New exhibition reveals life of author, fisherman and home front hero Stephen Reynolds

Sidmouth Museum has revealed a new exhibition focusing on author, fisherman and 'home front hero' Stephen Reynolds.

The contemporary exhibition, put together by local artist Laura Boyd, is open now and will be on show until April 27, running alongside the museum's main display.

It shines a light on the life of extraordinary author and fisherman Stephen Reynolds and Sidmouth's fishing past.

"This exhibition gives a great insight into the life of Stephen Reynolds, the man and his work," said Ann Tanner, the museum's deputy curator.

"Local artist Laura Boyd has been working since last August to produce the exhibition. We wanted a contemporary take on Reynolds' life.

"He ran the inshore fishing department in Devon and Cornwall, looking after 750 miles of coastline during World War I from here, right above the museum.

"In his day he was quite a famous writer and I think this exhibition really connects you with the man himself."

Stephen Reynolds was born in May 1881 in the Wiltshire town of Devizes, the son of a leather tanner and pub landlord.

In August 1906 Reynolds and his dog, Margot, walked from Devizes to Sidmouth, the 100 mile trip took the pair five days.

Stephen only planned on staying in Sidmouth for two nights with local fisherman Bob Woolley and then move onto Dartmoor. He ended up staying in Sidmouth for the rest of his life.

Where he would work with local fishermen, championing their lifestyle and taking their concerns to the highest levels.

It was in Sidmouth that Stephen wrote his most famous book, A Poor Man's House.

The museum, which is run by the Sid Vale Association, would like to invite locals to visit the museum to get an insight into Sidmouth's history, Ann said: "Local people should definitely find some time to visit the museum as everything here is relevant to Sidmouth.

"Everything on display was found in or around the Sid Valley or was donated by Sidmouth residents. We've also got examples of Sidmouth Lace as well as information on Sidmouth's last lace shop.

"We also have a geology room where you can trace Sidmouth's Jurassic history. You will find lots of new information on the town. The museum is fantastic for locals, people who are new to the area and visitors."

Last year the museum attracted around 13,500 visitors and on average attracts between 13,000 and 14,000 visitors a year.

Recently the museum has invited community groups, schools and charities to use the museum outside of opening hours and is working on a new pop-up museum service for local hotels, catering for visitors with mobility issues.

On July 20 the museum is holding a special event at Kennaway House on cliff erosion.

Using the latest scientific data, historical records and pictures the event will explain how Sidmouth's coastline has changed between 1898 and the present.