A much-loved Dorset fundraising tradition returns to Langton Herring on 20th June with a Chesil Rocks Picnic & Pimm’s event from 12pm–6pm.
Organised and hosted by Tim and Hilary Warren, the event once again supports the vital work of Samaritans, specifically the Dorset branch based in Weymouth. Since its inception in 2012, Chesil Rocks has raised over £131,000 for the charity, helping fund its life-saving listening services for those in crisis.
Guests are invited to bring their own picnic (but no drinks), as there will be a fully stocked on-site bar offering a wide range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic options—including the ever-popular Pimm’s. Additional refreshments will be available, and Samaritans volunteers will be serving cream teas and coffee throughout the afternoon.
Providing live entertainment will be the increasingly popular Fabulous Portesham Ukulele Band, led by renowned musician Sam Brown. The band has grown from 2013 into a highly accomplished ensemble, thanks to expert musical direction and a shared love of collaborative music-making. They rehearse on Monday evenings at the Kings Arms in Portesham, where their lively sessions have become a highlight of the local calendar.
Sam Brown, who took over as musical director in 2024, first rose to international fame with her massive 1989 hit Stop! and has performed with global acts including Pink Floyd and Jools Holland. After stepping back from professional singing due to vocal challenges, she dedicated herself to teaching and inspiring others – continuing the musical legacy of her father, Joe Brown.
The band has long supported Samaritans through busking and fundraising performances, including appearances each year at Chesil Rocks and the successful campaign to save the Elm Tree Inn in the village. Their performances are known not only for their musical quality but also for the warmth and joy they bring to audiences.
In one memorable moment during a rehearsal one Monday evening at the Kings Arms, a diner who overheard the band playing Pink Floyd’s ‘Wish You Were Here’ left a spontaneous £500 donation for Samaritans in memory of a friend – highlighting the emotional impact of both the music and the cause.
Samaritans itself was founded in 1953 by Chad Varah, offering a listening ear to anyone struggling to cope. Today, its 23,000 volunteers continue that mission across 200 branches in the UK and fundraising events like Chesil Rocks remain vital to sustaining their work.
With just 100 tickets available, this adult-only event promises to be an intimate and uplifting afternoon of music, community spirit, and fundraising in a stunning setting. Tickets are £20 each with all proceeds going to Samaritans. They can be purchased through the Chesil Rocks website: www.chesilrocks.com
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