Wells Voice August 2024

Final preparations for city’s first Pride event

WELLS Pride will be bringing colour and spectacle to the city during a day of activities and entertainment on Saturday, August 3.

The event – the first Pride event in Wells – is dedicated to embracing diversity, promoting LGBTQ+ rights, and fostering a sense of unity within the community.

It is being organised by Councillor Georgie Robbins, who said: “Wells Pride 2024 is proving to be bigger than I ever imagined. Wells has really got behind it. We have nearly finalised the programme for the day and there is going to be a lot to enjoy.”

The day will start with a yoga session at the Bishop’s Barn from 9am-9.45am hosted by Studio Eight. Mats can be reserved by emailing hello@studioeightwells. co.uk

Activities will continue throughout the day until about 4pm at the Bishop’s Barn with

Pride activities throughout day

From page 1

stalls, face glitter, a play from His & Hers Theatre Company, an open mic stand, a tombola, and the chance to make signs ready for the Pride Walk. There will also be a catwalk for people to show off their outfits.

“We are expecting some very flamboyant costumes with plenty of glitter and feathers and bright colours,” said Cllr Robbins.

“Pride events take place all around the world and they are always colourful and good fun.”

The Pride Walk will leave from the Barn at 2pm, with the Mayor of Wells, Councillor Jasmine Browne, setting walkers on their way. They will be led by Portway Music School samba band on a route that will be announced a few days in advance.

Strangers with Coffee in St Cuthbert Street will be open later than usual to host an open mic/

acoustic session, and will also be a welcoming space if people want to venture somewhere quieter during the day.

There will be live music at The Venue in South Street from 6pm. Performers include PRP Contemporary Choir, and the headline band is Cosmic Ninja! There will also be drag performances during the evening. Entry is free but donations will be appreciated. Blossom’s of Wells in Broad Street will be hosting

a Blossom’s After Dark Pride Night from 6pm, with last orders at 10.30pm. There will be cheese, wine, cocktails and music, with performances from local musicians. Tables can be reserved by calling 01749 676697 or emailing eat@ blossomsofwells.co.uk

There will be an After Party from 9pm onwards at The Sheep and Penguin in Tucker Street. Again entry is free but donations will be appreciated.

“Thank you to everyone who has helped make this possible, including a dedicated team of volunteers, the businesses who are getting involved, and our sponsors, Wells Chamber of Commerce, Wolf Barbers, and Scream Digital,” said Cllr Robbins.

“I hope that as many people as possible take part in the day’s activities or turn out to watch the walk. It should be a memorable day.”

Cedar tree to be replaced

FOLLOWING an arboricultural inspection of all the trees on the Cathedral estate, a more in-depth investigation of the Cedar of Lebanon tree, located on the corner of the Liberty in Wells, was recommended.

This second survey revealed concerning decay which means that the tree is unsafe and the Cathedral has been advised to apply for a removal order.

Toby Wright, Dean of Wells, said: “The decision to fell and replace such a magnificent tree is an emotive decision. However, we have sadly been advised that the tree cannot be safely retained.

“When the tree is removed the wood will be repurposed and the tree replaced so that another can grow in its place. We would also like to invite our community to send us any stories or memories they have of the tree which we will collate and share.”

Stories can be emailed to marketing@wellscathedral.org.uk

n NEWS

Walk will benefit mental health charity

INTREPID walkers will be tackling all or part of the West Mendip Way Walk, a challenging 30-mile trek from Uphill to Wells, on August 25 to raise funds for Heads Up.

The walk is being organised by Chris Young, owner of Wolf Barbers in Broad Street, Wells, and Neil Winterson, one of Chris’ clients for a number of years, who has a security company based in Bristol.

Neil is also one of the organisers for the Wells Chapter of the Men’s Walking and Talking group that meets at St Cuthbert’s Church on Tuesday evenings at 7pm.

The pair have become friends, and are strong supporters of Heads Up and the work that the South-Horrington-based mental health charity carries out in the local community.

“I have been helping to support Heads Up for several years now. They are a fantastic charity who do amazing things for our local community,” said Chris.

“Having been barbering in Wells for nearly 18 years now, I have met loads of people, mainly men, who have been struggling with mental health issues – even more so since the pandemic.

“The suicide rate across Britain has risen since 2019 and it is the biggest killer of people under 45. Anxiety is something that we have noticed a rise in in the barbershop too, with more people opening up to us about it, we are able to help make things easier for them and also recognise the signs in others.

“In 2022, my shop manager Becky and I went on a day course with Weston College to learn more about mental health. This was a bespoke course that was just for us, and helped by another customer of ours who owns a business in Bristol, it gave us a greater understanding of what to look for, how we can deal with the situations and help make things more comfortable and easier for our customers.

“It’s this knowledge that has made mental health and wellbeing a major focus for us at Wolf Barbers.”

The walk on August 25 will start at 7am in Uphill. There are five stages, and so far about 25 people have signed up to do the walk, their ages ranging from eight to 60; some will be completing the whole 30 miles, and some doing just one or two stages. The final group of walkers

Primary Care Network, which includes the two doctors’ practices in Wells. She said of Heads Up: “I have had numerous patients who have attended and greatly benefitted from the social interaction and activities it provides.”

The walk will be followed by an after-party at the Wookey Hole Inn (starting at 6pm). There will be food, drinks, live music, a raffle, and an auction, all aimed at boosting the fundraising efforts.

is expected to arrive at Wells Cathedral at about 7pm. Everyone is welcome on the walk, not just men.

One of the walkers is Sandra Temple, Dementia Care Coordinator for the West Mendip

A ‘Wild Men of Wookey Hole’ fundraiser at the Wookey Hole Inn in 2021, which included a head-shaving challenge conducted by Wolf Barbers, raised more than £6,000 for Heads Up.

To take part, contact Chris and Neil by emailing mendiphike@gmail.com

Donations can be made through the Heads Up website: www.headsupsomerset.org.uk

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Neil Winterson, left, and Chris Young pictured at Wolf Barbers

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LOCAL INFORMATION

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Rafters to compete in ‘Water Olympics’

WELLS will stage its very own ‘Water Olympics’ on August Bank Holiday Monday.

The Wells Moat Boat Race returns to The Bishop’s Palace moat on August 26, when teams of rafters will compete in a number of categories in front of crowds of excited spectators.

There will be races for Juniors and Adults, fun races and special awards such as best dressed crew and best raft design. Racing starts at noon.

All proceeds will be donated to local charitable organisations by City of Wells Lions.

There is still time for teams to enter the races. Application

packs with regulations and raft specification are available at wellsmoatboatrace.com or from City of Wells Lions, email cityofwellslions@gmail.com

The maximum crew size is six (teams up to eight), the minimum age to take part is 13 years by Monday, August 26.

Mendip Activity Centre has a link to raft building sessions, or other guidance for raft building can be found online such as at monmouthraftrace.com/ building-a-raft

If interested in helping with the races, contact the Lions by emailing cityofwellslions@gmail. com or calling 0345 833 6736.

Enquiries into incident continue

ENQUIRIES are ongoing into an incident in which police arrested two men following reports of the shouting of Nazi slogans and racist and homophobic comments at Cathedral Green in Wells.

Police attended after a 999

call on July 18 and arrested two men, one in his 30s and one in his 40s, on suspicion of a racially aggravated public order offence. Both men have been released under investigation, said a police spokesperson, and enquiries are ongoing.

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Clinics in Wells and Midsomer Norton. Home visits can also be arranged.

Action from last year’s Moat Boat Race

St Andrews Ward relocated to Yeovil site

THE St Andrews Ward in Wells has been relocated to the new mental health in-patient ward in Yeovil.

The move comes nearly four years after the decision to relocate the ward was agreed by the Somerset Clinical Commissioning Group Governing Body.

Campaigners who fought a battle to keep the ward in Wells finally admitted defeat towards the end of last year. Emma King from the campaign group said at the time: “After a meeting organised with the Integrated Care Board on October 19, 2023, it became blindingly apparent that our campaign had failed to have the desired impact.

“We remain concerned that the needs of the residents of the Mendip area are still not being properly addressed and that the removal of this ward will lead to vulnerable, confused people being further distressed, thereby

prolonging their mental health crisis.”

The new Rowan Ward 2 in Yeovil will provide 15 in-patient beds, supported by an experienced mental health team that will provide care for people with acute mental health needs. It is located next to the existing Rowan Ward 1, that has also been extensively refurbished.

Hazel Armstrong, clinical services manager for both Rowan wards, said: “We’re so pleased to be able to welcome our patients

FUTURE SALES

from St Andrews. A lot of thought and hard work has gone in to the build and refurbishment of both of our wards. We’re looking forward to working closely with our teams, to provide the best standard of care.

“We know that it isn’t an easy move for some of our patients and their loved ones, and our teams will be on hand to welcome and support our patients in their transition on to the new ward. We are very mindful about the potential impact of this move, and we will continue to work alongside people that matter for our patients, and maintain the close links that we have with local mental health services in Mendip.”

Patients on both Rowan wards are now able to access a range of facilities including their own en-suite bedroom, an activity room, a communal lounge, a separate female lounge, dining room, outdoor space,

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private quiet spaces, a family room, a gym, and a kitchen.

Ward manager, Claire Cook, said: “The relocation to Yeovil enables us to provide safer care for our patients, with additional access to 24-hour medical cover, seven days a week, as well as being a lot closer to Yeovil District Hospital.”

Bernie Marden, Chief Medical Officer, NHS Somerset, said: “It is really positive to see the opening of the specially designed ward in Yeovil. The relocation has always been about ensuring we are able to provide safer, better-quality care to those most in need, as well as being able to provide greater resilience and ensuring that patients receive the best care possible.”

Planning is underway to consolidate services at the Priory Health Park in Wells into the vacated Phoenix Ward and St Andrews Ward between 2026 to 2027.

19th century writing desk Sold £950

Collection of worldwide stamps in two albums Sold £1450

Inside the new Rowan Ward 2

Schools receive Wells in Bloom trophies

THE Mayor of Wells, Councillor Jasmine Browne, handed out certificates, trophies and vouchers to the Schools Wells in Bloom Winners 2024 at an awards ceremony on July 4.

The event took place in the Undercroft at The Bishop’s Palace.

The wheelbarrow entries were displayed for the public to see in the Palace’s Stable Yard.

In her opening remarks, organiser Councillor Denise Denis thanked The Bishop’s Palace (Jo Stevenson and Siobhan Goodwin of the Palace were present), sponsors Wells City Council and Jon Browne of Brownes Garden Centre, judges Linda Thomas and Jan Tinsley, the council’s Outside Spaces Team, and Cllr Browne.

The winners were:

Wheelbarrow Category

Best Edible: Stepping Stones Pre-school; Best Floral: Priddy Primary; Best Wildlife Friendly:

1 Explorers Pre-school, 2 Rockers and Rollers.

School Gardens

Best Edible: East Harptree; Best Floral: Not allocated; Best Wildlife Friendly: Chewton

Primary; Best Newcomer: St Cuthbert’s Infant School.

Trophies

Best Overall Garden: St Cuthbert’s Junior School; Denis

Award for the Environment: Horrington House Pre-school; Cup for Best Wheelbarrow: St Lawrence Primary School; Learning Through Gardening Award: Wookey Primary.

Mendip

Some of the Schools Wells in Bloom Winners 2024 display their prizes

n NEWS

Food festival extends into High Street

THE family friendly Wells Food Festival returns on Sunday, October 13, from 10.30am to 4.30pm.

The free-to-enter festival provides the chance to taste and buy some of the region’s finest food and drink from close to 200 dedicated independent businesses and artisan traders.

For the first time in the festival’s 12-year history, the Artisan Market will extend from the Recreation Ground, along the Moat, into the Market Place and Town Hall and down the High Street, which will be closed to traffic for the day.

“With the potential of almost 16,000 people attending the festival, regular visitors will know how busy it can be,” says Jon Abbott, festival director.

“Utilising the High Street seemed the obvious next step. It means we can spread out a little more and also say yes to some enthusiastic new traders who

have been patiently waiting to get involved with the festival.”

There will be approximately 20 new stalls to explore on the High Street ranging from kombucha to chocolate.

But it’s not just about the Artisan Market: with support from headline sponsor, Charlie Bigham’s, there are lots of areas for visitors to enjoy. The Food

for Thought marquee returns to throw some light on how communities can tackle the challenges of food-related social issues, whilst the Celebration of English Wine marquee provides the opportunity to chat to individual vineyards.

For the younger visitors, the Children’s Zone is supported by local primary school PTAs, along

with activities organised by Wells Cathedral School, Millfield and 5th/7th Wells Scout Group.

Fun Kitchen will be helping children to make Apple Cinnamon Swirls in four free cookery sessions whilst the popular, interactive Children’s Trail will once again provide a fun way to see the festival.

New for 2024 is the Wells Food Festival Photography Competition sponsored by Wells Cathedral School.

It is open to those aged 18 and under, and on the theme of Apples & Fruit.

In addition to some great photography prizes, the finalists’ photographs will be on display in the Town Hall at the festival. With a deadline of September 29, photos should be emailed to photocompetition@wellscathedral-school.com along with name, age and photo caption.

More at www. wellsfoodfestival.co.uk

Pictured at previous Wells Food Festivals are Fruit Bodhi Mushrooms, left, and local vineyard Fenny Castle Pictures: John Law

Sights set on taking ambulance to Ukraine

By Philip Welch

HIGHLY experienced chief executive Martyn Starnes has taken on a new challenge –raising thousands of pounds to take an ambulance to Ukraine.

A former CEO of Yeovil Town, Bristol Rovers and Plymouth Argyle football clubs, Martyn is now chief executive of the Mendip Community Transport charity which operates 30 accessible minibuses for people who would otherwise be isolated or disadvantaged by having no access to other forms of transport.

“I have been inspired by the Ukrainians’ determination and courage to defend their country against overwhelming odds and want to do what I can to help,” said Martyn.

“I will be joining a Medical Life Lines Ukraine team in September driving an ambulance containing medical supplies and

equipment to Lviv in western Ukraine. The war in that country has had a devastating effect on ordinary people as well as military personnel.”

Medical Life Lines have delivered more than 60 aid-filled ambulances to Ukraine alongside

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21 generators and one all-terrain rescue crane since Putin’s invasion of Ukraine.

“This work has undoubtedly saved lives,” said Martyn, “and shown the people of Ukraine that a huge number of people in the outside world are acutely aware of their plight and keen to help them in whatever way that they can.

“Sunflowers are the national flowers of Ukraine and this Sunflower Season we aim to deliver a significant number of additional ambulances in convoys leaving in August and September. These will demonstrate our continuing

desire to stand with Ukraine.”

Martyn already has support with the fundraising from Maria Gregg of Wells and the Ukrainians of the Wells Welcome Hub.

It costs £15,000 to buy, recondition and deliver an ambulance to Ukraine and this money is raised by volunteer fundraiser-drivers.

Any excess funds are used to buy medical and other aid, additional equipment and vehicles needed by the emergency services. Medical Life Lines work closely with the health and emergency authorities in Ukraine so they can then deliver what people actually need, where they need it.

This includes not only ambulances and medical aid (everything from crutches to defibrillators, bandages to endoscopes) but also clothing and practically anything else needed that the ambulances can carry.

“I need to raise £7,000 towards the acquisition of the ambulance and the accompanying supplies,” said Martyn. “Any donations no matter how large or small would be gratefully received via my justgiving.com page below.” www.justgiving.com/page/ martyn-starnes-1717855752266

candidates

Tessa Munt voted in as new MP

LIBERAL Democrat candidate

Tessa Munt was elected as MP for the Wells and Mendip Hills constituency in the General Election on July 4.

She had a majority of 11,121 over second-placed Meg PowellChandler of the Conservatives. She was previously MP for the old Wells constituency from 2010-15.

The full result was: Tessa Munt (Liberal Democrat) 23,622; Meg Powell-Chandler (Conservative Party) 12,501; Helen Hims (Reform UK) 6,611; Joe Joseph (Labour Party) 3,527; Peter Welsh (Green Party) 2,068; Abi McGuire (Independent) 1,849; Craig Clarke (Independent) 190. Turnout: 68.70%.

Launching the ambulance appeal at the Wells Welcome Hub are, from left, Edgar Phillips, Inna Prykhodko, Maria Gregg, Martyn Starnes and Anna Tumanova

Tessa Munt, third left, with five of the other

at the declaration

Encouragement to enter novelty race

TEAMS are being urged to get their entries in for the inaugural Great Sedan Chair Steeplechase taking place at Wells Recreation Ground on Sunday, September 29.

Members of Wells Rotary have been finalising plans for the course, and working out a suitable series of obstacles for contestants to negotiate. One will require them to dismantle their sedan chair and then put it back together.

Organiser Jon Savery challenged clubs, businesses and other organisations to put together a five-strong team to take part in the fun event.

“Rotary are hoping it will

capture people’s imaginations and become an annual event,” he said.

Mayor of Wells Jasmine Browne has given the event her backing, and tried out a sedan chair for herself on Cathedral Green.

The cost of entry is £25 per team, with all proceeds going to Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance.

“The air ambulance is a charity that we feel is a popular one which does so much good,” said Jon.

For more information and entry details, contact Jon by emailing j-savery@hotmail.co.uk or calling 07771 282716.

New MP guest speaker at meeting

TESSA Munt, the newly elected MP for Wells and Mendip Hills, will be guest speaker at the Wells Chamber of Commerce Network Breakfast meeting on Thursday, August 1.

This will be an early opportunity for anybody who would like to attend to hear what she has to say, with coffee and

Appeal to be made to PM for action on local government

THE Leader of Somerset Council is to write to new Prime Minister Keir Starmer calling for urgent action to prioritise local government.

Councillor Bill Revans pledged to stand up for the people of Somerset as the council’s Executive discussed several key items which highlight the challenges facing local authorities.

In response to the council’s declaration of a financial emergency last November, Somerset Council has had to take a series of unprecedented decisions. At the Executive meeting on July 15, this included decisions to devolve assets and services to Yeovil Town Council, to rent out offices in Taunton to reduce costs, and to consult with the public on potential changes to the Council Tax Reduction scheme which supports workingage people on low incomes.

Cllr Revans said: “We have worked incredibly hard to reduce our spending and have never shied away from taking decisions ourselves, no matter how difficult. We want to invest in services for our communities and protect vital schemes like Council Tax Reduction which supports our most vulnerable residents. But it is clear we cannot do this without Government action.

“The funding model for local government is broken and this is a national problem which needs a national solution.

“We need this country to prioritise local government – and all the vital services it provides.”

Members of the Executive agreed the Leader should write to the Prime Minister, and contact Angela Rayner, the Secretary of State for the Ministry for Housing, Communities and Local Government, to request a meeting.

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u Message from the MP, page 37

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Wells Town Crier Len Sweales helps Wells Rotary members carry Mayor Jasmine Browne in a sedan chair

Dancing and pizza at Parkinson’s group’s film premiere evening

THERE was glamour and excitement as Wells hosted a film premiere in July.

There were no Hollywood actors but instead a special group of local stars who all have neurological conditions and have come together through dance to stay active, have fun and support each other.

They belong to Dance 4 Parkinson’s Wells, a unique group established and run by individuals living with Parkinson’s and other neurological conditions such as multiple sclerosis (MS).

Sixty people gathered at Wells & Mendip Museum on July 20 to watch the premiere of Dancing the Way – Finding Flow, a dance film created by Dance 4 Parkinson’s Wells.

They were offered the opportunity to make the film as part of a national project, Live Well and Dance with Parkinson’s, run by community dance organisation People Dancing.

Dancing the Way – Finding Flow is a film the group created in collaboration with Somerset Film, Lerato Stanley-Dunn and Richard Tomlinson.

“It tells the story of our journey as a group and how much we love to be creative. Creativity makes us feel better, it builds connections and inspires us to make change,” said Lerato.

“The film was made to inspire others to Live Well and Dance to their full potential.

“The premiere of the film was

a joyful, energetic evening. After watching, the group led all the guests in some dancing before enjoying some pizza and wine.”

An audience member who watched the film said: “It’s a beautiful film, the light, the joy, the care they show for each other. It really touched my heart.”

The event was a fundraiser as the group is applying to the National Lottery for a grant to develop its work, and the application will be more successful if it can show match funding.

“We want to develop our existing dance session into a creative hub for people living

with Parkinson’s and other neurological conditions,” said group founder Sue Isherwood.

“This hub will foster community, provide peer support and skills development, raise awareness of neurodegenerative conditions, and inspire others to find purpose, be of service, and live boldly.”

Watch the film at https:// youtu.be/MdaMYqi48XQ

Donate at https://www. justgiving.com/crowdfunding/ Dance4ParkinsonsWells?utm_ term=eapMjbXNk

To get in touch with the group, email d4pwells@gmail. com

WELLS!

TO

Top honour at skincare awards

A SKINCARE company based at West Horrington, near Wells, is celebrating some outstanding results at the 13th annual Free From Skincare Awards.

Lyonsleaf – The Republic of Natural Skincare achieved medal places for all six products entered and overall Best Brand 2024.

The awards were founded to encourage and reward manufacturers of skincare products that are ‘free from’ either artificial ingredients, or animal-based ingredients, or fragrances, or food allergens.

“We are absolutely thrilled with this year’s results. We love working with the Free From Skincare Awards and are proud to support them every year. Their support towards small businesses is phenomenal and we are honoured by the number of awards Lyonsleaf products have achieved this year. Best Brand – wow,” said owner Vicky Lyons.

Lyonsleaf is women owned, employing local mums from the area and operating around the school term to accommodate parenting, business and making a change for good in the cosmetic industry. The women not only produce handmade products free from artificial chemicals and preservatives but also grow many of the main ingredients used to create the products.

Since first entering the Free From Skincare Awards in 2014, when they won gold with the first product they made, Calendula Cream, Lyonsleaf has won 43 medals.

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Dementia Day Care Support – Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays, 10am-3pm

Mental Health & Wellbeing Workshops – Tuesdays & Thursdays, 10.30am-12.30pm, 1pm-3pm, or ALL Day

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Members of Dance 4 Parkinson’s Wells, who have made a film to inspire others to Live Well and Dance to their full potential

The Italians of Wells exhibition opened at Wells & Mendip Museum on July 9. The exhibition tells the story of Italian families who have settled here, and celebrates the contribution they have made to the city. Mayor of Wells Jasmine Browne is pictured at the private view with members of the Italian community, Museum staff and Twinning Association members. The exhibition continues until August 31.

Funding agreed so bleed kits can be provided around city

WELLS City Council is to use £500 from the Community Fund to provide bleed kits in the city.

Members of the Finance & Council Matters Committee agreed to the proposal at a meeting on July 11.

The kits, that help control bleeding in the event of a serious injury, will be placed at easily accessible locations around Wells, with a suggestion that these could publicised on the maps showing defibrillators.

Councillor Jasmine Browne said that the city’s St John

Ambulance group have told her they will be willing to offer free training in the use of the kits to councillors and members of the public.

At the same meeting, councillors agreed to a £5,000 budget to provide public information about the devolution of services from Somerset Council to Wells City Council.

The first tranche of services could be devolved as soon as September – probably responsibility for play areas.

Devolution Officer Haylee

Rise reported in animal cruelty

THE RSPCA has warned that animal cruelty is on the rise –with the charity receiving 866 cruelty reports so far this year in Somerset alone, with its busiest period yet to come.

The new figures, released by the RSPCA on July 17, show there have already been 44,879 reports of cruelty towards animals so far this year across England and Wales up to the end of June. This is more than two per cent higher than the 43,983 calls received during the same timeframe last year.

Cruelty is rising even more quickly in Somerset – with reports locally up by 10.32 per cent this year.

But the worst could be yet to come. Last year saw the charity receive a report of animal cruelty every five minutes during its busiest summer months.

The animal welfare charity has now launched its No Animal Deserves Cruelty summer appeal as it responds to this seasonal peak in cruelty.

Wilkins said that a list of priorities has been drawn up now after the committee set up a working party at the previous meeting.

Town Clerk Steve Luck told the meeting that the city council was governed by whatever information was being provided by Somerset Council, and said that council officers needed to be able to give priority to the devolution process.

“We will ask members to hold back on non-urgent matters to prioritise devolution,” he said.

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• Solid fuel, wood burning, electric and gas specialists.

• Custom made flue systems and chimney lining.

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“Summer is a really challenging time for us – and we’re braced for another busy season on the frontline, but we cannot do this alone,” said Karen Colman, who heads up the RSPCA welfare oversight team.

“That’s why our No Animal Deserves Cruelty summer appeal seeks to tackle the rising levels of cruelty by raising vital funds to help those animals in desperate need – because every animal deserves kindness.”

More information on the appeal can be found on the RSPCA website.

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Pupils named winners for their inventions

TWO pupils from St Cuthbert’s Infants School in Wells have been named winners in a nationwide competition that encouraged children to research, plan and design a new invention.

As part of the school’s STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) week in March, pupils entered a competition to design a new invention that would be helpful to the school. The competition was run by Primary Engineer, an organisation that aims for the development of children and young people through engagement with engineering.

St Cuthbert’s Infants had a visit from ex-pupil and local engineer Josh Wintersgill of Able Move that encouraged the pupils and helped spark their ideas.

Out of the many thousands of entries from children aged three to 11 and two rounds of grading

with engineers, the school had two winners: Lily and Ocean, both aged six. Another two of its pupils were highly commended: Jude and Milita, both aged five.

On July 5, they were invited to a special awards ceremony at The University of the West of England in Bristol where they were presented with a badge, certificate and a trophy. They were able to walk round an exhibition of all the winning entries, and met a robot.

Ocean’s invention was a canopy that would come across the playground when it rains so that the children could continue to play without needing a coat.

Lily designed a bus with three levels to get children to school. The bus would be electric, with solar panels on top, and to save some space and make access easier the seats would come out of the sides when needed.

Young inventors: Lily and Ocean at the back, and Milita and Jude at the front with certificates they were awarded

Theatre hits target to buy defibrillator

WELLS Little Theatre has successfully met its fundraising target for a new defibrillator to be installed on the outside of the theatre building.

The committee launched their campaign several months ago, looking to raise £1,500 for the device and casing, and set up a fundraising sub-committee to generate ideas.

Wells Little Theatre said at the time that as a pillar of the local community, it would love the opportunity to install a defibrillator in the theatre, but as a charity itself it needed help to raise the funds for one. It pointed out that it holds four major events a year, with an average of five performances per event; if all of these events sold out, it would see nearly 3,500 people pass through the doors.

Thanks to the generous donations from the local community, it has now reached the target and can order the

device and install it as soon as possible.

Tom Creswick, vice chairman of the society and member of the sub-committee, said: “We are thrilled to reach our goal in such a short space of time. This shows how important getting another defibrillator installed in our city is, and how much the people of

Is this man really the murderer?

GUILTY or innocent? That is what the court must decide about Leonard Vole, accused of killing a glamorous heiress, when Witness for the Prosecution comes to Wells Little Theatre in September.

Witness for the Prosecution was Agatha Christie’s favourite play. Director Adam Lanfranchi will be creating a film noir style for the production, in which the theatre auditorium will act

as the court public gallery and jury. Some of the characters in the play will interact directly with the jury to make the audience feel as if they are part of the court proceedings while Vole (played by Jonathan Sansam) attempts to escape the hangman’s noose.

The play runs from September 16-21.

Tickets are on sale now at www.wellslittletheatre.com

Wells care about this cause.

“I want to say a huge thank you on behalf of the committee to everyone that has donated, but in particular I want to thank Tesco Wells Community Grants for donating £200, the team at Priory Dental for donating £250, the staff at Greenhill House Care Home in Cheddar for

donating £300, after a successful fundraising appeal of their own, and PQA Wells staff and students for holding a fundraising day.

“We love being part of this community and are making a lot of exciting improvements to your local theatre, so would welcome any future donations from members of the public. In the meantime, we hope you will continue to support our productions and social events to keep our amazing theatre running.”

The theatre has two more productions this year, with Agatha Christie’s play Witness for the Prosecution taking place in September (more below –tickets available to buy from thelittleboxoffice.com/wellslittle theatre/book/event/198409).

This will be followed by Nativity! The Musical, which is being performed just before Christmas. Tickets will be on sale shortly.

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Jonathan Sansam plays Leonard Vole in Witness for the Prosecution

Tom Creswick with Karen Bevan (Tesco), and Ryan Hughes (Priory Dental)

Artist ‘privileged’ to be part of exhibition

THIS year’s Wells Art Contemporary (WAC) exhibition is from August 3-31 at Wells Cathedral and is available to visit with ticket admission to the Cathedral.

It includes an Installation Show of site-specific works located throughout the Cathedral alongside a Gallery Show of artworks across painting, sculpture, print, photography, drawing and more, displayed in a specially created whitewall gallery in the Cathedral’s Cloisters. The Gallery Show attracted almost 2,500 submissions from around the globe which have been distilled into a shortlist of 121 artworks.

“We have been delighted by not only the number of entries into this year’s open art competition, but also the calibre of work,” said Paddy O’Hagan, Chair of WAC. “It’s an exhibition which you would normally expect to travel some distance to a large city to enjoy.”

Submissions came from 31 countries but, a little closer to home, Jane Manning from Wells was delighted to have her artwork selected.

“This was the first time I have entered WAC,” Jane said. “And I feel privileged to be part of this prestigious exhibition held in such a special place.”

Her work entitled Stones &

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Shapes Wells Cathedral Seen From Inside Wells Museum is a striking graphite drawing.

“It seemed apt,” she said. “It’s an interpretation in flat pattern design of a seldom seen view of the North and West Fronts, glimpsed from an upper floor of the museum opposite.”

Meanwhile, the Installation Show comprises 19 site-specific artworks selected from almost 300 entries. As the first English cathedral to be designed in the revolutionary new Gothic style of architecture in the 12th century, Wells Cathedral has always been recognised for pushing boundaries.

“These 19 installations stand

as responses to the architectural, spatial and spiritual aspects of Wells Cathedral, allowing visitors to see the majestic medieval building with new eyes,” said Paddy.

Visitors are reminded to vote for their favourite piece. Amongst the numerous prizes to be awarded for outstanding works is the People’s Choice Prize: £500 awarded to one artist selected by visitors to the exhibition.

For those who are unable to visit the Cathedral in person, there will also be a virtual exhibition available to view at www.wellsartcontemporary. co.uk

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From left, Stones & Shapes Wells Cathedral Seen From Inside Wells Museum by Jane Manning; the artist in her studio; and from last year, the Chubb Bulleid People’s Choice Award winner – West Wind Procession by Frances Carlile, and Rev Gill Sakakini with Jars of Joy, the installation from The Lawrence Centre

Spaniel’s cough cured

SUZIE was a small rescue cocker spaniel just under five years old when she came in to see us at the start of June. She had a couple of ongoing issues that were being managed by her owner who runs Buddy’s Rural Animal Rescue. These included some underlying joint and mobility issues and some diarrhoea if overfed.

She was brought in because she had developed a cough after being out on a walk doing typical spaniel things such as diving in and out of bushes. Of all the breeds in which a cough may start abruptly spaniels are the ones known for inhaling things they shouldn’t do, such as grass seeds and the like. In these cases serious consequences can occur as grass seeds can enter the lung and migrate through the tissues causing severe damage and infection.

Given this risk we opted to perform X-rays to look for any evidence of inhaled foreign material (known as a foreign body – FB). Inhaled FBs normally fall into the right middle lung lobe and so this can be seen as an opacity in this area of a chest X-ray due to associated fluid accumulation. The mouth was initially checked under anaesthetic and found to be all clear and the chest X-rays were not particularly abnormal – no opacities were seen in the lung lobes. As a result, she was given antibiotics and antiinflammatories for one week to assess her response to infection treatment.

Her owner brought her back four days later due to a lack of response to the medication and she was subsequently booked in for a bronchoscopy – a procedure whereby a flexible camera is passed down the airway to look for abnormalities. Under anaesthetic, the bronchoscopy was performed. We passed the bronchoscope down the trachea (windpipe) to the point where it first branches (known as the carina) into

two other airways. At this branching point it was clear on the scope that there was a piece of foreign material stuck, giving us a potential cause for the cough.

We were able to pass a grabbing device down alongside the camera and grab the foreign material. A video posted on our Facebook page shows us removing this material and that it turned out to be a grass blade – feel free to have a watch!

The reason no changes were seen on the X-rays was because the grass hadn’t passed down into the proper lung tissue but was anchored in the upper airways. Suzie could then keep coughing up any mucus being produced and swallowing it so it wasn’t accumulating enough in the airways to be seen.

Following removal of the grass blade we went back in with the scope and checked the rest of the airways for any other signs of foreign material or abnormalities; none were seen. Suzie recovered well and continued having a cough for a couple of days because of the residual irritation of the procedure and the grass blade, but I can since report the cough has resolved and she is back running around like her normal self.

Joshua White Veterinary Surgeon at Shepton

and Wells Vets

New leader of Good Afternoon Choir

THE popular Wells community Good Afternoon Choir will have a new leader and MD when they start back after their summer break on Tuesday, September 10, at St Thomas’ Church, Wells.

Ruth Jenkins will take over from Grenville Jones, who has stood down after his seven years since starting and leading the choir. His increasing travel commitments with his 35 choirs across the West and London and as founder of the Golden-Oldies Charity and Goldies Cymru (in Wales) have forced his decision to stand down.

Ruth graduated in Music at Birmingham University, specialising in voice and conducting the University Chamber Choir. After training as a Music Therapist at Roehampton Institute, and conducting the Wimbledon YMCA choir, she worked in the NHS for seven years in school and hospital settings.

Since training as a teacher at Warwick University, Ruth has spent the last 15 years teaching music in primary schools, and two of her children’s choirs have delighted audiences in recent

Record number of promotions

SOUTH West legal and financial planning firm Mogers Drewett has announced a record number of promotions as part of a strategy to develop talent throughout the business.

The firm, which has offices in Wells, Bath, Sherborne and Frome, has appointed four new partners and made other promotions across its commercial and private client teams.

They include Cara Burr who becomes a partner in Mogers Drewett’s private client team in Wells. Cara advises on wills, estate administration and lasting powers of attorney.

Meanwhile, John Osman, also based in the Wells office, becomes an equity partner in the firm’s disputes team which he now heads.

years as guest performers for Wells GAC. She sings regularly for St Thomas’ Church.

The rehearsal time will revert back to 2pm-4pm and the next concert will be on Saturday, November 2, at St Thomas’ Church supporting I See You charity with The Brue Boys as special guests. This will be Ruth’s first concert with the Wells Good Afternoon Choir.

There are no auditions to join and new prospective members are always welcome to go along to meet Ruth and the choir.

Estate agency a winner again

SANDERSONS UK has just won the British Property Award for Wells for the third successive year. Their team was said to have performed outstandingly throughout the extensive judging period, which focused on customer service levels.

The estate agency, based in Guard House Lane, has now been shortlisted for a number of national awards which will be announced later in the year.

The British Property Awards provide agents throughout the UK with an opportunity to compare the service that they provide against the service provided by their local, regional and national competition.

Agents who provide outstanding levels of customer service are rewarded with the accolade.

Suzie the cocker spaniel developed a cough after a blade of grass became lodged in her upper airway; right, two bronchoscope images showing the foreign material (blue arrows) at different areas down the airway

Ruth Jenkins , the new leader and MD of Wells Good Afternoon Choir

Lord Lieutenant impressed with mosaic

AS representative of King Charles III, Mohammed Saddiq’s role as Lord Lieutenant of Somerset, takes him to a wide variety of locations. The Wells in Mosaic team was delighted that he was able to include Ruth Ames-White’s studio in his itinerary on July 5.

Vice Lord Lieutenant, Ted Allen, had already visited the project and was so impressed by its complexity, size and ambition that he was able to persuade Mohammed to see it for himself.

On his social media, the Lord Lieutenant’s very complimentary post, following the visit, said that he thought that “the skill and intricacy of the handcraft in this contemporary mosaic is quite outstanding”.

Ruth was able to explain the origins of the project, the research she had carried out for each part of the work which portrays the history of the

city in 32 gothic windows and quatrefoils surrounding a sixmetre diameter walkable map of the central streets and iconic buildings.

“Work,” she told him, “is progressing well at the moment, but we have had setbacks, including being unable to fundraise during the pandemic, and I also broke my wrist last year.

“We are delighted that so far all funding has been through donations and sponsorship from local people. Although we’ve still some way to go as installation will be one of the biggest costs, we are confident of reaching our goal in time.”

There are still some elements of the Mosaic which can be sponsored – from £20 to £1,000 – and donations are always welcome via the website www. wellsinmosaic.org or contact@ wellsinmosaic.org

From left, Ted Allen, Vice Lord Lieutenant of Somerset, Ruth Ames-White, mosaic artist, and Mohammed Saddiq, His Majesty’s Lord Lieutenant of Somerset, at the Wells in Mosaic project studio

wells in mosaic

Festival to offer erudite entertainment

FROM a lexicographer to a quizzing mastermind, the Wells Festival of Literature this year offers mind-boggling entertainment from some top brainiacs.

Susie Dent, queen of the dictionary corner on Channel 4’s Countdown for more than three decades, opens the festival on Friday, October 18, and it closes on Saturday, October 26, with comedian and quizzing mastermind Paul Sinha.

Susie is set to bring snippets from her new book Interesting Stories About Curious Words with bizarre stories behind phrases such as Jack the Lad and Sweet Fanny Adams. She will also take her audience on an adventure of the very best red herrings, cock-and-bull stories and nine-day wonders in the English language.

Stand-up comedian Paul Sinha will bring the festival to an hilarious and heart-warming

close with an unconventional quest for happiness. His wittily titled new book One Sinha Lifetime sets out the tale of an odyssey mixed with episodes of disaster, mayhem, love – and a

passion for general knowledge. A well-known figure on both radio and TV, Sinha placed 11th in the 2018 World Quizzing Championships.

Another treat for quizzers is the return of the festival literary quiz – a popular new addition last year. This year it takes place at The Swan and is open to teams of six.

Former BBC Breakfast presenter Louise Minchin will talk about her gripping debut thriller Isolation Island, due to be published in September. A 2021 I’m a Celebrity contestant, her novel features a gruelling reality survival show with devastating consequences.

And in timely fashion, author Jonathan Coe’s new thriller is set in a Britain that finds itself under the leadership of a new Prime Minister, offering a humorous political critique wrapped up in a cosy crime caper.

Other well-known speakers range from the worlds of politics to cookery (Sophie Grigson with stories of exploding tomatoes).

These are just a few of the names to whet literary appetites for Wells Festival of Literature which takes place from October 18-26. Booking for all events opens on August 5. Look out for a brochure or visit www. wellsfestivalofliterature.org.uk

Activities at library this August

AUGUST activities at Wells Library will include:

n Author Talk – Geoffrey Spinks: Author Geoffrey Spinks will be talking about writing and researching his new book 2084 on Tuesday, August 27, at 10.30am – to reserve a place at this free event, email wlslib@ somerset.gov.uk

n Repair Saturday at the Library: Reduce, reuse and repair… Take your item along to the library and see if it can be repaired on Saturday, August 31, from 10am-12.30pm. Email wlslib@somerset.gov.uk for further information.

n Healthwatch Somerset: Acquired Brain Injury: Healthwatch Somerset are the county’s independent health and social care champion and would like to understand more about

care, and support experiences, for those with a diagnosed ABI. They will be in Wells Library on Thursday, August 15, from 11am-1pm.

n Switch Club: For children aged 7 and up, the next session of the popular Nintendo Switch Club will be on Saturday, August 3, at 10.30am. Free of charge, booking essential – email wlslib@somerset.gov.uk

n Ancestry Group: The group runs on the first Tuesday of every month. Book a one-hour session at 2pm or 3pm on Tuesday, August 6, by emailing wlslib@ somerset.gov.uk

n IT Help Sessions: Book a one-hour session on Wednesdays at 10.30am or 11.30am, or Thursdays at 10.30am or 11.30am. Email wlslib@ somerset.gov.uk

Clockwise from top left, Jonathan Coe, Susie Dent, Paul Sinha and Louise Minchin

Picture: Penguin Books

Picture: John Lawrence

Picture: Andy Hollingworth

Picture: Yana Auda

Pam Ayres, Susie Dent, Shami Chakrabarti, Louise Minchin, AC Grayling, Bendor Grosvenor, Sophie Grigson, Jonathan Coe, Cecile Pin, John Suchet, Paul Sinha and many more...

n NEWS

Winners all round at grant-giving lunch

A MAGICAL moment enthralled the crowd at the latest Wells SOUP!

One of the four presenters at this grant-giving lunch was Heather Anderson from Wells Scout Group who explained that they need a disabled access toilet for the 130 children who use their hut.

Then architectural designer Nigel Clarke called out from the audience saying he would prepare the design necessary for the builders to follow without charge.

A rousing cheer filled the big room in the Connect Centre for Nigel, who is also Assistant Chief Marshal for Wells Carnival.

“Everybody wins at Wells SOUP!,” said Tessa Munt, who was there on her first full day as the newly elected MP for Wells and Mendip Hills.

“It is the most amazing opportunity for local people to hear about wonderful local initiatives and support them.”

The afternoon began with

Kim Robinson from Mendip Community Credit Union telling how the money they received from April’s SOUP! had helped working people and children to save money.

Then Tony Frazier from Wells Carnival explained how it costs more than £20,000 to run each November but the street collections raise only £11,000.

Peter Lawrence of Wells

Oratorio Society told how singing in a choir raised your spirits after a hard day, but Covid had left them short of funds.

Roxie Ford from Fordhaven explained how it offers separated siblings and other family members an opportunity to spend time together in a safe, welcoming and supportive environment.

Wells Scout Group gives

skills for life to their 130 young people aged 4-18, said Heather Anderson, but they have 70 on their waiting list.

Fordhaven received the biggest share of the audience’s votes and went away with half the £750 raised while the other three shared the rest of the money.

And there was another rousing cheer. This time for Ross Young, the lead organiser of SOUP! which is run by Wells Independents.

Master of ceremonies Paddy O’Hagan thanked main sponsors St Andrews Press, Fresh and Good for making the choice of soups, Burns the Bread for the rolls, the Bishop’s Eye for the wine, Morrisons for the soft drinks, Frank Hodgson for the voting slips and Karen Young for the table flowers.

n SOUP! will be back in the Connect Centre on Saturday, October 5, starting at the usual 1pm, to benefit four more good causes.

Clevedon Salerooms, The Auction Centre, Kenn Road, Kenn, Clevedon, Bristol, BS21

Wells MP Tessa Munt with the presenters, from left, Tony Frazier, Peter Lawrence, Heather Anderson, Roxie Ford and MC Paddy O’Hagan Picture: Philip Welch

Vision for bold new skatepark facility starting to take shape

Bev Smith of Wells Skatepark Group says that the skatepark design is shaping up

THE vision for a new skatepark in Wells is moving forward. A recent survey, circulated among local schools and the wider community, has gathered more than 200 responses from riders so far and the first design meeting brought together a focus group of riders and trustees to start shaping the future of the park.

Using insights from the focus group and survey, Maverick, our design partner, will present the first drawings of the skatepark later this summer. These designs will undergo further feedback before being finalised for the planning process.

The new skatepark in Wells is an ambitious and

transformative project, set to revitalise a large, underutilised piece of land. Skateboarding has seen significant growth, especially since its inclusion in the Olympics and its addition to the GCSE sports curriculum in Wales and Ireland. England is expected to follow suit soon.

After thorough discussions with Maverick and our project team, we have set a fundraising target of £500,000. This project presents us all with a unique opportunity to create a lasting recreational facility for our community. The proposed skatepark has the potential to be a destination park, providing

valuable space for the youth of Wells and older riders alike as well as attracting visitors and families to Wells, boosting the local economy.

It is backed by a dedicated team of professionals, an enthusiastic community of riders of all ages, supportive council members, local businesses, and the broader community.

As we prepare to launch our fundraising campaign, pending planning approval, we invite all local businesses to join us in making this project happen. The conversations we’ve had so far have been incredibly encouraging. If your business is interested in getting involved from the start, please get in touch.

To be kept up to date with news, contact us at wellsskatepark@gmail.com

Film Centre has new magazine

WELLS Film Centre has announced that it has joined up with Onscreen magazine to bring a bimonthly film magazine back in house.

The magazine, which can be picked up from Wells Film Centre in Princes Road, features films that will be shown over the coming months (subject to alteration) as well as information on the cinema, competitions and local advertisers.

Onscreen Magazine is a national company which provides film magazines to independent cinemas with pages tailored to the individual sites.

Big night at Barn will showcase dresses

BRIDAL gowns that have been repurposed with creativity and craftsmanship as part of the Tanys Transformations project will be showcased in a catwalk at the Bishop’s Barn on Saturday, August 10.

The project, started by Tanys Kolizeras when she was Mayor of Wells, is raising funds for Heads Up and Whizz Kidz.

More than 100 former wedding dresses have been converted into an array of showstopping gowns, giving them new life and purpose.

The start of 2024 saw a sell-out catwalk of the dresses in Wells Town Hall closely followed by an exhibition in the Cathedral Cloisters, before moving to The Bishop’s Palace. The dresses have also gone on display in local shops and Wells & Mendip Museum.

A new exhibition, Dresses behind Bars, has now opened at Shepton Mallet Prison. It will run until the end of September, and includes some new dresses celebrating the work of the Suffragette movement. A return to Wells Cathedral is also planned for January 2025.

“This initiative is about more than just altering dresses; it’s about building connections, combating loneliness, and celebrating the stories each dress holds,” said Tanys.

The Dreams and Dresses event at the Bishop’s Barn on August 10 will see the collection brought alive by more than 60 models. The evening will also feature singers and musicians. Tickets are on sale either through Eventbrite, or they can be purchased from Wells Town Hall.

Wells Voice readers can

get a £5 discount on the full ticket price by using the QR code below, or using the link: eventbrite.co.uk/e/dreams-anddresses-a-mid-summer-nightextravaganza-at-bishops-barnwells-tickets-915269043347?aff =oddtdtcreator&discount=Drea ms_and_Dresses

So far, the initiative has raised more than £5,000 for Heads Up and Whizz Kidz through the events and exhibitions it has organised.

“We are always looking at new locations to display the collection or even just a few dresses provided we can use these to promote donations to charity,” said Tanys.

The original plan was to sell the dresses off but as interest in the collection has grown business sponsorship is the new focus with varying packages available for a business to sponsor a dress

for a year. With sponsorship comes a range of benefits including access to the events

and exhibition programme.

“To keep the momentum going we are making Tanys Transformations a Community Interest Company,” said Tanys.

“This will enable us to run the social enterprise on a more formal basis and ensure that its not-for-profit status is secured for the longer term whilst also building organisational capacity to allow us to grow.

“We are delighted to have received support from a number of local businesses but now require additional urgent support. Businesses can help either by sponsoring a dress or making a donation to us. We will use any donations wisely and give full publicity to any business which wants to become part of our amazing project.”

For further information or to request a business pack, email tanys@tanystransformations. co.uk or see the website tanystransformations.co.uk

BIG BOY

Sweet cat with affectionate personality

This handsome gentleman is quite aptly named BIG BOY, a 3-year-old male who is looking for his forever home.

Big Boy can be quite nervous in new surroundings and with new people but once he settles in and trusts you, he has an incredibly sweet, affectionate, playful personality that will not fail to make you smile. He’s a very talkative boy who will chat away to you and he has a very distinctive high-pitched meow. He does have an ongoing health issue that makes him a bit wobbly on his back legs but that doesn’t slow him down.

Due to this we are looking to home him around Wells or Shepton Mallet so that he can continue to see our vets and we will of course support his new owners with this.

He is looking for a home that is in a safe area, away from any busy, fast or main roads. He would be best suited in a pet- and child-free home, something slow paced with people who are willing to give him the time and patience he needs to come out of his shell.

If you think you can offer this handsome boy the perfect home, please fill out an online application or phone 07867 140339.

Tanys Kolizeras surrounded by models wearing transformed wedding dresses at the catwalk event in Wells Town Hall at the start of the year

The Bishop’s Barn will be the venue for the catwalk show on August 10

Exhibition shines light on hidden world

A NEW exhibition that connects early 20th-century quests for archaeological and geological knowledge with current environmental concerns has opened at Wells & Mendip Museum.

Out of Time intertwines the pioneering works of Herbert Balch, John Hassall and Harry Savory, who unravelled the mysteries of Mendip caves, with new contemporary works by Ben Rivers and Emma Stibbon, inspiring visitors to imagine the future of this subterranean world.

At the heart of the exhibition is a series of black and white pen and ink drawings by the museum’s founder, Herbert E Balch, whose motto, ‘Search and Learn’, has been lent to a wider three-year project supported by The National Lottery Heritage Fund.

Balch’s drawings from the 1900s, shown for the first time in this exhibition, result from a relentless investigation into how the caves have been formed and used by humans for 45,000 years. The documents have an urgency and directness that reflect hours of physical endeavour to pioneer the discovery of Swildon’s Hole, Priddy (1901), Eastwater Cavern, Wells (1902), and Wookey Hole (1906).

The 1914 publication Wookey Hole: its Cave and Cave Dwellers is the culmination of years of research by Herbert Balch in collaboration with the photographer Harry Savory and the graphic artist John Hassall; this book will be displayed

alongside examples of the three artists’ work and archaeological specimens.

Emma Stibbon is interested in a geological understanding of place in her approach to landscape. Previous projects have taken her to the Arctic and Antartica, volcanic terrains, deserts and coastal environments.

In preparation for this exhibition she focused on Wookey Hole where she gathered her research and experienced caving for the first time. Emma’s monumental monochrome ink drawing Resurgence reflects on

how the forces of nature and human activity have shaped the Show Cave at Wookey Hole.

Stibbon has also produced a series of photographic ambrotypes and drawings of Balch’s geological samples, which connect back to the founder’s research.

Ben Rivers was inspired by William Boyd Dawkins’s 1852 research into the palaeolithic archaeology of the Hyaena Den at Wookey Hole Ravine and Jules Verne’s 1864 science fiction novel Journey to the Centre of the Earth.

His film Look Then Below

shows the netherworld of chambers carved out over deep time and foretells a future subterranean world, occupied by a species that evolved from our environmentally challenged world.

Josephine Lanyon, the exhibition’s curator, said: “This exhibition is a rare opportunity to focus on Mendip’s unique and changing underground worlds. By fusing the museum’s collections with 20th-century thought, we can examine these very special habitats’ past, present and future.”

The Search and Learn project has seen Balch’s former study within the museum’s building on Cathedral Green restored, interpreted and brought into the visitor experience for the first time.

Items on display include personal effects including Balch’s desk and the magnesium lamp which he took down to explore and document the caves below the Mendip Hills. It has also enabled the redevelopment of the two Wells City Galleries, which reopened to the public in March, and a programme of temporary exhibitions and creative projects.

The Search and Learn project has been made possible thanks to an award of £194,600 from The National Lottery Heritage Fund, and a bequest from the late Jean Imray – a former Trustee of the museum and Wells City Archivist.

Out of Time: Underground Mendip will run until September 7. Free entry (usual museum entry charge applies).

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Detail from one of Herbert E Balch’s pen and ink drawings

‘Ride in my chair’ challenge an eye-opening experience

WHEN city councillors Jasmine Browne, the Mayor of Wells, and Georgie Robbins joined the Accessible Wells campaign steering group they said they wanted to get a better understanding of the challenges faced by wheelchair and mobility scooter users.

So it was arranged that on Tuesday, July 2, the pair would set off on a ‘ride in my chair’ challenge.

Brian Clarke, who has Motor Neurone Disease, lent his sophisticated powered wheelchair to Cllr Robbins. After a short briefing from Brian about the operation of the chair and warnings about not straying too close to the side of pavements, Cllr Robbins set off on a northern city centre route.

Dick Hodgson, who has recently also had to start using a power chair, arranged for Cllr Browne to borrow a mobility scooter. Together this pair set off on a different route to take in some of the southern parts of the city centre and the challenge of accessing key services.

Brian told Wells Voice that the routes were designed to highlight some of the many pavement deficiencies that were identified in late 2023, which the campaign team is still pressing Somerset Council to remediate.

Brian said: “I think many wheelchair users in Wells will be pleased to see these councillors

getting a first-hand appreciation of the real challenges we face to get around town.”

After their rides, the councillors submitted a brief account of their experiences to Wells Voice:

Councillor Jasmine

Browne’s travelogue

We went from Anseres Place in South Street down Southover. It’s not possible to use the pavements here and I felt very vulnerable mixing with traffic, some travelling at well over the allowed speed. There seems to be no logic to pedestrian drop kerbs – with many missing at critical points. Then a precarious crossing over Priory Road into West Street and onwards to the Delivery Office, my first targeted key service location.

Next on to my second key service target, the Police Station in Burcott Road, which meant getting acquainted with our new traffic lights. I didn’t

Councillor Georgie Robbins’ travelogue

I was first tasked with travelling from Anseres Place to the Cedars Hall concert venue via the Cathedral. We all love the cobbles in the Market Place and want them kept, but I was surprised by how uncomfortably they shake you about in a wheelchair. I encountered a few missing drop kerbs that meant having to join traffic; most worryingly when crossing the entry to College Road along The Liberty.

Next I travelled onwards to the High Street via Sadler Street. Passing by the shop entrances, quite a few shops appear to have made no adjustments to admit or serve chair-bound customers. I could also see how frustrating and dangerous it would be for a wheelchair user to attempt to cross the High Street, other than at the zebra crossing, because of a combination of missing and unusable drop kerbs.

know that they don’t make a sound to signal when it is safe for partially sighted people to cross. Instead, they must place a hand on a small ribbed button underneath the control panel that rotates to signal it’s time to cross safely. Sadly someone had already vandalised a few of them – please, please, please don’t do it again – someone’s life may depend on it.

Then onto my third key service target, the Tucker Street Post Office. Unfortunately there was no drop kerb to the pavement outside Halfords. By now I was too exasperated to face the prospect of a very long detour, so I foolishly decided to drive over the edge. I was very lucky to have someone alongside to stop the scooter tipping over.

I was becoming increasingly anxious about getting to my final key service target, the Bus Station, and finally back towards Anseres Place. At many points I was impeded by a mixture of missing drop kerbs and sloping surfaces, most notably at the top end of Tucker Street, by the Bus Station and crossing from Queen Street to St John Street, with traffic coming at you from all directions.

In summary, I’m glad I have had this experience. It was eyeopening and frightening in equal measure. It has made me even more determined to help make Wells more accessible.

I noticed how the pavement can suddenly narrow by a combination of a few A-frame advertising boards and cafe street furniture, but not a problem on a quiet Tuesday. Then a few tricky kerbs to get

‘I was lucky to have someone with me to help me cross safely’

to Queen Street, but nothing to compare with crossing Broad Street into St John Street. The combination of parked cars, busy traffic and inadequate provision of drop kerbs made this crossing a frightening experience. I was lucky to have someone with me to help me cross safely.

At the end of St John Street I was again confronted with having to join traffic up South Street, so it seemed safer to detour back to Anseres Place via the quiet Mill Street and the High Street.

In summary, that short experience has given me a much deeper appreciation of the challenges faced by disabled residents and visitors. When you have to plan every journey, and sometimes re-route because someone has parked across a drop kerb, it’s no wonder wheelchair users say getting out is mentally exhausting. I love Wells, but I’m going to do my utmost to make it better for everyone.

Georgie Robbins, Brian Clarke, Jasmine Browne and Dick Hodgson before the challenge got underway

Jasmine Browne and Dick Hodgson reach a welcome drop kerb

Guidance for a greener future

THE Wells Environment Network has announced the launch of Wells EcoWeek+, a celebration of sustainability and eco-friendly living.

Wells EcoWeek+ will take place from October 11-20, when there will be ten days of activities such as workshops, talks, community clean-ups, and more.

Organisers say that “it’s a fantastic opportunity to connect, learn, and contribute to a greener Wells”.

Among the events being planned are:

n Floods, Farms, and Food, Friday, October 11, Cedars Hall: A thought-provoking panel discussion with local farmers and food producers, and a chance to explore the impact of floods on farming and the food supply and hear about innovative solutions.

n Design a Bug Hotel, Saturday, October 12: Hosted by Wells Community Shed, this hands-on workshop in the Town Hall is

described as being perfect for children and families. People can learn how to create a cosy habitat for insects.

n Photo/Nature Walk, Tuesday, October 15, The Combe: Victoria

Hillman, a renowned zoologist and wildlife photographer, will lead a guided walk, where there will be an opportunity to discover local wildlife and capture photos along the way.

The Wells Environment Network brings together passionate individuals and organisations from around Wells who are dedicated to nurturing the natural world. Since its inception three years ago, it has been a melting pot of ideas and action, striving for a greener tomorrow.

Among its aims is to amplify the voice of environmentalism in Wells, sparking conversations and inspiring action, and highlighting some of the work already taking place here.

There is more information at wenvironment.org.uk

People who would like to volunteer can email wellsenvironmentnetwork@ gmail.com

Time short to claim free trees

TIME is running out for schools, sports clubs and community groups to take advantage of the Woodland Trust’s latest free trees giveaway and help the charity reach a 16 million tree milestone.

The woodland conservation charity has given away 15 million saplings through its free trees scheme since it started in 2010. And with applications for the autumn delivery window closing on August 26, the Trust is urging people across the South West to take advantage of the ‘no-catch’ scheme and help tackle the climate and nature crisis.

The spring delivery in March saw 48,950 saplings finding homes in the south of England, including 10,545 in Somerset.

To apply, visit https://www. woodlandtrust.org.uk/planttrees/schools-and-communities/ u Register plea in push to plant more trees, page 32

A co-educational prep school offering both day and boarding. All Hallows is conveniently situated just a 20-minute drive from Wells.

Open Morning ~ Saturday 5th October

Please contact Jackie Truelove, All Hallows’ Registrar, to find out more, secure your place, or to arrange a bespoke tour.

Somerset, BA4 4SF www.allhallowsschool.co.uk

CONTACT US 01749 881609 admissions@allhallowsschool.co.uk

The bug hotel at Tor Hill Lane

Dancing club hopes to build on success

WHEN I met with my friend Katherine in summer 2022 after two years of crazy lockdowns and restrictions, we both thought it would be great to be able to dance again, to try to revive our old Wells and Wookey Scottish Dancing Club; we hoped to find enough dancers for a four-couple set.

I emailed everyone to check the mood and had enough positive feedback to encourage us to look for a new venue. In September 2022 we met for a first class at the very welcoming Portway Annexe and Wells Scottish Dancers were born. Unfortunately, after such a long break both of our teachers from the old club weren’t feeling they could commit to calling the dances for us as their circumstances changed significantly, so that was a new challenge, as none of us had any dance teaching experience.

At the beginning everyone was encouraged to call one or two dances for the evening, but at the end Ann was chosen to become a main teacher/caller; as a retired school teacher she was probably the most suitable person for this role with Katherine and myself to join her as helpers.

In January 2023 we started to advertise the class in local magazines and all of a sudden our current venue had become too small for our needs. We

moved to the Blue School dance studio shortly afterwards. We were very lucky to have some experienced dancers join us to help with some complete beginners. At the moment we have over 20 dancers on our mailing list, two sets for almost every class and slowly moving towards more challenging dances. Some of our beginners are already experienced enough to attend social dances in the area and we are hoping to increase our attendance next season. Apparently it is a success story as a lot of Scottish dancing clubs in the country did not survive two years’ break.

Many thanks to Ann and Katharine for running the club with me, to Marion and Kathy for their invaluable help and to all dancers for having fun with us.

If you would like to try Scottish dancing with us please contact Ann at ann. wellsdancers@gmail.com to

n ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

The Wave is the perfect place to learn to surf this summer

THE Wave is a slice of the ocean, inland near Bristol. Offering perfect, guaranteed waves for surfers of all abilities, it’s the perfect place to learn to surf this summer.

This year the launch of the ‘Little Rippers’ session allows for children as young as four to learn to surf. Or if you just want to get in for a splash, Play In The Bay is a summer favourite. For others looking to kick start their surfer journey, look no further than a beginner lesson. Already a keen surfer? The Wave offers great sessions from intermediate to expert every day.

But The Wave is more than just surfing. With free parking and free entry, families can spend a day at The Wave with or without getting wet. The play park and skate ramp keeps kids of all ages entertained for hours, and the shoreline cafe and restaurant offer all-day dining, great tasting coffee and a licensed bar. And if you didn’t want to drive home… book a night in a glamping style safari tent located right next to the lake.

The Wave is an unmissable trip this holiday. Visit The Wave just off Junction 17 of the M5, near Cribbs Causeway.

get more information. We are planning to start a new term after summer break on the first Thursday of September.

Maria Komornicka

By email

Thanks to all who gave so generously

IN Christian Aid Week in May, Wells Methodist Church coffee morning raised £189.40, Wells and area house-tohouse donations amounted to £2,053.66, and the Christian Aid street collection on Saturday, May 18, raised £198.55. This followed Lent Lunches in the Seager Hall, Wells United Church raising £973.55 in March.

Wells Christian Aid committee is very grateful to all who participated and to all who gave so generously.

Anthony Tibbs Secretary

New look Board of Directors

SOMERSET-BASED financial firm Old Mill, which has an office in Wells, has a new look Board of Directors.

The six-strong Board includes newly appointed CEO Mark Neath, and the firm’s new Managing Director Jolyon Stonehouse.

Mark has been with Old Mill for 18 years and has 25 years’ experience as a qualified Chartered Accountant. Jolyon, a Chartered Accountant, is one of the founders of Old Mill and a previous Managing Partner. The role of MD is new to Old Mill and has been created to enable the CEO to focus on long-term strategy.

Fresh plan for homes at pub

A NEW planning application has been submitted for homes to the rear of the Cheddar Valley Inn, Tucker Street, Wells.

The plans propose the retention of the pub while converting an outbuilding to a one-bedroom bungalow and building a two-bedroom bungalow, utilising existing access from Westfield Road.

Plans to build two threebedroom homes on the site were refused by Somerset Council earlier this year.

The Wave is an unmissable trip this holiday

Members of the Wells Scottish Dancers group

Delight with success of theatre festival

THE Wells Theatre Festival came to a close on Sunday, June 23, with a packed house in The White Hart Hotel’s function room for Front Room Theatre’s performance of The Shaggy Dog Tale, a riotous evening of song and storytelling which was very much enjoyed by the audience.

Overall, the Festival was a great success this year with the Community Theatre production of Macbeth in the Bishop’s Barn selling out for all three performances and achieving strong media coverage including BBC radio and television. The production also raised £580 for charity with £250 going to Shelter and £150 to UK Sepsis Trust, and the remainder being ploughed back into next year’s Festival.

As ever a focus for the Festival this year was its children’s performances. Fortyfive pupils from St Lawrence and Priddy Primary School enjoyed the highly innovative and entertaining dance show Shedache from aKa Dance Theatre at the Bandstand on the Recreation Ground. Ayodele Scott and David Evans brought Native Wit, their agbo play – from West Africa, storytelling through chanting, singing, clapping and laughter – to the Connect Centre, Coxley and Horrington primary schools.

Wales-based Flying Bedroom Theatre are in the process of making a new show. They were able to share their work so far with children aged 7-11 at West Pennard and Stoberry and get direct feedback from them. This will help to develop

The

‘It feels as if we have become much more established in the consciousness of local residents’

the show further in the future. The company is funded by Arts Council Wales, Theatr Clwyd, RWCMD, Cardiff Music Service.

This year the Festival also offered work experience opportunities to students at Strode College including those from their performing arts and technical courses.

Meanwhile, Bristol-based

and teacher, Kim Hicks enchanted Jane Austen fans with her one-woman show Courtship, Scenes from the Novels of Jane Austen at Seager Hall. The show is the first and longest running one-woman show about the author and was launched in 1981. Audiences were also offered homemade tea and cakes at the venue

The Festival also brought a brand new play, premiering in Somerset this month – Dot, the Faun and the Elfin Child, a dark fantasy set in the Summer of Lockdown.

Ros Johnson, Artistic Director of the Festival, said:

“We were delighted by the success of this year’s Festival. It feels as if we have become much more established in the consciousness of local residents with increased public support and stronger engagement on social media.

“And we are so grateful for the support from Chalmers HB, St Andrew’s Press, The Maria Bjornson Memorial Fund, AVACAB Taxis, Wells City Council, Mojo Studio Media, Wells Chamber of Commerce, Basil Powell Shoes, Wells Funeral Services, The White Hart and the Elim Connect Centre. We are here to stay.”

actor

cast and crew of Wells Theatre Festival Community Theatre’s production of Macbeth in the Bishop’s Barn

Family’s cake sale raises more than £2,000 for good causes

A CAKE sale organised by a mother and her daughter raised £2,100 which will go to good causes close to their hearts.

Laura Gould and daughter Talia held the sale and a raffle at their home in Wells as a fundraiser for the High Dependency Unit at Bristol Children’s Hospital.

Last year they raised £1,500 at a cake sale for the Motor Neurone Disease Association, because Talia’s grandfather was suffering from the disease. Shortly afterwards Talia was unable to walk properly and was diagnosed in October 2023 with spondololisthesis and later a scoliosis. She underwent a 13-hour operation on January 10 this year and has been unable to attend school for most of the school year.

While in hospital she was looked after on the High Dependency ward, which will receive £1,600 from the latest cake sale as a thank you for

the outstanding treatment she received.

The remaining £500 will go to the hospice that looked after Talia’s grandfather who passed away in February just a few

weeks after her operation.

Laura said of the recent cake sale: “We had an amazing day with lots of people in attendance and the sun shining. My friends Nicola Chalfont Griffin helped as did Talia’s godmother Lauren Millington.

“All our friends and family baked, we had a massive variety of cakes. We had some amazing prizes donated including Studio 24 tickets, vouchers for The Greek Taverna and Root Restaurant in Wells as well as days out and sweet treats. My workplace Daniels Cafe donated a voucher and tea and coffee for the event and my old workplace, the Co-op in Evercreech, donated cups.

“Thank you to all the business that donated their services and to all that baked for and attended the sale.”

A cheque for £1,600 will be handed to Bristol Children’s Hospital at Talia’s next appointment on July 26.

First announces some changes to bus routes

FROM September 1, First West of England will extend its existing service 376 to Yeovil, connecting it to Bristol via Street, Glastonbury and Wells. It will replace the existing service 77 (Wells to Yeovil). In addition, a 376x express journey will be introduced in the mornings between Wells and Yeovil.

The changes are part of a

bi-annual review of routes by First West of England. Others include a new service 373 (Wells to Street) serving the residential area of Windmill Hill in Glastonbury, following the withdrawal of 374 and 375 from the estate because of low passenger numbers.

There will be some changes to the timetable of the 174

(Wells to Bath via Shepton Mallet) to improve punctuality, including the fact that some Sunday morning journeys will be operated as service 171 (Wells to Bath), which will not serve Shepton Mallet because of low passenger numbers.

Further details about all the changes are available on the First West of England website.

Police enquiries into fire ongoing

POLICE are continuing to investigate a barn fire in Wells that is believed to have been started deliberately.

Fire crews from Bridgwater, Street, Cheddar, Shepton Mallet and Wells responded to a call on June 27 that a barn was well alight at Palace Farm in Silver Street. Police also attended.

Devon & Somerset Fire & Rescue Service reported that the barn contained approximately 15 tonnes of hay and tyres, and said in a statement on the incident: “The barn was made of corrugated steel and suffered approximately 40 per cent fire damage to the interior.

The barn on fire at Palace Farm

“The fire was extinguished using five breathing apparatus, one hose reel jet, one covering jet, one thermal imaging camera, drag forks and one spike attack jet.

“The fire was believed to have been started deliberately.”

A police spokesperson told Wells Voice: “Enquiries into a fire at a barn in Silver Street, Wells, remain ongoing. If you have any information which could help our investigation, please call 101 and quote reference 5224167055.”

Nicola Chalfont Griffin, Talia Small, Laura Gould and Lauren Millington at the cake sale

Beginners show progress they have made

Tanya Flagg of Wells City Band reports on the latest musical activities, and highlights some performances to look forward to in the next few weeks

IN July, Wells City Band Brass Academy performed to an audience of family, friends, and band supporters at their annual Summer Showcase, or ‘Chip Concert’ as it is nicknamed because after the concert everyone enjoys a chip buffet. It was the first concert for the current beginners, most have only been learning for six months, so this was a huge achievement to already be able to play together as a group. The Academy Band showed their incredible progress with

Wells City Band Brass Academy’s ‘Chip Concert’ took place at Wells United Church and was a first concert for some players

Home for the Joy White Cup Celebration Party in July.

On August 17, we will be playing in Stoke-St-Michael for the village Stokefest event. On September 7 we are holding a fundraising quiz at 7pm at the Venue club (phone Jane on 01749 675668 if you would like to enter a team), and on the afternoon of Sunday, September 8, we will be playing in Wells Bandstand. We look forward to entertaining you at one of these events.

Awards accolade for housekeeper

LOUISE Hoskins, Head of Housekeeping at Crandon Springs care home in Wells, has been crowned Hospitality Champion of the Year for the Central Division in the Barchester Care Awards 2024 and is through to the national round of judging.

The awards celebrate the staff who go the extra mile for the benefit of the 13,000 residents living in Barchester’s 261 care homes and private hospitals across the country. Categories range from Registered Nurse of the Year and Carer of the Year to Dementia Care Champion and Activities Co-ordinator of the Year. Louise beat hundreds of other nominees to be named the winner for the Central Division.

She said: “It’s incredible

really, I had absolutely no idea. I do have high standards but I just see it as I’m doing my job, and I love my job. I can’t believe that I had so many nominations, thank you to everyone that did.”

Louise Hoskins

Clothes shop to undergo transformation

By Emma James

WHILST readers will be sad to hear that a Wells favourite, the clothes shop Anokhi, is to close after 20 years of trading in the Market Place, they will not need to look elsewhere for their ethical clothing. The shop is to reopen under a new name and will stock almost all of the brands beloved by its faithful clientele: Sahara; Adini; Cut Loose; Grizas; Robell and, of course, Anokhi.

Running the business has been a huge labour of love for owners Luke Hardy and his wife Beverley who pride themselves on knowing their suppliers and ensuring fair trade.

“I just love the people that we deal with,” says Luke. “We like to know where our clothes come from, that they are organic. It’s important that the artisan is self-dependent. We give them work throughout the year but they are free to work for others. What inspires everything we do is sustainability.”

Luke is retiring after 55 years in the business. He opened his first shop in Cambridge in 1972 and then moved to Bath in 1978 where he opened Anokhi two years later. The Wells shop opened its doors in 2004.

Luke and his sister, Faith

were born in India to missionary parents. Although the family settled back in England in 1948, Faith returned to India in 1967 where she met her Indian husband. Together they established a clothes business in an old chicken farm building,

breathing life into what was then the dying craft of hand block printing.

“That’s why there is a bird symbol in the name Anokhi,” explains Luke, “because of the chickens.” The first Anokhi collection was based on a Court

Sculpture admired by festival-goers

A NEW sculpture by Wells artist Edgar Phillips wowed visitors to this year’s Glastonbury Festival.

The huge stained glass wings were a new addition to the Peace Garden beside the Stone Circle, adding to the three other sets of wings that have appeared at the festival site since co-organiser Emily Eavis commissioned him to produce a pair for The Park in 2017. She got in touch after seeing some of Edgar’s work in the grounds of The Bishop’s Palace.

The new wings measure 5m (16.4ft) by 2.5m (8.23ft), and as Edgar told the BBC: “They’re huge, I always wanted it to look like you could actually fly in them.”

Edgar is artist-in-residence at the Portway Annexe in Wells, where he runs art experience days that allow participants

to explore their creativity and learn in a safe and reassuring environment.

He says that art has helped him turn his life around after he faced his own mental health struggles.

“I went through quite a low patch in my life, and one of the inspirations that came from that was this vision of these soaring wings,” he said.

“It was like a piece of a stained glass window brought down to earth.”

He said that his sister Elizabeth came up with the name for his latest sculpture. She was grieving the loss of their mother at the time and said that it should be called Goodbye Mum.

He added: “A shout out to the team at Aller Engineering who help make my sculptures festival proof.”

costume in the Jaipur City Palace Museum and was subsequently bought by Liberty of London.

Luke is keen to emphasise the importance of Beverley’s impact on the business, her eye for colour not surprising considering her work as an art teacher. Luke himself had a previous life as an actor and has rubbed shoulders with many of the greats, touring with Ian McKellan and appearing with Lawrence Olivier, Maggie Smith and in Oedipus at the National Theatre with John Gielgud: “The last job I did was jumping on top of a horse in Polanski’s Macbeth.”

Following a closing down sale and re-stocking, Anokhi, which means ‘unique’, will be reborn as Riotous.

“We feel very fortunate that Emma Russell, who has worked for us for 15 years, will be taking over,” says Luke.

“She could see that so many people were in love with our brands and she wanted to serve them. She wants everything to be a riot of colour. I think she will also create an online profile for the business and hopes to encourage younger shoppers.

“We love colour and we love Wells as a city. It’s been a very joyful experience and now there will be other things to enjoy.”

Business body has new MD

SOMERSET Chamber of Commerce has announced that David Crew has been appointed as the Chamber’s new Managing Director.

David will be a familiar face to many Chamber members as he is currently Vice-Chair of the Chamber’s Board of Directors, a Somerset Business Awards judge and a Chamber Business Partner in his current role as a growth and partnerships director at Weston College.

He said: “I am delighted to be joining Somerset Chamber of Commerce and truly believe in its core values to support businesses to connect, influence and grow.

“I look forward to working collaboratively with all regional partners.”

David will take up the post at the beginning of September.

Emma Russell with Luke Hardy outside Anokhi in Wells

Edgar Phillips with his latest Glastonbury Festival sculpture

Register plea in push to plant more trees

SOMERSET Council is calling out to anyone who has recently planted or plans to plant trees, to ‘root for Somerset’ and add them to the Somerset Tree Planting Register.

As part of the ten-year Somerset Tree Strategy launched last June, developed with partners such as the Woodland Trust and the Environment Agency, the goal is to plant 240 hectares (93 square miles) of new trees across Somerset each year until 2033 to get the county’s tree coverage to at least the national average.

The Somerset Tree Planting Register will help with tracking these important tree-planting goals.

Although it may be thought that Somerset has an abundance of trees, the Somerset Tree Strategy revealed that the county’s tree cover is currently five per cent below the national average of 13 per cent, at just

eight per cent. To address this shortfall, the council is implementing several woodland creation projects across the county.

However, due to diseases, pests, pathogens (bacteria, fungi, and viruses), and other factors, a significant number of trees are also being lost.

Tree-planting schemes are being carried out across Somerset by parishes, community groups, schools, businesses, farmers, and individuals. Adding the trees to the Somerset Tree Planting Register will not only help the council monitor progress and make informed decisions about future focus areas but will also provide valuable information to support external funding opportunities.

The council is interested in trees planted since October 2023.

Councillor Dixie Darch, Lead Member for Environment and Climate Change, said: “The Somerset Tree Strategy was launched last year in recognition of how important trees are to the Somerset landscape, the environment, and how that impacts the lives of residents, ecology, and society. It belongs to us all.

“I encourage anyone who’s planted new trees to root for Somerset and register them on the Somerset Tree Planting Register, as part of a community effort to get Somerset’s tree cover from eight per cent to at least 13 per cent where it should be nationally.”

Those who are considering planting trees in the next tree planting season, from October 2024 to March 2025, should start planning now. Somerset Council has two Woodland Creation Officers, who are externally funded by the Woodland Acceleration Fund, and they can offer a wealth of practical knowledge and expertise to help get the right trees planted in the right place for the right reasons.

For all tree planting enquiries and news, contact the woodland creation team at woodlandcreation@somerset. gov.uk

Care in your own home

Featherbed Homecare Agency is celebrating 38 years in business

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being able to support someone at the end of their life knowing that they are in the secure and familiar surroundings of their own home.

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Sally says all we want to do is provide an excellent and affordable service where people can stay secure and happy in their own homes for as long as they wish. Finding the right carer is the most important factor and we are so fortunate to have many excellent carers who have been with the agency for a long time.

Sally recalls the early days when the Nanny agency provided companions to the elderly. We had a wonderful team of local older ladies who lived with clients as companion carers but that all changed when the Care Act came in. At that time there weren’t that many agencies providing live-in care but suddenly once the Act came in there seemed to be an explosion of men in suits opening care agencies

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Our live-in care service is available throughout the UK. For further information or to request a brochure please call 0117 986 0710 or Freephone 0800 111 4885.

Email: featherbed@featherbedhomecare.co.uk www.featherbedhomecare.co.uk

Somerset’s tree cover is five per cent below the national average

Pupils complete their Mini Police course

THE Mini Police from St Cuthbert’s Junior School have completed their year’s course working alongside me and PCSO Donna President.

The course is always popular, and the children have had a great experience and hopefully have learnt many new things that will help them when moving through school and beyond.

One of our first sessions with the Mini Police involved them agreeing and making a Mini Police Promise about behaviour and the values that they would like to demonstrate.

The children all had a workbook which we worked through, completing many tasks where they learnt amongst other things about the police and

how we work in our community as neighbourhood PCSOs and police and the difference with response police officers. They learnt the police phonetic alphabet which we use when communicating over our radios. We had a session on safety around the use of social media and the internet, all the children

engaged well and asked lots of questions.

They have enjoyed a day at Avon and Somerset Police’s training centre, where they learnt about different roles within the police including the dog unit, mounted section, drone unit and the road safety unit, they were kept busy throughout the day

with learning opportunities and plenty of questions were asked.

They have all completed their Duke of Cornwall Community Safety Award. The award aims to educate and train young people to assist before, during and after a crisis. It was developed to give young people in the UK an opportunity to learn what to do in an emergency, such as severe weather, a pandemic or long-term power cut. The award is open to young people between the ages of five and 18.

We also had a wonderful visit with them all to Crandon Springs residential and nursing home where all the children interacted with the residents playing games and helping to decorate bunting for the D-Day landing commemorations. They enjoyed walking around the ground and asking lots of questions to the staff. All the residents thoroughly enjoyed having the Mini Police to visit.

The Mini Police from St Cuthbert’s Junior School

Charity welcomes in community

PEOPLE took the opportunity to find out more about what Heads Up has to offer when the mental health and wellbeing charity held an Open Day at its base in South Horrington on July 6.

There were a number of stalls, arts and crafts, plants for sale, refreshments, a raffle, and a chance to stroll around the gardens. The event raised £549.87.

“The afternoon wasn’t just

about raising funds, it was also about breaking down barriers and welcoming the community into Heads Up, so that they can see our wonderful facilities and learn more about the services we provide,” said Heads Up’s Operations Manager, Michelle Payne.

“With the amount of visitors and the funds raised, we were pleased it was a successful afternoon.”

Initiative to inspire more volunteering

VOLUNTARY organisations in Somerset have joined forces to launch an initiative to encourage and inspire more volunteering across the county.

Led by Spark Somerset and funded by the Government’s Levelling Up scheme via Somerset Council, Volunteer –Your Time, Your Way aims to showcase the diversity of roles available and break down some of the barriers that prevent people from getting involved.

The demand for volunteers in the UK has been on the rise since the pandemic, which has been observed in Somerset, and the latest insights from The National Lottery Community Fund’s Community Research Index shows this is not set to change in 2024.

Nina Hurst-Jones, Head of Operations at Spark Somerset, said: “Somerset offers an

incredible range of volunteering opportunities, whether you’re looking to develop your CV, create new connections or simply find a sense of community.

“We’re shining a light on the diversity of volunteering across the county. Time is precious and so we want to help people to get involved in ways that work for them.

“There are hundreds of opportunities listed on our dedicated website, Spark a Change. Why not take a look and see if there’s an opportunity near you to volunteer your time, your way?”

By getting involved, volunteers give back to the community and gain valuable skills, expand their networks and experience personal fulfilment.

To find out more information, visit: www.sparkachange.org.uk/ volunteer-campaign

Legal guidance with Chubb Bulleid

TOLATA: How we can help unmarried couples who are separating

By Lucy MiltonDownes

NAVIGATING the stress of a separation when unmarried can raise questions and concerns for your financial future. In this article, I seek to answer questions you may have about how the law can protect you in this situation, and how we as a firm can help.

TOLATA (or TLATA) is the abbreviation for the Trusts of Land and Appointment of Trustees Act 1996. It is an important law in England and Wales that changed how land held in a trust is managed. This statute gives the court the power to make orders regulating property ownership, and it addresses disputes arising from shared property ownership that can arise when unmarried couples separate.

The absence of specific legal frameworks regarding property rights can pose some challenges, but TOLATA steps in to provide clarity and protection in these circumstances. Under this law, the court can order the following:

n An order which determines what share of a property each party owns

n An order forcing the sale of land or property

n An order enabling one party to regain access to a property when the other party refuses to leave

n An order enabling third parties, ie. parents or grandparents, to recover their financial interest in a property owned by the separating couple

TOLATA can offer protection to you in five key areas:

1. Recognition of Trusts

TOLATA recognises the existence of trusts concerning land. A trust is a legal arrangement by which the trustee (party A) holds and manages property for the beneficiary (party B). Within the context of TOLATA, trusts often arise in scenarios where the property is co-owned, but the parties have differing beneficial interests.

2. Declaration of Trust

TOLATA allows for parties to formally declare their beneficial interest in a property through a Declaration of Trust. This document will outline the ownership share of each party, contributions, and rights in regard to the property.

A Declaration of Trust also serves as crucial evidence in resolving disputes and enforcing ownership rights.

3. Resolution of Disputes

When disputes arise out of property ownership, occupancy rights, or financial contributions, TOLATA can provide the framework for resolution. Parties can seek remedy through the courts, which can make orders as above.

4. Equitable Principles

TOLATA operates on equitable principles, meaning that the courts aim to achieve fairness and justice based on the circumstances of each case. The courts consider factors such as the parties’ intentions, contributions, conduct, and the welfare of any children involved in making decisions.

5. Sale or Transfer in Property

In cases where co-owners cannot agree on the future of the property, TOLATA empowers the courts to order the sale of the property. This ensures a fair distribution of proceeds or assets according to each party’s right to remain in the property, considering factors such as the welfare of any dependents.

If you are part of an unmarried couple in the process of separating or are already separated and hold joint interest in a property that is being disputed, then TOLATA could be a way for you to seek a fair outcome and obtain some financial security.

Contact us today to arrange time to speak with one of our experienced and friendly solicitors, who will guide and advise you through the process.

n Lucy Milton-Downes is a Senior Associate with Chubb Bulleid, who have offices in Wells, Street and Somerton. Phone 01749 836100.

Offices in Wells, Street and Somerton Tel: 01749 836100

Some of the charity’s trustees are among those pictured at the Heads Up Open Day

Benefits of cleaner homes pointed out

IT was said that in the 1850s people visiting the city of Wells sometimes doubted the census return as they had been through the streets of the city and could not work out where there were houses for so many to live.

If they had undertaken a house-to-house visitation of the districts of the city inhabited principally by the poor they would no longer have any perplexity on this point.

“Many a narrow doorway, which might have been mistaken for access to a garden or a yard, gives access to a number of thickly peopled tenements.”

You can still see glimpses of these hidden courts today as you walk through streets like Southover, St John Street, St Thomas Street, Tor Street, Mill Street, High Street, Sadler Street and others in the city.

In 1863 Mr Samuel Backhouse, printer and editor of the Wells Journal, decided to pay

a visit to some of these courts and wrote a piece describing what he found:

At house after house I found the same tale of privation through the want of employment.

If some plan could be adopted for furnishing employment to all those in the city who, through no fault of their own, are during the winter out of work, it would save many from contracting habits of indolence and dissipation, and would, moreover, prevent a vast amount of privation and suffering.

But want of employment is not the only, nor perhaps generally speaking the chief cause of destitution. Immoderate drinking is the curse of many families in this city.

There must be a cause for so many husbands going to the beer house and in some cases the cause is in their own homes.

Let me state a case which came under my own observation.

There was one cottage which was entered but from which I at once withdrew to the open air, for the simple reason that I had no wish to be stifled.

Standing by the door I enquired of the female of the house who told me that her husband was in regular employ and was earning about a pound a week.

“Worse luck sir,” the lady told me, “my ’usband ain’t very steady and when he comes from work he goes to the public house and sometimes we ain’t got anything to eat.”

While listening to this tale of woe I glanced around the apartment. There was enough furniture and not all of it of an inferior quality for an artisan earning one pound a week but it was filthy. The ceiling was

festooned with cobwebs, the mantle place ornaments had a similar webbed veil over them and the grate fender and fireirons bore indelible marks of rust. The floor of the room certainly had no cause for complaint of having been beaten by a broom and I would imagine a scrubbing brush was unknown in this house. In the centre of this single downstairs filth reeking room was the wife, who may have washed her face on her wedding day, surrounded by small children whose faces may, during their short lives, accidently come into contact with soap and water.

This is the “home” which the husband has to come home to after his daily toil. Will he spend his evenings here? No, there is a clean room, a cheerful fire and the air of comfort at the public house. So to the public house he goes.

Take another case of two other houses side by side, which exhibited a marked contrast.

In one house there was a wife, who was the mother of several small children, scrubbing the floor of the sitting room. She told of the privation for the family of her husband being out of work for some time but stated that it was no fault of his own for a more sober or industrious man had never lived.

Neatness and cleanliness prevailed in the home and with its occupants. Entering the next house was like going from a parlour to a pigsty.

Filth, disorder and confusion reigned there supreme and the man of the house spent his time and money in the “public”.

If those benevolent ladies of this city who are intent on good works could bring their influence on the wives and mothers to induce them to keep their houses clean and to cultivate the habits of personal cleanliness, they would effect an important and salutary reform in many of these courts and cottages and even if the husbands could not be reclaimed from their drunken habits the labours of these ladies would not be in vain.

Something to think about when you discover these hidden communities.

Picture: Wells & Mendip Museum

Thoughts of Wells and Mendip Hills MP

Tessa Munt

ON July 4, Wells put its faith in a campaign for change and I was elected as your Lib Dem MP.

As both a candidate and your MP, you may share many personal details about your life with me. I’ve listened to details of the struggles you’re facing, trying to make ends meet, to see a doctor, find an NHS dentist, get the care needed for a loved one and the extra help needed for your children. I’ve also heard your deep disillusionment with politicians and the state of politics.

Whether or not you voted for me, I’ll not forget the conversations we’ve had over the

years and in the weeks leading up to the election. Thank you for sharing your concerns with me. It makes it possible for me to serve our community better – by addressing the issues you care most about. I’ll do all I can to restore your trust in politics.

During the campaign, I committed to being available to you. Two days after the election, I held my MP ‘drop-in’ surgery here in Wells. My next surgery is on Saturday, August 3, at Coffee#1 from 8.30am to 10am. I’ll keep you updated with surgery dates in Wells, and you can also check my Facebook page or call 01934 440639 for other dates and nearby locations. And if you can’t come to me, I’ll come to you!

Since the election, I’ve been

back and forth to London, joining hundreds of new MPs in Parliament to be sworn in and started setting up my office. My work email address is tessa.munt.mp@parliament.uk and I’m delighted that many of you have already been in touch. I’ll need to receive all your concerns to this address, and I

appreciate your patience while I recruit a team to help me.

I don’t underestimate the challenges we will face, but the work has begun. I feel a great sense of hope for the future.

Thank you for electing me to represent you. It’s an honour to serve you again and I promise I won’t let you down.

New choir for local singers

A NEW choir for singers in Wells, Street, Glastonbury, Cheddar and beyond is being launched: Chorale21 will bridge the gap between a choral society and small chamber choir.

As a medium-sized choir (about 40 singers), rehearsing in Glastonbury, Chorale21 will sing diverse repertoire from the Renaissance to the 21st century. The first concert (April 2025 in St John’s, Glastonbury) will include James Whitbourn’s moving Requiem Canticorum. Written in 2010, and accompanied by organ and saxophone, this warm, lyrical piece is typical of some of the undiscovered music that Chorale21 will champion.

Aimed at singers with some experience, Chorale21 – with several of the founders based in Wells – will be directed by Matthew Redman. Matthew is

Matthew Redman at Blossom’s of Wells, where the choir’s organising committee hold their planning meetings

Director of Music at St John’s Glastonbury, often plays the organ at Wells Cathedral and is well known as a choral

conductor. His rehearsals are animated, grounded in solid musical understanding, yet fun and uplifting.

Chorale21’s first event will be Come and Sing Handel’s Messiah (the choruses). This will be held on Saturday, November 23, in the Catholic Church Community Hall, Cheddar.

Commenting on the plans, Matthew said: “I am very excited to be leading this new choir; there is so much music out there waiting to be heard. Of course we will sing some tried and tested favourites as well, but Chorale21 will always include something written this century in every performance.”

Details of how to join, how to sign up for the November Come & Sing and concert plans can be found on the Chorale21 website: www.chorale21.org.uk or email info@chorale21.org.uk

Gormley sculpture to be replaced by ‘space’

THE sculpture by Antony Gormley that has filled an empty niche below the north-west tower of Wells Cathedral will be returning to the artist’s collection in August.

DOUBT was installed three years ago after being loaned to Wells by the artist, and at the time was expected to remain in place for 18 months.

The Cathedral has announced that visitors will have until midAugust 2024 to view the cast iron sculpture. In its place will be ‘space’.

Wells Cathedral’s Canon Chancellor, the Rev Dr Megan Daffern, said: “DOUBT has been with us for longer than initially

DOUBT was installed in Niche 338 on Wells Cathedral’s West Front three years ago

expected, so we have decided to invite space to follow it – both literally and metaphorically.

“Theologically and artistically, we need space to wonder and grow in our relationship with God; to invite spaciousness in ourselves, in our souls and in our community, and space to pause replacing busy thoughts and activities. So we are committing to a three-year ‘space’ to allow good consideration of what should be in Niche 338; including about what the future of Niche #338 should include. It also allows for a simple series of space-related projects about which local partners may wish to make suggestions.”

Informal cafe for older people to share memories

A REGULAR Heritage Cafe for older people in the local area is being hosted at the Red Brick Building in Glastonbury as part of a new project supported by The National Lottery Heritage Fund.

It is hoped that this will provide a welcoming and friendly place for people to gather, socialise and share their memories of Morlands and Baily’s – two large sheepskin

manufacturers in the Beckery area of Glastonbury.

This project builds on work done last year in a heritage project that explored the memories and experiences of people who had worked at Morlands and Baily’s. The new project, Morlands and Baily’s: Industry and Community in Glastonbury and Street, will provide more opportunities for local people to meet and share

their memories. This informal cafe will support older people and provide a sociable and relaxed place for them to chat and enjoy each other’s company.

The cafe will be held on the last Friday of each month between 10am and 12.30pm at the building in Morland Road, and is free and open to all. The cafe will start at the end of the summer, with the first session being on Friday, September 27.

A DECISION on an appeal against the refusal of plans by Somerset Council for up to 50 homes at New House Farm on the A371 at Haybridge Hill is due to be made in August.

An Inspector appointed by the Secretary of State will attend an Informal Hearing to determine the appeal by Gleeson Land. The hearing will take place at the Council Offices, Cannards Grave Road, Shepton Mallet, from August 6, and is expected to sit for two days.

The Inspector’s decision (when it is issued) and information regarding the progress of this appeal can be accessed via the Planning Inspectorate website (acp. planninginspectorate.gov.uk).

Inspector set to rule on appeal Opportunity for networking

THE Wells Business Forum is inviting local businesses to its next networking event on September 19 at The Pressoir in Wells. The event begins at 8.30am.

The guest speaker for this event is Nick Cramp, an experienced transformation coach specialising in guiding founders and CEOs through significant change.

For more information or to register, visit https:// wellsbusinessforum.uk/wellsbusiness-forum-events/ Member tickets are £10, nonmember tickets are £15.

Cycle challenge

DORSET and Somerset Air Ambulance has announced the return of its Race from the Base cycle challenge, which will be held at Henstridge Airfield on Saturday, September 7.

For the second year running, the event is an ultra-cycling challenge with three different distances to choose from: 30km (The Circuit), 60km (The Cruise) and 100km (The Climb). All routes will start and finish at the airfield, which is the home of the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance team.

Online registration is now open at: www.dsairambulance. org.uk/race-from-the-base

n ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

What happens if you can’t afford a funeral for a loved one?

PLANNING a funeral for a family member or friend is difficult enough without the added stress of not knowing how it will be paid for, and some people worry they will not be able to provide their loved one with a ‘proper’ funeral. It is important to remember a funeral doesn’t have to be expensive or extravagant to be meaningful. The essence of a meaningful funeral lies in how it honours the life of the person who has died and provides comfort and closure to their family and friends.

The focus should be on what matters most to you and your family. Essential services like a simple coffin, a basic venue for the ceremony, and necessary transportation can be sourced at a lower cost without compromising on the occasion.

There are reduced fee timeslots available at crematoriums, or you may choose not to have a full service at the crematorium, rather hold a celebration of life ceremony elsewhere. Here you can incorporate personal elements that do not cost money but add significant sentimental value.

You could make your own flower arrangement, maybe from your own garden or the garden of the person who has died or asking everyone who is due to attend to bring a flower from their garden, giving a really personal touch. Likewise, you are not obliged to cater for everyone

following the ceremony, asking people to go to a local pub to ‘raise a glass’ to the person who has died, or maybe a get together in a favourite local cafe or venue, where people fund their own refreshments. Or you may choose not to go anywhere or incorporate it within the ceremony.

For those who are on low incomes or receive certain benefits and are responsible for arranging and paying for a funeral, there is a government scheme available to help pay for the funeral. This is a Funeral Expenses Payment which is made by the Department for Work and Pensions. It ensures that those who qualify can

give their loved one a dignified funeral without bearing the full financial burden. While it may not cover everything that you want, it will cover the essentials.

The team at Wells Funeral Services are here to guide and assist you no matter what your situation may be. We can provide a professional, respectful funeral service to suit any budget or requirements. If you are unsure if you qualify for the Funeral Expenses Payments or if you need help in applying for this we can assist you.

It is important to remember the essence of a dignified funeral lies in the love and respect shown, not in the amount of money spent.

Funerals need not be expensive

The new Wells Funeral Services hearse

n WHAT’S ON

The view from the top of the St

Chance to see views from top of tower, and indulge in cream tea

ONCE again this August those with a head for heights and a taste for cream teas can enjoy themselves at St Cuthbert’s Church.

On every Sunday afternoon in August from 2pm until 5pm, the tower will be open and visitors can climb up to see (and try) the bells and then go further up for the amazing views from the top.

On their return to earth, they can indulge in a tea with traditional scones and cakes.

Tickets for the tower trip cost £6 for adults and £2.50 for children (minimum age eight). Teas are £4.50, with a squashand-biscuits option for free.

Booking beforehand is essential by contacting office@ stcuthbertswells.co.uk

Garden crammed with features to open for NGS twice in August

THE NGS Garden of the Month for August is Stoberry Garden at Stoberry Park, Wells (BA5 3LD). With stunning views over Wells and the Vale of Avalon, the five-acre garden provides a combination of vistas accented with wildlife ponds, water features, sculpture, and a walled garden sunken garden, gazebo, potager, lime walk and borders planted to give colour and interest in every season.

The garden has interesting sculpture artistically integrated into various areas as part of the creative design. Recent additions

Model railway show at Wells Town Hall

RAILWELLS 2024 including Scalefour Southwest, and special EM and 2mm Section, organised by the Wells Railway Fraternity, will take place at Wells Town Hall, Market Place, on Saturday, August 3 (10.30am-5pm), and Sunday, August 4 (10am-4pm)

Please note that this is a week early due to a mix up with booking the Town Hall.

Admission: Adults £10, Accompanied Child (14 and under) free, Wheelchair-bound free, Child up to 17 years £5. For further information go to www.railwells.com or www. scalefour.org or call organiser Chris Challis: 01308 897539.

Jas Millham with his layout at last year’s Railwells exhibition

Chat group grows

THE German chat group is growing with new members each time. The next meeting at The Quarter Jack in Wells is on August 20, and all subsequent third Tuesdays of the month (eg. September 17) from 10.30am11.30am.

More information can be obtained from Audrey Standhaft: aud.standhaft@outlook.com

Social Dancing

to the garden include a new modern rockery, a lily pond and a fernery.

The garden will be open for the NGS on Saturday, August 17, and Sunday, August 18 (1pm5pm). Home-made teas will be available, and there will be plants for sale.

Admission: £5, children free. Cashless payment available.

For more information or for other opening times, contact Frances and Tim Young on 01749 672906 or stay@stoberrypark.co.uk or see the website: www.stoberryparkgarden.co.uk

£3 including refreshments. More information from Paul Harper: 01458 210051 or paulharper@btopenworld.com

Pub music events

FREE folksong and music sessions are being organised in local pubs. The Wells Folk Sessions take place on the second Monday of every month at Queen Victoria Inn, Priddy, 9pm; and the fourth Wednesday of every month at City Arms, High Street, Wells, 8.45pm. All are welcome. More from Richard: 01761 412797, richardlm397@gmail.com

Dolly Parton songs

WEST End star Kelly O’Brien is bringing the songs of country legend Dolly Parton to Cedars Hall, Wells, in The Dolly Show on August 23. The only Dolly Parton impersonator endorsed by The Parton family, she and her band will play songs like 9 to 5, Jolene, Islands in the Stream and many others. More information on the Cedars Hall website.

Folk club meetings

MR Punch’s Folk Club meets once a fortnight on a Friday at Theale Village Hall, BA5 1PN, from 8pm. Traditional and contemporary music, song and verse. Mostly open mic, with new performers always welcome. More at punchsfolkclub.yolasite.com

Sing-along sessions

GOLDEN-OLDIES sing-along sessions for older people take place on the first Wednesday of each month at the Methodist Church Hall, 24 Southover, Wells, BA5 1UH, with Al and Annie Whitley. From 2.30pm-3.30pm, with tea and coffee from 2.15pm.

SOCIAL Dancing (Ballroom, Sequence, Latin) takes place every Friday evening at Henton village hall near Wells, BA5 1PD, from 7pm to 9pm. People do not have to be good, simply go along and join in. The cost is £6 per person, and refreshments are provided. For more information, call 07769 603937.

Irish Set Dancing

IRISH Set Dancing takes place on Thursday evenings in Dinder Village Hall from 8pm-10pm, from September to June. Beginners welcome, no partner necessary.

Board game dates

WELLS Board Game Group will meet at The Quarter Jack, Priory Road, Wells, on Wednesday, August 7, and Wednesday, August 21, from 7pm-9.30pm.

Cuthbert’s Church tower

Two views of the five-acre Stoberry Garden that overlooks Wells

Wells Board Game Group meets at The Quarter Jack

Displays of medieval combat

THE Bishop’s Palace in Wells will be bringing the summer holidays to a dramatic close over the August Bank Holiday weekend by joining forces with medieval re-enactors and combat specialists Bowlore Medieval. Encamped in the ruins of the Great Hall on August 24, 25 and 26, visitors will discover the historical re-enactment group and medieval weapons

experts who will be hosting lively displays throughout the day, with demonstrations and choreographed combat. Longbows will be used as well as pallaxes, dane hammers, alchion and langmesser to name but a few.

The Black Dog, Bowlore’s weapons and armour tent, will also give visitors to the Palace the chance to get a glimpse of

medieval life, and members of the Bowlore troupe will be on hand throughout the day to share their expertise and answer questions.

Entrance to the Medieval Weekend is included with general admission to The Bishop’s Palace and Gardens, there is no additional charge for these events. More at www. bishopspalace.org.uk

Tickets selling fast for latest adult panto

SOMERSET’S only touring adult panto group are returning for a third year after raising more than £20,000 to support local amateur dramatics in the county.

The Glastonbury And Street Pottymouth Squad (GASPS) will perform at seven venues in January and February with their adult pantomime, A-lad-in (he loves a good rub). It follows the success of their two previous pantos, Sinders and Snow *hite, which toured the county, were sell outs and helped raise £21,000 for Glastonbury and Street Musical Comedy Society.

The group will be making their debut performance in Wells at Studio 24 which will be hosting a special panto party night where the audience will be invited afterwards to join the cast and crew for a night of music on the dance floor.

The Glastonbury And Street Pottymouth Squad will be back with their new adult pantomime in January and February

The tour, which starts on January 22, also takes in Wookey Hole Caves, West Pennard, Somerton, Weston-super-Mare, Glastonbury and Bridgwater.

Tickets are selling fast and some shows have already sold out, but a few tickets are still available. See the GASPS’ website: www. gspottymouth.co.uk

TUESDAYS Pilates 9.15am Pilates Seated Seniors 10.30am

WEDNESDAYS

Barre 5pm • Pilates 6pm THURSDAYS Pilates 9.15am • Barre 10.30am FRIDAYS

Pilates 9.15am

Location Wells Town Hall. Small, mixed ability classes. To apply, contact Sally at: zest2zen@gmail.com

Himalayan

Journey to inner peace Mondays 7.30pm-8.15pm Dinder Village Hall

Quiet, clean and beautiful village hall five minutes from Wells: Orchard Mead, Sharcombe Lane, Dinder BA5 3PF For more information about Samarpan meditation contact Linda 01749 870376 Chris 07968 207678

Bowlore Medieval at The Bishop’s Palace, Wells

Expansion of charity’s Companions service

MARIE Curie, the UK’s leading end of life charity, has announced that its Marie Curie Companions service will expand to cover community hospitals across Somerset.

For almost ten years, a small but dedicated team of volunteers (Marie Curie Companions) have offered companionship, emotional support and a reassuring presence to palliative and end of life patients and their families at Musgrove Park Hospital in Taunton.

Thanks to a new agreement between Marie Curie and Somerset NHS Foundation Trust, Marie Curie Companions will soon be available at community hospitals throughout Somerset.

New sites include West Mendip Hospital at Glastonbury as well as at Bridgwater, Burnham, Crewkerne, Frome, Minehead, South Petherton, Williton and Wincanton.

Karen Burfitt, Marie Curie Associate Director Strategic Partnerships and Services South West, said: “Being admitted to hospital can be a scary and overwhelming experience, for both patients and their families, especially for those nearing the end of life. Our wonderful Marie Curie Companions sit alongside patients, keeping them company, talking to them, or simply holding their hand. Not only is this a great comfort to the patient, but also to families who can arrange for a Companion

to visit their loved one at a time when, for whatever reason, they cannot be there themselves.”

Vicki Burgess, ward sister on Eliot ward at Musgrove Park Hospital, said: “The Marie Curie companion service is so important to all the patients we care for at the hospital. The companions give their time and patience to sit and chat with our patients when they are at their most vulnerable. We’re so excited that the service is now being extended to our community hospitals.”

To support this expansion, Marie Curie is now seeking compassionate individuals to join its team of volunteers in Somerset.

Julie Draper, Marie Curie Volunteer Co-ordinator, said: “Volunteering as a Marie Curie Companion is a unique and rewarding opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of patients and their loved ones. If you’ve got some time you could spare and would like to make a real difference to people at the end of their lives, then please consider getting in touch. We also have some voluntary roles you can do over the phone from home.”

To find out more, contact Julie Draper by emailing Julie. draper@mariecurie.org.uk or call 07921 278893.

For more information about Marie Curie Companions, visit www.mariecurie.org.uk/ companions

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View every issue of Wells Voice online at issuu.com/wellsvoice

n AROUND THE SOCIETIES

WELLS CIVIC SOCIETY

AMATEUR archaeologist, Andrew Buchanan, intrigued members of the Wells Civic Society with his fascinating talk and tour of the dig at Westburysub-Mendip.

This visit was a follow-up to the talk Andrew gave to the Society, and despite the drizzle, was greatly enjoyed. The Romano-British ‘villa’ which is being investigated has given up a number of artifacts and offers some insight into the life of, what is thought to be, a fairly wealthy farmer / merchant around the third century.

Following the discovery of a lead ‘pig’ and a small hoard of silver denarii buried nearly 2,000 years ago, early investigation between 2017 and 2019 found evidence of metalworking and other human activity. Use of geophysics pinpointed the site of a sizable structure, and excavation revealed a building with stone walls and a tiled roof. A fragmented millstone, pieces of cooking pots and animal bone, coins, oyster shells, hobnails and even shards from glass vessels and much more has been found at the excavation site.

The group was asked to imagine what the area might have looked like so long ago; the artifacts show evidence of pottery from outside of the area, and other evidence indicates that local produce might have been traded further afield.

There are plans to display significant finds at the Wells & Mendip Museum as part of a future exhibition, together with the story behind the site.

Chris Winter, chair of the Civic Society, said: “We are very grateful to Andrew and his colleagues for their time but also for their passion. The Westbury Society makes a significant contribution to local knowledge and we are very happy to support their work. There is a direct link, for more information about the Westbury site, on the Society’s new website www. wellscivicsociety.org.uk.”

WELLS TUESDAY WI

JUNE’S meeting was a forensic dentist telling us tales of people who had tried to disappear to start a new life, all of them unsuccessfully. Joan of Leeds, the rebellious 14th-century nun, should definitely have known better.

We have had a lot of things on this month with trips to see the excellent Jane Austen Courtship event and Macbeth at the theatre festival and Freud’s last session at Wells cinema. This month’s film is Fly Me to the Moon. How lucky we are to live in Wells.

After much planning 30 of us went on the electric boat, The Dutchess of Cocklemoor, in Langford and had an excellent lunch at The Wharf. So relaxing floating along but I fear too much chatter scared away the wildlife. It did give us a chance to reflect on the clean river resolution.

Beverley and Alan invited us all (and our nearest and dearest) to a fab games afternoon and evening on their glorious campsite, and several ladies and partners stayed over to enjoy the hospitality further.

At last, we have enjoyed some

Andrew Buchanan shows members of Wells Civic Society the significance of parts of the structure of the Romano-British villa

August 2024

n AROUND THE SOCIETIES

glorious sunshine to cycle, walk and play rounders. Now the exams are over we will be able to get back to indoor walking netball with a training session coming up from England netball and Thursday night pickleball. The boules team played in the tournament organised for charity by Rotary at The Bishop’s Palace. The Saturday supper club are going rogue and having a Sunday afternoon tea at The Loft.

Later this month we have three teams in the County Quiz, and we’re looking forward to enjoying a three-day binge –viewing a selection of members’ gardens with Blooming Fun. In addition, we are delighted to be hosting our sister WI Wells Monday on August 6. We have such big groups it is a rare opportunity to get together and enjoy each other’s company.

WELLS FLORAL ART CLUB

ON Saturday, July 6, members, friends and guests met at St Thomas’ Church Hall for the club’s annual cream tea. Chairwoman Sylvia Ingham welcomed special guests Ian and Ruth Ames-White before introducing our area demonstrator Sally Taylor. This year’s fundraiser is supporting the Wells in Mosaic project.

Sally used this title for her demonstration. After researching the subject Sally began by arranging white larkspur and stocks to represent the swans from The Bishop’s Palace. Her second design depicted Wells In Bloom. Sally had shaped a quatrefoil on a stand into which she placed hostas and ivies before adding a range of pink geminis, spray roses and avalanche roses together with sweet William and purple phlox.

A design in honour of Harry Patch was the subject for the next arrangement. White agapanthus were placed in a metal container to represent peace, green roses were added for camouflage, echinaecea seed heads were used as ammunition and hedgerow seed heads for the devastation left after war. A very thoughtprovoking piece of work.

Sally’s last arrangement was full of colour. Erimurus lilies were used for feathers, then cream calla lilies, yellow roses and peach lisianthus were placed in wooden arches to represent Wells carnivals. After thanking

Sally, Sylvia invited Ruth and Ian to give a short talk about the mosaic. The club will sponsor the Old Deanery Garden window. The garden was first designed by Dr William Turner in the 16th century. A cream tea with scones made by committee member Elaine Lewis was served by the committee to complete the afternoon.

Then, on Tuesday, July 9, Tracy Rowbottom from Flower Vision in Bristol was our guest demonstrator. Tracy brought ideas for a summer wedding as her demonstration, beginning with a floral headdress. This was followed by a large floor arrangement suitable for the entrance to the event followed by a candelabra, a shower bouquet, bud vases and finally glass vase all filled with a beautiful array of flowers.

Tracy used a large amount of garden foliage and passion flowers together with pink roses and gerbera, blue hydrangeas, white ami and oriental lilies, yellow roses and the star of the show a new chocolate coloured rose called Teddy. Fay Low gave

the vote of thanks and Jenny Bodenaham and Elaine Lewis served the teas.

We will not be meeting in August but we will begin the autumn demonstrations with National Demonstrator Pam Lewis on Tuesday, September 10, at St Thomas’ Church Hall, Wells, at 2.15pm.

Jenny Jones

CITY OF WELLS LIONS

THE City of Wells Lions tried their hand at bowls this month, kindly invited by Wells Bowls Club, and instructed by some brave members. We had fun, and it’s good to know what else goes on in the city.

We have also had the pleasure of welcoming three new members this quarter. Lions are here to support the community, and the more there are of us, the more we can do. Please get in contact on our Facebook page if you are interested in joining us.

We are currently flexing our muscles, ready to put on the Moat Boat Race again.

OVEREATERS ANONYMOUS

ANYONE for whom eating is a problem is welcome at meetings of Overeaters Anonymous. The group is a 12 Step Fellowship – not a diet club –which meets in the Portway Annexe, Wells, on Tuesday evenings from 7pm-8pm.

More information from oagb. org or from local contacts: 07989 474570 or 07498 119862.

WELLS WOMEN IN TOUCH

THE theme for the latest meeting was My Oldest Book – either by year of publication or the oldest owned. We shared a wide range of books and many held memories of late-parents, grandparents and even greatgrandparents. Several were given as presents or prizes (good behaviour being a common theme) dating back to the early 19th century and included religious books.

Cherished childhood fiction included an 1881 copy of Shakespearian Tales in Verse by Mrs Valentine with beautiful bookplate illustrations. A title brought to further knowledge was A Million Years of Man by Richard Carrington. We heard a reading from The Poetical Works of Robert Burns and noted that there were no pictures in John Ruskin’s Modern Painters.

A Second World War manual on How a Motor Vehicle Works (price 1/-) was issued to a father when he enlisted. A DutchEnglish dictionary, bought in the 1960s, is still in use but Walkers Pronouncing Dictionary published in 1876 is not. Finally, we laughed at the definitions in The People’s Common Sense Medical Advisor by RV Pierce MD (pub. 1883).

We started the meeting on English Cheese with some interesting facts about cheese. Did you know that 56 per cent of the cheese eaten in England is Cheddar? And that people in Greece eat the most cheese –33.38kg each year, compared with 23.88kg in France and a mere 10.1kg in the UK. We then went on to discuss various types of English cheese, some with wonderful names like Black Bomber, Croglin and Stinking Bishop.

After this we were more than

Continued on page 44

Sally Taylor and Ruth Ames-White at the Wells Floral Art Club meeting in St Thomas’ Church Hall on July 6

The City of Wells Lions have welcomed three new members this quarter

n AROUND THE SOCIETIES

From page 43

ready for the main event of the evening – tasting all the different cheeses we had brought. After much savouring, discussion and re-tasting we decided that the winner for us was Dorset Red, with honourable mention given to Yorkshire Wensleydale, Wyfe of Bath and Somerset Brie.

If you are interested in joining us, please call Jean Brown on 07767 608814.

WELLS AND DISTRICT WILDLIFE GROUP

ONE question which quite a few people have asked me recently is, “where are the butterflies?”. When I ask this question of others, I get mixed replies ranging from comments on their absence to comments on their abundance. We have a chance until August 4 to find out how butterflies are really doing this year by taking part in the big butterfly count run by butterfly conservation (bigbutterflycount@butterflyconservation.org). It only requires 15 minutes of our time and is a nice way to spend time concentrating on nature whilst giving us a chance for a period of calm in a busy day.

On July 2 there was a visit to Ubley Warren on a warm, sunny evening to observe and identify the plants, insects and birds which are found on this area of limestone with a history of lead mining. Highlights included banks of wild thyme, areas of orchids and other limestoneloving plants. Birds were well represented with Stonechats being easily observed as they sang from the top of gorse bushes. Other birds recorded included: linnets, song and mistle thrush, wren and chiffchaff.

Our programme continues with a field meeting. On Tuesday, August 20, there will be an evening walk (8pm-9.30pm) around The Bishop’s Palace Moat in Wells with members of the Somerset Bat Group. You can learn how to use a bat detector and get facts about the different species.

This event always produces a good number of bats with several species seen.

You can book for this event on bookings@wdwg.org.uk and for more information please

phone Katie on 07415 350062. £5 per adult (payable on booking), under 16s free.

Graham Allen

HENTON AND DISTRICT GARDENING CLUB

OUR new and exciting calendar of talks and events will start on Wednesday, September 18, at 7pm for 7.30pm in Henton Village Hall when Arthur Cole, Head Gardener at The Newt, will take us through the changes and updates to this beautiful and inspired gardens in Bruton with his talk The Newt, Past, Present and Future. Coffee, raffle and a warm welcome to visitors, £5. September is a great time to renew your subscription.

More information on hentongardenclub.weebly.com

WELLS U3A

WELLS u3a continues to be very active during the summer. Being so popular there were two trips organised to Exeter Quay where a fun sort of a talk and singalong was enjoyed in the Tourist Info office at the old Custom House on the Quay. There was then time to explore the restored quayside, now still a working harbour, but also a tourist attraction. Most people happily sat on the top deck of the Stuart Line cruiser to sail down the canal, past the locks and onto the River Exe to Exmouth along with a cream tea to help enhance the journey past the rolling Devon countryside.

The Out & About Group enjoyed a summer picnic in a wonderful garden in Rodney Stoke on one of the very few sunny days in July but not all groups meet outside where the weather is not a problem.

The Play Reading Group is one of these, who meet in Wells Library twice a month. Plays are borrowed from Yeovil Library, from a huge selection of plays, from serious to the frivolous. During July the group read Calendar Girls but due to a lack of male parts, some of the male members had to make their voices higher to play parts of the ladies. It is a chance to play all kinds of characters and practice a wide variety of accents without having to learn words. The library is very tolerant of the noise and laughter from this group.

If you prefer poetry, Wells u3a has a Poetry Appreciation group who also meet two or three times a week in a member’s home so noise and laughter is not a problem.

Maybe Shakespeare is more attractive to you? We have a Shakespeare Group that view and discuss several of the Bard’s plays. They also learn about the life of Shakespeare and how it was influenced by the sort of world in which he lived.

Appreciating Literature is another lively group that read and discuss an eclectic range of books either from the library or they bring their own choices to the meetings. This is just one of three book groups within Wells u3a, but if you would like to write yourself there is a Creative Writing group. This group has some interesting sessions, with stories and poems, a play for voices and have also had an informative and enjoyable talk given by a copy-holder and publisher. A chance to get many helpful tips on writing yourself.

There are chances for all the members, despite whichever groups they belong to, to get together. One of these is the monthly talks held at the Museum but recently there was

a Paella and Pud lunch held at Wells football club where a mobile kitchen produced vast quantities of chicken and seafood paella.

There are other events, which involve food, about four times a year, open to all members. If you would like to discover the full list of groups available within Wells u3a go to https://u3asites.org. uk/wells/home

Ann Brown

MENDIP FIBROMYALGIA SUPPORT GROUP

WE were pleased to welcome Carol Plenty from Mendip YMCA to give us an update on their amazing work. We did not appreciate the wide spread of ages for the clients. Working with homeless clients at this time of lack of homes to rent must be difficult.

Our next meeting on August 7 at Binegar and Gurney Slade Memorial Hall will be a morning of fun playing games we remember from our childhood, from Kerplunk to Beetle.

For more information about our group (that also covers long Covid and anyone with constant pain) do contact Tanya Flagg: tanya@mendipfmsg.org

ST THOMAS WOMEN’S FELLOWSHIP

WITH the title Gardening for Pleasure we heard from Jo Stevenson of her work at The Bishop’s Palace. Besides the very beautiful formal garden they also run a community garden where volunteers assist in the production of vegetables and flowers with the excess sold to the public. They have several small groups, including senior school children as well as adults.

The sessions give participants much-needed social contact and a sense of peace and wellbeing. It enables people to meet socially, but also provides a service keeping the gardens in good order. It was so enlightening to learn of these activities and how well the space is used for the benefit of the community, something not many of us knew about.

In August we have a casual friendly afternoon with a cream tea at the Swan Hotel, outside weather permitting.

Pat Dyer

Members of the Wells u3a Play Reading Group reading Calendar Girls

Bishop joins members for game on Palace lawns

CROQUET

MEMBERS of The Palace Croquet Club were delighted when the President of the club, Bishop Michael, found time in his busy schedule to join them

Best scoring of season so far

on the lawns of The Bishop’s Palace one afternoon recently for a game of croquet. Members of the club were also delighted that Past Chairman, Guy Arnoux, was able to join them for a lovely afternoon on the lawns.

The Palace Croquet Club welcomes new members. Introductory lessons are given so no experience is necessary. If interested in playing, contact Club Secretary Jonathan Rendel on 01749 345355.

One-shot win in championship

THE Wells Golf Club Championships were held in warm and dry weather with the course set up to be a challenge, especially with some of the pin positions.

Chris Stone won the Men’s Championship with a particularly good game on the second day when he managed to sneak his way through to win by one shot. Peter Cherry was just one shot behind.

Reece Tucker, the youngest competitor of the weekend, with a playing handicap of 17, managed to score a nett 135 (-5) and win the Nett Trophy by 4 shots.

The Ladies’ Championship was won by Sienna Elliot with a gross 169 (83+86).

The 36 hole Nett Shield went to Joan Stembridge with two consistent rounds of golf, nett 154 (77+77). The best nett prize for the second day was won by the Ladies’ Captain, Philippa Gowen, with a nett 73.

A mixed friendly match at

The Mendip was enjoyed on a cloudy but dry Sunday. There were tales of amazing bunker shots going straight down the hole for a birdie two, as well as counting how many golf balls had been lost. Tina and Terry, Polly and Andy and Veronica and Stuart all won their games making the match halved.

A Ladies Interclub match was played in summer conditions at last. The fairways were fast and the greens challenging. Home

advantage proved crucial and Wells won 4-3. Sandy, Veronica and Julie won their matches.

There was an excellent turnout for the 4BBB Open in pleasant conditions which were favourable for scoring well. Overall winners were Alan Mannings and Ian Allwood, Wells GC, with 46pts.

The best Ladies team were Polly Clark (Wells) and Dawn Chadwick (Weston-super-Mare GC) 43pts.

A LARGE field of 148 competitors played in the RAFA Trophy event in lovely weather and with the Mendip Golf Club course in great condition. This resulted in the best scoring of the season so far with 23 players beating Par 71. Keith Gadsden showed a welcome return to form by winning Div 3 with 66. Div 2 went to Lee Callow again with 66. Div 1 was won by Josh Mowat again with 66. However the Trophy Winner was Men’s Captain Mark Necker with the best of the 66s. Gross Winner was Ben Cox with a fine Gross 71. 48 ladies played in the Texas Scramble which saw a win for Karen Cookson/Debbie Godwin/ Diane Stanton/Pauline Williams with a net 60. In second place were Maureen Charlton/Lally Gibson/Carol King/Pauline Young with 61 after count back from Bron Cooper/Jo Espley/ Jan Fukuyama/Edwina Willis. The Ladies ICL Team visited Cricket St Thomas but went down 2-5, wins coming from Ali Kay and Ann Padley. Although the weather was challenging 20 Ladies supported Lady Captain Ann Padley on her away day at Yeovil and a good time was had by all.

One of Mendip’s Juniors is 10-year-old Millfield schoolgirl Georgie Powell, currently playing off a handicap of 25.9. Georgie has recently won the Regional Final of the Faldo Futures event and got to meet Nick Faldo. She now progresses to the National Final in August where 144 youngsters will compete at the Belfry. Another youngster, Junior Captain Connie Cox, played in the 36-hole County Girls Championship at Enmore and won the Best Net prize.

The Avalon Seniors Team maintained their good form with a halved match away to Tall Pines with wins from Gary Quin/Dave Golledge and Kevin Carmody/John Stembridge and a valuable half from Simon Brand/ Paul Godwin.

The Seniors Friendly Team had a halved match when visiting Long Ashton, a narrow defeat when visiting Taunton & Pickeridge and a further halved match when visiting Cumberwell.

Winners at the Wells Golf Club Championship weekend

Bishop Michael with members of The Palace Croquet Club

GOLF