax and enjoy the ambiance of an atmospheric evening to remember. This concert is a musical tribute to some of the world's greatest divas and musicians, an evening not to be missed. Tickets available from Dorchester Tourist Information Centre (01305) 267992. 01604 647668. This concert will benefit The Marie Cure Cancer Care Charity. www.judyshire.co.uk

19 Guided walk of Dorchester, the county town Meet at the Hardy Statue, top of town, Dorchester, 2.30pm. A gentle 1 mile wander through the town from Neolithic times, Durnovaria & Casterbridge, to the present. 01300 321010.

19 Carnival Fete in Bridport Asker Meadows, Bridport, 12pm to 4pm. Adults 50p, under 14's free. Huge car boot sale, bar, tea tent, fun fair. Tel. 07903 152769 / 07836 516763.

19 Carnival Torchlight Procession Bucky Doo Square, Bridport. Buy your torch at Bucky Doo from 6.30pm and join hundreds of people walking from Bridport Town Hall to West Bay in this fantastic spectacle, then stay in the Bay and enjoy the Live Band On The Beach, followed by an amazing Firework Display at approximately 10.30pm. 07836 516763.

19 Open Day at Peppers by Post Sea Spring Farm, West Bexington, Dorchester. Take a day off and come and visit us in beautiful West Dorset. It will be a chance to see our market garden, and talk chillies. Chilli plants and fresh chillies for sale. Entry free and everyone invited! 01308 897735. www.peppersbypost.biz

19 Ironman Triathlon Sherborne Castle, Sherborne, from 6am. The full Ironman returns to Sherborne. Entrants compete in the gruelling triathlon of 2.4m swim (in Sherborne Castle Lake), followed by a 112 mile cycle course, finished off with a 26.2 mile run. Spectators welcome, free of charge. 08700 11 28 11. www.ironmanuk.com

20 Creative Regeneration Workshop at Highway Farm West Road, Bridport. "Championing the Wonders of Nature" with Clare Colby. Lots of creative activity, indulge and be inspired by the wonders of nature! Cost £30 including lunch. Workshops run monthly on a Monday and Saturday from May to October. 01308 424321. www.highwayfarm.co.uk

20 Dorset Scrapstore Family Workshop Sherborne House, 11am – 1pm and 2pm – 4pm. A free family workshop. Let your imagination run free - a range of reclaimed materials will be provided to make recycled art - lots of creative guidance from the Scrapstore team. 01935 815899 www.sherbornehouse.org.uk/artslink

20- 25 LYT Summer School - Lyme Regis Marine Theatre, Church Street, Lyme Regis, from 10am daily. A week of exciting workshops led by various theatre skills experts - come and learn while having fun! 01297 442394. www.marinetheatre.com

22 Treasure Island - Lyme Regis Marine Theatre, Church Street, Lyme Regis, 7.30pm. Quantum Theatre presents Treasure Island by Robert Louis Stevenson adapted by Michael Whatmore with music by Gideon Escott. 01297 442138. www.marinetheatre.com

23 Castleton Coffee Morning The Powell Theatre, Abbey Road, Sherborne, 10.30am – 12 noon. Entrance £1.50 to include coffee. Stalls and raffle.

23 Melplash Agricultural Show The Showground, West Bay, Bridport, 8am to 6pm. A great show with all the rural attractions bringing both entertainment and information to visitors young and old. See Jason Smyth with his Adrenaline Tour Motorcycle stunt show! Take a walk around the livestock area and then, on the way to the shopping areas keep an eye skywards for the Team Guilnot Aerobatic Display- a full day out for the family! Tickets available from Bridport TIC 01308 423337 or Dorchester TIC 01305 268992. www.melplashshow.co.uk

24 Market in Broadmayne St Martin's Community Hall, Broadmayne, 2pm – 3.30pm. Produce, cakes, plants, crafts, local eggs, sausages and trout, local farm produce, Fair Trade goods, library etc and enjoy a cup of tea and a chat. 01305 852866.

24 Milton Abbey Music Festival Concert - Faure, Schubert, Bach and Durufle. St Mary's Church, Edward Road, Dorchester, 8pm. Faure: Cantique de Jean Racine; Schubert: The Shepherd on the Rock; Bach: Suite No.3 in C for solo cello; Durufle: Requiem. Tickets available from Dorchester TIC - 01305 267992, Wimborne TIC - 01202 886116, Shaftesbury TIC - 01745 850593, Mr Myers - 01305 852673, The Dorset Music House - 01935 816332.

24 The ELO Experience Marine Theatre, Church Street, Lyme Regis, 8.30pm. Tribute to The ELO featuring their well known songs from the 70's & 80's. 01297 442138. www.marinetheatre.com

24 A Midsummer Night's Dream Minterne House and Gardens, Minterne Magna, Nr. Dorchester, 7pm (gardens open for picnics from 5pm). Open-Air Garden Theatre by Chapterhouse Theatre Company. A Midsummer Night's Dream by William Shakespeare performed at Minterne House and Gardens. Tickets available from Minterne House telphone 01300 341370, Dorchester nd Sherborne Tourist Information Centres - telephone 01305 267992 / 01935 815341. www.chapterhouse.org

24 The Wurzels Live at the Talbot Arms Talbot Arms, Benville, Nr Evershot, 8pm. The Wurzels presented by Steve Carpenter Ivel FM. Beer and cider festival, hog roast and barbecue. Proceeds to Dorset & Somerset Air Ambulance. Tickets £10 available from the Talbot Arms Benville or Bob's Tyres Crewkerne or telephone 01935 83381.

24 - 26 French Market South Street, Dorchester, from 9am. 'France at Home', a co-operative of market traders based in Rouen in Normandy, will set up roughly 20 varied stalls.

25 Creative Regeneration Workshop at Highway Farm West Road, Bridport. "Championing the Wonders of Nature" with Clare Colby. Lots of creative activity, indulge and be inspired by the wonders of nature! Cost £30 including lunch. Workshops run monthly on a Monday and Saturday from May to October. 01308 424321. www.highwayfarm.co.uk

25 Buddy Holly Show - Lyme Regis Marine Theatre, Church Street, Lyme Regis, 8.30pm. "That'll Be The Day" with Bob Mallett featuring all the Buddy Holly hits. 01297 442138. www.marinetheatre.com

25 Sherborne Antiques & Flea Markets Church Hall & Age Concern Centre, Digby Road, Sherborne, 9am – 4pm. Monthly antiques & flea market. 01963 250108.

25 Gustomarket Mill Lane, Lyme Regis, 10am – 4pm. A selection of excellent locally produced produce to try and buy in the wonderful setting of the ancient Town Mill, Lyme Regis. 01297 443579. www.townmill.org.uk

26 Hemstock Festival Hemlock Farm, West Chelborough, Dorchester, 12.30pm to Midnight. Day of entertainment as a way of giving aid to charities. "Hemstock" will be an event where you will enjoy an eclectric and diverse mix of excellent, musical entertainment provided by a collection of highly talented artisits. Entertainment booked includes The Matadors, Louis Finlay, The Jamie Turner band etc. There will be a large selection of stalls with scrumptious food and refreshing beverages on sale. 01935 83036.

26 Story telling workshops - Lyme Regis Marine Theatre, Church Street, Lyme Regis. Workshops with David Heathfield, 10:30am - 12:30pm; From the West 1:00pm; Pie & A Pint at lunchtime - A gathering for the whole family; The Tale of Ivan. 2:30 to 4:30pm afternoon workshop. 01297 442138. www.marinetheatre.com

26 Guided walk of Cerne Abbas, village & Giant Meet St Mary's Church, Cerne Abbas, 2.30pm. A mile long exploration of this village, famous for its giant, medieval cottages and monastic past. 01300 321010.

26 RNLI Fun Day At West Bay West Bay, Bridport, from 1pm onwards. 01308 424512.

26 Symondsbury Fete 2007 Symondsbury Sports Ground, Symondsbury, Bridport, 12 noon to 6pm. Dorset's largest fete the famous Symondsbury Fete with over 5000 visitors, which will include a Car Boot sale. Admission is only 50p for adults which goes to Cancer Research, and children are free. This year will see the traditional sporting events as well as Piano Smashing, Coconut Shy, Fairground and Golf! Please contact Richard Balson on 01308 422750 for further details or to book a stall.

26 Historic Vehicle Rally Sherborne School Courts (Quadrangle), Abbey Road, Sherborne. 33rd annual historic rally, combining a forty mile road run through the beautiful Dorset countryside returning to the superb setting of Sherborne School courts for concours judging. 01963 250450.

26 Summer Live Action Days at Haynes Motor Museum Haynes Motor Museum, Sparkford, Nr.Yeovil. A fun filled day, including museum exhibit parade, sensational drifting and rally demonstrations, children's activities and dream car rides. 01963 440804. www.haynesmotormuseum.co.uk

26 Tales of the African Diasporai Digby Hall, Hound Street, Sherborne. A multi-media day of music, film and art, open from 1pm with film showings, art exhibition by Taiwo Adiderun and art, music and crafts for sale. Plus - 3pm - lecture by Lekan Babalola, telling the story of African music in the New World and the music it has influenced. Tickets £4, Students free. 7pm - performance of live music to listen and dance to wit the KLLB band who create a sweet juxtaposition of jazz, soul and rhythm. Tickets £10 / Students £5. African and local Dorset Food available throughout the day. Tickets available from Sherborne Tourist Information Centre. 01935 815341.

27 Bank Holiday Organ Recital in Sherborne Abbey Sherborne Abbey, Sherborne, 2.30pm. Recital by Andrew Parnell. 01935 812452. www.sherborneabbey.com

27 Monks, Mitres & Medieval Matters Meet at Sherborne Abbey Porch, 2.30pm. A gentle 1 mile stroll through this wonderful town to include the Almshouses, Abbey and the remains of a great Benedictine Monastery. 01300 321010.

28-30 The Art Buffet Sherborne House, Newland, Sherborne, 1am-1pm and 2pm – 4pm. Open to all under 10s. Come along and make junk sculpture, paint vibrant pictures, draw masterpieces!. Free event – parents/carers will need to stay with their children but are welcome to join in!. 01935 815899 www.sherbornehouse.org.uk/artslink

29 Summer Evening of Music - Lyme Regis Marine Theatre, Church Street, Lyme Regis, 8pm. The great songs from the great shows and great composers, performed by the cream of local artists. An evening to lift your spirits, make your feet tap and send you home with a song in your heart! 01297 442138. www.marinetheatre.com

30-31 Green Kids Sherborne House, Newland, Sherborne, 11am – 1pm. 30^th : Junk puppets with Nina – a fun session learning how to make fantastic eco puppets from recycled materials. 31^st : Eco Kits with Nina – a session of arty crafty fun making bright colourful kits from found materials.

31 Twelfth Night - Lyme Regis Marine Theatre, Church Street, Lyme Regis. Mad Dogs & Englishmen TheatreCompany present Twelfth Night by William Shakespeare directed by Anne Courtney. 01297 442138. www.marinetheatre.com

31 West Bay Wildlife Walk With Tom Brereton Meet at the Salt House, Fisherman's Green, West Bay, 10am. Bridport Museum have organised this walk with local wildlife expert Tom Brereton. He will give a short photographic lecture followed by a guided walk around West Bay. The walk will last around one and a half hours and should be suitable for most fitness levels. Limited places available. To book call 01308 458703. Refreshements available.

We regret the Open Air Classical Proms Concert due to take place at Sherborne Castle on 1^st September has been CANCELLED. Any advance tickets purchased should be returned to the place of purchase for refund.

Also throughout August ……

Music By The sea - Lyme Regis Marine Parade, Lyme Regis. Lyme Regis Town Band present 'Music by the Sea' every Tuesday Summer evening commencing at 8:00pm (to 11^th September)

Antique,Textiles, Collectables & Craft Fair - Lyme Regis Marine Theatre, Church Street, Lyme Regis. Summer weekly fairs featuring porcelain, fine linens & lace, antique & costume jewellery, toys & dolls and much more, Tuesdays 9am - 3pm. 01297 442394. www.marinetheatre.com (to 25^th September)

Light Lunches & Cream Teas at St Candida & Holy Cross Church, Whitchurch Whitchurch Canonicorum, Nr. Bridport, every Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 4pm. Visit the beautiful old church and help to maintain it's future. (to 9^th September)

CHILDREN’S SUMMER ACTIVITIES

For details of children’s play schemes taking place during the Summer holidays call into one of our TICs., for example, Arstreach have a lovely programme of creative holiday activities for young people in various venues around Dorset throughout August.

NGS GARDENS OPEN

Pick up a free copy of the Dorset "yellow book" from one of our Tourist Information Centres for details of local gardens opening under the National Gardens Scheme this year

ADVANCE TICKETS

Advance tickets for the following events (in some caes making a considerable saving on gate prices) are available from our TICs:

The Modern Guitar Trio at Eype 4^th August Bridport

Spirit of the Countryside – Lulworth 11^th – 12^th August Dorchester

Gillingham & Shaftesbury Show 16^th August Sherborne

Judy Shire & Her Band, Athelhampton 19^th August Bridport, Dorchester

Melplash Show 23^rd August Bridport, Dorchester

Midsummers Night Dream, Minterne House 24^th August Dorchester, Sherborne

Milton Abbey Music Festival 24^h-28⁷ August Dorchester

Great Dorset Steam Fair 29^th August – 2nd September Bridport, Dorchester, Lyme Regis, Sherborne

Dorset County Show, Dorchester 1^st – 2^nd September` Bridport, Dorchester, Lyme Regis, Sherborne

National Amateur Gardening Show 31^st August – 2^nd September Bridport, Dorchester, Sherborne

An Evening of Clairvoyance, Corn Exchange 5^th September Dorchester

Lulworth Medieval Festival 8^th – 9^th September Dorchester

Marine Theatre Events Various Lyme Regis

Also enquire about tickets and vouchers for various local attractions.

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