Features & interviews from the magazine

November 2023 Robin Stapleton takes a look at the history of the Commonwealth War Graves Commission… The Commonwealth War Graves Commission (CWGC) was originally called the Imperial War Graves Commission (IWGC), which received its royal charter on 21 May 1917. Its name was changed in 1960 to reflect the changed times, and the organisation is…

October 2023 Patrick Barkham is the author of The Swimmer, a biography of writer, environmentalist and polymath Roger Deakin. The book is written mainly in Deakin’s own words, interspersed with quotes from the people who knew him best, and is truly compelling, even for readers who haven’t come across him before. We had the great…

September 2023 Dave Bolwell has been the mayor of Bridport since May and has already become a familiar face to many locals at both official functions and informal gatherings across the town. We asked him how he’s settling into the role… The Bridge: How does it feel to be mayor? Dave Bolwell: I’m really enjoying…

July/August 2023 Farmer Michael Fooks is President of the 2023 Melplash Show, which takes place at the West Bay Show Grounds on Thursday 24 August. We caught up with him at his North Poorton home to find out what the role – and farming – means to him… The Bridge: The President role is an…

June 2023 Jane Silver-Corren has music in her soul and she’s on a mission to help everyone enjoy the magical benefits of singing. We caught up with her to hear about her current projects… The Bridge: You’re a familiar face around Bridport, and there can’t be many locals who haven’t come across your unique brand…

June 2023 United Diversity Bridport (UDB) is the new kid on the town’s block of community action groups. Formed earlier this year by Josef Davies-Coates, who had previously been involved with the United Diversity movement in London, the group aims to help people ensure a thriving, united future for themselves in the face of increasing…

May 2023 Bridport Bowling Club celebrates its centenary this year and members are looking forward to marking the occasion with some special matches and events. This month both the county side (Bowls Dorset) and representatives of Bowls England – the game’s UK administrative body – will come to play matches at the club’s green in…

May 2023 Acclaimed local potter Jill Pryke has just thrown her last pot after decades at the wheel. Francis Grew met her in her studio to hear about her craft and her life as a church member. Francis Grew: How long have you been potting? How did it start? Jill Pryke: For 50 years, plus.…

July/August 2024 This year’s Melplash Show President is Martin Cox, whose ‘day job’ is running West Dorset Leisure Holidays (WDLH) from its flagship holiday park, Highlands End. We caught up with Martin at the park on the cusp of the busy holiday season and with the area’s favourite agricultural show on the horizon… The Bridge: Martin,…

April 2023 Monty Crook says St Mary’s Church House Hall is “the best hall in Bridport,” and while we can’t possibly comment – other halls are available to hire, including the excellent facility at St Swithun’s – he’s right that it is a superb, flexible space in a great spot. A host of hirers would…