Dorset Red // July 2026 

The Dorset Red Choir is a socially engaged community choir based in Bridport, Dorset. Its members are brought together by shared socialist and progressive values, developing and performing songs about solidarity, freedom, social justice and political protest.

As part of the Campaign Choirs Network, the choir sings at trade union, anti-racist, environmental and progressive events, as well as local gatherings in and around Bridport. New members are welcome without audition, and the choir also joins other campaign choirs for national events and initiatives.

Contact: B.lovejoy@btinternet.com

In July 2026, the choir sang at the Tolpuddle Martyrs’ Festival and at the Martyrs Inn. I took the opportunity to make portraits of its members beneath the Martyrs’ Tree in Tolpuddle village square.

The tree is said to be where the Martyrs first met to discuss their situation with the local farmer. It is now one of Britain’s best-known historic trees and is protected because of its national importance.