On Easter Monday 6th April, The Clockhouse, Chideock, home and business to three generations of the Long family, was destroyed in a devastating thatch fire. The family have vowed to resurrect their business from the ashes but as yet any signs of the rebuild are some way off. The Clock Rocks was imagined as a way to show solidarity with the family whilst raising funds to help towards the rebuild of the pub and the family’s immediate needs.
Held in a field, just outside the parish boundary, in Seatown, several hundred attendees enjoyed an afternoon of sunshine with panoramic vistas over the sea. Bobbies Gurlz kicked off the afternoon with some light hearted numbers on their ukuleles, followed by local singer Daisy Wardle and a guest slot by Elizabeth Swan.
A hoopla, giant jenga, giant connect four and ample space for football and hoola hooping ensured the many children were kept entertained. By mid-afternoon, the field was awash with glittering silver and blue, the result of a “beach schools” activity session by Cara from Dedley Adventure Days. A skittle alley and coconut shy provided an element of competition for all generations.
The Pickwicks were a popular addition to the musical line up, followed by female harmony duo Shiraz. Seven piece Bride Valley Band, performing self-penned songs, featured the biggest line-up of the day, whilst Acoustic Rooster offered lively folk numbers.
As the afternoon drew on both the BBQ and the bar, run by Clockhouse Licensees Mike and Helen Long, done a brisk trade. The prize draw, with nearly 30 prizes, all donated by local businesses and individuals was a popular addition. The music saw an increase in tempo as Moveable Feast took to the stage, before finally, local favourites Shelby’s Elbows bought the day to a close. With the final sum still to be calculated, the days fundraising efforts look to have amounted to over £2000 and rumours circulating on the day suggest that we may have seen the beginnings of an annual event.
