wellsvoice March 2018 Issue 9
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Musicals theme to film festival Girl Guides, Brownies and Rainbows pictured in Wells Methodist Church on World Thinking Day – February 22, the birthday of Scout and Guide Movement founder Lord Baden-Powell and his wife Olave, who served as World Chief Guide. On this day each year, Girl Guides and Girl Scouts around the world take part in activities and reflect on the movement and the issues affecting them and their global community
Go ahead for 203 homes to be built
Shop viewings... new cafe... pub has new landlords... new vape shop... Turn to page 4
Reading, robots and arithmetic
Planning approval delights housebuilder – page 5
WELLS BED SHOP
Chance to sing along to hit sensation on first night of this year’s celebration of film Turn to page 3
Conference will discuss artificial intelligence and the future of education Turn to page 10
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March 2018
n NEWS
Strong reaction to draft plan for development WELLS City Council has said that it is appalled at the apparent lifting of a covenant protecting the rugby ground from development. The comments come in response to Mendip District Council’s consultation on the Local Plan Part II. The city council had requested that the rugby ground be designated as a Local Green Space, but says the request has been ignored. “Wells City Council is appalled that the covenant on this public amenity land, precluding development and protecting it for recreational use, appears to have been lifted,” the council says in its statement. It asks why only one of the 11 sites it asked to be allocated as Local Green Spaces has been included in the draft document: land east of Churchill Road/Sealy Crescent. “Wells City Council objects
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most strongly to the omission of the Wells Rugby Club Ground and Wells Athletic Ground from the list of Local Green Spaces,” the submission continues. “These sites are of key importance to the community as amenity open spaces, extending beyond their current usage.” The city council says that it accepts in principle the proposal to build homes on land off Elm Close in the future, once other sites have been used up, but asks that “any development approval will automatically include a condition that an area will be provided for an extension to the Wells City Cemetery”. The chance to comment on the draft Local Plan is now over. Responses will be reviewed by Mendip District Council, which will decide on any amendments before the plan is submitted to the Secretary of State and considered by an independent planning inspector.
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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 April edition, please contact us by March 14.
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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Robin and Tanith Tothill are nearing the end of two decades in the Wells Trading Post store, where there is now a ‘Book of Rememberings’
Couple ready to raise glass to the future when Trading Post closes ROBIN and Tanith Tothill of Wells Trading Post are getting ready to party on their final day in the store. They bring down the curtain on 20 years of selling fashion and furniture from their West Street emporium on March 31. And Tanith is inviting customers old and new to join them for a day of celebration. “Please feel free to bring a bottle and come and celebrate with us,” she said. “This is the end of an era but we’re going to be making a fresh start, so it will be a celebration day, a day of looking forward.” The couple will continue to trade at markets, fairs, festivals and online, and more
information will be on their new website in April. They will also be holding a clearance sale on April 7 for any items left unsold or unclaimed. For now, they have started a ‘Book of Rememberings’ in which people have been recording their favourite memory or purchase. Entries include “A Beware of the Cat sign” and “A musical Seventies cigarette dispenser”, as well as a mysterious message in Korean that Tanith would like to have translated. “We want to thank all of the people who have been fabulous, loyal customers over the years,” she said. “We’ll miss 90 per cent of you.”
An architect’s drawing of the proposed new takeway unit
Plan for takeaway outside Kudos RAM’S could return to Wells selling kebabs and other grilled food from a prefabricated unit in the car park of Kudos nightclub in Princes Road. A planning application has been made to Mendip District Council to use a corner of the car park for a hot food takeway. The proposed hours of operation are 3pm-12.30am
Sundays to Thursdays, and 3pm1am on Fridays and Saturdays. The Ram’s van had to move from its spot by the hand car wash on the opposite side of the road when the redevelopment of that site began. Dominos and Pets Corner are due to move into the two new units being built there later in the year.
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March 2018
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n NEWS
City will be alive to the sound of musicals MUSICALS is the theme of this year’s Wells Film Festival which takes place in April. Highlights of the third annual festival, from April 27-29, will include: n A sing-along open-air screening of The Greatest Showman at The Bishop’s Palace. n A screening of cult classic The Rocky Horror Picture Show which will be preceded by a fancy dress competition. n A screening of West Side Story at Cedars Hall with a prescreening talk about Leonard Bernstein. The sing-along screening of the surprise musical hit sensation of 2018, The Greatest
Showman, will take place on the palace’s Croquet Lawn on the opening night, Friday, April 27. The musical epic based on the life of PT Barnum, whose soundtrack has topped the charts in the UK and the USA, is an original musical that celebrates the birth of showbusiness and tells of a visionary who rose from nothing to create a spectacle that became a worldwide sensation. The soundtrack has already won a Golden
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Globe for Best Original Song and has been nominated for an Oscar. The film has been hugely well received and has been described as giving cinemagoers an hour and a half of “pure enjoyment and escapism”. The drawbridge will open at 7.30pm with the film starting at 9pm. Tickets will include a barbecue meal and drink, and the bar will be open all evening. There will be pre-show entertainment from Wookey Hole Circus, and just before the screening begins, there will be a fancy dress competition. Film-goers should take their own low-backed seating or blanket and an umbrella as the show will go on whatever the weather. Tickets are priced £20, available from Wells Film Centre or www.wellsfilmcentre. co.uk, which has more information about the whole film festival programme. The Greatest Showman, left, is being screened at The Bishop’s Palace on April 27
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March 2018
n NEWS
Keen interest in trading opportunities WELLS is attracting a lot of interest among businesses keen to take on the shop units being vacated in the city centre. The East clothing store in Wells High Street is the latest to face closure after the company went into administration. But Paul Knight of chartered surveyors RMW Knight sounded an upbeat note, saying: “There are more tenants looking than there are properties available.” He said that there had been half a dozen viewings already at The Present Company site in the Market Place, all from organisations not yet represented in Wells, and that more viewings are booked. East, which opened its first
East in Wells High Street store in 1994, employs five staff in Wells. “Currently the store continues to trade and there have been no redundancies. The joint administrators are looking at all options available,” said a spokesperson. Of the companies rumoured
and cafe in Market Yard, in the premises that were occupied by Markethouse. It is being run by Aloisia Williams and her husband Danny, who was the general manager at The Sheppey at Godney for a number of years. “We’re baking a lot of our own artisan breads and patisseries,” said Danny. “I’m a huge foodie, I love cooking. That’s driven the kitchen side of it. I love making people happy and giving them good products.” He said that LOAF.bakehouse will be very much a family cafe, with a play area for children, and that there will be a big emphasis on vegetarian food.
Brothers Lee and Ben Chard, pictured above, are taking over the running of The Sherston in Priory Road. Their family has been running The Travellers Rest in Pensford for more than 15 years, but they spent a lot of their childhood growing up in Wells. ‘We are very motivated and determined to make The Sherston Hotel a success and a place people look forward to visiting,’ said Lee. They will be opening the doors for a Meet and Greet event on Friday, March 2, from 6.30pm onwards, to which all are invited. to be coming to Wells, Seasalt clothing company told Wells Voice that they have not yet confirmed a shop in Wells, and The White Company said that there are no plans at present to open here. Wilko was going to open a branch in the premises recently vacated by What!, but has abandoned several planned openings around the country after poor Christmas trading.
The new vape shop
Danny Williams at LOAF.bakehouse February saw the opening of the LOAF.bakehouse bakery
A new vape shop has taken over the former premises of Hilary’s Antiques in St Cuthbert Street. City Vape is being run in association with Vape At No 1 in Shepton Mallet. It will sell e-cigarettes, starter kits, mods, tanks, coils, e-liquid and accessories. The shop will be open five days a week, from Tuesday to Saturday.
‘Wells continues to punch above its weight’ Paul Knight of Wells chartered surveyors RMW Knight assesses the commercial situation in Wells city centre WE have seen a great deal of disconcerting commentary on social media regarding the number of available shops to let in the city centre of Wells over the last month or so. Despite the fact that this can be an unsettling time for those staff employed in the shops that are scheduled to close, we can reassure everyone that Wells still is regarded as an attractive retail destination by local, regional and national retailers and that,
with the possible exception of the former Co-Op supermarket, there is strong occupier demand in all of the available space. For a conurbation of its size, Wells continues to punch above its weight. It is not untypical for retailers to undergo a review of their portfolio at this time of the year and we regard this as an opportunity for the city to refresh its offer and give an opportunity to other retailers to gain representation in our city centre. Wells is unusual inasmuch as, it being a medieval city, it does not have the standard size and shape shops that would
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appeal to the majority of national multiples and, therefore, still affords opportunities for local and regional operators to gain representation in the city. There is, of course, national trend towards out of town and online retail and there are many larger city centres with a good proportion of the available retail space sitting vacant as a result of an oversupply of retail space relative to current demand. It is our view that experiential retailers (ie. those offering a service such as hairdressers, tattoo parlours, nail bars, coffee shops, restaurants, shoe shops and opticians) where there is a
degree of personal interaction required, will continue to thrive. It is a long time since anybody could buy ‘bulky goods’ in town centres as retailers of white goods, furniture and DIY products have tended to locate to purpose-built sheds in out of town locations. Retail expansion is, of course, a closely guarded secret by most retailers and sadly we are unable to breach client confidentialities as to who might be taking what space but we are optimistic that the majority of the available space will be taken up by the summer and that there will be a broader choice for young and old.
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March 2018
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n NEWS
The entrance to the field where the homes will be built
Bovis ‘delighted’ after new homes approved HOUSEBUILDER Bovis Homes has said it is delighted after a scheme to build 203 new homes on land on the outskirts of Wells was given the go ahead. At a meeting of Mendip District Council’s planning board on February 21, councillors unanimously approved plans for the Bovis Homes development at Priory Fields on Wookey Hole Road. A decision on the application had been deferred in December, but the latest meeting heard that Bovis Homes had addressed issues of concern that were raised then, including the number of affordable homes and the travel plan. They had also offered an additional £50,000 to Somerset County Council towards transport and infrastructure
improvements in Wookey Hole. Malcolm Gilmore, regional technical director at Bovis Homes, told Wells Voice: “We are delighted with the outcome and would like to thank Wookey Hole Residents Association, St Cuthbert Out Parish Council, Councillor Mike Pullin, Mendip District Council and all those who provided constructive feedback on the plans. “We have worked hard with stakeholders to maximise the benefits of this development, including redesigning it from a predominantly three, four and five-bed scheme, to a one, two and three-bed location, to be much more in line with local need. “The development will deliver 203 new homes, including 51 properties designated as
Vodafone forced to think again VODAFONE is considering its options after the refusal of permission for a base station with 15m-high mast at Whiting Way in Wells. Mendip District Council decided that Vodafone and Telefonica had not justified the need for a new site rather than making use of an existing mast, building or other structure. Judith Buckland, who lives in nearby Portway Avenue and had campaigned against the base station, said: “Vodafone, and other companies, simply must recognise that they need to properly consider the siting of these masts and ensure that
they are not near residential sites. It may be more expensive for them but they cannot simply ride roughshod over residents’ legitimate concerns in order to save themselves money.” A spokesperson for Vodafone said: “Vodafone and Telefonica identified that they need to improve the coverage to their customers in Wells and proposed a base station in Whiting Way, close to the Waitrose car park to provide 2G, 3G and 4G coverage to Vodafone and Telefonica customers. The proposed site was refused by the Local Planning Authority. CTIL are presently considering our options locally.”
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affordable housing, as well as new cycle ways and footpaths, three play areas, land for the new primary school – planned for 2022 – and a £50,000 contribution towards local infrastructure and safeguarding the future of the 67 bus. “We are now looking forward to getting on site and remain committed to working closely with our neighbours.” At the planning board meeting, Councillor Pullin, the ward councillor, said: “Bovis have been very positive and haven’t been afraid to meet us and have been open about the whole thing. I believe they will do what they say.” Councillors still had reservations about the impact of the extra housing, including on the local road network, schools and doctors’ surgeries. More than 170 homes are already being built at the adjoining David Wilson Homes site. Councillor Danny Unwin said that he uses the Wookey Hole Road constantly, and said: “It is an absolute nightmare. Sadly
there will be an accident sooner rather than later.” Councillor Bryan Beha said: “What’s been overlooked is that Wookey Hole is probably the area’s principal tourist attraction. The road to Wookey Hole is perilous. Wookey Hole village is a serious traffic issue.” Somerset County Council Highway Authority had no objections, though, and Councillor Tom Killen summed up the mood of several councillors when he said: “I think we’re between a rock and a hard place. “Have we taken this application as far as we can to get the maximum public benefit before it goes to appeal? I think we probably have.” There were pleas to try to retain the land set aside for the primary school for community use if the school is not subsequently built. There was also discussion about the potential use of the £50,000, including its use to subsidise the threatened 67 bus service.
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n NEWS
Night of song with male voice choir THE harmonic sounds of a leading male voice choir are set to ring out around St Cuthbert’s Church in Wells in March. Wells Lions Club is staging another of its popular charity concerts, this time featuring Bristol Male Voice Choir, one of the best in the West Country. It will take place on Saturday, March 17, starting at 7.30pm. All previous Lions concerts in Wells have sold out, raising thousands for local charities. The proceeds from this concert will be presented to Children’s Hospice South West which provides care for children with life-limiting conditions, and serves the Wells area. The concert is being jointly sponsored by The Square, a children’s soft play area in Wells, and Bowley’s Garage, Wells. Bristol Male Voice Choir is celebrating its Golden Jubilee
this year, and this will be the choir’s first major performance of the year. The two-hour concert will feature more than a dozen classic male voice choir songs, performed by more than 40 stirring voices. Supporting the choir will be Wookey’s violin prodigy, 13-year-old Poppy McGhee, who has received a £200 sponsorship grant from Wells Lions towards her musical training. There will be a full bar available before and during the concert, and a raffle with a first prize worth £350 donated by The Swan Hotel, Wells – a night for two people in the hotel’s Cathedral Suite. Tickets are on sale now, priced at £15 for the centre pews and £10 for a side seat. Telephone 01458 210926, or email millerburt@btinternet. com.
Bristol Male Voice Choir will be performing in Wells in March
Wells City Council February/March Wells City Council meetings n The Planning Committee has been busy responding to householder planning applications as usual but also trying to keep up with the rapidly changing situations with telecomms mast applications. Unfortunately there is no statutory duty for the city (parish) council to be consulted or informed on these mast applications; due to the government ‘fast-track’ for them we have very little influence on the process. Local councillors try to do their best to support residents, and comments are submitted when the opportunity arises.
n The City and Tourism Forum brings together representatives from many key groups in the city; we try to coordinate the dates of major events, particularly those planned for weekends through the warmer months. Road closures, traffic and parking arrangements are vital to good event planning. n The Finance Committee meets every month; as well as having overall responsibility for the proper management of the council’s financial affairs, this committee administers the community grants budget. Application details are on our website www.wells.gov.uk n Many residents are concerned about parking and speeding problems in and around the city; local councillors are seeking to address these issues as
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A knit and natter session at Abbeyfield House in Wells
Sociable group get together to natter and knit for good cause KNITTING needles are clicking away at Abbeyfield House in Wells as residents meet once a week at the ‘knit and natter’ sessions. And it’s not just the ladies that are hard at work – Bill Manning, Peter Trafford and John Self, who are all in their 90s, regularly join the group together with Claire Rush and Cicely Whitmarsh for a coffee and a catch up while they knit away. The residents are busy knitting squares that are made up into colourful blankets that
are sent to Ethiopia as part of Hamlin Fistuala UK. The charity was set up to establish a hospital in Addis Ababa specifically for women with childbirth injuries and each mother and baby is given a shawl or blanket. The residents at Abbeyfield enjoy a range of social activities including weekly coffee mornings and talks, and during the summer months outings to gardens centres and cafes for a cream tea. To find out more about Abbeyfield House, call Isobel Panton on 01749 679049.
they respond to the Mendip Local Development Plan, and start to prepare the Wells Neighbourhood Plan. Contact your local councillor for information. n The public are welcome at all city council meetings and have an opportunity to speak; details are on our website www.wells.gov.uk /The Council.
to Somerset County Council Highways on 0845 601 0939, www.somerset.gov.uk/roadsparking-and-transport/ or contact the Town Hall reception desk for help: reception@wells. gov.uk
Open spaces n Celia Wride (deputy mayor) will be leading community groups in the Great British Spring Clean on the weekend of March 2-4. This national event started in the year of the Queen’s Jubilee and has continued to grow as people take interest in caring for their local open spaces. c.wride@wells.gov.uk n You can report potholes or other defects on the highway
City of Wells annual parish meeting n Everyone is welcome to attend the annual parish meeting on Wednesday, March 14, at Wells Town Hall at 6pm; this is not a city council meeting but a meeting of the local government electors in the City of Wells. Anyone who is entitled to vote in local elections in Wells may speak and vote at the annual parish meeting, so come along and have your say. Refreshments will be available. F White, Town Clerk
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March 2018
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Sadler’s Brasserie is located on Sadlers Street in Wells. We opened in 2016 serving local, seasonal food cooked by Head Chef Jason Porter who has worked in some of the UK’s top kitchens and returns to his hometown of Wells to put Sadler’s firmly on the culinary map.
IN SEASON THIS MONTH FROM CHEF JASON PORTER
From the land Cauliflower, venison, swede, spinach From the sea Cockles, oysters, red mullet, hake
SEASONAL CHOICES FROM OUR MENU Pan fried red mullet filet Aubergine caviar, deep fried baby squid, sweet red pepper sauce Exmoor venison loin Pastilla, chard, celeriac, hazelnuts
READERS’ OFFER
FREE CARAFE OF WINE FOR TWO Make a booking with us for lunch or dinner and enjoy a carafe of our house red or white wine with your meal. To make a booking call 01749 672 056 and quote 'Wells Voice' Each guest must have a main course Available for bookings in March
NEWS FROM SADLER’S ANDREW EDWARDS: SOUS CHEF
We are pleased to welcome on board Andrew Edwards who joins the kitchen team as Sous Chef. Andy is from Cheddar and has been working at The Riverside pub in his home town. Andy says ‘I have been working in kitchens for the past 5 years and joining Sadler’s is a real step up from the pub food I am used to cooking. I am looking forward to learning classical cooking from Jason’.
NEW CASUAL DINING MENU
This month we have launched a new casual dining menu that will be available for both lunch and dinner. This will provide our local diners with a few simple classics.
WIN A DINNER FOR TWO IN SADLER’S BRASSERIE Just answer this question: When was the Vicars Close completed? 1248 1348 1448 Please email your answer to competition@sadlersbrasserie.com
Sadler Street, Wells, Somerset BA5 2RR | www.sadlersbrasserie.com | 01749 672056
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March 2018
n FROM THE TOWN HALL
So much for which to thank volunteers The spotlight this month falls on the volunteers who help to make Wells so special WELLS is a city rich in tradition and historical values, and it really is an honour to be part of a community providing so much beauty. From the rich colour of the Wells in Bloom décor to the annual events which draw in the masses, it has a lot to offer in various forms or guises, and not just the casual Hot Fuzz meme – no, Wells is a prosperous and exciting city to be a part of. It’s hard to know where to start in terms of discussing what we have available to us as residents but year on year it manages to draw in crowds of people at various events. From the food festival and May Fair to the film festival and reindeer parade, the local volunteers work tirelessly to ensure we have something to be proud of.
The Moat Boat Races are organised by Wells Lions and Wells Air Cadets And who could forget the yearly ‘debacle’ on the moat? Who hasn’t laughed as their friend has ploughed in to the mucky waters as their unsinkable raft falls apart. We don’t have masses of industry but what we do have is heart, passion and history. We also have a wealth of people giving up their time to continuously provide us with reasons to be proud of this city. Without our volunteers we
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wouldn’t have the beautiful floral displays, the community events on the Green and all over the city, you wouldn’t have the incredible and unique reindeer parade which graces our High Street every year. Moments in time we all have great memories of and would sorely miss if they unfortunately were cancelled. If you need yet another reminder of why to love our city then just look to the community spirit shown towards the
resurrection of our local park. When vandals tried to dull our shine the heroes in the local community pulled together to ensure the children of Wells and surrounding areas were not left without a place to play for too long. Donations flooded in, people were willing to donate their time to help fix the damage, the generosity shown elevated spirits. A true testament to us as a society. Let’s also not forget the other kind of volunteers. Those who work tirelessly for our safety and welfare. These are those we sometimes forget about. These are our emergency services. Firefighters, first aiders, police. There are many, many people among those services who give up their time to provide us with vital services. Without these people we wouldn’t have a city, we wouldn’t have a community, we wouldn’t have Wells.
Guests have ball as nostalgia night raises more than £1,000 for charity A FUNDRAISING Night of Nostalgia in Wells Town Hall has raised more than £1,000 for charity. More than 100 people attended the event, organised by Tina Blackwill as a thank you to Marie Curie, the organisation which helped when her father was ill. “The ballroom was absolutely packed with around 120 guests. Everybody had made such a wonderful effort with their attire, dressed in clothes from their favourite era or just extremely glamorous,” said Tina. “The Town Crier did a wonderful poem about the event which also included Marie Curie, which was the whole reason behind my evening, to raise as much money as possible for the wonderful nurses who do such an important job.” Marie Curie nurse Ashley Gwinn gave a speech during the evening about what his job entails. “It was a very touching and moving speech. For me it really brought back what myself and my family had been through
Tina Blackwill with Town Crier Len Sweales, top, and Tessa Munt when my dad passed away,” said Tina. Music came from the Silver Levels Jazz Band and singer Lin Phelps. There was a raffle that raised nearly £500 alone, and Just Ales, which ran the bar, is donating all profits to Marie Curie. The event was such a success that Tina is planning to hold another one.
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March 2018
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n NEWS
Pair nominated for top music award TWO former Wells Blue School students have been nominated for a top national music award and are heading for a glittering ceremony in Belfast. Ford Collier and Alex Garden, both 21, perform together as The Drystones and have been chosen as nominees for BBC Radio 2’s Young Folk Award 2018. The Drystones were selected from hundreds of entries to attend a weekend of workshops and performances in Kendal. A panel of judges then chose just four to go on the folk awards in April. Alex said: “We had such an inspiring time in Kendal. We worked with other top-class young trad musicians from all over the UK and had guidance from folk music legends Eliza Carthy and Tim van Eyken. We
didn’t just make music, we made friends for life too.” The duo met at the Blue School and have been performing together since they were 15. They started out at Priddy Folk Festival and have gone on to play at festivals around the country, including the Glastonbury Festival. In 2015 they supported Ray Davies and The Shires at the Glastonbury Extravaganza and in the same year won the Larmer Tree Festival Breakthrough Music Award. Last year they released their third album, We Happy Few, which received first-rate reviews and was featured as one of Songlines Magazine’s Top of the World albums. Ford and Alex graduated with first-class honours degrees last summer and are now launching
The Drystones duo Ford Collier, left, and Alex Garden their careers as professional musicians but they haven’t forgotten their roots. Both are closely involved with the Priddy Rising project run by the Blue School and Priddy Folk Festival, and in the coming months will be passing on their experience to the next generation of young folk musicians in Wells.
April will be an exciting and busy month for the duo. Ford said: “We’re really looking forward to the tour we’ve been putting together for April, travelling all over England and Scotland, and what better way to kick it off than a trip to Belfast for the Radio 2 Folk Awards ceremony.”
Big-name line-up sees tickets for 2018 comedy festival selling fast SOME shows for this Comedy Awardsyear’s Wells Comedy nominated comics Festival sold out galore, including within days of tickets double award winner going on sale. John Kearns and All tickets for fellow nominees appearances by Sara Joseph Morpurgo, Pascoe, James Acaster Elf Lyons, Ahir Shah, and Mark Watson Lucy Pearman, Ben were quickly snapped Target, Adam Hess, up. Mat Ewins, Kwame But there are still Asante, Gein’s Family plenty available for Giftshop and Steen other acts, with the Raskopoulos. festival bigger then “This is another ever in its fourth year. huge year for the Wells Other comics Comedy Festival, performing at the nearly doubling in size three-day fest from compared to 2017,” Richard Herring will May 25-27 include said festival founder Limmy, Tim Key, Hal be performing at the and producer Ben comedy festival Cruttenden Desiree Williams. Burch, and Paul Foot. “I couldn’t be Also announced are shows happier with the line-up so far, from TV names including The covering all areas of the comedy Chase’s Paul Sinha, Live at the spectrum. And there’s plenty Apollo star Dane Baptiste, Never more to come.” Mind the Buzzcocks favourite Venues this year are Cedars Tony Law, local hero Richard Hall, The Venue, the Little Herring with his popular podcast Theatre, the White Hart Hotel and Upstart Crow’s Spencer and Tramways. Jones. Tickets are on sale from www. There are Edinburgh wellscomfest.com.
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WELLS GOLF CLUB Your local golf course is nearer than you think. Celebrating 125 years and open to the public.
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March 2018
n NEWS
Exploring a world shared with robots A MAJOR conference on how Artificial Intelligence (AI) is going to shape the future of schools and society at large is being held in Wells in May. The conference will be held in Cedars Hall and is being organised by Simon Balderson, assistant head (digital strategy) and director of studies at Wells Cathedral School. “We’ve been thinking about the future of education and how schools are going to have to adapt,” he said. “We’re in the middle of the fourth Industrial Revolution. The change is going to be so fundamental that schools need to prepare now. Depending on who you speak to robots are either going to put lots of teachers out of a job or help them do their jobs better – or at least change the face of education.” The first event of its kind in the UK, AI Conf. is billed as: “An exploration of the future of education: how AI and machine learning will change our lives”. While a large part of the focus is on what it will mean for schools, the event is not just for people involved in education, but for anyone who is interested in how AI is going to change society. “It’s about the philosophical, ethical and practical issues we will all face,” said Simon. During the conference, there will be keynote speeches and workshops from some of the people who are pushing the boundaries of machine learning. A range of technology will also be demonstrated.
The robot, left, that will be seen in the foyer of Cedars Hall during AI Conf., being organised by Simon Balderson, top; speakers will include Professor Rose Luckin, above One use of AI in schools will be personalised learning with lessons tailored to each pupils’ ability. “Adaptive systems will revolutionise the way we all learn. Some pupils will have a teacher they love but not everybody is so lucky. This will level the playing field,
Tel: 01749 672033
providing exactly the right level of challenge and support for any given pupil. Everybody will have the same chance,” said Simon. The Cathedral School has already been thinking about ways to incorporate technology into school life. “We’re playing around with ideas. For example, could
we take the register by facial recognition?” said Simon, who points out that CCTV can already track him as he walks from one side of the school to the other, and be used to pinpoint the whereabouts of everybody on the school site. “It’s exciting and scary at the same time,” he said. Addressing fears that robots are going to put a lot of humans out of work, Simon said: “The optimistic side is that more jobs will be created than destroyed. “I think it’s going to be really positive. We won’t be doing the more manual things but can be data scientists and use technology to solve the world’s problems. “The world has some big problems. I’m sure AI will be useful for solving those problems. We’re in the early stages of development so we don’t know what it can do yet.” AI Conf. will take place on May 18 and 19. More information about it, including how to buy tickets, is available at aiconf.org
16 BROAD STREET, WELLS, BA5 2DN
www.thebritanniainnwells.co.uk
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wellsvoice
March 2018
11
Wonderful Weddings
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Hundreds of visitors are expected at the Wedding Fair taking place at The Bishop’s Palace in Wells on Sunday, March 18, from 11am to 3pm. So what better time to celebrate some of those who work so hard to make the big day special for the soon-to-be-married and their families? Find a florist, or a venue, pick a photographer and get into tip-top shape with the help of those featured on the following pages.
From an initial enquiry right through until the big day we go out of our way to make the process of designing and choosing your wedding flowers as enjoyable as possible. For more information, email clare@larkspurandlilac.co.uk or call 01749 678339 or 07932 073751. Continued on page 12
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March 2018
Wonderful Weddings From page 11 SLIMMING WORLD A WEDDING can often be a great opportunity to get in shape. Every bride and groom across the country wants to look and feel fantastic on the day. For one Wells man, giving his daughter away on her wedding day was the incentive he needed to lose the weight that had been holding him back for years. Keith Wilson, aged 60, has lost four and a half stone in just 10 months at Slimming World and has decided that 2018 is going to be a big year in more ways than one. Keith, a Key Worker from Wells, had noticed his weight creeping on over the last 10 years, and during that time he found he lost a lot of confidence. He said: “I was suffering from back ache daily, my blood pressure was high, I generally felt awful.” When his daughter announced she would be getting
Keith Wilson before and after losing weight
ired be inspwith Slimming World
married in 2018, Keith decided he didn’t want his waistline to spoil how he felt on her big day. He said: “I had tried dieting and it hadn’t worked, when I joined the local Slimming World group, I wasn’t sure this would work either. Thankfully, I was proved wrong. It isn’t a diet, it’s a healthy lifestyle.” Keith was surprised to learn that he could enjoy his favourite foods like a full English breakfast and fish and chips – made the Slimming World way – and that he could also still enjoy eating out. “It isn’t just about food and drink,” Keith continued. “The advice from my consultant Sarah and from the rest of the group has been brilliant.” The group support has clearly inspired Keith as he has been offered the chance to run his very own Slimming World group in Wells so he can help and support other people who want to get healthy in 2018. Keith said: “I’ve now lost four and half stone and am fitter than
jonathan pearce
I have been in years. My blood pressure is normal and I can look forward to proudly giving my daughter away. “It’s going to be an exciting year and I can’t wait to help other people reach their own personal target weight with Slimming World.” Find out more about your local group at www. slimmingworld.co.uk or contact Keith on 07467 504520. Keith’s group runs every Monday at 5.30pm and 7.30pm at Wells Methodist Church in Southover. JONATHAN PEARCE FINDING a wedding photographer is just one piece of the jigsaw as far as planning and preparing for your big day is concerned. That is why experiencing a wedding fair like the Love Actually event at The Bishop’s Palace on Sunday, March 18, can be such a good first step.
WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY
Find me at the LoveActually Wedding Fayre Bishops Palace, Sunday 18th March
*NEW CONSULTANT* MONDAY Wells Methodist Church Southover Wells 5.30pm & 7.30pm Tel: Keith 07467 504520 Come and join our friendly group
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To advertise, contact Andy on 01749 675157
jonathanpearcephotography.co.uk 07852688592 jonathanpearcephotography@hotmail.co.uk
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wellsvoice
March 2018
13
Wonderful Weddings
A wedding image by photographer Jonathan Pearce
I trained for four years in graphic design and photography back in the early 1980s in Bristol and during that time gained my Licentiateship membership of The Royal Photographic Society – the most prestigious organisation of its kind in the world. Twenty years of work in advertising agencies and publication houses gave me the experience I needed to set up on my own. ‘Natural & Stylish’ is how the strapline on my leaflet goes and hopefully that describes my approach to wedding photography – creating a set of images that perfectly evoke the emotions of the day and will always look beautiful. I would be delighted to meet you, show you my work and chat about any requirements you may have at the wedding fair on Sunday, March 18. Or contact me by emailing jonathanpearcephotography@ hotmail.co.uk or calling 07852 688592.
Beautiful wedding flowers from Lynnsey Kelly LYNNSEY KELLY FLOWERS ARRANGING wedding flowers is one of the most enjoyable parts of being a florist. I offer a bespoke wedding service, from the first meeting with a bride or couple, to discover their individual ideas, to bringing that vision to life, using the most wonderful flowers and foliages sourced
from our suppliers and local growers. From the simplest bridal bouquet to the largest venue, it is a privilege and pleasure to be chosen to play such an important part on what will be one of the most personal, intimate days of a couple’s life. I aim to make the whole Continued on page 14
Lynnsey Kelly Flowers Visit my luxury flower shop in the heart of Wells for an ever-changing selection of fresh beautiful flowers. We cover all aspects of floristry, from weddings and deliveries to funerals and weekly contracts. 2 Priest Row, Wells Somerset BA5 2PY 01749 675440 lynnsey@lynnseykelly.co.uk
LYNNSEY KELLY The Voice Advert (half page - 180x120mm).indd Got News? Call 07906 499655
1
14/08/2017 15:02 Email: news@wellsvoice.co.uk
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March 2018
Wonderful Weddings From page 13 experience of choosing flowers and arrangements special and fun. I like to design something different for each wedding, so no two weddings are the same. I started my floristry business in Wells in 2001 with a twice weekly flower stall at Wells Market. In that time I became well known and really built my reputation as a florist. In 2013 I took over a long standing flower shop on Priest Row, overlooking St Cuthbert’s Church. With help from my very patient husband, we transformed the shop to reflect my style and it is now an oasis of calm. Please come in to find out how I can help make your wedding even more special, or provide flowers for other occasions such as Mother’s Day. You can also contact me on 01749 675440 or email lynnsey@ lynnseykelly.co.uk.
A wedding in the romantic setting of The Bishop’s Palace THE BISHOP’S PALACE THERE are few more stunning wedding venues in Somerset than The Bishop’s Palace & Gardens and it has played host to lavish hospitality for over 800 years. For wedding couples, after arriving over the splendid Moat
and Drawbridge, the venue offers use of a medieval vaulted undercroft, the Palace Long Gallery, outdoor terrace and 14 acres of stunning gardens to stroll across in the evening, perfect as a breathtaking backdrop to those all-important photographs to mark your special day.
The award-winning in-house catering team offer a huge range of food options to suit every palate and budget and a tasting can be arranged with the chef after a wedding date has been booked. The wedding team at the Palace has over 30 years’ experience in the wedding industry between them, and help can be offered with every aspect of planning and anticipating your every need. For any couples interested in finding out more, a viewing can be booked where a member of the wedding team will walk you through the spaces (with a glass of bubbly!) and explain all the possibilities for your special day. Prices start from only £2,500 and there are packages available. Some new dates have just been released for Summer 2018. Call us on 01749 988111 or see more about The Bishop’s Palace at bishopspalace.org.uk
Be King & Queen of your own Palace for the day!
From the moment you cross the drawbridge, you’ll know that this unique venue will wow your guests and make you feel like the most special couple in the world. Imagine sipping drinks in a medieval entrance hall or on the garden terrace, dining and dancing in a 13th century vaulted Undercroft, enjoying coffee and cake in the historic Long Gallery and having your photos taken in 14 acres of stunning gardens including a waterfall, a moat and resident swans!
Now imagine inviting your guests to a Palace for your reception. Sounds good doesn’t it?
Prices start from £2,500 - some summer 2018 dates still available! Call us today to find out more and book a viewing:
01749 988111
www.bishopspalace.org.uk The Bishop’s Palace, Wells, Somerset BA5 2PD
To advertise, contact Andy on 01749 675157
Email: sales@wellsvoice.co.ukoice.co.uk
wellsvoice
March 2018
15
n NEWS
Wellbeing event visitors leave happy MORE than 300 people attended the Health & Mind Matters event that took place in Wells Town Hall in February. Thirty stallholders offered advice and suggestions on ways to increase wellbeing, including how to be more active and eat more healthily. Most stallholders reported
running out of leaflets and other promotional material, and several, such as Slimming World and Parkrun, signed up new members. The event was organised by Wells Jobcentre to bring together organisations that can offer support to people coping with issues brought on by being out of
Visitors on a tour of Wells Cathedral’s chained library
Tours behind closed doors WELLS Cathedral is providing the opportunity to take a peek into one of the few chained libraries in Britain with its Chained Library tours, or to learn the stories behind the architecture of England’s first entirely gothic cathedral with the popular Doorway into Gothic Architecture tours. A number of dates are available throughout the year and can be booked online at the Cathedral’s website (www. wellscathedral.org.uk/visit). Each tour lasts 90 minutes and costs £10 per person.
work, such as isolation and low self-esteem. Feedback collected from the attendees was said to be extremely positive, most stating that they took something constructive away from the day, and that they would be interested in attending another event. Organisers thanked all of
the stallholders for making the day such a success, as well as Waitrose and Burns the Bread, who donated towards the refreshments, and local businesses who donated the 20 prizes on offer for the free prize draw. They hope that it could inspire more such events across the Mendip area.
Aged 40-74? Find out about our FREE NHS Health Check Even though you might be feeling great, if you’re over forty you may be at risk of heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, diabetes or dementia. A FREE NHS Health Check can help you reduce these risks and make sure that you stay healthy.
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A kingfisher spotted perching on the bell that the swans ring at The Bishop’s Palace Picture: Nick James
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ToHealth
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Email: news@wellsvoice.co.uk
wellsvoice
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March 2018
n ON THE BEAT
Type of calls now very different
£1 a month on bills for policing
WHILE we are lucky enough to live and work in such a beautiful and largely safe environment, the demand on our service still remains a challenge. The type of calls that we receive today are very different to those that I serviced as a young police constable when I first joined 26 years ago. We still naturally deal with issues relating to crime, but much of that crime has changed of course, and we now deal with many offences relating to social media and internet crime which can be lengthy enquiries. We also find ourselves dealing with more and more cases related to mental health and protecting vulnerable people from harm. We have 28 PCSOs across Mendip who are all extremely dedicated and motivated to making Mendip a safer place in which to live. These officers have recently set up problem-solving plans in order to try and address
RESIDENTS will pay an additional £1 a month on the policing part of the council tax in Avon and Somerset to protect neighbourhood policing, according to the area’s Police and Crime Commissioner Sue Mountstevens. The decision was supported at a meeting of the Police and Crime Panel who scrutinise Ms Mountstevens and have the power to veto the policing precept decision. Local councillors and independent people on the panel backed her decision to increase the police precept by £12 per year (for an average band D property). Ms Mountstevens said: “I recognise that any increase in household bills will be felt by residents. I want to assure local communities that the policing you receive on a local level through your neighbourhood policing teams will be unchanged thanks to the increase.”
News from the local policing team with Inspector Mark Nicholson a particular issue on their beat. They each have a plan for dealing with a vulnerable person, a vulnerable area (to crime) and a persistent caller who would call the police unnecessarily. These plans are vital in order to reduce
Police urge caution after caller cons woman out of £45,000
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our demand and will enable us to be where we are most needed and be there quickly. Many of these plans also involve some our key partners. As different agencies we all have different powers and policies, and sometimes a blend of these will help to resolve an issue. One PCSO, for example, is dealing with lady who is a persistent caller. Each time the lady rings there is quite a substantial cost to the organisation in terms of money and time. Of course we want to help people, but this lady makes allegations about her neighbour that simply are not true. The PCSO therefore has been working with numerous agencies connected to the lady already ensuring that she is getting the right support, and now contacts her instead of waiting for her to call us. Those actions alone have reduced the number of calls dramatically.
Please feel free to call us during office hours on 0800 019 4557 or email us at info@elm-online. co.uk
Standard single or pair of mirrored Wills £99 To advertise, contact Andy on 01749 675157
A WOMAN from Wells has been duped out of £45,000 after a phone call from someone who claimed to be from her bank. Police are now warning others to be on their guard following the hoax. The caller told the 74-year-old that her bank account had been compromised and they needed to transfer her savings to a “safe account”. They were, he claimed, carrying out investigations into employees at her bank who were under suspicion of criminal activity. The woman was asked to make up a password to use when the caller contacted her, provided with details of a new account number and asked to make up a cover story in case she was quizzed by staff at her bank when she transferred the money. She went into the bank on February 2 and made the transfer and was called to confirm the money had been transferred into the new “safe” account. Further similar transfers were made on February 3 and 5. “When her son phoned her and she explained what
had happened he immediately spotted it was a scam and contacted us,” said a spokesman for Avon and Somerset police. “We are currently investigating the incident and working with the woman’s bank. “It is possible that other people in the Avon and Somerset force area may have been victims of a similar scam and lost money. We would like to hear from them and would urge them to contact us, quoting 5218027707.” Police advice is: n Never give your PiN number to anyone over the phone – whether they claim to be a police officer or from your bank. This information will never be requested over the phone. n Always check with your bank that they have called especially if you are asked to set up a new account over the phone. n If there is mention of criminal activity call the police. n Use a different phone to check the validity of the call. n If in any doubt put down the phone and speak to your neighbour/call your bank/call the police.
Email: sales@wellsvoice.co.ukoice.co.uk
wellsvoice
March 2018
17
n NEWS
Pizza restaurant up for award
Support for big clean-up effort
DA Luciano’s, Wells’ traditional pizza restaurant, has been nominated for the prestigious BBC Food & Farming Awards which celebrate great value freshly made food using quality ingredients. Da Luciano’s has specifically been nominated for its highlyrated takeaway service. Winners and runners-up in the national contest will be announced later this year. “It’s great to have been nominated, thank you, and thank you to all our loyal customers over the years that have continued to support us,” said Luciano Raso, who runs Da Luciano’s. Luciano is confident his customers will stay loyal when a Dominos pizza outlet opens later this year near Wells bus station. “We’re different to the mainstream. If you want a really good pizza you need to come to a place like this,” he said.
OFFERS of help have been coming in to help clear up rubbish in Wells in March. Deputy mayor Celia Wride is organising local litter pickers as part of the UK’s Great British Spring Clean event from March 2-4. “People can volunteer to do as little or as much as they want – even just checking their front pavement for the odd bit of rubbish would be great,” said Celia. “Those who would like to do a bit more can collect highvisibility jackets and litter ‘picker uppers’ from me. I will also have a supply of bags for them to use.” Schools, community groups and fellow councillors are all joining the clear-up campaign. Locations have been identified where filled bags can be left for collection on Monday, March 5. More details from Celia by emailing c.wride@wells.gov.uk.
Luciano Raso in the kitchen at Da Luciano’s The restaurant, which has entertained the late television personality Sir Terry Wogan, was also endorsed last year by Poldark star Aidan Turner when the BBC series was being filmed in Wells. It has been a feature of the city since Luciano opened the restaurant almost 30 years ago under the expert guidance of his mother Celestina. The family are originally from
Calabria in the remote southern toe of Italy. Like many Italian families in Somerset, their forebears fell in love with the region after originally being dispatched to the area’s prisoner of war camps. After the Second World War ended many stayed to introduce the locals to the exotic delights of pasta, pizza and Italian ice cream.
Bible Prophecy and The Gospel Message Are you aware that: Children at St Cuthbert’s Academy Infants and Preschool had fun that was out of this world. As part of their space day the children dressed up in all manner of cosmic outfits. They also had the chance to take part in virtual reality workshops. Using the headset the children and teachers were transported into space to travel the solar system. The children are studying space as this term’s topic so it certainly brought it to life.
Supervised by Physiotherapists our quiet, personal gym facility is designed to help you achieve your personal goals whatever your healthcare needs Two free supervised fitness sessions for anyone booking a 1:1 Initial Wellness Appointment Mendip Court, Upper Breach, South Horrington, Wells BA5 3DG 01749 675568 admin@centralsomersetphysio.co.uk
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JESUS CHRIST has PROMISED to RETURN to the EARTH International events fulfilling Bible Prophecy proclaim his coming is near
What are you doing to prepare for that day? Send for further information to: The Secretary, Apostolic Fellowship of Christ Bethgur, 52a Dartford Road, Dartford, Kent DA1 3ER Email: news@wellsvoice.co.uk
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March 2018
Heads Up, Upper Breach, South Horrington. Tel: 01749 670667
Two workplace health sessions MENTAL health charity Heads Up is organising a one-day course to encourage employers to think about how they can support staff and avoid long-term costs to their organisation. There will be two opportunities to attend the Better Health in the Workplace course, on March 13 or April 19. The sessions will take place at the Heads Up base at Upper Breach, South Horrington, from 9.30am-4pm. The cost is £55 per person and more details and a booking form are available on the charity’s website, headsupsomerset.org. An independent review estimates the financial cost to employers of mental ill health in the UK workplace is between £33 and £42 billion a year. While the human cost is more difficult to measure, the impact is
The steering group with charity staff in front of the old store at Heads Up which will become the Men’s Shed huge not only on the individual but on the lives of those around them. The course will provide an overview of mental health awareness within the workplace and include discussion on: n The different types of mental health conditions. n The impact of stigma and discrimination. n And what you can do as employers, managers and
colleagues to support and improve the workplace for employees experiencing mental ill health. The course will be run by Colin Nash, an approved mental health practitioner and CIPD certified trainer with 22 years’ experience working in the statutory mental health sector as well as training and staff development. Meanwhile, the Men’s Shed
Heads Up is creating on the site is nearing completion and could open in March. Men’s Sheds combat the negative impact of loneliness and isolation on a person’s health and wellbeing. They are similar to garden sheds – a place to pursue practical interests at leisure, to practise skills and enjoy making and mending – while sharing skills and knowledge and building friendships.
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ST Margaret’s Hospice is to benefit from a charity partnership with West Country Windows. The family double-glazing business will donate £11,000 to help fund a variety of initiatives throughout the year. Directors Ken Ashplant and Tim Earle chose St Margaret’s after a presentation from the charity which revealed that it costs £12 million a year to run the service, which supports one in three people in Somerset during their lifetime. “We are delighted to be able
to support St Margaret’s. All of us, at some point in our lives, will know someone with a lifelimiting illness, whether they be friends or loved ones, all will need care and support. The skill, dedication and compassion of St Margaret’s staff is a shining example of this,” said Tim. Sadie Ellison, corporate partnerships manager at St Margaret’s Hospice, said: “We’re delighted to welcome West Country Windows on board as a valued corporate partner. This sponsorship will make a real difference.”
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wellsvoice
March 2018
19
n NEWS
Young percussionist into category finals of BBC competition MEADOW Brooks, a talented percussionist studying at Wells Cathedral School, has made it through to the category finals of the prestigious BBC Young Musician 2018 competition. Meadow is one of five percussionists from across the
Percussionist Meadow Brooks UK to have been selected for the finals, which will be broadcast on BBC4 on March 17. The grand final will take place on May 13 when three musicians will perform a full concerto with a professional orchestra. Meadow, who is 17 and in
Year 12 at the Cathedral School, grew up on a farm with her five sisters, several of whom are also musicians; and in addition to her talent at percussion, enjoys composition and singing. She originally played with the National Children’s Orchestra and is now a percussionist with the National Youth Orchestra. Meadow led the school drum corps through the streets of Wells during the Remembrance Day parade. She was recently filmed for the BBC coverage in Cedars Hall, the school’s state of the art performing arts venue, as well as at the recent Brass and Percussion Promenade Concert at Wells Cathedral. Head of percussion and student experience, and Meadow’s specialist percussion teacher, Jayne Obradovic said: “We are delighted for Meadow, she works incredibly hard and is a terrific role model to younger students, including her two younger sisters who also study percussion in addition to their string studies at Wells.” One of the school’s pianists from last year’s Year 13 cohort, Adam Heron, has also made it through to the category finals, of the keyboards section.
A James Bond-themed charity event in Wells Town Hall will help raise funds for Heads Up and Wells Air Cadets. Mayor of Wells Councillor John North is hoping to raise £10,000 to split between the two charities during his term of office, and the Casino Royale Night on March 10 is the next big fundraiser. Special guest will be Dee Dee Wilde, a founding member of Pan’s People, who will be dancing to Bond theme tunes, and there will be live music from Dan Lealman as Trué Bublé. The evening also promises cocktails, casino tables, a fire dancer and a display of sports cars. Tickets cost £20, to include a glass of fizz, and are available from the Town Hall and the Swan Hotel. Pictured at the press launch for the event are, back row from left, organisers Sarah Sloan and Sean Sloan, Zoe Newton and Mark Tobin of the Swan Hotel; front row, Fran Fawcett of the Air Cadets, Mayor John North and Bridget Harvey of Heads Up.
Eighties party night fundraiser WELLS rounders team is holding an Eighties night to raise funds for the team and for mental health charity Mind. Organisers Sarah Loxton and Kelly Simpson say that if the event is a success, they will make it an annual event with a different theme each year. Fancy dress is obligatory and
n LETTERS Possible location for multi-storey car park FURTHER to Martin Cooke’s suggestion last month for a third level in the Whiting Way car park, I am including my suggestion to the Mendip District Council Local Plan Part 2: Wells 116M (mixed development). There is a groundswell in local publications for more parking, especially long-term parking, to be made available in Wells. Such parking needs to be within a practical or comfortable walking distance of the commercial, tourist and other
there will be a prize for the best costume. There will also be a raffle. The Ultimate Eighties Party takes place at Wells Football Club on Saturday, April 28, at 7.30pm. Tickets cost £4, available from Sarah (07814 821488) or Kelly (07808 881129).
Email news@wellsvoice.co.uk facilities in the central area of the city. Long-term parking might improve the opportunities for tourists not only to visit the many sites but also to include a meal within their visit, which is precluded by the three-hour limit in the central car parks. The Tincknells site being adjacent to the Strawberry Way and the roundabout could allow well-designed access for parking. Part of that site is already used for storage units and garaging. It might be possible to create a multi- (two or at the most three) - storey car park whilst continuing with lock-up units
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for storage or garaging at ground level. Andrew Bond By email
We are opposed to exclusive parking I READ, with interest, the article in the January edition of the Wells Voice regarding the parking situation in Wells. Being an owner of a long-established business in St Cuthbert’s Street, I would like to make it clear that we are opposed to allowing exclusive parking for residents,
as the road has always been a mix of residential and commercial properties. As we and other businesses in the street and vicinity have not been made privy to the details of the residents’ proposal it is impossible to comment further at this point, but it has not been a collaborative undertaking involving residents and all the businesses. We are awaiting the consultation period to hear the full details of the proposal from the parking services department of the council. Louise Brooker Axe Valley Vets
Email: news@wellsvoice.co.uk
20 ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE
wellsvoice n NEWS IN BRIEF
Happy to help families with our practical, professional service AT Wells Funeral Services we are in our second year of trading, and can now say to members of the community that the newest funeral service in the city has an award-winning funeral director, as awarded by Golden Leaves funeral plans for customer care. Our colleague Mr Rod Major is party to each and every one of our funerals, your care rests in the knowledge that we judge ourselves by our testimonials. For a truly competitive and first class service talk to Wells Funeral Services – you won’t be disappointed! We are happy to help families to deliver a credible, practical, professional and reliable service with our chapel of rest and free parking at our premises. We use a hearse or our private ambulance for the direct to crematorium service. We like to think of ourselves as the friendly face of funeral
Rod Major at his stall at Wells Market services, you will be safe in our hands. We are now able to offer a credit facility interest-free if repaid over 12 months, or with a modest interest rate of just 9.9% over 24 months or 14.9% over 36 months. We hope this will help families in their hour of need.
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Cathedral award WELLS Cathedral won a Silver award in the South West Tourism Excellence Awards. It shared the award in the Large Attraction category with Hestercombe Gardens Trust. The Gold went to Moors Valley Country Park and Forest. More than 120 awards were handed out at the ceremony in Torquay on February 1. Lindsay Mann, head of marketing and communications for Wells Cathedral, said: “We were absolutely thrilled to win Silver in the Large Attraction category and to do it in such good company. It follows our recent Gold win in the Bristol, Bath and Somerset Tourism Awards and reflects the firstclass welcome we provide to all of our visitors and supporters as well as the hard work of our staff and volunteers.”
Enforcement action ENFORCEMENT action has been taken against a Wells landlord for failing to provide a ‘safe and healthy’ home. A property containing two flats was inspected as part of a multi-agency visit and was found to have a number of defects, including absence of fire precautions, unchecked electrics, lack of fixed heating and broken windows. The fire authority served an emergency Prohibition Notice as it was considered to pose a serious danger to the occupants. Mendip District Council then served a further notice to require further safety works to be completed before the property can be reoccupied.
Help tell mills story IN conjunction with the National Heritage Open Day events due to be held across the country during September 2018, members of the newly formed Wells Mills Interest Group are hoping to provide a display in Wells Town Hall telling the story of the mills which once stood along the St Andrews stream running through the city. The group would love to hear from anyone who has any memorabilia, documents, photographs or stories relating to these mills which they would
To advertise, contact Andy on 01749 675157
March 2018 like to share. Please call Lou Bailey on 01749 674967 or email loubailey72@gmail.com
Chance to swap ANOTHER Recycle event is taking place in Wells on Sunday, March 4. Described as being like a car boot sale but without money changing hands, it is an opportunity to dispose of things that are no longer needed and find something for free. The event will take place at Priory Road car park, next to the Good Earth, from 10.30amnoon.
Theatre initiatives WELLS Theatre Festival, which launches this year, is to use The Bishop’s Barn as one of the core venues for the new festival. Another theatrical initiative will see The Jones Collective host a research and development period on a new theatre production, Frank, in the barn ready for its world premiere and tour in 2019. These will replace a workshop about Wells Cathedral and the events planned in the barn for the Wells Comedy Festival, which were originally announced as being among the winners of the Into the Barn scheme but have had to withdraw.
Items repaired DOZENS of people attended a second Repair Cafe held in St Thomas’ Church Hall on February 10. More than 30 items were taken along to be fixed including several radios, several lamps, bags, trousers, tables, a drill, Dysons, a sewing machine, a coffee machine, a projector, a lawn mower, a musical jug and a broom. Sustainable Wells, which organised the event, hopes to hold another Repair Cafe in May.
Phone number THE phone number for the Somerset Mental Wellbeing Service was incorrectly supplied by Somerset County Council in a report on the new service last month. The correct number is 01823 255917.
Email: sales@wellsvoice.co.uk
wellsvoice
March 2018
21
n NEWS
Play brings memories flooding back JESSE Briton, the director of a play that was performed at Wells Little Theatre in February, says it was a tough but rewarding experience. Tough because there are reminders of his amateur actor father Chris throughout the building. Rewarding because the play, Reclaimed, which tells the story of the serious flooding in Somerset in 2014, was so well received by the Wells audience, as it has been wherever it has been performed. “The response from audiences had been overwhelmingly positive. Not only for the subject matter, but also because we are a Somerset company telling a Somerset story to Somerset people,” said Jesse. “The importance of local stories told by local people can never be overstated and I’m very proud that this production has connected with people on that level.” Jesse grew up in Wells and went to Wells Blue School where he says his interest in theatre and performance was sparked by “two incredible teachers”,
Peter Wild and Simon Moody. His father was an equally big influence. “My dad, Chris, passed away about nine months ago. Many people remember him locally from his time as mayor and his involvement with the Little Theatre, and coming back with Reclaimed was quite tough. There are pictures of Chris throughout the building in productions that are burned into my memory,” said Jesse. “In fact, the first performance I ever saw was a production of The Ghost Train at Wells Little Theatre. I can still remember the sensation of awe that I had when watching it. I was genuinely terrified at points and seeing my dad in it made it all the more accessible for me. “Whilst he wasn’t a trained performer, I learnt a lot from my dad about performance in general. He taught me that nothing would be good, or watchable, unless you were enjoying yourself. I’m always reminded of this lesson when teaching and it’s remarkable how applicable it is to all sorts of
Jesse Briton gets his point across situations. Those who knew Chris will no doubt remember how religiously he applied this to his own life.” Having trained as an actor and theatre-maker at East 15 Acting School, Jesse now runs Wassail, the company that produced Reclaimed, with producer Nick White, one of three theatre companies that he has founded and continues to make work through. The others are Bear Trap and the Jones Collective. In Reclaimed, the cast of six act out the drama surrounded by the audience, all supposedly sheltering from the rising
floodwater in a village hall – which in the case of the Little Theatre was actually the rehearsal room. “We decided to stage Reclaimed in an ‘immersive’ style for two reasons,” said Jesse. “Firstly, it’s a great way of bringing the audience closer to the show. We knew this piece was about a community and we wanted the audience to feel as much a part of that as possible. Secondly, as a Somerset-based company we’re limited in the traditional theatre spaces that we can tour to. Rather than seeing that as an obstacle we saw it as an opportunity to turn everyday spaces into stages.” He says that the theatre company will be returning to Wells with future productions. “Wassail is committed to touring work all across Somerset and Wells is a vital part of that link,” he said. “We’ll definitely be back to the Little Theatre and other venues in Wells. Also, the audience in Wells is better than anywhere else in Somerset, but I guess I’m biased.”
Hotel suite the setting for four stories of love, loss and finances LONDON Suite by Neil Simon is Wells Little Theatre’s next production, taking place from Wednesday to Saturday, March 7 to 10, at 7.30pm. Following Neil Simon’s successful Plaza Suite and California Suite, London Suite takes the same format, featuring four playlets which all take
place in the same hotel suite in London. In Settling Accounts, Billy has managed the financial affairs for some years for his friend Brian, a successful writer, but all is not as it should be. Mother and daughter are spending their last night in London in Going Home, and the
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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daughter Lauren is desperate to encourage her mother to start dating again. In Diana and Sidney, Diana is a TV actress on a promotional tour, meeting up with her exhusband who now lives with a younger man on a Greek island. The final playlet is The Man on the Floor, a comical farce
based around Mark and Annie’s lost Wimbledon tickets. Tickets are £10, concession £8, available from www. wellslittletheatre.com or in person from the theatre on Tuesdays and Saturdays from noon to 1.30pm or Wednesdays from 7pm to 8.30pm, or by calling 01749 672280.
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Email: news@wellsvoice.co.uk
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22
n THE PROPERTY MARKET
March 2018
With Roderick Thomas of Roderick Thomas Ltd
The season for renovation
WHILE January and February seem to have been more than usually wet and very grey the property market has been surprisingly bright and cheerful. There has been a real shortage of property available across all ranges and many houses have sold as soon as they
have come onto the market. However, the miserable winter weather does not encourage buyers when houses need work. We are currently marketing a number which are in this category and I expect them to sell as we get into spring. p Church Farm in Wookey is a medieval farmhouse. It’s close to the church as you would imagine and is liveable as it stands but would benefit from some tlc. At £575,000 it is getting attention.
RODERICK THOMAS Estate Agents & Chartered Surveyors
p The Elms in West Pennard is a Victorian house on the village outskirts. It’s big, 5,600 sq ft, has enormous charm and retains its main reception rooms and period features. It needs repair, a new kitchen and other work but at £800,000 should be a great investment.
p Hollowmarsh Cottage on the Mendips is another which is liveable but by virtue of its wonderfully secluded position is likely to be considerably changed. It’s in an acre and a half, in a beautiful rural setting and has no neighbours. It’s available at £685,000.
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
p Finally there’s one most have now missed. Orchard House is a lovely farmhouse in half an acre in the little known hamlet of Parbrook between Glastonbury and Castle Cary. This was snatched up immediately at £650,000 and is now in the hands of the conveyancers. Hopefully the others will be following shortly.
Email: sales@wellsvoice.co.uk
wellsvoice
March 2018
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n PROPERTY Special event will showcase city’s new development for over 60s HOMEBUYERS seeking modern retirement living are being invited to a special event to showcase the plans for Churchill Retirement Living’s new development, St Athelm Lodge, on West Street in Wells. The event is taking place at 11.30am and 2.30pm on Wednesday, March 7, at the Swan Hotel, Sadler Street. Visitors will be able to view the plans for the 30 spacious one and two bedroom privately owned retirement apartments and shared facilities, designed exclusively for the over 60s. Short presentations from Churchill Retirement Living will be followed by light refreshments and the chance to talk with the team about the new apartments. Jo Ridehalgh, regional marketing executive for Churchill Retirement Living, said: “We are thrilled to be launching a new Lodge in Wells. St Athelm Lodge has already
sparked a great deal of interest and we’ve had lots of enquiries from local over 60s keen to find out more about the benefits of retirement living.” Anyone wanting to attend the event on March 7 can confirm their attendance by contacting Carol Aston on 01425 462158. When complete, the apartments will have fully fitted kitchens with a built in fridge and freezer, hob and an oven, located at an easy-reach height. All of the properties will have easy-turn lever taps in both the kitchen and bathroom and illuminated light switches for added convenience. There will be a fitted camera entry system for the highest level of security and a 24-hour emergency call system. Family or friends will be able to stay in the development’s Guest Suite, and there will be an Owners’ Lounge for socialising. A Lodge Manager will oversee the running of the development.
Mollie and Matt Crouch in their new home at Vicarage Fields
Couple helped to buy first home NEWLYWEDS Mollie and Matt Crouch have used the Help to Buy scheme to purchase their first home together. Having rented in Bath for several years, the couple have now bought a home at Crest Nicholson’s Vicarage Fields site in Wells. “We’d been renting together for a while, and saving up for something that we really loved,” said Matt. “Help to Buy meant that we could make our savings go that bit further, and buy a
home for now and the future.” Mollie added: “We loved living in Bath, but it was so busy – we were looking for something a little quieter. Wells is both picturesque and peaceful, and homes here are more affordable.” With Matt working from home, the downstairs office was also a big selling-point and gives him the space he needs. Homes at Vicarage Fields are available from £270,000, or £216,000 using the Help to Buy scheme. More on 01749 600864.
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wellsvoice
March 2018
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n NEWS
Variety of Easter activities on offer THE Bishop’s Palace is lining up a fortnight of family activities during the Easter holidays. The fun begins on Saturday, March 24, when the Easter Egg Trail begins. Children can follow the clues to find coloured eggs around the gardens, and when they have found them all, they can return to claim their chocolate prize from the shop. On Monday, March 26, and Monday, April 2, (10.30am-3pm), there will be Make-it Monday sessions in the Undercroft of the Palace. Families can take part in an array of crafting activities including Easter-themed cardmaking, daffodil windmills, baby animal-themed masks and puppets and making use of spring flowers. On Friday, March 30, and Friday, April 6, (11am-3pm), the garden team will be holding Nature Ninjas sessions in the Community Garden, aimed at
getting little ones engaged with nature and gardening. The team will have lots of horticulturallybased fun activities for all ages. Fans of falconry will love the Palace’s Medieval Falconry Day on Saturday, April 7, from 10am-4pm, when The Raptor Foundation will return to the South Lawn for a day of flying displays, entertaining information and beautiful birds. In between displays, visitors can have the chance to handle some of the birds. All activities are included in standard admission.
Creative workshops WELLS Cathedral is offering free creative workshops to keep the family entertained over the Easter holidays. On Wednesday, March 28, little ones can create their own Easter Gardens or a piece of
be available to give mini-tours discovering how Easter is marked around the Cathedral. Two workshop sessions are offered at 10.30am-noon or 2pm-3.30pm. All materials are provided and staff will be on hand in the Education Room to offer help and advice. Workshops are free but donations to help cover cost of materials will be gratefully received. No need to book.
Easter services Craft activities at The Bishop’s Palace, top, and a previous Easter workshop at Wells Cathedral, above artwork on an Easter theme, using materials found in the garden. Cathedral Guides will also
DETAILS of all services and events taking place at Wells Cathedral during Holy Week and Easter can be found on the Cathedral’s website at www. wellscathedral.org.uk, including the world premiere of Philip Moore’s St Luke Passion with Wells Cathedral Choir at Choral Evensong for Palm Sunday (3pm). All will be welcome.
TOURS of WELLS CATHEDRAL • •
•
Daily free guided tours: Monday - Saturday, general tours of the Cathedral. No need to book! Saturday & Wednesday mornings (Apr-Oct) free 20 minute themed weekly ‘walks’. From 11.10am, a different theme available each month. No need to book! Fixed date tours. Choose from the Cathedral’s unique Chained Library or Gothic Architecture. 1.5 hours. Booking required. £10 per person
More details and booking information for all events and services taking place in the Cathedral are available on our website. Donations are welcome on entry.
T: 01749 674483 W: www.wellscathedral.org.uk
Got News? Call 07906 499655
Email: news@wellsvoice.co.uk
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March 2018
n WHAT’S ON March 3 n Vintage Somerset Fair, Town Hall, Market Place, Wells. Vintage clothes, vinyl, gifts, accessories, jewellery, toys, books, collectables, kitchenalia and more. Entry £1, students 50p, under 16s free. n Tom Bree will give a talk with slides on the geometric and cosmological design of Wells Cathedral in the Cathedral nave, 7pm, followed by a Q&A. Tickets £5 from the Cathedral box office or on the door. n Jumble sale, Coxley Memorial Hall, 10.30am-12.30pm, raising funds for World Challenge Expedition. If you have jumble to donate please contact Jo on 07742021635 who can collect if necessary. March 5 n Soup and bread lunch in aid of Christian Aid, Seager Hall, Union Street, noon-1.30pm. Suggested donation of £3.50 for lunch. March 7 n Wells Board Game Group, Cheese Yard Cafe, West Horrington, 7pm-9.30pm. March 9 n Spangles Duo with music from the Forties to the Seventies, The City Arms, High Street, 9pm-11pm. March 10 n International Women’s Day celebration featuring The Blue Stocking Society and the Chaps Cafe, Kennion Hall, Blue School, 7.45pm. Doors open 7pm. Tickets £7 (£5 concessions) from Kim, 01749 689037; Sarah, 07525 347256; or email wowiwd18@ gmail.com n Walk in and around Wells starting at Morrisons, East Somerset Way, Wells, 11am for 11.15am start with Jo, using footpaths, lanes and tracks. There are some inclines, possibly stiles (weather permitting). It may be muddy or slippery if wet. Lasts 6090 minutes. March 11 n Rare Plant Fair, The Bishop’s Palace, 10am-4pm, £6 to include entrance to the Palace and Gardens. n Mother’s Day Carvery in the Wells Golf Club restaurant. Traditional Sunday lunch served with all the trimmings. Booking essential: 01749 675005, option 3. March 12 n History of Art: The Bigger Picture with Joanna Cobb, MA: ‘Thomas Gainsborough and the Royal
Academy. In and out of harness’. Dinder Village Hall, 7.30pm9.30pm. £8 per person or £15 for two to include information sheets and refreshments. More details on 01458 832178 or ericjoanna@ waitrose.com n Soup and bread lunch in aid of Christian Aid, Seager Hall, Union Street, noon-1.30pm. Suggested donation of £3.50 for lunch. March 14 n Walk in and around Wells starting at Pickwicks Cafe, 25/27 Broad Street, 11am with Ruth, using paths, tracks, possibly fields and stiles if suitable. Can be muddy/ slippery if wet. Lasts 60-90 minutes. March 15 n Wells Floral Art Club: demonstrator and florist Jayne Morriss will present Strolling Through Gardens, 2.15pm, St Thomas’ Church, Wells. New members and visitors are welcome. March 16 n Singer-songwriter Greg Hancock, The City Arms, High Street. March 17 n Gorgons Carnival Club monthly 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. n Coffee and cake morning at the Lawrence Centre, Chamberlain Street, Wells, everyone welcome. Why not drop in for a coffee, a cake and a chat, anytime between 10.30am and noon? Organised by the Wells Labour Party. n Wine & Cheese Tasting with Perold Wine Cellar and the
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Somerset Cheese Company, Chewton Mendip Village Hall, 7pm, raising funds for Chewton Mendip Primary School. Tickets £10 per person (over 18 only), contact chewtonpta@hotmail.com for details/reservations. n The Messier Marathon 2018 public stargazing event and talk at Charterhouse Outdoor Activity Centre organised by Wells & Mendip Astronomers and Bath Astronomers, 6pm-11.30pm. It is advisable to confirm that the event is going ahead before travelling. n Mendip Men’s Walk for St Margaret’s Hospice from Cathedral Green to Tor Rugby Club, 10.30am. Email events@candlelightcare.co.uk March 19 n Soup and bread lunch in aid of Christian Aid, Seager Hall, Union Street, noon-1.30pm. Suggested donation of £3.50 for lunch. March 21 n Wells Board Game Group, Cheese Yard Cafe, West Horrington, 7pm9.30pm. March 24 n Guitarist and vocalist Ross Kirk, The Globe Inn, Priest Row, 8pm. n Tom Elliot, comedian and magician, Connect Centre, Wells, 7.30pm. Tickets from the centre or connect-centre.org.uk/tom-elliot n Helen Ottaway and Melanie Thompson will use film, sound installation, demonstration and talks to describe the creation of original site-specific work in response to Sri Lanka and Denmark, The Bishop’s Barn, Wells 7.30pm. Doors open 7.15pm. Tickets £5 on the door. Part of the Into the Barn project. March 27 n Somerset Wildlife Trust talk by Hugh Graham on the River Otter Beaver Trial and Devon Beaver Trial, Wells & District Museum. Doors open at 7pm for a 7.30pm start. Admission £2.50 for Somerset Wildlife Trust members, £3 for nonmembers. March 28 n Walk in and around Wells starting at Pickwicks Cafe, 25/27 Broad Street, 11am with Ruth, using paths, tracks, possibly fields and stiles if suitable. Can be muddy/ slippery if wet. Lasts 60-90 minutes. March 31 n Storytelling and creative writing for children aged 8-11 with author and storyteller Beth Webb, Wells Library, 10am-12.30pm. £1 for creative writing workshop.
REGULAR EVENTS n WEDNESDAYS: Wells Kettlercise, Town Hall, Market Place BA5 2RB, 6.15pm. £5. First class free. Pre-booking essential. Equipment reserved on booking. Contact Sally Ann Frampton, zest2zen@gmail. com, 07946,310877. Facebook @kettlercisesomerset. The proven single most effective Kettle bell fat burning workout. Strengthen, tone and get in shape for summer now. Every Monday n PilogaFit spine and core stability exercise class, Connect Centre, Wells, 5.30pm-6.30pm. Drop in, pay as you go, £5. 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 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 Smashup badminton for all abilities with music and your mates. Ages 11-18. Wells Blue Sports Centre, 7pm-8pm, £2.50 per session. n Zumba Gold. Lower impact, easier steps, Wells Leisure Centre. 10.45am-11.10am, £5 a session. Tel Jacqui 07870 544551 or just turn up. n Latin-based cardio dance exercise, Wells Cathedral School dance studio, 6.45pm-7.45pm. Tel Jacqui 07870 544551 or just turn up. n Drop-in life drawing with Molly and Paul of Wells Art Practice, 7pm9pm, Connect Centre, Portway, Wells. Beginners, intermediate and seasoned artists welcome. £15 per class or £12 per class if you book three. Call Molly Briton 07793 387848 or Paul Crummay 07918 731137 to book. 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
Email: sales@wellsvoice.co.uk
wellsvoice
March 2018
27
n WHAT’S ON Primary School hall, no auditions, singing for fun. Any queries, contact Polly at wookey. choirworks@gmail.com Every Wednesday n Wells Table Tennis Club, Seager Hall, Union Street, Wells, 6.30pm9pm. 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 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. Equipment reserved on booking. Contact Sally Ann Frampton, zest2zen@gmail.com, 07946310877. 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 PilogaFit spine and core stability
exercise class, Connect Centre, Wells, 9.30am-10.30am. 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. 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 adult member. facebook.com/ groups/1395072510738529/ Every Friday 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 for both classes. Pre-booking essential. Equipment reserved on booking. Contact Sally Ann Frampton, zest2zen@gmail.com, 07946310877. 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.
DISABLED ACCESS IN ALL 3 SCREENS
Every Saturday 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. First Sunday of each month n Irish Set Dancing at Dinder Village Hall, BA5 3PF. Workshop 11am-1pm, £3; Ceili 2pm-5pm, £3; bring and share lunch 1pm2pm. For more details, call 01458 210051. 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) Mondays n Open mic night, The Full Moon, Southover, 8pm. n Email brief details of events to news@wellsvoice.co.uk
OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK
Musical tribute to Bernstein THE centenary of the birth of Leonard Bernstein, composer and conductor, will be celebrated with a concert in March at Wells Cathedral, when the Cathedral’s Oratorio Society will perform the full orchestral version of Bernstein’s Chichester Psalms, with orchestra, solo quartet, boy treble, trumpets, trombone, timpani, percussion and strings. The conductor is Matthew Owens. Two works by Aaron Copland are also in the evening’s programme: Fanfare for the Common Man and Appalachian Spring, performed by Southern Sinfonia orchestra. Completing the American theme is Samuel Barber’s Adagio for Strings. The Oratorio Society will also sing the Gloria by Sir John Rutter, Patron of the Society. The concert takes place on Saturday, March 24, at 7pm. Tickets are available online at wcos.org.uk.
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20/02/2018 15:55:07 Email: news@wellsvoice.co.uk
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March 2018
n AROUND THE SOCIETIES WELLS CATHEDRAL CITY MINIATURIST CLUB WELLS Cathedral City Miniaturist Club is small, but national magazine Dolls House and Miniature Scene is featuring us in the March edition. It follows on from our involvement in the St Cuthbert’s Church Nativity Festival which was held in December. Our members helped to set up and steward the festival but in addition we entered our own display which depicted Christmas Nativities and Activities. It was this that interested the magazine. Our handmade shepherds, kings and cribs told the Christmas story but we also displayed scenes showing the ‘hustle and bustle’ of the season from Victorian to modern times. Cooking, decorating, shopping, toy making, bell ringing and pantomimes could be seen. Those who have to work at Christmas time were not forgotten and could be seen in a doctors’ surgery. A rather harassed vicar relaxing with a cup of tea amused the visitors, as did Wallace and Gromit sorting out their Christmas lights. We enjoyed taking part in this wonderful festival but our 12 club members did not expect to achieve fame! Jill Deane WELLS CIVIC SOCIETY THIS month Steve Jackson, former headteacher at Wells Blue School who was at the heart of secondary education in the city for over a decade, will talk about
Above, part of the display by Wells Cathedral City Miniaturist Club at the St Cuthbert’s Church Nativity Festival; and below, from left, Sally Dempsey of Heads Up is handed a cheque by the Rev Rowena Francis of Wells United Church and Non Hobson, chairman of Wells Floral Art Club his experiences in teaching and leading those who are our future. The meeting will be at Wells & Mendip Museum on March 14 at 7.30pm. Members and non-members are very welcome. WELLS & DISTRICT GARDENING CLUB DERRY Watkins of Special Plants will be the next guest speaker at the Wells Gardening Club’s March meeting. Everything about Derry Watkins is special. She is a plantsperson extraordinary, her nursery in Cold Ashton near Bath specialising in unusual species and cultivars. These are often collected by her on plant hunting expeditions throughout the world but mostly in South America. She has exhibited with award winning success at the great horticultural shows and her garden developed over a couple
City of Wells Almshouses (CWA) – Trustee Opportunities The CWA is looking to widen the range of skills and experience within its Board and is now seeking applications to join the Charity as Trustees. We are particularly interested in hearing from individuals with experience at a strategic level in fundraising, marketing / media relations, legal or housing sectors. Our 32 Almshouse properties are centrally located in the City of Wells and our Charity traces its origins back to 1424. In recent years we have been undertaking the progressive modernisation of our properties. For more information about the role and how to apply please visit the news page of our website: www.wellsalmshouses.org.uk or contact Althea Howarth, CEO. Tel: 01749 675813 / 07455 678088; Email: ceo@wellsalmshouses.org.uk. The closing date for receipt of applications is Thursday 29 March 2018.
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of decades is quite spectacular. In a nutshell this will be a special evening and it will be a delight to welcome Derry back to Wells to entertain us with her comprehensive knowledge and enthusiasm. Not to be missed. The event will be held in Wells Town Hall at 7.30pm on Thursday, March 8. The title of her talk is ‘Unusual and Long-blooming Plants – how an American ended up running a nursery in Bath’. She will be bringing plants for sale. Members £1, visitors £3. All welcome. There will be a chance to book a place on the enticing spring and summer visits to Exbury Gardens, Floyd’s Climbers, Stavordale and Cole Manor. For more details, call 01749 679182. Philip Harwood WELLS WI DESPITE the wet weather there was a very good turnout at Wells WI’s February meeting when members enjoyed a talk from Judith Derbyshire, a local solicitor, on All Things Probate. Judith took us through the most important principles of making a will, inheritance and capital gains tax and probate and at the same
time dispelled several myths around inheritance issues. The meeting was the last opportunity for each member to choose one resolution from a shortlist of six she would most like to see go forward as a potential campaign led by the National Federation of WIs next year. Some important issues have been raised including female genital mutilation (FGM), modern slavery, mental health and positive body image. Plans were made for future events including the banner parade of Somerset WIs through Wells on April 28, as well as craft sessions later in February and local dog friendly walks which will start in April when we hope the weather will be better. A welcome cup of tea and an opportunity to chat rounded off the evening. We meet at 7.30pm on the first Tuesday of each month at Wells Museum. Our next meeting is on Tuesday, March 6, when we will have a practical demonstration of sugarcraft and members will have an opportunity to try out some of the skills being demonstrated. Ladies can come along as visitors initially, without obligation, and will be made very welcome. Or check out our Facebook page which has full details of our programme and activities. Find us on: email: wellssomersetwi@gmail.com; Facebook: @Wellssomersetwi; Twitter: @Wells_WI; Instagram: @Wellssomersetwi. Val Pettman WELLS FLORAL ART CLUB IN 2017 the club was invited to arrange a flower festival to celebrate a century of Wells United Church. In June the festival, Ten Decades of Blessings, opened in the church. Both the church and the club chose the mental health charity, Heads Up, as their charity for 2017 and fundraising continued throughout the year. On Sunday, January 21, 2018, a representative from Heads Up, Sally Dempsey, was invited to the church to receive a cheque for £4,127 from the Rev Rowena Francis, Minister of Wells United Church, and the chairman of Wells Floral Art Club, Non Hobson.
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wellsvoice
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n TAKE A BREAK A O E Z M N T A S F C R V Z J E P A K
G R Z L S B R O X I U A S P I N A C H
E Y L U E D I Z X T M D P G F T R G P
S O Y E C R E S S C B I G E C I S U M
K O T H C C Y U A H E S I H R L L M H
M A I Z E S H P N Z R H A M N S E U A
O L L G W F S I E M V R N A E D Y S D
I V Y E F I Q B N S D M T R T P T H Z
TXT PERT Potato
M T D Z C G A R L I C T S R T M P R U
C E P U M P K I N C A H H O L H O O K
J I M F E N N E L H R H A W E K N O I
S C A L L I O N V I R S L L R I C M B
Clues Pumpkin Across 1Radish 6673 (4) 4Sage 447 (3) 6Scallion 4747 (4) 7Soy 75353866 (8) 10 45263 (5) Swede 2 is A, B or C 3 Tomato is D, E or F 4 Turnip is G, H or I 5 Yam is J, K, or L
A C A L A B R E S E T G O N R T R Q A
M X N P E A B E A N Z E T N Y F B N N
1
4 3
3
1
HOW MANY COWS? Can you count every one of the cows in the picture? Answer above.
This month: The body
The numbers point you to the letters on a phone keypad Pulse
Spinach
Y K O H L R A B I V O A L A O O V T E
HOW MANY COWS?
B C T O M A T O T T U R N I P L T E B
Answer: 15.
B I L E T T U C E S C H I C K P E A O
Each horizontal row, each 2x2 square and each column must contain all the numbers 1-4.
SOLUTIONS
TXT PERT
A H B O T A Y X G O U R D D E L J G N
EASY for children
Across 1 Nose, 4 Hip, 6 Iris, 7 Skeleton, 10 Gland. Down 1 Nails, 2 Spine, 3 Chest, 5 Pain, 8 Knee, 9 Legs.
C C P H H G R E E N S M P I M E N T O
SUDOKU
WORDSEARCH
This month: Vegetables
Can you find 51 vegetables hidden vertically, horizontally or diagonally?
Adzuki bean, Beet, Cabbage, Calabrese, Caper, Capsicum, Carrot, Celery, Chard, Chickpea, Chicory, Chili, Chive, Cole, Corn, Cress, Cucumber, Eschalot, Fennel, Garlic, Giant shallot, Gourd, Greens, Kale, Kohlrabi, Leek, Lentil, Lettuce, Maize, Marrow, Mushroom, Mustard, Nettle, Okra, Onion, Parsley, Pea bean, Pimento, Potato, Pulse, Pumpkin, Radish, Sage, Scallion, Soy, Spinach, Swede, Tomato, Turnip, Yam, Zucchini
WORDSEARCH
1
Down 1 62457 (5) 2 77463 (5) 3 24378 (5) 5 7246 (4) 8 5633 (4) 9 5347 (4)
2
3 4
5
6
7
8
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
9
10
© www.123rf.com/profile
Zucchini
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wellsvoice
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March 2018
n SPORT
Bowls club’s teams well placed as season nears conclusion WELLS Breakaways Short Mat Bowls Club teams are doing well as they near the end of the season. The club has two teams in the Mendip League – which consists of three divisions of 12 teams, 36 in total, from around the area – and the Wells teams are currently first in Division 2 and third in Division 3. The evolution of the club began when two friends, Pat Knott and John King, bought a mat and equipment and arranged to play in the old EMI Club. When the club moved to make way for Waitrose, they set up home in the new EMI Club, and it was there that other players joined from several other clubs and Breakaways proper was formed. “On closure of this EMI Club, several moves were made as the club got bigger and more mats were purchased,” said chairman John King. The club is now based at the Blue School’s Kennion Hall and currently has 25 members playing over four full size mats. It meets every Monday at 6.45pm, though not on bank
A club night at Kennion Hall holidays, and evenings consists of approximately 20 ends with a break for tea and biscuits. “It can be played by all ages, and I would encourage people to come along and try it – I am sure they will enjoy it,” said John. “People can try it for three weeks for free, then it’s just £3 each time you play. “As a club we have several friendly matches home and away throughout the year and we play 52 weeks – we are not just a summer sport. The winter is very warm in the Kennion Hall, with
doors to a patio in summer. We have equipment for people to have a try, all they need bring is a change to flat shoes.” During the past year club members met for a Christmas meal and went on a five-day tour to Torquay where they played 10 matches and had 10 roll-up games. Similar outings are being planned for the year ahead. “Beginners are very welcome. Just turn up to one of the regular Monday night sessions,” said John. For more information, call him on 01749 670671.
Golf club captains hand over £11,000 to charities A YEAR of fundraising by Wells Golf Club members has ended with them handing over more than £11,000 to charity. The club’s captains – Stuart Mann (Club Captain 2017), Tina Davies (Ladies Captain), Glyn Hallett (Seniors Captain) and Tom Roberts (Juniors Captain) – chose the British Heat Foundation (BHF) and the Atmospherics Trust as the charities they supported throughout the year. The money was raised through their annual Charity Golf Day and a variety of other activities. Members also participated in CPR training. As a result, they were able to present a cheque for £7,905 to the BHF, and another for £3,388 to the Atmospherics Trust. The BHF is the leading independent funder of cardiovascular research in the
A cheque is presented to the Atmospherics Trust UK, and Stuart said: “It was a pleasure to be able to present a cheque for £7,905 to such a worthy cause.” Victoria Carswell, BHF fundraising manager for Dorset and Somerset, said: “Wells Golf Club’s support has been outstanding, and greatly appreciated.” Founded and run by husband and wife team Sheenah and Paul Wallis, the Coxley-based
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Atmospherics Trust charity offers relaxation therapies for people with mental and physical disabilities. It relies heavily on a combination of self-funding patients and other donations. “The work done by Sheenah, Paul and their team was an inspiration to myself and the other captains and it was a pleasure to be able to support them,” said Glyn.
Colourful new kits for junior tennis players HOUSEBUILDER Crest Nicholson is supporting the junior players at Wells Tennis Club. The club attracts around 70 players to its regular coaching sessions and now has 23 junior members aged up to 18. With more competition opportunities coming up in 2018, teams will be supported by Crest Nicholson’s name and logo on its new kits. Wells Tennis Club is next to Crest Nicholson’s Vicarage Fields site and has been a part of the local community since 1895. Crest Nicholson has invested in several community initiatives in Wells, including the under 14 girls team at Wells Football Club. The president of Wells Tennis Club, Tasha Smith, said: “We’ve
Young players in their Crest Nicholson kits got a keen and growing band of young tennis players at Wells who can now be easily identified as club members and show their level of progression thanks to the new coloured shirts.” Sandra Dixon, sales and marketing director at Crest Nicholson South West, said: “It’s a privilege to support the Wells Tennis Club and, in particular, the club’s Junior Team as they take on neighbouring clubs. We’re looking forward to seeing the players have a successful year in their brand-new kits. “At Vicarage Fields we pride ourselves on building a closeknit community with facilities and community projects that will benefit all who live here. We’re committed to supporting the Wells area, from sponsorship of local sports clubs, to building of additional play parks for children to enjoy now and into the future. We look forward to watching the Wells Tennis Club prosper in 2018 and beyond.”
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wellsvoice
March 2018
wellsvoice
31
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www.wellsvoice.co.uk
LOCAL SERVICES
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HEALTH AND WELLBEING
ACCREDITED COUNSELLOR & EFT THERAPIST Help for a wide variety of emotional issues
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