ONE OF LANJARÓN’S most renowned (and sadly deceased) British residents, Sorrel Badger – known to some as ‘DJ Sosmix’, or simply ‘Soz’ – had her life and work celebrated on 16 March, 2026. The tribute involved the unveiling of a custom-made commemorative bench, located on a beautiful ‘mirador’ (viewpoint) just below the spa town of Lanjarón, on the A-348.
Designed by Neil Seabourne, the bench looks towards Sorrel’s house, with an impressive vista of the spa town as the backdrop. It was inaugurated by the mayor of Lanjarón, Eric Escobedo Jiménez, in a ceremony attended by about 50 people of different nationalities.
Sorrel Badger tribute bench – fist two images: J. Chip.
Sorrel sadly died during February 2024. The local community lost a great friend, musician, designer, activist, and humanitarian.
Sorrel was previously commemorated on the 2024 poster for the town’s annual fiesta of San Juan.
A diverse life encompassing music, activism, and community spirit
Born in west London in 1961, Sorrel Badger trained in graphic design and worked as an illustrator and signwriter before taking an ‘alternative’ path that combined travel, practical skills, and community living.
She spent time in alternative communities in Wales (including Tipi Valley) and France, was involved in the Greenham Common peace movement. Always an activist, as it says on the bench inscription Sorrel Badger never did anything in half measures – whether it was carpentry, sailing, playing accordion, qualifying as a Master Scuba Diver, or taking part in Convoy Cabaret.
Sorrel Badger eventually settled in the Alpujarran spa town of Lanjarón, where she built her home over the years. She was proud of the variety of plants in her garden, and proved a keen horticulturist.
Sorrel was a familiar presence in the town – whether quietly sipping coffee with friends, or dressing up for one of the town’s many fiestas or carnival parades, where she always felt at home!
Music was a constant theme for Sorrell Badger. As DJ Sosmix, she played vinyl sets at local events, festivals, and benefit nights. She once set the street alight (metaphorically speaking!) with a vinyl set at San Juan 2023. She also performed live with the duo, Las Favoritas, being a dab hand at accordion.
RFK and other charities
Equally important was Sorrel’s work to help other people – sometimes through aiding charity ventures.
Sorrel Badger was an active supporter of the Refugee Community Kitchen (RFK), going multiple times to volunteer on-site in France, and regularly contributing supplies from Spain. She also worked with Sea Shepherd, helping to protect marine life in the Mediterranean. She collected items for greenhouse workers in Almeria who live in ‘chabolas’ (‘shanty’ villages). She never sought recognition or made a show of her activities!
Although frequently feisty, Sorrel was very kind. She would be the person who quietly visited someone in hospital who was sitting unaccompanied, or helped a community member in need. Her network of friends and collaborators was vast, and her presence is missed in a number of scenes and communities.
A bench with a view
The contribution of Sorrel Bader in Lanjarón, and beyond, was recognised by the launch of the memorial bench in Lanjarón. “So people can visit it every day,” said the Mayor. The ceremony brought together a group of Sorrel’s friends, of mixed nationalities. Amongst those present was her mother, Gillian (pictured on the bench), who had travelled from England, and was pleased with the tribute.
The unveiling of the bench was followed by an informal gathering at local arts and music venue, La Fabrica. Here, guests shared food, drinks, memories, a slide show, and live music.
Sorrel would have approved!
In Pics – Sorrel Badger tribute at La Fabrica
Photos of the Sorrel Badger tribute evening: J. Chip