Wells Voice July 2022

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July 2022 Issue 61

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Call to make more use of buses

Pop-up post office to reopen in July Branch will move from pet shop to the bus station ticket office on a temporary basis Turn to page 4

Cyclists join mass ride around Wells Wells on Wheels event hailed a success and could become annual fixture in calendar Turn to page 6

Public urged to send a message amid fears of further cuts THERE is growing alarm that Wells bus services, already hit by cuts that took effect in June, could be reduced even further in the autumn.

Bus campaigners are imploring the county council to protect bus services – and Continued on page 8

Tel: 01749 672029

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Win family tickets to magic show Ten family passes to be won for spellbinding summer holiday entertainment at Wookey Hole Turn to page 7

Audrey and Ted in their fancy dress outfits at the much-enjoyed Wells Jubilee Celebrations – report and pictures on pages 23-25

Heritage hunting Public asked to join search for forgotten sites and buildings Turn to page 12

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PRIORY.WELLSVOICE.SEPT2021.V.01.indd 1

22/09/2021 10:07

Can you be a fosterer to a cat in need?

If you love cats enough to want to help improve the lives of the homeless waifs and strays then Glastonbury and Wells Cats Protection want to hear from you.

We can usually rehome kittens quite quickly, but at the moment we have several older cats sitting in pens – like those on the right – watching the world go by but unable to take part in any of the activities so vital to the well-being and instincts of all healthy cats.

We urgently need more volunteer fosterers to care for these cats until a forever home can be found. It may take a few weeks, sometimes longer, and currently all our foster pens are occupied.

It means that we have no room for more cats at present.

Can you come to the rescue of these cats and, for now, give them the love and attention that they need?

We do have a code of practice that must be followed by fosterers designed to ensure the welfare of the cats in foster care, which essentially covers the kind of things all responsible cat owners do anyway.

It is possible to foster a cat in your home although there are guidelines to follow. Our charity can also provide specially designed outdoor pens which are the best way to foster cats but they are very expensive to install and we HAVE to be sure that any new fosterer is fully committed to fostering for the forseeable future before we can justify the expense.

We are a friendly branch and always busy but we do enjoy our work. You may just make some new friends, both human and feline, along the way!

If you feel that fostering a cat is for you, please contact Gill on 01749 850660 or Nikita on 07867 140339 or email either of us through our website www.cats.org.uk/glastonbury for more information.

Glastonbury and Wells Cats Protection. Reg Charity No: 203644 (England & Wales) and SCO37711 (Scotland)

wellsvoice

July 2022

3

n NEWS

Good causes benefit from boxing event

By Philip Welch A BOXING tournament raised more than £2,000 for three good causes – one in South Africa, one that helps Ukrainians and Heads Up in South Horrington.

The organisers were Wells Amateur Boxing Club and an audience of 300 packed the Captain Jack’s Suite at Wookey Hole Caves to watch the action.

The South African beneficiary will be the Overstrand Whale Boxing Club (OWBC) founded

by Mzi Damesi, a security guard at night who in the day started the club in a ramshackle old building.

He has managed to train his boxers to reach Commonwealth Games standards while winning championships with little or no money or transport, even having to walk 73 miles back from a tournament over two days as they could only afford transport one way.

Graham Kelly, one of the tournament’s organisers, explained: “Our Wells club is connected to the OWBC in South Africa through my work with Stonewood Builders who are helping sponsor and support the building of a new boxing club outside the Hermanus township to give a safe place for the young kids to train, shower and eat.”

They are working with the EMS Foundation in South Africa to achieve this. The foundation provides and supports sporting activities for disadvantaged children such as facilities and equipment.

EMS are trying to raise

Pictured at the tournament are, from left, coach Graham Kelly, Swan Hotel owner Kevin Newton, Bridget Harvey from Heads Up, boxer Morgan Picture: Caroline Welch Davies, boxer Jack Allen and coach Andy Lovell

‘Competitors and visitors commented on it being the best ABA boxing show they had ever been to’ £300,000 to build the new club in Hermanus, an area where young people are drawn into crime.

“Fellow coach Andy Lovell and I stay connected with Mzi via Facebook and WhatsApp, encouraging each other to get the new club built,” said Graham.

“The aim is that we as a club visit the OWBC while the building is underway and hopefully they get enough sponsors to visit here and train

with Wells ABC at some point.”

At the tournament, more than 70 boxers and coaches from

12 different clubs came for 14 bouts officiated by seven England Amateur Boxing Association referees, judges and timekeepers.

“The evening was fantastic with an electric atmosphere in a great iconic venue,” said Graham.

“This was the first ABA show here in over 10 years. We lost count of the number of times competitors and visitors commented on it being the best ABA boxing show they had ever been to.

“Also the Wookey Hole staff were great and welcomed us back with open arms.”

Bridget Harvey, manager of the Heads Up mental health charity, said: “We are deeply grateful for the support of the boxing club.”

Some of the funds are also going to help with the housing of Ukrainians in the Wells area. u Sport, page 45

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wellsvoice

July 2022

www.wellsvoice.co.uk CONTAC TS Editor and publisher Andy Vallis andy@wellsvoice.co.uk 07906 499655 01749 675157 Advertising sales@wellsvoice.co.uk 01749 675157 Editorial news@wellsvoice.co.uk 07906 499655 01749 675157

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

AUGUST 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 August issue please contact us by July 13.

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

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To advertise, contact Andy on 01749 675157

A new restaurant has opened in Sadler Street, Wells. BDW’s Bar and Grill offers burgers, hot dogs and wings. It is jointly owned by Dill Friend (right) and Richard Fairchild, and Dill explained that it takes its name from the initial letters of his Blue School friend Benjamin Daniel Witcombe, who died in a car accident in 2007. He asked Ben’s mum if she would mind his name being used in this way so that his memory lives on, and she gave her blessing. Richard said of the restaurant: ‘We are looking forward to welcoming everyone to our new venture in Wells. There is nothing like it in this part of Somerset so it brings something new to the food scene.’

Pop-up post office opening in July A POP-UP post office is to open in the ticket office at Wells Bus Station in Princes Road on Tuesday, July 5, at 1pm.

This is a temporary solution while the search for a permanent solution goes on to try to keep a post office in central Wells.

The post office branch at Natural Pets of Wells in Queen Street is due to close on Friday, July 1, at 5pm, following the resignation of Heather Derrick as Postmaster on health grounds.

The pet shop is not closing.

Wells City Council has been working with Post Office Ltd to maintain post office services, and is allowing them to use the space at the bus station free of charge until a permanent solution can be found.

The branch was temporarily located at Wells Bus Station for

eight months last year before it moved to the pet store.

The opening hours will be Monday to Friday, 9.30am12.30pm and 1pm-5pm; Saturday: 9.30am-12.30pm. This service will be provided by the Postmaster for Glastonbury.

Post Office Network Provision Lead, Antoinette Chitty, said: “We are pleased to announce that we have a temporary solution for Wells as we know how important a post office is to a community. There is also a post office in St Thomas Street to help serve the city.”

Post Office Ltd is advertising for a retailer in Wells to incorporate a Post Office Local into their existing or proposed business. The vacancy is advertised on www. runapostoffice.co.uk

Death announced of former Dean THE death has been announced of Richard Lewis, pictured right, who was Dean of Wells from 1990-2003. His funeral will take place in Wells Cathedral on Tuesday, June 28, at 2pm.

Email: sales@wellsvoice.co.uk

wellsvoice

July 2022

5

n NEWS

Gardeners asked to grow for Foodbank GARDENERS are being asked to grow fruit and veg this year for Wells Vineyard Foodbank.

Last year’s Foodbank Veg Patch Challenge saw people across Wells donating their fruit and veg gluts to the Foodbank.

This year, people are being asked to plant a little extra for the Foodbank as well.

Sue Marland, Senior Pastor of Wells Vineyard, said: “If you are planting fruit and veg crops this year, please think about growing a little more this year to share with Foodbank clients.

It makes such a difference to people’s parcels and with money tightening we could supply fresh produce in place of tinned.

Tinned fruit and vegetables are all slowly going up – for example tinned peaches at Morrisons were 31p last month and they have just increased to 50p, tinned carrots have increased from 20p to 29p.”

The number of local people

Gardeners can help the Foodbank relying on the Foodbank has dramatically increased over the last two years. In 2019, Wells Vineyard Foodbank distributed 9,000 meals, but in 2021, this had increased to more than 80,000 meals. Demand is expected to continue rising due to the cost-of-living crisis.

Sue Marland said: “Many people in the community are facing unprecedented financial hardship and we need to ensure there is enough food in our

stores to provide to everyone who needs it. We are teaming up with Let’s Do It Wells! to help get the message out to all local gardeners and allotment holders.

Even children might like to take part, by planting a container with beans or tomatoes. Even a small donation will help to make a big difference.”

If people are able to set aside additional space in their gardens and allotments, it would be helpful if they could contact the Foodbank and let them know what they are planning to grow.

Emails can be sent to info@ wellsvineyard.com or send a message via Facebook. Details of how to donate surplus fruit and vegetables will be provided closer to the time. All the information can also be found on the Let’s Do It Wells! website (letsdoitwells. com).

People who are not able to grow their own food can still make food donations

at Waitrose, Santander or Morrisons or directly to the Foodbank at the Wells Vineyard Church, Keward Mill Trading Estate, Jocelyn Drive, BA5 1DA. The opening hours for donations at the Foodbank are 10am-12.30pm on Wednesdays and Saturdays. Alternatively, cash donations can be made by scanning the QR code below; by bank transfer to Wells Vineyard Christian Fellowship’s HSBC account – sort code: 40-46-06, account number: 31387170, use ‘Foodbank’ as the reference; or cheques can be made out to ‘Wells Vineyard Church’.

Mendip Auction Rooms Recently sold:

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Email: news@wellsvoice.co.uk

wellsvoice

6

July 2022

n NEWS

Dozens join mass cycle through city DOZENS of cyclists took part in the first mass cycle through Wells on June 18. The route started in Silver Street and took participants on a loop around the city that included cycling down High Street.

The Wells on Wheels event was organised by Wells City Council, as part of its Wells Goes Green initiative, and Sustainable Wells.

Cyclists congregated at the Bandstand where they were able to add their names to a petition asking Somerset Highways and Somerset County Council to improve road safety in Wells and connections with nearby towns.

There was also a bike repairs and equipment stall run by Grand Tor Cycling of Shepton Mallet, and a display of electric

bikes and mopeds by EcoMove Bristol.

Mathilda Janicot of Sustainable Wells said: “We are so pleased by the turnout at the first Wells on Wheels event – we had just over 40 cyclists join the mass ride, even in the rain.

We also collected plenty of feedback from the community regarding areas of concern for cycling in Wells, which we will send to Somerset Highways. There will be updates on our progress on the Sustainable Wells website and socials.

“This success has inspired us to make Wells on Wheels an annual event – the organising team will take a couple of weeks’ break and then choose the date for next year – hopefully a sunnier one.”

ANTIQUES l

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A COMPREHENSIVE RANGE OF DECORATIVE ANTIQUES AND FINE ART SILVER, FURNITURE, PAINTINGS, CURIOS, CHINA, CLOCKS, JEWELLERY, GOLD BOUGHT & SOLD

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OPENING DAYS MONDAYS, WEDNESDAYS & SATURDAYS To advertise, contact Andy on 01749 675157

Top, cyclists ride down High Street; inset, massing ready for the start of the ride; and above, organisers at the registration desk

Account of caring for daughter A LOCAL woman has written a book about her experiences of caring for a disabled daughter.

Reflections of Grief: A Parent Carer Story is Lisa Reakes’ candid account of her daughter Poppy Garton’s brain injury due to a stroke; how she lived through the event; how it has affected her life, and how she has

tackled the resulting challenges.

The book is priced £10 and is available from Lisa by emailing lisareakes@mailbox.org or online at www.waterstones.com Proceeds will go towards the fundraiser to buy an Innowalk disabled cross trainer for Poppy, that featured in a story in Wells Voice last August.

The deadline for the August edition is July 13

Email: sales@wellsvoice.co.uk

wellsvoice

July 2022

7

n COMPETITION

Win family tickets to thrilling magic show A DAZZLING magic and illusion show is coming to Wookey Hole this summer – and ten lucky families can enjoy it for free courtesy of Wells Voice.

We have ten family tickets to Magique to be won in this month’s amazing competition.

Each ticket will allow entry for two adults and up to three children.

The show will be performed every Wednesday throughout the summer holidays, on July 27, August 3, August 10, August 17, August 24 and August 31.

The magic and illusion show from the Directors of Hocus Pocus and The Magic Circus will delight and confound the senses.

You won’t believe your eyes as a feast of dare-devil acts unfurls, with breathtaking displays of courage and co-ordination, and clever deceptions and sleights of hand.

The show is suitable for all the family, and to get you in

Magique will be performed every Wednesday of the summer holidays the mood, Wookey Hole will be serving American-style fast food in the restaurant from 6pm along with the Circus Bar open for the duration.

Doors open at 5.30pm, and

Got News? Call 07906 499655

the show – which is an hour long – starts at 6.30pm To be in with a chance of winning one of the ten family tickets, just answer this simple question: What is the name

of Wookey Hole’s magic and illusion show?

Email your answer to competition@wellsvoice.co.uk along with your name and the best email address or phone number on which you can be contacted.

The closing date for the competition is noon on Monday, July 11, 2022. Ten winning entries will be chosen at random after this date, and Wookey Hole will get in touch with the winners to book their show visit (the contact details will only be used for this purpose).

The names of the winners will be published in a future edition of Wells Voice.

If are not one of the lucky winners, you can still buy tickets to Magique online at www. wookey.co.uk/magique l Additional competition rules: One entry per household. No cash alternative. The competition organisers’ decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into.

Email: news@wellsvoice.co.uk

wellsvoice

8

July 2022

n NEWS

Fears about future of local bus services From page 1 urging the public to catch the bus wherever possible to show what a valued and important mode of transport it is.

“Buses across Somerset are under threat this autumn because the Government-funded Bus Recovery Grant comes to an end in September. We have already seen significant cuts by First Group’s Buses of Somerset affecting Yeovil, Taunton, Bridgwater and Wells and there is a serious risk of yet more cuts affecting the Wells area,” said Peter Travis, Co-Chair of the Somerset Bus Partnership.

Somerset Bus Partnership is a bus campaigning group with more than 130 representatives from across Somerset. It launched its own Bus Manifesto which called for more money to be spent on buses by Somerset County Council, and Mr Travis says this manifesto has been

Councillor Denise Denis and Peter Travis with copies of the Somerset Bus Partnership’s Bus Manifesto endorsed by two-thirds of all county councillors elected in May 2022.

He said: “We need to lobby our local county councillors to call on Somerset to protect our bus services from any more cuts.

Bus services in Somerset are

CAN YOU GIVE A CAT A HOME?

Introducing Poppy...

POPPY is hoping that a personal appeal to cat lovers will persuade some kind person to look past her age, 13 years and counting, and see her for the lively, healthy and playful lady she is.

She would love to be more active as well. She is finding life in a pen, with little to do but eat, sleep and watch the world go by, is boring and it doesn’t suit her personality at all.

Poppy is a confident cat who likes to get out and about.

She has a good appetite and is affectionate but also happy in her own company so not a needy cat.

She may live with an older, male cat who knows his place

but she doesn’t like dogs. A family with older children who would treat her with respect would be fine, but young children would be too much for her. Given the choice we think Poppy would prefer a quiet home as the only pet.

Phone Gill on 01749 850660 to know more about Poppy.

Glastonbury & Wells Cats Protection Email: gill@straymoggie.co.uk Telephone: 01749 850660 www.cats.org.uk/glastonbury

To advertise, contact Andy on 01749 675157

rated by bus users as the worst in the country and that’s largely down to a lack of financial support provided by Somerset County Council, which spends significantly less on buses per head of population than do comparable local transport authorities here in the South West. With a new administration in power in Somerset, we should be calling on them to spend money to protect our buses.”

Announcing a first Somerset Catch The Bus Week from September 3-11, he called on people in Wells to make an extra effort to go by bus that week.

He said: “We can all help by using buses whenever we can – that’s for the sake of those in Wells who depend on buses to get to work, school, hospital or the shops – often that’s the young, the old, the disabled and those who simply can’t afford to have a car. It’s also more likely to be women who have to rely on buses. For their sakes, we should ‘bus it’ more often, most especially during the Somerset Catch The Bus Week.”

City councillor Denise Denis met with Mr Travis in June to introduce herself as the Wells City Council representative to the Somerset Bus Partnership.

She said that it was a very useful meeting which helped to inform her of the areas of concern being flagged up by the Partnership of: funding cuts, loss of local bus routes, deficiencies in joined up transport services and the poor first impressions travellers have of Wells, arriving at the bus station. Cllr Denis agreed to provide a report to Wells City Council about these concerns.

Buses of Somerset say that the recent changes to bus routes and timetables in Somerset follow “an in-depth review of patronage and predicted changes

in demand following the Covid pandemic”. The changes mean that the 29 to Taunton now no longer serves Wells, and the 75 to Bridgwater no longer serves Wells during the day.

City councillor Jasmine Browne said: “We are likely to lose more buses later in the year.

I would urge people to catch the bus if we are to retain bus services in Wells. It really is a case of use it or lose it.”

She added that Wells needs a better bus station, and passengers need better, more accurate information on bus services, including up to date printed timetables and visual display units giving real-time information.

Somerset County Council put together a Bus Service Improvement Plan under the government’s ‘Bus Back Better’ initiative. A request for £163 million was submitted, but only £11.9 million of funding has been provided.

A county council spokesperson said: “We are always concerned to hear about the possibility of services being lost, but we remain committed to working in partnership with bus operators and the Somerset Bus Partnership on transforming bus services in the county and we are working to deliver our Bus Service Improvement Plan as a central part of this. So far we have been awarded indicative funding of approximately £11.9 million from the Government towards the plan and we will be sharing detail on how this money will be used shortly.

“Of course this was less than we had hoped for but to gain some perspective, some authorities received zero funding. We will continue to lobby for further funding and work towards improving bus services in Somerset.”

Book recounts Mendip’s bus history VINTAGE vehicle historian John Hitchings launched his new book, Buses Over Mendip, in Wells on June 5 as part of the Wells Jubilee Celebrations.

The book charts the history of bus services in the Mendip area.

It sells for £15. A limited number of copies are available at Wells & Mendip Museum, otherwise it can be bought by post with payment made via PayPal. Full details from jhitchingsbus@blueyonder.co.uk

Email: sales@wellsvoice.co.uk

wellsvoice

July 2022

9

n NEWS Decision made to close cafe THE Cheese Yard Cafe at West Horrington has closed its doors.

In a Facebook post in which she thanked customers, staff and suppliers, owner Lindsay Davis said: “It’s not been an easy decision to make and I’ve spent hours of sleepless nights trying to decide but I have a new baby grandson due soon and I can’t wait to meet him and spend more time with my other grandchildren both here and across the Pond.”

The business is to become Cheese Yard Catering Co, providing outside catering and Sunday lunch takeaways from a different venue. More details will be announced soon.

Board game nights Wells photographer Brendan Doyle LRPS took this beautiful image of the Strawberry supermoon as a backdrop to Glastonbury Tor on June 13. A supermoon occurs when the moon’s orbit is closest to Earth, so it appears larger and brighter than normal – and this time of year is strawberry season.

WELLS Board Game Group will meet at The Quarter Jack, Priory Road, Wells, on Wednesday, July 13, and Wednesday, July 27, from 7pm-9.30pm.

Food and wine at Chamber event WELLS Chamber of Commerce and Tourism is holding a special kickstart event in July.

Representatives from every business in Wells are invited to attend the event to see what the newly reinvigorated Chamber has to offer. It will take place in Wells Town Hall at 6.30pm on Monday, July 4 – American Independence Day – and as well as hearing more about the Chamber, those who attend will be treated to some American food and a glass of wine. The

chamber’s new Chairman, SeanThe Wells Chamber of Commerce and Tourism comprises of a friendly Sloan, said: “Businesses in Wells and energetic group of businesspeople passionate about promoting the have seen some tough times in the last year and there are evenbeautiful city of Wells, working together on common issues and to raise business profile of the Wells more challenging times ahead.

The Wellsthe Chamber Commerce Tourism community. comprises of acomprises friendly The WellsofChamber ofand Commerce and Tourism This is why it is important and energetic group of businesspeople passionate promoting the of a friendly and energetic group about of businesspeople to have a strong and useful of Wells, working on common issues and of to Wells, raise by Now beautiful is a verycity important time fortogether businesses that have been affected passionate about promoting the beautiful city Chamber of Commerce in the The Wells Chamber of Commerce and Tourism comprises of a friendly business community. the profile of the Wells working together onmonths commonwe issues andconcentrating to raise the on Covid and lockdowns.

In the coming will be and energetic group of businesspeople passionate about promoting the city to help businesses bolster profile of the Wells business community. recruiting newcity businesses withtogether a focusonon networking. beautiful of Wells, working common issues and to raise themselves for the times ahead.”

Now is a very importantthe time for of businesses that have been affected by community. the Wells People who wish to attend are Now is a veryprofile important timebusiness for businesses that have Covid and lockdowns. In the coming months we will be concentrating on asked to send an email to sean@ We been affected

by Covid and lockdowns.

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Now is anew verybusinesses important fora businesses that have been affected enosisevents.com to give an months we will betime concentrating on recruiting new by findand new ways toIndo business in these changing lockdowns. the coming months we will be concentrating on indication of how many people endeavour toCovid businesses with a focus on networking. times. recruitinglikeminded new businesses with together a focus onto networking.

We believe in bringing people talk in an need to be catered for. believe in bringing likeminded people together endeavour We to find new ways to do business in these changing times.to in bringing to likeminded together to talk in anin talkWe inbelieve an endeavour findusnew ways to do business Join atpeople our next meeting endeavour to find new wayschanging to do business in these changing times. these times.

About The Event About The Event

Repair Cafe fixers ready to mend WHAT do soft toys, power tools and hi-fi have in common?

Answer: They were all mended at the Sustainable Wells Repair Cafe held on May 15 as part of the nationwide Big Fix 2022. The organisers were delighted that the event was busier than the one held in April.

The Repair Cafe will be opening its doors again between 10am and 12.30pm on Saturday, July 9, at St Thomas’ Church Hall. People with broken items are invited to bring them along and the team of fixers will do

their absolute best to give them a new lease of life.

The cafe itself offers drinks, homemade cakes and the chance to chat to friends.

The Repair Cafe is always happy to welcome new volunteer fixers or helpers. Anyone who would like to join the team or has any questions about the Repair Cafe should contact Amanda Phillips (avjphillips@gmail.com or 07522 193788).

Looking ahead, the next Repair Cafe will be held on Saturday, September 3.

Got News? Call 07906 499655

Contact Contact Contact Contact

About The Event

Join us at our next4th meeting Date Monday July Join at our our next meeting Join ususat next meeting Time 6pm Date Monday 4th July

Location WellsMonday Town Hall Time Date 6pm Date 4th July Monday 4th July Time 6pm Time 6pm Location Wells Town Hall

Location Wells TownTown Hall Hall American themed buffet Location Wells

American themed buffet American American themed buffet themed buffet Sign up on EventBrite

Sign up onon Eventbrite Sign upSign on EventBrite up EventBrite Sean Sloan SeanSloan Sloan Sean Sean Sloan 01749 681395 01749 01749681395 681395 01749 681395

www.wellschamberofcommerce.co.uk

www.wellschamberofcommerce.co.uk www.wellschamberofcommerce.co.uk www.wellschamberofcommerce.co.uk info@wellschamberofcommerce.co.uk

info@wellschamberofcommerce.co.uk info@ wellschamberofcommerce.co.uk

info@wellschamberofcommerce.co.uk

Email: news@wellsvoice.co.uk

wellsvoice

10

July 2022

n NEWS

Charity abseilers raise more than £50k ABSEILERS who plunged 124ft from the North-West Tower of Wells Cathedral have raised more than £50,000 for charity.

With more sponsorship still to come in, the total collected so far is over £53,000 that will be going to SOS Africa, Wells Cathedral and The Forever Friends Appeal – RUH Bath.

In total, 320 Jubilee Jumpers completed the abseil across two weekends in front of large, cheering crowds celebrating the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee.

In addition to supporting vital services provided by RUH Bath and funding the upkeep of Wells Cathedral, the majority of the funds will be invested in a fifth SOS Africa education programme which will support many disadvantaged children from the townships of South Africa from January 2023.

Dr Matt Crowcombe, founder and CEO of SOS Africa, said: “Since the final abseiler touched

Two of the Cooper and Tanner team about to make the descent, and a picture by Jason Bryant of Richard Long abseiling as the Queen safely down at the base of the North-West Tower, we have been inundated with messages saying how proud they feel after completing the challenge and raising so much for our causes.

They also cannot wait for our next charity event which will take place at a new iconic venue in the South West in the autumn of next year.

“Special mention goes

to Cooper and Tanner, The Browning Family and Chubb Bulleid who top our fundraising table, the former having raised nearly £2,800 throughout the event. We are also incredibly proud of 13-year-old Sam Jones who raised £1,000 singlehandedly, the most raised by an individual at the event.

“We would like to thank our abseil instructors Aardvark Endeavours, Wells Cathedral staff, the SOS Africa volunteers, Wells Rotary Club, our fearless fundraisers and their 2,350 generous sponsors for their incredible support throughout the event.

“We cannot wait to show them the life-changing impact their bravery and generosity will make to children in desperate need of our support.”

For more information about SOS Africa, visit: www.sosafrica. com or drop into the charity shop on Shepton Mallet High Street.

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wellsvoice

July 2022

11

n NEWS

Harriers play big role on road to recovery A MAN who was at one time unable to walk because of a severe medical condition has credited running group Wells City Harriers with helping to get his life back on track – and supporting him as he went on to break a running world record.

John Reynolds has now written a book, Angel On My Shoulder, that tells the remarkable story of how he overcame his physical and mental demons.

In 2004, he was diagnosed with a thyroid condition that left him with seizures and unable to walk. After undergoing radiotherapy, he set himself the challenge of walking to the end of his garden, and realised that the key to regaining his strength was being able to walk further each day than the previous one.

Not content with walking, he took up running, and went from entering his first half marathon in Midsomer Norton to setting the Guinness World Record for the number of miles run in one week, covering a distance of 426 miles in six days, eight hours and ten minutes. His course took in Bath, Corston, Keynsham, Radstock, Bristol, Welton, Chew Stoke, East and West Harptree, Priddy, Wookey, Wells, Shepton Mallet and Oakhill.

“I joined Wells City Harriers in 2007, it was the first running group I ever belonged to,” said John, who lives in Radstock.

“I would run with them up to three times a week. I am now a lifetime member.

“Many of the runners supported and encouraged me on my record breaking runs and

John Reynolds with a copy of his book, and pictured out running

throughout my running career, many have become lifelong friends.

“Most of my training runs were in and around Wells and all my major runs incorporated Wells in them somewhere. It was always a special sight when I would see Penn Hill mast lit up at night as I knew I was nearly home.”

While he was receiving radiotherapy treatment for the thyroid problem at the Royal United Hospital in Bath, John saw sick children having the same treatment.

Inspired by their bravery, he began to raise money for Children’s Hospice South West, and has now raised more than £50,000. In recognition of his fundraising, he was chosen to carry the Olympic torch through Frome in 2012.

Angel On My Shoulder is published by Bristol Books, priced £12. The book launch was due to take place on June 25 at The White Post Inn at Radstock, where his record-breaking run began.

Lions club gives £400 to project that helps tackle homelessness CITY of Wells Lions Club has donated £400 to the Connect Centre’s project Connected Housing First that helps tackle homelessness.

Rachel Inman, Housing First Lead Worker, with her team aims to support individuals from a life of rough sleeping to maintaining their own properties and leading meaningful lives in Wells and the surrounding areas.

Rachel describes the Connected Housing First Project as providing “long-term, openended support for residents’ ongoing needs”. Thus, those who have experienced sometimes many years of homelessness are empowered through a comprehensive pathway that recognises individual needs in the retention of their own tenancies, both in social housing and the private sector.

Alan Sanderson, President of City of Wells Lions Club, has said that all members of the club can appreciate the huge benefit that this project brings to stopping homelessness being a “revolving door”. The work undertaken at Connected Housing First

Alan Sanderson hands a cheque to Rachel Inman addresses the multiple issues experienced by rough sleepers through the education and leisure opportunities available at the Connect Centre and the one-to-one aspect of interaction, which gives each individual time and space to make choices about their futures.

Connected Housing First has also developed partnership working with the police, local GPs, health centres, social workers and other important services that, through the creation of these links, can ensure that the complex needs of homeless people can be met.

Got News? Call 07906 499655

Almshouses Open Day Saturday 23 July 11am – 4pm Free entry Beautiful gardens and medieval buildings to visit as well as the Guild room and ancient chapel.

Ploughman’s lunches and home-made cakes and puddings available.

Popular Jazz band playing between 1.30pm and 3pm We are at the back of St Cuthbert’s Church and on Priest Row

Email: news@wellsvoice.co.uk

wellsvoice

12

July 2022

n NEWS

‘Help us find hidden heritage treasures’

A SEARCH has begun for any overlooked and neglected historical sites and ancient buildings in the St Cuthbert Out parish.

Celia Wride and Lisa Pool are embarking on a heritage audit in the parish to safeguard these hidden gems and look into obtaining funding to restore them if necessary. They are asking residents to contact them with details of anything that should be brought to their attention.

St Cuthbert Out is the largest parish in England, and incorporates a number of villages which surround Wells: Coxley, Polsham, Launcherley, Haybridge, Burcott, Easton, Wookey Hole, South Horrington,

small buildings that may have been used as overnight lockups, gate posts, wells, water pumps, war memorials that may have become overgrown? Ancient stiles, pieces of writing on the outside walls of houses like in Ash Lane, Wells? We would be interested to hear about them.”

A report on the heritage features will eventually go to a full council meeting of St Cuthbert Out Parish Council to decide what steps to take next.

To pass on information about heritage features, email stcuthbertout.heritagelist@ gmail.com. Contributors are asked to send photographs as well if possible to help assess their importance and identify the location.

The pillbox at Constitution Hill between Wells and Dulcote East Horrington, West Horrington, Dinder, Dulcote, Masbury and Green Ore. “We are asking all those who have lived in the city and outlying settlements for many

years or since childhood, if they are aware of any hidden treasures,” said Celia. “We know of the pillboxes at Dulcote and Dinder and the tank traps, but do people know of interesting

Somerset place names to be topic of light-hearted talk THE place names of Somerset range from the poetic, Wyke Champflower, Hornblotton or Huish Episcopi, to the more down to earth sounding, such as Wookey, Sock Dennis and Chard.

Anyone who has ever wondered where these names came from might like to join countryside charity CPRE Somerset for a relaxed and informative evening at Wells & Mendip Museum on Thursday, June 30, at 7pm for 7.30pm. Speaker Tony Painter will provide a lighthearted illustrated talk on The Fascination of Place Names.

Tony’s family originates from Wiltshire and Somerset and he

Somerset place names will be the topic of a talk in Wells on June 30 spent some 30 years with the MoD as a Map Research Officer.

Since retirement he writes historical notes for the Alan Godfrey map series, and his work

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on these maps has spawned the interest in local names. Tony will cover some general principles of place names, ranging from towns and villages down to streets and pubs, highlighting the historic insight they provide into a past way of life.

Refreshments will be available and there will be access to the beautiful walled garden at the museum. A raffle will be held, with any contributions of raffle prizes greatly appreciated. All proceeds go to CPRE Somerset’s work for the Somerset countryside.

All are welcome. Suggested donation of £4 for CPRE members, £6 for non-members.

Tickets can be booked via CPRE Somerset’s website www. cpresomerset.org.uk or pay on the door.

Photo competition CPRE Somerset is looking for photos that capture happy days out and about in the Somerset countryside for its annual photo competition. There are two prizes of £100 each – one for adults and one for under 18s.

Images can be taken in the last two years. Entries should be emailed as an attachment to admin@cpresomerset.org.uk by midnight on August 31. More at www.cpresomerset.org.uk

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wellsvoice

July 2022

13

n NEWS Busy month for St John unit

Hilary Shergold at the ceremony with her award

Teacher wins lifetime achievement award A TEACHER who taught at Wells Blue School for 43 years has won a lifetime achievement award for her services to teaching.

Hilary Shergold was announced as winner of the award at the glittering Tes (Times Educational Supplement) Schools Awards ceremony at the Grosvenor Park Hotel in London on June 17.

Sam Twiselton, judge and director of Sheffield Institute of Education, said: “There is such a mix of different ways she’s contributed over a long career, with a massive commitment to different curriculum areas and the school community, as well as the community beyond the school, in a way that is really heartwarming.”

Hilary was put forward for the award by Millfield school, where she is now a Business Studies teacher at the age of 70.

“It was amazing that they nominated me and amazing that I got it. I’m very honoured,” she said.

“I was going up on the coach saying ‘it won’t be me, it’s been headmasters for the last two nominations, they’re not going to choose someone like myself’.

“It’s nice that someone who is just a teacher gets acknowledged and honoured for putting all that work and effort in.”

Hilary lives in Croscombe, where she moved with her late husband John when he took up the post of Prison Governor at Shepton Mallet Prison. She started out as an English teacher

aged 23 at Rednock School in Dursley, before moving to Ansford School in Castle Cary, and then joining the Blue School.

By the 1980s, she was teaching English, Business and Computing, and offering A-level English to prisoners at Leyhill Prison as well as working with the RSA and with a government committee to structure the first NVQs which she then introduced to The Blue, the first school in the country to offer NVQ qualifications.

At The Blue, she set up a school bookshop to create a demand for reading, and later, spotting the need for vocational courses, created a Business department. She retired from the school last summer, but a few weeks later joined Millfield, which was looking for a Business teacher for one term; she signed up and has stayed.

Steve Jackson, a former Head of The Blue School, said: “Hilary made an incredible difference to the outcomes for generations of students. The establishment of an exceptionally wide and relevant range of vocational courses together with consistently outstanding results – a headteacher’s dream.”

Millfield Deputy Head, Alex Haydon, said: “Hilary is a shining example of a true teacher and everyone who has had the pleasure of working with her has learnt greatly from her knowledge and experience. We are thrilled that she has received this recognition.”

Got News? Call 07906 499655

THE last month has seen the City of Wells Unit of St John Ambulance (SJA) very active in the local community.

The unit ran a number of free sessions on how to carry out CPR and how to use a defibrillator (AED).

Over the Jubilee bank holiday it provided first aid at a number of local events culminating in the Wells Jubilee event on Sunday, June 5. As well as providing first aid, demonstrations were given of CPR and AED use, and mascot Bertie the Badger abseiled down the Cathedral’s North-West Tower.

On Thursday, July 21, the unit will be providing free twohour sessions covering adult, child and baby resuscitation plus how to deal with bleeding and choking. To register for a session, visit the SJA Wells Facebook page or the Wells Community Noticeboard page.

St John Ambulance mascot Bertie the Badger abseiling down the Cathedral tower

Cantabile Ladies Choir

21st Birthday Celebration Concert

Monday 4th July St Thomas Church, Wells, 8pm Guest Soloist Jess Michelmore

Musical Director Tracey Hansford Accompanist Shelley Prior Drums Steve Jobbins

Tickets £12 to include a glass of fizz and a programme Under 12s free Tickets on the door or from Jane Savery 01749 670527 or from Cadeaux & Co

Email: news@wellsvoice.co.uk

wellsvoice

14

July 2022

n NEWS

Sir John Major to make guest appearance SIR John Major is to be guest of honour at a 30th anniversary celebration for Wells Festival of Literature.

The former Prime Minister will join supporters and friends of the Festival at a special evening on Monday, July 4, to mark 30 years since the very first Festival of Literature took place in Wells.

1992 was also a momentous and memorable year for the then Prime Minister who held his first General Election in the role. Despite polls which put Neil Kinnock and Labour consistently in the lead, Sir John confounded the pollsters with an election win in which the Conservatives received the highest number of popular votes in history, a record that has yet to be beaten.

As Prime Minister from 1990 to 1997, he oversaw Britain’s longest period of continuous

Guest of honour Sir John Major economic growth, and the beginning of the Northern Ireland Peace Process.

Festival organisers are delighted that Sir John has agreed to join them at the

exclusive event for Festival Friends and sponsors. Referring to his book, My Old Man, Sir John will discuss the history of Music Hall, and the many characters who made it famous.

This will be followed by an audience Q&A. The event takes place in July, three months before the anniversary itself begins, and will serve as a thank you to all the many friends and sponsors who continue to support the Festival, allowing it to thrive and grow over the years, providing nine days of challenging and entertaining events while at the same time offering financial support to a wide range of educational projects in the local area.

The Festival this year will run from October 14-22 during which the anniversary celebration theme will continue:

Michael Morpurgo, marking 40 years since War Horse was published, will be talking about that best-seller and his latest work; Max Hastings, with Abyss, looks back 60 years to the Cuban missile crisis; in the centenary of the death of the great Sir Ernest Shackleton, one of today’s best-known explorers, Benedict Allen, explains his own Quest for Adventure and the Great Unknown; and Royal insider Robert Lacey celebrates Her Majesty’s Jubilee.

There is still time to become a Friend and/or a Sponsor – and receive an invitation to the special pre-Festival event.

To find out more, go to the ‘Support Us’ page on the website (wellsfestivalofliterature.org.uk), send an email to admin@ wellsfestivalofliterature.org.uk or call 0300 201 0211 and leave a message.

Cathedral packed for Anne Frank writing awards ceremony THE Somerset Anne Frank Creative Writing Awards Ceremony took place at Wells Cathedral on May 24.

The Cathedral was filled with aspiring young writers who had taken inspiration from a quote from Anne Frank’s dairy “I keep to my ideals, because in spite of everything I still believe that people are really good at heart”.

Nine- to 18-year-olds from across Somerset, Bath and North East Somerset submitted poetry, prose, diary entries or a short story with a maximum of 500

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Gabriel Todesco-Bond reads aloud Picture: Rebecca Cunningham

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winning entries and those in first place in each age category got an opportunity to read out their work.

Annie Maw, HM LordLieutenant of Somerset, Patron of the Somerset Anne Frank Youth Awards (SAFYA), took part in celebrating the achievements of Somerset’s young writers.

Leonard Daniels MBE, Chairman of SAFYA, closed the event with an insightful reminder of why the work of Anne Frank and other young people who

oppose discrimination and bullying, support others and work towards peace and social inclusion is still so important today.

Wells Blue School student Gabriel Todesco-Bond won the overall prize for the best poetry and read his poem to a captivated audience of young people, teachers and families.

The overall prize for prose was awarded to Eva Vincent.

For further information about SAFYA, visit the website www. safya.org.uk

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Wells Quakers meet for worship on the second and fourth Thursday each month in the ground floor Council room, Wells Town Hall, Wells, Somerset BA5 2RB. All are welcome to join us.

Doors open 1.30pm, Meeting for Worship is between 1.45pm and 2.30pm, followed by refreshments, a chance to ask questions and to get to know each other. We are part of Street Quaker Meeting, which meets Sundays at 10.30am.

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wellsvoice

July 2022

15

n NEWS

Wells entrepreneur a finalist in Digital Women Awards A WELLS woman has been nominated for a national award in recognition of her digital expertise.

Rebecca Bailey is one of 17 finalists for the Digital Women: Digital Entrepreneur of the Year 2022 award.

The Digital Women Awards takes place every year to celebrate the work women are doing in the digital arena. The Digital Women Entrepreneur of The Year Award recognises and celebrates women who are operating a business or businesses, taking on greater than normal risks in order to do so in the digital space.

Rebecca’s marketing consultancy agency, Bailey Marketing, was born in 2018 as a social media marketing agency when she was just 21.

“Since then, despite the pandemic and the economic challenges, Bailey Marketing has established itself not only as a busy social media marketing

Entrepreneur Rebecca Bailey platform, but a business management agency, website development and management agency,” said Rebecca, a former Wells Blue School student.

“I have been the admin, sales, accounts, and marketing guru all in one. Being a one-woman band, I have managed to not only grow Bailey Marketing from a business start-up but have continued to develop its delivery, supporting over 35 clients ranging from small independents to multimillion-pound accounts.”

Her secret, she said, is that she is “a self-declared workaholic who is driven by my passion for the industry and seeking out the best for my clients”.

Rebecca has also launched another project called We Are Visit, developed during the pandemic to keep small independents doors open. Its success has generated We Are Visit into a UK-wide tourist information centre, and has created job opportunities for women who want to work in marketing, design, and photography.

The Digital Women Awards winners will be announced at an awards ceremony at The Ivy Tower, Tower Bridge, London, on October 14.

Call to lovers of flower arranging A CALL has gone out to all those who love arranging flowers to take part in the Flower Festival that is being held in St Cuthbert’s Church from August 19-21.

The theme is To Everything There is a Season. It is a chance for people to use their imagination and creativity or simply create a small display and let the flowers speak for themselves.

Organisers look forward to welcoming visitors to the church for the event.

There is no entry charge but donations for local charity Heads Up and the church will be appreciated.

For further details, contact Maggie by phone or text, 07579 006258, or Suzy, 07966 654307.

View every edition online at issuu.com/wellsvoice

Free defibrillator training evening A FREE defibrillator training evening will be held on Wednesday, July 6, at 5.30pm, and is available to everyone.

The free training and information session takes place at Tincknell Fuels, Cathedral View Offices, Wookey Hole Road, Wells.

Kim Davey from the South Western Ambulance Service will be providing life-saving information and answering any questions.

To find out more, call Jemma on 01749 683955 or email jemma.flamsteed@tincknells. com

The defibrillator at the entrance to Cathedral View Offices Tincknell’s community defibrillator on the wall outside Cathedral View Offices allows continuous access in the event of an emergency.

Collection of phones continues CITY of Wells Lions have given a big thank you to everyone who has left their unwanted mobile phones in reception at Wells Town Hall.

Lions have collected approximately 200 for recycling since the project started to provide funds donated to

the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance (DSAA).

The secure box for the collection is still in the Town Hall reception. Any unwanted mobile phones can be left there to support the DSAA and help save the planet with recovery of rare components and elements.

Got News? Call 07906 499655

Email: news@wellsvoice.co.uk

wellsvoice

16

July 2022

n ON THE BEAT

Project tackling violence against women and girls FOR this month’s article from the Wells Neighbourhood Policing Team, I want to talk about a project I am leading on in our area of Somerset East (stretching from Frome down to Chard) which is about tackling and preventing violence against women and girls, also known as ‘VAWG’. VAWG is a term used to describe offences which disproportionately affect women and girls, and these include offences such as stalking, harassment, sexual offences and controlling and coercive behaviour; it cannot ever be acceptable that these incidents are seen as ‘commonplace’.

Whilst it is important to

‘Our aim is for us to all live in an environment where women and girls are safe and feel safe to pursue their lives free of fear and harassment’

say that we in Wells live in a relatively safe area in our force, this work spreads nationwide and is important to raise awareness and prevent women and girls becoming victims of VAWG-related crimes.

Our aim is for us to all live in an environment where women and girls are safe and feel safe to pursue their lives free of fear and harassment, and have the confidence that when they report an incident to the police it is taken seriously and fully investigated.

We have various pieces of work ongoing and planned. One of which is placement of movable CCTV cameras which will be put in hotspot areas with signage to help prevent incidents occurring in the first place, and it can also be used as evidence to help bring perpetrators to justice.

The ‘Bannervan’ has already been out to Yeovil to raise awareness and give personal safety advice to the community and hopefully this will be seen in the Mendips in the future, so please keep an eye out on our social media pages for this.

There are also plans to deliver age-appropriate inputs in schools and colleges to raise awareness, encourage confidence in reporting to the police and support services, and empower young people to identify and

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News from the local policing team with PCSO Supervisor Hannah Hyde ‘call out’ behaviour which is unacceptable amongst peers.

In the future we are also planning to work with our licensed premises to promote awareness and work in partnership to help people be and feel safe when enjoying a night out.

This is just some of the actions, and this is being constantly reviewed between the police leads for the different Somerset areas and also speaking to local partner agencies and our critical friends to ensure we can adapt to the needs of the communities we serve.

Is there something you can do to help? There is a nationwide tool we have available to us as on the police.uk website called ‘StreetSafe’. This is not a reporting tool, but is an online service which allows anyone to tell the police anonymously any area they feel or have felt unsafe

and why. For example, was it due to an environmental factor such as a lack of street lighting or overgrown vegetation, or behavioural such as verbal abuse or being followed?

This data is accessible by the local police who can then review the areas raised to see if improvements can be made alongside other local authorities.

This information also has the potential to highlight areas of concern that may otherwise not get the attention they need.

Therefore I encourage that if you or another have ever felt unsafe in a local area, please use this tool to help us tackle any of these areas locally to help the community be and feel safe, especially women and girls.

As mentioned previously, I am constantly reviewing this work, and so if you have any thoughts about how we can help further or have any concerns you would like to discuss please don’t hesitate to get in contact with me at Hannah.Hyde@ avonandsomerset.police.uk. If you need any support or would like more information about VAWG, please see services below. n ‘StreetSafe’ Service – www. police.co.uk/streetsafe (or put ‘StreetSafe’ into a search engine). n The Nelson Trust – https:// nelsontrust.com/ – Support for women in the community who are in contact with the criminal justice system. n SIDAS – Somerset Integrated Domestic Abuse Service – Helpline 0800 6949 999 or email ParagonSIDAS@ theyoutrust.org.uk n The ‘Enough’ Campaign – Further information, support and advice around VAWG – www.enough.campaign.gov.uk

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For Prices and Bookings contact the Town Hall Manager- Tel: 01749 673091. e-mail: thm@wells.gov.uk Website: www.wells.gov.uk

Email: sales@wellsvoice.co.uk

wellsvoice

July 2022

17

n NEWS

Curtain-raiser for this year’s theatre festival THE 2022 Wells Theatre Festival held its official launch event on June 16 at Sante Wines, Wells, attended by the new Mayor, Councillor Stewart Cursley and Mayoress June Cursley.

The Festival, which runs from July 7-10, will bring 19 productions by theatre companies from across the country to venues all over Wells with everything from children’s theatre and improvised comedy to drama.

The Festival’s Community Theatre Company will also present a modern-day production of Shakespeare’s comedy Twelfth Night. This lively and innovative version of Shakespeare’s comedy of mistaken identity is set at the seaside and features a soft top motor car and a motorbike.

Wells local Lee Housley, who plays Duke Orsino, has had to learn to ride a motorbike especially for the part. As usual the production will be performed in front of the Cathedral.

One of many highlights of the Festival which returns after a two-year hiatus is a new musical version of Frances Hodgson Burnett’s classic children’s story, The Secret Garden, at Cedars Hall with music by Wells composer Theresa Barlow.

Three local child actors will take the lead parts this year: Cecily Robinson as Mary, Oliver Jenkins as Colin and Noah Jennett-Butcher as Dickon.

Katherine Mount, Artistic Director, said: “The Secret Garden is one of our very favourites. It’s beautiful,

Wells Mayor and Mayoress Stewart and June Cursley at the launch event with Wells Theatre Fetival representatives including Artistic Director Ros Johnson, second right, and Associate Director Neil Johnson, right

the signer moves seamlessly around the stage as they bring the dialogue to life for a deaf audience. Katherine said: “Even if you are not a BSL user yourself this is a sight to behold, it adds an extra layer of expression to the stage that the whole audience can access and enjoy.”

The Wells Theatre Festival also welcomes the return of Imogen Stubbs and Jonathan Guy Lewis, this time with a staged rehearsed reading of Alan Ayckbourn’s hilarious comedy Absent Friends in The Drama Barn in Market Street. Joining Imogen and Jonathan in the cast is former ‘Bond Girl’ Serena Gordon.

For more information and to book tickets, go to www. wellstheatrefestival.org Tickets can also be booked in person at Collectively Made, 1 Union Street.

emotive, evocative of days gone by and full of childhood magic. We have performed this previously in London, Surrey and Dorset, and it has a truly universal appeal with audiences ranging from two years old to senior citizens.

“It’s still very much a story for our times, reminding us of the healing power of nature, animals and human connection, something that the pandemic brought very much to the forefront of consciousness for many of us.”

There will also be a British Sign Language (BSL) interpretive performance on the evening of Friday, July 8. This means that

Motorcycle trainer Den Fowler with Lee Housley who will play the Duke Orsino in Twelfth Night astride the motorcycle lent by Branson’s Motorcycles of Yeovil

Got News? Call 07906 499655

Email: news@wellsvoice.co.uk

wellsvoice

18

July 2022

n NEWS

Action plan drawn up to tackle issues of concern at Cathedral

WELLS Cathedral Chapter has published an Action Plan to address issues raised in a report by the Social Care Institute for Excellence (SCIE).

The SCIE published the report in May following a safeguarding audit of Wells Cathedral in February. The audit involved reviewing documentation and case files and talking to people at the heart of safeguarding in the Cathedral.

The final report recognised areas of good practice, but also highlighted the concerns of some staff and volunteers about aspects of the culture and management of the Cathedral.

In an article on the Cathedral website, Chapter, the governing body of Wells Cathedral, says: “In the full report, you will see the good practice, and the strengths in what we do, but also the areas of concern.

Members of the Chapter have been very saddened to learn of some of the feelings expressed and deeply sorry to hear of the

unhappiness and anxiety felt.

We have committed to listen and learn, and to take the concerns extremely seriously.”

In examples of good practice noted by the auditors, they judged that there is a range of safely managed provision for children at Wells Cathedral; that there is a clear ethos of recognising potential vulnerabilities of adults who may visit the Cathedral and that systems are in place to support them; and that the good working relationship between the Cathedral and the Cathedral School is an area of strength which supports safeguarding of the choristers.

But among less positive aspects of Cathedral life, the audit report states that currently, relationships between the virger team and the senior staff are strained. It says: “Virgers described relationships with the Dean as difficult because of standards which appear unattainable. They described it

Disquiet with life in Vicars’ Close THE auditors say they heard a lot of anger about the impact of living on Vicars’ Close.

In the report, they state: “The houses are within sight of the Cathedral; convenient but liable to make one feel that one is never ‘off duty’ if one is in residence.

To the auditors, it sounded uncomfortably close to being a closed community. The auditors heard that the houses are typically cold and damp inside and that, while the Cathedral provides the repairs required of a landlord, such is the maintenance budget, that anything above a basic specification must be funded at the occupant’s expense.”

They also say: “It is also the type of community that can easily split into subcultures which leave some on the outside.”

They conclude that is hard to envisage a viable solution

to the issue of Vicars’ Close, but “that it might be possible to create, over time, a more mixed economy where staff houses were interspersed with privately rented houses whose occupants had no professional connection with the Cathedral”.

In its Action Plan, the Cathedral Chapter says it will consider the issue of Vicars’ Close and whether it might be possible for staff to live ‘away from the job’.

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Anti-terrorism flaws highlighted THE SCIE report says auditors judged that Wells Cathedral has not been as pro-active as many other cathedrals regarding antiterrorism.

It says: “The west front is vulnerable and open to a large vehicle or motorbike being driven close to the main door. Bollards are not always in place leaving an additional vulnerability.

Choristers have not practiced lockdown procedures and there is no plan in place for such an eventuality; for example, stored water, medi-packs or information for staff. Policies for unattended

bags/parcels, missing children or missing adults were not evident although thought to be in place.”

In response, the Cathedral Chapter says initial anti-terrorism training had begun before the pandemic, and it says: “There is new training issued by PREVENT which will be cascaded to staff and volunteers. The Clerk of the Works and the Head Virger will work together to put in place measures to protect the Cathedral and those within it, post training.

The measures will be tested by an exercise being planned with the Avon and Somerset Police.”

as not unusual for a Dean to be exacting but that there have been angry words about small things such as candles going out or light bulbs not working. The Dean, COO (Chief Operating Officer) and an activity leader described frustration with the virger team due to rooms for activities often not being set up, despite being part of the weekly plan.”

It reports concerns that “there is an underlying but very evident message that things must be completed in a certain way.

Where standards fall short or are different from that expected, staff and volunteers report that they are made to feel fear and unhappiness.”

It tells of comments that “being at the Cathedral was ‘the most unhappy time of my life’,” and of “a ‘power imbalance’, ‘misuse of power’, ‘treading on eggshells’ and ‘a feeling of heaviness’ when entering the Cathedral.”

The auditors judged that the safeguarding culture within Wells Cathedral is divided: “The safeguarding response… for choristers, and children and adults visiting the cathedral is strong.

“However, strategic and operational oversight of safeguarding of the Cathedral’s

own staff, and challenge of hyper critical or punitive practice, has been lacking.”

The Action Plan drawn up in response says that the Chapter has requested an independent review of leadership and culture at Wells Cathedral. Other planned measures include the recruitment of a fifth verger, the reintroduction of regular team meetings, the recruitment of an HR and Safeguarding Coordinator, and the convening of a Cathedral Safeguarding Panel that will become part of the governance of safeguarding.

The Cathedral has asked the Rt Rev Ruth Worsley, Acting Bishop of Bath and Wells, to liaise with SCIE and the Church of England National Safeguarding team and help to address the questions raised by the audit.

Bishop Ruth said: “While it is never easy to hear that there are aspects of our life together that fall short of the vision of God’s love and grace, reviews such as that provided by SCIE offer us vital truths and present us with opportunities to address concerns. It is clear that there are wounds to be healed but also that there is a commitment to a healing process and I will be doing all I can to support that.”

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20

July 2022

n NEWS

Wells Macmillan Cancer Support committee members display the amount raised during Mark Tobin’s association with the group, and the charity’s Senior Relationship Fundraising Manager Genevieve Drinkwater presents Mark with a rose plant to thank him for his work

Bowing out from charity role on a high TRIBUTES have been paid to Mark Tobin for all he has achieved during his time on the Wells Macmillan Cancer Support committee.

Mark stepped down in June after 27 years as a committee member, the last 15 as Chair.

During that time the committee has raised an amazing £476,000 for the charity.

At his last meeting – at the Swan Hotel in Wells, where Mark was General Manager for many years – Macmillan Cancer Support’s Senior Relationship Fundraising Manager, Genevieve Drinkwater, said that Mark was an inspirational figure.

Philip Welch presents Mark Tobin with an engraved glass vase She presented Mark with a rose plant as a token of thanks, and Philip Welch presented him

with a glass vase memento that had been engraved by 91-yearold Wells engraver Herbie Davies.

“From all of us at Macmillan and everyone affected by cancer, we would like to thank Mark for his dedicated and unfaltering commitment to the charity as a volunteer and ambassador,” said Genevieve.

“The Macmillan Nurse rose was presented to Mark as a token of our thanks and will hopefully be a reminder to him of how much of a difference he has made to the community of Wells, the people of Somerset, and beyond.”

Mark said: “It’s been an

honour and a privilege to represent such an important and valuable charity, and work with such a fantastic group of ladies and gents for the past 30 years.

“There will be changes, but it will continue to fly the Macmillan flag proudly in the Wells area.”

Mark now runs The Loft restaurant and bar in Street, that opened last November. n Anybody who would like to join the Wells Macmillan Cancer Support group that raises money to support local people with cancer can phone 01749 670977 or email nonrtat@yahoo.co.uk to find out more.

Night camping in Cathedral raises £2,800 for Ukraine Appeal FOR the first time ever, the Choristers of Wells Cathedral have stayed overnight in the 850-year-old building.

On May 27, 26 Choristers, accompanied by seven adults, camped out in the Cathedral to raise funds for UNICEF’S Ukraine Appeal and raised £2,870.25 (including Gift Aid).

Tents were pitched and sleeping bags rolled out on to the cold stone floor for the 14-hour overnight stay. Activities were laid on for the evening, including a sing-along, a film screening, and a craft session where the children could make their own sleep masks. After a long, uncomfortable night, everyone rose early for breakfast on the

Cathedral Green provided by the Ancient Gatehouse Hotel.

Jeremy Cole, Director of Music at the Cathedral, said: “As far as we know, this is the first time our Choristers have camped in the Cathedral overnight. It has been so exciting for the children and adults alike to spend the night under medieval stone vaulting, with the clock continuing to chime on the hour.

“We are immensely grateful to all who have supported the Choristers’ efforts via JustGiving, and we are thrilled to have raised such a lot for the Ukraine Appeal. It has not only been a terrific fundraiser, but also an incredible bonding experience for our Choristers.”

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Girl Choristers set up a tent

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July 2022

21

n NEWS

Exhibition established as cultural highlight FOR most of August, Wells Cathedral is once again hosting an exhibition of selected works from the Wells Art Contemporary (WAC) international open art competition chosen by an eminent panel of judges.

WAC was established in 2012 by a group of friends to help support artists in a time of austerity. A decade later, and with the aim as relevant as ever, it has attracted an impressive 3,280 entries in a range of mediums from 49 different countries.

This year, Bill Lloyd has also been welcomed to the team as Exhibition Director. Bill has been on a quest to help raise the cultural profile of the city and was integral to the opening of Cedars Hall, the world class performing arts venue in Wells.

He explains: ‘“I couldn’t turn down the opportunity to get involved with WAC. As a unique cultural partnership with the Cathedral, it is a thrilling prospect and a privilege to have been asked. The free exhibition is a highlight in the city’s cultural calendar. It joins the wealth of amazing festivals and events held annually that help to draw visitors to Wells and boost the local economy.”

After much deliberation from the judging panel, a shortlist of 123 works of art will be displayed in the dedicated gallery in the Cathedral cloisters.

In addition, there will be 29 site-specific installations studded throughout the Cathedral and its grounds. These were selected

Above, Anne Bennett’s computerised impression of her installation, Kaleidoscope, in situ in the Chapter House; below, Head Piece by Vivien Meadows, from Frome by the panel for their responses to the architectural, spatial and spiritual aspects of the medieval spaces.

“It is the installations that make this exhibition unlike any other, reinterpreting one of the greatest cathedrals in the world,” says Bill. “And you don’t have to be religious for it to be thoughtprovoking and relevant. With pieces from grand and inspiring to intriguing and quirky, I defy anyone to leave without connecting with at least one work of art.”

The WAC exhibition will run from July 30 until August 28. For more information, visit wellsartcontemporary.co.uk

2022 Prizes n Howden Art Award: £2,000 awarded to one artist. n NG Art Creative Residency: The prize winner will receive a free two-week placement at the NG Art Creative Residency in Eygalieres, Provence. n JGM Gallery Prize: The winner will be featured on the gallery’s website and social media channels. n Student Prize: £1,000 awarded to a current fine art student aged under 26 enrolled on a recognised Bachelor or Masters Fine Arts course.

Donated by Tracey Grace. n Young Printmakers Prize (under 35 years): £500 to young printmaker. Supported by Nana Shiomi. n Parker Harris Mentoring Prize: Parker Harris will give a one-to-one mentoring session covering all aspects of professional development to a selected artist. n Somerset Art Works Mentoring Prize: One-to-one mentoring session covering all aspects of professional development to a selected artist. n St Cuthberts Mill Award: 20 sheets of Saunders Waterford 300gsm worth over £120 will be awarded to an artist who works on paper. n Beyond Print Prize: £100 vouchers will be awarded to three artists for use of any of Beyond Print’s services (printing, mounting, framing, scanning etc). n People’s Choice Prize: £500 will be awarded to the artist who receives the most public votes.

Moving moment at open day THE recent midweek open day for the Mendip Hospital Cemetery was a great success.

There were visitors from Wells, Frome, Radstock, Chilcompton and Ilchester, and there was a very gratifying and moving moment when a visitor, who thought that his great-grandmother was buried on the site, had his hopes confirmed when a volunteer found his relation listed in the burial register as being buried

on January 10, 1900, and could show him the approximate place of her grave.

He was also directed to the South West Heritage Centre at Norton Fitzwarren which holds the medical records for patients who were in the asylum and most probably also holds a photograph of his greatgrandmother.

The next midweek open day will be on Wednesday, July 13, from 11am-4pm.

Find news online at www.wellsvoice.co.uk

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wellsvoice

22

July 2022

n NEWS

More tiles delivered as Mosaic progresses RUTH Ames-White will use an estimated three-quarters of a million tiles for the Wells in Mosaic project, and the most recent consignment was delivered in person by John and Janet Adey of Mosaic Supplies Ltd in Stourport on Severn.

They were both delighted to be able to see the ‘work in progress’ in Ruth’s studio. Janet said: “We have known Ruth for many years, she has always worked in unglazed ceramic Winckleman’s tiles which we have supplied her with. The Mosaic was initially an idea that took many years to come to fruition, and we are proud to have supplied tiles for it.”

The latest of many of the historic buildings in Wells to be included in the walkable map of the city is St Cuthbert’s, the parish Church of Wells. Church Warden Antonia Gwynn also visited the studio recently to see this and was delighted with

the response of local people, organisations and businesses has been tremendous, but fundraising efforts continue.

Most recently the multitalented mosaicist was joined by her husband and musical friends for a concert in aid of the project held in St Thomas’ Church. The event was a great success and raised about £1,000.

For more information and how to sponsor the project, see www.wellsinmosaic.org

wells in mosaic

Above, Summer Serenade ensemble, from left: Helen Lunt, David Cheetham, Ruth Ames-White, Byron Lawson Joce, Barry Rose, Ian AmesWhite and John Vousden; top right, John and Janet Adey delivered the recent consignment of tiles to Ruth’s studio the depiction. She said: “It is a pleasure to see the vast mosaic taking shape and I’m particularly pleased with Ruth’s lovely tile version of St Cuthbert’s.

Her depiction of the church is

delightful and really shows off its impressive medieval tower which is so much part of the Wells landscape.”

The tiles are a large part of the overall cost of the project and

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wellsvoice

July 2022

23

n QUEEN’S PLATINUM JUBILEE

‘A marvellous day of celebration we shall not forget’ THE celebrations in Wells to mark the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee have been hailed as a stunning success.

Thousands of people flocked to the city centre on Sunday, June 5, to watch the colourful procession that kicked things off, and enjoy music and dance performances, take part in workshops and children’s races, have fun on the rides and slides, admire the vehicles on display, and make use of the food vendors and wide range of stalls.

The celebrations were organised by Wells Rotary Club working in partnership with Wells City Council, Wells Cathedral, Project Factory, TIME, Wells Voice and other local organisations.

“It was party time in Wells,” At the celebrations held on June 5 in Wells, Wells Civic Society was able to support the ‘Plant a tree for the Jubilee’ idea by offering tree saplings for ‘adoption’, which was well supported. Pictured at the Civic Society stall on Cathedral Green are Mayor and Mayoress of Wells, Councillor Stuart Cursley and his wife June, with Civic Society Chair Chris Winter. In celebration of its own Platinum Jubilee this year, after a break for August, a special Civic Society event is being planned for September, as the Society was founded in the year of Her Majesty the

said Wendy Ray, Wells Rotary President.

“What a wonderful day it was to see the community of Wells coming together to celebrate Her Majesty our Queen’s reign for the past 70 years.

“So many activities for both young and old took place to add to the fantastic atmosphere. Someone said to me, it was the best time they had had for years.

“It was indeed a marvellous and memorable day to bring our community of Wells together to celebrate and have fun. Thank you to everyone for helping and also to everyone who came along to make it an amazing day – a day we shall not forget.”

The opening ceremony was performed by Lord Lieutenant of Somerset Annie Maw, with

Queen’s accession. Ideas or special requests for this event to chris.f.winter@btinternet.com

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Top, Town Crier Len Sweales, Lord Lieutenant of Somerset Annie Maw, Mayor Stewart Cursley and Rotary President Wendy Ray at the opening ceremony; above, crowds watch young dancers from Dance Fusion Wells in action on the Performance Zone stage; left, two of the Daleks Mayor and Mayoress of Wells Stewart and June Cursley and Wells Town Crier Len Sweales.

The procession that followed was led by the British Army Tidworth Band. Other participants in the procession included local organisations such as Wells Branch Royal British Legion, local Scouts, Guides and Air and Army Cadets, Wells u3a and Wells WI, and children in fancy dress.

The public were able to meet and talk to Daleks and Cybermen in the Undercroft at Bishop’s Palace, and the Doctor Who characters also came out in a procession of their own that ended with them lining up in front of Wells Cathedral.

The Sustainable Wells ‘Fresh n’ Good Collective’ served more than 200 cream teas in the Cathedral nave, where Wells Wind Quintet provided a musical accompaniment to the tea.

The Cathedral nave also played host to a lunchtime performance by the Somerset Dance Umbrella, based in Wells.

A packed audience was treated to ballet and contemporary performances by 50 young dancers from the area.

Conditions were dry for most of the day, but even though it started raining towards the end, there were still dozens of people in attendance for the Jerusalem finale on Cathedral Green by choir singers accompanied by Croscombe Orchestra.

The celebrations were featured on local TV and radio bulletins, and brought many congratulatory messages.

“Congrats to everyone, great showcase for Wells,” said one attendee. Another said it was the best event they had been to in 20 years.

A photographic and video record of the Wells Jubilee Celebrations is being created for posterity. Members of the public are invited to contribute by sending images and videos they have taken to Wendy Ray. Email wendyray1946@gmail.com u More pictures, pages 24&25

Email: news@wellsvoice.co.uk

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July 2022

n QUEEN’S PLATINUM JUBILEE

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Images from the celebrations on June 5: 1. Wells Branch Royal British Legion; 2. Wells firefighters; 3. WI members; 4. Local Air Cadets; 5. Wells Rugby Club; 6. A Cybe had an Open Day; 11. The banner made at the community art workshop; 12. British Army Tidworth Marching Band leading the procession; 13. Lorraine and Jeremy performing Jerusalem; 16. Darcie and Silvana with crowns they made in the craft area; 17. St John Ambulance; 18. Cookery fun in the Fun Kitchen; 19. Cam Valley M

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wellsvoice

July 2022

25

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erman and a Dalek; 7. Wells Theatre Festival; 8. Peter Butler with his 1952 MGTD; 9. Taking part in a Wookey Circus Skills workshop; 10. City of Wells Bowling Club y Millington of The Portraits on the Bandstand; 14. Children’s races medal winners Ember and Jemima with Gez; 15. Choir singers and Croscombe Orchestra Morris Men; 20. Matthew Sica with Henry and William; 21. Enjoying a cream tea in the Cathedral; 22. Devon & Somerset Fire and Rescue Service Corps of Drums

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wellsvoice

26

July 2022

n QUEEN’S PLATINUM JUBILEE

Occasion marked with tea party and special poem NEIGHBOURS and friends from Tor Street and Area Neighbourhood Watch came together to celebrate the Jubilee on Thursday, June 2,with a ‘Platinum Party in the Park’ in Tor Street garden.

There was plenty to eat with some emphasis on party delights from the 1950s – Victoria Sponge, Iced Fancies, Coronation Chicken and Cucumber Sandwiches as well as

more 21st-century fare.

The Loyal Toast was proposed to Her Majesty followed by singing the National Anthem – both verses.

A poem specially composed for the occasion (see below) was read by local poet Mary Shoobridge, bringing appreciative smiles all round.

Proceedings grew to a close with the serving of the Platinum Pudding.

The Platinum Party in the Park

Jon Browne of Brownes Garden Centre, left, with Blue School Head of Enrichment Chris Wool and members of the school’s Garden, Orchard and Conservation Club taking delivery of the jubilee trees

Trees given to school for planting as part of Green Canopy project

THE QUEEN’S JUBILEE Today the Queen was coming to tea To mark her platinum jubilee.

The kettle was boiling, its whistle was trilling, The teacups and saucers stood ready for filling.

Earl Grey or Darjeeling or simply PG: The choices were endless when it came to tea.

The tables were loaded with various treats, Cucumber sandwiches, crustless and neat.

Coronation chicken served in a bun, And iced bunting biscuits made just for fun.

In pride of place was the Jubilee Trifle Amaretti and lemon, it was quite an eyeful.

The golden state carriage came over the hill, The Queen had arrived: oh what a thrill.

The corgis hopped out on the heels of the Queen, Heading straight for the table: the trifle they’d seen.

The footman attempted to distract them post haste With a cloak like a bullfighter held at his waist.

But the corgis steamed on with a glint in their eyes, If they couldn’t have trifle they’d have chicken pies.

The result was just chaos, the guests were affrighted, There was no chance the mayor would ever be knighted.

There were serviettes flying and guests in distress, The entire picnic table was a right royal mess!

The Queen waved and smiled as she took off her crown, “It gets jolly heavy,” she said and sat down.

“No tea for me,” the Queen said with a grin, “My drink of choice is Dubonnet and gin!”

Mary Shoobridge

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TEN trees that were bought for the Wells Jubilee Celebrations have been donated to Wells Blue School.

The trees – a mixture of apple, pear, plum, cherry and ornamental cherry – were supplied by Brownes Garden Centre and used to enhance and demarcate the Cathedral Green Performance Zone at the celebrations on June 5.

The Wells Jubilee

Celebrations Steering Group subsequently offered them to the Blue School, and Jon Browne of Brownes, who had been looking after the trees, delivered them on June 14.

They will be planted on the school site by pupils belonging to the Garden, Orchard and Conservation Club as part of the Queen’s Green Canopy initiative.

Details will be recorded on a plaque.

The ZZ Birmingham Band from Wells entertained the hundred or so people who gathered for the beacon lighting event at West Horrington on June 2. It was organised by St Cuthbert Out Parish Council and supported by the National Lottery Fund. This picture of the band was taken by Annie Deeley.

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wellsvoice

July 2022

27

n QUEEN’S PLATINUM JUBILEE

Mayor helps plant tree for the jubilee

A TREE was planted in May at Churchill Retirement Living’s St Athelm Lodge development in Wells in celebration of the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee.

Owners and colleagues were joined by Councillor Stewart Cursley, the new Mayor, and his wife June; Simon Tudway Quilter, whose late mother Elizabeth had connections to the Royal Family and lived at St Athelm Lodge; as well as friends and local residents to plant a Prunas Autumnalis Rosea sapling in the development’s communal gardens.

The event was part of the Queen’s Green Canopy initiative, created to mark Her Majesty’s Platinum Jubilee.

Connie White, Lodge Manager, said: “It was great to welcome everyone to this special event to kick off this year’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations at St Athelm Lodge, and we’d like to say a big thank you to Cllr Cursley, his wife June and Simon Tudway Quilter for taking part.

“There are plenty more events happening soon at the

Mayor and Mayoress Stewart and June Cursley with Simon Tudway Quilter and others at the tree planting ceremony at St Athelm Lodge; left, Councillor Cursley shovels soil around the tree Lodge to mark the Queen’s jubilee year, and everyone is welcome to come and enjoy a patriotic celebration and experience the lifestyle, friendship and sense of community on offer here.”

Churchill is planting more than 40 trees at its retirement developments across the country part of the Queen’s Green Canopy initiative, helping to highlight the value of trees and woodlands.

Mendip makes significant contribution to tree canopy MENDIP District Council is to plant 8,000 trees in the district for the Queen’s Green Canopy.

The council has already planted around 4,000 trees and that will double by the end of the planting season.

Tree planting is central to Mendip’s commitment for addressing the Climate and Ecological Emergency, as they mitigate carbon emissions, whilst generating biodiversity.

The Queen’s Green Canopy

is a national initiative which encourages organisations, communities and individuals to ‘Plant a Tree for the Jubilee’ to mark Her Majesty’s Platinum Jubilee.

This scheme has only been made possible through close partnership working with local charities, Somerset Wildlife Trust, Mendip Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) and the community group, Reimagining the Levels,

who each received financial support from the council for tree planting. Native tree species such as oak, birch, beech, hazel, rowan, small-leaved lime and holly will be used for hedging and woodland creation. Some have already been planted in Edford Wood and Harridge Wood, and King’s Castle Wood near Wells will see trees planted later in the year.

Councillor Tom Ronan, Portfolio Holder for Climate

Change, said: “It’s fantastic to see tree planting as part of the jubilee celebrations.

“Planting trees is a vital way to mitigate the effects of climate change and is of huge importance to wildlife.

“We hope Mendip’s contribution to the tree canopy will help keep carbon emissions low in our district, provide thriving habitats for local wildlife, and improve residents’ wellbeing in years to come.”

Thanks from Queen as Somerset plants nearly 20,000 trees ALMOST 20,000 trees have been planted in Somerset by more than 200 individuals and organisations as part of the Queen’s Green Canopy initiative.

On the last day of the official tree planting season, which ran from October to March, Her Majesty The Queen sent the following thank you message to all those people in the United Kingdom who came together to plant over a million jubilee trees

in her name: “As the planting season draws to a close, I send my sincere thanks to everyone across the country who has planted a tree to celebrate my Platinum Jubilee.

“I am deeply touched that so many community groups, schools, families, and individuals have made their own unique contributions to the Green Canopy initiative. I hope your Jubilee trees flourish and grow

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for many years to come, for future generations to enjoy.”

Her Majesty’s message marks the halfway point for The Queen’s Green Canopy initiative, which spans two official tree planting seasons. Tree planting will start again in October 2022, through to the end of the Jubilee year.

The Lord Lieutenant of Somerset, Annie Maw, said: “The enthusiasm shown by Somerset

people for the Green Canopy scheme is a wonderful mark of respect for Her Majesty and will make a real contribution to the re-greening of our county. I do hope that those who have not been able to plant so far will do so during the second planting season. But do remember you must register your tree on the interactive map in order to become an official member of the Queen’s Green Canopy.”

Email: news@wellsvoice.co.uk

wellsvoice

28

n COMMERCIAL SENSE

July 2022

With Jane Bowe of Probusiness accountants

Why business benefits if you take a break

ANOTHER year is now more than half past, and in my corner of Somerset, it feels as though the new year has just begun.

Is this because I am ageing, or because life is so busy that there is scarcely a moment to stop and rest in the moment?

The great playwright, Christopher Fry, on reaching the age of 93, commented to a friend that he felt as if he was having breakfast every five minutes.

Whilst not having reached that age quite yet, I sympathise with his view on the passage of time.

Recently it was suggested to me that I made a little more time for my creative hobbies. I love to paint, you see, and scarcely take time to do so. Yet recently, I spent a morning at Heritage art studios being mentored by Becca Barnard, a wonderful artist in her own right, who, alongside Heather Wallace, can help any aspiring painter to lift their game. (I recommend taking a

Rebecca Barnard and Heather Wallace preparing for an exhibition last year at the Heritage Courtyard Gallery and Studios

‘If you are running your own business, a work/life balance is incredibly hard to strike’ course there if you can!) It was a brilliant morning for me, and I came away feeling refreshed, and as if I had taken a complete

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break from my usual life.

If you are running your own business, a work/life balance is incredibly hard to strike. Not everyone finds time for hobbies or even time to relax and do absolutely nothing. Believe me, life travels by even more rapidly without these breaks or punctuation points which enable us to stand back and assess what’s going on. It’s really not a great idea to plough through from day to day without taking time to review – especially if you are a sole trader.

Honestly, some of the best entrepreneurial ideas come along when taking a more distant view from your business. To enable this, make sure you have a good team of advisors around you and use them in a way that saves you time and, where possible, money, and by this I include the cost of your own time too. If paperwork takes you four times as long as someone who deals with it every

day, not only should you be able to avoid mistakes by using a professional, but you could also be saving money in the long term.

Next, keep your work space separate from your living space and never say that you haven’t got time to take a break. Believe me, you haven’t got time NOT to. If you work better out of your home, look around for a shared office space or hot desk you can rent.

They are available in Wells and environs, so perhaps you might try it for a short time and see how you get on.

To keep your business thriving, you need to thrive too.

Your health and well-being are every bit as important to your success as your practical, trade and entrepreneurial skills.

Keep this in mind and you will most definitely feel the benefit.

Take care…

Email: sales@wellsvoice.co.uk

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n NEWS

Womenswear store launches new loyalty scheme AMBA Womenswear in Wells Market Place has launched its own loyalty shopping scheme.

Owner Karen Bell said that she has started the new scheme as a way of rewarding the store’s customers for their support.

Just like the existing Wells Loyalty League, customers can have a card stamped when they make a purchase, and once they have collected £100 worth of stamps, the card can be entered into a draw to win £50 worth of Amba vouchers.

“We’re really excited about this,” said Karen.

“We saw that people loved the loyalty scheme, and wanted to make sure that our customers benefit as much as possible from shopping with us. We’re so appreciative of their support.”

A picture of the shop painted

by Wells artist Chris Lee appears on the Amba loyalty card, and Chris drew the first winning entry, which had been handed in by customer Sarah Wiltshire.

Chris Lee picks the winning entry watched by Jayne Clark, left, and Karen Bell

Lunch set to share out more funds

Care in your own home

SOUP, the grant-funding lunch, No need for an expensive care home returns on Saturday, July 9, when four more local projects Stay independent at home with your own live in carer will be given the opportunity to explain their services and raise No need for an expensive care much-needed funds.

Many people want to stay in home their own home as they get olde Wells City Carnival will be No need for an expensive care home Stay independent at home with your own No need for an expensive care home live in carer back in November after two No need for a Stay independent at home with your own want live into carer Many people stay in their own home as they get older years of frustrating lockdown; 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 Herbal Brue Wells wish toMany people want to stay in their own home as they get olderNo an expensive expensivecare care home Stay independent at Noneed need for for an an expensive care home Many people want to stay in their own home as they get older launch Remembering Remedies Rod Major, right, presents a £350 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 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 in Wells; Dogs for Health seek sponsorship chequeFeatherbed to Ross Young 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 volunteer dog owners to build 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 “I am delighted to support bonds with isolated people, and in only the very best care at has an affordable cost SOUP,” said We Rod,believe “a wonderful Wells Skatepark Community 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 initiative which has helped so Group want to raise awareness 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 many good causes in Wells.” and fundraise for the new We believe in only the very best care at an affordable cost Ross Young organises skatepark.

Wells SOUP on behalf of Wells Wells Dementia Action Independents and said: “Please Alliance will report how the support these four projects – money they received from April’s they need our help.

SOUP has benefitted the charity.

“Come along at 12.45pm on This SOUP is generously Call for a brochure today Call for a brochure today July 9 to the Connect Centre for sponsored by Rod Major of Wells 0117 9860710 / Freephone: 0800 111 4885 0800 111 4885 a light lunch and hear the four0117 9860710 / Freephone: Funeral Services with the backing Call for a brochureCall todayfor a brochure today Email: featherbed@featherbedhomecare.co.uk Email: featherbed@featherbedhomecare.co.uk speakers tell us in four minutes of The Blue School, Waitrose, 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 Call for a brochure brochure 0800 today whatwww.featherbedhomecare.co.uk work their organisation Morrisons, Sante Wine, Burns 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 does in the community. the Bread and Mickey in the Email: featherbed@featherbedhomecare.co.uk Email: Email: Call for a brochure today Call fo Email: featherbed@featherbedhomecare.co.uk featherbed@featherbedhomecare.co.uk www.featherbedhomecare.co.uk “Every penny we raise goes to Market who will provide the www.featherbedhomecare.co.uk www.featherbedhomecare.co.uk www.featherbedhomecare.co.uk 0117 9860710 / Freephone: 0800 111 4885 www.featherbedhomecare.co.uk 0117 9860710 / the good causes.” food, beverage and flowers.

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

Care in your own home Care in your own Carehome in your own home Care in y Carein in your your own own home Care in your Care ownhome home Care in your own home

01749 349007

Got News? Call 07906 499655

www.featherbedhomecare.co.uk Email: news@wellsvoice.co.uk

www.feath

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July 2022

n NEWS

Tutor ready to help and inspire others at new music school

By Emma James IF you are looking to release your inner musician, James Packer suggests heading to the newly opened Portway Annexe to explore the possibilities of Saturday’s Portway Music School.

The school offers lessons in drumming, keyboard, piano and violin to musicians and would-be musicians of all ages and focuses on pop and contemporary music.

James hopes that opening on Saturday will allow working adults to find time to learn a new hobby or improve on existing skills.

He says: “It could also allow young children to share their

lesson experience with parents and, who knows, they might even want to join in.”

James’ experience and expertise mean that he can support students who are working towards music qualifications in school, at college and university. He says: “At the age of five, I started playing the violin. Alongside that I had piano lessons and became quite successful at composing and writing songs.”

James’ songs have won awards and have had thousands of plays on streaming services as well as being played on the radio.

At the age of ten, he was inspired by hearing a neighbour play the drums and gradually the drums

took priority in his musical life.

Early on, James took part in European orchestra tours, played at large venues such as the Birmingham Symphony Hall and later at the Glastonbury Festival.

Playing at weddings became a source of income and at the age of 21, James started teaching full-time.

Looking ahead, James hopes to be able to run a range of events and workshops and aims to open the school more frequently. The school is currently advertising for wind players to come forward to start a relaxed wind group, and band sessions and a pop orchestra day are also planned.

James has taught in many different schools across the county but feels strongly that Wells is home. He says: “Wells is my soul place. It’s where I belong. I remember when my Mum used to bring me here to play in the park and feed the pigeons.

“I want to be able to help and support the people of Wells in any way I can through music.”

James Packer on the drums, including with his son Noah, top

Artist’s painting of Palace becomes a jigsaw puzzle

Alison Cholmondeley hands a cheque to local MSF representative Kate Baldwin; and below, Sally Cooper of Wells Film Centre hands a cheque to Derek Cooper representing the Wells branch of the Royal British Legion

Distribution of film donations TWO good causes have benefitted from a special screening of blockbuster film Operation Mincemeat at Wells Film Centre.

The film tells the exploits of Charles Cholmondeley whose clever deception over the Allied invasion of Sicily during the Second World War saved many lives. The screening was organised by his wife Alison, who still lives in the couple’s house in Wells. As a result of donations

WELLS artist Sue Williams has had one of her paintings turned into a jigsaw puzzle.

The 500-piece puzzle, created from her picture of The Bishop’s Palace, is now on sale at Absolute Cards in Wells High Street.

“For some time I have had an ambition to produce a jigsaw puzzle from one of my oil paintings,” said Sue. “After a lot of preparation and with much help from Ian Thomas of Absolute Cards, we have taken delivery of the 500-piece puzzles.

I have not previously seen a jigsaw of Wells from a painting, except those carried out by Sturgeon many years ago.

“They have been manufactured in Britain from

The lid of the jigsaw puzzle from a painting by Sue Williams 100 per cent recycled board and packaged in a lovely quality box.

A perfect gift.”

The puzzles are obtainable from Absolute Cards at a cost of £15.

Encouragement to notice nature made at the film screening and afterwards, she was able to give £1,000 to Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF).

Another £413 was given to the Wells branch of the Royal British Legion.

To advertise, contact Andy on 01749 675157

RESIDENTS are being encouraged to notice and admire nature on their doorstep – even the weeds – in the first Wells Bioblitz on Saturday, July 23.

Sustainable Wells is inviting local people to join guided walks

(sign up on Eventbrite with links on the Sustainable Wells website), or go out on their own using the iNaturalist app. All the data collected on the app will be used by Somerset Wildlife Trust in their Big Count event.

Email: sales@wellsvoice.co.uk

wellsvoice

July 2022

n NEWS

Legal guidance with Chubb Bulleid

Guide to new divorce laws

Jazz in the gardens at a previous City of Wells Almshouses open day

Music, lunches and cakes at almshouses open day THE residents, staff and Trustees of the City of Wells Almshouses will once again open their gardens and buildings on Saturday, July 23, between 11am and 4pm.

There will be talks about the history of the almshouses in the chapel at 11.30am and 3pm, and the Grey Dogs jazz band will be playing from 1.30pm.

Ploughman’s lunches and the now-famous cakes and gateaux will be served in the Bubwith site, at the back of St Cuthbert’s churchyard.

The almshouses have been around since the 15th century

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and have always had the same purpose – to provide affordable housing for older people from the city.

They are not usually open to the public, so this is a rare opportunity to enjoy the lovely gardens and the entertainment and talk to the residents and volunteers. Entry is free.

The Llewellyns gardens are of special interest this year due to the paving that is newly completed.

For more information, ring 01749 675813 or email manager@wellsalmshouses.org. uk

The Hilliard Society of Miniaturists held its 40th anniversary exhibition of miniature art at Wells Town Hall from June 11-18. Hundreds of visitors admired the artworks on show, and bought tickets for the Ruby Jubilee Charity Raffle which had 60 miniature paintings as prizes. Pictured are Society council members, from left, Roz Pierson, Jenny Brooks, Elizabeth Brown, Caroline Jones and Claudia Haesen.

Got News? Call 07906 499655

How long does a divorce take?

How long a divorce takes has changed following new no-fault divorce rules. It now takes a minimum of 26 weeks to get divorced in England and Wales. This only covers the divorce proceedings, however.

Division of finances and child arrangements are separate processes which can take less time or longer, depending on the circumstances.

After coming into effect on April 6, 2022, the new divorce rules have also introduced many changes that aim to avoid conflict between divorcing couples. This includes removing the need to place blame on a single spouse. However, the changes have increased the time it takes to get a divorce in some cases.

Previously, a divorce would usually take four-six months, but with the addition of a new 20-week “cooling-off” period, this timeline has increased to a minimum of six months.

How has the divorce process changed?

Previously, to get a divorce, an applicant needed to cite one of five accepted reasons for the end of the marriage. These were desertion, unreasonable behaviour, adultery, two years separation with their spouse’s consent and five years separation without their spouse’s consent. This requirement has been removed.

The previous system often resulted in further conflict as one spouse needed to take the blame for the failure of the relationship.

On top of this, the old laws allowed the application to be contested, meaning that in some cases, a divorce would not be granted without a court hearing.

In contrast, the no-fault divorce law simply requires the applicant to provide a statement saying that the marriage has broken down irretrievably. This cannot be contested. To further reduce conflict, it is now also possible to make a joint divorce application, allowing couples to split more amicably.

The final key change in divorce law is the introduction of a 20-week “cooling-off” period between the original application and the Conditional Order (which the court issues to state there is no reason the divorce cannot proceed). This has been implemented as a way to give both spouses time to consider the decision to divorce and make choices regarding things like childcare and finances.

How do you get a divorce under the new laws?

The new divorce process can be broken down into key parts: 1. The online divorce application form can be completed by both spouses (a joint application) or one spouse alone (a sole application). When completing the form, the applicant/s must state that the marriage or civil partnership has irretrievably broken down.

Applicants are required to provide the original marriage certificate, or a certified copy, and personal details like both spouses’ names and contact details.

It is also recommended that the applicants get in touch with a solicitor to discuss their options, including the impact of divorce on their finances and any children.

After the divorce application is submitted, the court will officially “issue the divorce”. Both spouses will receive a copy of it and the applicant/s will be provided with a confirmation and a case number.

In the event of a sole application, the spouse who did not make the application (the respondent) will need to return an Acknowledgement of Service form within 14 days.

Overall, the divorce application will take around seven days to fill out and a further 10

days to be processed. If a paper application was submitted, it can take longer.

2. The next stage in divorce proceedings is to obtain the Conditional Order. This court order confirms that there is no legal reason your divorce cannot proceed.

There is a minimum 20-week coolingoff period after the court has issued the divorce before you can apply for this. This is to provide the couple with time to reflect on their decision to get divorced and start making choices regarding their finances and any children they may have.

3. For a divorce to be legally binding, the court must issue a Final Order.

Applicants become eligible for the Final Order six weeks after they obtain the Conditional Order. Once the Final Order is issued, you are officially divorced.

Do you have to be separated before you can get divorced?

Under the old divorce laws, couples sometimes needed to have been separated for two or five years before they could get a divorce.

However, the new laws no longer require applicants to provide a reason for divorce other than a statement of irretrievable breakdown. This means that applicants do not have to have been separated to be granted a divorce by the court.

It should be noted that there is no such thing as an “automatic divorce” after a period of separation. A married couple must apply for a divorce for it to be legally binding, even if they have been living apart for a long period of time.

How long does it take to get a divorce settlement?

Throughout a divorce, decisions must be made regarding property, personal belongings, finances, pensions, etc. This process will typically take months, but the timeline can vary massively depending on the situation.

When dividing finances, Section 25 of the Matrimonial Causes Act 1973 is used to decide what is considered fair. It takes into consideration: l Income and earning capacity of each spouse l Assets l Contributions l The age of the individuals l The length of the marriage l Any future financial obligations l The needs of the parties l Conduct Depending on the complexity of the couple’s assets and finances, it is possible to reduce the time it takes to get a settlement by agreeing on the terms privately or through mediation.

If it is necessary to have a court decide on division of finances and the situation is complex, it can take over a year.

How long do child arrangements take in divorce?

A divorce can be a confusing and stressful time, especially for children. The only way to reduce some of the uncertainty that they may be feeling is by making child arrangements quickly.

In the best-case scenario, the couple will be able to make these arrangements through mediation or in private. However, in cases that are more complex where there is disagreement, a Child Arrangements Order may be needed. This process will usually take six months to a year. n Chubb Bulleid’s friendly divorce solicitors can guide you through all parts of the divorce process. This includes divorce applications, finances and arrangements for children. We have local offices in Wells, Street and Somerton. To speak to one of our experts, call us on 01749 836100.

Email: news@wellsvoice.co.uk

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July 2022

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Celebration of ten years in city RESIDENTIAL Manager Matthew Clarke and his team at the Wells branch of estate agent Greenslade Taylor Hunt (GTH) are celebrating a successful decade in the city for the firm.

Matthew says he is particularly proud of the way his team looks after both buyers and sellers.

Covid has seen a reassessment for many homebuyers about what is really important and the attractions of Wells are proving irresistible, he says. Business is buoyant with large numbers of young families drawn to the area for its perfect mix of relaxed country living and excellent schooling.

“We as an office are delighted to be selling to so many young families looking to escape larger city life and Wells is seeming forever popular,” said Matthew.

The move to the countryside is breathing new life into villages and hamlets, which were previously discounted by young families, say GTH; the push to the countryside is having a rejuvenating effect on village

From left, Diane Smith, administrator; Simon Havens, Partner in charge of GTH’s residential department; Anita Hole, residential negotiator; Jamie Batt, agricultural surveyor; Kylie Turner, apprentice sales negotiator; and Matthew Clarke, residential manager schools and local businesses as families embrace country living.

Simon Havens, now Partner in charge of the network of residential branches across Somerset, Devon and Dorset, set up the Wells office back in 2012.

Initially the branch at 74 High Street offered residential and lettings properties, but now

provides a more comprehensive range of property services including agricultural advice and help with all planning matters.

Simon handed over the reins to Samuel Powell in 2019, before Matthew took the helm at the branch in September 2021.

Samuel now heads up the firm’s Ilminster branch.

Words flow for Poet Laureate of waterway A WELLS woman has become first official Poet Laureate to an organisation that looks after a stretch of the River Avon.

Alison Bergqvist has been given the role by the Avon Navigation Trust (ANT), the river guardian and statutory navigational authority for the Warwickshire, Worcestershire and Gloucestershire Avon.

She had hardly written before being moved by boating on the river with her partner Chris on his Hardy 20 River Pilot Tess, and says verses poured out for The Little ANT Book of River Poems.

Boxes of the books were delivered in 2020 just before Alison’s birthday – and the first lockdown, which also shut off the Trust’s merchandising outlets.

“Now two years and more/ And water galore/ Under Avon’s ancient bridges,” mused Alison.

“But time stands still/ By river and mill/ And my words as ardent as ever!”

Estate agents open new office in Wells SANDERSONS Estate & Letting Agents, which recently set up a Somerset branch, has opened a new office in Guardhouse Lane, Wells.

Sandersons has been active in London and South East England for 30 years but wanted to expand to the South West.

They approached local sales and letting experts, Kate Lewis and Alex Relf, to become managing partners and began trading in the Somerset area in 2021.

Kate said: “The business has gone from strength to strength, including recently winning gold in the British Property Awards

Kate Lewis, left, with business partner Alex Relf for customer service. We are thrilled to be opening a larger office after such a short time.”

There are no property

photographs on the office wall, rather a relaxed and informal environment for clients to discuss their property needs.

Kate and Alex put their success down to their personal approach. Alex said: “There are several long-established firms in the area, but we believe we offer something different. We take time to get to know our clients, and understand their reasons for selling, so we can help them with their next move. We are well known for our entrepreneurial style and attention to detail but our aim is always to put people first.”

Law firm announces promotion of three of its team SOUTH West-based law firm Mogers Drewett, which has an office in Wells, has announced the promotion of three of its team.

John Osman, Simon Walker and Jenna Allsop all started the new financial year on June 1 in their newly promoted roles.

Former Senior Associate John Osman, who joined the Litigation and Dispute Team last year, has been promoted to Partner; family solicitor Simon Walker is promoted from Associate to Senior Associate; while Jenna Allsop from the Commercial Property team is

To advertise, contact Andy on 01749 675157

also promoted from Associate to Senior Associate. Managing Partner Sean McDonough said: “John, Simon and Jenna have continuously shown their commitment to exceed their clients’ expectations and I am proud to have them as part of the Mogers Drewett team.”

Alison Bergqvist on board Tess ANT Chief Executive Clive Matthews said: “I don’t know a lot about poetry, but even I can appreciate the quality of Alison’s work and the fact that our river inspires her so is very worth celebrating by making her our first Poet Laureate.”

Alison, a retired literacy and dyslexia support worker, said: “It is the most exciting thing that has ever happened to me. I thought pootling up and down the Avon would be boring, but I couldn’t have been more wrong.

I love every minute, there’s inspiration everywhere and the poetry gushes out.”

The £4 book, which will raise funds for the charity, is on sale via ANT’s website www. avonnavigationtrust.org

Email: sales@wellsvoice.co.uk

wellsvoice

July 2022

n NEWS

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Focus on health with Bluebird Care

Be safe as the temperatures rise

By Jenny Atkins

Some examples of the stained glass panels that were on display

Stained glass show to mark centenary A STUNNING exhibition of stained glass was held at Wells Cathedral to celebrate the centenary of the British Society of Master Glass Painters.

Current members of the society, founded in 1921, were asked to create a new exhibition panel measuring 30cm x 30cm on any theme of their choice.

Sixty of the panels were displayed in the East Cloister of the Cathedral in a celebration of the unique art of glass. The works were created using both traditional and modern glass techniques, demonstrating the extraordinary range of stained glass currently practised.

The artists explored a variety of subjects with a few recurring themes, such as the environment, the pandemic and the beauty of nature.

Several cathedrals have hosted the exhibition during the Centenary Exhibition Tour.

The British Society of Master Glass Painters is the UK’s leading organisation devoted exclusively to the art and craft of stained

MOST of us look forward to the summer but there are times when the heat can be extreme and dangerous.

Heat is an environmental and occupational hazard. The prevention of deaths in the community caused by extreme high temperatures (heatwaves) is a public health concern.

Hyperthermia is the general name given to a variety of heatrelated illnesses. Common forms of hyperthermia are heat exhaustion, heat stress and heat stroke. Heat stroke is especially dangerous and requires immediate medical attention.

The older we get the more sensitive we become to temperature changes. Elderly people are far more prone than younger people to heat stress, which includes a series of conditions where the body is overheating. Symptoms can range from profuse sweating to dizziness, cessation of sweating, confusion, inability to concentrate and collapsing. Certain behaviours also put people at greater risk: drinking alcohol, taking part in strenuous outdoor physical activities in hot weather, and taking medications that impair the body’s ability to regulate its temperature.

Very often, existing medical conditions make elderly people susceptible to further complications when there is an increase in ambient temperature. For example, a person using diuretics experiences water loss and dehydration will accelerate when

the outside temperature increases.

As well as health risks to consider there are also environmental risks.

Not every home has fans or air conditioners but people can take the following steps to reduce heat discomfort: create cross-ventilation by opening windows on two sides of the building; cover windows when they are exposed to direct sunlight; and keep curtains, shades, or blinds drawn during the hottest part of the day.

There are also lifestyle risks such as overdressing. Older people in particular may dress inappropriately in hot weather without realising as they tend not to feel the heat as strong as it is. Natural fabrics such as cotton are best.

People should avoid visiting overcrowded places. Trips should be scheduled during non-rush hour times and participation in special events should be carefully planned.

If you have identified someone who is suffering from hyperthermia its best to: n Get the victim out of the sun and into a cool place – preferably one that is air-conditioned. n Offer fluids but avoid alcohol and caffeine. Water and fruit and vegetable juices are best. n Encourage the individual to shower or bathe, or sponge with cool water. n Urge the person to lie down and rest, preferably in a cool place.

Let’s make sure everyone enjoys summer safely. Winter will arrive all too soon. n Jenny Atkins is Care Manager of Bluebird Care (Mendip), email CMMendip@bluebirdcare.co.uk, phone 01749 372197 or 01458 570015.

Steve Clare, who set up Holy Wells Glass in Wells in 1995 glass. The current chairman of the organisation is Steve Clare, a Director of Holy Well Glass based in West Street, Wells. He set up the company in 1995, and is one of the foremost authorities on stained glass in the UK.

The deadline for the August edition is July 13

Got News? Call 07906 499655

01749 37 21 97

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July 2022

n NEWS

Tracking ships’ voyage around Antarctica

A COMPANY founded by Wells resident Craig Rackstraw is involved in an epic 20,000km voyage to send two replica ships to circumnavigate Antarctica.

Wireless technology specialists Icoteq are supporting two young brothers with the expedition in what is thought to be a world first. The metrelong scaled wooden replicas of 19th-century warships HMS Erebus and HMS Terror will drift through the Southern Ocean following the circumpolar current around the coastline of Antarctica. Icoteq has designed tracking and monitoring devices for the vessels that will report back via satellite the location of each boat throughout the journey and sensor data measuring sea temperature and ocean pH – both of which can be used as markers for climate change.

Images from an integrated camera will also be sent once per month.

Harry and Ollie Ferguson in front of HMS Erebus and HMS Terror with rigging in place on the ships Project Erebus, as the expedition is known, is the latest in a series of adventures for

GLASTONBURY & WELLS CATS PROTECTION

NEUTERING CAMPAIGN

From 19th April 2022 to 31st July 2022 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 07855 075962 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

Harry and Ollie Ferguson, aged 10 and 12, from Aberdeenshire, Scotland.

“We were contacted by the boys’ father MacNeill Ferguson to ask if we could advise him on the best tracker to buy online to fit to the boats,” said Craig, who founded Icoteq in 2013.

“We were so inspired by his sons’ mission, we offered to build the technology for them.

“We developed a custom tracking and data monitoring device that incorporates a GPS receiver, air and ocean temperature probes, a pH probe to measure ocean acidity and a forward-facing camera. Position and scientific data will be sent back to us using an ARGOS satellite communication link.

“The boys will hopefully provide inspiration to other children and families. They’re both extremely hands on and have worked hard to make this happen. They built the boats as far as possible by themselves – and where they have had to get professional help, it’s all been given for free.”

Craig said if successful it could show that low-cost sensors, such as those used on Ollie and Harry’s expedition, could be a viable way to help monitor climate change.

“This is currently done using expensive, complex equipment.

If low-cost sensors combined with citizen science can

contribute to the gathering of important scientific data, it could open the doorway for larger scale monitoring at a fraction of the price,” he said.

Bath-based Icoteq – whose previous work includes developing a new generation of satellite tracking equipment aimed at sea turtles and a plastic pollution tracker for a National Geographic-backed expedition – will feature a dedicated Erebus page on its website with a map that will track the two boats, along with a monthly camera image sent via satellite.

“It’s like a mission to Mars,” said Harry. “We cannot rescue the boats once they are launched so we have to plan every detail.”

The vessels are due to leave for South Georgia in the Southern Atlantic and will be handed over to the territory’s government who will take the boats on board a fisheries patrol vessel from which they will be launched 160km north into the Antarctic Circumpolar Current.

Project Erebus is the latest adventure for Ollie and Harry, who previously set the world record for the longest distance travelled at sea by a toy boat with their Playmobil pirate ship Adventure which sailed 6,072km to the Caribbean as part of their list of 500 adventures.

They went on to smash their own world record last year with a second toy ship that managed to sail more than 15,000km through the Caribbean and the Gulf of Mexico.

Craig Rackstraw takes Harry Ferguson through the procedure for controlling the tracking device

Email: sales@wellsvoice.co.uk

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July 2022

35

n NEWS Public opening of Rib garden

The Wells Jubilee Boules Tournament on June 12 raised almost £5,000 towards buying a minibus for local mental health charity Heads Up. The event, held for the first time at The Bishop’s Palace, was celebrating the 75th anniversary of Wells Rotary Club. Organiser Chris Borrison said: ‘I would like to thank The Bishop’s Palace authorities for allowing the use of their gardens, Charlie Bigham as event sponsor and other local businesses who were Piste Sponsors, to all who helped organise the event and of course the competitors.’ Wells Voice Editor Andy Vallis had the honour of throwing the first boule.

THE garden at The Rib in Wells is the Somerset National Garden Scheme (NGS) Garden for the Month in July.

The Rib is a privately owned medieval canonical hall house in St Andrew Street.

The garden is dominated by the Cathedral, its Lady Chapel and Chapter House which loom large over the well-established trees and shrubs.

Visitors will find a modern terrace with five huge terracotta pots; a lawn leading down to St Andrew’s Well and some newer mixed borders; an ancient walled orchard; and a traditionallyplanted cottage garden and small pond. There are seating areas positioned around the garden The garden will be open on Saturday, July 2, from 10am5pm.

Visits can be reserved through the NGS website ngs.org.uk; or by paying at the gate. Admission is £5, children free.

Event to showcase sustainable living The city council’s Sustainability Officer Emma Jakins looks forward to a new event that will celebrate local, sustainable food and life ON Saturday, July 16, Sustainable Wells and Wells Goes Green will be hosting the Nifty and Thrifty event at The Elim Connect Centre in Wells.

Nifty and Thrifty will be a celebration of local, sustainable and lowcost food and life. The event will run from 10am to 4pm and will feature a host of activities, presentations, information stands and talks to help you on your sustainable, low-cost journey.

We will explore food throughout its journey, from food storage to low-energy cooking with the Centre for Sustainable Energy; to zero waste cooking demonstrations, community fridge talks and information from The Compost

Champions. There will be lots to explore for all members of our community.

This event is free to attend and will feature a pay-what-youcan-cafe. You will be welcome to explore at your own pace, with plenty of opportunities to talk to knowledgeable organisations and individuals. A timeline of featured talks and presentations will be shared on the Nifty and Thrifty Facebook page.

Join us on July 16 to learn how to make sustainable, low-cost living as fun and easy as possible. If you would like to contact the event organisers, please email niftywells@gmail.com Nifty and Thrifty will be a feature of the Somerset Food Trail, running across Somerset from July 15-24. For more information on the Somerset Food Trail and information on other events in the area, head to the Somerset Food Trail’s website: somersetfoodtrail.org

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36

July 2022

n MESSAGE FROM THE MP

Change of PM not what country requires

IT has been a busy time with a host of different local and national issues to work through since I last wrote this column.

These vary from Ukraine to the cost of living, to working with the local councils to put together our Levelling Up bids.

I have also had around 500 or so emails regarding the Prime Minister. I have replied with a very detailed response of my position and the fact I share many constituents’ overwhelming anger at what happened in Downing Street.

I understand how angry people are and as I’ve said on television and radio many times, I feel the same. Where the Prime Minister is responsible, I wanted to hear him accept that responsibility, correct the record where necessary and apologise.

He’s done so and so we must all

News from Wells MP James Heappey make our judgements on what we want him to do next.

My view is that the country should not change its Prime Minister for the fifth time in 15 years. Our country needs leadership and a government with a mandate to deliver.

There are certainly challenging times ahead, but my focus is my job in Government, which has a particular focus on supporting Ukraine now, and on delivering for constituents.

As I write this, the Wells constituency is across so much of the media as Glastonbury Festival returns. Due to the pandemic, this is the first festival back in all its glory and I know there is huge excitement at its return.

It contributes an enormous amount to the local economy and whilst I am always keen that the organisers work closely with the local authorities to minimise disruption for residents, it’s with great excitement that we welcome stars from around the world, and hundreds of thousands of music lovers, to our corner of Somerset.

By the time you read this, it will have come and gone but I hope all those that went along enjoyed it. The coverage is always fantastic if you are unable to attend, and it is a great asset to the town and Somerset as a whole. I – of course – congratulate Emily and Michael Eavis on their extraordinary achievements putting on the festival, but I also want to mention Commercial Director Robert Richards, who sadly died in January after a short battle with cancer.

I worked with Robert on the Glastonbury Towns Board, and he was a wonderful man who was excellent at his job. He understood Somerset better than so many, and I am sure there will be some wonderful tributes for him at the first in-person festival since 2019.

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July 2022

n IN DAYS GONE BY

37

With Clare Blackmore

Queen clear on who to elect as bishop WELLS is proud to welcome the 80th and new Bishop of Bath and Wells, the Rt Rev Michael Beasley and his family.

His appointment is overseen by the prime minister’s office.

If the chosen individual accepts the position, the prime minister advises the Sovereign, who then formally nominates the prime minister’s choice. Thereafter, the diocese’s College of Canons meets to ‘elect’ the new bishop.

The monarch has no direct involvement but that was not always the case.

Gilbert Berkley was the Bishop of Bath and Wells from 1560 to 1581, and when he died in 1581 the diocese was left without a bishop for three years.

Berkley was known for importing two tons of wine a year and demanded vast quantities of wood from the manors of Wells to keep the Bishop’s Palace warm. It was reported in the 1890 Dictionary of National Biography that: “There was great waste and spoyle of the bishop’s woods at Wells and 200 oaks a year were felled during his tenure of the office.”

As a See it was said that Bath and Wells came with “difficult canons”, and after the three-year void Queen Elizabeth I took matters into her own hands as regards the appointment of a new bishop.

The Queen wrote to the Dean and Chapter of Wells in July 1584 from Nonesuch Palace.

“Elizabeth R. By the Queene.

Trustie and welbeloved, we greete you well.

Queen Elizabeth I took matters into her own hands as regards the appointment of a new bishop

‘Godwin suffered from gout and quatern ague which he believed was caused and aggravated by the waters of the moat’ And whereas the bishoppricke of Bath and Welles is at this presente voide by the death of the laste incumbent of the same, we call to remembrance the virtue, learnings and other godly gifts of our trustye and welbeloved Mr Thomas Godwyn, doctor of divinitie, now deane of our cathedral churche of Canterburye.

We have thought good by these our letters to name and recomende him unto you to be chosen to the saide bishoppricke of Bath and Welles.

Whearefore we praye and require you hearewith upon the receipt hearof to now procede to your election according to the lawes and our congie deslier (the sovereign’s licence or permission to a dean and chapter

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to choose as a bishop the person nominated in a missive) sent unto you.

This election so made to certifie unto us your common seal accordinglye.

Given under our signet at the mannor of Nonesucheth xxvth daye of Julye in the sixth and twentieth yeare of our raigne 1584.”

On July 26, 1584, the dean and chapter received a further letter from Valentine Dale, one of Queen Elizabeth I’s Master of Requests, urging speed in the election of Dr Godwyn, “whom her majestie doth speciallie favor”.

On July 27 a licence arrived in the city from Queen Elizabeth I for the election of a bishop by wit of privy seal (the personal seal of a reigning monarch authenticating a document of a personal nature).

On August 5, 1584, the licence to proceed to the election of a bishop was published accordingly.

On August 10, 1584, Thomas Godwin was unanimously elected Bishop of Bath and Wells. It is said that Thomas Godwin, although initially favoured by the Queen, did not like Wells and his favourite place was at Banwell where he built a second house, Towerhead, for his son.

Godwin suffered from gout and quatern ague which he believed was caused and aggravated by the waters of the moat.

Godwin, it is recorded, allowed the Bishop’s Palace to “fall into decay during his tenure

and that some of the stones were carried away for the building of Towerhead”.

Queen Elizabeth, having supported Godwin in his election as Bishop, was subsequently misinformed as to his conduct by her favourite of the time, Sir Walter Raleigh.

When in Wells, Godwin married for a second time although “aged, diseased and lame of the gout”. Raleigh told the Queen that Bishop Godwin had married a girl of 20 for her money and she had married him for half the bishopric.

Raleigh’s intention was to gain favour and acquire the manor of Banwell from the bishopric on a hundred years lease which Godwin refused.

He then had to endure many sharp messages from the Queen who believed Raleigh and took his part until the Earl of Bedford, who knew the bishop, told the Queen: “Madam, I know not how much the wife is above 20 but I know a son of hers is but a little under 40.”

This unfortunate affair, which affected his public character as well as his private happiness, contributed to an increase in his infirmities but to save Banwell, his favoured residence, and placate his persecutors Godwin parted with the manor of Wiveliscombe on a lease of 99 years.

Disgraced, and broken in health, suffering again from a quartan ague, the bishop retired to his native air of Wokingham, where he died, aged 73, on November 19, 1590.

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July 2022

n NEWS

Importance of local markets highlighted MENDIP Markets, run by of products on offer, was a Mendip District Council, took reminder that these markets part in the national Love Your are a good place to go shopping, Local Market (LYLM) campaign while also highlighting their which celebrates traditional importance to the local economy markets and their dedicated and their contribution to daily traders. life in the district’s towns and Markets in Frome, city.

Glastonbury, Shepton Mallet, Councillor Simon Carswell, Street and Wells proudly Portfolio Holder for Economic displayed a LYLM Development, said: banner during this “It’s been fantastic to year’s campaign, see the return of this which ran from popular campaign.

May 13 to June 5.

It’s always a great The usual fortnight start to the summer was extended for an additional and allows us to acknowledge week to allow the festivities to how important these markets are continue through the Jubilee for our communities. weekend.

“Over the course of a year, LYLM is organised by the the markets provide a platform National Association of British for hundreds of traders, often Market independent Bath & Authorities.

Wells Funerals ad.qxp_Layout small, 1 07/12/2021 15:45 businesses, Page 1 The variety of traders with hard working teams and featured, and the quality families behind them.”

Life as a full-time unpaid carer for a loved one can be demanding and unrelenting. With this in mind, an annual Carers Week was created with the aim of making caring visible, valued and supported. To mark this week, Heads Up organised pottery classes for carers at their base in South Horrington. None of the carers had ever tried making pottery before, except one woman who did it at school. ‘We believe it is important to support carers and give them some time to themselves,’ said Sally Dempsey from the charity.

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July 2022

39

n NEWS

Classy comedians keep jokes flowing AFTER three years away, the Wells Comedy Festival returned at the end of May, bringing some of the country’s top names in comedy to the city.

Dozens of top comedians – including household names Harry Hill, Phil Wang, Reginald D Hunter, Shaparak Khorsandi, Lou Sanders, Al Murray and Tim Key – gathered in Wells for three joke-filled days.

More than 5,300 tickets were sold to more than 40 shows in four different venues across the city, with audience members travelling from London, Yorkshire and across the South West.

Ben Williams, Founder of the Wells Comedy Festival, said: “Our first post-lockdown festival was a dream. We’ve had amazing feedback from our audiences and acts and, in my humble opinion,

it was our best line-up yet. A massive thanks to everyone who came to see a show, and to all the local businesses who gave us their support.”

Ben had dedicated this year’s festival to his mum, Lyn Jones, who died in November 2020.

In the festival brochure, he said: “Many comedians, staff, volunteers and festival-goers will know her as the heart and soul of the festival – sewing the bunting, keeping us all fed, and delivering these brochures across Somerset.

“She is the reason this festival exists – and, indeed, why I have a career in comedy – having helped me start a comedy night in Wells when I was 17. Thank you mum!”

The team behind the Wells Comedy Festival say that they will be announcing more exciting comedy in Somerset very soon.

New leadership roles decided

Harry Hill, top, and Phil Wang pictured at this year’s festival Pictures: Paul Gilbey

A NEW Leader and Executive have been announced at Somerset County Council’s Annual General Meeting – the first since May’s elections.

Liberal Democrat Councillor Bill Revans was confirmed as Leader of the council, and announced that Councillor Liz Leyshon will take on the role of Deputy Leader.

The Council’s Cabinet will be replaced by an Executive, with Cabinet Members now known as Lead Executive Members, and Junior Cabinet Members known as Associate Lead Members.

Councillor Tessa Munt, one of the two Wells county councillors, is to be Lead Member for Children and Families.

The Executive will be responsible for all county council services and oversee the local government reorganisation programme to establish the new single unitary council on April 1 next year.

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40

July 2022

n WHAT’S ON Art exhibition in Cathedral Cloisters JESMARIE’S Painters are a group of talented local artists who meet at St Thomas’ Church Hall on Monday afternoons.

After a couple of years’ gap due to lockdown, the group are delighted to once again be holding an exhibition in the Cloisters of Wells Cathedral. The exhibition will run from Friday, July 15, to Thursday, July 21, inclusive.

Unique and original paintings in a variety of subjects and media will be for sale between 10am and 5pm at affordable prices. There is no entrance fee, the display is easily accessed by wheelchair and refreshments are available in the cafe upstairs.

“Come along, bring your friends and family and have a browse and a chat to our local artists,” said the group’s Secretary, Sue Williams.

There are a limited number of membership places available within the art group. More information can be obtained from Sue. Email sue.willpower53@talktalk.net

Events at library due to take place in July EVENTS lined up at Wells Library in July include: n Lego Club on Saturday, July 9, at 10.30am. For ages 5 and up.

Book to avoid disappointment – email wlslib@somerset.gov.uk n Summer Reading Challenge starts on Saturday, July 9. This year’s challenge is all about science and innovation – join the Gadgeteers by reading books and collecting stickers over the summer. Sign up online via bit.ly/SRCGadgeteers or at Wells Library. n Police Beat Surgery: Talk to your local PCSO at Wells Library on Wednesday, July 6, from 12pm-1pm. No appointment necessary.

Celebration concert THE Cantabile Ladies Choir is holding a 21st Birthday Celebration Concert in St Thomas’ Church, Wells, on Monday, July 4, at 8pm.

The guest soloist is Jess Michelmore, musical director is Tracey Hansford, accompanist is

Aaron Twitchen, Samantha Day and Markus Birdman, with Cerys Nelmes as MC. Bar and box office 6pm, doors at 7.30pm, show at 8pm.

More information and tickets at wookey.co.uk/comedy-cavern

Theatre Open Day

This painting of Wells Market Square has been worked in cold wax and oil on board by Wendy Lovegrove, a long-standing member of Jesmarie’s Painters Shelley Prior, and Steve Jobbins will be on drums.

Tickets are £12 to include a glass of fizz and a programme, under 12s free. Tickets on the door or from Jane Savery, 01749 670527, or from Cadeaux & Co. The Cantabile Choir was founded by Tracey in 2001. The choir raises money for local charities each year and they have now raised more than £4,000 so far. They are hoping that this concert will take them over the £5,000 mark.

To join them for their next season which begins on September 8, contact Tracey on tchansford@outlook.com. No audition is necessary.

Traditional fete CHEWTON Mendip Village Fete is taking place on Saturday, July 2, from 3pm-6pm, in Church Lane, Chewton Mendip, in the playing field next to the church.

It will be a traditional village fete with a tea tent, bar, barbecue, games, stalls and bouncy castle. All payments by cash only.

The event is a fundraiser for Chewton Mendip Primary School PTA and the village church, and is being opened by Glastonbury Festival founder Michael Eavis.

WELLS Little Theatre is holding an Open Day on July 2, from 10am-2pm.

It will be an opportunity to discover how the theatre works, take part in activities and learn more about what goes on there.

Activities throughout the day will include backstage tours, fun drama sessions and costume displays. It will all be free.

Motorcycle run WELLS Classic Motorcycle Club’s 11th annual Tortoise and Hare Run is taking place over the weekend of July 15, 16 and 17. Setting off from Wells Football Club, The Hare Run is approximately 120 miles, The Tortoise Run approximately 80 miles and The Snail Route approximately 50 miles.

THE Comedy Cavern will return to Wookey Hole on Friday, July 22.

The venue welcomes known and up-and-coming stars who provide laughs aplenty.

Appearing on July 22 will be

To advertise, contact Andy on 01749 675157

Reading group PEOPLE are invited to “be part of a bigger story” by attending sessions of the Shared Reading group that meets on Fridays at Wells Library in Union Street from 2pm-3.30pm.

Anyone interested can just drop in to enjoy listening to a story and poems. There is no charge, no booking needed and no pressure to talk or read.

TAI CHI Connect Centre, Wells Mondays 6pm – 7pm £5 per class Bob 07791 291886

Photo exhibition LOCAL photographer Jason Bryant has chosen his favourite photographs taken at Glastonbury Festival over a period of 20 years for an exhibition at Somerset Rural Life Museum.

Music, Mud, Mayhem: Photographing Glastonbury Festival features more than 50 iconic performances from 1997 to 2019, including appearances

by Stormzy, Dolly Parton, Jay Z and David Bowie.

Jason said: “The images capture the crowds and

Comedy evening

the spectacle as well as the generosity and positivity which are so characteristic of the festival.”

The exhibition is open at the museum in Glastonbury from June 11 to September 4. Throughout the school summer holidays there will be an associated programme of family-friendly, festival-themed activities taking place.

Garden area tours AS part of Somerset Food Trail, Jo Stevenson, Community Gardener, is hosting informal and informative short tours of the Community Garden at The Bishop’s Palace, where fruit, veg and flowers are grown.

Participants will look around the growing spaces which include level and raised beds, and a greenhouse, and there will be a chance to ask questions and pick up some tips for growing at home.

The tours will be on July 19 at 11am and July 21 at 4.30pm. Each tour will last 30-45 minutes. Pre-booking is recommended as numbers are limited. Although there is no additional charge for this tour, a valid entry ticket or membership for The Bishop’s Palace is required.

Folk and Barn dance

Jason Bryant with Lily Allen at Glastonbury Festival

WELLS Folk and Barn Dance Club meets at Dinder Village Hall on Wednesdays from 7.30pm-9.30pm. Members £3.50, visitors £4. Tel: 01749 674920.

Email: sales@wellsvoice.co.uk

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July 2022

41

n WHAT’S ON

Young musicians preparing for weekend of free concerts THE third edition of WOWFest: Wells Orchestral Weekend, organised by The International Music Exchange (Wells), will welcome 150 young musicians to Wells for a series of free concerts from July 15-18.

The Opening Ceremony will take place in Cedars Hall at 4pm on Friday, July 15, with music for big bands of up to 40 musicians. On Saturday, July 16, Wells Cathedral will play host to a special concert for Unicef Ukraine, with works for choir and orchestra by Mozart, Mendelssohn, Williams and Warlock. This concert will feature the especially formed WOWFest Community Chorus, which welcomes all local singing enthusiasts to take part.

The Bishop’s Palace Gardens will again welcome young musicians across its drawbridge to perform picnic concerts from 4pm on Sunday, July 17, and the Festival will end with a Closing

WOWFest returns from July 15-18

Ceremony featuring choirs, orchestras and bands in Wells Town Hall on Monday, July 18, at 10am.

The full programme is: n Friday, July 15, 4pm.

Opening Ceremony, Cedars Hall, Wells: Bromley Youth Chamber Orchestra, St Cecilia’s Concert Tour Band. Free entrance n Saturday, July 16, 7pm.

Wells Cathedral: Bromley Youth Chamber Orchestra and WOWFest Community Chorus, Soprano Leila Saleh, Conductor Tim Wells. Free entrance with donations in aid of Unicef Ukraine Appeal. n Sunday, July 17, 4pm.

The Bishop’s Palace Gardens: Bromley Youth Concert Band, St Cecilia’s Concert Tour Band.

Admission to Palace applies. n Monday, July 18, 10am.

Closing Ceremony, Wells Town Hall: The Bluebelles, The Blue School Orchestra, Bromley Youth Concert Band, St Cecilia’s Concert Tour Band and Choir.

Free entrance.

There is more information at www.wellsyouthmusicfest.co.uk

Opportunities to enjoy some uplifting music Jane Hill reports on forthcoming activities by Wells City Band ON Saturday, July 2, between 10am and noon, and again on Saturday, July 16, between 2pm and 4pm, Wells City Band will be playing in the Market Place

by The Crown Hotel. Do come and enjoy some uplifting music again.

It has been a long break with Covid restrictions preventing us from playing for you all. While shopping or enjoying your tea or coffee and cake outside one of the cafes you will be able to

listen along and tap your feet to a varied programme.

The oft repeated comment we hear is “Oh, how we’ve missed seeing regular performers on our Bandstand.” At last, all things being equal, your band will be playing on the Bandstand on Sunday, July 24, from 2pm4pm. All our supporters will be welcome to cheer us on our return. You will have to bring your own chairs (and an umbrella as there is no wet weather provision). We aim to make tea and coffee available.

Do check with me if the weather

means we may have to cancel – decision made at 11am.

We invite you to join us at a Quiz Evening. It is to be held at The Venue Club on Saturday, August 20, from 7pm until 9.30pm. Please book either as a team of up to five people, or as an individual who can join a team. Numbers are limited.

The cost will be £8 per head including a snack meal (probably sausage and chips). This is a fundraising event to raise money for the Band.

Band Contact: Jane Hill – janehill546@aol.com

Summer fun in store at Dragon’s Lair

The Palace’s Dragon’s Lair play area

THE newly refurbished Dragon’s Lair play area at The Bishop’s Palace is open and ready to welcome little visitors this summer. Fitted with a climbing frame, pole jungle, a waterwheel and sluice gates, it is an ideal place for little ones to let their imaginations run wild.

And if the thought of the

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long school summer holidays is already provoking feelings of dread, there will be family trails at the Palace, storytelling (each Tuesday from August 2) and regular family crafting sessions (Thursdays starting on July 28).

No booking is required for any family sessions, just a valid admissions ticket.

Derek Nice

Exhibition held in celebration AN exhibition is being held at Heritage Courtyard Gallery in August in celebration of Derek Nice, a sculptor, painter, constructor, photographer and raconteur who died last year.

The show will be open at the Gallery in Heritage Courtyard, Sadler Street, Wells, from August 19-27, from 11am-4pm.

Proceeds will go to Ukraine Relief UK.

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TUESDAYS Pilates 9.15am Pilates seated seniors 10.30am WEDNESDAYS Barre 5pm • Pilates 6pm THURSDAYS Pilates 9.15am • Barre 10.30am Pilates 6pm All above classes at Wells Town Hall FRIDAYS Pilates 9am. Online via Zoom All classes mixed ability and prebooking only. Contact Sally at: zest2zen@gmail.com

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42

July 2022

n AROUND THE SOCIETIES CITY OF WELLS PROBUS CLUB CELEBRATING the easing of Covid restrictions, 35 club members, their wives and guests, travelled to Cambridge aboard a luxury coach provided by our long-standing travel partner, Barnes Coaches of Swindon.

The out-bound journey included at stop at Bekonscot, a delightful model village in Buckinghamshire. The next day saw us at Duxford Imperial War Air Museum. The display of aircraft was simply amazing, with several fly-pasts of Spitfires, Hurricanes and many other classic aircraft, not to mention all of the hangers full of aviation wonders. On the journey back to the hotel for the evening, a stop at the Cambridge American War Cemetery gave much food for thought and reflection.

Wednesday was a more leisurely time enjoying the sights of Cambridge city centre. Thursday saw us in Ely, visiting Ely Cathedral.

The more adventurous of us climbed the imposing Cathedral Lantern, with spectacular views internally inside the building, and externally across the Cambridgeshire fens. A short visit to the enchanting town of St Ives on the River Great Ouse finished the day’s outing.

Friday saw us on the way back home to Wells, but there was still more excitement to come as we ventured to Bletchley Park, the world-famous wartime code and cipher centre.

City of Wells Probus Club is one of many such clubs across the country and internationally.

Currently gentlemen only, retired or semi-retired, we meet on the second Tuesday morning of each month at Wells Golf Club with a series of talks followed by a social lunch. There are two coach trips per year, as well as other social events such as trips to local museums and other places of interest. Our ladies are always welcome to the social events. For further details contact the Club Secretary on 01749 870871.

City of Wells Probus Club members enjoyed a trip to Cambridge with Making Space Wells who made bunting for other areas in Wells. On the Thursday more than 50 members gathered in the function room of the museum to enjoy a cream tea along with homemade scones, and cakes.

The tables were decorated with flower arrangements by one of the members to accompany the red, white and blue theme.

On the Sunday, Wells u3a joined in the general celebrations with the rest of Wells. A small group of members, wearing their Wells u3a sashes, joined the parade around the market place into the Cathedral Green accompanied by the British Army Tidworth Marching Band.

A gazebo, decked with the u3a bunting, on the Cathedral Green was set up to entice new members and explain the wide variety of subjects and activities people can do in their retirement or any spare time they like to fill.

Meanwhile all the activities of Wells u3a continues. All members were able to attend the monthly talk, in June, being given by Gordon Brockman, senior valuer and auctioneer at Killens Mendip Auction rooms.

Not only did he explain the long, hard road to gaining all the knowledge to reach his present position in the world of antiques but also, with the help of several objects, explained how easy it is

WELLS TUESDAY WI

WELLS U3A WELLS u3a threw themselves into the celebrations for the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee. They started by a group of members getting together to make bunting for the bandstand as agreed

to be drawn into buying a fake.

Art appreciation learnt about the works of Thomas Lawence, in particular the portrait of Lady Peel, wife of the Prime Minister, Robert Peel, along with a video from the Frick Museum where the portrait can be found.

Another group which is well worth joining at this time of the year is Bird Watching.

They meet every fourth Tuesday in the month and set off with binoculars in hand and find a suitable place or places to seek out hopefully rare birds. On the first Tuesday of the month there is a group that studies all aspects of our Environment from the global population to the effect this has on our planet and resources.

One way to discover how to join Wells u3a is to join members at one of their coffee mornings, either at The Bishop’s Table at The Bishop’s Palace 10.30am11.30am or on a Friday at the Connect Centre also 10.30am11.30am, where you will be able to meet a representative from Wells u3a who can tell you all about us. Otherwise, you can go to the website u3asites.org.uk/ wells/home where you can read about all the groups available and download an application form.

Ann Brown

Wells u3a members in the jubilee parade on June 5

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PRESIDENT Anne and Secretary Val went to the National AGM in Liverpool. The resolution to campaign for greater recognition and treatment for women and girls with Autism and ADHD was adopted with almost unanimous support. They enjoyed talks from parliament’s Black Rod Sarah Clarke; the Presidents of the Scottish and Northern Irish WI Federations; and an expert on

modern slavery (the WI funded research in this area as a result of the 2020 resolution).

This month our meeting consisted of a visit to Wells Almshouses. Forty-seven members were greeted by the CEO Martin before being taken on a tour by Trustee Charles and resident James. We started with an introduction in the Guildroom. We learned that the five almshouse buildings provide 33 units of accommodation for single older people in housing need. There is a mix of onebedroom flats and cottages, on two sites on either side of Priest Row. The earliest was founded in the 15th century through a legacy provided from the estate of the former Bishop of Bath and Wells and Treasurer to King Henry IV, Nicholas Bubwith. Bubwith’s Almshouse is located next to St Cuthbert’s Churchyard.

Masons’ marks reveal how the wooden beams for the frame were constructed and numbered off site, to aid assembly and construction.

In the early 17th century an alderman of the city, Henry Llewellyn, left a legacy to build a further series of almshouses, on a separate site in Priest Row, to the north of St Cuthbert’s Church. More accommodation was provided through legacies from Bishop Still and Bishop Willes and in 1637 the Bubwith site was expanded again through a legacy from Walter Brick, a burgess of the city. Although rebuilt many times in their history, and now amalgamated into a single Trust, they are still known as Bubwith’s, Still’s, Brick’s, Willes’ and Llewellyn’s.

At times in its past the building has housed Wells Town Council, and the Blue School.

We were guided around the interesting buildings,

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July 2022

43

n AROUND THE SOCIETIES including a Victorian morgue that is being converted to living accommodation, and the beautiful gardens tended by residents and Heads Up volunteers. We ended in the chapel where James answered all our questions.

We heard about future plans and hopes that national lottery heritage funding will enable the Chapel to be restored and made suitable for community events.

Anyone over 50 can apply to live at the almshouses, providing they have a Wells connection and no other home. There are seven people on the waiting list.

In other news this month the photographers and crafters are meeting, and some members will be going on a tour of the Glastonbury Festival site before the music and fun starts.

Although the official County Quiz has been cancelled, our keen quizzers are lining up to compete in an unofficial alternative.

We meet on the first Tuesday evening of each month at Wells & Mendip Museum. Our next meeting will be on July 5 when we look forward to being serenaded by Shepton Mallet Ukelele band in the garden.

More information can be found on our Facebook page: facebook.com/Wellssomersetwi Veronica Howe ST THOMAS WOMEN’S FELLOWSHIP AS with many other organisations, we decided to plant a tree to commemorate the Platinum Jubilee of our Queen.

We met with volunteers at the Tor Street garden in Wells to get their agreement on the type of tree and the positioning of it, and subsequently on Sunday, May 29, some of our members attended for the ceremonial planting and placing of a plaque.

Luckily the weather was sunny and warm enabling us to enjoy tea and cake afterwards.

On June 1, for our usual monthly meeting we again celebrated, this time with a delicious buffet supper provided by the members, a topical quiz and singing, especially a robust rendition of Land of Hope and Glory accompanied by enthusiastic flag waving and ending the evening with the Vera Lynn classic We’ll Meet Again. The committee had decorated the hall with a lovely

The Wookey Hole WI garden party, top; and St Thomas Women’s Fellowship members at the tree planting in Tor Street garden flower arrangement, plenty of flags, balloons and red, white and blue table coverings, and everyone joined in the spirit of the occasion by dressing in red, white and blue as well. It was good to recognise such a momentous time and one which we enjoyed enormously.

Our next meeting is on July 6 when we welcome Sarah Villiers who is an excellent and very entertaining speaker. If any lady would like to come along at 7pm to St Thomas’ Church Hall as a guest or even a prospective member we would be pleased to see you.

Pat Dyer WOOKEY HOLE WI WOOKEY Hole WI celebrated the Jubilee with a garden party to which members of five other WIs were invited including our area advisor.

It was good to meet up with fellow WI ladies, especially those from the recently formed Wells Monday WI. A display of 14 Coronation and Jubilee teapots and mugs were on display. They formed

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a backdrop to a delicious bring and share tea and a large Jubilee cake. Everyone received a small basket of flowers as a souvenir.

Our club have arranged for five trees to be planted on our behalf to commemorate the 70 years of our Queen’s reign Our next meeting is at Wookey Hole Community Hall on Monday, July 4, at 2.30pm.

Visitors are most welcome. Ring 01749 675477 for further details.

Jill Deane WELLS & DISTRICT GARDENING CLUB OVER in Northern Ireland, where they do things differently, my brother was once going around the local golf course when at the bottom of the fairway he met a chap trudging up and down through the long grass of the rough. This was a proper rough as they have across the borders.

“Hello, lost your ball?”

“Yes, but don’t tell anybody, I’ve lost my club as well!”

Garden writers, broadcasters, folk we might even call pundits, have been urging us all to take

a more relaxed approach to our gardens, to leave the mower in the shed, to let the grass grow, thereby encouraging the wildlife which is ever-ready waiting in the wings to take over. They named this notion ‘No mow May’. Plus June of course, and then July. One chap suggested that, if we kept our eyes open, we could have ox-eye daisies springing up in abundance.

And, if we were lucky, he said, we may have orchids appearing, purple, pyramidal, and even bee orchids. Now, there was no mention about the author’s qualification in Sanskrit, but giving us the impression that a wildflower meadow will spring up overnight without the least bit of preparation struck me as a tad optimistic. Nor did the article mention the audience this fellow had in mind. Monty Don, on the other hand, sloshed a handful of cold water on the idea by a cautious timetable; in order to achieve this perfection it would require several years of, let’s face it, toil. There are hazards as we have seen, things not being simple.

So, long grass remains long grass. Or does it? There is much more to grass than lawn clippings. As soon as it matures, ordinary grass becomes extraordinary and in greater variety than we thought. Cock’s Foot, Meadow grass, Yorkshire Fog, Timothy and many more, all different and adding charm and character to what was a humdrum flat piece of green especially if you have made pathways through it with that old mower and we shouldn’t want our gardens to resemble American golf courses. Let us leave perfection in the hands of the professionals and garden our gardens in the way we want them to be whether the grass be short or long, neat or untidy. In this garden wildness abounds. In fact in certain corners the wild becomes positively savage. Well, if you like that sort of thing, that’s the sort of thing you like.

Keep gardening and never mind the pundits.

If you are in want of a few ideas, go visiting. The Wells Gardening Club is going by coach to Stogumber Open Gardens on July 10. Phone 01749 673244 or see website for details.

Pip Harwood u More reports on pages 44&45

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44

July 2022

n AROUND THE SOCIETIES AVALON STITCHERS AVALON Stitchers will be holding its first AGM in July – it has been an exciting year with the group looking forward to exploring new areas of stitch and working with all manner of textiles, fibre and thread yet staying true to the beauty of traditional methods of needlecraft.

As the country was ‘getting back to normal’ a successful exhibition at Wells Museum in October resulted in several new members bringing fresh enthusiasm to the group.

The next exhibition is scheduled for October 14-21, 2023.

The Chairperson’s Christmas Challenge was a collaboration with Strode College to design a logo. Textiles student, Amy’s design was interpreted in stitch by group members who then voted on their preferred choice – Avalon Stitchers is finding its own identity.

During the year members have enjoyed workshops led by talented West Country textile artists including Viv White, Gary Mills, Rachel Sumner and Alison Whateley and a member-led workshop focussing on Design in Stitch (who hasn’t sat with pencil and paper wondering where to begin?).

A day of mini-workshops meant everyone tried something new: hardanger embroidery, crochet, organza flowers or Dorset buttons – an informal day, enjoyed by everyone who, if they didn’t take home a finished item, at least went away with inspiration.

Travelling Books kept members connected when meetings were sometimes cancelled and the 15 books never failed to amaze with stunning contributions from all those taking part. These books showcase the diversity of talent and demonstrate the joy of creativity in very personal works of art. The current ‘journey’ finishes soon; another is planned later in the year when ‘travellers’ will have different themes to stretch the imagination.

It’s a great opportunity to meet socially and enjoy stitching in the company of likeminded friends. Time spent in this way has proved to be valuable, especially during the last two years, in supporting mental health and wellbeing. The group spans a wide age range, with

Work by Avalon Stitchers many talents and levels of expertise from beginners to experienced – we all have something to contribute and there is always something to learn.

The group meets monthly at Ashcott Village Hall. Please visit the website www.avalonstitchers. org where you will find more information and contact details.

WELLS FLORAL ART CLUB ON Tuesday, June 14, club members and guests met to be entertained by Melanie Smith, flower arranger, teacher and florist from Basingstoke. Her demonstration, Postcards From France, told the story of her time spent on holiday there.

Her first arrangement was of a large window box full of purple delphiniums, sunflowers and white spray chrysanthemums which were prominent in the first village at which they stopped. Although they were there in the summer they visited Chamonix to see Mont Blanc, and her second design of white antirrhinums and avalanche roses represented the winter skiing resort. Then she travelled south and a display of palm leaves, orange Asiatic lilies and orange and red geminis suggested the heat of a summer day.

Following the west coast of France her next design was in cooler colours of green carnations, soft pink roses and cerise and pink geminis. Her final arrangement was of a memory of the seafood she ate in Calais. A lampshade represented a willow lobster pot which was decorated with red anthuriums and green carnations suggesting the fish in the sea. Teas were served by Denny Johnson and Ros Edney and the vote of thanks was given by Sylvia Ingham.

The next demonstration will be on Tuesday, July 12, when Sue Neale will present Wine, Women and Song at 2.15pm in St

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Thomas’ Church Hall, Wells.

Also in the church hall, the final event before our summer break will be our charity tea in aid of The Macular Society – the Wells Support Group.

On Saturday, July 30, at 2pm a demonstration, Carrying on Walking by Rosemary Kerr, will be followed by a cream tea.

Tickets are £12 from Gill on 01749 870389 or gilltcook@ gmail.com, all profits will go to the charity.

Jenny Jones

Jenny advised us of various events that were currently happening of interest.

Alison came first in the ‘item of jewellery’ competition, and flower of the month was won by Pat. We had a raffle also.

We meet again on July 5 at the Memorial Hall, visitors are most welcome.

Ursula Dann

COXLEY & DISTRICT WI COXLEY ladies met for a very informative evening on June 7.

This was because our speaker was Linda Fisher, discussing probate and asset management.

We were told not only how important it is to have a will, but how equally important it is to check it every three to five years to make sure it is still valid to us individually, as our circumstances can be subject to changes over time.

The importance of Lasting Power of Attorney was also discussed, and how important it is for everyone to have, whatever their age. A bit like an insurance policy, hopefully never needed, but vital to have in place if the unfortunate does happen. Then we talked about the subject of inheritance tax. All very enlightening and much enjoyed by all. We asked many questions, which were readily answered.

For our WI business, we discussed our sub groups, book club, craft group, lunch club and walking group. Up and coming dates and choices were noted.

Somerset truffle farmer Paul Dean WELLS MEN’S BREAKFAST DID you know that there is a truffle farm in Somerset?

It has specially trained dogs than can sniff these highly prized fungi which grow underground.

The farm is owned by Paul Dean who will give a talk about all things truffle to the Wells Men’s Breakfast at 8am on Saturday, July 2, in the Connect Centre.

The Wells Men’s Breakfast is free of any political or religious affiliation and welcomes men of all ages to share a full English breakfast followed by a 25-minute talk with questions from the floor for £10 on the door.

Melanie Smith gave a demonstration to Wells Floral Art Club

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July 2022

Dr Philip Hickman gave a talk about Wells Cathedral at the June meeting of Wells Civic Society WELLS CIVIC SOCIETY ERUDITION exemplified: this was the treat quietly and expertly proffered by Dr Philip Hickman to the audience at the June meeting of the Wells Civic Society, as he charted the physical construction of the magnificent Wells Cathedral, and along the way gave far more than a nod to its ecclesiastical significance, which has seen changes in its eight centuries, particularly with regard to its relationship with Bath.

Appetites were whetted by Philip’s first, glorious slide; the world famous full frontal of the magnificent west front.

Without doubt, no abseilers were to be seen on this occasion.

But he immediately then took us back to a time when, almost unbelievably as it seems now, there was no such cathedral, but a Saxon minster a few yards away and, interestingly, aligned slightly differently from today’s cathedral and, actually, looking more directly down High Street.

It was not, however, until 909 in the reign of Edward the Elder, son of King Alfred the Great, that St Andrew’s church became a cathedral and the first bishop of Wells – not Bath and Wells – was appointed.

But that was not considered grand enough for Bishop John de Villula about 200 years later, who had designs upon the more prestigious Bath. So he moved there, made himself Bishop of Bath, and drastically downgraded Wells.

But the pendulum swung.

Wells regained its original status, and by 1180 the concept of “a great church for Wells”, and all that is implicit in that description, had taken hold, and by 1250 not only was the diocese of Bath and Wells firmly established but the glorious

new church, built in a new Gothic style, having moved away from the Norman, became The Cathedral Church of St Andrew at Wells.

It was by no means, of course, exactly as we have it today, though. For instance, the central tower was nothing like so tall.

Then, when it was raised to its present height in the early 1300s, it was felt that the additional weight was causing a sagging and tilting by as much as four inches.

So arches were reinforced, internal flying buttresses were introduced, and the magnificent and famous inverted arches, the scissor arches, were built, essentially as props to the new tower. The most notable recent additions include: in the 1920s the crucified Christ, so strikingly visible from the nave; and in 1986 at the pinnacle of the theatrical west front, the new statue of Christ in Majesty.

And, originally, there would have been colour: colour everywhere, inside and out; vivid technicolour.

Various revolutions, attempted reformations and iconoclasts have not only damaged an appreciable amount of the statuary but also whitewashed over this kaleidoscope. In the mid-1800s, the whitewash was removed in what came to be known as the great scrape.

Unfortunately, this was so vigorous that much of what did remain of the medieval colours was also removed.

Philip’s clear, concise and detailed delivery, backed up by sophisticated illustrative slides, and borne of his extraordinary knowledge, was an expert chronicling of aspects of the development of the cathedral over the ages.

The next civic society event before its annual holiday sees it breaking new ground with its summer social on Wednesday, July 13, from 6pm. Everyone is welcome to come along to the newly developed garden of Wells Museum, off Cathedral Green.

Although still a work in progress and one being assisted by the civic society, this has already become a delightful spot in which to enjoy Pimms and strawberries.

Indoors if weather inclement, of course. Please email the chair, Chris Winter, at chair@wells civic society.org.uk or go to www.wellscivicsociety.org.uk for further details about the society.

Richard Hanks

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45

Action from the tournament organised by Wells Boxing Club that took place at Wookey Hole Caves at the end of May

Club open to all over age of ten BOXING WELLS Boxing Club would welcome new members to attend its gym at Milton Priory House, Gate Lane, Wells.

It is an amateur club affiliated to the England Amateur Boxing Association, with coaches Andy Lovell, Graham Kelly and Clive Gadd plus helpers being DBS checked. All coaches have completed the ABA first aid course.

The club is open to all ages and ability over ten years old, from competing boxers to those who wish to follow a non-contact recreational boxing fitness regime.

Club sessions take place on Monday and Wednesday, for juniors from 6.30pm-7.15pm and for seniors from 7.15pm8.30pm, and on Friday from 6.30pm-7.45pm. Admission is £2 junior, £3 senior per evening (there is no membership charge).

More good news on Junior front GOLF MORE good news on the Junior front at Mendip Golf Club with 11-year-old Alec Roberts selected for a friendly match for Somerset Juniors v Gloucestershire, and with 14-year-old Connie Cox gaining the best net in the Saltford Junior Open and following this up with winning the English Golf EG event with 42 points at Kendleshire.

102 competitors played in the Jock Callaghan medal event.

Winning with a fine net 64 was young Ben Roberts.

91 Seniors played in the Bill

Smith Cup. The winner was Andy Humphries.

96 Seniors supported Seniors Captain Steve Davis with his Charity Day to raise funds for the British Heart Foundation.

Sam Scriven ran the Beat the Pro competition on the 8th, there was a putting event and free cake in the clubhouse. The Winning Team were Simon Atkinson, Kevin Carmody, Bryan Lewis and David Pilbeam with 109 points.

Best Individual card: Julian Pallister with 42 points. However the biggest winner on the day was the Heart Foundation with £2,800 raised at the latest count.

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July 2022

n TAKE A BREAK

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Advice given on energy efficiency RICHARD Ryan from Wells-based energy business Gridimp was guest speaker at an eco-themed networking event hosted by Mendip Business Hub. More than 30 businesses from a variety of sectors attended the event at The George Inn, Nunney.

Richard presented his top tips on how businesses can better manage their energy consumption to reduce their carbon footprint and save money.

He said: “I was encouraged to see just how many local businesses were already engaged in either actively reducing their carbon footprint and improving their sustainability, or were providing supporting services in those areas.

“Energy is a particularly important topic currently and given there is no price cap on non-domestic tariffs, I was grateful for the opportunity to share some advice on the most important steps businesses can take to manage their energy costs and carbon emissions.”

Councillor Simon Carswell, Mendip District Council’s Portfolio Holder for Economic Development, said: “The fact that so many people attended our event is evidence that Mendip businesses are concerned about climate change and are seeking solutions to future-proof their companies.

“This event proved a perfect platform for conversations around balancing a viable, profitable business with the need to take care of our planet.”

The Mendip Business Hub is a council service that works with businesses in the district by providing expert advice, guidance, and support. It is a one-stopshop for information, networking opportunities, consultancy, and events.

The next Mendip Business Hub event is due to take place in early to mid-July. More at mendip.gov.uk/businesshub

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SUMMER AT THE BISHOP'S PALACE, WELLS JULY Wellbeing Walks - first Sunday of every month 7th July - War of the Worlds 14th & 15th July - Opera Brava 15th July - Grow Your Own Cut Flowers Workshop 17th July - WowFest at the Palace (Wells Orchestral Weekend) 19th & 21st July - Community Garden Tour, part of Wells Food Trail

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23rd July - 1st Sept - Summer Holiday Family Trails 24th July - As You Like It 28th July - Summer Holiday Family Crafting 31st July - Dracula

AUGUST Wellbeing Walks - first Sunday of every month 2nd, 9th, 16th, 23rd & 30th Aug - Summer Holiday Family Storytelling 4th, 11th, 18th & 25th Aug - Summer Holiday Family Crafting 11th Aug - Jane Eyre 18th Aug - Awful Auntie 27th - 29th Aug - Summer Holiday Medieval Weekend with Bowlore Plus exhibitions, yoga, thai chi, tree walks, the refurbished Dragon's Lair play area, Bishop's Table cafe, 14 acres of RHS partner gardens and medieval Palace building.

ADMISSION: The People's Ticket - 12 months of return visits on any normal sightseeing day. Events in italics are ticketed.

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