Live music returned to Bridport at Chapel in the Garden

More than £200 was raised as a live music show was held at the Chapel in the Garden on Sunday, May 23 - with Samantics and Nigel Clatworthy playing for a socially-distanced crowd.

This was the first in the 'Ropes on the Road' series which will see live music which would usually be held at the Ropemakers on West Street taken across the town as musical performances are currently on hold at the venue.

Keith Hatch, Ruthy Ni Connallain and John Baker, the team behind Roped in for Bridport, decided it would be a good idea to bring two of the pubs favourites to the Chapel in the Garden for the venue's first gig of the year.

The Sunday afternoon show was sold out with its socially-distanced crowd, enjoying the chance to see live music and catch up with friends.

Organiser Keith Hatch said: “The past year has been particularly difficult for live entertainment, the musicians, the crew and the venues that put it on. So we wanted to put on a gig in a space that was safe, had great sound and would raise money for a good cause.”

“Everyone had a great time, the musicians found it emotional playing in front of a live audience for the first time in ages, and the crowd responded brilliantly, enjoying the fantastic sound and chance to sit back, have their drinks served to them, and go out to a live gig.”

Samantics is known for his unique blend of live, multi-instrumental spoken word, whilst Plymouth favourite, Nigel Clatworthy played an array of uplifting music for the crowd.

The concert raised £150 for the Chapel in the Garden, whilst a further £87 was donated on the day for the Bridport Community Fridge.

The team are planning a follow up show due to take place in autumn. In the meantime live music will return to the Ropemakers from the beginning of July with a programme of events.