2023/24
The Society offers an annual programme of social activities for its members (details below).
Our programme year runs from 1st May with an AGM in March. From October to March, we offer a series of interesting talks around a variety of French themes and this enables members to keep in contact with one another. These monthly autumn/winter talks are normally held on the second Thursday of the month. £4 entry fee for members, £5 for non-members.
The venue for meetings is usually the Dorchester Youth Association (DYA) HQ, Lübbecke Way, Dorchester DT1 1QL, BUT some events are held elsewhere, details shown with the programme item below.
Recent talks include:
- 'Working with the National Trust at Lytes Carey' illustrated talk by Geoff Goater;
- 'The archaeology of Dorchester' illustrated talk by County Archaeologist Steve Wallis;
- 'Sticks and stones - the killing of William Allen, 1850' talk by local author Philip Browne.
- Other social events are held three times a year: a September tea; a pre-Christmas society lunch and a Spring lunch. These are usually held in St George's Church Hall, Fordington, or in the Corn Exchange, Dorchester.
- In 2023, the society started showing classical French films with English subtitles. The film shows are held on a Thursday evening in the newly refurbished Corn Exchange cinema. Entry fee £6 on the door. Films shown to date:
12th January 2023 'Jean de Florette'2nd March 2023 'Manon des Sources'17th April 2023 'Amelie'31st May 2023 'Hors de Prix' or 'Priceless'19th September 2023 'He loves me, he loves me not'28th November 2023 'Intouchables'16th January 2024 'Cyrano de Bergerac'5th March 2024 'Monsieur Lazhar'
Last update to this page: Wednesday 17th April 2024
Friday 26th April - see the news page for details of a 'sister' event in the Piddle Valley.
Tuesday 7th May 6:45pm for 7:30, French film night at the Corn Exchange:
'The Diving Bell and the Butterfly' - this jewel of a French film has a story that impacts the audience with an appreciation for life (the butterfly) and for the despair of what may happen if a tragedy might befall you (the diving bell) with the beautiful landscapes of France as a backdrop.
It is the true story of ELLE Editor, Jean-Dominique Bauby, depicting his courageous and unsentimental battle to communicate and find joy in the wake of a devastating stroke.
You will be touched and amazed.
The story is spellbinding and emotional. Nominated for four Oscar awards and a winner at the Golden Globes and BAFTAs. In artistic cinematic terms, it is acclaimed as one of the best films ever produced. The writing and acting are so fluid it feels like the subtitles aren't even there.
Drama/biography.
SAVE THE DATE!
If you're enjoying our film nights, pencil in the dates for the 2024/25 series:
24th September 2024
29th October 2024
28th January 2025
18th March 2025
13th May 2025
Doors will continue to open at 6:45pm and it will be cash on entry, price to be confirmed. Film titles are yet to be released.
Twinning Society visit to Bayeux 2024 - Friday 13th to Monday 16th September - Put it in your calendar! Arrangements are well in hand for an exciting four days. We're now delighted to learn that the Mayor of Dorchester will be joining us!
Your committee has also organised introductory French Conversation Coffee Mornings and has arranged a DBS petanque group playing alongside U3A on Wednesdays. Details below:
Confident speakers, led by Barbara:
Normally the first Tuesday of the month, from 10:30am to noon, at The Walnut Grove in Durngate Street, but check dates with Barbara.
Beginners/intermediate level speakers, led by Ian:
Normally the third Tuesday of the month, from 10:30am to noon, in Vivo Lounge, Brewery Square, but check dates with Ian.
Please contact Ian at dorchester_bayeux_society@hotmail.com if you would like to attend either group. There is no charge for these sessions BUT we are expected to buy beverages at the venue so please help us by doing so. A huge thank you to Barbara and Ian for giving their time and efforts to this!
DBS members are invited to join the U3A group to learn the game and take part in some practice matches. The U3A group meets from 2-4pm on Wednesdays at Sandringham Sports Centre in the car park. For those not part of the U3A group, a £1 contribution is requested. If you would like to take part, please provide contact details to Roly Wilkinson, the U3A organiser, email rolywilkinson@gmail.com and arrive ready to play at 2pm.