National Theatre Live’s cinema release of The Fifth Step offers audiences across the UK the chance to see one of the most talked-about plays of the past year - and it more than earns the big-screen treatment.

David Ireland’s tense, darkly funny, and at times unsettling two-hander is powered by two remarkable performances from Jack Lowden and Martin Freeman, captured with an intimacy that feels almost uncomfortably close in the best possible way.

The production, which originally premiered at last years’s Edinburgh Festival, draws the audience inside the fragile, shifting dynamic between Luka (Lowden), a volatile newcomer to Alcoholics Anonymous, and James (Freeman), the seemingly composed sponsor guiding him through the 12-step programme. NT Live’s cameras heighten the claustrophobia: every twitch, every silence, every evasive glance is magnified.

The story centres on the approach to Step 5 - the moment of confession - yet Ireland uses that framework to explore far more: masculinity, shame, faith, loneliness and the subtle power imbalances that sit beneath well-meaning relationships.

Luka’s opening line, “I think I might be an incel”, lands with a jolt and sets in motion a series of conversations that teeter between outrage, hilarity and emotional honesty.

Lowden’s performance is extraordinary -nervy, combustible, heartbreaking. Critics have repeatedly highlighted how he creates a character both “volatile and vulnerable”, and on camera his intensity becomes even more compelling. Every flicker of panic, every flash of bravado feels dangerously real.

Freeman, meanwhile, gives one of his most complex performances in years. Described by reviewers as “superbly slippery” and carrying “a terrifying burden of suppressed anger”, he plays James with a soft-spoken charm that gradually fractures. NT Live’s close-ups allow the audience to see the cracks forming long before Luka does.

Ireland’s writing - long admired for its provocative humour and moral discomfort - is sharply delivered here. The play’s blend of absurdity, ribald comedy and moments of quiet spirituality comes across with even greater precision in the filmed version. At times, it’s laugh-out-loud funny; at others, painfully exposing. That balance between scepticism and sincerity is one of the production’s greatest achievements.

Director Finn den Hertog’s staging in the round works beautifully on screen. NT Live often excels with productions that hinge on actor-led performances, and this recording is no exception. The stripped-back set, the careful lighting and the minimal sound design all contribute to a sense that the audience is eavesdropping on something they perhaps shouldn’t be hearing.

Not all of Ireland’s tonal shifts land perfectly, and some of the more explosive moments feel deliberately muted. But the flaws are minor, and the cumulative effect is powerful: two men grappling with the stories they tell themselves, and the truths they’re afraid to voice aloud.

Ultimately, The Fifth Step on screen is as taut, funny and bruisingly compassionate as it was on stage. It’s a piece that refuses to offer simple answers, but instead sits with the awkward, human messiness of addiction, faith and the longing to be understood.

For those who missed the live production, this National Theatre Live recording is a superb - and unmissable - way to experience it.

( Photos courtesy of NFT Live 📸 )

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A new café with a Mad Hatter’s tea party theme has opened in Ilminster at The Somerset Phoenix Studios, taking over the space once occupied by a bakery.

The venue has been relaunched as Café Fou by chef and entrepreneur Simon Conroy (pictured), who held a soft launch on 20th August as part of his company Red Moon Events. He said the first day “went well” and that he is adjusting to running the business while looking forward to its future.

When speaking to local reporters, Simon admitted, “It’s scary, of course it’s scary. There are a lot of unknowns; there’s a lot riding on it. The town centre needs this particular coffee shop. The whole idea of a soft launch is to find out where the snags are and iron them out. It’s treading a fine line, so who knows what’s going to happen, but we hope to draw people in.”

Explaining the name, he said, “The word Fou means mad, which is the whole theme of the café. It’s a tea party here.”

The choice of name also has a personal meaning, as it reminds Simon of working with his brothers in a London restaurant called Fou.

Hospitality is in the family: Simon has been a chef since the 1990s, both his brothers also work as chefs, his grandfather was a chef in the army and his daughter is a pastry chef. “It’s kind of in the blood,” he said.

Reflecting on how he came to South Somerset, Simon explained, “During Covid, everyone ran from London.” After relocating, he worked at Dillington briefly and helped to set up two cafés in Ilminster before the chance came to launch Café Fou.

“I wanted to take what I learnt somewhere big and put it somewhere small and do it with my own money,” he said. “You can’t look a gift horse in the mouth, so I jumped on the opportunity. Being adjacent to a fashion house in what is going to become a destination in this area. It’s too good an opportunity to miss, so I bit the bullet.”

By blending culinary experience with a distinctive theme, Café Fou is positioning itself as a unique addition to Ilminster’s town centre and a new draw for both locals and visitors.

( Images: Simon Conroy / Facebook 📸 )

Libraries Unlimited, with support from Devon County Council, has introduced hands-on LEGO® robotics and coding workshops in libraries across Devon and Torbay, funded through the Library Improvement Fund from Arts Council England.

The initiative brings LEGO® robotics and coding experiences to libraries in Exeter, Paignton, Newton Abbot, and Barnstaple. As part of the ‘Devon Digital Creator’ project, the investment in STEM (spell this out) technology aims to boost digital skills and creativity through engaging and accessible activities.

LEGO® robotics are sets that combine building blocks with programmable electronic components, allowing anyone age 6+ to build whatever they want and then code it to perform functions. Inspiring imaginations and challenging minds, it allows children a route in to Science, Technology, Engineering & Maths (STEM) through play, socialisation and teamwork.

Over the past year, hundreds of people have taken part in the hands-on workshops. One parent said, “The children have thoroughly enjoyed the LEGO experience. It was great to see them coding and cultivating a love of STEM. Thank you so much. Highly recommend!”

As a result of this success, Libraries Unlimited has secured additional support, including LEGO® League kits from the Institute of Engineering and Technology, and further LEGO® sets through the Reading Agency’s Reading Sparks programme. These resources will support ongoing coding clubs like CoderDojo Exmouth and enable summer activities tied in to library reading challenges.

Councillor Cheryl Cottle-Hunkin, Devon County Council’s Cabinet Member with responsibility for libraries, said: "This initiative is brilliant. LEGO is a classic toy which has captured enjoyment through generations. These LEGO robotics projects will teach hands-on coding skills that I’m sure will spark an interest to learn more!

"Who knows what it could lead to, I bet even senior specialists in tech companies started small on projects like these when they were children, firing their imagination and creativity and helping spur them into the career paths they chose.

"It's really worth keeping an eye on what's going on in our local libraries, there are so many things for people of all ages; libraries mean so much more than books, they are inspiring educational and community hubs!”

Alex Kittow, Chief Executive, Libraries Unlimited, said: "This funding and the initiatives we’ve delivered has made an incredible difference to libraries and communities across Devon and Torbay. It’s wonderful to have the opportunity to change people’s perception of what a library is and to develop our programme of STEM engagement and activities for children, families and adults alike. I’ve been inspired and humbled to see how the children's confidence, skills, friendships and ability to play transforms over the course of a LEGO coding session.”

Libraries Unlimited plans to continue building on this momentum, exploring new ways to empower local communities through technology, learning, and innovation.

( Photos: LEGO 📸 )

Shoppers across the UK are being urged to check their cupboards and freezers after a series of urgent product recalls were announced by major supermarkets, including Lidl, Tesco, Iceland and others.

The Food Standards Agency (FSA) has issued “do not eat” warnings over a range of items due to undeclared allergens, contamination risks and, in one case, the possible presence of insects.

The recalls affect products sold nationwide, with the FSA stressing that certain foods could pose serious health risks to those with allergies or intolerances - and in some cases to the general public.

Lidl – Red Hen Tempura Chicken Steaks

Lidl GB is recalling 380g packs of Red Hen Tempura Chicken Steaks because they contain milk which is not highlighted in bold on the label, breaching allergy labelling rules.
This makes them a possible health risk for anyone with a milk allergy or intolerance.

Affected best before dates:

• 11th December 2026

• 16th December 2026

• 22nd December 2026

• 30th December 2026

• 17th January 2027

Customers are advised not to eat the product if allergic to milk and to return it to the store for a full refund.

Tesco – Free From Katsu Curry Meal Kit

Tesco has recalled all batches of its Free From Katsu Curry Meal Kit with a best before date up to and including 12th December, due to undeclared soya. This poses a health risk to anyone with a soya allergy.

Refunds are available in-store, and allergy organisations have been informed.

Neosis Schokolade Love of Dubai Chocolate

The FSA has issued a national Food Alert for Action for all 95g packs of this chocolate after undeclared peanuts were found.
This poses a serious risk to anyone with a peanut allergy.

Businesses selling the product have been told to stop sales immediately. The chocolate is manufactured by NEOSIS, Gida ve Unlu Mam Ltd, and distributed by Black Sea Trading Ltd, which has so far been uncontactable.

Woodstock Vanilla Crème Crowns

Woodstock Foods is recalling its 12 x 50g Vanilla Crème Crowns (batch code 224934, best before January 2026) due to undeclared hazelnuts. These pastries are a danger to anyone with a nut allergy.

Refunds are available in-store, and point-of-sale notices will be displayed.

Unilever – Wall’s Mini Milk Ice Lollies

Strawberry and chocolate flavour Mini Milk lollies have been recalled because allergens - including milk, pistachios, peanuts and soya - are not labelled in English.

Affected batch codes: L5123, L5126, L5127, L5128, L5129, L5141, L5142.

This makes them a risk to people with allergies to any of the listed ingredients.

Iceland – Vegetable Lasagne

Iceland is recalling its Vegetable Lasagne (best before 23rd July 2026 and 30th July 2026) because it may contain pieces of hard plastic, making it unsafe to eat.

Customers are urged to return the product for a full refund.

Rude Health Chocolate Crunch Granola

Rude Health Foods Ltd is recalling its 400g Chocolate Crunch Granola (best before 24th October) due to the possible presence of insects.
The product is sold by Tesco, Ocado, Amazon and other retailers.

What to Do if You Have an Affected Product

• Do not eat the product, especially if you have the relevant allergy.

• Return it to the store where you bought it for a full refund.

• For allergy-related recalls, you can also contact the manufacturer or supermarket’s customer care team for further guidance.

About Product Recalls

A food product may be withdrawn (removed from sale) or recalled (customers asked to return it) if it poses a risk to health.
The FSA issues public notices and, in serious cases, Food Alerts for Action, directing local authorities on enforcement measures.

( Images: Unsplash / FSA 📸 )

The Honiton Show will return to East Devon this Thursday, 7th August, promising a full day of rural celebration, agricultural excellence, and family entertainment.

Now in its 134th year, the popular event is expected to draw as many as 20,000 visitors to the 140-acre Honiton Showground at Stockers Farm in Gittisham.

Organised by the Honiton & District Agricultural Association, the show is recognised as one of the largest of its kind in the country. This year’s theme, ‘Where Farming Comes First’, highlights the event’s continued focus on showcasing the best of British agriculture.

Around 1,000 livestock entries will feature in competitions throughout the day, representing a wide variety of breeds.

In addition to the farming displays, the show will host the West of England Hound Show, the second largest event of its kind nationally, with packs attending from across the region.

New and returning attractions include a motorcycle stunt display, an equestrian performance act, and a broad programme of entertainment for families and children.

Children under 16 enter free when accompanied by an adult, and can enjoy traditional fun including Punch and Judy performances, a dancing sheep show, and carousel rides. A stilt walker will also be entertaining the crowds.

Vintage machinery enthusiasts will appreciate the display of more than 100 vintage tractors and 50 classic cars, offering a nostalgic look at farming and motoring history.

Food and drink will be in abundance, with local produce available to sample and purchase, along with chef demonstrations throughout the day.

The showground offers free public parking, and a free shuttle bus will operate from Honiton High Street to make access easier for visitors.

Dogs are welcome on non-retractable leads, though they are not permitted in the food hall or livestock areas.

Tickets cost £22 on the gate or £20 if booked online in advance. The event will run from 8.00am until 6.00pm.

The Honiton & District Agricultural Association is a registered charity and uses proceeds from the show to support a variety of local agricultural and educational causes.

Further information can be found at www.honitonshow.co.uk

( Photos: Honiton & District Show / Facebook 📸 )

Renowned chef and broadcaster Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall is set to appear at an exclusive charity fundraiser this September, in support of the local organisation Project Food.

The event will take place at the private estate of Netherton Hall in Colyton on Thursday, 25th September. Guests will enjoy an evening of canapés, drinks, and engaging conversation in a stunning setting.

The highlight of the evening will be a live discussion between Fearnley-Whittingstall and Project Food’s Chief Executive, Tiggy Parry, focusing on the increasingly urgent issue of food poverty in the UK - an area both the chef and the charity are deeply committed to addressing.

Project Food is a local charity that works to help people eat more healthily and live better lives, particularly those facing hardship. All proceeds from the evening will go directly towards supporting families in need.

The event will begin at 6.30pm, and tickets are priced at £75 per person. Tickets can be purchased via the Project Food website: project-food.org.uk. For further information, contact Kerry at kerry@project-food.org.uk or phone 01297 631782.

( Photo: Getty Images 📸 )

Little Beeches Nursery in Crewkerne has been praised by Ofsted for its joyful atmosphere, strong teaching and caring staff. The nursery was rated ‘Good’ in all areas following an inspection by the government office for standards in education.

The nursery, based at Maiden Beech Primary Academy, opened in 2022 and currently has 44 children aged one to four. It offers full-day care from 7.30am to 5.30pm, Monday to Friday, all year round except bank holidays and Christmas.

Inspectors said: “Children happily enter the nursery, eager and excited. Friendly, enthusiastic staff greet them.” The report praised staff for creating a “safe and stimulating environment” where children “develop a true sense of belonging”.

The curriculum was described as “ambitious and well structured”. Children were seen enjoying learning activities such as sorting coloured counters to explore numbers, or using shape sorters to develop problem-solving skills. The report said staff “carefully considered the sequence in which children develop their skills”.

Communication and language are a key focus. Younger children joined in with “song and rhyme sessions”, choosing props and copying actions. Older children showed interest in stories and listening activities.

The nursery also supports physical development, from babies using play dough and crayons to older children practising balance and coordination. Children are encouraged to be independent, pouring their own drinks and choosing snacks. Inspectors noted that “they manage their self-care effectively, which prepares them well for school”.

Parents were full of praise. The report said: “Parents express great satisfaction with the care and support provided by staff, as well as the substantial progress their children make.” Staff work closely with families to match home routines and share learning goals.

Emotional development, especially for babies, was another strength. “Babies thoroughly enjoy the close relationships they have with familiar staff. They smile as they snuggle their key person,” said the report.

Leaders were praised for supporting staff and encouraging teamwork. Newer staff are mentored and all receive regular feedback to help them improve.

One area for improvement was large group activities, where some children lost focus. Inspectors said: “Staff do not support children during larger group activities as well as they could.”

The nursery’s safeguarding was judged to be effective, with staff clear on their duties. Of the 16 staff, 11 hold a Level 3 childcare qualification. One holds Level 6 and another Level 2. The nursery also offers funded places for two-, three- and four-year-olds.

Ofsted concluded that children at Crewkerne’s Little Beeches are happy, well cared for, and learning well thanks to strong leadership and a dedicated team.

( Photos: Little Beeches Nursery, Crewkerne 📸 )

Two internationally acclaimed opera singers are set to bring an afternoon of folk melodies and magical arias to Crewkerne this summer.

Dorset-born soprano Roma Loukes, currently based at the Stockholm Royal Opera, will perform alongside Swedish tenor Mikael Onelius on Sunday 27th July at South Somerset Music Centre.

Both singers (pictured) trained at the Birmingham Conservatoire and the Stockholm Opera Studio, with Onelius also holding credits at Garsington Opera and Buxton Opera Festival.

The concert programme promises a mix of charm and drama, featuring folk song favourites such as O Danny Boy and Down by the Salley Gardens, alongside classics from the world of opera including Habanera from Carmen, the Papageno–Papagena duet from The Magic Flute, and Song to the Moon from Rusalka.

The performance, taking place in the South Street venue, will run from 3.00pm to 4.30pm, with two 40-minute halves and a short interval.

Tickets are available online at southsomersetmusiccentre.co.uk and cost £15 for premium seats, £12 standard, with free entry for under-16s.

For more information, contact 01460 594464 or 07719 187508, or email contact@southsomersetmusiccentre.co.uk

( Photo: South Somerset Music Centre 📸 )

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has issued a fresh warning urging millions of people receiving State Pension, Universal Credit, Personal Independence Payment (PIP), and other benefits to remain vigilant amid a rise in scam text messages designed to steal personal and financial information.

The alert comes as online fraudsters continue to exploit the cost of living crisis, impersonating government bodies such as the DWP and HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) to trick vulnerable individuals into handing over sensitive details.

In a message posted on its official social media channels, the DWP warned: “Be aware of scam text messages claiming to be from @DWPgovuk. Always be careful about links and never share personal or financial details. Only engage with trusted, official sources.”

The warning applies to the 23.7 million people across Great Britain who currently receive at least one benefit from the DWP, including Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA), Attendance Allowance, and the contributory State Pension. Fraudsters have reportedly been sending texts about “unclaimed payments” or offering bogus application links for schemes such as the Winter Fuel Payment and Warm Home Discount.

The DWP stressed that genuine Winter Fuel Payments are issued automatically and do not require an application. Links sent via text message should be treated with caution, as official departments do not request claims in this manner.

Security experts advise recipients to avoid clicking on suspicious links and never to disclose bank details or passwords through unsolicited messages. Signs of a scam can include poor grammar, a sense of urgency, or unfamiliar sender information.

People are also being encouraged to check their bank statements regularly and to contact their bank immediately if any suspicious activity occurs. Most major banks now offer app-based features to freeze cards instantly in the event of suspected fraud.

If in doubt, claimants should contact the DWP or HMRC directly using official phone numbers listed on GOV.UK. Messages that seem out of character or too good to be true should always be treated with suspicion.

The government is urging anyone who receives a suspicious message to report it through the “report phishing” service on GOV.UK. Search: ‘avoid and report internet scams and phishing’.

With impersonation scams on the rise, especially those targeting older or vulnerable groups, the DWP’s message is simple: stay alert, question the source, and don’t click unless you’re sure.

( Image: Gov.uk 📸 )

Holyrood Academy PTFA and Chard Community Hub are inviting residents of Chard and the surrounding area to a fun-filled summer event on Saturday, 28th June.

The ‘Rain or Shine’ event will take place at Holyrood Academy on Zembard Lane from 9.00am until midday and promises a lively morning of free activities, entertainment, and community spirit - come rain or shine.

A free breakfast will be served in the Bennett Building between 9.00am and 11.00am, offering a warm welcome to all who attend. Meanwhile, bargain hunters and sellers alike can take part in a car boot sale, with set-up from 8.00am.

No booking is necessary, and pitches cost just £5 per space.

The morning’s entertainment will include dance performances showcasing local talent, as well as a range of family-friendly attractions.

Children can enjoy a bouncy castle and face painting, while local groups and organisations will be running interactive stalls and activities.

Refreshments will also be available to purchase on site.

A volunteer from Chard Community Hub said: “This event is all about bringing the community together, giving families the chance to enjoy free activities, and supporting the Holyrood PTFA.”

The event is open to everyone and offers a great opportunity to connect with local people, enjoy some free entertainment, and support a good cause.

For more details, contact holyroodptfa@gmail.com or telephone 07855 447149.

(Images supplied by Holyrood Academy PTFA 📸 )

Axminster is celebrating a proud moment after two of its most valued institutions were recognised at the South West Prestige Awards.

The town’s much-loved Guildhall has been named Best Community Event Venue in Devon, while Pulman’s Weekly News, which has served the area since 1857, has once again been awarded News Publication of the Year.

The awards, which recognise excellence across a wide range of independent organisations in the region, highlight the strength of Axminster’s community spirit and the continued relevance of its local services.

Axminster Guildhall has long served as a hub for the town’s cultural and social life, hosting everything from theatre and music performances to community meetings and private events. The award judges commended the Guildhall for its welcoming environment, consistent programme of events, and the dedication of the volunteers who help run it.

A spokesperson for Axminster Guildhall said the recognition was a reflection of the commitment shown by all involved. “This award is a tribute to the hard work of our team and the local community who support what we do. For the people of Axminster, it confirms what many already knew: the Guildhall is far more than just a building - it is a living, breathing part of the town’s identity.”

Many local residents took to social media to share their support and congratulations. Karen Hussey wrote, “Congratulations and thank you for all the hard work you put in to bring entertainment to Axminster.” Matt Young added, “Well done to everyone involved. Fantastic news and well deserved!” Beverley McAuley commented, “Well done everyone! And rightly deserved! You’ve done an amazing job of bringing the Guildhall to life again.”

Pulman’s Weekly News also received high praise for its continued service to the region, securing the News Publication of the Year title for a consecutive year.

Established in 1857 by local publisher George Philip Pulman, the historic regional news brand has remained a constant source of news and information for communities across East Devon.

Devon-born proprietor Duncan Williams (pictured on the mic) told the gathered judges that the award reflected the paper’s long-standing commitment to regional journalism. “Independent local news is essential to keeping a community informed,” he said. “It helps protect local interests and keeps people connected to what’s happening around them.”

Williams, who has spent much of his career in the news industry and has personally driven the investment in digital technology to bring Pulman’s Weekly News into the modern era, says his belief in the value of reliable local journalism remains as strong as ever. “The media landscape has evolved rapidly, but one thing hasn’t changed - people still want honest, accurate, and relevant news,” he said. “We want to understand what’s happening in our community - not just surface stories, but coverage of issues that shape our daily lives. That’s why having a trusted local news source is more important now than ever.”

The recognition for both the Guildhall and Pulman’s Weekly News is seen as a positive reflection of Axminster’s strong community identity and its continued support for local institutions.

These awards serve not just as accolades, but as a reminder of the importance of local engagement, participation, and long-term investment.

Axminster Guildhall is gearing up for an exciting evening of family entertainment this Sunday, 1st June, with a special screening of The Minecraft Movie - a must-see event for fans of the beloved video game.

The action-packed, animated film promises a thrilling adventure through the iconic blocky world of Minecraft, featuring a mysterious portal, four unlikely heroes, and a journey full of building, battling, and surprises.

Perfect for children and adults alike, the film brings the digital Overworld to life on the big screen.

🎬 Event Details:

• Venue: Axminster Guildhall, West Street, EX13 5NX

• Doors Open: 5.00pm

• Film Starts: 5.30pm

• Approx. Finish: 7.11pm

🎟️ Ticket Prices:

• Adults: £5

• Children: £4

• Family Ticket (2 adults, 2 children): £15

• Tickets available online or on the door: www.axminster-guildhall.co.uk

Axminster Guildhall invites all local families to come along, grab some popcorn, and enjoy a fun-filled movie night packed with humour, heart, and pixelated adventure.

Whether you're a Minecraft expert or a curious newcomer, this block-busting evening promises something for everyone.

Don't miss it!

Honiton Golf Club has celebrated a rare achievement - 40 years of dedicated service from long-standing greenkeeper Chris Locke.

Chris joined the club in 1985 and has since become a familiar and much-respected figure, known for his early starts at 6.00am, his quiet dedication, and his steady presence throughout the years.

Described by the club as a “quiet, hardworking presence”, Chris has earned praise for his “steady commitment and good humour”, which have made him a “much-loved figure around the club”.

Club chairman Mike Drew said: “It’s not often you see someone dedicate 40 years to one place. Chris has done it with humility, consistency, and a smile - even when he hears ‘Will you come and cut my grass?’ for the sixth time that day. He always takes it in his stride, like it’s the first time he’s heard it.”

Head greenkeeper Stuart Broom added: “Chris has witnessed many changes in greenkeeping over the years, and embraced them all with passion.

“His knowledge of the land here at Honiton is second to none and he is always on hand when we are trying to locate old drains and irrigation lines.

“He is a great link between the team and the membership, ensuring that we preserve the club’s traditional values.

“His attention to detail and pride in his work have been essential in earning Honiton Golf Club a reputation as one of East Devon’s premier Parkland Golf Courses.”

The club said Mr Locke’s career is a “rare and admirable example of long-term dedication”.

Chris’s milestone has been marked with warmth and admiration from all corners of the club - a fitting tribute to four decades of care, commitment, and keeping these outstanding East Devon golfing greens in tip-top shape.

( Photos: Honiton Golf Club 📸 )

Golfers gathered in glorious sunshine at Lyme Regis Golf Club on Saturday, 10th May, to take part in a charity open raising over £1,000 for the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI).

The RNLI Golf Open, now a regular fixture in the club’s calendar, drew 75 competitors including 35 visiting players from across the South West and as far afield as Reading. Played in a 3-ball format, the competition offered participants the chance to enjoy the club’s renowned course, set against the stunning backdrop of Lyme Bay and blessed with a light easterly breeze.

This year’s winning team comprised Adrian Howard from Cricket St Thomas Golf Club, Simon Part of Lyme Regis Golf Club, and Scott Clarke representing Axe Cliff Golf Club.

Speaking after the event, Lyme Regis Golf Club Chairman, Ken Lavery, said:
“We are very happy to support the RNLI by hosting this open event. We hope the competitors have enjoyed their round and have returned good scores. We certainly had great weather for today’s competition.”

As part of the day’s hospitality, players were treated to refreshments at the ‘halfway house’, kindly served by members of the local lifeboat crew. A barbecue meal on the clubhouse patio brought the event to a sociable close before the prize-giving ceremony.

Volunteer lifeboat helm and event organiser Jon Broome expressed his thanks, stating:
“We are very grateful to Lyme Regis Golf Club for hosting this charity open competition. We would also like to thank the committees of Dorset Golf and Country Club, Honiton, Cricket St Thomas, Axe Cliff and Lyme Regis Golf Clubs for their generous donation of raffle prizes, and to Seaton Tesco and Complete Meats of Axminster for donating provisions for the halfway house refreshment bar.”

The RNLI is a charity that relies on voluntary donations and legacies to support its vital work saving lives at sea. With over 238 lifeboat stations across the UK and Ireland and a network of lifeguard units on popular beaches, the RNLI’s dedicated volunteers provide a 24-hour search and rescue service year-round.

Find out more about the work of the RNLI here : www.rnli.org

( Photos: Lyme Regis Golf Club 📸 )

A much-loved Axminster pub has reopened its doors following a six-figure refurbishment, ushering in a new chapter for one of the town’s most historic venues. The Red Lion Inn on Lyme Street, which has served the community since 1857, welcomed back patrons on Wednesday 7th May under the management of new operator Lee Marsden.

The extensive renovation has breathed new life into the 168-year-old establishment, blending modern features with the traditional character that has made the Red Lion a staple of Axminster life for generations.

Inside, the pub has been completely redecorated, and a state-of-the-art audio-visual system installed to elevate the experience for sports fans. Multiple HD televisions, supported by new Sky Q boxes, now allow the Red Lion to screen Sky Sports, TNT Sports, Premier Sports, Amazon Prime fixtures and more - all at the same time - making it a go-to destination for live sport in the area.

Alongside the technology upgrade, the interior now features a professional-standard darts area, part of a wider redesign aimed at enhancing the pub’s social and sporting appeal. Outside, the Red Lion has been given a fresh look with new festoon lighting and furniture, creating a welcoming space for customers day and night. The pub remains dog-friendly and continues to be a favourite among walkers and locals stopping in for a pint with their pets.

Operator Lee Marsden said the reaction from the community has already been overwhelmingly positive. “We've loved reopening our doors to welcome both new and familiar faces back to The Red Lion Inn,” he said. “The refurbishment has strengthened our reputation as the go-to spot for watching live sport, and our packed events schedule means there’s always a reason to visit and enjoy a drink with us. Thanks to a six-figure investment, we’ve created a more inviting, vibrant space for the whole community to enjoy. It's been great seeing everyone experiencing all the fantastic new features as we begin this exciting new chapter.”

The Red Lion is also expanding its role as a social hub for Axminster, with a lively weekly events calendar featuring traditional pub games, quiz nights, darts competitions and live music. Friday nights bring back the ever-popular meat raffle, followed by DJ sets that run late into the evening. Weekends are packed with live sport and performances from local musical talent, further cementing the pub’s role as a central gathering place in the town.

Alongside entertainment, the Red Lion offers a carefully curated drinks menu featuring a wide range of beers, ciders and wines, as well as an extensive selection of no and low-alcohol options to cater for all tastes and preferences.

Stonegate Group, the pub company behind the investment, said the reopening of the Red Lion will bring renewed energy to Axminster and restore a treasured venue to its full potential.

The Royal British Legion Crewkerne Branch is set to host a day of family-friendly festivities on Saturday, 10th May 2025, to commemorate the 80th anniversary of VE Day. The event will take place at Severalls War Memorial Green from 10.45am to 3.00pm.

Visitors can look forward to tea, coffee, cakes, and refreshments from the Scouts' Burger Bar, alongside a variety of local stalls. Attendees are encouraged to embrace the spirit of the era by dressing in 1940s attire for the fancy dress competitions, open to both adults and children.

Live music will be provided by The Phoenix Band and The Poppettes, creating a nostalgic atmosphere throughout the day.

A short commemorative service and wreath laying, led by the Branch Chaplain, the Rev Andrew, will be held at 11.00am.

This event promises to be a meaningful and enjoyable occasion for all, as the community comes together to remember, reflect, and celebrate this significant moment in history.

Reform UK has emerged as the standout winner in England’s 2025 local elections, gaining 677 councillors across 23 councils - a remarkable achievement for a party that previously had no representation in those areas. The party now controls ten councils, including several formerly held by the Conservatives and Labour.

The Lib Dems' also achieved wins in Shropshire, and parts of the South and South West of England.

Mainstream parties lose ground

Both the Conservative and Labour parties recorded some of their worst local election results in history. The Conservatives lost 674 councillors and control of all fifteen councils they held before the vote. Labour fared little better, losing 187 seats and failing to retain a majority in any council.

Political analysts point to widespread public frustration with both major parties, driven by economic pressures, the rising cost of living, and perceived stagnation in national leadership. The BBC’s projected national share suggests that, combined, Labour and the Conservatives would receive just 35% of the vote - a record low for the two-party system.

Liberal Democrats and Greens on the rise

While Reform dominated headlines, the Liberal Democrats also made significant gains, increasing their total to 370 councillors - a rise of 163 - and securing control of Cambridgeshire, Oxfordshire, and Shropshire. The Green Party more than doubled its representation, winning 79 seats - a net gain of 44 - pointing to growing public concern around environmental and sustainability issues.

A strategic win for Reform UK

In Devon, Reform has claimed its first seat on Exeter City Council.

The party's s messaging on immigration, public service reform, and national identity appears to have resonated with disaffected voters, particularly in former Conservative strongholds such as Staffordshire, Kent, and Lancashire.

Reform also secured both of the newly created mayoral posts: in Greater Lincolnshire and Hull & East Yorkshire.

Andrea Jenkyns, who defected from the Conservatives in 2024, was elected as Greater Lincolnshire’s first mayor with 42% of the vote.

By-election shock in Runcorn and Helsby

Adding to the drama, Reform narrowly captured the Runcorn and Helsby Westminster by-election by just six votes – the slimmest margin recorded in recent history - unseating Labour in a seat it had hoped to retain.

( Photo: Pixabay Library 📸 )

Chard, in South Somerset, is set to sparkle with the sound of classic pop as the 'Always Elton Tribute Show' arrives in town on Saturday 14th June. Hosted at the Holyrood Academy Upper Site Hall, the event promises an unforgettable night of entertainment, all in support of the Chard Community Hub.

Running from 6.00pm to 11.00pm, the show will feature one of the UK’s leading Elton John tribute acts, delivering pitch-perfect renditions of hits such as 'Rocket Man', 'Tiny Dancer' and 'Your Song'. Supporting on the night will be local favourites 'The Reservoir Dogs', bringing even more energy to an evening designed for music lovers of all ages.

The family-friendly event includes a reduced ticket price for under-16s, making it an accessible night out for all generations. Attendees can enjoy a fully licensed bar, festival-style food and a BBQ available throughout the evening.

Tickets are available by scanning the QR code found on posters displayed across the town. For more information, attendees can email mparfoot@holyrood.bep.ac or call 01460 923149.

All proceeds from the night will go to the Chard Community Hub. Founded in 2021, the Hub provides a welcoming and inclusive space for local residents, offering drop-in support, community events and a wide range of group activities. It works closely with agencies across housing, health, education, policing and mental health to support those in need.

Over the past year, more than 2,000 people have benefited from the Hub’s services, which include arts and crafts sessions, playgroups, a repair hub, a silent book club, and more.

Megan Parfoot, representing the Hub, highlighted the importance of events like this in keeping the initiative alive: “At Chard Community Hub we are independently funded, meaning all of our finances are through grants, donations and fundraising. Events like these are really important to make sure we can continue supporting people in Chard. We are all extremely excited about this event, so please come along and enjoy a night of great music whilst raising money for a good cause.”

( Images supplied by Holyrood Academy 📸 )