I wrote this poem in defence of Weymouth following criticism of the town as a holiday resort:

Weymouth Town

If life begins to get you down

Take a trip to Weymouth town

Its grand marina, jaunty yachts

Conjure up artistic thoughts

The golden beach of world renown

Hosts ‘Punch’ the everlasting clown

Donkeys, trampolines, rides en masse

An ice-cream parlour that’s world class

Ascend the tower (No beheading)

Its fame now far and wide is spreading

Scenic beauty, a rightful boast

Including the Jurassic Coast

A splendid harbour, fishing trips

With the mackerel, get to grips

Olympic sailing, try the course

Out at sea, view the ‘White Horse’

Mussels, scallops, fresh-caught fish

Whelks and cockles in a dish

Portland lobster, crab and prawns

Dough-cakes, cream with jam on scones

Ancient taverns claiming ghosts

Outside seating, friendly hosts

Real ale, cider, quench your thirst

Eat crab sandwiches till you burst!

The old Town Hall holds evidence clear

That the Civil War was active here

Close by the harbour to enthral

A cannon ball stuck in a wall!

Albert Douglas Gillen

Melbourne Street

Weymouth