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December 2020 Issue 42
Tel: 01749 672029
www.wellsvoice.co.uk
Sadler Street, Wells BA5 2RR
Christmas message from the Bishop – page 13 l Christmas ghost story – page 26 Rotary Club holds special fundraiser Market stall and music will go some way to compensating for not having Reindeer Parade Turn to page 2
Appeal for stories of life on buses Vintage vehicle historian aiming to write book hopes to hear from former drivers and conductors Turn to page 5
W E L L S LO YA LT Y C A R D
Loyalty scheme an instant hit
Len composes special cry to lift the spirits – page 3
The first completed cards in the new shopping loyalty league have already been handed in Turn to page 7
DENTAL AND IMPLANT CENTRE WELLS Priory Dental are accepting new patients, and our dental plans start from only £9.49/month. See www.priorydental.com for full details.
D E N TA L WELLS
Dr Ryan Hughes GDC 85731
Dr Helena Morrell GDC 76006
Dr Ewan Davidson GDC 60245
Dr Hannah York GDC 177544
Dr Christopher Burt GDC 271122
01749 678040 www.priorydental.com
THE SQ UARE SOFT PLAY
PRIORY
PRIORY
ROAD
THE QU AR (WETHE TER JACK RSPO ONS)
Priory Dental is a trading name of Dr Ryan K Hughes, registered with the General Dental Council (registration number 85731) - see www.gdc-uk.org. Priory Dental is registered with the Care Quality Commission (CQC) - see www.cqc.org.uk.
2
wellsvoice n NEWS
wellsvoice
December 2020
www.wellsvoice.co.uk CONTAC TS Editor and publisher Andy Vallis andy@wellsvoice.co.uk 07906 499655 01749 675157 Advertising sales@wellsvoice.co.uk 01749 675157 Editorial news@wellsvoice.co.uk 07906 499655 01749 675157
Find us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/ wellsvoice Follow us on Twitter: @wells_voice View every issue online at issuu.com/ wellsvoice A member of the Independent Community News Network
LOC AL INFORMATION
JANUARY DEADLINE
Wells City Council www.wells.gov.uk 01749 673091 Police www.avonandsomerset.police.uk General inquiries: 101 Emergency: 999 Fire www.dsfire.gov.uk General inquiries: 01392 872 200 Emergency: 999 NHS www.nhs.uk Urgent calls: 111 Emergency: 999
To ensure your news or letter is included in the January issue, please contact us by December 16.
YOUR VIE WS Letters for publication can be sent by email to news@wellsvoice.co.uk. We reserve the right to edit letters.
COMPL AINTS Despite our best efforts, we sometimes get things wrong. We always try to resolve issues informally at first but we also have a formal complaints procedure. If you have a complaint about anything in Wells Voice, contact the Editor using the details above. We aspire to follow the Code of Conduct of the NUJ (National Union of Journalists), which holds journalists to a high standard of behaviour. Further details of the complaints process can be found on the Wells Voice website, or can be obtained by contacting the Editor.
PUBLISHER’S NOTE: Wells Voice is independent. We cannot take responsibility for content or accuracy of adverts, and it is advertisers’ responsibility to conform to all relevant legislation. We cannot vouch for any services offered. Opinions are not necessarily those of the editor. Wells Voice is distributed each month to residents. Feedback is always welcomed – email news@wellsvoice.co.uk. This month 7,000 copies will be distributed around Wells and surrounding villages.
ORIENT EXPRESS CHINESE MEALS TO TAKE AWAY 22 Priory Road, Wells, BA5 1SY
01749 679555 Open 5-10:30pm Tuesday-Sunday
Scan the QR code to order with us or order online at orientexpressofwells.co.uk ~ DELIVERY AVAILABLE ~
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Mistletoe being sold at last year’s Reindeer Parade by Wells Rotary Club, which will have a stall on December 12 this year selling antler headbands
Music, antlers – and maybe mistletoe WITH no Reindeer Parade this year, Wells Rotary Club decided that it still needed to do something for the community to enjoy, and to make some money for Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance. So it will have a stall at Wells Market on Saturday, December 12, at which it will be selling headband reindeer antlers. To add to the enjoyment, Paul Cannon of the Wells Jazz Collective is organising for a number of musicians to provide a smooth and relaxed musical backdrop from a performance area alongside The Crown. The live music will run from 10.30am until 1pm, with musicians from the Wells Jazz Collective playing in combinations of keyboard, bass, sax, guitar and melodica. Rotary Reindeer Parade committee lead Andy Coulson said: “Rotary are self-funding this event and all proceeds will be donated to Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance. Please come along and enjoy the music and atmospheres and donate to this amazing charity.” The Rotary Club may also be selling mistletoe at the event – as it would normally do at the Reindeer Parade. Mendip District Council initially
advised against doing so in case it encouraged behaviour not in keeping with Government guidelines, and mistletoe classed as a ‘non-essential’ item that should not be sold during the lockdown. But the announcement that lockdown is to end on December 2 leaves open the possibility that mistletoe can be sold after all. A district council spokesperson said: “During this current lockdown only essential items are permitted to be sold, mistletoe does not constitute an essential item, which is all traders are permitted to sell at the markets just now. “From December 2, the current lockdown will cease. If a trader wishes to trade at our markets, and we have available space to accommodate them, and they meet the government criteria, we will be happy to work with them. “We understand the government stance is that mistletoe will not be banned this season and Mendip District Council has no plans to do so either.” Andy Coulson said: “With the lifting of lockdown it may be possible to sell mistletoe, in which case we’ll see you on the day.”
Email: sales@wellsvoice.co.uk
wellsvoice
December 2020
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n NEWS
Ambition to cover city in joyful bunting By Emma James PLANS to cover the city of Wells in home-made bunting are well under way as the Wells Community Bunting Project page is launched on Facebook. Sarah Briton, Kirstie Harris, Rachel Humphreys and Emma Lefevre are working hard to finetune the details of how people of all ages can come together to make Wells ‘buntiful’. “We got so excited about
‘We are at a time when community is really important and this is a project all about kindness’
buntifying the High Street, we thought why not do the whole city,” said Sarah. The idea emerged from the city council Covid Recovery Working Group together with Project Factory with the aim of raising community spirits through the power of craft. “We’ve been amazed at the incredible giving response to the Covid situation and we wanted to build on that,” said Emma. “Everyone is looking forward to spring as we mark the end of a very long year. We are at a time when community is really important and this is a project all about kindness.” For those who are worried about a lack of sewing skills, the group proposes providing instructional videos and even ‘Bunting Ambassadors’ who will be able to give one-toone support on Zoom during lockdown. It is hoped that people will be able to use scraps of
Sarah Briton sewing some bunting
material from home, making the project plastic-free and environmentally friendly. Whilst the idea is principally about bringing people together, the group also hopes to initiate a fun competitive element with awards such as Best Street, Best Recycling, Most Creative, Best Junior Bunting and Best Beginner. There will be a system of registration and those taking part will be encouraged to post photos of their creations on Facebook and Instagram. The group continues to plan with great enthusiasm and is looking forward to the Easter holidays in 2021 when the houses, gardens and public places of the City of Wells and beyond will be festooned with bunting. “We need to expand the kindness that has been on offer and celebrate it,” said Sarah. “Bunting is symbolic. It’s about linking people together.”
‘I wish you a Happy Christmas’ Wells Town Crier Len Sweales has written this cry specially for Christmas 2020
Oyez, Oyez, Oyez, I have not been able to be out much this year, but Wells Voice has allowed me to spread some Christmas cheer, So this cry is directed at all you readers out there, dreaming of a family Christmas full of love and festive fare. Let us raise our hearts in celebration, for those who have given their all to support this nation, Nurses, carers, and shop workers too, along with police, firefighters and ambulance personnel who Have carried us through the past nine months of plight, to hopefully a time when the end is in sight. So let’s all share our love in this festive season, and look positively forward, we have every reason, And on behalf of myself, Wells Voice, and the businesses that serve you here, may I wish you a Happy Christmas and a prosperous New Year. That’s it for now from the fat man in green, stay safe everyone, God Save The Queen. Got News? Call 07906 499655
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December 2020
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New way this year to tell Christmas story THE annual Christmas Eve Crib Service has been a popular part of the Christmas celebrations for years. This year, because it is not possible to gather in churches, the churches in the Wells area have found a new, special way to tell the Christmas story: with a Safari Nativity. This will be a star-led trail through the city to find the stable. Adults and children who book timed tickets will set out on a nativity trail, following the Christmas star around five of the churches involved in the event: Wells Methodist Church, St Cuthbert’s Church, the Connect Centre, Wells United Church and the Cathedral. At each stopping point on the trail they will experience another part of the story, until they reach the stable. As they go round,
children will collect stickers of each of the characters they meet to make their own nativity scene. The safari is planned for the afternoons of Monday, December 21, and Tuesday, December 22, as long as government restrictions allow. Several timed groups will be going round the trail each afternoon, starting between 1pm and 3.20pm, and the numbers in each group will be limited to ensure that social distancing is possible. Tickets – which are free – can be booked through https:// tinyurl.com/safarinativity. The link can be found on the St Cuthbert’s Church website and Connect Centre or St Cuthbert’s social media. They can also be booked by phoning 01749 679300.
A scene from the 2019 Christmas Eve nativity at St Thomas’ Church
Advent trail in church garden THE popular Christmas Eve nativity at St Thomas’, when more than 300 people normally squeeze into the church, will not be possible this year. There will, though, be an advent trail in the church garden, from November 29 to December
24. People will be challenged to find all the clues and work out the answer, following which there will be an advent activity to pick up from inside the church, which is usually open between 10am and 3pm Mondays to Thursdays.
Strong support for city council’s bid to buy Annexe THERE has been strong support for Wells City Council’s desire to buy the Portway Annexe. The building was a base for training and courses provided by SS&L but their decision to close the centre means that the building is likely to be sold. Wells city councillor John Osman has been leading discussions on the building’s future with community groups and Somerset County Council,
which owns the freehold. He has received dozens of emails from individuals supporting the campaign, and more than 20 from groups saying they would like to rent space or hire rooms in the annexe, should the city council take ownership. He is continuing to draft the business case that will be presented to the city council in December, and has negotiated with the county council to allow
the city council until January to submit proposals to purchase the property. The asking price is likely to be at least £600,000. On December 1, Cllr Osman is representing the city council at a Mendip District Council meeting, when the district council will determine whether the building can be considered an Asset of Community Value, which would help with putting together a bid. “I am delighted that the
community has come together behind Wells City Council’s bid to purchase the Annexe,” said Cllr Osman. “I hope that Mendip District Council will accept Wells City Council’s application to designate the building an Asset of Community Value, which will give the council and the community more time to develop long-terms plans for this important building.”
Bowley’s Garage MERRY CHRISTMAS to all our customers
01749 674554
www.bowleysgarage.co.uk Westfield Road Trading Estate Wells BA5 2HS
To advertise, contact Andy on 01749 675157
Email: sales@wellsvoice.co.uk
wellsvoice
December 2020
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Historian appeals for bus travel stories THIS year is the centenary of the first regular bus service from Wells to Bristol. The anniversary has prompted vintage vehicle historian John Hitchings to research the history of bus services from Wells – and he has uncovered so much material that he is now considering writing a book on the subject. With that in mind, he is appealing for people with personal knowledge of the bus services to share their stories with him. “The facts and figures have all been relatively easy to obtain but what I’m really interested in is the human element,” he said. “I’m particularly keen to discover people’s recollections and reminiscences of bus travel in the past. Are there any retired bus drivers, conductors or their families out there who have stories to tell? “Any information would be most welcome, together with any photos to bring the stories to life.” The first journey on Bristol Tramways company’s route No 27 took place on Wednesday, August 25, 1920. Two buses operated the route every two hours, both operating from the tram depot at Brislington in Bristol. The first bus left Bristol
On the buses n On the early journeys it took two hours and seven minutes to go from Bristol to Wells and two hours and 10 minutes from Wells to Bristol – all on solid tyres. n The journey now takes about one hour and 20 minutes
This photograph of a single-decker in Wells Market Place was taken in Picture courtesy of Bristol Vintage Bus Group about 1954 at 08.00, arriving in Wells at 10.07. It then left Wells at 10.30 arriving on the Tramways Centre in Bristol at 12.40. The route went from Bristol to Pensford Hill, Chew Magna, Chew Stoke, West Harptree, East Harptree, Litton, Chewton Mendip and Wells. The managing director of the Tramways Company found the route to be totally unsuitable for buses and the 27 (renumbered to 376 in 1967) was re-routed via the main road between Bristol and Wells in 1921. depending on the traffic. n The buses used on the initial service were two new 29-seat Bristol four-tonners built by the bus company themselves in Brislington. n The single fare between Bristol and Wells was three shillings and sixpence.
New dates for violinist to perform AN internationally renowned violinist whose performances at Wells Cathedral in November had to be cancelled will appear instead at two concerts in December. Tasmin Little was due to perform two Remembrance Concerts at the Cathedral but these had to be cancelled due to the second lockdown. Tasmin and the Fantasia Orchestra have agreed to reschedule their visit
to the Cathedral for two Classical Christmas Concerts at 7.30pm on Friday, December 18, and Saturday, December 19. The programme will include Bach’s Violin Concerto in E Major – the final Concerto performance of Tasmin’s career. Fantasia Orchestra will also be performing Corelli’s Christmas Concerto, Tchaikovsky’s Serenade for Strings, and a number of festive favourites.
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The residents of Wells complained that there was no morning service into Bristol which prompted Bristol Tramways to base two buses
in Wells in 1921. They also extended the route to Street in competition with two other operators and opened their depot in Wells in 1922. The terminus in Wells was in the Market Place. This became the bus station from 1920 to 1955. A new bus station was opened next to the depot in Priory Road in 1955 and this was used until the end of 1985. The bus station was then moved to its current site on the old coach park in Princes Road in 1986. To contact John with information and reminiscences, email jhitchingsbus@ blueyonder.co.uk n Some of the vintage buses that used to run on the Wells to Bristol route have reappeared in recent years for special journeys between the cities on New Year’s Day, but because of the pandemic, this service will not be operating on January 1, 2021.
Do you need help for a child or young person that you know? I'm a local therapist, based in Wells, who supports children, young people and their families to help them manage big feelings, stressful situations and other life challenges.
Elaine Hutchinson www.creatingcalm.co.uk hello@creatingcalm.co.uk 01749 599066 creative art and Play therapy | Autplay | trauma play
sand tray therapy | emotional Logic coaching | tele-therapy
Email: news@wellsvoice.co.uk
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n NEWS
Probe into why water streams across road INVESTIGATIONS are being carried out into a mysterious source of water that flows continuously across the road at the lower end of Bekynton Avenue, Wells. Officials from both Somerset County Council and Mendip District Council have been trying to identify where the water is coming from and what can be done about it. Residents have been calling for action for months, and would like to see something done before the temperature drops again and the road becomes icy. One of those affected, Pat Thomas, moved to Bekynton Avenue 18 months ago and said the problem has being going on for as long as she has lived there. “To access the crescent where I live one has to drive or walk through a continuous flow of water which I am led to believe
Pat Thomas and Niall Robertson at the end of Bekynton Avenue where water has been flowing constantly across the road is from an underground spring,” she said. “In cold weather this freezes. It is therefore perilous to drive
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Firm reconsiders requirements AN accountancy firm in Wells is planning to relocate to smaller premises because home-working has been so successful that it does not need such a large office for staff. Probusiness has applied to Mendip District Council for a change of use of its current offices at St Lawrence Lodge in Chamberlain Street so that they can be converted into four selfcontained flats. In the planning documents, the company says that the
building has been substantially unoccupied since March, when Covid-19 caused office-based work practices to be replaced by staff home-working. This has worked so well that it will continue after Covid-19 measures have ceased, and so the building is surplus to current requirements. Probusiness intends to resume office-based work at smaller premises in Wells where levels of occupancy will not be the same as previously.
Heating scheme to help elderly
ON WE SU ’RE DE NDA ALS CE YS O O MB D PE ER URI N ! NG
6 QUEEN STREET, WELLS, SOMERSET BA5 2DP 01749 676700 SHOP@BRITELLY.COM FIND US ON FACEBOOK
over it or attempt to walk over it. Residents of this crescent are mainly elderly and several are disabled. “Contractors for British Gas have recently excavated in several places in the crescent to trace a serious gas leak which I
am led to believe was because of water entering the system as a direct result of a raised water table from this overflowing spring water. “I hope that some action can be taken before another winter and before someone has a serious accident.” The district council’s senior asset maintenance officer, Niall Robertson, recently carried out a site visit. He checked the council’s storm drains in the vicinity and said that they all appeared to be running well, and suspects that the cause is a new spring. The county council is now carrying out investigations to ascertain whether the water is coming from a spring or a broken water pipe. A spokesperson for Somerset County Council said: “We are aware of the issue and investigatory works are ongoing to establish the cause. Work can then be undertaken to remedy the problem.”
To advertise, contact Andy on 01749 675157
THE heating oil industry’s Cold Weather Priority Scheme (CWP) is designed to identify those customers, aged 75+, who are most vulnerable to cold conditions. This means that locally, Wells firm Tincknell Fuels, as a heating oil supplier and heating specialist, can take appropriate steps to prioritise heating oil deliveries and heating services, dependent on people’s need,
especially in times of fuel shortage or extremely cold weather. Those who fall into this category and would like to be part of the CWP initiative for oil or heating services can contact Tincknell Fuels with their details by calling 01749 683911 or emailing enquiries@ tincknells.com. This is a free service so it will cost nothing to be part of the scheme.
Email: sales@wellsvoice.co.uk
wellsvoice
December 2020
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WELLS LOYALTY
RD W E L L S LO YA LT Y C A
SHOPPING SCHEME
BRITELLY
Wells artist Chris Lee has designed the artwork for the new loyalty scheme
First loyalty cards already handed in THERE has been an enthusiastic response to the return of the revamped Wells Loyalty League. The new shopping scheme has been welcomed by shoppers and traders – and the first completed loyalty cards have already been handed in. Customers can collect a loyalty card from participating retailers, who will stamp it with the value of the purchase. When there are £100 worth of stamps on the card it is dropped into a box at the town hall Tourist Information Centre. Completed cards will be drawn each month and the winners given five £10 vouchers to spend in shops run by league members. There was no draw in November due to the lockdown, but instead there will be two draws in December. “The new loyalty league is really causing a buzz in Wells, businesses joining, cards being stamped. Who will be the first to win?” asked Rob Bevan of Protec, who was one of the founder members. Another, Louis Agabani, of Santé Wines at Bishop’s Eye, said: “It has been wonderful working with other retailers to relaunch the loyalty card. The
card will reward our most loyal and regular customers for their continued support.” The new artwork for the scheme was designed by Wells artist Chris Lee. He said: “This is a loyalty scheme that loves its customers, it’s happy to see them, and reward them. It’s called You’re Welcome, it’s our way of saying thank you. You’re welcome to all Wells has to offer, its great shops and hospitality, and keeping it local is crucial these days. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed using all our local shops, so much friendlier and so helpful when you need it. Plus we’ve just printed £3,000 worth of vouchers, if you don’t win them, I get to keep them! You’re welcome.” Robert Powell, of Basil Powell Shoes, and Philip Welch, the new Mayor of Wells, were the other founders of the new scheme. “The lockdown has been a real blow to traders in Wells, however we are delighted with the huge response we have had from traders to the relaunch of the Wells Loyalty League,” said Councillor Welch. “We expect more to join, and it will really lift off with the end of lockdown on December 2.”
Wells loyalty scheme members Amba, Basil Powell, Britelly, Gallery Jewellers, London House, Microbitz Computers, Millicans Eye Centre, Peter Douglas of Wells, Protec, Roly’s Fudge Pantry, Runway, Santé Wines at Bishop’s Eye, Scribbles, Studleys Jewellers, The Changing Room, The Laundry, Whiting & Son.
Britelly, the nostalgic gift store in Queen Street owned by Peter Culley, specialises in characterrelated gift products and greeting cards, together with classic film and TV programmes on DVD. With a slant towards mostly British popular culture, a wide selection of must-have merchandise and unique gifts are available to appeal to all generations including soft toys, games and puzzles, mugs, bowls, bags, wallets and purses. Retro is the speciality in merchandise with childhood favourites and nostalgic brands being the main theme. Ranges stocked include iconic TV shows from Dad’s Army, Doctor Who and Only Fools and Horses to cult franchises Game of Thrones, Harry Potter and Star Wars. Childhood favourites include The Moomins, Clangers, Snoopy and modern classics such as The Gruffalo and Room on The Broom. Whether you’re a fan of
u Britelly, 6 Queen Street, Wells, Somerset BA5 2DP T: 01749 676700 E: shop@britelly.com W: www.britelly.net
THE LAUNDRY The Laundry boutique (opposite Griffiths Butchers) offers a fabulous collection of fashion, jewellery and gifts with a range of prices for everyone to enjoy. You’ll find cashmere jumpers, jeans and bobble hats along with faux fur coats in an array of colours. Enjoy browsing through the unique one-off pieces and seek out those special earrings – why not treat yourself? On the run-up to Christmas the shop is full of gorgeous gifts and with a gift wrapping service you’ll find present buying fun and exciting! We continue stocking great loungewear that has seen us through the last couple of months and have extended the range of knitwear including our classic star jumpers in a cashmere blend. We look forward to seeing you all very soon and wish you all a Very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! As ever there is no pressure to SPONSORS
To join the scheme, contact Robert Powell (robert.powell2@btconnect.com), Rob Bevan (rob@protec-wells.com) or Louis Agabani (louis@bishopseye.com)
Got News? Call 07906 499655
a particular TV show or film franchise or just looking for a gift that’s a little bit different then there’s almost certainly a present solution for any generation stocked here. The store is an authorised stockist of Gibsons jigsaw puzzles offering a comprehensive range and also offers a personal ordering service for any commercially available DVD.
Chalmers HB and Wells City Council
buy, just a warm welcome and as much or as little help as you need on hand. If you would like the store to yourself please call 07970 462074 during opening hours or email theo@thelaundrywells.co.uk If you do not wish to browse, just give us a brief and we will pull a rail of clothes for you to try on in advance. Happy Shopping! u The Laundry, 58 High Street, Wells, Somerset BA5 2SN T: 01749 676516 / 07970 462074 E: theo@thelaundrywells.co.uk W: www.thelaundrywells.co.uk Two members of the Wells loyalty scheme will be featured in Wells Voice every month. A list of all the businesses currently participating in the scheme is given on the left
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Celebratory event to be bigger than ever PLANS are well underway at The Bishop’s Palace in Wells to bring some festive cheer to the area with its Christmas at the Palace event. With a start date of December 5, shortly after the national lockdown is due to end, Palace staff feel strongly that they want to bring some socially-distanced joy to the Christmas season, and are going bigger than ever before with the celebratory event. Taking place from December 5-22, the decorations will include a Christmas Traditions Window in the free area, with a painted winter scene, decorations throughout the Palace on a variety of themes, from medieval through to Victorian, Bishop’s Ken’s Christmas Feasting Table, a Victorian Christmas dining table, an Eco Christmas art exhibition created by children
from local schools, who will be letting their imaginations go wild with rubbish to create life-sized Christmas trees, Father & Mother Christmas’s North Pole HQ, and a few other surprises too. Outside the Palace, the Gardens will also be dressing up for Christmas, with outdoor illuminations on a large scale, and Christmas trees and decorations in the formal gardens. There will also be a Christmas-themed family trail which will take visitors through the Palace & Gardens, leading to a traditional nativity scene. There will be special late openings until 6.30pm on December 5, 10, 11, 12, 17, 18 and 19 to allow visitors to enjoy the lights. Entrance to Christmas at the Palace is included in standard admission.
GLASTONBURY & WELLS CATS PROTECTION
NEUTERING CAMPAIGN
From September to December 2020 the charity will offer vouchers to help with neutering costs of cats whose owners are on low income or income support benefits. We are repeating the special price we offered in our last campaign. Owners will pay £5.00 per cat and the charity will pay the balance and, also microchip your cat for free. This offer is open to residents in Glastonbury, Wells, Street, Cheddar and Shepton Mallet and surrounding areas. Contact a volunteer for your voucher:
Julia on 07833 634087 Emma on 07717 837040 Holly on 07780 955151 Gill on 01749 850660 A neutered cat is a happy and healthy cat so be a responsible owner and phone for your voucher. Pedigree cats are not eligible and vouchers will only be issued for participating vets.
Glastonbury and Wells Cats Protection Reg Charity No: 203644 (England & Wales) and SCO37711 (Scotland)
www.cats.org.uk/glastonbury
To advertise, contact Andy on 01749 675157
One Candlelight Concert planned IN an average year, Wells Cathedral would be filled with 1,000 people each night for three nights in December for its annual Candlelight Concerts. This is no average year, and for a long period, it was unclear if the Candlelight Concerts would be able to go ahead at all, but the Cathedral has announced that, assuming it is allowed to host an audience, there will be one concert on Thursday, December 10. This live concert will be a fundraiser for the Cathedral’s Bounce Back Appeal, and ticket prices will be higher than in previous years. Tickets will be available on a first come, first served basis via Eventbrite, and the ‘rule of six’ will apply. Bookings will open on Monday, November 30, at 9.30am. Anyone who has difficulties booking online is asked to contact Emily Risdon on 01749 832207.
Christmas at the Palace is due to start on December 5
Windows in street to be lit up again in Advent ‘visual delight’ CHRISTMAS community feeling and goodwill is needed this year more than ever. St Thomas Street Advent Windows 2020 should provide just that – and everyone is welcome once again. The creative artists and enthusiasts in St Thomas Street are decorating their windows to produce an exciting Advent window display for the third year in a row. The first window display will be revealed on December 1, with a new window being ‘lit’ each day at 5pm. Maps are available on posters in the street to enable visitors to find the windows, as well as on a website and on Facebook and Instagram pages. “There are an array of window themes to look forward to,” said organiser Shirley Offer. “It will be a Christmas treasure hunt. We can’t wait to see everyone’s windows, it will be a visual delight for all.” Money can be donated through participating Advent Windows letter boxes, which will
Advent Windows will be lit up again in St Thomas Street this year go to the Elim Connect Centre in Wells that supports a wide range of vulnerable people. “We want people to feel invited, excited and involved to see all the windows from 4pm each day,” said Shirley. “Please join us in our unique celebration of the Advent period in Wells.”
For news online see wellsvoice.co.uk
Email: sales@wellsvoice.co.uk
wellsvoice
December 2020
9
n NEWS
Online Christmas card dance challenge
THE people of Wells are being set a cheery Christmas challenge in an online Christmas card from Wells Coronavirus Network (WCN). They are being invited to dance along to a special recording of Joy To The World by Wells musicians Jeremy and Lorraine Millington. The song will be posted online on Facebook, TikTok and Instagram on Advent Sunday, as an antidote to dark days and a fun fundraiser for WCN. Similar in format to the popular Ice Bucket Challenge, it will feature a simple dance choreographed and filmed by Wells Cathedral School’s dance club. The public will then be challenged to post their own video of the dance, nominate friends to do likewise, and give a small sum – £5, or whatever they can afford – to the WCN’s
dedicated Just Giving page (https://bit.ly/ wcnmerrychristmas). “Charity Christmas cards have long been a means to raise funds, and with reducing waste and recycling so much in the news, it seems only natural for Christmas greetings to move online, using social media to send our love to friends, family and neighbours,” said WCN fundraising team member Deborah Pottinger. “The pandemic continues, and Wells Coronavirus Network’s 350 volunteers are still supporting many in the community by offering help with shopping, prescription collection, running the helpline and befriending calls to those who are isolated. “This is the perfect reason to launch the WCN Christmas Card Challenge – the first online Christmas card of its kind in
Lorraine and Jeremy Millington
‘Dust off your dancing shoes, look out your festive tinsel, and prepare for a little bit of festive fun’
Wells, supporting those who need us at a time of year when we all want to connect and share.” Husband and wife Jeremy and Lorraine have a devoted following for their band The Portraits. They have had songs played on national radio, and have performed several times at Glastonbury Festival. They work with young, talented musicians, and have used string work on Joy To The World from Flora MackintoshAllen (harp), Vincent Imbert (violin), Ciara Millington (viola) and Lara Standivan (cello). A montage of people dancing along to the song will be uploaded by WCN on Christmas Eve. “Dust off your dancing shoes, look out your festive tinsel, and prepare for a little bit of festive fun,” said Deborah.
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Christmas trees delivery option contact Nicky on 07751 895378 or nickyputtstott@yahoo.co.uk People who are unable to get out can also get in touch to order a tree for delivery. Prices for the trees start at £25 and there may be a small additional cost for delivery depending on distance.
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L
STOTT’S Christmas trees are due to go on sale in Wookey at the end of November – and delivery will also be available. Stott’s will be opposite the Pheasant pub on the B3139 Wells to Wedmore road from Saturday, November 28. Pre-orders are being taken –
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people of Wells enjoy looking at everybody’s glittery and sparkly offerings.” To enter, email tina. blackwill@live.co.uk or call 07450 367805. Judging will take place from December 17-19.
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Tina Blackwill in Christmas mood
F RTEAEI LDOERL-I M V EARDYE W N P1T5I O MNI LSE S G I TF H T IO FREE DELIVERY WITHIN 15 MILES STCEO G U INFTTSS CCOARSPE ODRI A CASE DISCOUNTS I LNOWRI-DMEA D E LGI VI FETR YO P N ATTAI O P TOISOSNI S BLE TA I L O R - M A D E G I F T O P T I O N S OLR PCO F TCSA S E S S P E CCI A HRRAI ST TE MGAI S C O R P O R AT E G I F T S V FE TR Y& PLOOSCSAI LB LBEE E R L A RNGAET IROANNWGIED EO FD ECLRIA N AT I O N W I D E D E L I V E R Y P O S S I B L E CA H FRTI SGT IM S S CP A ISREI S WSHPI ES C K IY,A LC R NA& TS SPECIAL CHRISTMAS CASES L AF R OAF LCARDAVF ITC & AR L SBOENE R RG E E , RPAENRG SE ON E ILNO C PE L A R G E R A N G E O F C R A F T O&R LBOYC A EER PL H OB N W H I S K Y, C R A F T G I N & S P I R I T S W H I S K Y, C R A FT GIN TR U LY I N& D ESPPEI R NIDT ES N T & L O C A L FREE, PERSONAL ADVICE IN PERSON F R E E , P E R S O N A L A D V IGCO PE BVYO P H ES IEFRTI N UR CSO HON ENR OR BY PHONE T R U LY I N D E P E N D E N T & L O C A L Visit our website for the latest case offers: LOCA T R U LY I N D E P E N D E N T & L O C A L UR GIFT VOUCHERS www.thegrapeandthegood.com 01749 G I F428685 T V O/U07823 C H E330651 RS ENDEN info@thegrapeandthegood.com INDEPL Visit our website for the latest case offers: OEC R W U IN AAN Street, Wells, BA5 2DJ www.thegrapeandthegood.com Visit our website for29 theBroad latest case offers: O L C C A MER H UR 01749 428685 / 07823 330651 www.thegrapeandthegood.com DEN DEPEN info@thegrapeandthegood.com 01749 428685 / 07823 330651 T IN WINE N E D N 29 Broad Street, Wells, BA5 2DJ INDEPE info@thegrapeandthegood.com AN MERCH WINE 29 Broad Street, Wells, BA5 2DJ ANT H C R E M
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HOUSEHOLDS and businesses are being invited to decorate their windows and outside spaces in a fun festive competition. Tina Blackwill is organising the ‘Jingle Wells’ Christmas challenge to raise money for Marie Curie. It costs £5 to enter, and the winner will receive a £50 festive hamper. Charlie Taylor of BBC Radio Somerset will be the celebrity judge. “You can decorate your windows and outside spaces in any festive attire you desire – baubles, tinsel, lights or polished shiny bells, anything goes, big or small, we’ll love it,” said Tina. “I feel as if we all really need a bit of glitter and sparkle in these unusual times and this is the perfect way to do it. I’d love as many people to enter as possible, so we can raise money for such a worthwhile cause. And I also hope the gorgeous
Email: news@wellsvoice.co.uk
wellsvoice
10
December 2020
n NEWS
Mosaic window celebrates Balch’s contribution to city
Services offered by MS group
HERBERT Ernest Balch (18691958) MA FSA was born in Wells and throughout his life made a significant contribution to the city. This can really be appreciated by visiting his collection of local artefacts and memorabilia held at Wells & Mendip Museum on Cathedral Green. The importance of Balch to the city is now also celebrated in wells in mosaic one of the 32 windows which form part of Wells in Mosaic, the sixmeter diameter artwork which aims to depict all elements of the city’s past and present, and will include a walkable map of the centre of the city. Mosaic artist Ruth AmesWhite said: “Behind each window, quatrefoil and building that I have researched is a fascinating story. I understand that 8 Cathedral Green was bought a century ago by William Wyndham, and Balch was the first curator of the museum. He lived and worked there for 40 years. I have tried to capture his Ruth Ames-White and David Walker with the Balch window passions for archaeology, caving here to say that in spite of are the many techniques that he and geology.” occurrences such as this, candles pioneered and which are used by The current curator, David are by common consent the present day cavers. Walker, said he was pleased most dependable illuminant, Building the mosaic is with the contemporary look of as they cast no treacherous progressing well. However, the mosaic and its inclusivity, as shadows, though electric torches in the current circumstances, well as how Ruth had chosen to are a good standby in such fundraising events have depict Balch and the museum. emergencies.’” had to cease, so all offers of He added: “Having described We may not agree with contributions and sponsorship in his book, the ‘gale’ from Balch on his preferences for will be very welcome. Contact the force of an underground lighting, but his discoveries and www.wellsinmosaic.org or waterfall ‘putting out the lights’, dedication are highly valued, as facebook.com/wellsinmosaic Balch writes: ‘I might pause
THE Mendip Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Society Group is pleased to offer the following services during these Covid times: n Free, confidential and impartial advice from the Mendip Citizens Advice every Thursday from 12.30pm-4pm. Simply contact the dedicated MS adviser Danielle on 07971 967898 or email MS@ citizensadvicemendip.org.uk. Help is available for anyone affected by MS in the Mendip area. n Keep Fit chair session classes via Zoom, for 30 minutes, every Tuesday and Friday. Contact Linda Bolton on 07713 097588. n Art therapist Hillary Rapp (HCPC and BAAT registered) is happy to arrange Zoom or telephone sessions to support people during this period of isolation. Call Hilary on 0773 0011 255 or email hilaryrapp@ gmail.com Follow the local MS group on Facebook @MSSocietyMendip and feel free to get in touch via mendip@msociety.org.uk. For a confidential chat, call the MS Society Helpline on freephone 0808 800 8000, Monday to Friday, 9am-7pm.
Concert DVD gift RESIDENTS at the Anchor Hanover community in Wells and MHA Torrwood at South Horrington have been sent a virtual concert performed by musicians at Millfield Prep School in Glastonbur. They were among ten care homes in the local area to receive a special DVD of the concert.
Waiting room readied to house pop-up post office WELLS City Council has offered the bus station waiting room as a temporary venue for a pop-up post office. The necessary work has been carried out to make the building ready. It now needs the Post Office to finalise the recruitment of members of staff before the unit can open. A post office facility at the bus station in Princes Road should help ease the pressure on Budgens in Bath Road. The postmaster there has been
pushing for a second post office counter but this has not so far been approved. Meanwhile, Nigel and Heather Derrick, of Natural Pets of Wells, are pressing ahead with their plans to provide post office services in their pet shop in Queen Street. They said: “We are working hard on our application. The whole application process is very lengthy as so many thorough checks have to be made, so it will take several months.”
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A Post Office spokesperson said: “We are working hard to restore Post Office service to central Wells as soon as possible as we know how important Post Office services are to a community. We have worked with Wells City Council to find suitable premises at the bus station. We are now working to source suitable staff. “We apologise for any inconvenience caused by the temporary closure of Wells Post Office, which had been due to
move to the Peacocks store before the business went into administration. In the interim the nearest alternative branch is in St Thomas Street Post Office in Bath Road. We are exploring the possibility of providing an extra Post Office counter at this location. “We have an interested retailer who wants to take on Wells Post Office. We are progressing their application.” u Letters, page 35
Email: sales@wellsvoice.co.uk
wellsvoice
December 2020
11
n NEWS
Literature festival proves doubters wrong WELLS Festival of Literature was advised against going ahead. Would audiences be safe? Would speakers actually come to Somerset? Would the festival’s finances suffer a devastating hit? Bigger festivals had retreated online. Why take the risk? Well, the volunteer organisers confronted the challenge head on. Twenty-nine speakers came to this year’s event; 11 more delivered virtually from their sofas; 2,000 people attended Cedars Hall, enjoyed time and drinks with friends and visited the online bookshop where books sold out. Another 3,500 people registered on the festival website either to live-stream during the festival or later, throughout November to catch up at a time that suited them. They donated more than £8,000 to festival funds and total numbers attending compare very favourably with the most well attended festivals in 2019 and 2017 (the 25th anniversary). Audiences were over the moon to be safely out with others, thanks to the rigorous safety measures implemented
at Cedars Hall, and thrilled with the line-up which included Charles Moore, Rachel Clarke, Rachel Johnson, Max Porter, Pragya Agarwal, Michael Eavis, Simon Armitage, Michael Wood, Charles Spencer and many more. In addition to cheering all types of audience, the festival has done its bit to support the arts. The writers could not disguise their delight. Sophy Roberts, author of The Lost Pianos of Siberia, said: “I watched as all my live appearances were cancelled one after another… but Wells stayed firm.” At the start of his talk, Jeremy Vine said: “This is so wonderful… an actual event with actual people,” and book group author of Lanny, Max Porter, said: “It was really marvellous to be in a room talking about books with other human beings.” The international poetry, short story and children’s book competition attracted record international entries with more than 1,000 for the open poetry alone. It also spotlighted local writers: local poet Roger Adams won the Hilly Cansdale Local Prize with his poem, Lights
Appearances by Julia Samuel, top, and Pragya Agarwal, centre; and an appreciative audience Pictures: Jo Shepherd
Out. Simon Heathcote’s short story The Price of Feet claimed the Wyvern local prize, and Val Mote’s book Mind Dump took the local prize for children’s fiction. Donations and ticket sales have also allowed the festival to continue to support local children. The residents of Baltonsborough set up a free daily delicious Kids Half Term Lunch Club and the festival provided free books to be offered with the lunches. Two children came especially because of the books. The festival also continues to support children’s authors through virtual visits. Chair of the volunteers, Richard Manning, said: “It has been a more challenging festival than the last 27, but we don’t regret the decision which has been met with huge appreciation by our speakers and audiences of all ages.” The new hybrid 2020 festival may now be over, but the wide impact remains and seeds are even now being sown for a less challenging but even more ambitious festival for 2021.
Progress made in talks about Bishop’s Barn and Rec MENDIP District Council and Wells City Council are progressing with talks to return the Bishop’s Barn and Recreation Ground to the community. At a meeting with Mayor of Wells Councillor Philip Welch, Mendip reconfirmed its offer to give them back to the people of
Wells – and it hopes a speedy transfer can be achieved. Leader of Mendip District Council, Councillor Ros Wyke, said: “We have discussed options and anticipate these much-loved facilities will be successfully handed back soon. “Local people will make this
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terrific historic building and its surroundings work for them. We know this is what Wells wants, and with suitable governance assurances in place, we expect to move forward quickly.” Mendip District Council was handed control of the Wells Recreation Ground and Bishop’s
Barn under a local government reorganisation in 1974. Cllr Welch said: “After more than 45 years, returning control of the Recreation Ground and Bishop’s Barn to Wells is in sight. “It is time they were returned to Wells and I hope the long wait will soon be over.”
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wellsvoice
12
December 2020
n NEWS
Library Order & Collect service
The Swan Hotel hosted three wedding receptions on the same day to help three couples beat the lockdown
Hotel steps in so couples can still celebrate big day in style THREE wedding days that could have been ruined because of the latest lockdown were rescued thanks to the Swan Hotel. With marriages and receptions booked for November 7, 8 and 14, the three couples were in despair following the announcement from Boris Johnson of new lockdown restrictions starting on November 5. But marriage ceremonies were rearranged for November 4 and staff at the Swan Hotel in Sadler Street, Wells, pulled out all the stops to host all three wedding receptions in separate areas of the hotel. Alana and Steve, who were married at Wells Town Hall, said: “We had the best day of our
lives, thank you so, so much for all your hard work and help.” Anne and Tim were also married at the Town Hall after their booking was moved with just two days’ notice. They said: “It was a wonderful day, and we are so happy to be married. “We’re incredibly grateful to everyone at Wells Town Hall and the Swan for helping us beat lockdown and making the day special. “The upside is we get to enjoy getting married twice, as we will have a big summer celebration with all our friends and family when it is safe again.” Frances and Luke were supposed to be getting married at Edington Church in August
with 180 guests attending the reception, which was then rearranged for Saturday, November 7, with 14 guests. Edington Church managed to switch their marriage to November 4 and the Swan arranged their reception in the hotel. The hotel’s manager, Mark Tobin, said: “It was been a sensational day and gave all of the team an uplift just before we locked up the hotel for the second time this year. “It was an honour and a privilege to pull out all the stops and look after all three wonderful couples and their socially distanced families simultaneously in separate parts of the hotel.”
This year’s Wells Charter Fairs had to be called off, but to safeguard the fairs for the future, a special ‘Saving the Charter’ event took place outside Wells Town Hall on November 20, a legally binding act that means they can return and are not deemed gone forever. Pictured at the event are, from left, Richard Green, honorary member of the Showmen’s Guild of Great Britain, Mayor of Wells Councillor Philip Welch, and Wells fair operator Shaun Rogers with his wife Krystal.
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WELLS Library has been running an Order & Collect service. To try it out, visit https://bit.ly/SomLibs2 and click on the ‘Library Choice’ link. Fill out the form to let library staff know what type of books you would like, and they will do the rest. You will receive an email/phone call advising you when your books are ready to collect. Alternatively, those who are unable to visit the library can enrol with the Royal Voluntary Service. The RVS will arrange for a volunteer to visit you to discuss what you like to read and the best times to visit you, usually on a fortnightly or monthly basis. The volunteer will go to the library to choose your books and deliver them to you. If interested, call 0300 123 2224 or email wlslib@somerset.gov.uk
Jody Wells with his wife Lucy
New head for junior school A NEW head of Wells Cathedral School Junior School has been appointed. Jody Wells will take over on September 1, 2021, from Julie Barrow, who will retire at the end of the summer term 2021 after more than 30 years of service to the school. Mr Wells is currently headmaster of Forres Sandle Manor Prep School in Hampshire. He began his teaching career at Wells Cathedral School as houseparent and class teacher, then took up positions as head of boys’ games and later head of boarding at All Hallows School before joining Forres Sandle Manor in 2011 as deputy head and then headmaster from September 2018. He is also an ISI (Independent Schools Inspectorate) inspector.
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wellsvoice n CHRISTMAS MESSAGE FROM THE BISHOP
13
December 2020
Thoughts especially with lonely this year A Christmas message from Bishop Peter, who will himself be spending Christmas in hospital this year as he undergoes treatment for acute myeloid leukaemia THIS Christmas will be a strange one for most of us and challenging for many people, particularly those who need to shield and those for whom winter is always an anxious time. I am writing this in November on the day before I go into hospital for several weeks, and am conscious that when it is published, I shall still be receiving treatment. Once again I am grateful for the amazing care and support I have received from the NHS in recent weeks and months. The dedication and kindness of all the staff I have met during this time has been exceptional and humbling. So, my prayers and thoughts
know his love, his forgiveness and his peace. With the challenges the world faces due to coronavirus this is a message we all need to hear. I am sure some of the services I shall listen to will include Once in Royal David’s City with the wonderful words:
this Christmas will be especially with those who are lonely, separated from family and friends and those whose work takes them away from home at this time. Although I won’t be able to go to any services this year I shall, however, listen to some of the services which will be broadcast
or available on the internet. And as I listen to the familiar readings and join in with the carols, I know that my spirits will be lifted, and my heart will be joyful. For Christmas reminds us that God truly loves the world that he has made and that he came as a baby, vulnerable and helpless, in order that we might
He came down to earth from heaven, who is God and Lord of all, And his shelter was a stable, and his cradle was a stall; With the poor and mean and lowly lived on earth our Saviour holy. May the joy and peace of the Lord be with you – wherever you are this Christmas – and may he watch over you and walk with you in the year to come. With my warm greetings and very best wishes, Rt Revd Peter Hancock Bishop of Bath and Wells
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19/11/2020 17:38:04 Email: news@wellsvoice.co.uk
wellsvoice
14
December 2020
n NEWS
Event to stress value of St Andrews Ward AN awareness-raising event will be held in Wells in December to highlight the potentially damaging consequences of closing St Andrews Ward. Somerset Clinical Commissioning Group has decided that the 14 beds at the mental health unit at Priory Park should be moved to Yeovil. More than 1,300 people have signed a petition to protest against the move, which campaigners say could exacerbate mental health problems – and even lead to lives being lost. The event on Cathedral Green on December 12 will emphasise the important role that St Andrews Ward plays in the framework of mental health services. Organiser Emma King says that the event will also draw attention to the fact that more people could harm or possibly
A protest in Wells against the closure of St Andrews Ward kill themselves if the ward is closed. “It’s a real worry. Any one of us could be that vulnerable person, any one of us could fall
Picture: Ella Reeves
through the cracks. We could need this help. It could lead to a lot more long-term problems,” she said. “We won’t have any mental
health beds in Mendip. We need things locally. I haven’t yet heard a good argument for closing the ward.” During the event on Saturday, December 12, starting at 3pm, the impact of suicide will be highlighted, and a shrine will be created with flowers and candles to show respect to the memories of some of those who have died. Participants are also going to be singing Amazing Grace, having a minute’s silence, and some people will take the knee. Advice leaflets and helpline numbers will be available. The petition to save St Andrews Ward from closure can be found at https://www. change.org/p/somerset-clinicalcommissioning-group-savest-andrew-s-ward-wells-fromclosure n To contact the Samaritans, call 116 123.
‘Commitment made to expand mental health services’ THE new model for adult mental health services in Somerset is focused on supporting people as close to home as possible, says Somerset Clinical Commissioning Group’s chief executive, James Rimmer. He said: “We know that in Wells and the surrounding area there were strong feelings about the proposal to relocate the 14 adult mental health in-patient beds from Wells to Yeovil and some people are disappointed by the decision taken by the Governing Body. We are aware of the
petition and the demonstration planned for December. “As agreed at the Governing Body meeting, and as a result of the feedback received during the public consultation, a service user and carer reference group will be established to support the implementation of the proposal, and particularly to review how the potential negative impacts of increased travel time can be mitigated for carers, family members and friends. “We are very aware that the current Covid-19 pandemic has
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affected everyone’s mental and physical wellbeing both here in Somerset and across the country. The pandemic accelerated many of the positive transformational plans we had in place having been awarded £13 million funding last year to improve community mental health services for adults in Somerset. “I would like to assure everyone in Somerset that our new model for adult mental health services is very much focused on supporting people as close to home as possible, in their communities through a range of local services. For example, we now have more mental health workers based in GP practices, people can access mental health support and services via digital technology and there is a new community-based talking therapies service for people with complex mental health trauma. “Our acute in-patient beds are a small but important part of our new model of adult mental health care. They are a countywide resource of four wards which are currently located in Taunton (two wards), Wells (one ward) and Yeovil (one ward). “The decision was taken by the Governing Body to help us
provide safer and better quality care to people who need this level of mental health support across the whole of Somerset. The decision was based on the safety of standalone wards, the distance of the Wells ward from an emergency department and the lack of 24/7 medical cover. While the location of 14 mental health beds will be changing, it is important to note that the change will not result in any reduction in bed numbers across the county. “I can confirm that there are there are no plans to relocate other services delivered from the Bridge Centre at the Priory site in Wells. A commitment was made as part of the proposal approved by the Governing Body to expand community mental health services in the Wells and Mendip area, which includes the following: 35 additional community-based staff located in the area; establishing three community front room locations; piloting the use of 4 step up/step down beds in Wells to provide a bridge between in-patient units and local services; an all age 24/7 mental health line providing wellbeing support (dial 01823 276 892).”
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wellsvoice
December 2020
15
n NEWS
Stoberry House & Garden Stoberry Park, Wells, Somerset BA5 3LD www.stoberryhouse.co.uk Order a delicious cream tea to take away – drive up and collect the cream tea – or we can deliver in the Wells area PERFECT CHRISTMAS GIFT + VOUCHERS AVAILABLE FOR TEAS OR GARDEN VISITS Or enjoy your Afternoon Tea in our Orangery overlooking the beautiful garden and the Cathedral
Stoberry Garden Christmas Cream Tea Menus
Nicki Chapman at Stoberry House with the owners, Frances and Tim Meeres Young
TV presenter takes time out for tea A TV star called in for tea at a Wells B&B just before lockdown. Nicki Chapman, who presents Escape to the Country, was filming in Somerset and took the opportunity to have tea at Stoberry House at Stoberry Park while she was in the area. Owners Frances and Tim Meeres Young gave her a tour of their six-acre garden, and she was able to see the spectacular views over Wells. “Stoberry House has had its fair share of celebrities staying and enjoying the garden over the years,” said Frances. “We are great believers that everyone needs their privacy, so we very rarely reveal names, but this time Nicki was happy for us to do so.” Stoberry House has just launched its Christmas luxury tea menus, which will be available in December and January. These can be collected to eat at home, while deliveries are also possible in the Wells area. Each tea ordered comes with a voucher entitling the bearer to
a free visit to the garden until the end of April. “We are hoping that people will join us in December and January with our new Christmas luxury teas, either at Stoberry – when we can – or at home,” said Frances, who added that despite the difficulties this year has presented, Stoberry House has continued to pick up awards and accolades. “It’s been such an honour to host so many guests this year and I think we are all looking forward to the ‘new normal’ fading away,” she said. “It’s been a great year for Stoberry and we are thrilled to have added a few more awards, including the Good Hotel Guide 20/21 ‘Editor’s choice – garden’, and European Enterprise awards 2020 ‘Best Luxury Bed & Breakfast 2020 – Somerset’, while Hotels Combined rated Stoberry House 10 out of 10 for ‘recognition of Excellence’. “All these have put a smile on the faces of the great team at Stoberry House.”
Playgroup goes virtual with raffle THIS year, Stepping Stones Playgroup has gone virtual with its charity Christmas fundraising raffle. People can support their local playgroup, which is based at Stoberry Park School, Wells, and be in with a chance of
winning a hamper of food, drink and gifts worth more than £250. Visit the playgroup’s Facebook Page – Stepping Stones Playgroup Wells Raffle – to find out more and purchase tickets.
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(Minimum of two people for all Menus) Served with a pot of tea or coffee ~ £15.50 per person A generous slice of cake Plain or Fruit scone presented with clotted cream and strawberry jam A small slate of Christmas Fancies ~ £25 per person Petite Christmas cake slice Cranberry and Orange mince pie or Spiced orange and cranberry shortbread A slice of cake of the day Plain or Fruit scone presented with clotted cream and strawberry jam Sandwiches: (Vegetarian option available) Turkey, caramelised onion and cranberry Smoked salmon trout Egg and cress Ham with English mustard Somerset Brie and Grape Smoked Duck and Pate ~ Luxury Cream Tea £37.50 per person Petite Christmas cake slice Cranberry and Orange mince pie Spiced orange and cranberry shortbread Chocolate slice Plain or Fruit scone presented with clotted cream and strawberry jam Sandwiches: (Vegetarian option available) Turkey, caramelised onion and cranberry Smoked salmon trout Egg and cress Ham with English mustard Somerset Brie and Grape Smoked Duck and Pate A selection of petite patisseries including: Passion fruit and meringue tart Caramel delight Rich Chocolate Cooked Cheesecake with Cinnamon crumble Cappuccino pie Afternoon Tea made without Gluten available Add a glass of bubbly to any menu – £7 a glass We may need to exchange some items due to availability ~ All teas and take aways must be pre-booked by appointment To book contact Stoberry House by phone 01749 672906, or email: stay@stoberry-park.co.uk Every Christmas tea ordered from the above menu will receive a voucher per person valid until the end of May 2021 to visit Stoberry garden.
16 WELLS VETS CASE FILES
wellsvoice n NEWS
December 2020
Operation stopped Tilly’s head inflating Name: Tilly Age: 6 years Breed: West Highland White Terrier Likes: Seeing what’s behind that fence Dislikes: Extreme haircuts TILLY was extremely unfortunate recently when her inquisitive nature led to an emergency vet visit. One minute, enjoying a potter around her garden, she decided to have a peek under the fence. The next she had been unexpectedly bitten and was being rushed to the vets with a very sore head. All was obviously not well when she arrived as her right eye was firmly closed and she was bleeding profusely. Tilly was quickly admitted and treated with intravenous fluids, pain relief and antibiotics before being sedated for a better examination.
Under sedation everything became clearer. A large piece of bone had fractured from her skull and was displaced into her eye socket, and every time she breathed the skin on her head would inflate! This suggested that she had sustained a frontal sinus skull fracture. Tilly was incredibly brave and, after her pain relief, seemed to cope admirably with her eye being forced closed. However, this was not a long term solution and after discussion with her owner we elected to operate the next day. Our intention was to repair the fracture if possible, but on further exploration this was not to be. The fractured piece of bone was very fragmented and so in the end our only option was to remove all the shards, flush the site and close the wound. Tilly’s eye healed incredibly well and she showed great courage in her recovery, being back to her normal self in no time. Unfortunately for Tilly, however, she will have to live with her new crew cut for a few A large piece of fractured bone needed to be months while her usual removed from Tilly’s eye socket silky tresses grow back!
Wells Vets, 3 Cathedral Avenue, Wells, Somerset, BA5 1FD
Tel: 01749 678420
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With coffee and cupcakes in hand: Bridget Harvey, Kate Ford and Fen Bagias
Launch of drop-in initiative at cafe By Philip Welch CUPCAKE and Company launched successfully with a smile in November. But then this free event was forced into an unwanted break by the latest lockdown. Cupcake and Company provides a safe environment for support and companionship. The venue is Daniel’s Cafe in Queen Street, Wells, whose Kate Ford said: “It’s for anybody who feels lonely or is struggling with any aspect of daily life or just needs a friendly ear to listen. “Cupcake and Company will be every other Monday from 10am to noon, but now we will have to wait to look at what’s possible after the lockdown. Perhaps we could look at a larger venue.” Everyone gets a free cupcake and a hot drink said Bridget Harvey, manager of the Heads Up charity who is hosting these drop-in cafe events.
Also there at the launch was Fen Bagias from Health Connections Mendip who welcomed this initiative, as her organisation had seen an increase in mental health problems since March’s lockdown and witnessed people with existing conditions getting worse. “For example someone suffering from anxiety will miss the loss of face to face contacts,” said Fen, who has been working on Cupcake and Company with Heads Up, the mental health charity based at South Horrington. n A Lottery grant will allow Heads Up to give a break to carers who are looking after loved ones at home 24/7 and whose stress levels grow during lockdown. They have arranged for 32 of the carers to visit Middlewick Spa in Glastonbury, split between three different days in December.
Plans submitted for up to 68 homes PLANS have been submitted to Mendip District Council for dozens of new homes at New House Farm, Haybridge, between Elm Close and Wells Touring Park. Outline planning permission is being sought for the demolition of the existing farmhouse and agricultural buildings and the development
of up to 68 houses. A planning statement on behalf of Gleeson Strategic Land says it is an opportunity to contribute to the housing shortfall in Mendip in a sustainable location. At a pre-application meeting reported in September’s Wells Voice, St Cuthbert Out parish councillors voiced a number of concerns.
Email: sales@wellsvoice.co.uk
wellsvoice
December 2020
17
n NEWS
Company to rescue with freezer donation
WHEN chairman of the Wells without it costing them a penny Vineyard Church Trustees extra. and manager of the Furniture All they need to do is visit Storehouse, Keith Rudyard, was https://www.easyfundraising. informed that the Foodbank’s org.uk/causes/wellsstorehouse/ sole freezer was failing, he and then find their favourite contacted Joe Eavis, managing retailers through this site. The director of Living Homes in retailers will donate money as Street, to ask if he could sell the they shop. church a freezer at a reduced Amazon shoppers can also price. raise money in the same way by A short while after that call visiting https://smile.amazon. Joe informed Keith that Living co.uk and searching for Wells Homes, along with Whirlpool Vineyard Christian Fellowship. (Hotpoint), were going to donate In another scheme, Wells a new freezer. A couple of days Foodbank and The Works are later, staff from Living Homes teaming up to provide children made the delivery to the church with gift boxes this Christmas. in Jocelyn Drive. Onlookers People who would like to help Volunteers are among those welcoming the arrival of the new freezer at included a number of volunteers, while shops are closed can give a Wells Vineyard Storehouse and Foodbank Foodbank manager, Pastor Sue small donation to the Foodbank people in Wells and surrounding For further information, Marland, Keith Rudyard and a (A/C 31387170, sort code towns and villages, free of contact Keith on 07818 782026. great supporter of both of Wells 40-46-06) using the reference charge, at the request of 21 n WELLS Foodbank is also Vinyard outreach projects, the ‘Christmas Shoebox’. agencies. Our church neighbours, enlisting the help of Christmas Mayor of Wells, Councillor Philip All donations received before Vehicle Life Support, have shoppers to support people in Welch. December 5 will be used to buy frequently helped us to keep the need. Anyone who is shopping Joe has also offered to assist books and toys for children who van on the road. online can help raise money Keith by directing people who would otherwise have very little. “However, the van needs to have household goods to donate be replaced and I am launching to contact The Storehouse on an appeal for £15,000. Should 07818 782026. anyone feel able to support The Foodbank has handed our two outreach projects then out more than 25,000 meals donations can be sent to Wells since April, and the Furniture Vineyard Church, Unit 2, Keward Storehouse has been particularly Mill Trading Estate, Jocelyn busy in 2020. Drive Wells, BA5 1DA (Gift Aid Keith said: “Many readers accepted). of Wells Voice will have seen “Alternatively, transfers the recent BBC programme of No need for an expensive care home can be made to Wells Vineyard Simon Reeve when he visited the Christian Fellowship, bank Cambourne Foodbank. Within Stay independent at home with your own live in carer account details are: A/C five days, £120,000 was donated. 31387170, sort code 40-46-06, No need for an expensive care home “We have a three and a half Many people want to stay in their own home as they get older referenced for either Storehouse ton van which we use to deliver No need for an expensive care home Stay independent at home with own live in carer or Foodbank.” donated furniture to needy No need for an expensive careyour home No need for a Stay independent at homeMany with your own live in carer people want to stay in their own home as they get older Stay independent at home with your own liveaninproviding carer Featherbed Care has been live in carers since 198 No need for expensive care home No need for home Many people want to stay in their own home as they get olderNo an expensive expensivecare care home Stay independent at h Noneed need for for an an expensive care home Many people want to stay in their own home as they get older We believebeen in independent only the at very care affordable cos Stay independent at homebest with your your ownat livean in carer carer Stay with own live in Featherbed providing live in carers since 1986 Stay independent at home home with your own in carer Stay independent home with your own livelive inpeople carer TO celebrate 15 years of trading, nobody wants to decide to make Care has Many want to stay Featherbed Care has been providing live in carers since 1986 Many people want to stay in their own home as they get older We believe in only the very best care at an affordable cost Many people want to stay in their own home as they get older Wells business TelePA decided a donation to then be greeted by Many people want tocarers stay in their as as they get get olderolder Many people want to stay insince theirown ownhome home they Featherbed Care has been providing live in 1986 We believe in only the very best care at an affordable cost to mark the occasion by offering an answerphone.” We development believe in only the very best care at has an affordable cost to support telephone calls for Laura Blake, Featherbed Care been providing providing live in in carers since since 1986 Featherbed Care has bee has been been live carers Featherbed Care Featherbed Care has providing live in an carers since 1986 1986 local charities, free of charge, for director at SCF, said: “With We believe believe in only only the very best care care at affordable cost Featherbed Care has been providing live in carers since We in the very best at an affordable cost We believe in 1986 only the v We believe in only the very best care at an affordable cost a period of two years. Somerset TelePA’s support, we can answer We believe in only the very best care at an affordable cost Community Foundation (SCF) every single call from our donors is taking advantage of this and ensure we raise as much generous offer for a second year, as we can to help older people and TelePA are managing the experiencing fuel poverty across extra phone calls they receive Somerset.” during their Surviving Winter To donate to Surviving Call for a brochure today Call for a brochure today appeal 2020/21. Winter, visit: www.somersetcf. 0117 9860710 / Freephone: 0800 111 4885 0800 111 4885 Judith Ludovino from org.uk/winter or call 01749 0117 9860710 / Freephone: Call for a brochureCall todayfor a brochure today Email: featherbed@featherbedhomecare.co.uk Email: featherbed@featherbedhomecare.co.uk TelePA said: “By using TelePA’s 344949. For information on how Call for brochure today today Call for aa brochure today Call a 0117 9860710 / for Freephone: 0800 111 4885 0117 9860710 / Freephone: 0800 111 4885 www.featherbedhomecare.co.uk Call for a brochure brochure 0800 today services, smaller charities to apply for a Surviving Winter 0117 9860710 9860710 Freephone: 111 4885 4885 www.featherbedhomecare.co.uk 0117 9860710 // Freephone: Freephone: 0800 111 111 4885 0117 / 0800 0117 9860710 / Freephone: 0800 111 4885 Email: featherbed@featherbedhomecare.co.uk Email: featherbed@featherbedhomecare.co.uk such as Somerset Community grant, contact Community Email: featherbed@featherbedhomecare.co.uk featherbed@featherbedhomecare.co.uk Email: Email: Call for a brochure today Call for Email: featherbed@featherbedhomecare.co.uk www.featherbedhomecare.co.uk Foundation can always be Council for Somerset on 01823 www.featherbedhomecare.co.uk www.featherbedhomecare.co.uk www.featherbedhomecare.co.uk 0117 9860710 / Freephone: 0800 111 4885 www.featherbedhomecare.co.uk 0117 9860710 / F responsive to their donors – 331222. Email: featherbed@featherbedhomecare.co.uk Email: featherbed@
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wellsvoice
18
December 2020
n NEWS
Talk to doctor if something feels wrong
Early diagnosis of cancer can make a real difference, so if something doesn’t feel quite right, get it checked out, say Wells City Practice and Wells Health Centre AT Wells City Practice and Wells Health Centre we know that the way we see patients has been different over the past few months since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic. Sadly, due to the pandemic, we know that throughout the country there will have been many missed or delayed cancer diagnoses, and we are doing our best to try to change this. The teams at both practices would like to let our patients know that we are open and operating in a safe way during the pandemic. You should contact us if you notice a change that isn’t normal for you or if you have a symptom you are worried about. If you need to get in touch, we are ready to help you safely. You will be able to talk through your concerns on the phone, via e-consultation or video consultation initially, and if you need to be seen in person this will be in a non-Covid area within the practice. The GP you see, or specialist doctor in some cases, will follow strict guidance on infection control to protect themselves and patients. If needed, we can arrange any
These are some of the key signs and symptoms of cancer. But if something’s unusual for you, it’s best to tell your doctor – even if it’s not on this list. Croaky voice, hoarsness or a cough that won’t go away l Mouth or tongue ulcer that lasts longer than three weeks l Coughing up blood l
l
l l l
Unusual changes to the size, shape or feel of a breast, including nipple or skin changes
A change in bowel habit, such as constipation, looser poo or pooing more often l Blood in your poo l Unexplained vaginal bleeding, including after sex, between periods or after the menopause l Blood in your pee l Problems peeing l
tests or referrals you may need in the safest way possible. Finding and treating cancer at an early stage can save lives Cancer that’s diagnosed at an early stage, when it isn’t too large and hasn’t spread, is more likely to be treated successfully. If cancer spreads, effective treatment becomes more difficult, and generally a person’s chances of surviving are much lower. Please see above for a key message on what to look out for. There are over 200 different types of cancer that can cause
l l
Breathlessness Difficulty swallowing Persistent heartburn or indigestion Appetite loss Persistent bloating
Very heavy night sweats Appetite loss l Fatigue l Unexplained weight loss l An explained pain or ache l An unusual lump or swelling anywhere on your body l A new mole or changes to a mole l A sore that won’t heal l l
many different symptoms. Sometimes symptoms are linked to certain cancer types. But signs can also be more general, including weight loss, tiredness (fatigue) or unexplained pain. You don’t need to try and remember all the signs and symptoms of cancer, but we have listed some key ones to give you an idea of the kind of things to be aware of. These symptoms are more often a sign of something far less serious – but if it is cancer, spotting it early can make a real difference.
Remember, anyone can develop cancer, but it’s more common as we get older. Most cases are in people aged 50 or over. Whatever your age, it’s always best to listen to your body and talk to your doctor if something doesn’t feel quite right. Whether it’s a change that’s new, unusual, or something that won’t go away – get it checked out. Some possible signs of cancer – like a lump – are better known than others. But just because some symptoms are more well known doesn’t mean they’re more important, or more likely to be cancer. If you spot anything that isn’t normal for you, don’t ignore it. Whether it’s on this list or not, get it checked out. Another important message is that you should attend for any screening appointment when invited, which looks for breast cancer, bowel cancer and cervical cancer, as this is another vital way to pick up any early changes. The information above was taken from the Cancer Research UK website which has a lot of really useful information – https://www.cancerresearchuk. org/about-cancer. The NHS UK website is also very informative – https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/ cancer/symptoms. Many thanks and please get in touch with us at Wells City Practice or Wells Health Centre if you have any concerns at all.
How to contact practice and what to expect there Update from Wells Health Centre DURING a second period of lockdown and over the winter months, the GPs, nurses and staff at Wells Health Centre are continuing to work hard in order to keep you safe while making sure that you access the care that you need. We are doing things a bit differently and want you to be prepared so that you get the best service from us. There is a great reliance on technology, emails and text messaging, so please ensure that we have your most up to date contact details. We are encouraging our patients to use our online consultation platform Engage
Consult. If you are not sure what this is or where to find it, then please visit our website www. wellshealthcentre.co.uk and all of the information is on there. This saves you having to call the practice and you can start your consultation any time that suits you. We will usually respond to your request within 48 hours. If you would rather call the practice then here’s what to expect: l You will need to be prepared to tell our healthcare team about your symptoms or your concerns l There are a few ways that we will respond to your request depending on what it is: m You will receive a call back to explain what to do next.
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m This could be advice over the phone, a video call or we’ll ask you to come into the surgery. l If you are asked to come into the surgery, we will explain over the phone what precautions we are making to keep you safe. You may be given instructions eg. to stay in your car until you are called into the practice l You may need to wait a little longer than usual because our clinicians will need to change their protective clothing and clean the consultation room in between visitors. l Our staff will look different as they will be wearing protective clothing eg. mask, visor, scrubs, aprons and gloves. l Our staff are continuing to
work in the surgery, but our surgery doors will be closed to limit the number of patients that come in to the surgery. This means we can meet government social distancing rules and help keep you and our healthcare team safe. l You will be asked to wear a face covering before coming into the building. l We are receiving a very high volume of calls and enquiries and we ask that you are even more patient with us while we make sure that everyone is kept safe. l If you need urgent healthcare advice or treatment, please don’t delay. Call or visit NHS 111 online, or in an emergency call 999.
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For a limited time only, save up to £23,250* in addition to the Government’s Stamp Duty Holiday as Acorn pay any remaining Stamp Duty when you reserve selected homes above £500,000. 4 Bedroom detached houses from £555,000 Show Home open daily from 10am to 5pm Cuckoo Hill, Bruton, Somerset BA10 0FA
For further information: acornpropertygroup.org cubissales@acornpg.org or call 0174 959 8088
Prices correct at time of publication. Image shown for illustrative purposes only. *Stamp Duty Terms & Conditions: If you complete on a residential property between 8 July 2020 to 31 March 2021 as your main residence, you only start to pay SDLT on the amount that you pay for the property above £500,000. Acorn will pay the remaining amount on selected homes. Not in conjunction with any other offer. Speak to Sales Advisor for details. Saving of £23,250 is based on a purchase price of £665,000 when the property will be used as your primary residence. YOUR HOME MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON YOUR MORTGAGE OR OTHER DEBT SECURED ON IT. Credit is secured against your home. Subject to status, Help to Buy Terms & Conditions and available on selected properties up to £600,000 in England only. Eligible applicants will be offered an equity loan up to a maximum of 20% of the purchase price based on the open market value). Applicants are required to fund at least 80% of the purchase price by means of a conventional mortgage, savings/deposit where required. The equity loan is provided by the HCA and held as a second charge. This offer is not available in conjunction with any other promotion. Full details will be provided on request.
wellsvoice
20
December 2020
n REMEMBRANCE
A two-minutes’ silence was observed at Wells Market Place during a short Remembrance ceremony on Armistice Day, November 11
Good support in strange year Wells Poppy Appeal organiser Derek Cooper reports on this year’s appeal and Remembrance events IN this strange year it was always the intention of the committee of the Wells branch of the Royal British Legion to ensure the safety of our members, volunteers and the public. This I think we achieved but still managed, despite all the restrictions, to so far raise £6,000. It’s a far cry from last year’s £27,000 but considering all we were up against we are pleased with this and thank everyone for their support. Currently the national figure is about £6 million compared to £40 million last year and Somerset about £68,000 compared to £1 million last year.
We are grateful to the number of businesses – limited by head office this year – that had tins in Wells, Wookey and Priddy. Thanks also to the mayor and Town Hall staff for taking in our delivery of poppies etc and for a place to work in. Tesco had poppies supplied direct by the Legion and allowed us to hold a stall there on a few afternoons, and we thank Tesco for that and Melanie Goody for running it. We are also grateful to Graham the market manager for allowing us two Saturdays (it would have been three without lockdown) to hold a stall there where some of our slightly younger members who were in family bubbles were allowed to operate it. Early on Sunday, November 8, we laid all the organisations’
wreaths at St Cuthbert’s with just the mayor in attendance laying the wreath on behalf of the city and council. At 11am a few of the Legion members and public observed the twominutes’ silence. At the same time a few committee members did the same at the Harry Patch memorial and at the plaque at the cemetery. Likewise on Wednesday, November 11, at 11am in the Market Place a group gathered and in complete silence a short Act of Remembrance was held led by the Rev Clare Cowlin. Our hope is that next year life might have returned to some sort of normality as it is the 100th year of the Royal British Legion and also of the Wells branch, which was one of the first to be launched 100 years ago.
Wells Royal British Legion chairman Aaron Cooper Collett, left, with the Standard lowered during the silence at the war memorial at St Cuthbert’s Church on Remembrance Sunday
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Harry Chantrey on Armistice Day
Performances by trumpeters DESPITE many of this year’s local Remembrance services being cancelled due to Covid-19, trumpeters from Wells Cathedral School still managed to perform The Last Post and Reveille for local communities at services on Remembrance Sunday and on Armistice Day. Among those to perform on Remembrance Sunday were George Wareham, in Year 9, who played at Binegar Church; Erin Davies, in Year 11, who played at Wells Cathedral; and Hector Gummer in the Upper Sixth who played at North Wootton Church. On Armistice Day, Cole Craggs in Year 6 played for the Junior School; Charlie Spencer, in the Lower Sixth, played at the school’s morning Remembrance service; Luke Lane, also in the Lower Sixth, played at 11am on Cedars Lawn; and Harry Chantrey, in the Upper Sixth, played for pupils and teachers at Wookey Primary School.
Email: sales@wellsvoice.co.uk
December 2020
wellsvoice
21
n REMEMBRANCE
Oliver’s story shared in special online exhibition JUST two weeks before the Second World War ended in the Far East, young serviceman Oliver White was killed. He was only 21 years old. His tragic story appears with 38 others in an online exhibition which has been created specially to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the end of the Second World War. It remembers the sons and daughters of Wells who died during that war and who are named on the Wells War Memorial. “Sharing these stories means so much to the families of those who died, and to us all,” said David Walker, curator of Wells & Mendip Museum. The exhibition can be found at wellsmuseum.org.uk/wellswar-memorial-project. The museum and Wells City Archives have jointly produced the exhibition, along with invaluable contributions from members of the community. Dr Julia Wood, Wells city archivist, said: “We’ve had a wonderful response from
Oliver White. Photograph courtesy of Betty Holland, Oliver’s sister © Mrs Betty Holland
relatives and friends of the Wells servicemen and women who died, and offer our thanks to all those who have contributed to the project.”
2,000 poppies replanted at Palace
Hundreds of paper poppy petals were released from the Nave ceiling in Wells Cathedral at 11am on Remembrance Sunday. The West doors had been opened so that people inside and outside the Cathedral could observe the spectacle and reflect during the two-minutes’ silence.
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THE Somerset Poppies returned to The Bishop’s Palace again this year in time for Remembrance weekend. Two thousand of them were planted in The Quiet Garden by Siobhan Goodwin, community engagement manager; Dan Vidler, who conceived the idea for the 2018 centenary of the end of the First World War; and three volunteers from the Palace, including one doing a Duke of Edinburgh Award volunteering placement. After the original Somerset poppies project finished in 2018 it was agreed that the Palace should retain 2,000 poppies in order to continue to display them inside the grounds. Made by local school children, there were originally 7,986 poppies in 2018 – one to mark each life lost of servicemen from the county of Somerset during the First World War – but some were sold in 2018 to raise money for SSAFA and the Wells Branch of the Royal British Legion.
Somerset Poppies in The Quiet Garden at The Bishop’s Palace
Email: news@wellsvoice.co.uk
wellsvoice
22
December 2020
n NEWS
Launch of new Somerset sparkling wine
ENGLISH sparkling wine has been one of the great success stories of the last decade, winning awards all over the world, and 2020 sees the launch of a new Somerset sparkling wine from a vineyard near Wells with a unique history. The story of Mowbarton Estate began in September 2012 when Peter and Dorothy Wright were woken at 6am by their son: “Wake up! The house is flooding!” By torchlight (the electricity had gone) they saw that water was indeed gushing down the hill and straight under the front door. Ditches in the lane above were subsequently dug, with runoffs into their sheep field, which revealed a clay and limestone soil – perfect for vines. The field itself is in Mudgley, on the south-facing slope of the Isle of Wedmore with views across the Vale of Avalon, much of which was once owned by the Dean of Wells who in 1221 also
The estate’s vines are a mix of Chardonnay, Pinot Blanc and Pinot Meunier acquired “all the land, meadow, alder grove and moor lying within… the park of Mudgley”. As a Fleet Street editor Peter knew very little about wine, except how to drink it, so had to find a man who did. Luckily a neighbour’s father is none other than Wells resident Colin Gillespie, whose vineyard at
North Wootton was one of the first. He gave the project the thumbs up as well as a great deal of advice and contacts. In 2014 planting began at Mudgley: 1,250 vines – a mix of Chardonnay, Pinot Blanc and Pinot Meunier (three of the seven permitted Champagne varieties), under the guidance
of John Buchan, one of the country’s leading viticulturists. The monks of Glastonbury grew grapes on these slopes 800 years ago and there is also evidence of vineyards from Roman times. Mowbarton Estate revived that tradition with the launch of its first full vintage in 2020. Mowbarton is produced exclusively as a sparkling wine, made in Bagborough by Steve Brooksbank, a highly experienced local wine-maker. It is made using the traditional method which includes a 16-month wait while the bottles mature on the lees. Long hours of summer sunlight, freedom from frost, and gentle breezes from the Bristol Channel make Mowbarton Estate a classic cool-climate wine. It has a soft and fruity finish and has been described as tasting rather as a certain world-famous sparkling wine used to before global warming started making their grapes ripen too fast.
Somerset Sparkling Wine …………………………………... Produced from grapes grown on the south-facing slopes of the Isle of Wedmore.
Order online or by phone mowbartonestate.co.uk 07919100455 Free delivery in and around Wells To advertise, contact Andy on 01749 675157
Email: sales@wellsvoice.co.uk
wellsvoice
December 2020
23
n NEWS
Stance on charity law questioned THE first chair of the Charity Commission has questioned whether the Church of England has misinterpreted charity law in its approach to the sale of the Old Deanery. Geraldine Peacock is a founder member of the community interest company which would like to buy the 15th century building. The Old Deanery Project organisation, comprising local residents backed by councils and heritage groups, has made an offer for it of £1.25 million. The organisation’s plan is to create an art gallery or museum of international standing, restaurant, cafe and shop, and serve as an important social hub, with initial funding through residential development by a partner, and returning a profit after three years. But it says that the Bath and Wells Diocese is refusing to engage with the community project, and has instead entered into negotiations with a private developer who has outbid their increased offer. The Government is now being urged to examine what the organisation says is the Church of England’s practice of selling properties for maximum profit while riding roughshod over community interests. Mrs Peacock said: “Diocesan Councils use this interpretation as the reason for maximising their property assets in this way. It is not true that this means sell to the highest financial bidder. “I was chair when the Act went through Parliament and subsequently the Charity Commission published a lot
of guidance to tell people that to maximise your assets was a process that judges social value and financial return. “We want Parliament to investigate, with the CofE, its property disposal issues because they are exempt from legislation pertaining to local authorities.” She said that there are similar issues to the Old Deanery situation in the Leeds Diocese, and that these examples highlight the need for change. A spokesperson for the Diocese of Bath and Wells said: “Redundant church property, such as churches, are covered by church law. Church administrative buildings are usually covered by secular charity law. We are looking forward to the recommendations of the Commission on Housing, Church and Community due in early 2021 because church law around the sale of church property is complex. The sale of administrative buildings is usually regulated by the Charity Act 2011 and helpful operating guidance is issued by the Charity Commission, but any further clarification of this guidance would be very welcome. “The Trustees are aware that wider considerations can be taken into account when disposing of charitable property, including issues of community benefit, and these are already in consideration in relation to the sale of the Old Deanery, whilst ensuring that the Trustees meet their duty to ensure the sale serves both the mission and ministry of the Church, and the people of Somerset.”
Heidi Ashton gets a thumbs up from Greg James
Heidi wins national writing contest A STORY by 11-year-old Heidi Ashton was chosen from thousands of entries as the overall winner in the national Explore Learning Writers’ Awards 2020. Radio DJ, presenter and children’s author, Greg James, was the official judge of the competition, open to children aged 4-14 and comprising three categories, one for each Key
Stage 1, 2 and 3. Heidi, who lives in Wells and is in Year 6 at Wells Cathedral School, was crowned winner of Key Stage 2 and the overall winner of the competition. As overall winner she has won a 13in MacBook Pro, an iPad, Smart Keyboard and Apple Pencil, £1,000 in experience vouchers, and £500 worth of books for her school.
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Walk and cycle cash welcomed WELLS MP James Heappey has welcomed the news that Somerset County Council will receive more than half a million pounds of funding to work on schemes to increase cycling and walking across the county. Transport Secretary Grant Shapps has announced across two tranches of funding that Somerset has been allocated £577,900, with the newly
announced second portion worth £457,900. Mr Heappey said: “I am pleased to see Somerset County Council receive a significant amount of funding following its bid to Government. “I look forward to working with the council on its plans going forward to ensure the schemes are supported by the community.”
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wellsvoice
24
December 2020
n NEWS
Residents praised for recycling effort RESIDENTS in and around Wells are being congratulated for the success of Recycle More. Expanded weekly collections across Mendip look set to recycle up to 150 extra tonnes of plastics and metals over the first month, leaving far less in rubbish bins. Most residents around Wells use their Bright Blue Bag each week to recycle rigid household and food plastic pots, tubs, trays and bottles, plus cans, aluminium foil and aerosols. The green box now takes beverage cartons and Tetra Paks alongside glass bottles and jars, the black box has paper and card, while household batteries and small electrical items go in a carrier bag. All the extra weekly recycling means less refuse, so rubbish bins and sacks are now being collected every three weeks.
A Somerset Waste Partnership spokesman said that Wells residents were not only recycling far more but ensuring “clean streams of recycling” as the raw materials for new products and packaging. That has involved following the guidance that some plastics cannot be recycled in any container: plastic bags, wrappers or plastic film coverings from trays or punnets; crisp packets or pet food pouches; plastic toys or plastic plant pots; expanded polystyrene; and “compostable” cups or food containers. Recycle More days can be checked online 24/7 with the My Collection Day button at somersetwaste.gov.uk. Any missed collection after 7pm on the due day can be reported via My Waste Services at somersetwaste.gov.uk.
Will Writing & Estate Planning A Will lets you protect your family’s inheritance and decide how your assets are shared out – if you don’t make a Will, the law says who gets what.
On October 31, Halloween, Wells Extinction Rebellion presented a Halloween-themed demonstration illustrating the waste created by single-use items. Group members set off from Wells Town Hall, sharing ideas to reduce disposable waste such as plastic coffee cups. They point out that disposables have already been banned in France, and there is an online petition asking for such a ban in the UK.
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Making Secure Plans for Uncertain Futures
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Online exercise classes opened up AS part of its ongoing effort to keep older people active and well, local independent charity Age UK Somerset has opened up its online exercise sessions to new customers. Previously, only existing clients could take part but now anyone living in Somerset or North Somerset, who is over 60, actively able and moving independently, can participate. For many older people, the Covid pandemic has led to both a decrease in general physical fitness, and an increased loneliness and isolation. Previously, the charity held hundreds of community-based classes, bringing older people together and helping them maintain their strength, balance and general fitness levels. Opening up online classes in July allowed many to stay in
touch with friends and exercise safely. The classes are all led by experienced instructors and supported by a member of the charity’s Ageing Well team, who not only monitors the safety of the attendees but helps with technical issues like booking classes and using Zoom. There are a variety of class options, including yoga, tai chi, strength and balance and general fitness. Full details, including booking instructions, can be found on the charity’s website, www.ageuksomerset.org.uk. Age UK Somerset is keen to resume its regular, hall-based classes when it is safe to do so but will continue to offer an online timetable going ahead. For more information, email onlineclasses@ageuksomerset. org.uk
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wellsvoice n NEWS
December 2020
n ON THE BEAT
25
Please use correct channels to report incidents to police
FIRSTLY I would like to thank the community for the support through this difficult time with the Covid-19 pandemic. I want to remind you all about reporting crime to the police. Please call using 101 or 999 for emergency, you can also report online using www. avonandsomerset.police.uk I have found recently the community have been putting incidents on the Wells community pages on Facebook which has caused tensions and negativity on social media. I want to stress the importance that if you become a victim of a crime please call in at the time of the incident. For example, while I was on duty I saw a well-known offender in the area when a car window got smashed and a wallet taken in the city. That same evening I stopped to chat with this individual not knowing what had happened until I later got home, when I saw this on the community page. If this was reported I would have had grounds to get this individual searched at the time. If you do have any issues to discuss please come to us directly or you can contact your local beat team via the Avon and Somerset police website. Please do not use Facebook Messenger under the name of PCSO Samuel White as a reporting tool for crime as this is not monitored every day and also can be missed when the team are on rest days. This is just for information purposes only. As you are aware, the
‘Times have changed in the way we work but we have had an increase in staff numbers to accommodate more and be visual on the streets of Wells’
News from the local policing team with PCSO Donna President response teams have moved to the station at Shepton Mallet and the Neighbourhood team are still operating from Wells Police Station until we move to the fire station on Burcott Road, Wells. This will not be a public station and crimes will still need to be reported by phone, online or at Shepton Mallet Police Station. The Neighbourhood team try our very best to keep the community safe and are passionate in what we do. I have seen the comments “The police don’t do anything.” Times have changed in the way we work but we have had an increase in staff numbers to accommodate more and be visual on the streets of Wells. Please approach us and we would be happy to help you any way we can. Currently, because of the Covid pandemic, applications have been suspended for volunteer work, once this has been lifted there are lots of opportunities to support your local policing team. These details can be found on our website. Community Speedwatch can be as little as an hour a week, any time can make a difference in the community. Neighbourhood Watch schemes can also be found on the website. Or if you want to have an insight into the police, come and have a ride along with the response teams or the Neighbourhood team. We are coming into the festive period. I wish all the community of Wells a Merry Christmas and all the best for the coming year, keep yourselves safe. I hope that we all have the opportunity to be able to spend special time with family and friends. Happy Christmas and a Happy New Year from your Wells Neighbourhood Team.
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Sophie Speed and Amy Fraser from Rockers and Rollers with Sophie and Dylan, and Bethany Chattwood, right, the home service advisor at Crandon Springs
Time capsule buried at care home A TIME capsule reflecting on 2020 has been buried in the grounds of Crandon Springs, the new care home being built on Glastonbury Road, Wells. The care home invited local nurseries Rockers and Rollers and The Tree House Day Nursery to create artwork and writings welcoming Crandon Springs into the community and expressing how 2020 has been for the children. The children donated a wide range of pictures, and even included a soft toy to place into the time capsule. Crandon Springs home service advisor Bethany Chattwood said: “This event has been all about engaging with the local community in a way that is safe and wholesome, it has been
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great fun for everyone. We had so much artwork to include in the time capsule and we loved it.” The care home, run by Barchester Healthcare, will provide residential, dementia and respite care. The marketing suite is now open, and new residents should be able to move in in spring 2021.
Christmas quiz CRANDON Springs is hosting a virtual quiz just before Christmas to bring the community together. The Big Wells Christmas Quiz will take place via Zoom on December 14 at noon. Email CrandonSprings@barchester. com to reserve a place.
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wellsvoice
26
December 2020
n CHRISTMAS GHOST STORY
The New Café By Jan Ellis
H
annah liked to sit in the alcove between the big old fireplace and the window that gave onto a chilly courtyard. She stayed aloof from the hustle and bustle of the café in what had once been the sitting room of a handsome house. As she sat there, looking out, her fingers idly knotted and unknotted the fringes of a shawl on her lap. As customers entered and chose their spots at the oak tables, some shivered and pulled their coats closer, rubbing their hands together and remarking on how cold the room was, despite the festive decorations and the stove in the inglenook. There must have been a draught, but Hannah seemed not to notice it as it grew dark outside and a thin sleet began to cover the pavement, making it slippery. There was a melancholy pleasure to be had, silently watching the customers, especially when they had children or babies with them. Sometimes she would stretch out a hand towards a small child who had wandered over and smiled at her, but inevitably the parents would pick up the child and place it back on its seat. A grey dog came in, shook gritty rain from its fur then started and pulled back towards the door as its owners wrestled the lead in between ordering tea and toasted teacakes from the young waitress. Most of the time Hannah ignored the café’s customers, gazing instead at the courtyard, where the well used to be. She would never forget the well. As the eldest daughter, it was her chore to fetch water and carry it back to the house they shared
‘She lost her footing on the dank, mossy brick and slithered down, her hands grasping hopelessly at thin air as she plunged towards the inky water’
with two other families. That day her mother was busy at home preparing Christmas puddings with an invalid husband and seven little ones under her feet. “Take Alfie,” she had said, handing over a reluctant toddler and a stoneware jug, “and don’t be long.” Hannah struggled with the heavy jug and the wriggling child as they slithered across the icy ground from the house to the yard, so she lifted up the boy and wrapped her shawl tightly around them both, crossing it over her chest and knotting it at the waist as best she could. At the well, she quickly finished her task and was ready to leave when Alfie’s podgy arm swung out, catching their mother’s jug and sending it tumbling. She’d been warned a hundred times of the dangers, but she was more afraid of the beating she’d get if she went home without the jug, so she tied up her skirts, stepped over the edge and used the rough indentations cut into the side to make her way down towards the water. But, inevitably perhaps, she lost her footing on the dank, mossy brick and slithered down, her hands grasping hopelessly at thin air as she plunged towards the inky water, where her heavy skirts soon pulled her under. Some children heard her shriek as she fell and ran to fetch help. It was teatime so it took a while for men to come, and it was the farrier – the strongest of them – who was lowered down on the rope to bring her back up. At a signal the waiting men hauled on the rope. Lanterns were dangled over the edge, but they only reached so far and it seemed an eternity before the bystanders who had crowded around could see the top of the farrier’s dark head and make out the sodden bundle clasped tightly beneath one sturdy arm. Hannah was carried, dazed and barely breathing, to her home where she was put to bed as her mother ran back to the well, screaming. After a few days, the girl developed a fever then
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Jan Ellis writes feel-good fiction and mystery from a 16th-century cottage behind Wells Cathedral. Her books are available via ‘Click and Collect’ from Waterstones on Wells High Street and from libraries across Somerset. Visit www.janelliswriter.com to read more about the books or to contact Jan. fell into a stupor and died. The physician said it was the shock of the fall that had killed her, but the neighbours whispered that it was grief and guilt that had caused her heart to cease its beating. Falling through the darkness, Hannah had felt the shawl come loose from her waist as her brother tumbled past her and was lost.
I
n the café, Imogen began gathering up her shopping bags, scarf and woolly hat, getting ready to leave. “And where do you think you’re going?” she asked her little boy, as she wrestled the pushchair between crowded tables. “I want to talk to the lady.” “Which lady?” she asked, looking around the busy room. The child pointed towards the alcove by the window. “The sad lady in the corner.” “But there is no lady, Ben.” “There is!” “Okay, let’s check, shall we?”
said his mother, hoping to avoid a tantrum on Christmas Eve. “You see – there’s nobody here. Oh, I think you have a leak,” she said, smiling at the owner as she pointed at a puddle of water shining blackly on the flagstone floor. “Not again.” The owner scratched his head and looked up at the ceiling. “I’ve had plumbers in but none of them can tell me where the water’s coming from. There’s nothing but a store cupboard upstairs and the floor’s as solid as they come, so I’m stumped.” “It’s just one of the joys of older properties, I suppose.” The woman shivered. “It’s cold in this part of the room, too. Anyway, we’d best be off.” And, as his mother led him reluctantly away, Ben turned and waved goodbye to the girl who sat weeping silently in the corner. © Jan Ellis
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wellsvoice
December 2020
n NEWS
27
Legal guidance with Chubb Bulleid
Remembrance book dedications invited THE Wells Cathedral annual service of remembrance could not take place this year as the second national lockdown has not allowed the Cathedral to offer public worship. The popular service, which would have been held on Sunday, November 22, this year, usually raises money for end of life care charity Marie Curie and Macmillan Cancer Support. The service offers the chance to remember loved ones and reflect upon the work of both charities in the local community. During the service a Marie Curie nurse and representative from Macmillan present a special book of remembrance which has hundreds of dedications in memory of people from Wells and across Somerset. While the service had to be cancelled, Marie Curie is still offering a way for people to submit dedications to loved ones in the book which is displayed throughout the year in the Corpus Christi chapel. Marie Curie community fundraiser for Somerset, Riona Houghton, said: “We were very sorry not to see the service go ahead this year. In the beautiful setting of Wells Cathedral this service is a time when people can come together to remember
Buying and selling is a more uncertain process than ever at the moment
The book of remembrance loved ones who are no longer with us. And with many people not being able to grieve in the usual way, the service would have been really comforting to the community and to the families and friends of patients who have had to use our services. “Anyone is welcome to submit a dedication to the book of remembrance, and it can be viewed all year round by individuals in private prayer, even in this second lockdown. If you are able to, we ask for a small donation to help fund Marie Curie services, providing compassionate care and vital support to people living with a terminal illness across the region.” People who would like to have a dedication entered can contact Riona on Riona.houghton@ mariecurie.org.uk or 0117 9420 429.
Online food market remains open WELLS Food Festival is keeping open this year’s online food market until December 31. It will give Christmas shoppers the chance to discover and buy produce from local food and drink artisans in an online alternative to the traditional Christmas market. The 2020 food festival was originally held as a virtual event on October 10 and 11 and featured a live cook-a-long banquet, workshops and more than 120 online food stalls from specialist producers. Following the event’s success, event organisers have decided to keep the online market open until the end of the year as a way of helping growers and producers promote their wares to
a wider audience of food lovers and Christmas shoppers. Charlie Bigham of headline sponsor Charlie Bigham’s said: “We’re hoping we can all do our bit to help these fantastic producers, spread some seasonal cheer and secure the future of our artisan food and drink community.” Jon Abbott, chair of Wells Food Festival, said: “The virtual festival was an enormous bonus in the absence of the physical Wells Food Festival. It’s great that with all the effort involved it is able to continue over the Christmas period. “There are so many wonderful products available in the virtual market for gifts or even to treat yourself.”
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Conveyancing and Covid: understand the risks By Gail Barry
BUYING and selling a house is potentially one of the most stressful things we have to deal with in life. Add to this the uncertainties following the national lockdown earlier this year, combined with the latest national lockdown and the possibility of further local lockdowns in the battle against Covid, and it has become an even more uncertain process in recent times. Once contracts have been exchanged in a transaction, both buyer and seller are committed to completing on the agreed completion day. Failure to complete can mean serious penalties for the defaulting party. Unfortunately, the constant threat of further lockdowns means that there is a risk that the parties (or one of them if affected by a local lockdown) could find themselves unable to complete, through no fault of their own. One possible way of reducing the risk is for the parties to agree a special clause in the
contract providing that in the event of a further lockdown, completion will be delayed until the lockdown is over. However, trying to cover all possible eventualities is difficult and the wording must be agreed between the solicitors. Another possibility, particularly if there is no chain, is to agree a simultaneous exchange and completion whereby the parties agree to exchange and complete on the same day. The benefit of this is that the parties are not committed until they know they can complete. However, it does mean that neither party is committed until the day of completion which could mean that one party is left high and dry should the other party decide at the last moment not to go ahead. What this highlights in particular is that you must be clear how you want to proceed before exchanging contracts and, before committing, make sure you speak to your conveyancer so you fully understand the risks. n Gail Barry is a Chartered Legal Executive & Associate with Chubb Bulleid, which has offices in Wells, Street and Somerton. Phone 01749 836100.
Offices in Wells, Street and Somerton Tel: 01749 836100
Personal legal services for you, your business and your family www.chubb-bulleid.co.uk Email: news@wellsvoice.co.uk
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December 2020
n NEWS
Carol celebration being broadcast online SINGERS from across Wells will be taking part in a special online Christmas Carol Celebration. The Wells Good Afternoon Choir was started two years ago by music-man Grenville Jones – the 11th Good Afternoon Choir in the South West. Following lockdown, Grenville launched a regular Wednesday midday online choir rehearsal, shared with Ben England and Matt Finch, conductors of his other Good Afternoon Choirs across the region. Grenville said: “On Wednesday, December 23, we will be broadcasting online a very special Christmas Carol Celebration, which anyone can access on YouTube. “The online choir from across England and with members from afar afield as Australia, America and Canada will be joining in, and there will be carols for everyone with on-screen words, as well as a special performance
Wells Good Afternoon Choir sang at Wells Cathedral during the Wake up Wells Community Day by the talented Finch Family.” Matt Finch is best known in Bath as MD to the Bath Light Operatic Group and earlier this year, together with his wife Bella and children Jess, aged 19, and Oli, aged 17, performed together as a quartet on one of Matt’s Wednesday Good Afternoon Choir rehearsals.
“We had a fantastic response to the performance of the brilliant Finch Family and they will be one of our special groups taking part in the online Christmas celebration on December 23,” said Grenville. “The good thing is that because it is on YouTube, anyone can watch it over the Christmas
period and have their own Christmas Carol Celebration in their own homes.” To watch, search for GoodAfternoonChoir/online. A new online rehearsal season will start in January. For full details, see www. goodafternoonchoir.org/online. html
Goldies sessions helping people feel less isolated OLDER isolated people across England and Wales are singing on their sofas every week with the Golden-Oldies charity. “Goldies”, as it is more fondly known, had been holding fun daytime Sing & Smile sessions around the country, including at the Connect Centre in Wells. These had to be cancelled back in March due to Covid. Within weeks the charity introduced online singing with its popular formula of Sixties hits
Cheryl Davies and Rachel Parry and sessions shared by Rachel Parry and Cheryl Davies, two of the charity’s popular session
leaders in Wales. Grenville Jones, the Goldies founder, said: “The response was immediate and in July we were able to get funding to increase to twice weekly sessions, Rachel going live every Tuesday and Cheryl leading the singalongs every Thursday.” There is a website, goldieslive. com, and the pre-recorded sessions go live on YouTube and on Facebook every week. Grenville said: “If Goldies was
important to lonely older people prior to Covid, then our work is even more vital now to combat isolation and help well-being, reaching out to those who are vulnerable and stuck at home.” Rachel and Cheryl are currently working towards a special Christmas Carol Concert which will be broadcast on December 23. It will include popular carols and special performances for everyone to enjoy at home.
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December 2020
29
n FROM THE TOWN HALL
Special charity that deserves support I AM honoured and humbled to have been chosen as the 647th Mayor of Wells. And this also presents a unique opportunity. An opportunity to make a difference and I want to raise at least £3,000 for the Wells branch of Macmillan Cancer Support. This charity is special for me because: 1. Macmillan rely almost entirely on public donations to provide its vital support to people with cancer but has suffered a huge drop in income as a result of the coronavirus pandemic. 2. As many as 50,000 people in the UK are believed to have cancer which has not yet been diagnosed because of the disruption caused by Covid-19. 3. Members of my family have been lost to cancer. 4. All the money we raise will be spent locally. Please help me to support
Ross Young of Wells SOUP presents £100 to Mark Tobin, chair of the Wells branch of Macmillan Cancer Support, for the Mayor’s Charity Appeal Macmillan which was forced to announce in September plans to make 310 redundancies in response to an expected £175m loss in fundraising income by the end of 2022, as a result of the coronavirus pandemic. These measures are designed to protect critical cancer services, such as Macmillan nurses and the Macmillan support phone
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line, which have been heavily impacted by coronavirus. The charity’s key focus will be helping to get cancer treatment and care back up and running. As Macmillan’s income has dropped, they are seeing a significant increase in the need for their support. “At a time when our huge loss in income is directly impacting
those around us who are affected by cancer, we are grateful to Philip and his team for his support and help in ensuring that cancer does not become The Forgotten C. I look forward to working with him to raise as much money as possible for the people and communities of Somerset,” said Genevieve Drinkwater, senior fundraising manager for Macmillan. “We feel privileged to have been selected as the charity for his mayoral term.” If you would like to know more about the appeal or have any cunning ideas about how to fundraise in this time of Covid please phone me on 07715770454 or email me on my address below. To donate please use this link: https://macmillan-org.enthuse. com/pf/philip-welch Thank you. Mayor of Wells Philip Welch Email: p.welch@wells.gov.uk
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wellsvoice
30
December 2020
n MESSAGE FROM THE MP
Collective effort has seen us turn a corner
THE Prime Minister has now set out to Parliament the plans for the Covid-19 restrictions following the end of the national lockdown. Although, sadly, the print deadline for Wells Voice means I have to write this before we know which tier Somerset will initially be in. I first of all want to say a huge thank you to all those in Wells who have supported our most vulnerable and supported our fantastic local businesses who have had to shut or change how they operate. I know what a tough ask it has been, especially as there were comparatively low rates of infection here in Somerset, but our collective effort has been worth it, we’ve turned the corner on the second wave and won ourselves a Christmas with family and friends.
News from Wells MP James Heappey ‘It may not be a ‘normal’ Christmas but we can all feel a bit more positive about 2021’
There’s also good news on the vaccine developed at Oxford University and AstraZeneca. The latest testing data shows that one of the dosing regimens was 90 per cent effective. The UK Government backed this horse early and so hundreds of millions of doses will come to us as a priority. As we head into December, the Government is having to make some extremely tough decisions ahead of the festive period. The tiered system is set to be an important part of our continued fight against coronavirus and so I am engaging regularly with local council leaders regarding how we can all do our bit to halt the spread while trying to enjoy as much of the festivities with those close to us. It may not be a ‘normal’
Christmas but we can all feel a bit more positive about 2021, with planning of the roll out of the vaccines already well underway and mass rapid testing playing a huge role in flattening the curve of infections. The festive period is always one of great joy and I can already see Wells getting well and truly into the Christmas spirit. There may be more subdued celebrations and the addition of a lot more virtual quizzes and Zoom calls, but it will no doubt still be special as we look to move on with our lives and begin to start to live with Covid-19, thanks to an effective vaccine. In this last column of the year, I would of course like to wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
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wellsvoice
December 2020
n NEWS
31
Focus on health with Bluebird Care
Pursue something with passion and you can achieve so much By Jenny Atkins
Members of Wells Carnival committee walked the route on what would have been this year’s carnival night, November 20, having first launched a rocket, as is customary to signal the start of the carnival. Pictured before the walkers set off from the Sherston Inn are Stella Cullen-Hands, Sophie Gardiner-Stott, Mike Gardiner-Stott, Nick Cullen-Hands, Josie Day and Maurice Day.
Palace gives groups free memberships THE Bishop’s Palace has started a new initiative, Community Membership, to encourage local not-for-profit groups and organisations to make the most of the unique heritage site at the heart of Wells. The health benefits of visiting beautiful places with a tranquil atmosphere are well known, so The Palace Trust now wants to ensure that those people who need it most can benefit from it on their doorstep. It is also a good way for The Bishop’s Palace to build stronger links with the local community. To launch the scheme, The Palace Trust has given 50 complimentary memberships to local groups including The Lawrence Centre, which provides day opportunities for older people with memory loss and health issues. Lawrence Centre manager Maggie Charlesworth was given ten membership cards, and within a couple of weeks she got in touch with the Palace to say how much everyone had appreciated them. “Already it has made a real difference to some of our members, carers and volunteers,” she said. “Some of our more vulnerable
members haven’t been out at all during lockdown so it really is a wonderful place to ease people back into the community. Earlier in the summer we had our team meeting in the garden which was a real treat.” Membership lasts for 12 months and entitles the holder to free entrance to The Bishop’s Palace and Gardens daily during opening hours, along with members only events, and also to reduced admission rates at Hestercombe Gardens, Kilver Court and Forde Abbey. Organisations are also able to purchase a membership on behalf of a group, and they are invited to get in touch with the Palace if they would like to sponsor a community membership for a local organisation, perhaps one that is close to their heart. Each organisation can purchase membership cards for £25.60 each (a 20 per cent saving on the standard price). These cards can be used by multiple people in the organisation / group. For more information on the scheme, contact Siobhan Goodwin, community engagement manager, siobhan. goodwin@bishopspalace.org.uk or 01749 988111.
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Passion The meaning of passion is to have a strong feeling or emotion that you have inside of you, for someone, or something. It’s often our passion which gives us the reason to keep going with our likes and desires. Having a passion can also give us reasons to have new experiences and is linked to happiness. Having certain passions gives you something in common with other people and therefore develops relationships which also creates a support network which is important to us feeling included. Passion for some people is to help others, which over the past few months we have seen throughout our communities. It is also really important in some professions – for example, a nurse in a child’s hospital, a social worker, a carer and a teacher are some of the people who need to have passion within their role due to the energy and detail needed to support these roles. Passion is a reason that inspires and drives people
toward specific goals, no matter how unlikely or difficult they might be. When you have a passion about something, it is hard work but no matter how hard it is, because of the passion the enthusiasm you give to pursue and give it your all. Giving it your all can include a roll out of emotions including anger and frustration whilst working through any challenges or obstacles, this is where the passion becomes a combination of love and hatred at times and this drives your passion into an obsession and the need for perfection. Through hard work and enthusiasm along with an experience of a variety of emotions you will eventually see the success. Having passion and excitement can also be the difference between getting something done and getting it done well. When we have passion or excitement we tend to put in the effort needed not just to complete the task or job but to go through the emotions for perfection. Some say if you choose a job you love, you will never have to work a day. n Jenny Atkins is Care Manager of Bluebird Care (Mendip), email CMMendip@bluebirdcare. co.uk, phone 01749 372197 or 01458 570015.
01749 37 21 97
Email: news@wellsvoice.co.uk
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December 2020
n NEWS
Help for work with homeless
Will going the distance to help
THE Elim Connect Centre in Wells has received £10,000 from The Somerset Move-In Fund to help its work with the homeless. It is one of eight local charities and community groups directly supporting homeless people to move into independent living that will share grants worth more than £70,000 from the fund, which is managed by Somerset Community Foundation (SCF). After consulting a range of homelessness charities and community groups earlier in the year, SCF was told that many homeless people could not move into their own homes because they could not find the funds to purchase essentials such as curtains, carpets, furniture, white goods, and pots and pans. Val Bishop, programmes director at SCF, said: “Last year we published our Hidden Somerset: Homelessness report which showed that hundreds,
YOUNG fundraiser Will Jenkins has raised nearly £3,000 in his efforts to help orangutans in Borneo. Will, from Wells, was inspired to help the creatures by a former headteacher who had travelled to Borneo to volunteer with the Orangutan Foundation, and a programme by David Attenborough that described the impact of deforestation. Will launched a challenge called Will’s 7300 Miles, the distance between here and the Borneo rainforests, hoping to raise £2,000 for the cause – enough to protect at least 1,000 acres of rainforest – by cycling, walking and running. He has passed the 6,300mile mark and hopes to clock up the remaining miles by the end of the year, but he has already surpassed his fundraising target. He has been inspired along the way by a letter of support from David Attenborough.
if not thousands of people continue to sleep rough or live in inappropriate or insecure housing across Somerset. In light of recent government initiatives to provide temporary housing for all rough sleepers in Somerset, we have an unprecedented opportunity to help potentially hundreds of local homeless people into their own homes and dramatically reduce homelessness in our county over the next two years.” The Somerset Move-In Fund has been designed to help local charities give homeless people the best possible chance of finding a place to live and make it a home, with each individual receiving up to £500 of support. Val added: “We’re delighted to award these grants from The Somerset Move-In Fund and to continue our successful partnership with Somerset County Council. We’d like to thank them and
Many homeless people cannot move into their own homes as they have no money for essentials the other generous donors who contributed to the fund for their kind support, which will help hundreds of some of the most disadvantaged people in our communities to build a more stable, safe and fulfilling life.” To find out more about grant funding, call Somerset Community Foundation on 01749 344949 or visit www. somersetcf.org.uk
Young people’s support continues
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Call 01749 670 100 Email rod@wfs.me.uk Visit www.wellsfuneralservices.co.uk To advertise, contact Andy on 01749 675157
SINCE temporarily closing the doors on its physical youth club settings within Mendip and South Somerset, YMCA Brunel Group (previously YMCA Mendip) has continued to support young people in varying ways. Keeping in contact with the young people they support has allowed the charity to stay reactive to their current needs, and the difficulties they are facing in these uncertain times. Youth workers have offered support via phone calls, and have provided online resources, Zoom youth clubs meetings and workshops, helping young people learn new skills, like CV writing. Young people’s mental wellbeing is of paramount importance, especially with the additional pressures that they are experiencing; and offering them a way in which they can keep in touch with friends,
and have regular contact with trained youth workers to talk through any worries or concerns, has been possible due to the continued support received from local town and parish councils. During this second lockdown YMCA Brunel Group has launched a new initiative which encourages all young people to stay connected and book a specific time slot on weekdays between 6.30pm and 9pm. The half-hour time slot is for any 10to 19-year-olds (up to 25 years with SEN) to utilise how they wish, so that the session reflects their needs and offers them the greatest benefit: have a chat, group Zoom, play online games, get help with homework, or gain advice and support with any feelings or concerns. Visit www.mendipymca. org.uk to find out about YMCA Brunel Group’s youth work provision in the area.
Sustainability work recognised BIGHAM’S, the food producer with a site at Dulcote, near Wells, has secured B Corp certification. This recognises companies
that positively impact both people and planet, to build a more sustainable and inclusive economy.
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wellsvoice
December 2020
n NEWS IN BRIEF Sports charity nears finish AFTER 13 successful years, Somerset sports charity TS5C is to hang up its running shoes and will close by the end of 2020. It was established in 2007 by Alan Gloak, the former chair of Somerset County Council and Mayor of Glastonbury. TS5C (Team Somerset 500 Club) was initially set up to support young aspiring athletes in Somerset who had the potential, but lacked the money or facilities, to represent Team GB at the London 2012 Olympics. After the London Games, the charity continued to fund aspiring athletes working towards Rio 2016 and more recently Tokyo 2020. Its remit also expanded to support healthy living projects, a wheelchair basketball initiative, and numerous sports clubs and events. In all, TS5C has raised and distributed over £250,000 to almost 150 aspiring athletes and supported more than a dozen health and wellbeing projects throughout Somerset. It leaves a legacy of the TS5C Healthy Living Fund which will continue to be administered through the Somerset Community Foundation. It will be open to applications from groups linked to sport and healthy living projects (www. somersetcf.org.uk).
Novel in spotlight A DEBUT novel by 80-year-old author Margaret Castle – writing as M.A. Castle – has been
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a new continuous cough, or a loss or change to sense of smell or taste. Anyone with one or more of these symptoms should book a test at nhs.uk/coronavirus or by calling 119.
Accolade for lawyer
Alan Gloak, TS5C chairman, presenting a grant cheque to one of the charity’s young athletes, Ronnie Wells featured in the window of the Waterstones shop in Wells. Keeper’s traces what happens to an idyllic marriage when suddenly, things change. Like her heroine Clara, Margaret lives in a cottage in the countryside, but in Somerset rather than Suffolk. She began Keeper’s a few years ago when she started a new writing class and her tutor, noticing that her short stories were overflowing with subject matter, suggested she should try writing a novel.
New testing facility A NEW walk-through coronavirus testing facility has opened at Bridgwater Town Hall, the first of its kind in Somerset. A drive-through facility in Yeovilton has also been set up recently, and they join the existing facilities at Taunton Racecourse and Frome Cricket Club. Testing is available only for those with coronavirus symptoms – a high temperature,
WANTED
All Old / Vintage Fishing Tackle Reels, Rods, Cased Fish, Angling Books Collector pays cash. Will collect
Call Nigel on 01934 412088 or 07428 232027 or email nigel164townsend@btinternet.com
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VICTORIA Cobham, a family lawyer based in the Wells office of law firm Mogers Drewett, has been featured in the new Chambers UK 2021 Guide for her standout contribution to her practice. She is one of four lawyers from Mogers Drewett to be ‘ranked’ in the new guide.
Funding donation THE Crematorium & Memorial Group, part of Dignity Plc, which operates the crematorium at Croscombe, has donated £6,000 to help secure funding to support the work of a Specialist Dementia Research Nurse at the Bristol Brain Centre. The dementia clinic is the only neurology clinic in the region and supports patients from across the South West. Specialist Dementia Nurses are not funded by the NHS and require full charitable support.
Gift opportunity SPECIALIST insurer Ecclesiastical will be giving 120 different charities an early Christmas gift of a £1,000 donation. Ten winners will be announced each week day from December 7-22.
Somerset residents can nominate a registered charity close to their hearts to benefit from this festive financial boost at www.movementforgood. com/12days
Showhome opens A NEW showhome was due to be unveiled at the Foxglove Heights development on Portway, Wells, on November 28. Persimmon Homes Severn Valley was opening the doors to its three-bedroom Hanbury-style property. Househunters wanting to visit must book in advance by visiting www.persimmonhomes.com or calling 01749 467143 so that Persimmon can ensure Covid-19 safety measures are adhered to. Foxglove Heights is part of a wider 220-property development.
Tax views invited DEVON and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service would like to hear people’s views on how much they would be prepared to pay for the services provided by the fire service through their council tax. The online council tax precept survey can be accessed at www. dsfire.gov.uk. The consultation finishes on December 18.
Search for trustees SOMERSET Wildlife Trust is searching for new trustees. Applications for what is a voluntary role must be received by January 4. For more details, see somersetwildlife.org
At the Heart of England’s Smallest City City of Wells Town Hall Various rooms to hire for: Conferences, Seminars Fairs, Shows, Exhibitions, Marriages, Receptions, all types of Meetings and Local Group Classes Very reasonable rates
For Prices and Bookings contact the Town Hall Manager- Tel: 01749 673091. e-mail: thm@wells.gov.uk Website: www.wells.gov.uk
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December 2020
n WHAT’S ON
n NEWS Election delay move criticised
ANDELLI Art’s festive show Wish List will unveil some unique, inspiring and unexpected gift ideas. The gallery will reopen to visitors for the exhibition from December 2. All works will also be available to view online from this date. This year, artworks include a fine 19th-century European portrait of Saint Nicholas, recent artworks including The Island by renowned Bath artist Malcolm Ashman, along with curious objects such as a 1930s American folk art letter rack or a 1970s sculpture by Constance Ann Parker (1920-2106). Ellie Jones, who runs the gallery, said: “Whether the art is contemporary or centuries old, underpinning all the work is that it has to be something we love to live with. Since the Andelli Art gallery is situated within my home, the idea is to offer an
WELLS Liberal Democrat county councillor Tessa Munt says it is “outrageous” that Conservative councillors have voted to ask the government to delay next year’s local elections. The ruling Conservative Group made the move at a full meeting of Somerset County Council on November 18. The Leader of the council, David Fothergill, will now write to the Secretary of State requesting the 2021 elections be postponed. The Liberal Democrats say that since Cllr Fothergill has already expressed his desire that a new unitary council begin working in 2023, effectively the request is for the elections to be cancelled altogether, meaning that the Conservatives would remain in charge of the county council for six years instead of four. Cllr Munt said: “It’s outrageous that Somerset’s Conservatives have acted in such a high-handed fashion. It’s really important that local people in Somerset choose their representatives on the county council. “I was listed to ask a question about this, but the Tories seemed so scared of how the debate was going that they panicked, cut the question session short and stopped councillors from making any contribution to the discussion.” Cllr Fothergill told the council meeting that the power to delay the elections lay solely with the government. He said: “I must stress this is not us voting to defer the election. That is not within our power. “The earliest that any election could be held if it was deferred would be May 2022. To hold an election in May 2021 would be a disservice to the people of Somerset and the transitional period towards any new unitary.” Two separate proposals have been submitted to the government for the replacement of the five existing Somerset councils. The county council’s One Somerset proposal would see the creation of a single new authority, while the district councils’ Stronger Somerset plan would see two new unitaries.
Gallery unveils festive delights
The Island by Bath artist Malcolm Ashman intimate and informal setting to look at art and help potential customers visualise easily how a work will look in a home environment.”
The exhibition runs until December 21 at the gallery at Mendip House, Upper Breach, South Horrington, open Tuesday-Saturday, 10am-5pm.
Chen Tai Chi
P i l o g a Fi t When In – Work Out New Online Classes Start Now www.taichi24.co.uk www.pilogafit.co.uk John Beasley 01749 672482 n DO YOU WANT YOUR EVENT TO STAND OUT? When you are able to stage an event again and you want people to notice, we can print it with a colour background like this from just £7 + VAT. Find out more by emailing sales@ wellsvoice.co.uk
The deadline for the January issue of Wells Voice is December 16
Heritage Courtyard Gallery’s winter exhibition opens on December 3
‘Wonderful work to share’ HERITAGE Courtyard Gallery will open its doors to its winter exhibition, Weathering The Storm, on December 3. Heather Wallace and Rebecca Barnard, directors of the gallery and studios in Heritage Courtyard, Sadler Street, Wells, said: “We look forward to wishing all visitors our usual warm welcome and, as always, we have some wonderful work to share with you. “Despite these ongoing difficult times, our artists continue to create stunning work and we are sure you will be able to find that perfect Christmas
To advertise, contact Andy on 01749 675157
present or unique work of art for your home. “We will be showcasing beautiful oil paintings, prints, ceramics, collage, felt jewellery and scarves and mixed media works all created by our Somerset artists.” Much of the work on show has been created as a response to the current strange and surreal times. Details and updates about opening times can be found on the website: www. heritagecourtyardstudio.com The exhibition will also be showcased on the Instagram page @heritagecourtyard studios
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wellsvoice
December 2020
n IN DAYS GONE BY
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With Clare Blackmore
Benefactors recognised needs of poor WELLS in days gone by has always tried to look after its poor and disadvantaged, as witnessed by the magnificent collection of almshouses in the city, and many private citizens of Wells also recognised the need to give alms to the poor, particularly at Christmas. In 1708, Mrs Bridgett Andrews left £50 in her will and the interest of the said money was to be given by the trustees of the Brick’s Alms-houses unto “25 of the poorest and most honest householders in the city not receiving any relief”. George Andrews, son of the above Bridgett, also left £50 in his will of 1732, the interest of which was to go to “25 sober and indigent widows”. In 1714, William Wesley left instructions that the vicar and churchwardens of St Cuthbert’s Church should “distribute yearly a 10s piece to five poor old widows of the city and a 10s piece to five poor widows of the out parish of St Cuthbert at Christmastide. They should live
Picture of a wintry Wells scene courtesy of Wells & Mendip Museum a good and virtuous life by the laws of the religion of the Church of England.” Edward Cordwent of London in his will of April 1819 directed that 20s each should be given to 10 poor people of the parish of St Cuthbert in Tucker Street, Wells, which was to be paid yearly on December 25. Jacob Worrall, by his will
of February 1720, directed that “four poor boys of the City of Wells should be given four good cloth coats to the value of 5s which are to be bought and delivered to them at Christmas by the incumbent of St Cuthbert’s Church”. It was not only at Christmas that alms for the poor were distributed:
n LETTERS
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Six simple rules for dealing with virus I HAVE been reading the memoirs of my uncle, Colonel Rollo Gillespie. He served in India for much of his career. Among his treasured documents was this instruction issued from The Pasteur Institute of India (right). That institute specialised in immunology and virology. The period was the early 1920s, just after the 1918 Spanish Flu Epidemic which killed millions of the population of the world. How simple. No threats. There were no instructions from Radio or TV. Just six rules for dealing with the virus written on official brown paper. Colin Gillespie Wells
Repair Cafe a great help to me as well READING about the ‘Repairer fixed radio and microwave’
Sevier’s Charity: To the poor in Southover bread to be distributed on the second Sunday of every month. The same person not to have bread two months in succession. Baron’s Charity: Income £7 1s 4d to be distributed annually for the poor of the city. Rivett’s Charity: For bread for poor people after service at church. Healey’s Charity: For poor widows to be distributed in the chancel of St Cuthbert’s Church by the vicar. Mrs Ann Jenkyns left £3 3s yearly to supply the Common Prayer Book to the poor of St Cuthbert’s and St Andrews. Healey’s Charity: £5 annually to be distributed by the vicar to poor persons who live soberly and industriously in the communion of the Church of England and who have large and sick families. In 1871, these “Bread and Dole” charities in Wells distributed £200 to the poor and needy of the city.
helps individuals to consider repair instead of ‘new’ together with the amazing range of skills volunteers have and are able to share and meet with others. Thank you from a very grateful householder. As suggested a donation to the Wells Foodbank is on its way. Hilary Pearson Wells
Ideal post office site there all this time
Instructions for how to deal with a virus in the 1920s letter in November’s issue, I would like to thank Julie Wright for introducing me to Mike Philliskirk through the Wells Repair Cafe. He carried out a fantastic restoration job on a sizeable bird table together with three other restoration jobs in the garden ensuring greater longevity of these items.
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These were much needed in preparation of the autumn and winter weather. Thank you to both concerned and I do hope that this help may continue through the Wells Repair Cafe during the next few months until the cafe may open again in better and more sociable times. It is a great concept and
THE headline that the Post Office is looking to protect services rings hollow when they closed the city post office in July. This was not a sudden decision but a planned one. Why are they still looking for a site when the old Thomas Cook site has been available all this time? Centrally placed and with a good safe from their foreign exchange days it would appear to be ideal… or perhaps they aren’t looking too hard. Nick Potts Resident of the city without a central post office
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December 2020
n AROUND THE SOCIETIES CITY OF WELLS LIONS THIS year has been difficult because we have not been able to provide the same amount of support that we have done in the past to local charitable organisations. Every one of our events had to be cancelled once lockdown was announced. The only event that we had been able to run was the Business over Breakfast early in the year which raised £1,250 for Macmillan Cancer Support. However we have been making donations from what funds we have to many local organisations to help for example the Connect Centre (homeless), the Lawrence Centre (supporting people with long-term illnesses), Children’s Hospice South West, the local branch of Marie Curie, Macmillan Cancer Support, the local branch of the Royal British Legion, the Alzheimer’s Society, Heads Up, St Margaret’s Hospice, donations of ‘Message in a Bottle’ to name some. Now we need to replenish our funds and people can help support City of Wells Lions charity when they purchase from Amazon Smile. The City of Wells Lions are now a registered charity with Amazon Smile. Amazon Smile will donate 0.5 per cent of the purchase price at no additional cost to the purchaser if they nominate City of Wells Lions as their chosen charity. The website link for making Amazon Smile purchases nominating City of Wells Lions is https://smile.amazon.co.uk/ ch/1181081-0 One hundred per cent of all money collected from the public
is donated to these and other local charitable organisations providing help and service for the local community. You can also come and visit us in the market place on Wednesday, December 9, and try your luck on our tombola, restrictions permitting. We have lots of lovely prizes lined up for you. Our plans for next year to raise more funds for charity are to support the May Fair (bank holiday now in June) and maypole dancing, organise the Moat Boat Racing (August Bank Holiday), more concerts in the park and indoors, Business over Breakfast, Diabetes Awareness and others. We shall need help to run these events so if you are interested in discovering what we do, the fun we have knowing we can make a difference, you are most welcome to visit us at one of our meetings. Please call us on 0345 833 6736 or email lions@cityofwellslions. org. We are always open to new ideas to raise money and how we can help, funds permitting. Our regular monthly meetings are on the second Monday in each month at the Swan Hotel, Sadler Street. Next meeting 7pm Monday, December 14, at the Swan Hotel, restrictions permitting, otherwise it will be a Zoom meeting. WELLS & DISTRICT GARDENING CLUB IN an issue of The Spectator from 1792 Joseph Addison quotes his old friend the kindly
SITUATIONS VACANT Stoberry Park School, North Road, Wells, BA5 2TJ
SCHOOL CLEANER REQUIRED IMMEDIATELY
12.5 hours per week (term time only) Monday to Friday 3.30pm-6pm Salary Grade 17: £9.24 per hour We are looking to recruit a committed and dedicated cleaner to join an experienced cleaning team that helps provide a welcoming environment for our students and staff. Stoberry Park School is fully committed to a process of safer recruitment in order to safeguard the children in our care. This post will require a criminal background check via the disclosure procedure. Application forms are available from the school website www.stoberryparkschool.com/vacancies/ Please send an application form to the school by post or e-mail. Email: agouldney2@educ.somerset.gov.uk
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Cotoneaster waterii with an abundance of fruit country squire, Sir Roger de Coverley: “I have often thought, says Sir Roger, it happens very well that Christmas should fall out in the middle of winter.” This seems a sentiment which many of us will feel very comfortable with. After all, a picnic of roast turkey and Brussel sprouts in the middle of Zaire or an overheated barbecue on a beach in South Australia does not appear to have much of a festive appeal. Neither of these options could be called cosy. And it is this element of cosiness which is essentially a northern affair. We are also much in need of cheer to boost our diminishing optimism as the days shorten. It’s time to bring the garden into the home. We can plunder overhanging evergreens, rescue those feisty seedheads which have outwitted the autumnal attack and gather in the drying hydrangea blooms to be stuck into vases or popped among the greenery. It is the greenery that sets the tone for Christmas, celebrated in many songs and carols. Green and red, of course; the archetype festive combination. In our front garden stands a large umbrella specimen of Cotoneaster waterii, a variety which gives really good value. In winter, it displays a mass of red berries against dark green foliage. Once the thrushes, both resident and migrant, have had their fill the leaves fall away to be replaced by small umbels of whitish blossom humming with bees. The fruit sets and the cycle restarts. Throughout all the seasons it never lacks interest. This year it bears a mass of leaves and scarcely a red berry. Lack of proper pollination in spring, perhaps, or it has decided to have a sabbatical, or is there something more sinister in the air? Short commons for the birds this Christmas. The accompanying picture shows the abundance of fruit last winter.
No need for decorations or fairy lights in the garden. Optimistic as ever, we await next year with a greater sense of hope and relief if things go right. As far as future plans for the Gardening Club are concerned, these are still on hold. We are patient folk in the main and look forward to those shoots and blooms which are starting to show. Still time to plant some bulbs – not too late for tulips; my late planting record for tulips is February 21 and they still flowered nicely. Keep an eye on the website should things start to move into a different gear: wellsgarden. club. In the meantime, have as good a Christmas as is possible and a bright and colourful new year. Pip Harwood WELLS U3A WELLS U3A (University of the Third Age) is well and going strong through these difficult times. Most of our 700 members are of a certain age but do not need to have been to university in their youth or even had an academic background, they are just people who love getting together to share interests of all kinds. There are 63 very varied groups from chemistry to jazz, swing and crooners; from cosmology to Scrabble. If you fancy a walk or a cycle ride there’s a group for you. To see all the groups available we have a very informative website: https://u3asites.org.uk/wells, or just Google ‘Wells U3A’, where you are also able to join the society. Throughout the pandemic many groups have managed to keep going, adhering to the safety guidelines and keeping in touch with each other. Walking and cycling were able to meet in small groups and follow the two-metre rules when needed. Ten groups have taken advantage of Zoom such as appreciating literature and Italian conversation, to name but two, with more groups looking into using it as Wells U3A have invested in Zoom Pro which gives longer uninterrupted sessions. From very early on a Zoom coffee morning has been organised every Friday morning to replace our Friday coffee morning at the Connect Centre. The monthly talks that we
Email: sales@wellsvoice.co.uk
December 2020
n AROUND THE SOCIETIES used to hold at the museum are now set up for us online with the help of Mirthy talks, a site that provides talks on many topics such as “US Presidents in Bits and Pieces” to “Travels with my penguin”. Our chair, Susan Revell, sends out a weekly bulletin by email and it is personally delivered to all of our members not online. This gives information from Wells Coronavirus Network, gardening hints, recipes and any other news that our members would be interested in. Since the first lockdown every member has received two copies of our newsletter, which is more like a small booklet. We are very happy to welcome new members. An application form can be found on our website. If there is not a group that covers your interests we are always pleased to welcome new members to set one up. We do have a lack of craft groups, except painting, especially as more people have taken up crafting during lockdown, so if you have a special crafting skill please get in touch. It could start with crafting at home and then getting together on Zoom to discuss and learn about the item made. We have a strong committee who are always available to give advice to members and group leaders. Looking forward to more activities starting again after Christmas and to a vaccine for all of us of a certain age. Ann Brown WELLS WI TWENTY-FIVE members joined our November Zoom meeting. Our president Anne and secretary Val reported back from the online Somerset County WI annual meeting which saw the appointment of a new county chair. They also enjoyed talks from Tom Heap of Countryfile and Mary-Jess who, while studying music and Mandarin Chinese at university in China, entered and won the Chinese version of X Factor. We will be holding our online Christmas meeting on December 8, and joining Keinton Mandeville WI for theirs on December 3. We are still active and in touch with each other despite lockdown. The 2021 resolution shortlist has been announced and each
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member is now voting for one of the following: 1. A call to increase awareness of the subtle signs of ovarian cancer 2. Stop women dying prematurely from coronary heart disease 3. Tackling racism and discrimination 4. Protecting nature space to create wildlife-friendly communities 5. Stop the destruction of peat bogs to tackle climate change Our guest speaker was Richard McGill from Freewheelers, a registered charity founded in 1990 that delivers a service to the NHS and the wider community all over Somerset and the surrounding areas. Sometimes known as blood bikes, they also deliver pathology and microbiology specimens, patient notes, X-rays, breast milk and other medical supplies to wherever they are needed. Their regular deliveries to two local air ambulance bases enable casualties to receive blood at the roadside. In 2019 they made over 6,000 deliveries, riding more than 170,000 miles. Using the service instead of taxis and couriers saves the NHS an estimated £113 million each year. Freewheelers is one of about 30 groups that cover almost the entire country, making up the National Association of Blood Bikes. Sometimes groups join in long-distance relays across the country. Freewheelers is run entirely by volunteers. Running costs are between £2,000-£2,500 a week, mainly fuel and bike servicing but also insurance, GPS trackers, vehicle tax and MOTs. They rely on sponsors, bequests and donations. Mulberry and Thatchers have recently helped but any offers of practical help with support and fundraising are welcome at www.freewheelers. org.uk Our evening ended with a snap lockdown treasure hunt. Members were asked to find in their houses five objects: something wrinkly; purple; squishy; wooden and something that made us happy. Finds on show included fruits, cuddly toys, cushions, photos of grandchildren, bottles of wine, jewellery and underwear. New women are always welcome – for more, see www. facebook.com/Wellssomersetwi Veronica Howe
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Toby Stephens, centre, pictured with Yeovil Town’s academy manager Terry Skiverton and first team manager Darren Sarll
Former Wells player signs pro contract FOOTBALL A YOUNG football player who developed his skills with Wells City has signed a professional contract with Yeovil Town. Midfielder Toby Stephens, aged 17, joined Wells City Under 9s and stayed with the club for several seasons, helping his team-mates win numerous trophies. He was then spotted by Southampton and played for their academy in Bath, before being asked to join Yeovil Town academy. When Yeovil academy closed a number of clubs offered Toby a contract, including Yeovil Town, and being a Yeovil fan himself, that was the club he
wanted to join. He has signed a professional deal for the next two seasons. In a report on the Yeovil Town website, Toby said: “I’m very happy, I’ve been coming here a lot watching Yeovil from a young age, and I was delighted to hear the news when it was over the line. My dad was really happy for me, there’s a lot of credit he deserves too.” Yeovil’s academy manager Terry Skiverton said: “Toby played with the U18s all last season where he was playing a year up, something he really excelled in. “He was one of the players, that to the manager and I, stood out. For us, it was a no brainer to give him this opportunity.”
Lily awarded bursary by Princeton HOCKEY WELLS Cathedral School pupil Lily Webb, aged 17, has been awarded a prestigious fouryear hockey bursary to attend Princeton University for the forthcoming academic year. Princeton University, a top ten Ivy League research university in New Jersey, is the fourth oldest college in the United States. Lily will move to the United States next summer to take up her place at the university. While she is there, she will play field hockey for the celebrated Princeton Tigers. Lily was approached about the opportunity of studying in America by an ex-international
Lily Webb with her Offer Certificate from Princeton hockey management scout, who watched her play at the Futures Cup in 2018, part of the selection process for England age group squads. Lily then attended a ‘showcase’ tournament at Surbiton Hockey Club, where the Princeton coach was one of several in attendance.
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December 2020
n TAKE A BREAK For younger readers
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wellsvoice
December 2020
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n SPORT
Well-supported series of events GOLF BEFORE the latest lockdown temporarily halted golf again, Mendip Golf Club held a number of successful events. There were 139 competitors in the annual running of the Stephenson Cup with some excellent scoring in evidence. Division 3 went to James Pitchell with a net 68. Division 2 saw a win for John Ellis with an outstanding 64. Division 1 was won by Dean Lewer with a 68. However the cup winner with a fine 63, playing off 20, was Lee Hurst. The Ladies played a stand aside Texas Scramble with 50 Ladies competing (two teams only had three players). Winning with a net 57.4 were Penny Oliver, Lyn Jones, Allison Rumming and Lynn Cox, an amazing 8.6 ahead of the second-placed team of Jean Padfield, Val Dixon, Hilary Rowdon and Susy Ruskin who carded a net 66. The Seniors Captain’s Charity Day was a great success. Despite very stormy weather 118 Seniors braved the elements. The main winner on the day was the Alzheimer’s Society with the grand sum of £751. The competition winners were Alan O’Leary, Martin Myers, Paul Smith and Andy Parfitt with a fine 88 points. The Autumn Texas Scramble event saw 111 men compete. As always the competition was keenly contested with just one point separating positions 2-6. However well clear of the field came Troy Chivers, Shaun Rich and George Hobbs with 55.9 whose round contained 12 net birdies. A very popular annual event in Mendip’s calendar is the Seniors Drawn Pairs event. Seventy two Seniors battled it out in some tough weather conditions and despite this the scoring was extremely good with only a single point separating the top three teams. Winning on count back were John Ellis and Ricki Kerry who are the 2020 Seniors Pairs Champions. Mendip’s Men compete each year for an Order of Merit Trophy run over the 12 main Singles Cup events of the season. It is a great tribute to the Competitions Committee and to Stuart Disney and the pro shop team, not forgetting as always Nola Russell’s invaluable support, that despite all the difficulties caused by the coronavirus situation, including a later start to the competitive season than normal, all 12 events were completed. An amazing total of 308 men competed in at least one of the events. The winner has to display a level of consistency throughout the season and has to cope with handicap reductions along the way. This year’s winner certainly did that and he was Jack Hayes, starting the season on six handicap and finishing on four, who amassed a fine 319 points.
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