Wells Voice June 2018 by Wells Voice

wellsvoice June 2018 Issue 12

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Project to plant poppies made by all city’s pupils PRIMARY school teacher Dan Vidler is embarking on an ambitious project to get every schoolchild in Wells to make a poppy to be planted in front of The Bishop’s Palace in time for this year’s Remembrance Day. The field of 8,000 poppies would represent everyone from Somerset, or who served in a Somerset regiment, who lost their life in the First World War, which ended 100 years ago. “I’ve been planning The Somerset Poppies for 18 months,” said Dan, an artist and a teacher at Coxley Primary School. “It was inspired by the poppies at the Tower of London and the Shrouds of the Somme by Rob Heard. This continues the idea of Remembrance and will help educate the children about it. I also like the idea of kids being involved in larger scale arts projects.” The poppies will have petals made of rubber, and wire stems. They would be planted in the Continued on page 8

Picture: Alain Lockyer, Somerset Photo News

‘I’ve made the longest journey’ Peter celebrates completing classic car tour drive he thought he might never manage again after overcoming bowel cancer Turn to pages 4 & 5

Big challenge for pumpkin growers Competition includes prize of £1,000 for heaviest pumpkin grown this summer Turn to page 12

Parking charges will be going up Baked to perfection: Zoe’s amazing cake creations have starring role – page 3

Councillors approve increase that will see hourly rates in Wells rise by between 10p and 50p Turn to page 15

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June 2018

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Zoe’s cake creations a feast for the eyes TWO charities have benefited from the dazzling creations of a Wells cake-maker. Zoe Burmester of Sugar Street Studios was commissioned to make something special to mark the opening of two new furniture stores. She came up with a waist high bust of a 1940s lady that required 48 eggs, and a medical research themed cake that took four days to make. “It’s an absolute privilege to be able to provide a show stopping cake centrepiece for someone’s special day. It speaks to the child in all of us and simply put, cake makes people happy,” said Zoe. The cakes were commissioned by Oak Furniture Land to celebrate the opening of new stores in Weston-super-Mare and Bath. The 2ft-high 1940s lady cake was a vanilla sponge filled with old fashion vanilla butter creme and berry compote. The head, arms, hair and retro microphone were made from marshmallow rice crispie treats. It was donated to Alzheimer’s Society in Weston-super-Mare

Zoe Burmester with her medical research and 1940s lady cakes Pictures: Anna Barclay Photography / Alain Lockyer, Somerset Photo News

and was shared with guests at the charity’s 1940s tea dance. The vintage research cake tableau was made up of seven chocolate fudge and salted caramel cakes, and the edible magnifying glass was made from edible sugar glass. It was donated to Alzheimer’s Society in Bath and shared with

Plan to open Moat tea garden A TEA garden overlooking The Bishop’s Palace Moat could open later this year if plans submitted to Mendip District Council are approved. The plans are for a timber shepherd’s hut with metal roof in the grounds of Park Cottage, Silver Street, with three or four tables for customers. The application also seeks the demolition of part of the boundary wall and the construction of pedestrian

access from the Moat side. “There’s nowhere really overlooking the Moat where you can sit and have a cup of tea,” said Stephen Reading of agents Collier Reading Architects in Wells. “It would be good for the area and more of a draw to the other end of the Moat.” Park Cottage was recently bought by new owners, who are also planning improvement work on the house.

New store advertising for staff PETS Corner has started recruiting staff for its new branch in Princes Road, Wells. The pet supplies and pet care chain is seeking dog grooming stylists to groom and style dogs in the Dogwood grooming spa. The full-time role, which is being advertised on totaljobs. com, has a salary of up to £18,000 a year.

volunteers and researchers at the University of Bath, who carry out research into dementia. Originally a film and TV set stylist, Zoe made the move int0 cake-making after making her son his first novelty birthday cake. She is now an award-winning cake artist and sugarcraft tutor working from a dedicated studio at Dinder. In addition to creating cake sculptures for businesses, parties and weddings she also holds sugarcraft classes, and provides sugarcraft tutorials on the Sugar Street Studios’ Youtube channel. “The popularity of artistic cakes has just exploded in the past few years, and an appreciation for edible art is what motivates me,” she said. “One of the biggest compliments I get about my work, is when people say, ‘That’s a cake? Never!’ And then to put the proverbial cherry on top, they get to eat it.”

The company is also recruiting full and part time trainee stylists for which the rate of pay is £7.83 per hour. Pets Corner is taking one of the two new units being built at Princes Road, though the company says it does not have an opening date yet. The other unit will be a Dominos pizza takeaway.

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June 2018

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Classic car drive a remarkable milestone WHEN Peter Butler drove his treasured MG on to Wells Cathedral Green in the Mendip Vintage & Classic Car Tour it was the end of a particularly long journey. After being diagnosed with bowel cancer two years ago, undergoing an 11-hour operation and enduring long bouts of chemotherapy, he wondered whether he would ever get behind the wheel of his car again. But of the dozens of drivers parking their vehicles on the Cathedral Green for onlookers to admire, Peter, who lives in Wells, had the biggest smile. “This is a huge day for me,” he said. “As far as I’m concerned I’ve made the longest journey today. I shouldn’t be here really.” It was Peter’s first drive in his 1952 MGTD after surgery, and his nephew travelled with him ready to take over at the wheel in case it got too much. “You remember lying in the

Peter Butler at the wheel of his 1952 MGTD on Wells Cathedral Green at the end of the classic car run

‘A cancer diagnosis needn’t be the end of your story’ Here, Peter Butler describes his experience of cancer in his own words, and passes on advice to others in a similar position ONE of my challenges after being diagnosed with serious bowel cancer in 2016 was to resume my ‘love affair’ with my classic car as soon as possible after the surgery, intensive chemotherapy, and recuperation. I realised the first significant part of that challenge on the Mendip Tour on May 13 when I drove my beloved British Racing Green MGTD the 100 miles from Wells to Burnham-on-Sea, then to the Haynes Motor Museum at Sparkford and back to Wells Cathedral Green for the finish. It may not seem that far for most of you but for me it represented the ‘longest journey’ after being diagnosed. More importantly I would like to think it offers up optimism and hope to others facing what is certainly one of life’s most difficult hurdles. At any age to be told you have serious cancer is extremely frightening; accepting you might die when in your mind you have

Peter Butler: ‘Adopt a positive attitude and sense of challenge’ planned so much more with your life is simply debilitating; from valuable you are suddenly valueless. But it needn’t be the end of your story. With the magic of surgery and medicine there is hope, and you yourself can add so much more by adopting a positive attitude and sense of challenge. As the saying goes now, “Life is still life even with cancer”. My MG added to my personal

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sense of achievement because when I left college in 1964, my mother gave me £500 to set me on my way in life. My parents had little money and no house of their own, so basically it was her way of saying: “Here’s your legacy, use it wisely.” I bought an MGTD with the money which upset her quite a lot, and so it was a great relief to her when I reluctantly sold it a year later for £750. I remember her saying “That’s better, you’re learning at last.” It still makes me smile but I was upset at having to part company with TD, and at that point promised myself that one day I would once again own an identical car. It took over half a century but five years ago I bought a forlorn TD and with a ‘little help from my friends’ restored it to its former glory so that now it may enjoy the admiration it deserves. It makes me feel pretty good too, of course. Happily it’s not quite the end of the story either. While lying in hospital with tubes attached in every direction, to cheer myself up I went online and purchased

a barn-find 1958 Hillman Minx Convertible. It represented something to aim for and the next challenge. After restoration, I decided it would be hooked up to a vintage caravan also recently purchased, painted in matching colours and offered to those cancer sufferers in need of a ‘cheer me up’ break, plus being made available at selected events to raise funds for the charities involved in what is one of the most terrifying illnesses of all. Although my journey to make Wells Cathedral Green may have seemed long and sometimes painful, after witnessing in the Beacon Centre cancer unit in Taunton so many of all ages much worse off than myself, I recognise what a lucky man I am. My message is simple: if you have been diagnosed with serious cancer, a positive attitude and healthy challenges (as it has with me) will help you along your journey. It’s what being strong actually looks like. Although tears and laughter may always be close together, keep telling yourself “I will make it!” You can contact me by emailing pb@powerboatlive.com.

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June 2018

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on road to recovery hospital bed and wondering whether you’ll ever do it again,” said Peter. “I wanted to do it. It was the first big challenge of coming back.” He said that one side-effect of chemotherapy had been numb fingers and feet. He also lost his hair: “It’s come back curly. People think I’ve had a perm.” Peter’s father was a director of Sheldons in Wells. He himself used to be a TV commentator and then producer with his own weekly show (The Fastrax) on Sky Sports, eventually finishing up in Qatar as the TV director for their world powerboat teams. Now he wants to give hope to other people that they too can overcome the fears of cancer and find enjoyment in life. “It is easy to get down and to think what’s the point in carrying on? Positivity will carry you through,” he said. “At the moment my pancreas and liver are clear. I’m in

remission which means I’ve got years, but who knows?” A classical music lover, one day he would like to organise a series of fundraising concerts around the country, and encourage people to talk more openly about cancer. He has also bought a caravan which he plans to make available to people with cancer who want to get away for a break. More than 150 vehicles took part in this year’s 100-mile Mendip tour, which is organised by the Classic & Historic Motor Club, and for which Macmillan Cancer Support was once again the nominated charity. To complete his own vintage look for the day, Peter bought a suitcase and a striped blazer on eBay. It made him smile even more than he was already when somebody in a similar blazer approached him on the Cathedral Green and asked whether they had gone to the same school.

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June 2018

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Impact being made in plastics campaign Rocky CAMPAIGNERS have been busy and Meredith Mountain Nursery spreading the message about the Roberts for their harmful effects of plastic and informative talks.” at Masbury has a bin where plastic pots working towards their goal of The meeting can be donated for making Wells a Plastic Free city. was followed by reuse free of At a well attended meeting a concert in the charge. in the Town Hall on April 28 Town Hall which organised by Plastic Free Wells, raised £731.60 for the a number of speakers Surfers Against Sewage discussed the problem charity that is leading the and what can be fight against plastic. Morrisons manager Pete Silk talks to members of Plastic Free Wells The Old Deanery done about it. “I would like to den Project will be Gar and Lidl in July, following one at address them to the CEO (Rob “We managed thank Wells City using coir pots rather Tesco in April. Collins). Hand the returns into to cover a range Council and the the for s one stic than pla Tom said of the action at the Customer Service desk. It’s of issues,” said Town Hall staff for t nex its at sale of plants Waitrose: “The event is a very peaceful demonstration Tom Ronan their generosity and en Day on June 16. Op for those who want and everyone is welcome to of Plastic Free help with organising in ted sen pre be l wil y Wells Library is The to help us make join us just before noon on Wells. the meeting and of bits from de hosting an Oceans of crates ma an impact on a June 2.” “Huge thanks fundraiser,” said Tom. . ber Plastic information day recycled tim single day and Manager Pete Silk to Zac and George Plastic Free supported by Plastic Fre demonstrate e talked to campaigners who told us about the Wells members were We lls on June 2 from people power outside the store during reduction in single use at Morrisons on May 5 for a 9.30am-1.30pm, which by returning all the protest at Morrisons. plastics in the Blue School thanks ‘Return the Plastic’ event, to will include activities non-recyclable The company has said to pupils like themselves pushing hand back excess and nonfor children. plastics and it is taking steps to reduce for change. Thank you also to recyclable plastic packaging. packaging to the plastic pollution, including Tessa Munt, Nick Cater, Denise Similar protests will be staged supermarket that you no longer selling plastic drinking Wiltshire, Laura Sorenson at Waitrose in Wells on June 2 purchased the products from. straws or 5p carrier bags, “Take them back loose or put and making more packaging Find us on Facebook: them together in a package and recyclable.

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LOC AL INFORMATION

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

Wells City Council www.wells.gov.uk 01749 673091 Police www.avonandsomerset.police.uk General inquiries: 101 Fire www.dsfire.gov.uk General inquiries: 01392 872 200 NHS www.nhs.uk Urgent calls: 111

YOUR VIE WS

JULY DEADLINE

Letters for publication can be sent by email to news@wellsvoice.co.uk. We reserve the right to edit letters.

To ensure your news or letter is included in the July edition, please contact us by June 13.

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 a member of the Independent Community News Network and adheres to guidelines set out in the Editor’s Code of Practice. The paper is distributed each month to Wells residents and left at local pick-up points. Feedback is always welcomed – email news@wellsvoice.co.uk

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Recycling centres can now take plastic food pots, tubs and trays THE biggest change to plastics recycling in Somerset in almost a decade is underway at the county’s 16 recycling sites. Somerset Waste Partnership has announced that every recycling site is now taking plastic food pots, tubs and trays – the rigid plastic containers for yoghurt, margarine, fruit and other foods – as well as all plastic bottles. It is a leap forward in the planned transformation of Somerset waste services from 2020, including the end of

Recycling centres are now taking more plastic waste

landfilling rubbish and phased roll out of the new ‘Recycle More’ weekly kerbside collections taking extra bulky but light plastics, with three-weekly collections of the emptier refuse bins. The plastic bottle and PTT skips will take black plastic food trays, but residents must: n Remove all foil, film covers, and cardboard attached to or enclosing the PTT. n Discard all lids, flip-caps and trigger-tops from plastic bottles. n Rinse out food residues or other contents, and squash items to fit more in each skip. They must also exclude: n Thin plastics, such as cling film, carrier bags, black sacks, or bubble wrap. n Plastic plant or paint pots, with or without any contents. n Other plastics, such as plastic toys, CD cases, garden furniture or car parts.

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June 2018

Summer has arrived and what a month we have had… glorious sunshine, beautiful weddings and, as always, delicious food. Changes to the menu bring a welcome return for ribeye steak, pan-fried hake and the classic, beautifully created desserts made by our in-house pastry consultant Damien Wager. We wish Damien the best of luck following his nomination for Best Young Chef of 2018 in the British Restaurant Awards. Thank you to those who joined us for locals night – see you all again soon. Tudor & Lucy Hopkins

IN SEASON THIS MONTH FROM CHEF CHRIS WALL

From the land Asparagus, broccoli, lamb, radishes, courgette, artichoke, raspberries and peas From the sea Mackerel, sardines, cod, sea bream, haddock, john dory, lobster and crab

SEASONAL CHOICES FROM OUR MENU Wye valley asparagus £6.50 Poached egg, hollandaise Pan-fried hake £15.75 Fricassee of peas, broad beans, wild garlic, Jersey Royals, sauce vierge

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NEWS FROM SADLER’S ONE DOOR CLOSES ANOTHER OPENS

We are sad to report we have had to say goodbye to our head chef Jason Porter. Jason has done wonderful things with us in the past and we wish him all the best for the future as we welcome our new head chef, Chris Wall. Chris, has already treated us to some fantastic new dishes and with a new head chef comes a new menu so watch this space as there are exciting things to come!

LOCALS NIGHT EVERY WEDNESDAY £8.50 / PERSON

Local’s night has been a great success and we are so happy to invite you, as the local community, in joining us every Wednesday night from 6:30- 7:30. As it gets busier it is advisable to book to avoid any disappointment. For just £8.50 per person we are offering a glass of wine and chefs choice of main meal of the day. Why not put your feet up and let us do the hard work?

WIN LUNCH FOR TWO IN SADLER’S BRASSERIE Just answer this question: Name two dishes that are on our menu (apart from the ones we mentioned here). You can find the answers on Sadler’s Brasserie website www.sadlersbrasserie.com Please email your answer to competition@sadlersbrasserie.com Last month’s winner: Ellie Powell

Sadler Street, Wells, Somerset BA5 2RR | www.sadlersbrasserie.com | 01749 672056

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June 2018

n NEWS Cathedral plans knitted display

Dan Vidler with examples of the poppies he would like to see appearing at The Bishop’s Palace for Remembrance

Project to plant Remembrance poppies made by every pupil From page 1 Palace’s Croquet Lawn on November 10 where the public would be able to view them for a week. They would then go on display inside the Palace before being sold to raise money for charities including the Royal British Legion and SSAFA. Dan estimates that it will cost £13,500 to complete the project, mainly due to the cost of materials, and he is seeking financial backing from the local community. Wells Chamber of Commerce and Tourism agreed to donate £100 after a presentation by Dan about the project at the chamber meeting in May. Anyone else who would like

to donate will soon be able to do so online, but for now Dan can be contacted by emailing DVidler@ educ.somerset.gov.uk. “I’m delighted to hear of this amazing project and as a member of the Wells branch of the Royal British Legion, fully support Dan in this,” said Derek Cooper, the Poppy Appeal organiser for Wells. “We hope people will get behind the project as well. To have the young involved in this act of remembrance is so important so that future generations will never forget. “We will be delighted to put the online donation link on the Legion Facebook page.” Derek said that there are many events planned across the city to mark the 100th

anniversary of the end of the First World War. He has requested that each group planning to mark the occasion sends a representative to a meeting he will be holding in conjunction with the city council and new mayor Councillor Celia Wride to try and collate a joint approach. “We know that the chamber of commerce, the Cathedral, Wells Lions, Wookey Hole, Wookey and schools and others have plans in the pipeline,” he said. “So please look out for the date and come along with your ideas and suggestions and the Legion and the city council will add our support and help in whatever way we can.” He can also be contacted by emailing wellsrblpao@aol.co.uk

WELLS Cathedral is planning a unique exhibition for this special year, commemorating 100 years since the end of the First World War. Knitted and crocheted poppies will festoon the Chapter House, winding their way down into the North Transept. There is a lot of ground to cover so the Cathedral is calling on all crafty people to get involved with creating poppies for the display in the first two weeks of November. Anyone who is not a ‘lone knitter’ can meet up with friends and family and have some fun together, or join one of the new Knit and Natter sessions in the Cathedral cafe every Monday to Friday morning from 10am to 11am. Everyone taking part can take advantage of the Morning Madness deal of a teacake and tea or coffee for £2.30, or receive a 10% discount card to redeem against other purchases in the cafe. Simple knitting and crochet patterns are available on the Cathedral website www. wellscathedral.org.uk or from the Cathedral office. Donations of red and black wool will be much appreciated. Crochet hooks and knitting needles are also needed – size 3.5mm or 3.75mm (UK9) is recommended, but others of a close size are welcomed. Donations of complete poppies will be gratefully received by: Miranda Young, Outreach & Learning Manager, Cathedral Office, Wells Cathedral, Cathedral Green, Wells BA5 2UE.

Tel: 01749 672033 www.thebritanniainnwells.co.uk

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Fairytale wedding to rival the Royals WHILE the eyes of the world were focused on the marriage of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, Wells was hosting a Royal Wedding of its own. Children from Wells Cathedral School staged a pretend wedding in the Cathedral’s Lady Chapel two days before the real thing. Reception class pupils Noah and Ella took the roles of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle; Raphael was the Archbishop of Canterbury; Ezra was best man Prince William; and Dusty Rose and Grace were bridesmaids Kate and Pippa Middleton. The guests – Nursery children, staff and parents – applauded and waved handcoloured union flags as the happy couple made their way out of the chapel at the end of the ceremony while an organist played the Wedding March. The wedding party then posed for photographs in front of the Cathedral, before going back to school for a wedding breakfast. “The inspiration for carrying out a pretend wedding came from the children,” said Charlotte White, head of the school’s Early Years Foundation Stage. “I had got married the year before and after seeing my wedding dress when carrying out a Cinderella ball, they thought my husband was the prince and still refer to him as such. Throughout the year they have been constantly acting out weddings so the Royal Wedding seemed like the perfect opportunity to carry one out. “The children worked incredibly hard in the run up to the big day. They made the order of services, designed the outfits, made the bouquets, and catered for the event by baking Royal

Joanna Jepson-Biddle organised the service and booked the Cathedral, Rebecca Gilbert made the two-tiered wedding cake, and others helped with the costumes. “I couldn’t have carried

out the event without the support from the parents,” said Charlotte. “We demonstrated the perfect parent partnership and created an occasion that we will all remember and treasure.”

Classic Film & Television Scenes during and after the special wedding ceremony, and at the wedding breakfast biscuits and making cucumber sandwiches. They even practised a first dance waltz. The Nursery and Nursery staff provided the wedding breakfast and attended as our Royal guests.” Parents also joined in enthusiastically to help with the preparations. Nicholas and

Children at St Cuthbert’s Academy Infants and Pre-school in Wells pictured celebrating the Royal Wedding with a special tea party on May 17

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June 2018

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Speakers set out new ways of thinking A VARIETY of speakers came up with a variety of ideas for Wells at a special forum organised by Wells Independents. More than 60 people listened to a six-strong panel put forward suggestions at The Wells You Want evening in Seager Hall. Wells Cathedral School student Archie Agabani had a novel idea for tackling the city’s parking problem with the help of technology. Pointing out the number of empty driveways, his solution was an app that links motorists looking for a parking space with householders who have an empty driveway. He was followed by Wells Blue School students Rosie Jones and Jo Woodlock, who said they would like to see greater links between schools and the community. They wanted more opportunities to volunteer, an indoor space that young people could use in the winter, and suggested that Wells should stage

The speakers waiting to put forward their ideas at The Wells You Want forum at Seager Hall a celebration of youth and young people. Kirstie Harris discussed the collaborative effort with which she is involved to invigorate the city, the Wake Up Wells initiative (see right). “We’ve got a plan of

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action to discover what the big dream is for Wells,” she said. As part of the initiative, there will be a community day in Wells Cathedral in January to celebrate the best of Wells, and Kirstie said that the day could culminate in lantern parades starting at different points in the city and meeting up in the middle. Judith Ludovino, who started a business in Wells in 2004, said: “I love Wells but I don’t believe we can rest on our laurels. “There are some serious threats to our local economy. What do we export from Wells apart from our young people?” She added: “Our independent traders are vital to the city so let’s listen to them. We need to attract

entrepreneurial people; if we want them to set up jobs in Wells we have to give them the facilities they need.” Edgar Phillips, artist in residence at The Bishop’s Palace, said that he would like to see investment in youth opportunities, and said that apprentice schemes were important in passing on skills to the young. “I really love Wells and we need to maintain that special community spirit and that will come from our kids,” he said. The speeches were preceded by the Wells Independents’ AGM at which a number of officers were appointed, including Adrian I’Anson as the new chair.

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Burcott Stores in Burcott Road has become a One Stop shop. The store has doubled in size after extending into the former coffee shop next door. Manager Selvanayagam Srikanth and staff member Hayley Jayne Bailey are pictured above on the first day of opening as a One Stop with customer Tina Earl. ‘We’re delighted to be working with Sri and his team in the newly refitted Burcott Stores,’ said One Stop business development manager Philip Steel.

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C O N S E R VAT O R I E S

Building on buzz of excitement for future

IF you have been following the local community groups on Facebook recently you may have noticed the enthusiasm of many voices expressing their concerns and dreams for a range of local issues. This was particularly noticeable in Wells during the bid for it to become the City of Culture in 2021. As a result, a crosscommunity group calling itself Wake Up Wells has decided to capture the momentum with a vision of deepening communication and relationships within the community.

WHAT IS YOUR VISION FOR WELLS?

Look out for the Wake Up Wells questionnaire in next month’s Wells Voice that can give you a say in shaping the city’s future

Phone mast appeal turned down THE appeal by Vodafone against the refusal of planning approval for a phone mast near Budgens on Bath Road, Wells, has been dismissed.

A planning inspector turned it down on the grounds of visual impact, harm to pedestrian safety and lack of fuller consideration of alternative sites.

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We have already seen some issues emerging on Facebook which matter to the residents of Wells – mainly involving housing, the High Street, the new school uniform at the Blue School and the future of Wells for teenagers. We want to discover what is the big dream for the future of Wells? Where better to start this quest than with the young people of Wells? We want to invite them to give us their vision in a mixed-media competition, whether it’s a poem, a video, an essay or picture of the place they

want Wells to be. We welcome sponsorship of this competition and will be receiving entries until September 1. Further details about entry will be posted on our social media pages. As well as the competition, we are planning to survey as many people as we can reach, young and old, over the next few months. We are planning a series of focus groups, especially among the younger population, and are inviting people to take part in a questionnaire which will be available via stakeholders and can be accessed online at www.yourwells.com. The results of the survey will be fed back to a community stakeholders conference which will be held, by the kind permission of Wells City Council, in the Town Hall on Sunday, October 7. This will be an opportunity for stakeholders from across the community to come together to connect and collaborate, having been inspired by those results. There is a buzz of excitement among the stakeholders who have already expressed their interest and we are very excited to have been offered the use of the nave of Wells Cathedral for a community celebration day to showcase all that is great about Wells in this magnificent space. This will take place on Saturday, January 26, 2019, when all the chairs will have been removed for the big clean. If you are interested in taking part, helping organise or want more details about any of the events, the competition or the survey, please contact me or Emma Lefevre at wakeupwells@ gmail.com or message the Facebook page: www.facebook. com/wakeupwells

FACTORY UR

Kirstie Harris explains more about the Wake Up Wells initiative that aims to harness ideas for how the city could become better still

URED IN O CT

June 2018

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June 2018

n NEWS

£1,000 to be won for heaviest pumpkin our biggest date in the calendar. Every year the park is adorned with hundreds of pumpkins but this year we wanted to see just how good the West Country is at producing the giant gourds. “We’d love to see the residents of Wells and beyond cultivating their prize-winning pumpkins to create a masterpiece to bring to the Caves and be judged. We are looking for the heaviest, the spookiest and the most perfect pumpkins. “Our prize enables people to grow their own investment over the summer. We believe it is big enough to attract some serious professional pumpkin growers and maybe we can beat the UK or world record. “We also want people to see what they can achieve in their own gardens so we have other

The Witch of Wookey begins preparations for the pumpkin competition fun categories as well that both adults and children can enter.” The prize in the “most perfect” pumpkin category, which will go to the specimen that is most pleasing on the eye to the panel of judges, is a weekend break and free family

Chance to enter Wells in Bloom

The Changing Room

THIS year’s Wells in Bloom garden competition will take place as usual during July. Entry forms are available in Wells at the Reception Desk, Wells Town Hall; D H James camera shop, Sadler Street; Whiting & Son, Lower High Street; Rock House Dental Practice; Protec, Queen Street; Queen Street Dry Cleaners; and

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Brownes Garden Centre, Keward. An entry form is also printed below which can be completed and posted to Reception Desk, Wells Town Hall, Market Place, Wells BA5 2RB, or returned by hand between 9am and 4pm. The closing date this year is July 9, 2018. In the case of any queries, call 01749 677399.

Wells in Bloom 2018 Entries are invited for the garden competition this year from properties and gardens within the City boundary

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WOOKEY Hole Caves is offering a £1,000 prize for the heaviest pumpkin grown this summer in a Halloween Pumpkin Competition. The contest is aimed at encouraging horticulture in the region and producing a bumper crop of pumpkins for Halloween 2018. Judging will take place at Wookey Hole Caves on a special pumpkin day in October with the owner of the heaviest pumpkin clinching the £1,000 top prize. The competition, which includes other fun prizes for pumpkin growers, will culminate in a display of entries at the attraction. Daniel Medley, director of Wookey Hole Caves, said: “As the home of the legendary witch of Wookey Hole, Halloween is

pass to Wookey Hole Caves for a year. There will be several winners in the “spookiest” carved or decorated pumpkin category, which is open to under 16s, and will be judged by the Witch of Wookey Hole. Winners will receive a hamper of spooky goodies, a specially framed photograph of themselves and the pumpkin with the witch and a family pass to Wookey Hole Caves. The competition is open to anyone using any pumpkin seeds or techniques for growing. There is no entry fee but to be eligible the pumpkin must be transported to Wookey Hole Caves for the judging day. The record for the world’s heaviest pumpkin is 2,624.6lb. It was grown in Belgium by Mathias Willemijns in 2016, while the UK record stands at 2,270lb for a pumpkin grown that same year near Southampton. Hints and tips on how to grow pumpkins are available at www. wookey.co.uk.

✂

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Email: sales@wellsvoice.co.uk Wells in Bloom important information Please cut off this lower part and retain for your reference

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June 2018

n NEWS

Conditions hot for maypole dancers CROWDS flocked to the May Fair in Wells on the hottest day of the year, and the hottest early May Bank Holiday on record. At the heart of the event was the traditional maypole and country dancing performed by pupils from two Wells primary schools, Stoberry Park and St Joseph & St Teresa. There were performances too from Wells City Band, Sulis Country Trio and Mendip All Drummers. Food, drink and craft stalls filled Wells Market Place. Two

vintage buses offered free rides around the local area for visitors. The Mayor of Wells, Councillor John North, and Wells MP James Heappey presented certificates to the dancers and congratulated the organisers, Wells Lions, for staging a great day’s entertainment. Wells Lions raised £1,500 from the event, all of which will be distributed in the community to charities and good causes. The Lions have granted so far more than £12,000 to local causes in the past year. The voluntary service club’s next major event will be the Wells Moat Boat Races on Bank Holiday Monday, August 27. Anyone wishing to learn more about Wells Lions, with a view to joining or helping at its functions, is encouraged to contact the club by emailing millerburt@btinternet.com or phoning 01458 210926.

Pupils from St Joseph & St Teresa primary school dance around the maypole at the May Fair

Big step forward with enterprise centre A NEW enterprise centre is on course to open in Wells next year after the purchase of the land on which it will be sited. The Wells Technology Enterprise Centre will be built at Cathedral Park, across the road from the TePe headquarters. It will have 12 offices as well as meeting rooms and mixed use space. There will also be five industrial units on the site. Plans for the centre have been approved by Mendip District Council, and now Somerset County Council has completed the purchase of the land.

Councillor David Hall, the council’s Cabinet Member for Economic Development, Planning and Community Infrastructure, said the project was exciting news for Wells. “It’s going to be fantastic for the city,” he said. “We’re committed to investing in enterprise centres that support small and medium sized-businesses and Wells is one of three new facilities under development in addition to five already up and running across the county. It’s going to be a huge benefit to the local economy. “The existing centres are

surprised be with

already home to over 50 businesses supporting around 100 jobs. The Wells facility will provide office and light industrial space as well as support for local businesses and networking events – really important services for small firms starting up, which are the mainstay of our economy.” Work on the Wells centre is expected to start later this year, and it is scheduled to be operational by autumn 2019. The news was welcomed by Wells Chamber of Commerce and Tourism chairman Robert Powell.

“Wells Chamber of Commerce is encouraged to hear that the Wells Technology Enterprise Centre is to be built at Cathedral Park and look forward to welcoming and supporting new businesses,” he said. “They will provide much needed employment and prosperity which will benefit the whole of the local economy.” There are two further enterprise centres under development in Wiveliscombe and Bruton. The centres already operating are in Dulverton, Minehead, Wheddon Cross and Highbridge.

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June 2018

n NEWS

Winning poster entry a real work of art

in for the sun. Altogether marvellous.” On winning the competition, Orlando said: “In my design, each segment represents an aspect of a performance and with contrasting colours I was trying to convey the idea that plays are full of surprise and excitement. I am really delighted. Thank you so much.” There were two runners up. In the upper age group, it was 11-year-old Aeryn Nicholl from Charlton Mackrell C of E Primary School in Somerton. “I saw the flyer for the competition when I was trying to solve a murder mystery treasure hunt in Wells,” he said. “I am thrilled to be a runner up and cannot wait to see the show in front of the beautiful cathedral.”

IT C

G TI O CK IN E G T FA S ST

THE winner of the Wells Theatre Festival’s poster competition has been announced. The organisers launched a competition for local children and young people to design the poster to promote the festival’s centrepiece – the community production of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet which will be performed by local residents outside Wells Cathedral. The winner is 14-year-old Orlando Borodale from Wells who goes to the Blue School. Head judge, artist Jane Macadam Freud, said: “This is a wonderful painting. Full of colour, composition and perspective. I love the use of receding and advancing colours in the green and yellow. Also the use of symbolism is very clever with the theatre light standing

Runner up for the lower age group was Jayden Price, aged eight, from Wookey. “I researched pictures of Romeo and Juliet on the internet for inspiration,” said Jayden, who goes to Wookey Primary School. “I love singing and acting

Wells Theatre Company presents

King Lear

and performing in the Wookey pantomime so am looking forward to seeing this performance and meeting the cast.” The festival takes place from July 12-15. For more details, see the festival website at wellstheatrefestival.org

“No man will ever write a better tragedy than Lear”

George Bernard Shaw

Tickets are on sale now at the Palace shop or book online at www.ticketsource.co.uk/ thebishopspalace

Following on from the success of last year’s critically acclaimed debut production of Hamlet, Wells Theatre Company are returning to The Bishop’s Palace to perform another William Shakespeare masterpiece, King Lear. The play will be performed in Promenade, a format which proved such a hit with residents and visitors walking with the actors from scene to scene through rooms and grounds of the Palace. Shakespeare’s Lear is undoubtedly one of his supreme achievements particularly noted for its observations on the nature of human suffering and kinship.

From left, runner up Aeryn Nicholls, Beth Millward (Juliet) and Julian Laws (Romeo) holding the other runner up entry by Jayden Price, and the Picture: Mary Johnson winner Orlando Borodale

Adult £15 Child £10 Family (2 adults 2 children) £44 This year you can pre-book a delicious BBQ prepared by The Bishop’s Table at only £5.50 per head supplement.

Director: Edgar Phillips King Lear: Neil Howiantz

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wellsvoice

June 2018

n NEWS Call for baskets and blankets FOLLOWING the excellent response to last year’s Food for Calais appeal, Wells Refugee Action Group is now asking for donations of moses baskets, baby blankets and reusable nappies, both the old fashioned terry towelling ones and the modern reusable kind. The group is collecting these items at its regular Friday morning drop-off sessions at Wells Town Hall, from 10am to 11.45am. The appeal will run until Friday, July 27. Donations are taken to the collection centre run by RAFT (Refugee Action for Taunton) from where they are distributed to refugee camps both in Europe and Jordan, Lebanon, Turkey and Syria.

Filming for The Spanish Princess at Wells Cathedral on May 15, a third series by American entertainment company Starz following The White Queen and The White Princess. All based on books written by Philippa Gregory, The Spanish Princess will tell the story of Henry VIII’s first wife, Catherine of Aragon

Rise in car parking charges confirmed MENDIP District Council’s Cabinet has approved an increase in parking charges in council car parks. The proposals, which will see hourly rates in Wells increase by between 10p and 50p, were endorsed at a meeting on May 21. Councillor Tom Killen, who was chairing the meeting, said that the increases were necessary so that the council had the funds to keep providing services for the people of Mendip. “None of us want to increase parking charges, but we have

got to make tough decisions,” he said. Councillor Harvey Siggs pointed out that it has been four years since the council last increased the car park tariffs. He also said that an increase in parking provision in Wells will be looked at as it has the most critical car park problem. “We really do need more parking space in Wells,” added Councillor Roy Mackenzie. Parking permits will be going up in price as part of the proposals, though Councillor

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Nigel Taylor, Portfolio Holder for Neighbourhood Services and Community Health, said that it would be possible to pay for these only for the days that a permit is needed. Free parking on Sundays in Frome and Shepton Mallet is also coming to an end, except on market days. On other Sundays there will be a charge of £2 per vehicle for the day. As part of the decision at Cabinet it was agreed that the car parking charges would be reviewed on a yearly basis in the future.

The council had asked for opinions on the Draft Car Park Strategy 2018-2022 from town councils and chambers of commerce across Mendip. There will be a further 21-day public consultation to be undertaken as part of making the new Parking Order. The Car Park Strategy – from which the council had decided to separate out the Car Park Charges Review – is proposed to go to Cabinet in September. u Letter, page 20

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June 2018

n NEWS

Charities benefit from year of fundraising COUNCILLOR John North handed over cheques in May to the two charities for which he had been fundraising during his mayoral year. Heads Up and the 1955 (City of Wells) Squadron ATC each received £3,675 following a series of charity events during the past 12 months including a James Bond-themed Casino Royale night at Wells Town Hall, and a dinner at the Swan Hotel featuring The Complete Blues Brothers. “We’ve all had great fun raising the money and we have been delighted to support these organisations,” said John. Heads Up is planning to spend the money on mindfulness training for carers, and a dementia disco where people with dementia put on headphones and dance along to a track of their choosing. “It’s like a silent disco,” said Heads Up director Bridget

Harvey. “It gets people on their feet. “We’re overwhelmed by the support that we’ve received over the last year,” she added. “Without the support of fundraisers to help with Heads Up we couldn’t provide the services we offer today.”

Top, Councillor John North hands over a cheque to the the 1955 (City of Wells) Squadron ATC – he is pictured with Squadron Leader Les Tanner, the mayor’s charity fundraising events team and some of the squadron’s cadets; above, the Heads Up cheque presentation – from left, Sarah Sloan, chair of Heads Up trustees Wendy Attridge, Heads Up director Bridget Harvey, Councillor John North, Gail North and Sean Sloan Wells ATC Adjutant John Blackburn said: “The very generous cheque we received from Councillor John North means we can replace our old flight simulator computer and main screen, as well as get the latest simulator software. The cadets – and staff – are excited

to experience the new set-up, which we hope will be in place by mid-June. “Although it will never replace the excitement of ‘real’ flying, it means we can offer our cadets a valuable training experience, and hopefully, some fun too.”

Computer firm 20th anniversary FOR Wells computer expert Richard Boulos, 2018 is a special year as it sees him celebrate 20 years of running his own business, following a successful career in computing, travelling the world working for Nestle, Zurich Insurance and Heineken/ Coca Cola. Richard sells and repairs computer equipment from his Wellscope Computers showroom and workshop at Keward Park on the Glastonbury Road. The business has grown over the years and he now offers a

To advertise, contact Andy on 01749 675157

wide range of services, including business and also home visits in the local area to carry out repairs or deliveries for people who are unable to make it to the premises. “We now have a large showroom with the advantage of plentiful free parking right outside and offer a repair service, upgrades, free advice and oneto-one tuition as well as selling brand new and very affordable second-user fully rebuilt laptops, desktops, tablets, inks and consumables,” he said.

Email: sales@wellsvoice.co.ukoice.co.uk

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June 2018

n NEWS

Mosaic project given another boost with cheque for £1,000

TILEOMETER 80 75 70 65 60 55 50 45 40 35 30 25 20 15 10 5

THE first donation by a private Richard’s gift follows a citizen has been made to the £5,000 donation from Wells Wells in Mosaic project. Civic Society, and individuals or It is a cheque for £1,000 businesses can contribute in the from Richard Green of Fairways, following ways: Wells. By post “This is a very good project To Wells in Mosaic, 23 New for Wells – for the future Street, Wells BA5 2LE, and for our heritage,” said cheques made payable to Richard. Wells in Mosaic. “We are delighted wells in mosaic Through your bank by Richard’s generosity Bank details below. and support,” said Ruth Online Ames-White, the artist n Via the ‘donate’ button who will create the mosaic. at: www.wellsinmosaic.org The six metre diameter n Direct to the Wells in Mosaic mosaic will depict streets and Paypal account at: www.paypal. buildings in the centre of Wells, me/wellinmosaic as wells as people and pieces of n By BACs to the bank account: history. It will be sited near the Wells in Mosaic / 13873609 / bandstand in the Recreation 20-99-40 Ground, and the project is n On the Wells in Mosaic expected to cost in the region of Facebook page: www.faceook. £80,000. com/wellsinmosaic

Wells City Council news for May/June City council During May the council holds its annual meeting commencing with the election of the mayor; this traditional ceremony is known as mayor-making where the next mayor and deputy mayor are elected. Then committees are appointed to serve for the year and the council’s governance procedures are put in place. The council must work within a framework laid down by legislation; within this Wells City Council seeks to work with and for the community in the city. Details of meetings, governance, audit, and all services, are on the website: www.wells.gov.uk Open spaces The team are out and about cutting grass and keeping the city centre clean and tidy; Wells City Council works in partnership with Somerset County Highways and Mendip District Council. Don’t forget all the work that goes on throughout the year to maintain the city cemetery, off Portway; this is an area of about 15 acres, requiring a large

* Figures in £1000s

Richard Green presents a £1,000 cheque to Ruth Ames-White at the mosaic studio in Wells

amount of attention to grass cutting at this time of year. City centre There has been a spate of graffiti and other anti-social behaviour across the city in recent weeks; the police are identifying the culprits. Please report every incident of anti-social behaviour to the police, this helps them to build up a full picture; do make sure you are given a crime-record number. City and Tourism Forum This is where the council meets with key stakeholders in the city to share news and views; ideas are discussed and events co-ordinated, to try to bring the very best programme forward for this historic city and for the community. The meeting is open to the public to attend and take part. The recent filming at the Cathedral and Bishop’s Palace caused some disruption in the town; the film company donated a disruption sum to the council; these donations are used to fund enhancements to the historic features and services in the city centre.

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wellsvoice

June 2018

n ON THE BEAT

Suggestions for ways to stay safe online n Don’t post any personal information online like your address, email address or mobile number. n Think carefully before posting pictures or videos of yourself. Once you’ve put a picture or video up online most people can see it and may be able to download it, it’s not just yours anymore. n A simple name search into Google can bring up personal details / images from social media accounts. n Use the privacy and security settings on social media sites so that only friends and family can see your pages. n If you’ve stopped using a social media site or forum, then close your account down. There’s no point in leaving personal information out there unnecessarily. n Don’t give out information online simply because it’s asked for – think whether whoever

with a website or sign up for a newsletter, always provide the minimum information possible.

location. This can be turned off via settings.

Keep your privacy settings as high as possible: n Complex passwords. n Limit personal details – full name, contact number, date of birth, address. n Consider setting up a separate, personal email account to use with social media sites, rather than using your work, or even your main personal email. Remember, only connect to people you know.

News from the local policing team with PCSO Ben Cleaver is asking for it really needs it. When you’re filling in forms online, for example to register

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Think carefully about what you are saying / doing before you post something online: n The CIA reads up to five million tweets a day. n If you wouldn’t say it to someone’s face, don’t say it online. n Deleted messages and texts can still be retrieved by the police on any platform. n Snapchats can be saved without you knowing, they don’t need to be screenshot. MOST IMPORTANTLY: If you see something online that makes you feel uncomfortable, unsafe or worried please report it or speak to someone who will be able to help you. We are contactable either via 101 (non-emergency) or 999 in any emergency.

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Nurse thanks choir members for support AFTER only four months the new Wells Good Afternoon Choir has a membership of more than 60 enthusiastic singers under the leadership of Grenville Jones, Bath’s Mr Music. The choir have just chosen to support the Hope for Tomorrow charity and its Bumble mobile chemotherapy bus that visits West Mendip Hospital, Bridgwater, Minehead and Tesco in Chard. Sam James from the organisation recently popped in to a Wells Good Afternoon Choir rehearsal to thank members for their support. Sam is a nurse who used to work at the Beacon Centre at Musgrove Park Hospital in Taunton. Keen to set up a clinic local to Wells but finding that space was at a premium, she said: “We were then offered a ‘bus’, which materialised into the second mobile chemotherapy unit, launched in 2010 and

Sam James, front row, with members of the Wells Good Afternoon Choir named Bumble after Stirling Moss’s mother-in-law. It is fantastic that the lovely people who attend Grenville’s Wells Good Afternoon Choir have chosen our charity with their programme of concerts and other fundraising events.” Wells Good Afternoon Choir

meets at the Seager Hall in Wells every Tuesday from 2pm4pm when new members are always welcome. Grenville is the conductor, and the accompanist is Sheila Ross. The choir will be taking part in a Big Sing in Bath’s Forum concert hall on June, and nearer home, their first local

concert will be at St Cuthbert’s Church on Saturday, July 7, with the celebrated Bath Male Choir. Tickets are now available from Wells and Mendip Museum, Visitor Information, 8 Cathedral Green, Wells BA5 2UE, tel: 01749 671770, priced £10. Grenville said: “We asked all the members of the Wells Good Afternoon Choir to nominate their local charity of choice and the Bumble bus received the most support. Apart from the concert with Bath Male Choir on July 7, we also have a concert at Wells United Church on Saturday, November 3, with the Village Voices. “The members also contribute each week at the tea break and on Tuesday, December 11, we will celebrate Christmas with an open carol service for everyone to attend. “On that day, we will present a cheque to Sam which I hope will be in the region of £1,000.”

Chance to try wines and spirits WELLS wine merchant The Grape And The Good is organising another summer wine tasting this June. The third annual summer tasting will again be held at The Crown Hotel in Wells Market Place. There will be the chance to try more than 40 different wines hand-picked from the shop’s shelves by owner Andrew Kinnersley, as well as a variety of spirits. Andrew said: “Last year was a great success and we were

lucky enough with the weather to be able to spill outside to the courtyard. I’m looking forward to welcoming East London Liquor Company and Somerset Cider Brandy Co with their range of spirits, and there will be plenty of food as well. It’s always a relaxed, informal and fun evening.” The tasting will take place on Friday, June 29, from 6.30pm. Tickets cost £20 and are on sale now at The Grape And The Good at 2 Priory Road.

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wellsvoice

June 2018

n NEWS

Return of open-air art event

Unique service needs helpers

AFTER last year’s successful public art event, ART 360, which took place on Cathedral Green, 2018 will see the return of this celebration of art by kind permission of The Bishop’s Palace. Organised by Wells Civic Society, the event will encourage artists of all ages and all abilities to come and paint any of the 360 degree views from the grass beside the shop and cafe in the Palace grounds. The painting could be of the Palace, or the ruins of the banqueting hall, the drawbridge entrance with its ancient accommodation, the majestic trees that adorn the grounds, the people enjoying the beauty of the buildings or those just sitting outside enjoying a coffee in the summer sun. Paint, paper, brushes, pens and pencils will be provided for children but other artists are encouraged to bring their own materials.

AN appeal has been made for more volunteers to help with a service for rough sleepers. The Dairy House is an innovative project launched in 2015 as a partnership between Elim Connect Centre in Wells, Mendip District Council and Addicott Partners (Manor Farm). The only direct access accommodation in Mendip for rough sleepers, it provides up to two six beds in a cottage at the heart of a working farm near Stratton-on-the-Fosse to help Mendip citizens on their journey to sustainable accommodation. Volunteers are being sought who can offer one morning (9am-1pm) or one afternoon (2pm-7pm) per week to do odd jobs and chores at the Dairy House, chat with the residents, and get involved in an activity such as gardening or pottery. People interested are asked to contact suzanne@connectcentre.org.uk, 07906 638335.

Young participants in last year’s ART 360 event The aim of the afternoon, from 1pm-4pm on Saturday, July 21, is simply to celebrate art, the majesty of The Bishop’s Palace, and combine the two for enjoyment in one of the best settings in the city.

BLOOM A vibrant summer exhibition showing at

HERITAGE COURTYARD GALLERY AND STUDIOS

Saturday 2nd June - Saturday 23rd June Open daily 10am - 4pm, closed Sundays Heritage Courtyard Studios once again showcases the talents of some of Somerset’s finest contemporary artists, each responding to BLOOM in their unique way Heritage Courtyard Gallery and Studios 6 Heritage Courtyard, Sadler Street, Wells BA5 2RR www.heritagecourtyardstudio.com

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For more information, visit the Wells Civic Society website wellscivicsociety.org.uk or The Bishop’s Palace website bishopspalace.org.uk This event will not take place if the weather is wet.

n LETTERS

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Are multi-storey car parks the answer? I WANT to endorse the objections made about the increase in parking fees, which will, as Tessa Munt pointed out, simply put greater pressure on the few free spaces available on the streets. I live in Southover, on a stretch with no off-road parking, so like other residents in the area I must park my car on the street. Sometimes I hardly like to move out for fear of not finding a space when I return. I don’t blame other motorists for wanting a free space, even less so if the parking charges increase. Car parking facilities in Wells are woefully inadequate. Mendip council seem to want to build housing on any available square inch of land rather than using the land for parking. New city-centre housing is always built with spaces for cars, but the older houses were built long before such provision was needed. There’s also a rise in new housing estates on the outskirts; people living there are going to want to bring their cars into town, putting even more pressure on town-centre spaces.

One possible answer would be to build car parks of two or three storeys. This could be done without spoiling the appearance of the town, always providing that the council would pay for a reasonably attractive building and not just a concrete slab. Then parking permits could be issued to residents for on-street parking. Since we all pay our council tax, it’s unfair that we should be penalised for parking in the “wrong” place because someone is occupying the space outside a resident’s house. The parking problem affects not only residents in roads like Southover; it affects the Wells economy in general. As a Cathedral volunteer, welcoming and guiding, I encourage visitors to look at other attractions in the city. Very often people sigh and say, “Sorry, we have to get back before our parking expires.” It’s easy to spend a whole day in Wells, visiting the attractions, eating and shopping, but the council apparently does not see that their parking policy is counter-productive. What do we have to do to open their eyes? Margaret Hollis Southover, Wells

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wellsvoice

June 2018

n NEWS

The Hilliard Society of Miniaturists

The workshops, storytelling session and pop-up shop by the Craft Unit drew dozens of visitors to The Bishop’s Barn in May. Organiser Jade Ogden of the Mendip-based Craft Unit is pictured above during the weekend of activities, part of the Into the Barn initiative. She said: ‘It was fantastic to be able to showcase such a broad range of creative work made by people with learning disabilities, within a beautiful, historic building. We had a lot of visitors who were really interested in the work on display, as well as the barn itself.’

ANNUAL EXHIBITION and SALE of MINIATURE ART

New prize on offer for younger artists THERE will be a new prize in this year’s Wells Art Contemporary (WAC) competition for artists under 30 years of age. Ellie Jones of the Andelli Art gallery at South Horrington, Wells, is offering the Next Generation Art Prize to recognise and support the talents of young artists. The prize will be a two-week solo exhibition at the gallery, including a private view and social media support. Mentoring and advice on working with galleries, curation and artistic development will also be offered. Ellie said: “It is a pleasure to be a sponsor for such an inspiring competition, and also be in a position to offer support to a next generation artist.” WAC was founded by artist Kate Noble, and an exhibition of her paintings and drawings

will be opening at Andelli Art on June 16. “Whether travelling to distant places or at home on the Somerset Levels, she responded with a unique vision to produce work of vibrancy and colour,” said Ellie. “Very much an encourager and an enabler, she founded Wells Art Contemporary, supporting the artistic community with flair and generosity.” Kate Noble: A Celebration will continue until July 7. Visit www.andelliart.com for further information. Other prizes in this year’s WAC competition include a cheque for £1,000 and an exhibition at the JGM Gallery in London. The closing date is Monday, July 2. Shortlisted entries will be exhibited at The Bishop’s Palace in Wells from October 8-21.

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SATURDAY 2nd JUNE to SATURDAY 9th JUNE 10am - 5pm (last entry 4pm) Closed Sunday 3rd June

THE TOWN HALL, WELLS, SOMERSET Daily art demonstrations Admission free

A workshop will be held on the 2nd June. Limited places. Please contact 01749 674472 or email: hilliardsociety@aol.com

wellsvoice

June 2018

n NEWS

Bidders battle it out for stone sculptures RESIDENTS of Wells snapped up 18 unique stone sculptures on Bank Holiday Monday as Wells Stone Carving Festival culminated in an exciting and competitive live auction outside the Bishop’s Barn on Wells Recreation Ground. More than £6,000 was raised from the auction, the profits of which will be donated to the Bishop’s Barn, as the trustees of the medieval tithe barn – one of only a small number still standing in the UK – seek a purpose for the building that will bring in a sustainable revenue to cover its upkeep. The 18 carvings were produced by artists from across the country, including the winner of the European stone carving festival in 2017 and masons from Winchester Cathedral, who had

come to compete at the festival by producing a carving in just two and a half days to fit the brief of Medieval England. Before the auction was kicked off by local auctioneer Allen Mechen, councillor and trustee of the barn Harvey Siggs presented the three prizes for the best carvings as judged by the public, the artists themselves and the trustees. The winners were: n Public Vote: Jem Hobbs of Cliveden Conservation. n Artists’ Choice: Tom Clark, a Martock based stone carver. n Trustees’ Choice: Alex Waddell of Winchester Cathedral. The event was organised by local stonemason Paul Roddan and Rosie Park with sponsorship from local firms Glastonbury Marquees and Wells Cathedral

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David Annat with the sculpture he created, top, and sculptures by Jem Hobbs, left, and Alex Waddell, right

Stonemasons. The Worshipful Company of Masons and tool supplier G Gibson & Co also sponsored the event along with Lovell Stone Group, who supplied the Hartham Park bath stone. The hire of the Bishop’s Barn was free as part of the Into the Barn scheme, with numerous community and arts events taking place over the course of 2018. Paul Roddan said: “Having competed in a few stone carving festivals myself in the past I was keen to establish an event in Wells given the strong connection the city has with this ancient trade. When we saw the call for applications for the Into

the Barn scheme we thought it was the perfect opportunity to try out an event like this. “The feedback from the public has been hugely positive and encouraging, and our ambition will be to make this an annual event. The standard of carving was extremely high and the public have snapped up some brilliant pieces of art which will likely only ever increase in value. “We couldn’t have done the event without the support of all of our sponsors, the auctioneer Allen, our artists and of course the public who came along throughout the weekend to see the transformation of a six-sided block of stone into a unique and creative work of art.”

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SOMERSET Sight, which helps people with visual impairment, celebrated 20 years of its successful volunteer visiting service with an Afternoon Tea at Wells Town Hall. More than 50 people attended the event including volunteers, beneficiaries, charity supporters the chair of Somerset Sight and other trustees. Holly Sutton from Somerset Sight said: “We wanted to mark

this fabulous milestone for our visiting service with a fitting celebration event. It was a lovely afternoon and we want to thank everyone who came and supported the event. Special thanks needs to go to Burns the Bread, Wells Barclays, Waitrose and Tesco.” Somerset Sight is looking to recruit new volunteers for this valuable service in the Wells area. Call 01823 333818.

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wellsvoice

June 2018

n NEWS

Musicals a hit at third annual festival ORGANISERS of this year’s Wells Festival of Film are delighted with the success of the event. Hundreds of people attended seven screenings over three days at the third annual festival. “The festival has been a great success,” said Sally Cooper, proprietor of Wells Film Centre. “We can only build on the experience of the three we have done to make next year’s even better.” The theme of this year’s event was musicals, with the highlight being the outdoor screening of The Greatest Showman to a full audience of 400 at The Bishop’s Palace. “With people from all over the country and abroad coming it was truly an international event,” said Sally. “When tickets went on sale they were all snapped up in just over a week. “Wookey Hole Circus did us proud welcoming the audience and entertaining the crowd before the film.” There were free workshops with Wookey Hole Circus all day on the Saturday at The Bishop’s Palace, while Wells Walking Tours did a Hot Fuzz tour.

screening of the family film Sherlock Gnomes featuring music by Elton John, 01749 673195 the classic hit 1955 film There’s No Business Like Show Business, and the original Mary Poppins, ready for Mary Poppins Returns, coming this Christmas. On Sunday the festival concluded with West Side Story at Cedars Hall, with guest broadcaster Edward Seckerson giving a fascinating pre-screening talk, Bernstein Remembered, about the film and Bernstein’s life. “Thanks to all our partners: Wookey Hole, Swan Hotel, Cedars Hall, Wells Voice, and The Bishop’s Palace,” said Sally. “The fourth festival will take place from Friday, April 26, to Sunday, April 28, 2019. We are looking for more venues next year and more partners, so if anyone would like to get involved with us helping or sponsoring we would be pleased to hear from them. “Finally, thank you to all our customers for their support, without whom there would be no festival.”

- 29th WELLS FESTIVAL 27th OF FILM APRIL 27th - 29th APRIL 2018 2018 MUSICALS

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Sally Cooper and family help welcome people to The Bishop’s Palace, and Edward Seckerson in conversation with Bill Lloyd before West Side Story

Other highlights were a screening of the Rocky Horror Picture Show with a fancy dress competition, a screening of the live broadcast of The Messiah from the Bristol Old Vic, with local youngster Cordelia singing two pieces live in the screen before the film and doing a Q&A about how she got the part. There was also an advance

Bakers challenged to whisk up something special in charity bake off AMATEUR bakers are being invited to take part in a ‘FUNdraising baking competition’ in Wells. Winners will be revealed at a Stand Up To Cancer Bake Off event at Wells Methodist Church on Saturday, June 30.

There will be three categories in the charity challenge: Open, Men, and Under 15s. Entries will be received on Friday, June 29, and judging will take place the following day before the public are admitted from 2pm to view the entries and

At the Heart of England’s Smallest City City of Wells Town Hall Various rooms to hire for: Conferences, Seminars Fairs, Shows, Exhibitions, Marriages, Receptions, all types of Meetings and Local Group Classes Very reasonable rates

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

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enjoy afternoon teas. “Providing one or more sponsors can be brought on board it is intended to award the ‘Star Bakers’ from each category with a Star Baker Apron at 4.30pm,” said organiser Norman Cowell.

Entry forms are available at the Cancer Research shop in Wells, Wells Library, Millicans opticians and by emailing Norman on norman.cowell35@ talktalk.net. The forms must be returned by Monday, June 25.

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wellsvoice

June 2018

n NEWS

Public prompted to take climate action A WELLS environmental scientist is encouraging people to make five simple changes to their lives to help combat climate change. Angela Terry has had 20 years’ experience working in the renewables industry and was one of the first pioneers of community wind farms. Now she has founded One Home, a new website which gives people guidance on moving towards a low carbon lifestyle. “The subject of climate change is a difficult one. Most people accept it is happening but are sometimes confused and overwhelmed by what they can do about it,” said Angela. “We want to give options that offer the best quality of life while reducing carbon emissions. Making these choices doesn’t mean making sacrifices – in fact,

a low carbon lifestyle is healthier, more affordable and more comfortable.” Eating less red meat, driving an electric car, holidaying in the UK, insulating your home and installing solar panels are the most important actions you can take to reduce harmful carbon dioxide emissions and benefit your quality of life, according to One Home. The website is being piloted in Somerset and across the West Country before being promoted nationally later this year. “Currently, there is no universal tax on carbon emissions so these changes need to happen voluntarily,” said Angela. “Thankfully, solutions do exist and they are reliable, affordable and generally beneficial.”

More than 200 runners – most in fancy dress – took part in the first Ciderthon half-marathon on April 29. The event started and finished in Wells Market Place, and gave entrants the chance to sample cider at every mile of the 13.1-mile route. Organiser Nicole Hawkes was pleased with how the event went, and is planning to repeat it next year. ‘There were some really impressive fancy dress efforts all round, and I was really happy with how the cider sponsor companies gave life to the event at their cider stops and on the Market Place,’ she said.

Corner of pub becomes a shop PUBLICAN Peter Graham has turned a corner of The George Inn at Croscombe into a village shop. Locals can now enjoy a pint and a ploughmans before stocking up on essentials such as papers, bread, teabags and washing powder, as well as local produce such as the George’s homemade cakes, Croscombe marmalade, Stones cider from Shepton Mallet, unhomogenised milk from Midway Dairy of Stoke St Michael or fresh Somerset meat from P&K Meats of Street. “It made sense to set up the operation here,” said Peter, who had been running the nearby Croscombe Village Stores for more than two years but had to close the shop because it was not economically viable.

“People appreciate the fact that we are still providing an important service for the village.”

Volunteers model spring fashions

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A FASHION show at the Mistral shop in Well High Street in April raised money for St Margaret’s Hospice. Five volunteers modelled the latest spring lines, and there was a raffle run by Katie and Jo from Lloyds Bank in Wells. St Margaret’s fundraiser Terena Young said: “This all

started when I popped into the Mistral shop to purchase a new dress for the winter, and I came out with four dresses and the pledge from Annie the shop manager to hold a fashion show. It’s a great way of raising money, everyone had fun and the models and Mistral have promised to put another show on in the autumn.”

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wellsvoice

June 2018

n NEWS

Cygnets born to widowed Wynn

Meeting about defibrillator

WYNN, the female mute swan who recently lost her long-term mate Bryn, has hatched a clutch of cygnets at The Bishop’s Palace. The first cygnet appeared in the early hours of May 9, and a further two were spotted by the end of the day. A further three have since hatched. The valiant mum was widowed in mid-April when her partner Bryn passed away due to old age. Wynn had already laid six eggs and was sitting on the nest by this stage. Palace staff had been keeping a close eye on her to ensure that she had food nearby and that the eggs weren’t left for too long as Bryn used to take her place when she went for a quick swim, or to find food. The first two cygnets were named Meghan and Harry in celebration of the Royal Wedding.

A GROUP of people who use St Thomas’ Church Hall are investigating the possibility of installing a defibrillator at the hall or at St Thomas’ Church. “This arose out of a first aid training course that a number of the bridge club that meet in St Thomas’s Church Hall attended,” said bridge club Thursday section chair Charlie Sutton. “After the course we discussed this issue and decided that it would be a good idea to try and get one fitted at the church or church hall as that is fairly central for this area of Wells and the hall is a heavily used facility.” A meeting is being held at the hall to see how many people might be interested in helping with the project. It will take place on Wednesday, June 13, at 7pm. All are welcome to attend.

Wynn and her newly-hatched cygnets at The Bishop’s Palace

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BEGINNERS’ COMPUTER COURSE Are you a complete beginner with computers & the internet? Book Today

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wellsvoice

June 2018

Heads Up, Upper Breach, South Horrington. Tel: 01749 670667

Visitors able to admire gardens DOZENS of people strolled around the gardens at Heads Up and bought plants in the plant sale when the charity held a Garden Day in April. Tea and cakes were also available for visitors to the Heads Up site in South Horrington, which opened its gardens during National Gardening Week. “We’ve had a really good attendance and the plant sales have gone really well,” said garden co-ordinator Lee-Anne Bone. “People have enjoyed seeing what we do here and learning about Heads Up, and about how gardening brings people together and can be so rewarding.” The gardens are normally open twice a week for people who use Heads Up’s services and want to garden. Features include a pond, a polytunnel and a healing

garden, while a woodland garden is currently being created. There is also a memory garden, which can benefit people living with dementia; it is more of a sensory garden, explained Lee-Anne, who said it can be a good talking point as the plants can inspire reminscences. The work of the Heads Up

gardening team, which includes several volunteers, is bringing benefits across Wells. They grow edible flowers to sprinkle on salads at Pickwicks cafe, work on the gardens at the Wells almshouses, and have been asked to design and plant a garden at Rock House dental practice.

Top, Lee-Anne Bone in the Heads Up gardens with volunteer Mike Harris; and inset, Robin Lewin working on the woodland garden

Review of dementia day services VIEWS are being sought as Somerset County Council, while working with Compass Disability, starts a review of the way that day services for people with dementia are delivered. The current contract for this support expires at the end of January 2019 and the review is seeking opinions from providers, service users, carers, professionals and partners as the authority considers the best way to provide support in the future. Cabinet Member for Adult

Services, Councillor David Huxtable, said: “We always carry out a review at the end of a contract. We want to hear people’s views so we can make sure that we can take them on board and help them live the way they want to. We will of course consult when we have proposals to share.” Anyone interested in sharing their views can do so through the following online survey: https:// www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/ SCC_Day_Opportunities

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A FREE happiness course is starting in Wells in June. The four-week course aims to help people find ways to increase their wellbeing. It will be led by business trainer Nicole Bowman; Jan James, a curate at St Thomas’ Church, Wells; and wellbeing coach Caroline Riley. “We are doing it for free as we feel passionately about people having the opportunity to increase their happiness levels,” said Nicole. “The only cost is a suggested

donation of £10 to cover the costs of running it.” The sessions will be held each Thursday in St Thomas’ Church and last about 90 minutes. The first will be on June 12. “The course content is based on the principles of positive psychology,” said Nicole. “It’s a lot of fun and very informal. People are also welcome to bring babies along.” Booking is required. Contact Nicole on nicolebowman05@ btinternet.com or via the Happiness Wells Facebook page.

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wellsvoice

June 2018

n NEWS

Labyrinth gets people thinking

Chance to learn digital basics

TWO installations at Wells Cathedral in May made praying a different experience. The south transept featured two 4m-high prayer trees, with visitors invited to share prayers in response to world events in the news or personal prayers for friends and family. Along with blue and silver ribbons, the prayer flowed out from the 1,000 year-old Saxon font, which represents life and healing. Outside, the West Front of the Cathedral hosted a 10m ×10m prayer labyrinth, decorated with colourful artwork for people to interact with. “This is not the kind of labyrinth you can get lost in,” said its creator, James FoxRobinson, from the Diocese of Bath and Wells. “There is one way in and one way out. What the labyrinth does is help people think about prayer and praying for one another. On the way in to the centre, the idea is you pray ‘inwards’; for yourself and what God is doing in your life. On the way out you pray for your family, friends and community. I’ve had great fun

SOMERSET Skills & Learning in Wells is offering a Beginners’ Computer Course to help local people gain basic computer and digital skills. “Despite living in such a computer-centric age, we know there are still people out there who are struggling to catch up with digital skills,” said SS&L team leader Kay Walker. “This course covers all the basics from doing online searches and filling in online forms to social media, word processing, online banking and all the skills that you need to be computer confident today.” The courses will be held at the Somerset Skills & Learning centre at Portway, near Waitrose, and will be free to those that meet eligibility criteria, or £150 for a 15-week course. “We really hope lots of local people will take up the course and overcome their lack of confidence or nervousness with computers so they can really get the most out of the benefits of the digital world,” said Kay. The course starts on June 6 and places can be booked by contacting Somerset Skills & Learning on 0330 332 7997 or dropping into the centre.

The prayer installations seen outside and inside Wells Cathedral

making it and I hope the scale and its location will draw people in to have a look and experience it for themselves.” The days between Ascension and Pentecost – this year from May 10-20 – are a traditional time for prayer and contemplation for Christians. The two installations were part of Thy Kingdom Come, a global call to prayer from Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, when churches across Somerset hosted prayer events.

Orphans will benefit from Oscar Wilde theatre night WELLS Rotary is putting on an evening of theatre in June to raise funds to build a boys’ hostel at an orphanage school in India. The Divine Oscar, a one-man show of the wit, wisdom and world of Oscar Wilde performed by Peter Gilchrist, will take place at Wells Little Theatre on June 9, at 7pm. Money raised will go to

charity Reaching the Unreached which helps the poorest of the poor, especially women and children, in South India. They have over 1,000 orphaned children, many HIV affected, in small group homes of seven or eight children and a house mother who raises them as her own. When they reach

secondary level they move into hostels for their remaining schooling. Tickets for the theatre evening cost £25 and will include a glass of wine from The Grape & The Good and a two-course meal catered by the Connect Centre. They are available from The Crown Hotel.

Garden festival THE English Country Garden Festival is returning to The Bishop’s Palace from June 2224, with guided tours, live music, expert speakers, ‘have a go’ crafts and more than 40 stalls. For more details, see www. bishopspalace.org.uk

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June 2018

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Celebration of past and present glories Volunteer Pamela Egan describes what visitors can expect at the Old Deanery Garden Open Day in June IF, on June 16, you walk through a small green door in the massive wall of the Old Deanery on the Cathedral Green, you may feel that you have slipped through a hole in time. Strains of fancy Elizabethan music will lead you to where the musicians sit, wearing clothes that are authentically styled and made by hand. (Even their lunchtime picnic, with its pewter mugs and “real” bread, is period perfect.) They sit beside herb beds packed with plants that at least one Tudor Dean of Wells could have named at a glance. Who was he? And why is this secret garden open on June 16 for a double celebration? His name was William Turner and 2018 marks the 450th anniversary of the completion

Period musicians will be playing at the Old Deanery Garden Open Day of his great New Herball in three volumes. Published in 1568 – sadly also the year in which he died – this was the first important book about the use of plants in medicine that had been written in English, for everyone (not in Latin, just for doctors). Turner was himself a medical doctor, as well as a (highly controversial) clergyman and Dean of Wells – twice – during the upheavals of the Church from the reigns of Henry VIII

to Elizabeth I. He was also a passionate naturalist and his book names and describes in detail all the plants he saw, not only in England but during his journeys abroad while exiled for his beliefs. At that time nearly all medicines were plant-based. Turner’s readers would include apothecaries and housewives trying to treat their children’s rashes or their servants’ boils. We know that the Dean planted a private garden in his Deanery (now used as offices). When it was opened during Wells in Bloom, visitors were disappointed to see mainly grass and tarmac paths. The upshot was the start of The Old Deanery Garden Project: local volunteers working to revive a Tudor-style garden to honour the memory of Dean Turner. This year is the project’s 15th birthday – the second reason for a celebration on June 16. The garden will be open to

the public from 10am till 4pm. Come through the green door in the wall. Admission is completely free, though all donations towards its upkeep will be gratefully received. As well as Turner’s herbs, you can see varieties of roses he would have recognised and also fruit trees – not only apples and pears, but medlar, quince, mulberry and even pomegranate. A bed of plants traditionally used for dyeing wool is close to the guns and suns in stone that adorned Dean Gunthorpe’s magnificent wing of the building before Turner was born. Don’t miss the display of gorgeous embroidery, either – or the sensational view of the Cathedral’s West Front from the ramparts. And if, after your visit, you fancy joining this friendly bunch of gardeners, just have a word with a steward (look out for their blue aprons). You’ll be most warmly welcomed.

Mendip District Council’s senior markets officer Stuart Beeton is presented with a card and two cases of his favourite tipple, Peroni, at Wells Market on May 23, a gift from Wells City Council councillors and staff to mark his retirement after 13 years in the role. He is pictured with town clerk Felicity White, Mayor of Wells Councillor Celia Wride, Town Crier Len Sweales and Councillor Roy Mackenzie.

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CANTABILE Ladies’ Choir are singing ‘Songs from the Wars’ in St Thomas’ Church, Wells, on Monday, June 25, at 8pm. The programme includes arrangements and medleys of many well known favourites, directed by Tracey Hansford and accompanied by Helen Wilkins.

The guest soloist is Iain Macleod-Jones, a well known local tenor. Tickets cost £10 to include a glass of wine and are available from: St Thomas’ Parish Office, 01749 672335; Cadeaux & Co, Wells High Street, 01749 672332; or Jane Savery, 01749 670527.

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June 2018

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Dozens of people joined an International Workers’ Day parade through Wells on May 5 organised by Wells Labour Party. Banners were displayed and songs sung during the parade from Cathedral Green to The Bishop’s Barn, where a family fun day was held.

Hot Fuzz a highlight of fundraising work The second in a series of features on Globe Carnival Club in its 50th anniversary year takes a look back at the events Globe has helped to make a reality over the years, and why fundraising is so important

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include assisting film crews who regularly use Wells as a backdrop for their productions.” With carnival clubs being voluntary organisations, they are dedicated to raising as much money as possible by attending as many fundraising events as THROUGHOUT our possible throughout the 50 years in Somerset year. A typical 100ft arnival C e carnivals, we’ve cart can cost between been getting stuck £30,000-£40,000 to into fundraising build. projects that we’ve Frank continues: an either organised or y “Of course, the one we r n i ve r s a contributed to – and talk most about was the haven’t we done a few! filming of Hot Fuzz which For us as well as many other was filmed in and around carnival clubs, it’s essential that Wells on Sunday, May 7, 2006, we raise enough money during ending on June 2. We were the year so that we can run our responsible for all of the road prospective entries entered into closures and general stewarding the circuit come November. duties. Filming was most days Globe fundraising coand I ought to mention that ordinator, Frank Delaney, Maurice Day and the late John reminiscences by talking through Phipps worked tirelessly for us the most memorable fundraising over the busy four-week period. events Globe has been a part of: “When the film went on “By the Eighties fundraising was general release we had our own on the up, we were stewarding Hot Fuzz premiere in the city’s regularly at the Bath and West film centre. We stayed in the Showground as well as assisting cinema right to the very end with their annual show. Globe just to see the credits with our have previously stewarded names as ‘Globe Stewards’ roll concerts for top bands like Wet by. The stars of the film came Wet Wet, Dire Straits and Chris to the premiere and the party Rea. We’ve also attended events afterwards in Kudos nightclub.” that included Frank Bruno fights, We are always on the lookout Cliff Richard gospel concerts and for potential new members: we’ve even worked for the Hells check out Globe Carnival Club on Angels at their annual bike show. Facebook for more information, But of everything we’ve done, or get in touch with Sue Barber some of the many highlights on 01761 418320.

wellsvoice

n THE PROPERTY MARKET

June 2018

With Roderick Thomas of Roderick Thomas Ltd

Views of the bungalow at Dulcote for which bidding was brisk when it came up for sale in an online auction, eventually fetching just over £400,000

Online auctions: the eBay for houses THE world carries on changing, as does the economy and as does the housing market. With property there’s plenty of attention given to online sales and firms such as Purple Bricks are rising and in some cases falling. Do they work? Again in some cases probably and in some cases probably not. From my own experience I’ve seen some very underpriced properties selling quickly and other sales falling apart without the traditional estate agency actions to hold them together. Remember, unlike online agents, the dreaded estate agent only gets paid if it’s successful. Will they take over the market?

Doubtful. Will they have a share? Almost certainly yes. There’s also another estate agency change which is not getting the same publicity. Auctions are one of the oldest methods of property selling and have stood the test of time. I was an agricultural auctioneer for many years and still favour and hold auctions when appropriate. However, we are also now using a new format – online auctions. The easy way to describe them is the nearest thing to selling houses on eBay. With online auctions, buyers log in from anywhere in the country or the world, view the legal documents and full details

To advertise, contact Andy on 01749 675157

CLIFTON 01179 734464 CASTLE CARY 01963 351993 WEDMORE 01934 710220 WELLS 01749 670079 Mobile 07791789954 www.roderickthomas.co.uk rdt@roderickthomas.co.uk

and then bid over a set time period. If successful the top bidder pays a reservation fee and then has 28 days to finalise the legalities or to withdraw and lose the reservation fee. I think it’s a great system for sellers wanting to bring a sale to a conclusion swiftly and gives a buyer great flexibility. We’ve just sold a bungalow in Dulcote with this system which saw frantic bidding with 32 bids flying in before the hammer fell at just over £400,000, which was well in excess of the previous guide price. It’s a great system for certain properties and I’ve no doubt we’ll see many more online auction sales.

Email: sales@wellsvoice.co.uk

wellsvoice

June 2018

n NEWS IN BRIEF Surge in crimes REPORTED crimes in Wells jumped sharply in March to 92, up from 58 the month before. Police figures show that most offences were of anti-social behaviour, which doubled to 30, while criminal damage and arson was up from 3 to 14. Other crimes included three burglaries and three drugs offences, two bicycle thefts and one possession of weapons offence, compared to none reported in February.

New festival venue THERE is a new venue for this year’s Romulus and Remus Italian Festival. The event, which supports local charities, will be held at Palace Farm, Wells, on July 8. Tickets are £15 (under 5s free), to include a meal. Contact Julie Bollini on 07929 926490, Tony D’ovidio on 07770 994652 or Tony Guidi on 01749 343217.

Councillor Celia Wride became the 645th Mayor of Wells at the annual mayor-making ceremony in Wells Town Hall on May 19. She is pictured with her daughter Sarah, who will be mayoress for the year

Humanitarian talk WELLS Town Hall will be the venue for a presentation by an Oxfam volunteer who has just returned from Zambia, a video and a talk by a member of the humanitarian team. An ‘Inspiring Morning with Oxfam’ takes place on Thursday, June 28, with a 10.30am arrival for an 11am start, continuing

until 2pm. After the presentation there will be a light sandwich lunch and a chance for an informal chat with members of Oxfam and the Mid Somerset Oxfam Group. This is a free event but for catering purposes, places must be booked by contacting Chris Babb, Oxfam regional engagement manager: cbabb@oxfam.org.uk, 07795 343605.

Another litter pick NEW Mayor of Wells Councillor Celia Wride is organising another litter pick around the city. It will take place from June 1-3, and anyone who would like to take part can collect equipment at the Town Hall each day from 9am.

Walkabout festival PEOPLE are being invited to join one of three walks around Wells on Sunday, June 3. The Wells Walkabout Festival walks all start at the Quarter Jack

and are: Walk 1: 8am, six miles, via Dulcote and on to Woodford; Walk 2: noon, six miles, via Croscombe and Dinder; Walk 3: noon, 2.5 miles to Dulcote and back.

Coach fees waived MENDIP District Council has agreed to waive charges for coaches parking at Wells coach station for a trial period of a year. It is hoped to attract more visitors as a result.

Free activity tasters CENTRAL Somerset Physiotherapy and Pilates Body Aligned are holding free taster sessions at their new facilities at Mendip Court, South Horrington, during an Open Week from June 4-9. To book a free trial of activities such as Pilates and yoga, call 01749 679015, and for physio and sports massage tasters, call 01749 675568.

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wellsvoice

June 2018

n WHAT’S ON June 2 n Oceans of Plastic information day supported by Plastic Free Wells, Wells Library, 9.30am-1.30pm. Find out why this is such an important topic. Lots to see, plus activities for children. n Opening of Hilliard Society of Miniaturists’ annual art exhibition which continues until June 9 (closed June 3), Wells Town Hall. Free entry. n Croscombe Summer Market, Village Hall, Fayreway, 10am-2pm. Local produce, crafts, preserves, plants, tombola, Pimms and cream teas, light lunches. All welcome. Contact Mary Cadogan: 01749 572875. June 3 n Tortoise & Hare Run organised by Wells Classic Motorcycle Club for motorcycles and scooters of all ages. Sets off from Market Place at 10am. June 5 n Wells WI, Wells & Mendip Museum. Starts 7.30pm. Visitors welcome. June 6 n Bristol Old Vic Theatre School West Country Tour 2018: The Mill on the Floss by George Eliot, Wells Little Theatre, 7.30pm. Tickets £12, concessions £10, available from www.wellslittletheatre.com or call 01749 672280. n Health Walk in and around Wells, meet Pickwicks Cafe 11am, with Ruth/John. 60-90 minutes. n Henley Hill Farm, Haybridge, near Wells, open as part of Somerset Wildlife Trust’s ‘Somerset’s Wildlife Gardens’, 11am-4pm. Chance to see wildflower and grass rich meadows and pastures with incredible views. £4 per adult, free for under 16s. June 9 n Antiques, Crafts & Collectors Market, Wells Town Hall, 10am4pm. Admission free. June 12 n Wells Floral Art Club presents Julia Harrison with her demonstration A Feast of... at St Thomas’ Church Hall, Wells, 2.15pm. Julia is a teacher and demonstrator from Exmouth. n Wells Writers Group, The Globe Inn, Priest Row, 7pm. June 13 n Wells Board Game Group, Cheese Yard Cafe, West Horrington, 7pm9.30pm. June 14 n Open Mic Night, Wells Golf Club, from 7.30pm. A great night for musicians and spectators alike. Just turn up. For further details call 01749 675005 or email secretary@ wellsgolfclub.co.uk

June 16 n Open Day, Old Deanery Garden, with Tudor musicians, embroiderers and plant sales, 10am-4pm. n Somerset Schools Folk Dance Festival. Procession through Wells High Street 2pm, dancing on Cathedral Green 2.30pm-4.30pm. n Opening of Kate Noble: A Celebration art exhibition, Andelli Art, Mendip House, Upper Breach, South Horrington. Open Tue-Sat, 10am-5pm, until July 7. n City of Wells Almshouses Open Day, 11am-4pm. Visit the almshouses, gardens and chapel. June 19 n Migraine Support Group meeting, Methodist Hall, Southover, 10am. The first group meeting, in April, was very successful so the group has decided to meet on a monthly basis. All welcome. June 20 n Health Walk in and around Wells, meet Pickwicks Cafe 11am, with Ruth/John. 60-90 minutes. June 22 n The English Country Garden Festival, The Bishop’s Palace, 10am5pm, until June 24. June 23 n Heritage celebration in Southover and adjoining streets. Exhibition, teas, music, open gardens and open houses. n JUNE 23, Henton’s annual fete at the village hall. Fun for all the family, this year with a bouncy obstacle course for children, craft stalls and beer and burgers, a dog show and brass band. Raffle with first prize of £100. Contact: Ian Tinsley on 01749 939241 or email iantinsley@tiscali.co.uk June 24 n Armed Forces Day Speaker Evening, Swan Hotel, 8pm. Tickets £5 from Wells Film Centre. Proceeds to the Royal British Legion Wells branch. June 27 n Wells Board Game Group, Cheese Yard Cafe, West Horrington, 7pm-9.30pm. June 29 n Quiz Night, Wells Golf Club, teams of four to six, starts 7.30pm, £8 per person including food. Booking essential, call 01749 675005 or email secretary@ wellsgolfclub.co.uk June 30 n Pink Bra’ss charity concert, Wells Town Hall, 7.30pm. Tickets £10 from Specsavers in Wells.

To advertise, contact Andy on 01749 675157

n JULY 11, Sanskrit Chanting for Peace, The Prayer of Sri Rudram, for people, communities, places and the world, 7-8pm, Council Chamber, Wells Town Hall. No booking required. By donation to cover costs then proceeds to local charity. Contact 01749 674767, sue1.thorne@btopenworld.com REGULAR EVENTS Every Monday n Wells Zen Group, 7.30pm for 7.45pm start, Wells Town Hall. Drop in any week for the ancient practice of sitting ‘zazen’ meditation to relieve stress, calm and unify mind / body. Free (donation to room hire appreciated). Call Paul Crummay 07918 731137 for more details. n NEW Tai Chi class every Monday, Connect Centre, Wells, 7.30pm-8.30pm. All welcome. £5 pay as you go, more information from Bob on 07791 291886. n Wells Breakaways Short Mat Bowls Club, meet every Monday except bank holidays, Kennion Hall, Blue School, from 6.45pm. Four mats available, try for three weeks for free, beginners welcome, equipment available,refreshments. Every Tuesday n Soda Art Group, 1.30pm-3.30pm, Learning and Skills Centre, Portway. Special welcome for people with a disability. Tutorials, chances to exhibit, and expeditions out for workshops. More from 01749 673755 or 673334. n Wells Good Afternoon Choir, Seager Hall, Wells, 2pm-4pm. ‘Singing in the Afternoon’ with Grenville Jones. Everyone welcome. gac@grenvillemusic.co.uk n Smashup badminton for all abilities with music and your mates. Ages 11-18. Wells Blue Sports Centre, 7pm-8pm, £2.50 per session. n Drop-in life drawing with Molly and Paul of Wells Art Practice, 7pm9.15pm, Connect Centre, Portway, Wells. £12 per class. n Don’t struggle with your mental health difficulties alone. Come along to SEO Mental Health peer support group, Connect Centre, Wells, BA5 2BE, 2pm -3.30pm. £3 suggested voluntary donation to cover costs. n Wookey Choirworks (ladies

choir), 8pm to 9pm, Wookey Primary School hall, no auditions, singing for fun. Any queries, contact Polly at wookey. choirworks@gmail.com n Pilates classes, Wells Town Hall, 9.15am, 10.20am, 11.30am (chair based for older adults). £6. Block booking and Seniors discounts. Pre-booking essential: zest2zen@ gmail.com, 07946 310877. Every Wednesday n Wells Market, Market Place, 9am-4pm. n Wells Table Tennis Club, Seager Hall, Union Street, 6.30pm-9pm. n Mendip All Drummers community djembe (African hand-drumming) group. Meet at Croscombe Village Hall, Fayreway, from 10am-1pm. Beginners and learners welcome; drums available. £4 per session. Ring Charles on 07881 304609 or just turn up. n Wells Kettlercise, Town Hall, Market Place BA5 2RB, 6pm. £5. First class free. Pre-booking essential. Equipment reserved on booking. Contact Sally Ann Frampton, zest2zen@gmail.com, 07946 310877. n Pilates class, Wells Town Hall, Market Place, 7.15pm. Mat work class for mixed abilities, beginners welcome. £6. Block booking and Seniors discounts. Pre-booking essential: zest2zen@gmail.com, 07946 310877. Every Thursday n Tai Chi For Health & Vitality, Westbury Village Hall, 12-1pm. Any age or ability. Drop in, pay as you go, £5. n Irish Set Dancing with caller, Dinder Village Hall, 8pm-10pm, £3 to include tea and coffee. For more details, call 01458 210051.

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n Mid Somerset Wargamers, Seager Hall, Wells, 7pm. Role play and board games. Members must be 18 or over; juniors (12 or over) can attend with

Email: sales@wellsvoice.co.uk

wellsvoice

June 2018

n WHAT’S ON PILOGAFIT Pilates Yoga Fitness Fusion for Spine & Core Stability Connect Centre Mondays 5.30 - 6.30pm Thursdays 9.30 - 10.30am St Thomas Church Hall Wednesdays 5.30 - 6.30pm Drop in - Pay as you go - £5 John Beasley 01749 672482 www.pilogafit.co.uk www.taichi24.co.uk

PILOGAFIT Additional exercise class SS&L Building - Portway Avenue Free Parking Fridays 12.15 - 1.15pm Details as above adult member. facebook.com/ groups/1395072510738529/ n Drop-in life drawing with Molly and Paul of Wells Art Practice, 1.15pm-3.15pm, Connect Centre, Portway, Wells. £12 per class.

n Pilates classes, Wells Town Hall, 1pm, 2.15pm, 3.30pm. £6. Block booking and Seniors discounts. Pre-booking essential: zest2zen@ gmail.com, 07946 310877. Every Friday n Wells Country Market, Seager Hall, Union Street, 10am-noon. All home-cooked food plus craft and produce table. n Live music, The City Arms, High Street, 8.30pm. n Wells Refugee Aid collection at Wells Town Hall, 10am-11.45am. Collecting donations in Wells for refugees around the world, distribution via RAFT in Taunton. Quality warm clothes, waterproof shoes, blankets and sleeping bags always needed. n Mixed ability Pilates class, Wells Town Hall, Market Place, 9.45am, £6; and seated and standing Pilates class for older adults, 11am-noon, £5 for 65 yrs+. Discounts available. Pre-booking essential: zest2zen@ gmail.com, 07946 310877. n Zumba Gold at St Thomas’ Church Hall, Wells, 10am-11am and 11.30am-12.30pm. £5 per session (second class free if you stay for it).

DISABLED ACCESS IN ALL 3 SCREENS

More details from Carole-Anne on 07484 216900 / 01278 722292. n Tai Chi for Health class, Connect Centre, Wells, BA5 2BE, 2pm3.30pm. Very gentle exercise, can be done seated if necessary. Suitable for all. Everyone welcome. £3 donation. Every Saturday n Wells Market, Market Place, 9am-4pm. n Pay and Play badminton for all abilities, teenagers and adults, Wells Blue Sports Centre, 9am10am, £3 per session. n Badzone – Wells Junior Badminton Club for all abilities – ages 7-15. Wells Blue Sports Centre, 10am-11am, £3 per session. n Starting June 2, Ladies Beginners Golf, Wells Golf Club, 2pm. Five group coaching sessions with the club’s PGA professional, £25. Booking essential, contact Tom Maggs, 01749 679059 option 2, 07914 767625, tommagg1@gmail. com First Sunday of each month n Irish Set Dancing at Dinder Village Hall, BA5 3PF. Workshop 11am-1pm, £3; Ceili 2pm-5pm, £3;

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

bring and share lunch 1pm-2pm. For more details, call 01458 210051. First Tuesday of each month n Wells WI, Wells & Mendip Museum. Start 7.30pm. Visitors welcome. Third Sunday of each month n Gorgons Carnival Club quiz, Britannia Inn, Bath Road, Wells. Quiz starts at 7.30pm, teams of up to four people, £2 a player. There is also a raffle. More information from Shelly Ford on GorgonsCC@aol. com or 07894 078999. Third Monday of each month n Acoustic folk session, The Full Moon, Southover, 8.30pm. Musicians and spectators welcome. First and third Mondays n ‘Clickety Click’ knitting group, Wells Methodist Church Hall, Southover, 10am-noon. First, third (and fifth) Wednesdays n Open mic night, The Full Moon, Southover, 8pm. n Email brief details of events to news@wellsvoice.co.uk

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wellsvoice

June 2018

n AROUND THE SOCIETIES WELLS MACULAR SUPPORT GROUP THE Wells Macular Support Group was joined by a special guest at its recent monthly meeting. Helen McCann, a fundraiser for Guide Dogs, visited the group with her own guide dog Alfie to talk about her experience living with retinitis pigmentosa and competing in marathons. Helen recently took part in the London Marathon and raised more than £10,000. Retinitis pigmentosa leads to a slow and irreversible loss of vision. Sight loss occurs because a gene responsible for maintaining the light-sensitive cells at the back of the eye is missing half of its DNA. The condition, which is currently untreatable, affects around 15,000 people in the UK. The Wells Macular Support Group meets on the last Friday of every month, from 10am12pm, at the Denning Room, Union Street, Wells BA5 2PU. The group is organised by local people, in partnership with leading sight loss charity the Macular Society. It is one of more than 350 groups of its kind in the UK which aim to offer information, encouragement and friendship to people who are affected by macular conditions. For more information on macular degeneration, call the Macular Society’s Helpline on 0300 3030 111 or email help@ macularsociety.org WELLS BOARD GAME GROUP HAVE you ever wanted to play Rapidough, Scrabble, Blockers, cribbage, Uno and many many more? Well what are you waiting for, come to Wells Board Game Group at the Cheese Yard Cafe at West Horrington. We run every second Wednesday of the month from

Helen McCann and guide dog Alfie, right, with members of the Wells Macular Support Group 7pm-9.30pm. We have also started meeting once a month to have a fish and chip supper at the cafe before the games start. However, you don’t have to do this, just turn up for the games. As you can see, we are a very sociable group. If you have some games, bring them along, or if not there are always plenty available. It’s only a £1 charge. For more information, phone Linda Bird on 07849 688040. WELLS & MENIP ASTRONOMERS WELLS & Mendip Astronomers will present a talk by Mark Woodland BSc (Open) MinstP FRAS, A Presentation on Astrophysics, at Wells & Mendip Museum in June. Astrophysics is all around us. The talk will explore aspects from spacecraft navigation to black hole photography, other worlds, and parallel universes. The talk is open to the public and all are welcome – join us as we take a voyage through the astrophysical universe. Members free; non-members £3; families £5; students £2. It will take place at the museum at 8 Cathedral Green, Wells BA5 2UE, on Friday, June 15, at 7.30pm. WELLS WI

Wells Board Game Group members engrossed in a game of Pictureka

AT the AGM held at Wells & Mendip Museum on May 1, Jan Hayward, outgoing president, reported that Wells WI has grown in the last two years. She

To advertise, contact Andy on 01749 675157

The WI banner parade in Wells gave thanks to Chris and Jenny for their efforts in putting the programme together, Kathryn and more recently Jane for arranging walks, Jenny and Wendy for the craft sessions which are to be taken up by Karen, Anne for setting up the book club and Debbie and Vicky for fundraising events which included a walking treasure hunt for dementia care, a tea party at Jane’s, two Macmillan teas and the collection of shoe boxes at Christmas. We now have a good social media presence, thanks to Kimberley, with our Facebook page and WhatsApp group. Zoe and Angela have worked hard over the past three years providing refreshments for our monthly meetings, but we are now looking for other volunteers to take this on. More recently we hosted a summer banner parade to celebrate the 100th anniversary

of the Somerset Federation, with 350-400 WI members parading from the cathedral to St Cuthbert’s Church, where tea and cakes were provided. Thanks are due to the Wells WI ladies who baked cakes, Wookey Hole WI ladies who served, and two ladies from St Cuthbert’s Church who provided and served the teas and coffees. Jan finished by thanking everyone for making her two years as president so enjoyable. Jane Pyatt thanked Jan for her two years as president and invited nominations for the role. In the absence of any other nominations, Jan proposed Jane to be president for the coming year, this was seconded and agreed by members. Jane agreed to take on the role for 12 months, but stressed that she would not stand for another year. Wells WI will then need someone else to take on the role to avoid having to disband. Jenny proposed a summer outing Saturday visit to the Hauser and Wirth centre in Bruton where there is a exhibition of works by Alexander Calder, on Saturday, August 18. The visit will include a tour of the gallery at 10.30am. Jenny invited ideas for lunch and will check whether a picnic may be permitted. Sam informed members of a choir concert to be held by the Wells Good Afternoon Choir on Saturday, July 7, at 7.30pm at St Cuthbert’s Church. This is a fundraising event in aid of the charity Hope Tomorrow which provides a chemotherapy bus, enabling 20 patients a day to receive their chemotherapy close to home rather than travelling many miles to hospital. Den, chair of the Labour Party in Wells, spoke about their involvement in raising funds for the food bank in Wells, and in working to improve welfare for older people and trauma awareness in refugees in Bristol. Jane spoke about the upcoming Wells Theatre Festival whose patron is Dame Judy Dench. She suggested two performances for us to attend as a group, Chopping Chillies at the Almshouses on July 14 or The Great Train Robbery at Cedars Hall on July 12. The meeting closed with a SWISH swap event and refreshments. Val Pettman

Email: sales@wellsvoice.co.uk

wellsvoice

June 2018

n AROUND THE SOCIETIES WELLS CIVIC SOCIETY THE lecture room of Wells museum was ram-packed for Wells Civic Society’s May meeting, when Colin Price talked about the railways in Wells, particularly the days when this tiny city had no lfewer than three stations, and a smaller population than now. Having thanked Clare Blackmore and Julia Wood for their help in compiling his archive material, Colin gave his audience a fascinating whistle-stop tour of how this concentration of steam came about in the mid- to late-1850s, and how Priory Road came to have a station, soon followed by Wells station which was only about 100 yards away, these being followed by the famous strawberry line with its Tucker Street station in 1870; an astonishing explosion of development within a 20-year period. Rapid development certainly, but perhaps joined-up thinking was not too much in evidence,

Colin Price gave a talk about the railways in Wells since one thing the three lines, the Somerset Central, the East Somerset and the Cheddar Valley, did not do was connect with each other. Priory Road was the Somerset Central terminus of a short branch line from Glastonbury, Wells station was the terminus from Witham on the East Somerset, and Cheddar came in from Yatton and did, indeed, transport vast amount of strawberries. In fact, the use of railways was originally conceived as a vehicle for the moving of goods,

not people. Besides strawberries, up in 1914, Colin had shown locally hewn stone was us not just those iconic little transported, and the railways railways but another picture had a real influence on the local of Wells, its rural aspect and economy and employment. lack of development. He has a Even Buffalo Bill’s circus tremendous facility for mentally was brought by train to Wells in superimposing onto those old 1905, as was Bertram Mills’ in photos the current landmarks, the early 50s. and could tell us where notable But, of course, it all came to modern buildings now stood; an end with Dr Beeching issuing the leisure centre was just one of his Special Notices and there many instances. has been no rail activity in Wells The next meeting of the civic since 1963, and there is now not society marks a slight change of a great deal of physical evidence plan. Cedars Hall was to have of their existence. Colin wonders been the venue, but as many if some of the railway buildings members have been to it, the might not have been worthy of nearby pavilion, by the same greater preservation. architect, is where the society There was, however, a City will meet for a look at this new of Wells locomotive, number building, and for prosecco and 34092, which has been restored strawberries to mark the end of and preserved in running order, the society year. although it now lives in East This will be at 7.30pm Lancashire, while a Tucker Street on Wednesday, June 13. station sign, pointing the way to Further details about this it, recently fetched £2,400. event or the society in general But, with his collection of can be obtained from www. black and white photos of that wellscivicsociety.org.uk or earlier age, one notable one chris.f.winter@btinternet.com or being of many young Wells Chris Winter on 01749 673610. men boarding a train sign Richard Hanks12:44 P WGC Try before youto Buy Advert 87x120.qxp_Layout 1 20/03/2018

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U N

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7 8

TXT PERT

6 is M, N or O 7 is P, Q, R or S 8 is T, U or V 9 is W, X, Y or Z

4 4 3

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SOLUTIONS 24

Each horizontal row, each 2x2 square and each column must contain all the numbers 1-4.

Down

1. 26242623 (8) 2. 872442 (6) 4. 78683 (5) 5. 266339 (6)

EASY for children

SUDOKU

1. 228466 (6) 3. 2427 (4) 6. 463676 (6) 7. 363 (3) 8. 38653 (5)

The numbers point you to the letters on a phone keypad

Clues Across

2 is A, B or C 3 is D, E or F tter words4 is G, H or I 5 is J, K, or L

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This month: Literary terms

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TXT PERT

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wellsvoice

June 2018

n SPORT

Pupils coached by gold medal winner GOLD medal-winning netball player Eboni Beckford Chambers ran a coaching session for students at Wells Blue School in May. It was Eboni’s first school visit since winning Commonwealth Games gold with England in Australia. A member of the Team Bath netball team, the visit was courtesy of her employers and Team Bath sponsors Mogers Drewett, the West Country law firm which has an office in Wells, and was arranged by the Blue School’s head of PE Sam Holland. Eboni ran a coaching session for Year 8 and 9 students with a focus on possession and keeping the ball around the circle, before taking part in a question and answer session about both her sporting and legal careers. “It was great to see the girls in action and their enthusiasm,” she said.

England netball champion Eboni Beckford Chambers taking the coaching session at Wells Blue School “Hopefully I can inspire them not only to continue their academic studies but also their sporting careers – that’s the message we want to convey, that you don’t have to give up one to focus on the other. “The girls said they had never imagined they would be

able to hold a gold medal, so to one girl to pursue their dreams, be able to come here and share whatever that might be, it will that experience with them is a have made a difference.” really big thing for me. I was Eboni is a trainee solicitor in once a school pupil looking up to the Dispute Resolution team at the England girls, wishing and Mogers Drewett and also takes wanting to wear that red dress a key role in local initiatives that with pride. encourage the younger generation WGC Cygnet Advert 87x120 Final.qxp_Layout 1 lifestyles. 20/03/2018 16:15 Page 1 “If these visits impact even to lead active

@wellsgolfclub

Cygnet Membership

Eboni Beckford Chambers gets her message across

Kids’ tennis introduction day TENNIS for Kids returns in June to give children in Wells their first taste of the sport. Run by Wells Tennis Club, Tennis for Kids is aimed at giving five- to eight-year-olds a start in tennis on mini courts with slower balls and lots of fun activities. The course will run from Sunday, June 10, for six weeks at a cost of £25. All participants receive their own racquet, T-shirt and balls to keep. Wells Tennis Club coach Kevin Durney said: “Tennis for Kids was a big hit last year so

I’m delighted to be able to run it again. We start right at the beginning to build confidence and everyone gets a chance to hit lots and lots of balls.” Dates and booking for summer tennis camps during the half term (May 29) and school summer holiday is also now available. For more information and to sign up for Tennis for Kids visit clubspark.lta.org.uk/ tennisforkids. For Wells Tennis Club holiday tennis camps visit www.wellstc.co.uk

Got News? Call 07906 499655

A brand new package specially designed for those players struggling to find the time or inclination to play a full 18 Holes. New 12 Rounds, 12 Hole Cygnet Course Package for only £195, available 7 days a week after 2pm. To discuss in more detail please call in or contact our Membership Co-ordinator on 01749 675005 email secretary@wellsgolfclub.co.uk

Why not join ?

Your local Golf Club is nearer than you think! Celebrating 125 years and open to the public. Non-members are always welcome.

www.wellsgolfclub.co.uk

Wells Golf Club, Blackheath Lane, Wells BA5 3DS

Email: news@wellsvoice.co.uk

wellsvoice

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Edition(s):

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wellsvoice

June 2018

n SPORT

Golf club hosts its first Open Mic Night WELLS Golf Club continued its 125th year celebrations and events programme development with its first ever Open Mic Night in May. Hosted by Ross Kirk , enthusiastic and supportive spectators were treated to a wide spectrum of local musical talent including jazz, folk, pop and even heavy metal. Ross, who has been hosting Open Mic Night events in the Wells area for nearly 15 years, said: “I am delighted to be bringing this event to Wells Golf Club on a regular basis. The clubhouse bar is a perfect venue with generous space, balcony views and an affordable menu for a very enjoyable evening. “Our second Open Mic Night will be at Wells Golf Club on Thursday, June 14, at 7.30pm, so whether you’re an accomplished musician, just starting out, or a keen spectator, just come along. There’s no charge for spectators

Musicians entertain the audience at Wells Golf Club’s first Open Mic Night or musicians and you’re guaranteed a terrific night.” Other forthcoming events in the clubhouse include quiz nights regularly held at the end of each month, with teams of four to six

people determinedly competing to move up the leader board. Starting at 7.30pm, the £8 entry fee includes a meal provided during a half-time interval. Other thriving culinary events

include monthly Gourmet Nights, Wednesday Pudding Nights and a Sunday Lunch Carvery. For further details, contact 01749 675005 or visit www. wellsgolfclub.co.uk

After the huge success of our first one, our next

OPEN MIC NIGHT Will be at

Wells Golf Club on

Thursday 14th June at 7.30pm A great evening for musicians and spectators alike, all in a chilled out, relaxed, fun atmosphere... Successful Wells table tennis players with their trophies. Above, from left, Geoff Claire, Paul Hambleton, Peter Nash and Phil Taylor of Wells Table Tennis; and left, Paul Lowe and Martin Lee of Wells Whiff Whaffs

Got News? Call 07906 499655

Just turn up on the night, or email Ross (your host) at rosskirkmusic@live.co.uk for more details. Our first night was very busy, so please arrive early if you want to play! For more information on our great venue, contact Wells Golf Club on 01749 675005 or email secretary@wellsgolfclub.co.uk

Email: news@wellsvoice.co.uk

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