Lifeguards back in town

THE sunshine may have disappeared for the time being, but summer is certainly here.

We know that because the RNLI lifeguards have arrived on Lyme Regis beach for the fourth year running and will ensure the safety of hundreds of holiday makers over the next couple of months.

With last week’s soaring temperatures, the lifeguards got off to a busy start.

All are trained in beach and sea rescue, first aid and can deal with minor to serious injuries, as well as helping lost children and giving out beach and safety information.

The guards will be on duty and happy to help in the lifeguard hut on Lyme’s main beach, everyday from 10 am to 6 pm until September.

I know some people think it’s a waste of money having lifeguards in Lyme because our beach is so safe.

But their presence must be reassuring for the visitors and they also provide quite a valuable information service as well as dealing with minor accidents on the beach.

They are now firmly established as part of Lyme’s summer scene.

Music by the sea

BATHED in glorious sunshine, Marine Parade was the perfect setting for the first of Lyme Regis Town Band’s summer 'Music by the Sea' concerts last Tuesday evening.

The evening concerts will continue every Tuesday throughout July and August, with extra entertainment on some Sunday afternoons from 2.30pm.

Full details of times and dates can be found on the band’s website, www.lymeregistownband.co.uk.

One of the highlights of the band’s summer season will be a visit from the Wantage Silver Band, who will join them in a joint concert on August 24th.

Not to be missed!

Race For Life

FOR those who are wondering, I managed to complete the 5km Race For Life in 40 minutes on Sunday morning alongside my friend Phoebe Jones, from Seaton.

It was boiling hot in Exeter, so not the best conditions for a run, and I have to admit I’m feeling a little stiff this week, but I’m still proud I took part with thousands of other women.

I raised a total £127 for Cancer Research UK. Thanks to everyone who sponsored and supported me!

Events of the week

TWO great events over the weekend - the successful Talbot Arms Beer Festival and the Football Club dinner.

After running Race For Life on Sunday morning, my friend and I decided to treat ourselves to a hog roast and jug of Pimm’s in the Talbot’s beer garden, and ended up staying all evening dancing to local band Papa Le Gal.

The festival was packed-out with a great atmosphere and brilliant entertainment.

A real traditional West Country event and one I’ll be looking forward to next year.

Papa La Gal are in big demand this summer and they also appeared at the football club’s annual dinner and presentation night at the Golf Club on Friday evening.

It was a great night with all the players in celebratory mood after one of their best seasons ever.

Highlight of the proceedings was the arrival of former England, West Ham and Everton striker Tony Cottee, the club’s patron, who travelled down from London to present all the trophies.

He also did an impromptu question and answer session in which he had some very strong opinions about England’s World Cup flop.

Five things to do this weekend...

1 Show off your green fingers – There are plenty of prizes up for grabs for top flower displays, vegetables and other produce at Uplyme and Lyme Regis Horticultural Society’s annual summer Show at the King George V Playing Field on Saturday. If you don’t want to enter, there’s also a dog show, children’s races and plenty of other activities.

2 Watch a one-man show – Bill Giles, who led the BBC weather team for 17 years, will give his humorous outlook on his career and current issues, such as global warming, at the Marine Theatre on Saturday evening. For more information visit www.marinetheatre.com

3 Rock out to a classic – Veteran rock ‘n’ roller John Otway, famed for his 1977 hit 'Cor Baby That’s Really Free,' will star at the Woodmead Halls on Saturday night as part of the Legends Return to Lyme series organised by Lyme Regis TV. Tickets available from the Tourist Information Centre, Focus, Broad Street, or on the door.

4 Take an early morning walk - Lyme is at its best in early morning and a brisk walk along the Marine Parade and around the Cobb before the town comes to life shows how lucky we are to be able to spend our summer in such a beautiful setting.

5 Visit Lyme’s award winning museum - Popular with visitors, it’s surprising how many local people have never been inside the town museum. Lyme has a rich and colourful history - and it’s all to see in the unique building next to the Guildhall.

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