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Herbie wins award for engraving at age of 91 A WELLS craftsman has won a prestigious prize for glass engraving at the age of 91. Herbie Davies of Milton Lane has been awarded the Gay Parraman award for excellence by the Guild of Glass Engravers. “I’m tickled pink that aged 91, I have achieved the accolade of not only being accepted into the Guild of Glass Engravers but I have also won this lovely prize,” said Herbie. In his younger years, he studied all areas of art, specialising in pottery at Cardiff Art College. In the Fifties and Sixties he taught art and rugby at Millfield School before going into industry. Since retirement he has continued his passion for art, including extending this interest into glass engraving. He said that he moved on to this because in the style that he uses, “all you needed was probably sit in the dentist’s chair and you could use his tools – basically drills”. He works in a studio above his garage, and says that his
Surge of support for Ukrainians Thousands of pounds raised and supplies collected to help people of war-torn country Turn to pages 2&3
‘Give motorists transparency’ Suggestion of way that could help bring down petrol prices Turn to page 7
Fundraiser in friend’s memory Herbie Davies engraving his prize commemorative glass plate technique is normally to draw a design on glass and then engrave it from there. The recent prize came with a commemorative glass plate which he has engraved with a version of the winning image that shows the layers of a Ukrainian Doll.
He and his wife Julia moved to Wells 30 years ago, but sadly Julia died in March just after he won the prize. “It was the last thing unfortunately. She was my best Continued on page 2
150-mile walk will raise funds for St Margaret’s Hospice Turn to page 11
Competition call Local artists urged to enter this year’s Wells Art Contemporary Turn to page 17
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April 2022
www.wellsvoice.co.uk CONTAC TS Editor and publisher Andy Vallis andy@wellsvoice.co.uk 07906 499655 01749 675157 Advertising sales@wellsvoice.co.uk 01749 675157 Editorial news@wellsvoice.co.uk 07906 499655 01749 675157
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Filling another van at the Bovis site with donations for Ukraine
Builders join forces to help BUILDERS in Wells are working together to support the people of Ukraine. L and C Scaffolding, contractors at the Bovis Homes site on Wookey Hole Road, have sent a lorry filled with general basics from nappies to food, as well as body armour and first aid kits. Dan Collinson, owner of L and C, and Mike Biegalski, the contracts manager who comes from Poland, are in contact with people in Ukraine. They take orders of what is desperately needed and then send them over.
Dan himself has raised over £15,000 and said: “The generosity of the locals has restored my faith in humanity.” Other contractors at Bovis Homes site, along with Wookey Hole Caves, have raised more than £1,000. L and C have raised a lot more and are sending another two vans of donations to help with the Ukraine war effort. John Olds, site manager for Bovis Homes, has liaised with site contractors and Jed Tatman, who lives in Wookey Hole, to coordinate their efforts.
Glass engraving accolade From page 1 supporter,” said Herbie. The couple had been married for 63 years. Julia, a teacher, was creative as well, and had a love of music, singing with Wells Oratorio Society for 28 years. Herbie ended up teaching technical drawing, engineering drawing and metalwork at Millfield – and was also in charge of rugby. As coach of the 1st XV he introduced pre-season training, in 1962, and helped develop players such as Gareth Edwards and JPR Williams. “I was only talking to Gareth the night before last,” he said. “They’re still my boys but now they are in their 70s. It was good fun and they were great lads. They still keep in touch with me.” One of Herbie’s glass
Herbie Davies’ engraving of the layers of a Ukrainian Doll engravings is on display in the Wells Cathedral shop. He also produced some work to commemorate the 800th anniversary of The Bishop’s Palace. He said: “I think it keeps you alive and active. It is a good skill. You can have a bit of fun with it as well.”
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wellsvoice
April 2022
3
n NEWS
Thousands raised for Ukrainian people THOUSANDS of pounds have been raised to help the people of Ukraine thanks to collections in Wells. Wells Rotary and Wells Lions were out in High Street twice in March collecting donations, and collecting tins were also placed in a number of shops and bars. “It is absolutely amazing to see the generosity of our Wells community,” said President of Wells Rotary, Wendy Ray. “To date we have raised a fantastic £12,158.44 which will be sent via our Rotary International network to help purchase medical trauma equipment. Part of this amount was £5,800 that Wells Cathedral raised from donations at their Sunday Eucharist service. “A huge thank you to everyone, for helping the Ukrainian people. It is heartbreaking to see photos and hear of the terrible plight they are in, suffering beyond imagination. If anyone would still like to make a donation, please contact me on 07787 874198.”
Vigils to show support SILENT vigils were held outside Wells Cathedral and The Bishop’s Palace to show support for the people of Ukraine. Organised by the Wells Amnesty Group and Mid Somerset Oxfam Group, each vigil lasted for an hour. Those taking part held up individual letters which spelt out the phrase ‘Solidarity with Ukraine’. A total of £370.62 was collected for the DEC Appeal during the first vigil, and £203.39 at the second vigil. “We were joined by up to 60 people who stood in silence
A show of support for Ukraine at the silent vigil at The Bishop’s Palace with us and in solidarity with the people of Ukraine,” said Jenny Williams, Chair of the Mid Somerset Oxfam Group. “We are immensely proud and grateful for the generosity of the people of Wells.”
School raises £3,000 WELLS Blue School raised more than £3,000 with a non-uniform day in support of Ukraine on March 4. Students and staff wore yellow and blue, the colours of the Ukraine flag, and donations were collected for The Red Cross Ukraine Crisis Appeal.
Vote to send £1,000 MEMBERS of the Wells Twinning Association voted at their AGM in March to send £1,000 to help refugees from Ukraine who have arrived in Poland. This followed an appeal from Jaroslaw Kielar, the mayor of Kluczbork, a town in Poland with which Wells has a friendship agreement. Kluczbork is accommodating hundreds
of Ukrainian refuges, but has also sent three truckloads of humanitarian supplies to its Ukrainian twin town, Berezhany, in the west of that country. Dawn Payne, newly elected chair of the Wells Twinning Association, said after the meeting: “This is a clear
example of twinning making an impact. Sending money to help our friends in Kluczbork who are doing so much to support Ukrainian refugees is something we can do from a distance.” u Reunited with a child from Chernobyl, page 4
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Some of those who took part in the street collections in Wells
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April 2022
n NEWS
Reunited with a child from Chernobyl Chernobyl, scene of the world’s worst nuclear accident in 1986, is in the news again with the war in Ukraine. Here, Mary I’Anson brings the story up to date of a child that she and her husband Adrian hosted in Wells in the 1990s through the Children of Chernobyl scheme SOME 31 years ago, a lunch queue formed at a conference. It was joined by David and Heather Lancashire of South Street, Wells. They fell into conversation with Vadim Bukat, a journalist from Belarus and he talked to them about Chernobyl. Chernobyl is within Ukraine but only 10 miles from the border with Belarus. Vadim mentioned that he had contacts with people in three towns in Belarus (Svetlogorsk, Mozyr and Narovyla) and asked if David and Heather could help as he wanted to bring children to the UK for recuperative holidays.
David and Heather returned to Wells full of enthusiasm and set up not only recuperative holidays but also the provision of medical aid to hospitals in the Belarussian towns where the children lived. In addition, they established children’s playschemes in Belarus in the summer holidays. David’s skills as a retired diplomat were brought into action and his contact with Graham Jeffs proved useful. Graham had been appointed Mendip’s CEO in 1984. From 1995, Graham encouraged Mendip to form a close link with Svetlogorsk and he was soon taking out to Belarus local editors, jazz musicians and planners. It was in September 1991 that the scheme for providing recuperative holidays got going, with 30 children hosted by 20 families in Wells. Adrian and I hosted 13-year-old Mariya –
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Mary I’Anson meets Mariya again; and Mariya with her husband Thomas and son Sasha petite, beautiful and clearly very intelligent. She soon settled in and her immune system and English improved at a rapid rate. After a month, she returned home to Belarus. However, work by Michael Eavis ensured that five years later, Mariya returned with a good friend called Tanya. Tanya stayed with Michael who took the two of them on a muchappreciated weekend in London. We stayed in letter and email contact with Mariya who let us know of her progress over the years: n A trip to Wexford, Ireland, as a youth camp leader. n Internships in Pittsburg and Washington DC. n Falling in love with Andrew Kelly – a US army captain with the experience of two tours in Iraq and who then transferred to the State Department. n Their marriage and subsequent birth of Sasha – now four years old and bilingual in English and Russian – and starting to learn French. n Their latest deployment in September 2021 to Mauritius with Andrew as number three in the American embassy. In November 2021, we were invited to be their first guests in Mauritius and quickly accepted on the basis that during our month stay we would stay elsewhere too. So the picture above shows me reunited with Mariya after some 24 years – both Mary but from different cultures – bridging the gap. On an occasion when Mariya sat with us during our stay in Mauritius, she said: “If it was not for Chernobyl, I would not be here.”
It was strange staying with Mariya and her family in Mauritius as eastern Europe descended into turmoil. However, I take comfort in the knowledge that when individuals of good resolve band together, great things can happen. Mariya with her intelligence, stamina and resilience is testament to that. But so is the legacy of David and Heather, Graham Jeffs, the administrators and teachers at the Blue School and Cathedral School, the host families, the doctors, opticians and dentists who carried out pro bono work… and countless others. This is just one isolated story. But it is good to pause and think about such things in these darkening days. n John Price, Chair, Children of Chernobyl Wells, added: “In these difficult times it is great to hear of Mary and Adrian’s wonderful experiences and to know that they have played a part in the lives of Mariya, Andrew and Sasha. “Over the years, our charity Children of Chernobyl Wells has had its fair share of happy endings and successes. We have brought hundreds of children to the Wells area to stay with families and, in this time, we have forged strong and lasting bonds with Belarussian families, schools and hospitals. “Despite all the current challenges, we are determined to maintain these links with our Chernobyl friends. Our supporters would expect us to do all we can to work for better things to come and we will try not to let them down.”
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wellsvoice
April 2022
5
n NEWS
New jewellery store set to open doors A NEW family-owned and run jewellery store is opening in Wells in April. Merlins the Jewellers will be throwing open the doors of the shop in Sadler Street on Tuesday, April 5. It is the jewellery business’ second store; the first, in Godalming, Surrey, was opened by Julie and Martin Harris in 1979, and is still going strong. The owner and manager of the Wells shop is Tim Harris, their son, who moved here in 2016. Tim, who has two sons of his own, said: “As local residents ourselves, we are completely committed to contributing to the community and are excited to be welcoming our friends and neighbours through our doors and providing a great balance of
affordability and quality to all our customers. “I grew up living in and above our jewellery shop in Godalming and, by joining the strong community of local traders here in Wells, I am so pleased that my own children will experience the same sense of belonging in the city we call home. “Having spent a lifetime living and working within the walls of Merlins, the jewellery business runs through my veins, and I understand the care and attention that is required to take responsibility for the restoration or repair of someone’s most precious treasures. “I am so pleased to be able to share my passion for exceptional and friendly service and, of course, exquisite jewellery
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Tim Harris with his sons Barnaby and Seth; and the shop at Godalming
services with the community and look forward to sharing a glass of bubbly with as many people as we can over our opening weeks.” Tim said that it is his father’s passion for making, restoring and caring for customers’ treasured pieces that still fuels the family business today. So the Wells branch will have the same commitment to providing high quality, reasonably priced repairs at all levels, from simple silver soldering repairs, to delicate diamond mounting and spectacular bespoke jewellery design. The business was named after Julie and Martin’s flatcoated retriever Merlin when they first opened their shop back in 1980. Somebody suggested calling it Merlins, as he was always the first one to greet people at the door. He died in 1990, but his name – and silhouette in the Merlins logo – lives on. The Wells shop will be open Tuesday to Saturday, 9.30am to 5pm.
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April 2022
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Man jailed for life for woman’s murder A MAN has been jailed for life with a minimum term of 14 years and 10 months after admitting murdering 47-year-old Sarah Ashwell in Wells. Antanas Jankauskas, 39, of Wookey, admitted his crime at a hearing at Bristol Crown Court on Thursday, March 10. The court heard a personal statement giving the impact on Sarah’s family, describing the devastation and heartbreak of her parents at having their only child taken from them and the effect on Sarah’s two sons. Her mother said: “Who gave you the right to take her life? … You knew she had two young children and people that loved her. “The boys have lost their mummy. One day she was watching her son’s rugby match, the next day they are told she is dead. How can you live with that? “Sarah used to talk about
Antanas Jankauskas the boys getting married one day and having children of their own. She would wonder what their partners would be like. Now Sarah will never meet those partners and will never know what it is like being a grandparent. “There will always be questions all through [the boys’] lives. They will have to live with
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the fact that people will want to know what happened to their mother. “We will never have Sarah back and the last minutes of Sarah’s life haunt me and will until the day I die.” The Honorary Recorder of Bristol His Honour Judge Peter Blair QC said in his sentencing remarks that Jankauskas had deprived Sarah’s children of their mother and their mother’s love, adding that everyone in court would have been greatly moved by the family’s impact statements. Sarah was found dead on Sunday, November 7, 2021, at her home in South Street. The Major Crime Investigation Team (MCIT) launched a murder investigation during the course of which four men were arrested on suspicion of murder, including Jankauskas, and a fifth on suspicion of assisting an offender. All were eliminated from the enquiry except for Jankauskas, who was charged with her
murder and appeared before magistrates on Saturday, November 13. Detective Superintendent Gary Haskins led the investigation, which involved more than 100 officers and police staff. He said: “Sarah’s life was taken by someone she had known and trusted. I want to pay tribute to Sarah’s family for their dignity and strength after facing every parent’s nightmare. “Throughout our investigation we developed a picture of Sarah as person – someone who was a well-loved mother, daughter and friend. I hope that those who loved Sarah can now start to build a new future for her sons, while keeping her memory alive.” Avon and Somerset Police made a mandatory referral to the Independent Office of Police Conduct (IOPC) due to recent police contact with Sarah before her death. Now that criminal proceedings have concluded, the IOPC will carry out its independent investigation.
‘Sarah was loved by so many people’ Sarah Ashwell’s family gave the following statement following the sentencing of Antanas Jankauskas for her murder: Today is another day of sadness for Sarah’s family. We are very grateful to Avon and Somerset Police and their teams of officers who have been exemplary in their support for our grieving family, and in bringing this case to court. We especially want to thank DC Louise Findlay and DC Rachel Pople. We are grateful to Victim Support, to our friends and members of the public, to Bridgwater Investigation Team 3 and to Detective Superintendent Gary Haskins. We will never forget the kindness of the officers who helped us. For us, knowing that we will never see Sarah again, and never share the things families do, is heartbreaking. After we told her youngest son what had happened, he said: “Mummy’s a star now” and asked if she was coming back. We had to stay strong for him but our
Sarah Ashwell hearts were breaking. We will focus on him and his brother, and giving them the love and support they need. Sarah was loved by so many people and she could communicate with anyone. She had so many achievements in her life. Justice has been done for her but we will never forget nor ever forgive the man who did this terrible thing. No punishment could ever be enough for what he has done.
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wellsvoice
April 2022
7
n NEWS
More transparency could help motorists THE AA says that Wells motorists would benefit from greater fuel-price transparency. Prices at the pumps have jumped sharply in recent weeks around the country, and rates at the three filling stations in Wells are already often higher than those charged in nearby towns. On the morning of March 23, the price per litre for unleaded petrol in Wells was 171.9 at the Esso filling station, and 169.9 at Budgens and Morrisons. For comparison, according to the AA App, petrol could be bought at the same time for 166.9 at Tesco Shepton Mallet, 164.9 at Morrisons Glastonbury, 164.7 at Asda Frome and 162.7 at Morrisons Bridgwater. Luke Bosdet, of the AA’s public affairs team, said: “The price disparities between towns are a very common gripe across the country. At least, now that the lifting of Covid restrictions means people are driving around
The cost of refuelling has surged – and Wells prices are already among the highest in the area more, they will be able to fill up in the cheaper towns or locations if they are passing.” He said that average road fuel prices in Northern Ireland are significantly lower than elsewhere in the UK because the official consumer watchdog provides a high level of transparency with an online price checking tool (consumercouncil. org.uk/fuelpricechecker/tool). “The same thing happened in Austria and other European
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countries when official fuelprice search engines were put online,” he said. “Typically, when the AA urged the Government and CMA (Competition and Markets Authority) to follow the example, the call fell on deaf ears. Perhaps the local MP could push for this relatively inexpensive improvement in fuel-price transparency.” A spokesman for EG Group, which owns the Esso filling station in Wells, said that the price of a barrel of Brent Crude oil is now the highest it has been for more than a decade for a number of reasons, including the war in Ukraine. “This then filters through to the supply of refined products. The price we buy petrol and diesel for sale has risen significantly per litre of petrol and diesel. We are not able to absorb these rises and may have to vary prices almost daily to reflect frequent wholesale price changes,” he said.
He added: “Though we cannot predict how global politics will impact the price we are able to sell fuel at in the weeks and months to come, it is clearly in our interest to remain competitive.” A Morrisons spokesperson, commenting on March 21, said: “In the UK petrol prices vary from town to town and even neighbourhood to neighbourhood, and we will always strive to have the cheapest prices in each local area. We remain the cheapest fuel retailer in Wells.” Budgens forecourt operator Motor Fuel Group had not responded to a request for a comment by the time Wells Voice went to press. n Prices were due to come down after Chancellor Rishi Sunak announced in his spring statement that fuel duty would be cut by 5p per litre for 12 months.
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April 2022
n NEWS
Raising awareness of diabetes issue THE City of Wells Lions Club is organising a Diabetes Awareness event in the Town Hall on the morning of Saturday, May 7. According to Diabetes UK, more than 4.9 million people in the UK have diabetes. There are also an estimated 850,000 people currently living with type 2 diabetes yet to be diagnosed, and an estimated 13.6 million people in the UK at increased risk of type 2 diabetes. Early diagnosis of diabetes is vital because if left there can be complications. It leads to thousands of leg, toe or foot amputations every year, and is one of the leading causes of preventable sight loss in the UK. Dr Campbell Murdoch says: “How do we fix an epidemic of diseases that shouldn’t exist, reverse type 2 diabetes, and live a longer and happier life?” The Lions Diabetes Awareness event is an opportunity to hear how Dr Murdoch believes the problem can be resolved. He will be joined by professionals from the Somerset Clinical Commissioning Operations Directorate – Integrated Care who will present information on living with diabetes. There is no charge to attend but seating in the Town Hall Ballroom is limited so those wishing to attend must collect a ticket from the Swan Hotel, Tourist Information Centre or at the Two Choirs Concert on
Friday, April 8, in St Cuthbert’s Church. The Lions are grateful to the Town Council for the free use of the Town Hall Ballroom to run this event. n Tickets are still available for the Two Choirs Concert, with the 40-strong Glastonbury Male Voice Choir and Cantabile, the Wells-based Ladies Choir celebrating its 20th anniversary this year, to be held at St Cuthbert’s Church on Friday, April 8. Doors open at 7pm for a 7.30pm start. The concert is being sponsored by Bowley’s Garage and the primary beneficiary from the profits will be Children’s Hospice South West. Tickets cost £10 and are available from the Swan Hotel, the Tourist Information Centre and, on the night only, St Cuthbert’s. For more information, and also to buy tickets, telephone 01458 201926. n People who have unwanted mobile phones can support the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance (DSAA) by taking their mobiles to reception in the Town Hall. The Lions have set up a secure box there where unwanted mobile phones can be left. The mobiles are recycled, the toxic components recovered so that they do not go to landfill and the money from recovery is donated to the DSAA. n To find out more about the Lions, email cityofwellslions@ gmail.com or call 0345 833 6736.
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Judges, lawyers, representatives of the Criminal Justice System in Somerset and civic dignitaries congregated at Wells Cathedral for the annual Legal Service on March 20. During the service, the new High Sheriff, Jennifer Duke, was sworn in for the coming year, and the work of the courts and the legal system in the county was celebrated.
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wellsvoice
April 2022
9
n NEWS
A wonderful husband, father and grandfather Well-known Wells resident Christopher Bond died suddenly on March 7 at the age of 78. His family have written the following obituary: BORN the middle child of three boys in 1943, to Lieutenant Colonel James Bond and Joan Bond, Christopher grew up at Burford House, near Pilton in Somerset. He met his wife Lindsay, a student at Girton College, while studying law at Trinity Hall, Cambridge. A long career as a solicitor followed spanning Reuters and later Field Fisher where he became a partner. Initially living in Richmond, London, he later moved into the family home at East Burford House, near Pilton, before moving to Wells four years ago. In his later career he worked as a director for various companies, and edited several magazines including The CISI journal
The much-loved Christopher Bond
‘Change’ and ‘The International Banker’. Outside his career he co-edited the Somerset Gardens Trust magazine with Lindsay and shared his knowledge of gardening, giving talks to various gardening groups. When he finally retired, he used all his skills, experience and energy working with community groups in Wells. He was active with Wells Art Contemporary, Wells Coronavirus Network and Wells Community Network, The Old Deanery Project and the Somerset Gardens Trust. Christopher was a really kind man, who was always looking out for those around him. Brought up an Anglican, he married a Presbyterian, before he and Lindsay became Quakers. They were members of the Street Quaker Meeting. He had a passion for gardening, designing beautiful gardens at East Burford House and later at Wells and at Lyme Regis. He particularly
loved the woodland garden he created at Wood Drive, Burford, it is still enjoyed by the whole family. He wrote poetry, both serious and humorous, which he enjoyed sharing with others. He had an active and full life from diving, walking and caving to running half marathons which he did right up to the end. He and the family even discovered a previously unknown species of plesiosaur at Lyme Regis, which was subsequently named Bondi. Christopher was a wonderful husband to Lindsay, father to Lara and Neil, and grandfather to Rory and Wren. They will miss him so much. Christopher’s Memorial service will be held on Saturday, April 2, at the Quaker Meeting House, Street, at 2pm. All are welcome. Please do not bring flowers, donations to Oxfam or Cancer Research would be appreciated instead.
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April 2022
n NEWS
Film celebrates hoax that shaped history A FILM coming out in April tells the remarkable story of events that changed the course of the Second World War thanks to a man who spent the last years of his life in Wells. The hoax that fooled the Germans into thinking that an Allied invasion was going to take place in Greece and Sardinia in 1943 rather than Sicily was the brainchild of Charles Cholmondeley. The new film that tells the tale, Operation Mincemeat – based on the book of the same name by Ben Macintyre – opens at Wells Film Centre on Friday, April 15. Charles’ wife Alison still lives in the couple’s home in Chamberlain Street. She said: “His training in MI5 was that you only tell people ‘what they need to know’, which meant he
could rarely be persuaded to talk about his brilliant wartime activities, though he features in several books written since the war. The making of the film and its appearance in Wells means that, as his widow, I can draw attention to his contribution.” In the film, the part of Charles is played by Matthew Macfadyen, and his fellow intelligence officer, Ewen Montagu, by Colin Firth. The pair’s deception involved dressing a dead vagrant as a Royal Marines officer, placing fake documents on him that pointed to the false invasion sites, and releasing the body offshore to neutral Spain. It was thought that the known Nazi sympathisers in Huelva were
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Alison Cholmondeley at her home in Wells, and Charles pictured in 1939 likely to be shown the secret papers before they were returned to the British. The hunch was correct, and reinforcements were subsequently moved to Greece and Sardinia, but not Sicily, which was liberated more quickly and with fewer casualties than were expected. Charles also saved lives by causing the Germans to misdirect their V-bombs, and was awarded an MBE for his intelligence work. He and Alison were married for 18 years until his death in 1982, four years after they moved to Wells. Alison remains active in the community, working for Citizens Advice and Wells
Community Network, and she is a member of u3a. She has already seen Operation Mincemeat, and says “it’s a cracking film”, although not always authentic to the period, and that Matthew Macfadyen is “pretty good”. “I think Charles would have been astonished that his first words in it, in mixed company when he’s 26, are ‘Jesus Christ’. He would have thought it blasphemy, and in those days in mixed company, people didn’t swear.” She added: “My son said ‘I hope they don’t make Dad a nerd’, and he isn’t a nerd. He’s the hero of the piece, really.”
Envisaged next steps with city’s Neighbourhood Plan Can you help in our shop? Our very popular and well stocked charity shop in Street would love to recruit new volunteers to help in the shop especially those prepared to man the till. Sarah the shop manager can give training and support with this. The shop is known for the friendly staff and happy atmosphere so if you would do a couple of shifts, or more, please contact Sarah at the shop on 01458 443108 – she will be delighted to hear from you. It is a great way to help our homeless cats and make new friends as well.
Glastonbury & Wells Cats Protection Email: gill@straymoggie.co.uk Telephone: 01749 850660 www.cats.org.uk/glastonbury
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Councillor Adrian I’Anson, Chair of the Wells Neighbourhood Plan Steering Group, explains the latest about the Plan AT their meeting on March 24, Wells City Council will be asked to approve the draft Neighbourhood Plan for consultation. By the time you are reading this, they will hopefully have done so. The Plan deals with heritage, housing, transport, retail, tourism and the environment. It is accompanied by: n A Wells Design Guide. n A Masterplan showing options for development of the three sites allocated in Wells for housing – land behind Tincknells store (25 dwellings); land
between the western edge of the Keward estate and the sewage works (120 dwellings); and the rugby club site on the Portway estate (80 dwellings). n A Housing Assessment for Wells. All these documents can be found on the recently revamped city council website by clicking on ‘Meetings’ and ‘Wells Neighbourhood Plan’. Consultation will be by circulation to all households of a brief resume of the Plan, an online opportunity to comment and public meetings. In order to avoid a clash with the election campaigns, the consultation is likely to be deferred until early summer. Watch this space.
The deadline for the May edition is April 13
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wellsvoice
April 2022
11
n NEWS
Walk will raise funds in friend’s memory LOCAL resident Matt Drew is walking from Wells to Westminster in April to raise funds for St Margaret’s Hospice in memory of Sam Holland. Sam, who was Head of the PE Department at Wells Blue School, died of cancer last year at the age of 50. Matt said: “We had been close friends for over 20 years and as a means of celebrating her life as well as thanking St Margaret’s Hospice in Taunton for the care they provided in her last few weeks, I am taking on this momentous challenge to raise funds, support and awareness for the charity.” He will set off from Wells Cathedral on April 23, and aims to complete the 150-mile walk at Westminster Abbey on May 1. When he arrives, he intends to deliver a handwritten ‘pilgrim’s message’ from the Diocese of Bath and Wells to the Dean of Westminster.
Matt Drew with Sam Holland, in whose memory he will be going on a 150-mile fundraising walk
Matt said that one of his fondest memories of Sam was “trying to keep up with her
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during the Shepton Park run”. Fittingly, he has been running regularly – including every day throughout January – in training for his forthcoming challenge. He says that the most mentally arduous part of the journey will be the 70-mile section in the middle between Melksham and Reading. “I’ll be tired, I won’t have any company, and if you’ve ever done long-distance running, it’s always the middle section that is the most difficult – that’s when you hit the wall. But I’ll just need to keep going; whatever the weather, regardless of how tired I am,” said Matt, an Account Manager at Integrity Print in Midsomer Norton. His fundraising goal is to raise £2,022 for St Margaret’s Hospice Care. Donations can be made by visiting his JustGiving page at justgiving.com/fundraising/ matt-drew22
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wellsvoice
12
April 2022
n NEWS Evening could be life-saving
Images taken by drone pilot Steve Witchwood Green of Hawkeye Aero while an assessment was carried out of the damage to the top of St Thomas’ Church spire
A DEFIBRILLATOR Awareness evening will take place at Tincknells Head Office at Cathedral View Offices, Wookey Hole Road, Wells, BA5 2BT, on Tuesday, April 5, at 5.30pm. There is a defibrillator on the wall at the entrance to the offices, and Kim Davey from the South Western Ambulance Service will be providing lifesaving information about the equipment. Those wishing to attend are asked to contact Jemma Flamsteed in advance if possible on 01749 683955 or jemma. flamsteed@tincknells.com, but can just turn up on the evening.
Church spire made watertight THE hole left at the top of the spire of St Thomas’ Church in Wells when Storm Eunice caused the tip to blow off has now been sealed. Steeplejacks from Sally Strachey Historic Conservation scaled the spire to cap it off and make it watertight, removing a loose stone in the process, and making safe other elements of decorative masonry that had been struck further down the tower. “They’re going to leave the ladder up, and the next thing to do is decide quite how to put all the bits of stone back together and repair the weathervane, and then sort out how to get it back up on the top of the spire again,”
Steeplejacks at work on the spire
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said Chris Jenkins, a Licensed Lay Minister at St Thomas’. He said that using a crane would probably be the easiest solution, though bringing in a helicopter has also been suggested. “To put scaffolding all the way up and then form some way of lifting it up is going to be very difficult,” he said. “It depends whether we can get a crane in. Our architect did suggest the possible use of a helicopter – watch this space.” Though the church has reopened, the area of path that was struck by the spire is still closed off because of the hole that was made. It is hoped that this will be repaired soon.
The defibrillator at the entrance to Cathedral View Offices
Club to hold two Easter Bingos GLOBE Carnival Club is holding two Easter Bingos this year. The first is on Monday, April 4, at Croscombe Village Hall, and the second is on Monday, April 11, at St Thomas’ Church Hall, Wells. Doors open at 6.45pm, eyes down at 7.30pm.
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wellsvoice
April 2022
13
n NEWS
Old Deanery back on market for £1.1m THE Old Deanery is available for sale again. The Grade I listed building on Wells Cathedral Green is being marketed by Savills, with offers invited in excess of £1.1 million. The property was initially put up for sale in 2019, when the asking price was £2.5 million. Despite interest from a number of prospective buyers, no sale resulted, and it was taken off the market. Originally the primary residence for the Dean of the Cathedral between 1230 and 1958, it became the diocesan offices and an administration centre for the Diocese of Bath and Wells. By 2020 it was no longer serving its needs effectively, and the organisation relocated to a modern office building at Cathedral Park. Commenting on its sale, James Millard, Head of Property and Glebe for the Diocese of Bath and Wells, said: “While The Old Deanery has always been a private property, it is a much-loved part of the local community, as well as an important piece of the city’s architectural history. Securing its future is of great importance to
us and we will be working closely with Savills to ensure that any offers we receive are considered and progressed with utmost care.” David Wild is a director for Savills, specialising in the sale of property across Bristol and Somerset. He said: “The Old Deanery is unquestionably one of the most beautiful and historic properties in Wells, situated in one of the most impressive locations, and, as such, its sale is of great significance. “It is a complex building, having been expanded and remodelled many times over
Events coming up at library
Oxfam mounts special display
ACTIVITIES at Wells Library in April: n Police Beat Surgery: Talk to your local PCSO at Wells Library on Saturday, April 9, between 10.30am and 11.30am. No appointment necessary. n Theo the Yellow Bird will be in Wells Library on Tuesday, April 12, at 11am. There will be a book reading and signing, book sales and lots of fun activities. For ages 3 and up – email wlslib@somerset.gov.uk to book a place. n Spring Tales with Beth Webb is on Wednesday, April 13, at 11am. Storytelling and colouring in for children aged 5-10. Book a place by emailing wlslib@ somerset.gov.uk. n Lego Club is on Saturday, April 23, at 10.30am. For ages 5 and up. Book now to avoid disappointment by emailing wlslib@somerset.gov.uk.
THE staff at Wells Library have invited Oxfam to mount a small exhibition in their main room. The Mid Somerset Oxfam Group (MSOG) has risen to the challenge and has prepared a display with three elements. First is Oxfam itself, with a brief picture of the international organisation. Second is a description of the local fundraising and campaigning activity undertaken by MSOG, including a challenge to visitors to join the group, so that they can be active in the worldwide fight against poverty. The third is about water and comprises an explanation of Oxfam’s history of coping with the shortage of clean water and decent sanitation in situations that people in this country can hardly contemplate. The exhibition can be seen in the library in Union Street between April 7 and 20.
The Old Deanery dates back 800 years
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positive future.” The Old Deanery Project, a community interest company backed by a number of local organisations, had previously tried to get The Old Deanery into community ownership. Project directors Paddy O’Hagan and Adrian I’Anson said: “The Old Deanery always was a public building. It could include residential space, host a restaurant and shop, international exhibition space and community work space. The listed Garden would be restored. “But can such a project pay its way? There are at least two possible buyers who have been in contact with the Diocese. They believe that with the right sympathetic development, yes it can. There will be no ongoing call on city council funding. “The Project Group is still here. Both possible buyers have expressed some interest in working with the Group.”
Picture courtesy of Savills
its eight-century history, for different uses. “While it is being sold in its current guise as an office building, there is potential for a myriad of uses, subject to planning consent, and I am delighted to work with the diocese to identify a buyer that will honour and preserve its legacy, while providing it with a
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wellsvoice
14
April 2022
n NEWS Teacher made Fellow of RHS
The Wells Cathedral Jubilee abseil was launched at Wells Cathedral by Bishop of Taunton the Rt Rev Ruth Worsley, Mayor of Wells Philip Welch, Dean of Wells the Very Rev Dr John Davies, instructors and event participants. Abseiling down the Cathedral’s North-West Tower will take place on June 4, 5, 10 and 12 in aid of the SOS Africa children’s charity. Find out how to take part at sosafrica.com/wellscathedralcharityabseil
Artist sought to lead workshop and call goes out to musicians AS part of the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations in Wells, there are plans to create a commemorative piece of community art. Participants at a drop-in workshop will be guided in the making of a tapestry or banner which will then go on display at a prominent site in the city as
Wells Quaker Meeting for Worship
Wells Quakers meet for worship on the second and fourth Thursday each month in the ground floor Council room, Wells Town Hall, Wells, Somerset BA5 2RB. All are welcome to join us. Doors open 1.30pm, Meeting for Worship is between 1.45pm and 2.30pm, followed by refreshments, a chance to ask questions and to get to know each other. We are part of Street Quaker Meeting, which meets Sundays at 10.30am. More information from Madeleine Page in Wells: 01749 674169 or www.quakersatstreet.org.uk (email: streetquakersclerks@gmail.com)
a permanent reminder of the occasion. Celebration organisers are looking for a local artist to lead the workshop over the course of the day on June 5. Email wowfest@timeconcerts. co.uk if interested. There will also be an opportunity for local musicians and performers to take part in an Acoustic Showcase on the Bandstand at the end of the day on June 5. Only limited slots are available, and applications are open now. Contact wowfest@ timeconcerts.co.uk as soon as possible if interested in being involved. The provisional programme for June 5 celebrations is for the Opening Ceremony to take place at 11am, followed by a procession at 11.30am down High Street and back to Cathedral Green. There will be entertainment and activities at Cathedral Green, Market Place and the Recreation Ground throughout the day. A number of choirs will be singing at various times,
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Joint Proclamation WELLS Town Crier Len Sweales will be announcing a speciallywritten Proclamation from the Town Hall balcony at 2pm on June 2. He will be joining hundreds of town criers around the country and 50 Pearly Kings and Queens to make the Proclamation heralding the lighting of the beacons later that evening for the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee. culminating in them all giving a rendition of Jerusalem on Cathedral Green at about 5.20pm. A special service God Save the Queen; Songs of Praise is then due to take place in Wells Cathedral at 6pm. The Wells Jubilee Celebrations are being organised by Wells Rotary Club working in partnership with Wells City Council, Wells Cathedral, Project Factory, TIME, Wells Voice and other local organisations.
CHRIS Eldridge, Head of History at Wells Cathedral School, has been made a Fellow of the Royal Historical Society (RHS) in recognition of the unique work he and his team have been doing in promoting the study of medieval history in the Sixth Form at Wells. “Medieval history tends to get neglected in British schools. A lot of teachers think it’s either incomprehensible or irrelevant to modern students. I hope the work we do at Wells studying and promoting it dispels this myth,” he said. Founded in 1868, the Royal Historical Society is the UK’s foremost society working for historians and history. Chris has written two books on the subject aimed for History Pre-U and A level students, Aenglaland: State-Building and Nation-Forging in AngloSaxon England 593-1002 and Imperium: The Fall of Antiquity and the Birth of Europe 2841118. Both of these have been published by Peripeteia Press, a publisher run by the school’s Head of English, Neil Bowen. The RHS is trying to increase its engagement with secondary level education and Chris will be involved in future initiatives for this sector. He has been invited to speak at the Historical Association’s forthcoming national conference in Bristol on May 13 about Making Medieval History accessible to Sixth Formers.
Hot Fuzz open air screening A SPECIAL open-air screening of Hot Fuzz will take place in April to mark the cult film’s 15th anniversary. Wells Film Centre and The Bishop’s Palace are joining forces again for the return of their 6th Annual Open-Air Screening on Friday, April 29. There will also be a Hot Fuzz walking tour on the day which visits many of the film locations. It will take place at 3pm on April 29 and cost £7 each, lasting about 90 minutes. To book a place for the Walking Tour, email guide@wellswalkingtours.co.uk
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wellsvoice
April 2022
15
n NEWS
WELLS LOYALTY
RD W E L L S LO YA LT Y C A
SHOPPING SCHEME
BISHOP’S EYE
A display at the museum will show the evolution of Wells High Street
Focus on changing face of city’s shops SATURDAY, April 16, sees the opening of a major photographic exhibition at Wells & Mendip Museum on Cathedral Green titled The Changing Shops of Wells in Photographs. The exhibition is a collaboration between the Museum, Wells City Archives, The Project Factory, the Civic Society and Somerset Film. On display will be hundreds of photographs of the retail area of Wells based on the area covered by the Simes Map of 1735. There will also
be old adverts from the shops throughout the years from about 1880 to the present day. People are invited to go along and share their memories of shopping and working in Wells, and the museum would be pleased to hear from anyone who has any photographs, old paper bags, receipts or memorabilia that they would like to donate or loan to add to a permanent archive to be created for future generations of shoppers in Wells. The exhibition will run until June 6. Admission charges apply.
Wells Loyalty scheme members Amba, Basil Powell Shoes, Bishop’s Eye, Brownes Garden Centre, Gallery Jewellers, London House, Mansfield Opticians, Microbitz Computers, Millicans Eye Centre, Peter Douglas of Wells, Protec, Rock House Dental Practice, Roly’s Fudge Pantry, Ron Thompson Carpets, Runway, Scribbles, Studleys Jewellers, The Changing Room, The Crown, The Grape and The Good, The Laundry, Wells Tourist Information Centre, Whiting & Son. To join the scheme, contact Robert Powell (robert.powell2@btconnect.com), Rob Bevan (rob@protec-wells.com), Louis Agabani (louis@bishopseye.com) or Alison Luck (luckalison127@gmail.com)
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Bishop’s Eye is a family-run, independent wine bar, restaurant and wine shop serving all-day charcuterie, cocktails and more. The Grade II listed building is full of character, making it a popular venue for private functions. Inside, the bar can accommodate up to 60 people, or for something more intimate, the first-floor dining room is suitable for 30 guests. This wonderful 15th-century room, with its floor to ceiling leaded windows overlooking Wells Market Place, is second to none as a location for a function. Whether it is a wedding, a reception, a birthday, a wake or just a get together, the bar is available for exclusive use. In the summer, you could have exclusive use of the Market Place. Up to 80 guests can enjoy this wonderful space in the centre of Wells, surrounded by some of the city’s grandest old buildings. The location of Bishop’s Eye also makes it the perfect place
for locals and visitors to stop for a coffee and pastry, light bites such as soup, pate and cheese, or more substantial offerings including our celebrated charcuterie boards. Our all-day restaurant uses the finest West Country produce. Eat al fresco in the Market Place or enjoy the relaxed experience in the dining room. So whether for a quick coffee, a meal, or a private function, we look forward to welcoming you. u Bishop’s Eye, 12 Market Place, Wells, BA5 2RB T: 01749 938180 E: hello@bishopseye.com W: www.bishopseye.com
LONDON HOUSE This is our third year in Wells, and what a three years it’s been! Perfectly situated at the top of the Market Place we have many lovely local and visiting customers who come back time and time again. Our stock is constantly changing and you will always find something different in our shop, from a large locally made piece of furniture to a tiny glass frog! We pride ourselves on sourcing and making great products at the best possible price. We had a busy time in January buying for the coming year, and new ceramics, cushions and faux flowers have all started coming in to the shop in the past few weeks, while our new Garden room is now full to the brim with flowers and planters. Our shop is bursting with lovely accessories and furniture for yourself and your home, be SPONSORS
Chalmers HB and Wells City Council
sure to pay us a visit when in Wells. The shop is open from Tuesday to Saturday, from 10am4pm. u London House, 16 Market Place, Wells, BA5 2RB T: 01749 677274 E: mandykeable@hotmail.co.uk Two members of the Wells loyalty scheme will be featured regularly in Wells Voice. A list of all the businesses currently participating in the scheme is given on the left
16 WELLS VETS CASE FILES
wellsvoice n NEWS
April 2022
Sky well again after crop gets cropped Name: Sky Age: 2 years Breed: Bluebell Chicken Likes: Long grass Dislikes: Mud SKY and Rusty are two pet chickens who normally live in the family garden but persistent wet weather – and their enthusiastic scratching – meant it got too muddy for them, so they came to stay with “Grandma” for a bit, with her flock of backyard chooks in Wells. Within a few days, Grandma noticed that Sky’s crop – a sacklike area in the chest where hens store food before it passes into their stomach – had become full and firm, she was eating less and had become a bit quiet and listless. Although these were only subtle signs, Grandma is an experienced poultry keeper so she brought her in to be checked over. The crop can become blocked, often with long stems of grass that form a net and trap other food. This means it doesn’t empty as it should, and becomes
Grandma had noticed that something was wrong with Sky
Wells Classic Motorcycle Club won the 2nd Best Club Stand Award at this year’s Bristol Classic Motorcycle Show bigger and harder – like it had with Sky. When we saw Sky, her crop was the size of a grapefruit. She was otherwise quite well, but left any longer would have started to get weak and dehydrated, so we decided to do a surgical procedure to empty the crop. She was given some pain relief by injection and we then used a face mask to give her a general anaesthetic. We made an incision in the skin over her swollen crop, and opened it up to find a massive knot of grass! We removed the grass and sutured the crop back together to form a smaller sack, which should help reduce the chances of another blockage forming in the future. After some more pain relief and antibiotics, Sky was ready to go home the same evening. Grandma was brilliant at post-op nursing care. After a couple of days of just water, Sky was eating some soft food. A few days more and she started to eat some whole grains, gradually getting back to eating normally and having the full run of the chicken enclosure again with her sidekick Rusty. Sky will always be prone to crop impactions from now on but Grandma’s prompt action and excellent nursing care means Sky has survived to peck another day…
Wells Vets, 3 Cathedral Avenue, Wells, Somerset, BA5 1FD
Tel: 01749 678420
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Display impresses at motorcycle show WELLS Classic Motorcycle Club won the 2nd Best Club Stand Award at the 2022 Bristol Classic Motorcycle Show held on February 26 and 27 at the Royal Bath & West Showground. The club’s display of classic bikes was supported by a Folly Farm theme which included a well-stocked Farm Shop, Cafe and B&B Bunkhouse, plus ‘The Barn at Folly Farm’ which housed some fine bikes and memorabilia. Bikes that were also amongst the awards included a 1946 Triumph Speed Twin (Highly Commended) owned by Wendy Dyer, and a 1952 Aeromacchi 125cc Model M Monsone, owned by Geoff Warren, which won The Most Technical Interest award.
Throughout the weekend the ‘scarecrow with a rattle bucket’ plus the ‘farmer’s wife’ in the shop/cafe and ‘farmer’ providing coffee and cake for a donation raised £1,130.80 for Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance. This was achieved with much help and support by club members. The Wells club is well known for its annual Tortoise and Hare run which attracts entrants from far and wide, and which also raises much needed funds for Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance plus the Blood Bikes. This year’s event is over the weekend of July 15-17. All details are at www. wellsclassicmotorcycleclub. weebly.com. New members are always welcome.
Invitation to attend chamber AGM THE April meeting of Wells Chamber of Commerce & Tourism will start with the AGM. There will be a review of activities over the last year, and election of the committee for the coming year. All current chamber members and anyone interested in joining is invited to attend. The meeting will be held in the Council Chamber, Wells Town Hall, on April 4 starting at 6pm, and is expected to finish by 7.30pm.
Any member who would like to do so can put themselves forward for one of the following posts: Chair, Vice-chair, Treasurer, Secretary, Event Organiser and Membership Co-ordinator. The level of commitment is not onerous, and serving on the committee is a rewarding way of giving back to the community. More information about the chamber of commerce is available on the website: wellschamberofcommerce.co.uk
Email: sales@wellsvoice.co.uk
wellsvoice
April 2022
17
n NEWS
Call for WAC entries from local artists ORGANISERS of Wells Art Contemporary (WAC) are calling for entries from local artists. The work can be in any medium: painting, sculpture, drawing, printmaking, photography, installation or video, and the closing date is April 25. WAC provides an exciting opportunity for artists to enter an international open competition. The successfully shortlisted artwork will have the prestige of being included in an exhibition at Wells Cathedral, from July 15 to August 14. Footfall to the Cathedral is estimated at 25,000 over the summer, whilst the virtual exhibition can be viewed worldwide. In addition, all shortlisted artists will be in the running to win a wide range of awards. These include cash prizes, an art residency in Provence, gallery feature opportunities, one-onone mentoring, and more.
Sanctuary by Leah Hislop, winner of the Somerset Art Works Prize 2021 The WAC 2022 shortlist will be selected by a prestigious panel of artists: Matthew Burrows MBE, contemporary artist and founder of the Artist Support Pledge; Dale Lewis, contemporary painter represented by Edel Assanti; and
Nana Shiomi, artist-printmaker whose work is held in collections including the Victoria & Albert Museum. Artists can enter up to four works and there is the unique chance to create specific installations inspired by the
magnificent surroundings, to be held within the Cathedral and its grounds. Somerset artist, Leah Hislop, won the Somerset Art Works Prize last year with her woven site-specific installation Sanctuary, inspired by the concept of sacred geometry and Wells Cathedral itself. The installation was built by weaving and knotting intricate threads between the yew tree in the Palm Churchyard. Leah encourages any artist to take part. “Winning the prize has given me the confidence that I am stepping in the right direction in my art practice,” she says. “It has definitely given me the self-assurance to say ‘when in doubt, go for it anyway’.” The deadline for online submissions for WAC 2022 is Thursday, April 25. Entry fee is £15 per work. Full details and online applications are available at www.wac.artopps.co.uk
Whole School Open Day Saturday 14th May 10.00am To book your place: https://wells.cathedral.school/openday admissions@wells.cathedral.school
Got News? Call 07906 499655
Email: news@wellsvoice.co.uk
wellsvoice
18
April 2022
n NEWS
Group piece together figure of bishop
IN February, the group that made the figure of Bishop Beckynton back in late 2021 for a special community mural came together again to reassemble the biscuit fired pieces and to learn about the glazing process. Having taken all this in, they applied the glazes that they chose to complete the areas that they previously modelled. These pieces will now be fired up to 1100 degrees and again reassembled for inspection. Meanwhile, the other groups will go to Philippa Threlfall’s Black Dog studios in Wells to glaze the two other figures: Dean William Turner and Herbert Balch. When completed, the glazed figures will be assembled into a backing of fibreglass and resin to form panels which will be fixed to a wall at Wells & Mendip Museum. Underneath the figures will be two panels giving the
Philippa Threlfall, left, and group members with the now ‘biscuit fired’ figure of Bishop Beckynton laid out on the table; and the figure covered with glazes Picture (left): Ann Cook figures’ names and dates; it is hoped that pupils from Stoberry Park School will decorate the
clay tiles that surround the writing. This will say that People of
Wells made this mural in 2022 the year of the Queen’s Platinum jubilee.
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wellsvoice
April 2022
19
n NEWS
Hope that new trishaw service could open up outside world A NEW mode of transport could be coming to Wells that will allow older people and those with disabilities to enjoy a gentle journey around the city in the fresh air. Wells Community Network (WCN) is hoping to start a free trishaw service, a trishaw being a form of bicycle with a seat at the front for one or two passengers and a fully qualified pilot behind them pedalling. Not only will it be a chance for people to get out and about, but it will also give them an opportunity to tell stories and reminisce with the pilot as they go. The inspiration for this initiative comes from Cycling Without Age, a movement started ten years ago in Denmark that is now worldwide. Nicki Hall is leading the
project for WCN. She said: “Our vision is to give the opportunity for people who are isolated or have mobility problems to remain an active part of society and the local community, and provide a chance to enjoy sharing their story in the environment where they have lived their lives. In doing so we will help to build bridges between generations and reinforce trust, respect and the social glue in our society.” As it will be a free service, WCN is looking for new partners to help sponsor and fund the programme. They could include care homes, GP or medical centres or local businesses. For further information, email nicki.hall@situssoft.com A team of volunteers will also be needed who would like to pilot the bike rides.
Lidl aiming for bigger store LIDL has submitted plans to build a larger store in Wells. An application to replace the Travis Perkins buildings next to its existing base on Strawberry Way with a new store was turned down by Mendip District Council in December because of concerns about flooding. The company has now put forward proposals for a new, bigger store to replace the current one, with the parking area extended by 46 more spaces.
Charity Quiz Night
WCN volunteers try out the trishaws in Weymouth, which already operates the scheme
A QUIZ Night is being held in aid of this year’s Mayor’s Charity, Macmillan Cancer Support, in Wells Town Hall on Sunday, April 10, starting at 7.30pm. Teams of up to six, £3 per team member. Raffle prizes welcomed. Booking essential by phoning Terry on 01749 672342. u From the Town Hall, page 25
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Charity cheque handed over
01749 349007
Got News? Call 07906 499655
www.featherbedhomecare.co.uk Email: news@wellsvoice.co.uk
www.feath
wellsvoice
20
April 2022
n NEWS Food Trail call to veg growers
Reminder about Bloom contest
ARE you someone who likes growing vegetables and enthusing others to do likewise? If so, then the Wells hub for the Somerset Food Trail would love to know. The Food Trail will run from July 15-24 and will showcase local and sustainable food producers. Susie Weldon, one of the Food Trail organisers, said: “We are so keen to include and honour the contribution made by vegetable growers in their gardens, allotments and other growing spaces. “For example, you might be willing to show your veg plot to a small group of those new to vegetable growing or perhaps to take part in a talk about your particular approach to veg growing.” Contact Susie through susie.weldon@icloud.com
GARDENERS are being reminded to get their entries in for this year’s Wells in Bloom competition. Categories are: Private house front garden; Private house back garden; Patio garden including boxes, troughs, hanging baskets, pots; Front of Hotels and Public Houses; Courtyard of Hotels and Public Houses; Business Premises; Communities (any two or more adjacent houses, communal gardens, flats or sheltered housing). For more information and an application form contact Councillor Denise Denis, Town Hall, Market Place, Wells, BA5 2RB. Email: d.denis@wells.gov. uk Entries can also be made online at surveymonkey.co.uk/r/ wellsinbloom The closing date for entries is May 31.
Residents at Crandon Springs care home in Wells have a new visitor – Labradoodle Teddy, who belongs to visiting volunteer Jenny. Natalie Deverall, General Manager at the home, said: ‘Our residents all love animals, but especially dogs and we are delighted to have such a gentle, loving and friendly addition to the Crandon Springs team. He causes a great deal of excitement amongst both residents and staff and he really lifts everyone’s spirits.’ Canine fans at Crandon Springs were also delighted at the return of Crufts, and enjoyed watching the dogs in action on TV.
Cam Tucker, last year’s head boy at Wells Cathedral School, and his friend Louis Rozsa raised more than £1,300 for Beat Eating Disorders by completing the 4x4x48 challenge. The Oxford Brookes University students ran four miles every four hours for 48 hours, finishing at 12.45am on March 7. Cam, seen on the left in the picture above, said of their support for tackling eating disorders: ‘I’ve seen first-hand the damage it can do and the support for it is very underfunded, so we wanted to do something to try to help make a difference and raise awareness.’
SITUATIONS VACANT
Job Opportunity do you have: • Proficient and accurate typing skills • Excellent command of grammar/spelling • Common sense (not so common!)
Rewards: • Lovely working environment in the centre of Wells • Flexible working hours • Salary, pro rata, commensurate with experience
Bowley’s Garage VEHICLE TECHNICIAN / MOT TESTER REQUIRED We are looking for a skilled person to join our workshop team. You may or may not have a current MOT tester licence but will have experience in a car service and repair environment. Competitive rates of pay. To find out more, call 01749 674554 or drop in to see us at Westfield Road Trading Estate, Wells, BA5 2HS
PLEASE RING 01749 372149 FOR FURTHER DETAILS To advertise, contact Andy on 01749 675157
Email: sales@wellsvoice.co.uk
wellsvoice
April 2022
21
n OPINION
‘The third lockdown was the turning point’ Autumn Goulding, a student at Wells Blue School, gives her view about the pandemic and its impact on teenagers I REMEMBER New Year’s Day of 2020. I was sitting on the couch, squeezed between my parents as we watched the firework display on TV. I entered 2020 with high hopes and an inextinguishable sense of optimism, smiling and bright-eyed. Two months later, February 29. I was in the car with my dad, the radio humming in the background. Despite increasing news coverage of this “coronavirus”, and scientific pessimism from my mother (who has a masters degree in public health), I refused to let my whole life be derailed by this new Chinese virus. China was far away – why would that affect me? When the news came on, Dad listened intently. The newscaster confirmed the first English death of Covid-19, and I could hear the negativity in her voice. It can’t be that bad, I thought. Fast forward three weeks to March 20. It was to be my last day in school for months. I thought that would be my last day of school for the year. How did it all go so wrong? Over the next two years, thousands of teenagers across the globe were exposed to a living nightmare. We all underwent huge uncertainty; as my journal entry from January of 2021 said: ”It’s like the world
Covid has disrupted school life and been traumatic for adolescents has fallen into an inescapable pit of doom.” I believe I speak for lots of English adolescents when I say the first few months of 2021 were the worst months of their lives. In the first lockdown, it felt new and it was terrifying, but we managed to distract ourselves with regular reassurances from the government that all would be back to normal soon. It was bearable, because it was a novelty. In November 2020, when the second lockdown occurred, it served as a grim reminder that a pandemic still existed, despite being back in school. It was the third lockdown that was the turning point. When we sat on the couch on January 4, Boris Johnson’s grave face staring from our TV screens and breaking the inevitable news, something changed. It wasn’t thrilling or exciting anymore. We were tired, but above all, we were angry. We’d been lied to, again and again. That it would be
back to normal soon enough. But there I was, my face in a pillow, bawling my eyes out at the sheer unfairness and exhaustion of it all. We lived in constant fear. Amongst our grandparents, friends, parents, siblings – there was that persistent feeling that if we fell prey to the hands of biology, there could be catastrophic results. It was horrific, and adolescents nationally suffered from increasing mental health problems and huge amounts of social isolation. We now had the effects of a global pandemic weighing on our shoulders. When schools reopened in March 2021 and life commenced again, the Education Minister acted as if nothing had happened and gave us the usual amount of workload like we hadn’t undergone a surreal, traumatising two years. Giving Year 10s and Year 12s little academic support despite not
having a stable school year since 2020 seems like a disaster on the horizon for students. Yet, the uncertainty isn’t over. Even now, over a year after we were told this public health crisis would end, cases in The Blue School are on the rise once again and teacher absences are so frequent they’re rotating years in and out of school so fewer lessons are in need of a cover. But even in these times of unending worry, there is one prominent attitude from the past few months; most of the public don’t care anymore. Now that a vast percentage of the population is vaccinated, worry of death has simmered down, and no one should be expected to follow the rules the government can’t even stick to. Boris Johnson and his team of “experts” are making no attempt to slow the rampant spread. Though the vaccine rollout was successful, it is the only tool still in use to protect the vulnerable. All other rules have been scrapped. The government has never cared, but they have simply stopped pretending. It is clear they have a “do as I say, not as I do,” attitude, as evidenced by scandals surrounding “partygate”. They are sacrificing countless lives in exchange for a return to normalcy. Yes, we’re tired, yes, we want this to end, but for that to happen the government has to acknowledge it still exists, and take steps to eradicate it fully. Ignoring it is never the answer.
SITUATIONS VACANT
Session Leader required The Lawrence Centre is looking for a creative and enthusiastic person to help deliver engaging and fun activities for our members. Experience in the care sector is not essential and personal care is not part of the role. The Lawrence Centre is a vibrant charity based in Central Wells providing day opportunities for our community’s older people, including those who are socially isolated and those living with memory loss. We offer flexibility, competitive remuneration and career development opportunities. Please contact us on 01749 676839 or at mcharlesworth@thelawrencecentre.org.uk if you would like to register your interest in this role.
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Secretary for Wells Chamber of Commerce Paid position, competitive rate, up to 6 hours a month including one evening meeting. Do you have the skills and time to serve your local Chamber of Commerce in this important role? Tasks include taking and distributing minutes, coordinating incoming communications, keeping the website meetings calendar up to date and adding news and events to the website (training in this will be available). Apply in writing to: info@wellschamberofcommerce.co.uk Closing date: Monday 18th April
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wellsvoice
April 2022
23
n NEWS
Visitors impressed by work that goes on at Lawrence Centre THE Lawrence Centre in Wells welcomed a number of special visitors to one of its sessions in March. The charity provides day opportunities for the community’s older people, including those who are socially isolated and those living with memory loss and health issues. It is an opportunity to meet new friends, take part in a variety of activities and have fun as well as enjoying a nutritious lunch. Calling in to see for themselves the good work that The Lawrence Centre does were Annie Maw, HM LordLieutenant of Somerset, and Thomas Sheppard, The High Sheriff of Somerset, along with Mayor of Wells Philip Welch. “They were so impressed with The Lawrence Centre and the services it offers to our local community; they enjoyed engaging with some of our members and joining in the creative activity our Session Leader Janette had prepared,” said Centre manager Maggie Charlesworth. The Centre, just off Chamberlain Street, is currently
Lord-Lieutenant of Somerset Annie Maw and High Sheriff of Somerset Thomas Sheppard are among those pictured at The Lawrence Centre looking for more people to join its team of Session Leaders. Maggie said: “The ideal candidate would be a creative and enthusiastic person who can help deliver engaging and fun activities for our members. Experience is not essential as a full induction and training will be provided. Personal care is not part of the role.” During the pandemic, the Centre launched an Outreach Service which it is continuing
to build. It provides one-to-one sessions for those looking for support in their own homes, helping to prevent social isolation and giving carers a much-needed break. People who would like to register interest to work there, are interested in the Outreach Services/groups, or have any other queries should contact Maggie on 01749 676839 or at admin@thelawrencecentre.org. uk
Concert to mark 30th anniversary TICKETS have gone on sale for a concert at The Bishop’s Palace to celebrate 30 years of the Freewheelers Emergency Voluntary Service (EVS). The evening of music and fun will take place in Palace gardens on Saturday, May 21, from 6.30pm. Compered by Freewheelers EVS patron and BBC Points West TV presenter Alex Lovell, it will feature performances by the Bristol Concert Wind Band and local rock band Drifftwood. Freewheelers EVS is run by volunteers and provides a free out-of-hours courier service for the NHS. It is funded entirely by public donations and sponsorship. It transports blood, patient notes, X-rays, breast milk, and other medical supplies. It also delivers blood products to two local air ambulance bases every night of the year. Concert-goers are invited to take a picnic to enjoy while they listen to the bands. The Bristol Concert Wind Band play a wide range of musical styles from classical and traditional military band music to jazz, swing and ‘pop’. Drifftwood are a highenergy five-piece rock and blues band. Tickets cost £15 and can be bought at bishopspalace.org.uk
Music centre has momentum Work at Annexe progressing The latest from the Wells Rocks team ACTIVITY at Portway Annexe is gaining momentum. Among the groups getting ready for its opening, the Wells Rocks team are preparing for the planned rehearsal facilities. It looks like it will be a busy but exciting runup to Easter. In addition to establishing affordable rehearsal and teaching spaces, there is an ambition to support the creation of original, contemporary music in Wells. We are organising a conference for interested parties. Numerous ideas are being put forward and we want to see how these could be followed up to make the most of the new community-based music centre. The aim is to stimulate
The revamped Portway Annexe will be ready to open in the next few weeks, report Councillors and Joint Project Leaders Louis Agabani and Adrian I’Anson and create opportunities for musicians at all levels. If you are in a band, or would like to be, let us know. Let’s start building the community. Tell us what you would like to do. We would like to help connect people with common interests. We can establish a virtual noticeboard on the wellsrocks.org website. Ideas for the AV studio are also taking shape. Videomakers and choreographers are encouraged to get in touch so we can create an adaptable facility that has broad appeal. If you are interested in any of the above, please contact us by emailing info@wellsrocks.org
Got News? Call 07906 499655
WORK continues on the Portway Annexe and we are planning to open soon after Easter. We can report that: n Work on the car park is virtually complete. There are 20 spaces in total available and applications will be considered on a first come, first served basis, with a waiting list system in operation. If you are interested in taking one, please contact Claire Woodland, our Assistant Town Clerk, at tcassist@wells.gov.uk n Many groups have signed up for courses and events within the Annexe – to book space please contact Kevin Westwood at thm@wells.gov.uk or Alex
Westwood at comms@wells. gov.uk n The computer infrastructure is in place and Strode College will be recruiting for courses of all sorts soon after the beginning of May. n A disabled pedestrian access into the site to link with the disabled-friendly building will be completed soon. n Furniture and equipment for the cafe is on order so that those using the Annexe can mingle and share their experiences. n Alex Westwood will be based at the Annexe so that there will be a presence and a welcome. By next month we will have a date for the formal launch to which all will be welcome. Louis Agabani l.agabani@wells.gov.uk Adrian I’Anson a.ianson@wells.gov.uk
Email: news@wellsvoice.co.uk
wellsvoice
24
April 2022
n NEWS
Actors still needed as auditions begin for community drama THE first round of auditions for the Wells Theatre Festival community production of Twelfth Night took place on March 13 and casting is almost complete, but the organisers are on the search for young actors to play two of the lead roles. Ros Johnson, Artistic Director, said: “Over the years we have built a strong ensemble company of actors from the local community and of course, now some of the younger members have gone off to drama school or in the case on one of our actors, is off getting married. We need to find new blood. Previous experience of performing live is not necessary, I can bring out the natural talent in performers, but a love of theatre and William Shakespeare certainly helps.” Meanwhile the rest of the Wells Theatre Festival is falling into place with an ambitious
Wells Community Theatre company members Richard Crowe, Lee Housley and Artistic Director Ros Johnson, and Richard, Lee and Andy Sully at auditions for Twelfth Night programme of events in July with something for everyone. The Festival team is looking forward to announcing full details next month when tickets go on sale. If interested in performing in Twelfth Night, email ros@wellstheatrefestival.org
To find out about volunteering for the Festival or to join the mailing list, email alex@wellstheatrefestival.org For sponsorship and programme advertising opportunities, email neil@wellstheatrefestival.org
Asylum patient Eliza Huntley There are also some exceptional sculptures carved from the fallen trees on the site by local artist Peter Bolton.
A NEW art club is being launched: The Portway Artists. Meetings are being held every Tuesday afternoon from 1.30pm3.30pm at the Connect Centre in Portway. Members are promised a warm and friendly welcome and the chance to try out many different kinds of materials, included in the fee of £4 weekly. There will be opportunities for visits to exhibitions and to take part in other artists’ demonstrations. People interested in joining should ring Peggy McDonald on 01749 675098 or Enid Beech on 01749 938309, email enidbeech36@msn.com There are also plans to set up a Facebook page.
Table Sale of little ones items
Hospital cemetery opening gates on Sundays THE Mendip Hospital Cemetery will be opening to visitors on Sunday, April 3, from 11am to 4pm, and will then be open every Sunday throughout the spring and summer until Sunday, September 25. This special and unique place was the cemetery for the Somerset and Bath County Pauper Lunatic Asylum from 1873 until 1963. There are 3,000 patients and some staff buried here, most of the graves marked with a simple iron, numbered post and no headstone. The site has been preserved with respect, love and dedication by volunteers who research the history of those buried there and tend the grounds and chapel in which they are laid to rest.
Launch of new weekly art club
Visitors will be able to discover the history and some of the photographs and stories of their lives, how they came to be admitted to the asylum and their treatment there, and dispel many of the preconceived ideas and myths about life in a Victorian asylum. A large number of the patients in the asylum came from Bath and villages around Somerset and there is an exhibition in the cemetery chapel which further explains the history of the asylum. Public support and donations are essential to preserve the cemetery. See the Friends of Mendip Hospital Cemetery website for more details or their Facebook page, Mendip Hospital Cemetery.
GORGONS Carnival Club is holding a Little Ones Table Sale at Wells Football Club on Saturday, April 16, from 1.30pm4.30pm. Tables can be booked to sell items ranging from maternity wear and pushchairs to toys, books and clothes for 0-10-yearolds. To book a table or for more information, call 07828 903966. Entry to the sale will cost £1.50, children free.
Open-air operas THIS summer, Opera Brava will perform two operas in the grounds of The Bishop’s Palace: Tosca (July 14) and The Barber of Seville (July 15). Project Factory is working in partnership with the Palace to bring this new cultural venture to Wells. People are invited to take a picnic and make an evening of it. Doors open at 6pm, the shows start at 7.30pm. Tickets are available via the Palace website.
Announcement of community projects given funding First solo show IN June 2021, Mendip District the successful projects have now study to develop and build a Council invited applications for funding projects that support community resilience, builds capacity and promotes wellbeing. The Communities Fund panel met in winter 2021, and
been announced. They include: Coxley Community Land Trust – Provide a pathway for safe access to the community land; Wells Skatepark Group – Consult and undertake a feasibility
To advertise, contact Andy on 01749 675157
new skatepark; Elim Connect Centre, Wells – Provide a peerfocused support session; Wells Almshouses – Restoration of old chapel; Wells Theatre Festival – Drama festival in the Wells area.
GBS Fine Art is exhibiting new paintings by Gill Rocca from March 18 until May 28. Within and Without is the first solo show at the new gallery in Sadler Street, Wells.
Email: sales@wellsvoice.co.uk
wellsvoice
April 2022
25
n FROM THE TOWN HALL
Events lined up to boost fundraising A SERIES of entertainments are lined up to support an important local need. The pandemic forced the NHS to concentrate on Covid care. So many people have been faced with agonising waits for cancer diagnosis and treatment. Three members of my family were lost to this disease so I have committed to raise £15,000 for the Wells branch of Macmillan Cancer Support. With the help of local Macmillan volunteers led by Mark Tobin we have reached £11,000 and I have arranged another four events to hit the target. 1. Sunday, April 10: Quiz run by Terry and Lesley Ricketts in the Town Hall at 7.30pm. £3 per person, book on 01749 672342. 2. Easter Saturday, April 16: Cool jazz with the Grey Dogs in front of Wells Town Hall, 3pm. 3. Saturday, April 30: Concert with supper in Wells Town Hall with crooner Tim Pitman and covers band Junk Male. Tickets
The ZZ Birmingham Band, top, are one of the two acts playing for free on May 2, while The Grey Dogs will play for free on April 16. Donations to Macmillan will be appreciated
£20 from Town Hall. Doors open 7pm, sit down at 7.30pm. 4. Monday Bank Holiday, May 2: Jazz Collective concert in front of Wells Town Hall. Two bands, Newton’s Toad and the ZZ Birmingham Band, 2-4pm. Please come to as many of these events as you can for a brilliant charity which supports local cancer sufferers. Mayor of Wells Philip Welch Email: p.welch@wells.gov.uk u Music and supper, page 34
A mid 20th century ruby, emerald and diamond ring by Cartier Sold in March for £24,800
LONDON SPECIALIST AUCTIONEERS
JEWELLERY VALUATION DAY at Wells Town Hall Market Place, Somerset BA5 2RB
Friday 8th April at 10am-2pm Our experienced specialist Laura Smith, will be available to offer confidential valuations, FREE OF CHARGE and without obligation, with a view to possible sale in our Mayfair auction rooms
A Colombian emerald and diamond necklace Sold in March for £14,880
BY APPOINTMENT ONLY To book please ring 020 7016 1700 or email jewellery@dnw.co.uk A diamond dress ring by Sidersky, circa 1950 Sold in March for £14,880
DIX NOONAN WEBB 16 Bolton Street Mayfair London W1J 8BQ
Got News? Call 07906 499655
www.dnw.co.uk Email: news@wellsvoice.co.uk
wellsvoice
26
April 2022
n ON THE BEAT
Keep dogs under control so sheep stay safe SPRING is here! Our days are News longer, the flowers begin to from bloom and we welcome new life from small chicks to bouncing the local baby lambs. With the arrival of policing the new spring lambs, our city’s surrounding fields will be full of team sheep with their young, meaning with we, as responsible dog owners, PCSO must do our bit to keep them safe. A dog off the lead is always Samuel unpredictable regardless of the White training it has been given, which is why it is so important to have your animal on a suitable lead, as may reasonably be expected and that you are confident that to cause injury or suffering to you have control of them. the livestock or, in the case of According to NFU Mutual, reports of dog attacks on livestock females, abortion, or loss of or diminution in their produce, rose by 20 per cent last year in then that dog and the person in the South West, but a dog does control of it is liable. not always need to physically n A staggering 73 per cent of attack livestock in order to dog owners admitted to letting commit an offence. Livestock their pets roam free when in the worrying also falls under the Dog countryside. (Protection of Funerals Livestock) Act Bath & Wells ad.qxp_Layout 1 07/12/2021 15:45 Page 1 1953 and means that even if a dog n 49 per cent of dog owners admit their dog doesn’t always chases livestock in such a way
come back when called. n NFU estimate that approximately £230,000 worth of animals were killed last year by dogs alone. These statistics can dramatically fall simply by placing our pets on a lead. A simple act to help keep our countryside a safer place. Here in the Mendips we also have a Public Space Protection Order (PSPO) in place. This
covers the whole of the Mendips including all rural settings, towns and the city itself. Part of this order states that a person in charge of a dog is required to keep the dog on a lead if directed to by an authorised person. Failure to do so could result in a £100 fine. Making sure our dogs are safe and under control is our responsibility. Let’s keep our city and its surrounding areas safe.
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Call Rod on 01749 670100 or email: rod@wfs.me.uk www.wellsfuneralservices.co.uk
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We at Wells Funeral the last funeral delivered. Services offer affordable In 2021 we delivered funerals to the good folk more funerals than in the of Mendip, Somerset and two years before, things beyond. are moving from strength Since setting up the to strength, we look at business in September delivering exactly what 2016, we pride ourselves the client wants. We have on delivering funerals delivered Hindu and that people want; Pagan services, services establishing our client’s from Wells Cathedral to needs, wants and Downside Abbey, and Wells Funeral budget is of paramount Services owner of course non-religious importance to us. We services too. Rod Major like to get to know We deliver woodland our families and so for us that burials and meadow burials, and means a trip to Wells market, I will be happy and honoured to and to be visible to one and all, help in any way. on a Wednesday from January If you want a “DIY”, do to November you will find me it yourway, that’s fine too, if on my market stall. Reaching you require the direct route, out to help with advice, and we we deal with the guys on TV like to talk about anything and pure cremations too. So, talk everything, it’s more getting to to us for a far-reaching funeral know you. solution, but remember we don’t When selecting a funeral do funerals, but we deliver a director try to use an celebration of life! We are on call independent like myself and for these 24 hours a day, 7 days a look at their reviews, either on week, 365 days a year. their own website or on Google n Contact us: Call us now on reviews. You’re only as good as 01749 670100 or 01761 233555.
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wellsvoice
April 2022
n NEWS
Legal guidance with Chubb Bulleid
Sessions of group singing start again THE Golden-Oldies Charity has restarted its Sing&Smile sessions in England after they had to stop because of Covid. Sessions include one on the first Friday of each month at the Elim Connect Centre, Portway, Wells, from 2pm-3pm. The fun social activities aim to combat isolation among older adults, with participants singing along to popular tunes by artists like Sir Cliff Richard, Dusty Springfield, Elvis and Petula Clark. When they were forced to stop, the charity introduced GoldiesLive, online sofa-singing sessions for people to join in at home. GoldiesLive has continued for the past 18 months with sessions on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Goldies founder Grenville Jones said: “We were very aware of the fact that many of the people who attended our daytime sessions prior to Covid lived lonely lives. If they were isolated before then Covid most certainly
A Goldies sing-along in progress added to that loneliness. www. goldieslive.com has been fantastic at bringing the fun and the music into people’s homes during lockdown. “I am delighted that we are now able to bring back many of our daytime sessions with more in the months ahead. We will however continue with GoldiesLive sessions through to the end of this year, so we can keep on supporting those who remain at home.” Anyone who enjoys a singalong to the hits of the Fifties onwards is invited to the sessions at the Connect Centre. Those attending are asked to make a £3 donation to Goldies’ work.
Charity lunch makes return AFTER a Covid-enforced break, Wells SOUP will be back with renewed urgency on Saturday, April 9. Charities and other good causes have suffered from lost fundraising opportunities in the past two years. Now the removal of Covid restrictions will see Wells Theatre Festival, Wells Dementia Action Alliance, Project Factory and Wells Foodbank each “spread their word” by telling the audience about their work at the grant-funding lunch in the Connect Centre, and all will go away with much-needed money. “Bowley’s Garage has very generously provided the £350 match-funding once again,” said SOUP organiser Ross Young, “which together with the £5 taken on the door from each attendee will make up the pot which will be shared among the four good causes. “With delicious soup provided by the Blue School from vegetables donated by
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Bowley’s Jason Tunnicliffe presents their £350 cheque to SOUP organiser Ross Young Waitrose, bread rolls from Burns the Bread, red wine from Sante and white wine, beer and soft drinks from Morrisons plus flowers for the tables from Micky in Wells Market, SOUP is truly a community event. “Please come along for the 12.45pm start at the Connect Centre on Saturday, April 9, to give your support to these worthy causes who’ve waited so long to present – it will make their day.”
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Debunking myths about wills By Sandra Moores
A WILL is a legal document which sets out how you wish your estate to be distributed on your death. It ensures your assets are divided in accordance with your wishes rather than legislation and allows you to decide who will look after your children and how they are financially provided for. Writing your will with a solicitor helps ensure your estate is dealt with in a tax-efficient way and can give you peace of mind knowing that your wishes have been communicated by a professional to avoid any mistakes. Here are some common myths about wills: My spouse will inherit everything anyway Unfortunately, this may not be the case. Without a will, your spouse could find themselves sharing everything in your estate with your children or grandchildren. On the other hand, if you are not married, you are referred to by law as Cohabitees. Cohabitees don’t inherit anything under the intestacy rules, even if you have been together for many years. You may also wish to ensure that your assets stay within your family. For example, you may wish to prevent your partner from leaving any of their inherited assets to a new partner – special trusts can be inserted in a will to prevent that happening. I am not wealthy enough to need a will Many people underestimate their
assets and are sometimes worth more when they die. Additionally, a will can be used for a variety of purposes entirely unconnected with the amount of money you have, such as to set out who will look after your children when you die. I do not need to worry because I made a will years ago Your will should be reviewed whenever your living or financial circumstances change and it’s good practice to check it at least every five years. It’s also worth noting that marriage normally revokes an existing will.
It is best to talk to a solicitor specialised in this area of law I can save money by writing my own will Do-it-yourself legal documents can be tempting for their accessibility and costs but unfortunately, they can cause serious distress for your loved ones if poorly executed. It is best to talk to a solicitor specialised in this area of law who will be able to consider your situation, wishes and any complications such as tax. They’ll be able to make the process as stress-free as possible. n Sandra Moores is a Private Client Executive with Chubb Bulleid, which has offices in Wells, Street and Somerton. Phone 01749 836100.
Offices in Wells, Street and Somerton Tel: 01749 836100
Personal legal services for you, your business and your family www.chubb-bulleid.co.uk Email: news@wellsvoice.co.uk
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n SPORT
April 2022
Official opening of new section of path
Over 16s finalists Ali and Seb; and 15 and under finalists Morris and Kingston
Tough matches at second tournament BADMINTON THE second ever Wells Junior Badminton Tournament in recent times was held on Sunday, March 6, in the Wells Cathedral School sports hall. The first was held before the Covid gap, and it is hoped to make it an annual event in future. Some great badminton and tough matches were played with most of 29 juniors players looking exhausted by the end of it. There were two ages groups: 15 and under, and over 16s, with each category split into two ‘boxes’. Each player then
played every person in their box to determine two finalists in each category. After the singles had concluded, the event moved on to the doubles tournaments where players were split into two groups based on perceived ability which made for some very close games. Results: Over 16 singles winner: Ali; Over 16 singles runner up: Seb; 15 and under singles winner: Morris; 15 and under singles runner up: Kingston; Doubles group 1 winners: Blake and Toby; Doubles group 2 winners: Kingston and Morris.
Winner decided in Order of Merit series GOLF THE latest Pro Shop Stableford at Mendip Golf Club saw 80 competitors and a very close run affair. Winning with 38 points after count back was Wayne Dryburgh. This was the final event in the Pro Shop Order of Merit series with Graham Colbourne winning overall. Three of Mendip’s Ladies have been selected for the Somerset County Squad for the upcoming season – being Aimee Sawyer, Ellen Reakes and Ffion
Richardson, the latter two still being Juniors. Men’s Captain James Boyce has announced that just over £8,000 has been raised for his nominated charity, the Forever Friends Appeal at the Bath Royal United Hospital. A new initiative has been set up by Sue Needham, Ladies Captain Elect Allison Rumming and Dee Garnsworthy to ensure that new Lady members have ‘buddies’ to play with in the early weeks, and then get to know each other better by playing together.
Molly Podiatry / Chiropody COMFORTABLE FEET Molly
BSc Podiatrist/Chiropodist Accredited member of The Institute of Chiropodists and Podiatrists SERVICES l Corns and Callus removal l General nail cutting l Thickened problem nails l Ingrowing toe nails l Cracked heels l Verrucae l Athlete’s foot l Bunions l Heel and Arch pain l Flat feet l Footwear and footcare advice and many more To arrange a consultation contact Molly: Mobile: 07960 530293 Email: molline01@gmail.com Mendip Court, Upper Breach, Wells, BA5 3DG HOME VISITS ALSO AVAILABLE
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A NEW section of a multi-user path in Dulcote was officially declared open at a special celebration on March 4. It marked the latest stage in a key section of the Strawberry Line which forms part of the Somerset Circle, now in construction. The path connects Wells to the Charlie Bigham’s food kitchen at Dulcote quarry. Volunteers, plus landowners Somerset County Council, Charlie Bigham’s, the planning applicant Greenways, Cycleroutes, and officers and members from Mendip District Council, were thanked for their efforts on the path. Additional planting, landscaping and benches are to be installed shortly. The council invested £70,000 towards the works which were commissioned by Greenways and Cycleroutes, as well as a further £15,000 from Charlie Bigham’s S106 money. Preparatory clearance work was completed by the volunteers of the Strawberry Line, who have taken on the responsibility for maintenance of the path as well as tree planting. The overall project was completed by local contractors, Goldings. Special guests were invited to the opening ceremony, including Her Majesty’s Lord Lieutenant for Somerset, Annie Maw, Chairperson of Mendip District Council, Councillor Helen Sprawson-White, and representatives from the district
DJS
council, AONB and Somerset County Council, Charlie Bigham’s and Strawberry Line volunteers. Councillor Ros Wyke, Leader of Mendip District Council, welcomed everyone to the opening and presented the volunteer lead, Richard Jones, with a range of landscaping tools. Cllr Wyke said: “Connecting this section of path was an important milestone and is the result of commitment and collaboration over many years. “The grand opening was an exciting opportunity for all stakeholders to meet and see the results of our hard work. “It has inspired us to continue with our goals of opening other sections of the Strawberry Line in Mendip and beyond.” Annie Maw and John Grimshaw, founder of Sustrans and who now runs Greenways, planted a Hornbeam tree at the site as part of the Queen’s Green Canopy and also to mark the 50th anniversary of the Mendip Hills AONB. The Strawberry Line is part of the Somerset Circle which, when completed, will form a 76-mile traffic-free circuit. As part of its corporate priorities, Mendip District Council is working to develop sections of the Strawberry Line with the aim of connecting communities, reducing car travel, cutting carbon emissions and promoting active lifestyles in the district.
D. J. Simpson Engineering Ltd
Westbury-sub-Mendip, Wells, Somerset, BA5 1EZ 01749 870688 djsimpsoneng@hotmail.co.uk
MOT centre motor and general engineering WE CATER FOR THE FOLLOWING MOT CLASSES:
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wellsvoice
April 2022
n NEWS
29
Focus on health with Bluebird Care
Spend time doing what makes you happy and enjoy better health By Jenny Atkins
Sante Wines has begun opening later on Friday evenings at its new home in Heritage Courtyard, Wells. Every table at the wine and coffee house was taken for the first evening opening on February 25, when customers enjoyed wine, cocktails, cheese and charcuterie. Owner David Schroetter, pictured, said: ‘It was a very successful evening, we will continue to open Friday evenings changing the theme regularly. The kitchen is now open serving breakfast and lunches from Tuesday to Saturday offering a tasty range of dishes.’
Celebration night for salons’ staff AN awards ceremony was held at the Noco hair and beauty salon in Coxley in February to celebrate the efforts of staff at the salon and its sister salon in Bristol. The eight categories were judged by independent hairdressers, and Noco creative director Noel Halligan said: “The standard of work has been incredible.” Noel and business partner Corey Taylor took over the former Sense salon last year, since when it has been refurbished, including the addition of a Beauty Zone. Haircuts include a head massage as standard, and Noel said: “We don’t just want to be
EVER stop to think what makes you happy? Happiness is the emotion we feel when we see someone we care for, we achieve a goal, feel content or satisfied in our lives. Happiness is also the thing we want most for the people we love the most. That’s why it matters so much. But it isn’t easy to maintain a healthy, positive emotional state. Anger, worry, and hostility increase the risk of developing heart disease; as people react to these feelings they also experience raised blood pressure which is not good for our health. Happiness is a positive emotion that has been linked with better health, longer life, and greater well-being. Being happy promotes a range of lifestyle habits that are important for overall health. Happy people tend to eat healthier diets, with higher intakes of fruit, vegetables and whole grains. Being happy also improves sleeping habits, which is important for concentration, productivity, performance and maintaining a healthy weight. Feeling happy may help keep your immune system strong,
which will help you fight off the common cold and chest infections and also protect the heart by reducing blood pressure, a major risk factor for heart disease. Recognise what makes you happy. This could be: Hanging out with friends, visiting the countryside, getting a good night’s sleep or reading a great book. Whatever it is, push yourself to achieve it and put time into your routine to ensure you get escape from the day-today stresses of life and do the things you love. There is evidence that happiness is contagious, happier people help others around them to become happier too. The main question to ask yourself is: Are you living a happy life? If not, why not? What’s stopping you spending time around the people who make you smile, go places you enjoy and do things you like? Push yourself and imagine the best as you deserve a happy life. There is always a way to ensure a positive outcome even if a little or a lot of support is needed to help achieve it. n Jenny Atkins is Care Manager of Bluebird Care (Mendip), email CMMendip@bluebirdcare. co.uk, phone 01749 372197 or 01458 570015.
Model Danielle Sewell with Noel Halligan of Noco on awards night a hair salon. We’re all about experience.” Members of the Unite union, the Labour Party and members of the public took part in a protest against the Government’s Health and Care Bill in Bridgwater on February 26. They were also protesting at cuts in mental health provision, especially the planned closure of the St Andrews Ward in Wells. The 14 beds there are due to be relocated to Yeovil later this year, and local people were asked to sign the petition to Somerset Clinical Commissioning Group urging it to reverse its decision to close the ward. Nearly 4,000 people have signed the petition so far.
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April 2022
n MESSAGE FROM THE MP
People of Somerset stepping up again
I THINK it is only right that I write this column about the situation in Ukraine. The war has had a profound effect on everybody, and it is fair to say that my role as Minister for the Armed Forces has been extremely challenging over the past few weeks. Despite a rapidly changing situation, I have been able to get back to Somerset and spend some time in Wells, holding a constituency surgery in the city and speaking to local people while I was there. The overriding theme of the conversations I had were questions of how people can help those suffering in Ukraine. Just last week (I am writing this in late March) I had the privilege of meeting four brave Ukrainian MPs who made the difficult decision to leave their country for a few days to meet those in
News from Wells MP James Heappey ‘The Ukrainian people who are going through so much right now are deeply touched by the reaction of Britain’
government and in the media. They continued to stress that the best thing to do is to donate money if you can to either the Ukrainian Government (https:// war.ukraine.ua/donate/) or the Ukraine Crisis Relief Fund (www.globalgiving.org/projects/ ukraine-crisis-relief-fund). The people of Somerset stepped up during the coronavirus pandemic and are doing so again and I can tell you that the Ukrainian people who are going through so much right now, are deeply touched by the reaction of Britain. More than 100,000 people also signed up to sponsor a Ukrainian refugee on the first day the scheme was launched, which is remarkable and another sign that we will stand by our friends as they fight so heroically against Vladimir Putin. Somerset County Council
has also pledged £250,000 to help refugees, carrying on the county’s fine track record on supporting those needing refuge in this country. As well as my role in Government, I will continue to support councils in our quest to help house as many people as we can from Ukraine, and I know my team have been working extremely hard to help constituents with family there. It is hard to comprehend the images we are seeing on our televisions every single day, but I am sure I am not alone in being overwhelmingly inspired by the leadership of President Zelensky, and the sheer bravery of Ukrainian soldiers and civilians. I do – of course – hope that this does not have to be the case much longer. Putin must fail. And we are doing all we can to make that a reality.
Tincknell Fuels Oil & Gas Boiler Servicing & Installation Oil Storage Tank Installation
Heating Oil deliveries from your Local Company
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wellsvoice
April 2022
n IN DAYS GONE BY
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With Clare Blackmore
Affection for coach and its ‘galloping steeds’ IN 1877, in a poem called Reminiscences, written by a gentleman of the Vicars’ Close, are the lines: With health and vigour on my side In eighteen hundred and thirty five I was driven in style to Bath by John, On the fast ‘Swifsure’ from the Swan. The Swan referred to was the Swan Hotel in Sadler Street and the Swiftsure was the daily coach and four which was driven from Wells to Bath and back daily by Mr George John the proprietor of whom it was said “no man had more friends and fewer enemies”. The Swiftsure coach was described as a “well-appointed vehicle which departed from the Swan with all its attendant grooms and ostlers and was timed to do 12 miles an hour but on much of the road it was in actuality more like 13 miles an hour”. William James Tate, a native of Wells, writes in 1898 of his memories of the Swiftsure. “The Swiftsure with its galloping steeds has left the Swan Hotel, whirled its way along by the Deanery, past the Chapter House and onward, onward through ‘Turkey’ onward and upward to the Bath Road. “It is a toilsome ascent to Bath but the Swiftsure is well appointed and harnessed with good horse and driven by an experienced coachman. It
An old advert for Swiftsure that appeared in the Bath Chronicle performs its journey well and in excellent time. “In due course it will return and you will see it madly careering down the hill, rattling, dashing and crashing until it reaches the Swan admired of all beholders. “I remember as a boy watching the arrival of the Swiftsure at the Swan. The coach stops with a rattle of harness and a grating of wheels, how the horses steam and yet how much more picturesque it looks than a railway station platform and an incoming train. “How we cling to the old coaching days still. Mr John I recall as being a tall, rather aristocratic figure amidst the hurry, bustle and confusion of loading the coach with passengers and their luggage.” In 1848 an advertisement for Mr Hancock’s preparation of Honey and Balsam treatment for the hair was given a testimonial by a Mrs C of Wells as to the swift delivery of the product which was despatched from
Bath to Wells on the Swiftsure coach. In 1849 the Bath Chronicle reports that: “A gentleman met on the road the Swiftsure coach which runs daily from Bath to Wells, and upon passing it, his horse started off at a frightful pace down Dinder Hill and he was thrown off his steed into the hedge. Mr John, who is the driver and proprietor of the Swiftsure, immediately pulled up his horses and rendered him assistance. Luckily the gentleman only sustained bruises.” In 1855 an item appeared in the Wells Journal about the discontinuance of the Swiftsure coach. “Notice has been given by Mr John that he intends giving up his coach between Wells and Bath. This intelligence will be heard with regret, while we cannot pretend his prudence in not persevering in a losing game. “The opening of the railway to Frome interfered with him above Shepton and then the line
from Glastonbury took off many of his Wells customers and the intended opening of the Wilts and Somerset line to Castle Cary by no means improved his prospects in the coaching business. “Mr John has been wellknown to the travellers of the West of England affording us one of the best-appointed coaches ever to be found and notwithstanding the dangerous nature of the road it has been his almost unparalleled good fortune never to have met with an accident. “Mr John and his coach will often come to minds among us as pleasing recollections of former days.” Later that year, 1855, a “For Sale” notice appeared: “Lately running the Swiftsure coach, horses and a quantity of harness. The coach is in first rate working condition and being sold in consequence of the coach being withdrawn from the road on Saturday last. This, and 18 fast running horses, can be viewed at the Swan Hotel prior to the day of the sale. The horses can be recommended for single harness.” Also, in 1855 in a testimonial to Mr John, a public subscription list was set up at Stuckey’s Bank in the High Street for the purpose of making a presentation to Mr John of the Swiftsure coach. Mr George William John died on March 6, 1859, having left Wells in 1855 to become proprietor of the Clarence Hotel in Bridgwater.
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City of Wells Town Hall Various rooms to hire for: Conferences, Seminars Fairs, Shows, Exhibitions, Marriages, Receptions, all types of Meetings and Local Group Classes Very reasonable rates
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April 2022
n WHAT’S ON Society showcasing two choral works DRAMA, pathos, energy, surprise… The April concert by Wells Cathedral Oratorio Society showcases two significant choral works from the Classical era with Mozart and Haydn. And the Society is delighted to be welcoming back to Wells the English Chamber Orchestra, along with soloists Elizabeth Atherton (Soprano), pictured above, Helen Charlston (Alto), James Oxley (Tenor) and Grant Doyle (Bass). The first performance of the evening will be Joseph Haydn’s Theresienmesse (Maria Theresa Mass). Music Director, Jeremy Cole, said: “Although less frequently performed than its well-known companion, the Nelson Mass, the Theresienmesse is a work of great energy and variety, and full
of Haydn’s trademark surprises. Composed immediately following his two great oratorios, The Creation and The Seasons, Theresienmesse is named after Maria Theresa, consort of Francis II, who was the soprano soloist at performances of both of these works. “The second piece in our programme is Mozart’s beloved Requiem. Surely one of the greatest pieces of choral music, it was written in declining health just months before his own death. This is one of his most heartfelt and haunting works, containing moments of huge drama contrasted with extreme pathos.” The concert takes place in Wells Cathedral on Saturday, April 2, starting at 7pm. Tickets priced £30, £26, £19 and £14 are available online at www. wcos.org.uk (or on the door if available).
Lessons on collage A SERIES of workshops entitled Life in Collage are being held
Ship getting smellier
Life in Collage workshops are being held at Heritage Courtyard Gallery & Studios on one Saturday each month throughout the year at Heritage Courtyard Gallery & Studios in Wells. They are being led by Irene Dickson, who will cover a new subject for creation and imagination at each session. The first day workshop in mixed media and collage took place on March 19. The cost for the day (10.30am to 4pm) is £60 per person. For further details and to book a place on the workshops, call Irene on 07808 089592 or email neire@live.co.uk
WITH Easter holidays just around the corner, people are looking forward to the fragrance of freshly cut grass and sprouting flowers as spring gets into full swing. However, life aboard the SS Great Britain did not smell quite as sweet. In fact, some of the odours of a 19th-century passenger ship would be enough to send someone overboard. Brunel’s SS Great Britain, the ‘world’s smelliest museum’, already includes hundreds of sights, sounds and smells. However, this Easter, they are inviting visitors to rate the smells and help them choose new ones. Some of the new smells under consideration include the rich scents of dark chocolate and brandy, the homely aroma of roast beef, and the pong of boiled cabbage. Brunel’s SS Great Britain can be followed on social media for a look behindthe-scenes as they prepare for the holidays, and book tickets on their website to join in the fun: ssgreatbritain.org/easter
Get ready to experience hundreds of sights, sounds and smells at Brunel’s SS Great Britain, with brand new scents to discover on board this Easter. Plan your voyage at ssgreatbritain.org/easter
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April 2022
33
n WHAT’S ON
Variety of family-orientated activities for Easter holidays A RANGE of family-friendly activities will take place at The Bishop’s Palace in Wells over the Easter school holidays. The holiday fun kicks off with a Family Dragon Trail (April 8-24) where intrepid explorers will explore the 14 acres of gardens, including the Dragon’s Lair Play Area, in search of dragons from all over the world. Trails can be collected from the Palace’s Ticket Office with a special prize on the way out. On Tuesday, April 12, and Tuesday, April 19 (11am-3pm), the Community Garden will be hosting a Make A Wildflower Seedbomb workshop. Seed bombs originated in New York City in the 1970s as a way to encourage wildflowers in the city. On April 14 and 21 (11am and 1.30pm), storyteller Beth Webb will be celebrating the arrival of spring with family fun, spring stories and colouring. And for the Easter weekend (April 15-18), a special Easter egg trail will lead visitors through the gardens looking for hidden Easter eggs – can you find them all? The trail can be collected at the Ticket Office and there will be a small prize on the way out. Raptorcare will be hosting flying falconry displays on
P i l o g a Fi t Essential Mindful Exercise Core & More Functional Fitness Classes www.healthtaichi.co.uk www.pilogafit.co.uk John Beasley 01749 672482
JANE STATON YOGA YOU DON’T NEED TO BE TRENDY, BENDY OR ZEN FOR YOGA
The Dragon’s Lair is the perfect place to exercise little legs Monday, April 18, for the Palace’s Medieval Falconry Day. At 12pm and 3pm Tony, the master falconer, will be hosting flying displays which will illustrate how and why these birds would have been used in medieval times. Between displays visitors will also have the chance to handle some of the birds. The 14 acres of Gardens
will be open daily throughout the Easter holidays (9.30am5.30pm) and the Dragon’s Lair is the perfect place to exercise little legs. There is also a choice of drinks and snacks at The Bishop’s Table cafe, which is open daily. Family Easter activities are all included in standard admission, including The People’s Ticket.
Tales of dragons on St George’s Day ST George’s Day will be marked at The Bishop’s Palace on April 23 when the Palace’s official Dragon Slayer, Lady Elizabeth Dragonsblood, will be telling tales of how Bishop Jocelyn slew the fearsome beast that lived on Worminster Sleight in 1206. She will also be conferring knighthoods on any visitors who wish to join the fight against evil dragons, plus dragon colouring sheets and hints on how children can write their own dragon stories. She will be accompanied by Agent Green who will be live via video link from the secret base at Dragon Conservation Headquarters, captivating everyone with her thrilling
th Tai Chi Heal
Lady Elizabeth Dragonsblood will share her knowledge of dragons on April 23
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Dragon Tales from around the world. Between stories she will share her knowledge of dragon management: feeding, stabling and veterinary ailments. From the first Welsh Red to the great yellow dragon of China, each 45-minute show at the Palace will be packed with vivid folktales and legends. All dragon-related activities at the Palace are suitable for age 8+. The live link for stories will be at 11am and 2.30pm. To add a musical note to St George’s Day activities, from 12pm Somerset folk duo Nathan Lewis Williams and Caelia Lunniss will be performing on the South Lawn of the Gardens.
Friendly & fun Yoga Classes Tuesday eve 6 to 7pm and 7.15 to 8.15pm Thursday morn 9.30 to 10.30am Methodist Church, Southover, Wells, BA5 1UG Try your first lesson for free Come and join us! TO BOOK OR FOR MORE INFO JANESTATONYOGA@GMAIL.COM WWW.JANESTATONYOGA.CO.UK 07951 313917
ZEST & ZEN WELLNESS
TUESDAYS Pilates 9.15am Pilates Seated for the Older Adult 10.30am WEDNESDAYS Barre 5pm • Pilates 6pm THURSDAYS Pilates 9.15am • Barre 10.30am All above classes at Wells Town Hall FRIDAYS Pilates 9am. Online via Zoom All classes mixed ability and prebooking only. Contact Sally at: zest2zen@gmail.com
TAI CHI Connect Centre, Wells Mondays 6pm – 7pm £5 per class Bob 07791 291886
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April 2022
n WHAT’S ON
Final acts join comedy bill REGINALD D Hunter, Spencer Jones, Aaron Simmonds, Olga Koch, Sean McLoughlin, Sunil Patel and Babatunde Aleshe have been announced as the final acts to join the bill for Wells Comedy Festival 2022. The festival takes place in Wells from Friday, May 27, to Sunday, May 29, when the city will play host to 40 comedy shows at a variety of venues. These shows include four gala night performances, each with their own surprise line-ups. These acts join the already announced Harry Hill, Phil Wang, Al Murray, Shaparak Khorsandi, Isy Suttie, Mark Watson, Mike Wozniak, Lou Sanders, Paul Foot, Mark Thomas, Nick Helm and many more. Al Murray, Harry Hill and Mike Wozniak already have sold-out shows, and tickets for Phil Wang, Lou Sanders and Isy Suttie are limited.
Burton film, Will Bloom returns home to care for his dying father Edward, who has a penchant for telling unbelievable stories. Will is determined to find the truth behind his father’s epic tales. More at wellslittletheatre.com
Music and supper Reginald D Hunter and Spencer Jones will be at Wells Comedy Festival Ben Williams, Founder of the Wells Comedy Festival, said: “We’re thrilled to announce the new additions to our 2022 lineup. No offence to previous years, but it really does look like our best line-up yet. We can’t wait for May.” Tickets are on sale now from www.wellscomfest.com
Singing workshop THE International Music Exchange have rescheduled their ‘Come & Sing Ode to Joy’ workshop to Saturday, June 18,
in St Cuthbert’s Church, from 2pm-6pm, conducted by Matthew Redman. All singing enthusiasts are welcome. Unable to produce Beethoven’s 9th Symphony in 2020 or 2021, the plan is to perform the full work in celebration of the 200th anniversary of its first performance at WOWFest: Wells Orchestral Weekend 2024. In the meantime, WOWFest will create a special Community Chorus to perform works by Mozart and Mendelssohn alongside orchestra and soloist in Wells Cathedral on July 16. Rehearsals start on July 2 and all local singers are invited to participate. Visit www. wellsyouthmusicfest.co.uk or email wowfest@timeconcerts. co.uk for further information.
Choir in concert THE next concert of Wells’ popular chamber choir, the Swan Singers, is on Saturday, April 9, at St Thomas’ Church. The choir, under their director, Tricia Rees-Jones, is singing a programme called Northern Lights which was originally scheduled for April 2020. Works by contemporary composers from Scandinavia, including Arnesen, Gjeilo and Pärt, are being performed, together with British composers, Elgar and Maxwell Davies. Perhaps the highlight will be a performance of the Gloria by Frøy Aagre for choir and saxophone with Will Rees-Jones. The concert starts at 7pm. Tickets are £10 and are available at the door.
Little Theatre show THE spring show at Wells Little Theatre is Big Fish, being staged from May 2-7. Based on the 2003 Tim
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WELL-KNOWN local band Junk Male and classical / pop singer Tim Pitman will be performing at a Mayor of Wells Fundraising Evening in aid of Macmillan Cancer Support. The event will take place at Wells Town Hall on April 30. Doors open at 7pm, sit down for 7.30pm. Tickets are £20 to include supper, and are available from the Town Hall or MC Promotions. For further information, call 07710 743642. Brunel’s SS Great Britain, the ‘world’s smelliest museum’, already includes hundreds of sights, sounds and smells. However, this Easter, they’re inviting visitors to rate the smells and help choose new ones! Experience the good, the bad and the ugly scents which wafted through the 19th-century ship. Find out more and book tickets at ssgreatbritain.org/easter
Board games at pub WELLS Board Game Group will meet at the Globe Inn, Wells, on April 6 and April 20 from 7pm9.30pm.
Reading sessions PEOPLE are invited to “be part of a bigger story” by attending sessions of the Shared Reading group that meets on Fridays at Wells Library in Union Street from 2pm-3.30pm. Anyone interested can just drop in to enjoy listening to a story and poems. There is no charge, no booking needed and no pressure to talk or read.
Weekly dance nights WELLS Folk and Barn Dance Club meets at Dinder Village Hall on Wednesdays from 7.30pm9.30pm. Members £3.50, visitors £4. Tel: 01749 674920.
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n AROUND THE SOCIETIES WELLS CIVIC SOCIETY JESSE, two giraffes and a very weary Royalist. Ask young writers which is the most important page, or even sentence, in their stories or novels and they will generally say it’s the last. Why? Because that’s where the climax is reached, the loose ends tied up, where all becomes clear and closure is achieved. Important, yes, but ultimately wrong. The first page, or sentence, is the most important. This is where interest is aroused, attention grabbed and curiosity stimulated. If this frisson is not ignited, that last page will never be reached; in fact, the first page may never be turned over to the second. The same principle can apply to the title of talks, and the first sentence of this report is the intriguing one given by Antonia Gwynn, church warden and parish administrator at St Cuthbert’s, Wells, for her talk to Wells Civic Society at their March meeting. Antonia gave us a pictorial and verbal romp through, as the song says, a few of her favourite things, in this remarkable parish church. Antonia did not, for the most part, dwell on the large and famous, iconic features that abound in St Cuthbert’s. But Jesse had to be an exception. He is still a very recognisable fragment among the internationally famous 450 or so that date to the 1400s but were rediscovered in 1848, having been broken up at the time of the Reformation, and used as builders’ rubble. Starting life as key to the Tree of Jesse rherodos, which would then have been radiant in its rich, vibrant medieval colours, he lives on, along with other figures, as an object of modern interest, scholarship and admiration. By way of contrast, what of the two giraffes? They feature in a Victorian 1870s-ish stained glass window, depicting Noah’s ark and, of course, have other companions, such as elephants, among their somewhat humorous number. This brings us to the weary Royalist. He is Valentine Tryme, who died in 1660 and the poor chap’s commemoration begins, “Worne out with busnesse and disease, here’s one laid down to take his ease...” And so it goes on in poetry which is not of the highest quality but very affecting in is
Angels at St Cuthbert’s Church, Wells, as featured in Antonia Gwynn’s talk to Wells Civic Society way. Then there is the tribute to the person who was not the organist but the organ blower, and did this faithfully for 40 years before dying in 1931. What other treasures Antonia brought her audience. There are angels all over the place, but especially those in the magnificent roof, who look down on the congregation with rather enigmatic expressions. The pulpit is an impressive structure, with its carved biblical stories clearly illustrating the narrative, such as Jonah and the whale and Samson opening the lion’s mouth. Antonia introduced an array of things which she finds interesting and appealing, not necessarily the best known, and which she loves to share with others. At the next meeting of the civic society, professor David Thomas, canon theologian at Wells Cathedral, will be speaking about the fascinating and significant relationship between Christianity and Islam. This will be on Wednesday, April 13, at Wells Museum, Cathedral Green, and further details of the evening or the society in general can be found on the website, www.wellscivicsociety.org.uk or from the chair, chris.f.winter@ btinternet.com Richard Hanks WELLS ANALYTICAL PHILOSOPHY SOCIETY FOR ten years or more, before Covid, once a month, a chatty and argumentative audience of about 30-35 met in Wells Museum from 10.30am-12.30pm to engage with a philosophical topic presented by one of the members.
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Debate has resumed at the first of three trial meetings, on Monday, March 21. Two more will follow: on Tuesday, April 5, and Tuesday, May 3. We break for coffee and biscuits at half-time, and close at 12.30pm. Notes are usually circulated beforehand, and/or made available at the meeting. No prior knowledge of academic philosophy is expected. Just turn up on the day or contact Alan Hobbs – alanchobbs@gmail.com WELLS TUESDAY WI WE are now Wells Tuesday WI, as a new sister WI – Wells Monday WI – will meet on the third Monday of each month starting in March. We hope women on our waiting list will take the opportunity to be part of this exciting new adventure and wish President Sharon every success. It’s great there is such demand in Wells for the friendship and opportunities that the Women’s Institute offers. President Anne reminded us that April’s meeting will include the AGM and encouraged people to consider standing for the committee, and to be ready to propose and second others. Our sculpture made from spectacles, inspired by the campaign to raise awareness of the signs of ovarian cancer, is now on display in a town centre optician’s window. Plans for a grand picnic in Wells at the end of May to celebrate the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee are being discussed. Other social plans include the first ladies singles dinner; the growing cinema group involving people going to Wells Film Centre and discussing the film over a drink after; and buying
tickets to see comedy festival shows together. Other groups are busy as usual with walking netball, gardening, photography, crafting and at least two book groups. Jane reminded people that costume jewellery is still being collected for upcycling and resale to raise funds for Yeovil Hospital’s breast cancer appeal. Our speaker was Lesley Barber from Keepers who told us about her journey from teaching Art and Design in secondary schools to running her lovely showroom and workshop at 25 St Cuthbert Street, where she transforms furniture with beautiful paint to give it a new lease of life. Lesley’s shop features a waiting room of items waiting to be upcycled with new colours, either by customers themselves or using her bespoke service. Lesley reminded us of a few design trends from recent decades and explained that some are experiencing a revival, albeit with a new twist – stencilling is making a comeback but with a sharper finish. People often stencil ivy in kitchens, and fish in bathrooms. Grey was very popular during lockdown but people are now buying more colourful shades. She also makes lampshades from fabric remnants, and encouraged members to try her workshops. We meet on the first Tuesday of each month. Our next meeting will be on April 5 at Wells Museum. More information can be found on our Facebook page: facebook.com/Wellssomersetwi Veronica Howe WELLS MEN’S BREAKFAST WELLS Men’s Breakfast meets on the first Saturday of every month except August. We welcome men of all ages to a good English breakfast and a talk by a guest speaker. Meetings are at the Connect Centre, start at 8am and end at about 9.30am. There is no formal membership – just book in by answering the monthly email, or by telephone. The cost is £10. The next breakfast will be on Saturday, April 2. Our speaker will be Professor John Cleland CBE. Professor Cleland will be Continued on page 36
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April 2022
n AROUND THE SOCIETIES From page 35 tackling the subject of World Population Control. This will be a stimulating and potentially controversial subject that will give us plenty to think and talk about. If you are not already on our mailing list and are interested in attending this, or any of our future meetings, send an email to wmb.bookings@btinternet.com or telephone 01749 675312. WELLS FLORAL ART CLUB CLUB members and guests welcomed Jenny York as our demonstrator on Tuesday, March 8. Jenny returned to Bristol after many years working in the Foreign Office. When she started training to be a demonstrator, her friends exclaimed that she must be Barking Mad, hence the title of her demonstration. After delays because of the pandemic Jenny became a qualified area demonstrator last year. Jenny began with a traditional parallel design of tulips, sunflowers, agapanthus, marigolds and hypericum berries. This was followed by a modern design of manipulated phormiums and craspedias. Next Jenny reflected her love of the countryside. Her container made of bark was filled with foliage from the hedgerows picked from a friendly farmer’s field together with spray roses, antirrhinums, bourvadia and lilies all in shades of pink. This was followed by a design of chrysanthemums and wax flowers in a round bowl. Lastly Jenny used scraps of coloured velvets to make an interesting container into which she inserted
One of the Barking Mad designs by Jenny York
test tubes. These she filled with multicoloured gerbera and limecoloured sticks which made for an eye-catching design on which to close the afternoon. Debbie Coburn gave the vote of thanks and Janet Avery made the teas. Our next demonstration will be on Tuesday, April 10, at 2.15pm. Coral Gardiner, national demonstrator, will present The Beauty of the Season. We meet at St Thomas’ Church Hall, Wells. All are welcome. Jenny Jones WELLS U3A WELLS u3a groups are gradually starting to meet up again in person with only a few still making use of Zoom. Art Appreciation held their last Zoom meeting in March where they watched a film from the Frick gallery in New York on Ingres’s Comtesse d’Haussonville, after which those attending studied many of Ingres’s paintings and sketches of his work. Thankfully someone has come forward to organise the Garden Visits group and has arranged an extensive programme starting in May with a visit every month through to September. The Out and About group celebrated the start of spring, getting together for a most enjoyable lunch at the Courtyard restaurant at the beginning of March. This replaced their Christmas meal that was postponed due to obvious reasons. Another of their activities was a fun skittles lunch at The Venue in Wells accompanied with a fish and chip lunch. The monthly talks have started up again being held at the Museum. In March people were fascinated by the talk by David Boag, a natural history photographer, titled An African Safari. This was of particular interest to members of our digital photography group. The Local History talk in March was given by John Crockford-Hawley who is a retired teacher from Westonsuper-Mare. He is a historian, writer and lecturer. He called his talk A History of Weston-superMare: more than Candyfloss and Donkeys. Well, the title said it all this time as most members held the popular view of Weston-super-Mare that it’s a
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Some of the u3a committee after their last meeting at Wells Golf Club Victorian seaside resort, largely created by the railway, but soon learnt that in fact, by the 18th century Weston was already a popular resort and tourists were coming in significant numbers long before Isambard Kingdom Brunel steamed into town. And to add a little context, even the name, as currently written, is ancient – from the quill of a medieval Wells Cathedral clerk. After the machinations of Henry VIII and the tragedy of Othello the Shakespeare Group decided to start 2022 on a lighter note with the comedy Twelfth Night. After that instead of another play we watched a DVD called Being Shakespeare, a oneman show beautifully performed by Simon Callow. Our next play will be Henry IV Part 1. We are aware that the Covid virus is still with us, and are limiting numbers at the moment. Appreciating Literature is a group of people who love to read. We devour a book and meet once a month to discuss our findings and feelings. We listen, we learn. We leave the session having shared thoughts and very often gain a completely different view of the book. These groups are just a taste of what is on offer within Wells u3a who welcome new members at any time, to join any of the great variety of groups available. U3a is for people who have time for themselves. There is no need to be retired as the title may infer (university of the third age). Our u3a is run by an enthusiastic committee of members but can only serve for a certain amount of time and therefore are always looking for fresh new blood with bright new ideas. Go to www. u3asites.org.uk/wells/home to find out more. Ann Brown, Pat Cousins, Pamela Bruce-Lockhart and other group leaders
ST THOMAS WOMEN’S FELLOWSHIP OUR March meeting started with Tai Chi led again by John Beasley who so kindly comes each year; he is now a firm friend. After tea and coffee we had the AGM. Reports were read and agreed on the last two rather disjointed years, and the officers and committee returned en bloc for another term. We discussed plans for the Queen’s platinum jubilee as well as ideas for our next charity and thoughts for future speakers. After much deliberations on the general running of the group we closed the meeting at 9.10pm. For the April meeting we have Mary Cryer who will speak on her time as a Bishop’s secretary. If any ladies would like to join us for the evening on April 6 at 7pm in St Thomas’ Church Hall for the modest cost of £2 they would be made most welcome. Pat Dyer WELLS NATURAL HISTORY & ARCHAEOLOGICAL SOCIETY KING Alfred in Somerset, an illustrated talk by Chris Eldridge, Head of History at Wells Cathedral School, will take place on Friday, April 8, in Wells & Mendip Museum at 7.30pm. Free to members of the Society and £2 for visitors. WELLS TWINNING ASSOCIATION WELLS Twinning Association are meeting again after the pandemic and held their Annual General Meeting on Monday, March 7. A new committee was elected. Dawn Payne was elected the new Chairperson with John North – Vice Chair, Bob Reynolds – Treasurer, and
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n AROUND THE SOCIETIES Belinda Washington – Secretary. If you have any questions or queries, please do not hesitate to contact Dawn, either by email dawn_payne@hotmail.co.uk or phone 01749 675858, mobile 07977 627443. At the meeting Dawn read to those present a letter she had received from the Mayor of Kluczbork, Jaroslaw Kielar, our Friendship town in Poland, a copy of which was sent to our President, the Mayor of Wells, Philip Welch. The letter expressed their support for their twin town of Berezhany in Ukraine. Kluczbork have received several hundred refugees from Ukraine, with more to come. It was proposed and agreed at the Annual General Meeting that Wells Twinning Association send a donation of £1,000 to Kluczbork to assist in the help and support for the refugees. Further communication with the Deputy Mayor of Kluczbork said that they are making sure that the Ukrainian families all have a hot meal every day. Wells Twinning Association have helped to support the Ukraine situation through our Friendship town Kluczbork. In the autumn we are planning a visit to our twin town of Bad Dürkheim, more details to follow. The Chair and new committee are looking forward to working together to further promote twinning in Wells.
The hedgehog will be the subject of the next Wells & District Gardening Club talk WELLS & DISTRICT GARDENING CLUB THERE’S a dark, narrow tunnel in the garden of Compton Acres which acts as a link between two contrasting spaces. You emerge from the gloom into a formal Italian Garden of vibrant and dazzling design. It seemed a sort of metaphor for post-lockdown gathering. The March meeting was a great if cautious success, as Mary Payne, garden consultant, explained the planting and
replanting of the various zones and styles of this celebrated garden overlooking Poole harbour. This excellent talk gave us a foretaste of the coach visit that the club will be taking in the summer. A chance in fact to see all those thousands of plants that Mary and her associates have been sourcing for our benefit. How the English love their plants. Sometimes the addiction can be excessive. In the late 19th century Walter Savage Landor, poet and writer, was so dissatisfied with a meal he had organised in his Italian villa, that he seized his cook in anger and threw him out of the window. Overcome with concern he dashed out to inspect the damage done, not to his servant, but to the violets in the bed where the poor fellow had landed. Now that spring is chasing away those hibernating sensations we have held for too long, the same must be true for our fellow creatures in the natural world. There are healthy stirrings and agitations in all our plots and gardens. The violets are not the only early arrivals. Some, of course, need more warmth and this applies to many mammals, ourselves included. We all like a furry animal, so it’s rather odd that the nation’s favourite mammal frequently voted as such is the hedgehog. Shades of Mrs Tiggy Winkle and so on. Rarer now than it used to be, the hedgehog is still an endearing and much loved creature. This month Colin Varndell will talk on The Predicament of the Hedgehog. Colin Varndell of Bridport is a naturalist and wildlife photographer of national and international reputation. His images have appeared in books and magazines both scientific and popular and he has received a number of awards at the prestigious annual Wildlife Photographer of the Year Exhibition. The precision and originality of his photos will make this event a real delight to see. Everyone is very welcome to the Town Hall on Thursday, April 14, at 7.30pm. Members £1, Visitors £3. Refreshments are free but please bring your own cup. Colin will also bring photos, cards and books for sale. An evening to remember. Details on the website: wellsgarden.club Pip Harwood
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Bitterns are one of the success stories of the Somerset Levels SOMERSET WILDLIFE TRUST THE Wells Area Group of the Trust has compiled a full programme of summer walks and events for your education and enjoyment. Amongst other things we will be looking at the culinary and medicinal uses that our forefathers had for common wildflowers and herbs as well as butterflies, birds and orchids on our local wildlife reserves. The next event will be a Booming Bitterns walk at Shapwick Heath Reserve. This will be at 7.30pm on Tuesday, April 12. As I write this, the foghorn calls of the males are resonating clearly around the reserve although it is not always easy to hear them through the chorus produced by the other residents and early summer migrants. Along with Egrets and Cranes, Bitterns are one of the success stories of the Somerset Levels, with more and more breeding pairs in successive years and our evening walk is always a good time to hear them, and if we are lucky, see one. Also, we are often treated to aerial displays by Barn Owls and Marsh Harriers. Numbers are restricted for this event so if you would like to join us, please book in advance with Jean Mantle (jaye.mantle@ btinternet.com, telephone 01749 677600). We ask for £5 per adult – under 16s are free. Jean will also be able to provide you with details of all our other events, or check out the SWT website at somersetwildlife. org/events Eric Lewis WELLS ARTHRITIS GROUP THE five-day holiday in Bournemouth in January was the first holiday the group had been able to have since the first lockdown in March 2020 owing to the Covid virus. It was therefore eagerly looked forward to and well deserved, we felt. The only evident limitation was
the necessity to don masks while in the coach and whilst moving around in the hotel. Forty-three of us set off by coach from the bus station. Disappointingly many of our usual venues for a break in the outward journey were unable to accept coaches owing to staff shortages. However, we stopped in Poole in Dorset for an extended lunch break before travelling on to the Trouville Hotel in Bournemouth located some 10 minutes’ walk away from the beach. Staff numbers at the hotel were very limited but they looked after us well for our short break. The following day we travelled to Salisbury, followed by a scenic drive through the New Forest and on to the village of Lyndhurst for a short sightseeing break. Weymouth was our destination for Wednesday. From Weymouth we then went on to West Bay for a stroll around the picturesque harbour. On Thursday we travelled from Bournemouth to the historic naval town of Portsmouth where some chose to leave the coach in the town centre, the others went on to the harbour for lunch and sightseeing or visiting the Spinnaker Tower. All too soon our last day came and we left the hotel to travel to Bridport in Dorset before travelling home to Wells. Our thanks go to our excellent coach driver, Graham, for a safe journey. Thanks also to David Palmer who arranged this most welcome holiday for the Arthritis Group. Pat Thomas COXLEY & DISTRICT WI COXLEY WI are now meeting again on the first Tuesday of each month. This, once more, is at Coxley Memorial Hall at 7pm. Plenty of parking is available and all old and new visitors are most welcome. Refreshments of course are provided. In addition we have several sub-groups, running, walking, craft, book club, lunch club, for those interested. Our speaker for April 5 is Emma Duke, talking on Lost Coast of Somerset. Members and visitors are invited to bring a coastal picture for the competition.
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April 2022
n TAKE A BREAK
The FIEND
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