There certainly appears to be an international flavour to this months issue, from TC Evans’s fascinating insight into the African adventures of Dorset artists, to grim memories of the First World War in France, as researched by Dr John Dearlove – appropriate as we approach Remembrance Day. As usual there is much to see and do, with African parties and lectures on Himalayan adventures keeping up the international focus.
There is nothing particularly new about international connections to our community but the sheer scale of the area’s reach was brought home recently at the presentation to the winners of The Bridport Prize, in Bridport Town Hall. Known in literary circles simply as, ‘The Bridport’, The Bridport Prize is a hugely successful and much respected poetry and prose competition, which was set up nearly three decades ago to help fund the Bridport Arts Centre. This year it received over 8,500 entries from a staggering 54 countries. As writers stood to accept the applause and their winnings, the names of the past Mayors of Bridport made a striking backdrop. How many could have dreamed just how international their town would become.
As we battle to keep up with the inevitable complexities, that change and cultural interaction bring about, it is often the little things that surprise. The tooth fairy visited our house last night and left a pound coin under a pillow. It wasn’t quite as shiny as the sixpence that I remember, and I thought the excitement was muted. I wonder what the reaction would be if the tooth fairy delivers a Euro next time. At least it’s two-tone.

Apologies for the lack of editorial last month. I have to assume that confirmation of the impending arrival of child number four… simply left me speechless. Right drained the last drop of ink from my digital pen it did. However – with a new found spring in my step, I can’t help but look forward to all that this vibrant community throws open to the world around us this month. West Dorset’s Melplash Show stormed back onto the map with a new secretary and a powerful determination to prove the value of the traditional country show. A wide range of excellent local food tempted visitors and residents alike to value our local producers. Hot on its heels, we look forward to the Dorchester Show next month, when the County Town offers up its best, with also a new secretary and nose to the grindstone by all involved. Art still plays a major part of our wider community with the start of Somerset Art Week and Nine Days of Art in Devon. The Thomas Hardy Country Tour will wend its colourful way through towns and villages in the middle of the month, highlighting the wealth of architectural and colourful heritage enjoyed by all that find themselves drawn to this special place. Dorset Architectural Heritage Week offers the opportunity to visit local places of interest also and Humphrey Walwyn has some interesting ideas on new modes of transport that could be sponsored by The Marshwood Vale Magazine.