2nd May 2012

LYME REGIS: The View From Bermuda!

By Francesca Evans

A GROUP of twinning association members, including the Mayor of Lyme Regis, returned home this weekend after spending a week in St George’s, Bermuda.

The group of 14 furthered links between Lyme Regis and its twin town St George’s by taking part in a programme of cultural and historical events, including the annual Peppercorn Ceremony, and were invited by the Governor to join in celebrations at Government House to mark the Queen’s birthday.

The Mayor of Lyme Regis, Councillor Sally Holman, and new town crier Alan Vian - visiting Bermuda for the first time - carried out official duties during their stay.

Alongside the mayor and town crier of of St George’s, Kenneth Bascombe and David Frith, Councillor Holman unveiled a plaque on the statue of Admiral Sir George Somers, former Mayor of Lyme Regis who established the first settlement in Bermuda.

The plaque referred to a flagstone from Berne Manor in Whitchurch Canonicorum, Sir George’s home where his body is burried, which has been laid at the foot of the statue.

Mr Vian helped introduce officials during the week’s stay and, dressed as Sir George, the former headteacher took assemblies in local primary schools.

Sheila Poupard, chairman of the Lyme Regis and St George’s Twinning Association, said: “During the week we were able to develop further links between Lyme Regis and St George’s. We received excellent hospitality from the St George’s Twinning Association and we look forward to receiving a party from Bermuda for the Somers Day events in July.”

The annual general meeting of the association will be held in the Guildhall on Friday, May 11th at 7.30pm. New members are welcome.

PICTURE 1: The Mayor of St George’s Kenneth Bascombe with the Mayor of Lyme Regis, Councillor Sally Holman, and two town criers David Frith and Alan Vian at a plaque unveiling ceremony

PICTURE 2: Some of the visitng party from Lyme Regis

PICTURE 3: The Mayor and town crier of Lyme Regis pictured with St George’s town crier David Frith

PICTURE 4: The plaque unveiled by Councillor Holman

PICTUR 5: Councillor Holman and Mr Vian, dressed as Sir George Somers, are greeted by Mr Frith after arriving in Bermuda