Parish NewsThe Parish Church of St Peter & St Paul, UplymeMarch 2026Palm Sunday29th MarchMothers Day Sunday 15th March
Worship in Uplyme Church: March & Early April 2026MarchSun 1st 10am Together@Communion 6pm Wholeness & Healing ServiceMon 2nd 7pm Compline - Night PrayerSun 8th 10am Morning WorshipMothers DaySun 15th 10am Together@10 with Mums 6pm Holy CommunionPassiontideSun 22nd 10am Morning WorshipPalm SundaySun 29th 9.30am Palm Procession from War Memorial10am Morning Worship 6pm Palm Sunday “Songs of Praise”Join the Festival Choir for a Service of Traditional Hymns and Choral piecesAprilMaundy ThursdayThurs 2nd 7pm Agape with Foot washing join us at Axmouth ChurchGood FridayFri 3rd 2pm A Service of Music and ReflectionEaster SundaySun 5th 9.30am Together @ Easter Communion6pm Wholeness and Healing ServiceBaptismsNoneWeddingsNoneFuneralsAndrew (Irve) Elliot Davis-Griffiths 16th February
1CONTENTSService News Inside Front CoverContents 1Reflections from the Rectory 2From the Editor 3Church Notices 4 & 5Earth Hour 2026 6Palm Sunday Service details 7Natyre Notes from David 8Adverts 9 & 10Know it All... Diana Hunt 11Our Pub, Shop & Tea Rooms 12 & 13Horticultural Society 14Church Mission Action Plan Questionairre 15-18 (this item is removable and can be filled in and returned to the church)Lyme Regis Museum Talks 19News from your Local Pub 20 & 21Palm Sunday & Holy Week 22Adverts 23 & 24Debt Awareness Week 25Gods Grandeur 26ALCSG & Afternoon Tea! 27Village Hall Dates and Up-date 28 & 29Parish Council Report 30 & 31Adverts 32Church Officers & Contact details Inside Back CoverAdverts Rear CoverParish News Copy DeadlinesPlease remember the NEXT issue of the magazine is for Apriland all articles up to and including things for early May should be with us by the 15th MarchEmail to - [email protected]
2As we begin the month of March we have just started Lent which we observe ahead of Easter. Easter is early this year, so it feels like we are hardly over the Christmas celebrations before we race on towards Easter. Have you seen the hot cross buns and Easter eggs already in the shops!Those of us who attend church in the Axe Valley Mission Community have been busy since Christmas celebrating Epiphany, the baptism of Christ and the Presentation of Christ in the Temple. Phew…Thank goodness for Lent. It offers a space. It is a time of preparation and personal reflection. It also offers a time to study together. Joining a Lent Group can be such a wonderful blessing.Some of us will join in with the Church of England course this year. Some of us are listening to a Lent podcast. Some people will read a book for Lent and/or some will set-aside a quiet time each day. Whatever we choose to do, it is about being intentional in our journey towards Easter, the most important event in our Christian calendar.I have been ordained as a Priest over 10 years now and one thing that I have really grown to love is the Christian Calendar we follow throughout the year. It enriches my life, deepens my connections with the year and, I think, helps me to celebrate each event more fully. Our celebrations are some of the best. I thoroughly recommend you joining in. We know how to party!In this time of such anxiety in the world, our churches offer a place of prayer, peace and hope. Our beautiful buildings are community buildings open every day. They, and we, are here for you.As you start this new year, why not give church a go? We have so manydifferent styles of worship to enjoy across our eight churches, including activities for young people. We also have some of the best parties! Please come and join in. We’d love to meet you.With all good wishes,Rev Nicky
3Welcome to the March edition of theParish News. At the very end of January we were saddened to hear of the passing of Jeanne Allen and Wg Cdr Mike Jenkin, and then in the first week of February dear Don Draper passed away. In between them all I lost my father-in-law, so it has been a very emotional and sad start to 2026 for very many of us.Jeannne was a faithful servant of the Church in Uplyme, and along with her husband Ted they had served regularly on the PCC. Jeanne cleaned the Church every week for many years, and woe betide you if you started to walk in with muddy or wet shoes if she was by the door. I’ve seen many a visitor in stockinged feet wandering around in thechurch. She was Asst Treasurer for a number of years and in her 90’s she became Sexton and Verger, roles she relished. If you ever went to a funeral in the church at that time, you’d have been met by Jeanne at the door, a rather stern looking, diminutive woman with her customary dark blue pillbox hat, but oh so kind.Mike was an ex-RAF pilot and I know, that up until a few years ago he was still flying privately out of a local airfield. (Dunkerswell I think). Mike was a regular at Church and was the person who read the Uplyme role of honour for the two world wars for many years at the Remembrance service. He was also instrumental along with Jack Thomas in finding out all the information about the young men from Uplyme who died in those wars and his research is printed every year in the service sheet for the congregation.Don really started all the youth work in Uplyme. He moved here with his wife Tricia in the 90’s and they became a huge part of Uplyme Church. He helped appoint Irve Griffiths as youth leader who sadly passed away in mid January. Don & Tricia helped develop and run “Families at Ten” at Uplyme, which was a service we could take our young children without worrying about the noise they would make! The liturgy and songs were more modern and it was lay led mainly by them. Alongside this they ran Friday Night Club in the village Hall and many Uplymers now in their 30’s will have been along at some point or other. The Alpha Course was another initiative Don brought to Uplyme and He and Tricia ran many courses over the years, I for one had my faith firmly established when I did the course with them. He served as treasurer for many years on the PCC with Jeanne as his assistant, and as he approached his 90th year joined me as a Deanery rep for the church. His support, love and work in Uplyme Church will be sorely missed.Our condolences, love and prayers go out to all their families and friends. Ed
4UPLYMEPLAYING FIELDA FUN, FRIENDLY FOOTBALL GROUPFOR 5 - 11YR OLDS LOOKING TOLEARN ANDPLAY FOOTBALL.ALL ARE WELCOME TO COME ALONGAND HAVE A GO!FOR FURTHER DETAILS CONTACTFLETCH HULBERT ON:07759 830128SATURDAY MORNINGSCommunity Walk and light lunch for all Saturday 15th MarchMeet at church 10.30amNext > Saturday 19th April If you don’t want to walk join us for lunch in church at 12.00 noonFor more information : Contact Sue Wells 07912 272102UPLYME CHURCH FESTIVAL CHOIRAll singers are invited to join Festival Choir to participate in either or both of two events at Uplyme:Carols around the Christmas Tree on Friday 13th December at 7.00pm.Uplyme Church Carol Service on Sunday 22nd December at 6.00pmWe sing in 4 parts but you are given lots of help to learn your part! You don't have to be a sight reader! Please ring Adrian on 01297 442902 if you'd like to learn more about getting involved this time or in the future.Uplyme Bell Ringers are offering a chance to have the bells rung to help celebrate a special occasion such as a birthday or anniversary. For further details please contact one of the following:- Andy Jarvis (Tower Captain) 07742634657 James Booth 07791055262Jo Clarke 07412714041Donna Heath 07815928212Mrs Ethelston's have been enjoying the recent addition to the school - two rabbits! The children have enjoyed having lots of cuddles and taking on the responsibilities of looking after them. The school is now in full Christmas mode, with rehearsals for Nativity and carol services well underway. We are particularly looking forward to making Christingles with our lovely church team!Bethany StapleforthYear 6 teacherMrs Ethelston's Primary Academy
5KNIT AND CHATTERWho are we:A very friendly group who love to Knit and ChatCome and join us, bring yourself, your knitting or crochet if you like. Or we’ll start you off!Where and When:Uplyme Church, Wednesday afternoon 2 till 4Who’s it for:Everybody is most welcome. Please do join usThere's always a ready supply of tea, coffee and biscuits.Who to Contact:Elizabeth Cooper on 07918 074 483Uplyme Gospel SingersWe are a community choir that meets at 7:30 pm on Tuesdays in term time atUplyme ChurchNo experience needed!No audition!No need to read music!First session is free!For more info -www.uplymechurch.org.uk/worship-3-2/uplyme-gospel-singers/email [email protected] phone 01297 443642
6Record number of young adults join ministry experience yearA record number of young adults have joined a year-long placement scheme to experience ministry in the Church of England.The Ministry Experience Scheme (MES) intake this year is 121, the largest the scheme has had since it was founded more than a decade ago. This year's total means that more than 1,000 young adults, including this year'sintake, have been part of the Scheme since it was set up in 2013.Share the Easter story – with an EggOut of the 80 million Easter eggs sold in the UK, The Real Easter Egg is the only one which has a copy of the Easter story in the box, is made of Fairtrade chocolate and which supports charitable projects.There are six types of eggs to choose from. Each Real Easter Egg comes with an Easter story in the box, the stories range from simple guides to 24-page activity book versions. So, buy a 2026 edition Real Easter Egg this spring and encourage others to give one to their loved ones, a school or sponsor a food bank donation.The 2026 Real Easter Egg will not be available in any supermarkets, but the full range can be ordered at www.realeasteregg.co.uk or by calling 01925877004.Earth Hour 2026 – a time to turn off your lightsThe Earth Hour 2026 takes place on Saturday 28th March, when at 8.30pm in their local time millions of people worldwide will turn off their non-essential lights for one hour.Organised by the World Wildlife Fund (WWF), the 20th anniversary of this global initiative will aim to raise awareness of the earth’s climate crisis, and to encourage environmental action through sustainable, actionable lifestyle changes. The first Earth Hour was held in Sydney, Australia, on 31st March 2007, and has since become a global movement. The 2025/26 theme is ‘Giving an Hour for Earth’ is encouraging people to adapt sustainable habits in their daily lives.And while our lights are off for an hour, Earth Hour will encourage us to spend the time in nature, or stargazing, or engaging in environmental, educational, or sustainable activities. More info at: https://www.earthhour.orgwww.parishpump.co.uk
7Come and join us!Sunday 29th March We will be starting at the War Memorial at 9.30am.Processing through Uplyme - past the Village Hall, past the Garage around the corner into Cooks Mead and up to Uplyme Church for a service of celebration and hot cross buns.Come along with your palm branches or pampas grass and join us and a Shetland Pony!! (No donkeys available!!)Mothers DaySunday 15th March Festival ChoirPalm Sunday 29th March - 6.00pmAll singers are invited to join Festival Choir to participate in the Uplyme Church Palm Sunday Songs of Praise service on Sunday 29th March at 6.00 pm. We sing in 4 parts but we give you help to learn your part! Please ring Adrian on 01297 442902 if you'd like to learn more about getting involved this time or in the future.
8Nature Notes 5: Spring Bird Migration There is still a great deal that we don’t know about bird migration. There is evidence to support navigation via stars and via the earth’s magnetic field. A genetic component is also important as young cuckoos, for example, migrate alone from Europe without their parents who had left earlier. During daylight birds will follow major river courses. The mystery was greater for our forebears. The eminent naturalist Gilbert White, a clergyman from Hampshire, 1720-1793, debated whether swallows and house martins migrated or hibernated during winter in ponds or hollow trees. Just consider that each year he observed swallows wheeling around his pond in Autumn, feeding on insects, the next morning they were gone, reappearing at the same pond in Spring. The notion that they were about to fly to South Africa for the winter would have seemed ludicrous!The end of March heralds the first arrivals of migrant birds that have over-wintered in Africa. The most obvious is the chiff-chaffwith its eponymous chiff-chaffing song which the male sings from a tree perch into early summer, firstly to attract a mate and then to defend its territory. Less obvious are the sand martins. To see these up really close visit the hugely successful artificial nesting wall with multiple nesting chambers at Seaton Wetlands, between late April and June (see photo). After many years of inactivity a few martins successfully bred at the end of the season a couple of years ago. Then, last year, 2025, the flood gates opened and around 500 chicks successfully fledged! Watch the adults with insect food and youngsters with heads poking out of the nest holes! The performance is just a few feet away, a unique show.Much has been learnt by radio tagging young cuckoos in the UK. The project discovered that they migrate using a westerly route via Spain or an easterly route via Italy and that birds migrating through Spain were much more likely to die before reaching sub-Saharan Africa than those migrating via Italy. With further studies it is hoped that measures can be taken to decrease mortality. Male cuckoos arrive in Britain towards the end of April and most have left by the end of June (see photo). One tagged cuckoo lived for 4 years and spent roughly 47% of his time in Africa, 38% of his time on migration and a mere 15% of his time in Britain!And I haven’t mentioned the thousands of waders, ducks and geese that pass through Britain to the rich feeding grounds in the arctic! Our estuaries, such as on the Rivers Axe and Exe, are essential staging posts for these birds to feed up before completing their journeys. David Cox
9Mike EbdonElectricianFor all yourElectrical needsRoseneathVenlake LaneUplymeDevonDT7 3SDHome: 01297 442861Mobile: 07774642740FREE ESTIMATESAll work Part P certified
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11Know it all…..You wouldn’t like to be near meWhen listening to the News,As every single article has me giving everyone my views.I have all the answers to all the newsman’s woesAs soon as the News appears, I start up and off I go.I drone on and on making comments-which are full of bileI can guarantee that my behaviour will last for quite a while.From politics to climate change and other world eventsTo how much money in Benefits to scroungers have been spent.There’s always one who pitches up to say they can’t heat up their homes,They fail to see the irony as they clutch expensive mobile phones.Then the great big fat ones who say they can’t afford to eatMany could live quite easily on their body fat for weeks.Boat loads of illegals who are flocking to our landPossibly one woman to every 10 of man.The Newsman will keep us up to date, from Beirut to the Berlin WallInforming us of Interest rates, if they will rise or fall.All the boxes ticked it certainly makes me smileThey must be all inclusive and that stands out a mile.Some groups are given airtime to get their point acrossHow this makes us equal -I’m really at a loss.Every single article done to death and SO ‘P.C’ Is lost on those opinionated - especially on me!Diana HuntDeprived parishes receive over £22m investment across three diocesesThree Church of England dioceses are receiving over £22 million to support parishes in some of the country’s most deprived areas, with programmes focused on revitalising churches, nurturing young disciples, and equipping leaders for mission.The Diocese of Exeter has agreed investment of £10m with the Strategic Mission and Ministry Investment Board (SMMIB) in a programme across Devon to energise clergy for mission, empower lay leaders and resource outreach to children and young people. It includes a specific plan to reshape the Church in Plymouth, the largest city in Devon and with one of the highest levels of deprivation.£9.9m has also been agreed with Manchester Diocese, to support a programme to provide practical support to parishes, expand ministry with children and young people, revitalise and plant new churches, and develop missional leaders.Meanwhile, £2.3m has been invested in a programme to help the Diocese of St Albans grow younger and more diverse by nurturing new missionary disciples and leaders, revitalising and planting churches and increasing mission to multi-faith and multi-ethnic communities.www.parishpump.co.uk
12Have you tried the Black Dog Tearoomsor visited The Talbot Arms? This is an unashamed plug for these two facilities we have inUplyme. This is not sponsored or requested by anybody. It’s metrying to highlight the huge value and appreciation for the gift ofhospitality in our Parish. We are so very, very lucky to have these establishments in our village. It is not easy for them to keep going in these times of huge costs levied on the Hospitality industry.As a parish of about 1750 people, there are not many villages that can boast of having a cafe and a pub. We must make sure we use them or like many other rural communities, they will disappear.I met and chatted to Rod recently from the Black Dog Tearooms, he said “We make all our own breads (sourdough, focaccia, and 'normal' brown and white), cakes, scones and biscuits. All the soups are made here as are the quiches, they change all the time, as we tend to use products that are in season at the time. We try to use locally sourced ingredients, like flour from The Town Mill. We also cater for gluten free and vegan diets as well. We have specials that turn up, normally prompted by finding local products that inspire us, such as Goats cheese and Muhammara (Roasted Red Pepper and Walnut Dip) on sourdough. Recently we made some quince jam and jelly from locally grown quinces, and I paired that with some lovely local sheep cheese from Somerset cheese company and made a platter of quince, sourdough toast and cheese. As well as the usual tea and coffee, you can see The Black Dog Tea Rooms offer an incredible selection of foods. Serving breakfasts, light lunches and afternoon teas. They are open 10am - 5pm. They are only closed on a Wednesday! The opening hours of the tea rooms is more regular than some of the places on Lyme Seafront. If you look at their advert in this magazine, you’ll see the phone number and website to contact them for more information and for booking ahead!I’ve known Steve and Wendy for many years at The Talbot Arms, they have been at the heart of this village. When you ask people about Uplyme they mention the welcoming Church the amazing Village Hall and the Pub………. usually the pub first!Steve and Wendy have always been the first to jump in to support local events. They’ve run bars and BBQ’s at fete’s and shows, organised Royal gatherings on the playing field and who can forget the beer and cider festivals that were held in Hackers Mead, all done to support and bring people to the village.
13Wendy told me that:“We are closed all day on a Monday and Tuesday throughout March unless we are asked to provide a specific service for someone, ie a wake or a party. Wednesday - the pub opens at 5pm for our - Pudding & Pie nights which are very popular Thursday - the pub opens at 5 and we have a normal evening menu Friday - pub opens at 11am for lunch time menu and is open all day. Friday is Takeaway night so there is plenty of space to come in for drinks, although some order a takeaway and eat it in the pub! Saturday - opens at 11am has the normal lunchtime and evening menu & maybe the rugby when it’s on! Sunday - we open at 11a.m and closes around 9.30p.m. depending what is going on . Sunday lunch time is our Carvery we have 2 sittings 12 o clock and 2 o clock (sometimes we do 3 sittings! The kitchen is closed in the evening.) Things can of course change for different reasons so it is always best to ring and book if you would like to come and eat . We are about to change our menu for March and we will share it online. Our Village Shop & Petrol Station I once had people turn up out of the blue at my house for a visit (there were 6 of them!) Nothing in the house to offer them. I managed to pop down the the Village Shop and and get everything I needed to furnish our visitors with sandwiches, a cream tea and cake. They hardly noticed I left the house! More recently I’ve taken to buying my regular grocery items there. I try to always buy my fuel from them and all my post goes through the post office there. I’ve had beer, wine, eggs, chocolate, flour, sellotape and AdBlue from the shop in recent times, it certainly is an Aladdin's cave of goods. I sometimes go by in the midst of a winter evening and there is nobody in there but it remains open just in case. That’s dedication. Being able to maintain facilities like these in this village is more about love for the parish than commercial sense. I’m not saying that they don’t make a profit, but we are lucky that the amounts made by the owners are able keep them here and do the thing they love doing.Not that many years ago we had a garage, a shop, a butchers, three pubs, a hotel and three care homes. Now alongside the Garage/shop, we have a pub and a tea room. I said at the beginning of this article, we are a community of 1750 people and if we all made an effort and visited these establishments regularly, it would help hugely to guarantee their future. Buying fuel and some groceries regularly from the shop and using the post office will always help. Visiting the Pub & Tea Rooms twice a year would add to their longevity. Lets not loose these wonderful establishments like we have many of the others places in Uplyme. I admit, I’m one of the worse culprits, but I am determined to do my part starting this year and get out to these places and enjoy the fare and fellowship. I urge you to do the same. Robin
14Uplyme and Lyme Regis Horticultural Societywww.ulrhs.wordpress.comOur full year’s programme is at https://ulrhs.wordpress.com. Annual membership only £6 per person - join via the website or at any meeting. Coach trip prices include a £5 nonreturnable deposit. Non-Society members welcome for an additional payment of £3.Daffodils at Kingston Lacy (National Trust), coach trip, Tuesday 10th MarchThe trip departs Uplyme Village Hall at 9.15am. The gardens at Kingston Lacy host a mass of daffodils, while the Victorian Fernery enables a close view of smaller plants nestled between sleeping tree ferns and other winter plants. Enjoy the Cedar Avenue and Lime Avenue or take the Camellia Walk to see their silk-like flowers. There is also a Japanese Garden and Kitchen Garden.The house is the opulent home of the Bankes family – built to resemble a Venetian palace with the Spanish room and the finest collection in Britain of ancient Egyptian artefacts and old masters paintings. Café and shop. Cost NT members £20; non-NT £33.To book contact Jenny Harding [email protected] 07773 604137Coffee morning, Saturday 21st March, 10am-12noonNow is the time to renew membership for the period April 2026 to March 2027 at a cost of only £6. Please bring cash to the coffee morning. The renewal date is slightly later than previously as we have aligned our membership year with the Groves discount card membership year to make administration easier. The coffee morning will be held at Uplyme Village Hall and is free for everyone, so why not bring a friend. On the morning we’ll be selling the ‘Potato in a Bucket’ kit for the Summer Show. For only £3 collect a bucket and choose a potato tuber to grow on for the show on 1stAugust. Use your skill and judgement to decide whether to chit your tuber, what soil to use, where to put your bucket and how often to feed and water it. There are £30 vouchers for the best yield and best quality, plus an Otter Nurseries voucher for the best Junior entry. And you’ll get a crop of delicious new potatoes to take home from the show after your bucket has been turned out and weighed.AGM and talk, ‘Lessons from a Lifetime of Gardening’, Wednesday 25th MarchA short AGM starting at 7.30pm will be followed by a talk by Anne Swithinbank a regular contributor to Radio 4’s Gardeners Question Time since 1994.If you’ve not already renewed your membership for 2026, please bring £6 cash. Doors open at 7pm. Members free; non-members £3.Tricia Boyd - [email protected]
15Uplyme ChurchMission Action PlanDear friends,Our church is beginning a gentle and prayerful process of developing aMission Action Plan - a way of reflecting on how we can serve God and thepeople of this village and parish well, now and in the years ahead.At this stage, we are not making decisions or proposing changes. Instead, weare simply listening.A small group, delegated by the PCC, has been reflecting on the life of thechurch and the village, and we would now value hearing a wider range ofvoices. Your experience, perspective, and hopes matter.The enclosed questionnaire is an opportunity to share:what you value about the churchwhat concerns or questions you may havehow the church is perceived and experiencedwhat you hope for the futureYou do not need to be a regular churchgoer to take part, and there are noright or wrong answers. Responses may be anonymous if you wish, and allreplies will be treated respectfully and summarised thematically.Please be reassured:this is not a votethis is not about change for its own sakeit is about listening carefully and faithfully before deciding anythingThank you for taking the time to help us reflect and pray about our calling asa church within this community.With thanks and every blessing,Rev Nicky DaviesTeam Vicar Axe Valley Mission Community
16This questionnaire is about how the church relates to village life. You do not need tobe a churchgoer to complete it.Uplyme Parish Community QuestionnaireFor village residents, parents, community groups, and those with little or no regularcontact with the churchYour Experience of the ChurchIn what ways, if any, have you had contact with the church (events, school,weddings, funerals, concerts, community use)?What words would you use to describe the church as you experience or perceiveit?Church and CommunityWhat do you think the church contributes well to village life at present?Are there needs in the village where you think the church could play a helpfulrole?
17Uplyme Parish Community QuestionnaireBarriers and PerceptionsIs there anything that might put you off engaging more with church activities orevents?What would make church spaces or activities feel more welcoming or useful toyou?Looking to the FutureWhat do you think the church contributes well to village life at present?Is there one suggestion or thought you would like the church to consider for thefuture?Thank you for sharing your views. All responses will be treated respectfully and usedto help shape the church’s Mission Action Plan.Please see overleaf for details of how to get your completed questionnaire to us
18Once you have completed the questionnaire you can remove this centre sectionfrom the Parish Magazine and deposit in one of our collection boxes which arelocated at;The Church Porch - The Village Store - The Village HallAlternatively you can scan this QR code to dowload an electronic copy of thisform and return it by email to [email protected]:Email:Your details are not specifically required and we are happy to accept yourfeedback anonimously - if however you would like to be updated on progressand receive an early copy of our Mission Action Plan please do complete themThank you once again for your time and valuable feedback
19Friends of Lyme Regis Museum Everyone is welcome to attend our talks in the Woodmead Hall.Thursday 5th March; an illustrated talk, ‘The Romance of the Letter Box’ by Tony Cross. At 2.30 pm in the Woodmead Hall, Lyme Regis.Tony will discuss our historic red post boxes and the various types, some of which survive from the 1850s. He will include our oldest letterbox from Dorset, dating from 1853 and still in daily use.Sunday 8th March; an illustrated talk, ‘100 years of Lyme’s History’ by Ken Gollop. At 2.30 pm in the Woodmead Hall, Lyme Regis.More tales from Under Shady Tree. Ken will tell the story of his grandfather, Frank Gollop, 1862-1960, the last of the stoneboatmen. Frank saw the decline of the sailing ships, the coming of the railway, the first car to come to Lyme Regis, two world wars and a changing holiday industry. Ken will cover the stone and cement industries, fishing, the harbour and the development of the town.Members £3 visitors £5. All welcome; in aid of Lyme Regis Museum.Enquiries to David Cox, 07800 895351
20Hello AllHere we are already looking forward to Easter Celebrations. I sit here wondering if it will stop raining by then? I am writing this month from Wales and yes, it is raining here as well! The daffodils are coming into bloom in our garden, which will look wonderful for St Davids Day.The first few months of the year are usually quiet for business at the pub. We closed for a few days over this time and used the time to attend to some jobs inside the building and to plan for outside jobs which need attention, and to also plan for what will hopefully be busier business times ahead.In 24 years at the pub, we have only had a handful of ‘incidents’! most of which were resolved without too much problem. We have a great bunch of youngsters who now come to the pub and I have been known to alleviate ‘over loud enjoyment’! by saying ‘’do you want me to call your Mother’’! …..which seems to do the trick!!)Recently we had some visitors to the pub who were chatting to Steve and I as we sat near the Bar. A group of young men who come in regularly to play pool came up from pool room carrying all their empty glasses and crisp packets and in turn all said Thank You and Goodnight to Steve and I as they put their glasses on the bar. Now, this behaviour is not an unusual occurrence at the pub as this wonderful respect is always shown to us by these young men, however … both visitors said they were amazed at how the boys had acted and the courtesy they showed us. Parents, if you know your sons come to the pub to play pool be very proud of them.AMSER I LLONGYFARCHIADAU ..TIME FOR CONGRATULATIONS Firstly, our love goes to, Izzy and George Heath on the Birth of their beautiful babies. Yes babies! They are very proud first-time parents to their Twins. I cannot wait for a Cwtch with them. Our love also, to the thrilled and proud Grandparents. These babies are lucky to be born into such lovely families. News from your Local
21Much love to Trevor and Samantha who recently became Mr & Mrs Beavis, we were so happy you chose the pub to host your celebrations with family and friends. We wish you every happiness.There are a few of our lovely regulars who are struggling with health issues at the moment, please know your friends and all the team at the pub are wishing you well and hoping to see you back at the bar very soon.Please could we all keep James, Erika, Ben Lottie and baby Ollie ‘The Beavis Family’ in our prayers as they continue to nurse the needs of baby Ollie during his time of struggles. We hope to see all 5 of you back in the pub very soon.Big Thanks to our Local groups who chose the pub for their annual get together meals, we really appreciate your support and from your feedback you really enjoyed the food and service. We love seeing you all in the pub. Huge Thanks to all you fantastic regulars, we love your company and are very grateful for your continued support. Thanks also to those who choose the pub for times when they, for whatever reason, need our services, we are truly always happy to help if we can.There are some exciting events being planned for the near future so please pop into the pub and see our ‘Whats Occuring’ Blackboard.We have always tried to make The Village Pub more than a place to just eat or drink. It is a place to meet, talk, laugh and feel part of our Village. If you have not been for a while please pop in, We are lucky to have such a wonderful ‘Team Talbot’ who would welcome you through the door.Please be aware of our opening times during these quieter times, give us a ring or send us a message if we can be of any help.With Warmest Wishes and much love Llawer o gariad Wendy xxHow many church members does it take to change a light bulb?What do you mean CHANGE??? That light bulb was given in memory of my grandmother! My father installed it with his bare hands! He donated his time AND the use of his ladder to do it, too! My family's been members of this church for four generations! And if you think you're going to come in here and make a bunch of changes all of a sudden, vicar, you've got another thing coming!www.parishpump.co.uk
22Palm Sunday & Holy WeekThe events of Easter took place over a week, traditionally called Passion Week.It began on Palm Sunday. After all His teaching and healing, Jesus had built a following. On the Sunday before He was to die, Jesus and His followers arrived at Jerusalem. The city was crowded. Jewish people were arriving from to celebrate Passover. This commemorates how they had escaped from slavery in Egypt nearly 1,500 year earlier. Jesus rode into the city on a young donkey. He was greeted like a conquering hero. Cheering crowds waved palm branches in tribute. He was hailed as the Messiah who had come to re-establish a Jewish kingdom.The next day they returned to Jerusalem. Jesus went to the temple, the epicentre of the Jewish faith, and confronted the money-changers and merchants who were ripping off the people. He overturned their tables and accused them of being thieves. The religious authorities were alarmed and feared how He was stirring up the crowds. On the Tuesday, they challenged Jesus, questioning His authority. He answered by challenging and condemning their hypocrisy. Later that day Jesus spoke to His disciples about future times. He warned them about fake religious leaders; the coming destruction of Jerusalem; wars, earthquakes and famines; and how His followers would face persecution.By midweek the Jewish religious leaders and elders were so angry with Jesus that they began plotting to arrest and kill Him. One of Jesus’ disciples, Judas, went to the chief priests and agreed to betray Him to them. Jesus and the 12 disciples gathered on the Thursday evening to celebrate the Passover meal. This is known as the Last Supper. During the evening, Jesus initiated a ritual still marked by Christians – Holy Communion – which commemorates His death. Jesus broke bread and shared it and a cup of wine with His disciples. Judas then left to meet the other plotters. Jesus continued to teach the others and then went outside into an olive grove to pray. He even prayed for all future believers. He agonised over what was to come but chose the way of obedience. The Bible book, Luke, records Him praying, ‘Father if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will but yours be done’. Minutes later Judas arrived with soldiers and the chief priests and Jesus was arrested. www.parishpump.co.uk
23Wool & synthetic carpets, vinyls & Karndean engineered woods, sisal, coir & seagrass, rugs to orderCompetitive prices with fantastic serviceFor all your flooring needs come to:01297 33771Castle Hill, Axminster, EX13 5PYwww.wellscarpetbroker.co.uk~ Quality Tree Surgery~ Tree Reports & Surveys~ Forestry Maintenance~ Felling~ Estate Management~ Decking~ Landscaping & Patios~Site & Garden Clearance~ Hedge Trimming & Laying~ Grass cutting & Strimming~ Planting~ Stump Removal~ Logs & On site splitting~ Wood Chipper & Man for hire~ Fencing - Domestic & StockBROADLEAFTREE SURGERY &GARDEN SERVICESFor a free quotation & advice please callAlastair Down01297 3536407747 804 [email protected] Qualified Staff & Fully InsuredCRW Accountants Ltd For all your Business, Personal Accountancy and Taxation needs dealt with confidentially and cost effectively.Contact: Hayley PerhamBA(Hons), FAIA, CPA, FMAAT, ATT(Tax)On 01297 [email protected] a Free initial consultationwww.crwaccountants.co.uk“Your oven cleaning specialists”ovenloving.co.uk/sidmouth 01395 206870YOU CAN BOOKONLINEBefore AfterAmazing results
24Mike Maccoy Computer Tutor & sort-outer of problems 100s of satisfied customersNew or Old, Bewildered or Terrified Specific or General One-off or Every-so-often --------------------------------------------- I come to you and help you on your own computer. I am experienced, speak your language, work with you at your pace to tackle everything from installation to general, Internet / e-mail, Broadband, wireless, printing, photos etc etc.Phone me at any time on 01297 442321 or 07970443631 07970 443 631Tel: 01297 445626Email: [email protected]“your home from home by the sea”Spacious rooms, in a beautiful house, in a glorious part of DevonWe are Dementia Care SpecialistsPinhay House Care HomeArtist blacksmith living in Uplyme designing and manufacturing garden plant supports, structures, furniture and art.Check out the whole range on my website or contact me for bespoke designs and commissionsjonne@jonne.co.ukwww.thegardenersblacksmith.co.uk07770 720 373The Gardener’s Blacksmith
25Debt Awareness Week 2026 – 16th to 22nd MarchEverybody seems to be in debt these days, from households across the UK, right up to the public sector. Our household debt is a burden to us. As of April 2024, the total debt per household (including mortgages) averaged £65,143. Many households struggle with ‘problem debt’, ominously relying more and more on credit cards and payday loans to simply meet essential living expenses. This bleak situation, often called a ‘debt trap’, can ruin lives.At the same time, our national public debt is at record levels and rising. According to Goldman Sachs, it now stands at 101% of GDP. At the end of 2024, our national debt was the third highest of European countries. And high interest rates and inflation have only increased the cost of servicing this enormous debt, which in turn puts pressure on public finances.While the government struggles, hundreds of thousands of households are seeking personal help. Debt advice charities like StepChange, Citizens Advice and CAP (Christians Against Poverty) have reported a record-high demand for help. The strain of living with unmanageable debt can affect your mental health, reduce your productivity, and increase your reliance on public services.So this year’s Debt Awareness Week will encourage people to not be ashamed of their debt, but instead to seek free, confidential, and professional advice on dealing with it.More info at: CAP - https://capuk.orgCitizens Advice - https://www.citizensadvice.org.ukStepChange - https://www.stepchange.org/debt-awareness-week.aspx£8.7m a year - how much churches in a single community give the nation The value of support from churches in a single community in the West Midlands has been calculated at £8.7 million a year, Bishop Rob Wickham, chief executive of Church Urban Fund said recently.Bishop Rob was speaking just before the February meeting of the General Synod, which debated a motion on poverty and the Church. The debate marked the 40th anniversary of the publication of the landmark Faith in the City report.Churches collectively are estimated to contribute over £55bn a year through initiatives like food banks, lunch clubs and night shelters.www.parishpump.co.uk
26March 2026 This month we focus on God’s love for us; in April we will focus on how God has plans for our individual lives and in May, we will consider God’s desire for us to share his love in eternal Glory.In our bible, God states “Greater love has no-one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends” A married family man and Nazi prisoner was sentenced to death by starvation and cried out that he would never see his children again. Hearing this, an unmarried prisoner volunteered and died in his place. Through his word, God describes how his only son, Jesus Christ, came to earth and died on a cross as substitute payment for our sins. Our gratitude has to be expressed by admitting our need of forgiveness and asking Jesus to be our Lord and Saviour. In turn, God lovingly give us a spiritual second birth through his free gift of faith. We are saved to serve with other Christians in church fellowships with thanksgiving and praise and to tell others of God’s saving love. David Dare.
27Afternoon tea, anyone?Do you take afternoon tea? Ever wondered where it started? The custom seems to date back to the mid-19th century, and the seventh Duchess of Bedford, Anna Russell. The Duchess got hungry at about 4pm each day, calling it “that sinking feeling”. As it was still four hours until dinner (at 8pm), she began to have sandwiches or a small cake with some tea. Her friends thought this was marvellous, and the idea spread quickly through (hungry) upper class circles. Soon, it seems, everyone in England was looking forward to Afternoon Tea, and a great British tradition was born. Though, during the last century, the sandwiches and cake gave way to biscuits, still we reached for the teapot each afternoon. Not so much anymore, it seems. In the last five years, sales of tea and biscuits have dropped. Perhaps we are drinking coffee? The research was done by retail analysts Mintel.www.parishpump.co.uk
28It’s March! The Equinox is on Friday 20th March tipping the balance from dark to light with the clocks springing forward on Sunday 29th for longer evenings. Summer is surely on the way! Don’t miss the Hall Jumble Sale and Coffee morningThe Hall is now 32 years old, built as a result of exceptional generosity with money and time by the people of Uplyme and its environs, together with major grants from the Community Council of Devon, East Devon District Council, the Foundation for Sport and the Arts, and the Rural Development Commission. It is dedicated to future generations in the belief that there is good in all people with our hard-working committeecontinuing to raise funds to keep the Hall in good condition for us all.Thank you to everyone who helps the HallIf you would like to find out more or help at any of our events, please talk to Chair Pete Hackett, Secretary Margaret Wiscombe, Manager Amber or any of our friendly committee [email protected] https://uplymehall.co.uk/ 07396 704980
29Village Hall March 2026REGULAR HIRERS - TIMES MAY VARYPlease check with the group/organisationUplyme Pre School/ Term time onlyMondays 9am-3.45pmTuesdays 9am-3.45pmWednesdays 9am-1.15pmFridays 9am- 1.45pmMrs Ethelstons/Term time onlyWednesdays 1.30-3.30pm (4.45 if club)Thursdays 9.00am- 3.30pm (4.45 if club)Fridays 1.45pm-3.30pm (4.45 if club)YogaThursdays 6.30pm-8.00pmShort Mat BowlsMondays 6.30pm-9.00pmParish CouncilUsually 2nd Wednesday of each month6.30pmHorticultural SocietyUsually 4th Wednesday of each month7pm-9pm Mainly BallroomSaturday 14th MarchQuakersSundays 9.30am – middayVillage Hall Committee meetingUsually 1st Tuesday of each month 7.00pm (except August)Other bookings this month;‘Dance Connection Wessex’1st and 3rd Wednesdays 7 – 8.30pm. See the poster at the hall for more information.Horticultural Society Coffee Morning 21st March 10am – 12noon Village Hall Jumble Sale 28th March 10am – 12noon Also coming up;18th April GIG Club Jumble Sale 2pm Upcoming events are advertised in our noticeboards at the Hall and also on our Facebook and Instagram page.Visit our website/calendar www.uplymevillage.comCalendar/online calendar times are hire times not event times. Check with the individual organisations for event times.To book the Village Hall please email [email protected] or call 07396704980 (office hours only please).Love Uplyme and our community?Leave a gift in your will toUplyme Village Hall CIOand you will be helping to secure the future of ourvillage hall for Uplyme.Or commemorate the life of a loved one with a donation.If you are considering it, Thank YouAny gift, large or small, makes a [email protected]
30Uplyme Parish Councilc/o Uplyme Village Hall, Lyme Road, Uplyme, Lyme Regis DT7 3UYTel: 07413 947067 Email: [email protected]: www.uplymeparishcouncil.gov.ukSpring is springing!Affordable Housing in Uplyme Uplyme Village Hall saw a steady stream of friendly faces, when residents dropped in to explore the early plans for the proposed affordable housing development at Venlake. The session, hosted by Lyme Regis Community Land Trust and Hastoe Group, gave everyone the chance to browse the display boards, chat with the project team, and share thoughts on how the scheme could support local housing needs.Whether people popped in themselves or helpfully passed the details on to others who might be interested, the community spirit was very much alive. Members of Uplyme Parish Council were also on hand throughout the afternoon, helping to answer questions and explain how the project fits into the wider Neighbourhood Plan.Plenty of ideas were exchanged, and the feedback gathered will help shape the next steps of this much‑needed development. A fuller update will appear in a future edition of the Parish News—so keep an eye out for that.Hedge‑Cutting Deadline As we approach Spring, residents are kindly reminded to complete any hedge‑cutting or major trimming before 1 March. This timing is important because from 1 March to 31 August, the main bird‑nesting season is legally protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, which makes it an offence to intentionally damage or destroy an active nest.Many of our local hedges provide valuable shelter for nesting birds, and even small disturbances during this period can cause harm. By carrying out any necessary cutting now, residents can help ensure that birds have a safe and undisturbed environment throughout the breeding season.Light garden maintenance is still allowed during the nesting period, but any work that risks disturbing nests should be avoided. If you know birds are already nesting in a hedge, it must be left untouched until the young have fledged. Chairman: Cllr A. Turner Vice Chairman: Cllr. P. Oakley Cllrs: J. Beavis, Mrs. E. Daly, Mrs P. Frost, P. Hackett, D. Elford, C. Pratt, Mrs. F. Rawlins, W. Trundley.
31When carrying out hedge‑cutting, please also take care to ensure that clippings do not fall or wash into roadside gullies or drains. Loose material can block drainage systems, increase the risk of localised flooding, and create additional work for maintenance teams. Bagging or composting clippings at home is the best way to prevent this. Thank you for helping to protect local wildlife and for keeping paths, pavements, and roadways safe and accessible for everyone.Cemetery Path Condition: Visitor Safety Some sections of the cemetery paths have begun to show cracking and surface wear, and we are monitoring these areas closely. While the paths remain usable, changes in the surface can present a potential trip hazard, particularly for visitors who may be less steady on their feet or who use mobility aids, wheelchairs, or prams.Cracks can also behave differently depending on the weather. After rain, small depressions may hold water, and in colder conditions these areas can freeze, making the surface more slippery than usual. Visitors are therefore encouraged to take extra care when moving around the site, especially during or after poor weather.The cemetery is a place where people often walk slowly, carry items, or focus on tending graves, so it is important that everyone feels confident underfoot. Notices will be posted on the gates to ensure that visitors remain aware of their surroundings while we continue to assess and plan appropriate maintenance.Path Repairs at Barnes Meadow Regular users of the Barnes Meadow path to the war memorial will have noticed that the surface has been getting a little worse for wear. After several years of heavy rain washing out the sand beneath the paving—and a substantial amount of ant activity during recent hot summers—the path has become uneven in places. While it’s still usable, the Barnes Meadow Management Committee is keen to prevent it becoming a safety issue.A contractor has now been appointed to carry out the necessary repairs, with work scheduled to begin on 23 February and expected to last for around five days, weather permitting. To allow the repairs to be completed safely, most of the path will need to be closed during this period.Clear explanatory notices will be placed at both ends of the affected section, and safety barriers will be in position throughout the works. Access to the War Memorial will remain open, via the unaffected concrete path leading from Barnes Meadow near the Lyme Road entrance.Thank you for your patience while these essential repairs are carried out. Chairman: Cllr A. Turner Vice Chairman: Cllr. P. Oakley Cllrs: J. Beavis, Mrs. E. Daly, Mrs P. Frost, P. Hackett, D. Elford, C. Pratt, Mrs. F. Rawlins, W. Trundley.
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Uplyme Church Contactspart of the Axe Valley Mission CommunityUplyme Church, Pound Lane, Uplyme, DT7 3TTTeam Vicar Rev Nicky Daviesemail [email protected] Tel 07931 413629Churchwardens Jan Impey 07597 576885Verger & Bookings Jenny Perham 07761 081424Licensed Lay Minister (LLM) Ann Gray 07703 182845Church Administrator Louise Collard 01297 441986email: [email protected] Office Hours: Mon - Wed & Fri 09.00 – 12.00Thurs 12.30 – 15.30Hon Treasurer Sharyn Walker 01297 444811PCC Secretary Chris Buckingham 07770 253289Safeguarding Advisors Claire Gregory 07966 300919Church Membership Mike Maccoy 07970 443631Gospel Choir Jo Cursley 01297 443642Festival Choir Adrian Pearson 01297 442902Flower Group Carole Hodges 07968 381480Deanery Synod Robin Hodges 07774 139972Saturday Football Fletch Hulbert 07759 830128Mrs Ethelston’s School Head Katie Allington 01297 442210School Link Bruce [email protected] News Editor Robin Hodges 07774 139972Email: [email protected] Church Registered Charity Number 1131962 This magazine is printed by:AXMINSTER PRINTING COMPANY LTD01297 32266 - www.axminsterprinting.co.uk - [email protected]
HeritageChimney SweepingEast Devon, West Dorset, South SomersetTel: 01460 984001Mob: 0794 6707 906heritagechimneysweeping@outlook.comheritagechimneysweeping.co.ukTrusTed LocaL FamiLy FuNeraL direcTors& moNumeNTaL masoNs• Offices also at Seaton, Bridport,Honiton & Ottery St. Mary• Pre-arranged & prepaid funeral plansRecommended by The Good Funeral Guide and The Natural Death CentreWest street, Axminster 01297 34283W. g. pOtterwww.funeraldirectors.uk.comJulian & Karen Hussey dipFd NaFd Jasmine & George Hussey dipFd NaFd