Wells Voice March 2019

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March 2019 Issue 21

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Police investigate spate of incidents around city A BURGLARY at The Lawrence Centre in Chamberlain Street is one of several incidents in Wells that police are investigating.

Other incidents include an attempted break-in at Sante Wines in Wells High Street, and criminal damage at the launderette in St Cuthbert Street, the dry cleaners in Queen Street and Just Ales micropub in Market Street.

Lawrence Centre manager Maggie Charlesworth contacted police after discovering the break-in at the day centre, which provides activities and companionship for older people, on Saturday, February 16.

Two doors were forced open and filing cabinets in the office were smashed apart, while a lock on a container outside was snapped off and equipment strewn on the ground. A pot of money was also stolen containing about £50, takings from the sale of greetings cards.

“We’re totally shocked,” said Maggie.

Continued on page 4

Event promises day of family fun Party on the Pitch at Wells FC will combine music, fair attractions, food and football Turn to page 5

More post office points in future?

Possibility of post office counters in two shops if Market Place closure goes ahead Turn to page 8

Win tickets to see all festival’s films Win tickets for two to seven screenings in our exciting Wells Film Festival competition Turn to page 9

Comedy festival adds new acts Insults and china fly as couples clash in new production at Wells Little Theatre – page 11

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wellsvoice

March 2019

3

n NEWS

Eye-catching image wins Neil top prize WELLS photographer Neil Bremner is celebrating after winning a prestigious competition entered by some of the most talented photographers from around the UK and Europe.

Neil’s image of his daughter Grace holding a burning umbrella was placed first in the Print Competition at this year’s Guild of Photographers Awards.

The Made Portraits studio owner has won a number of awards over the past six years but this is the first time he has taken top spot in an annual competition.

“I really haven’t taken it all in quite yet,” he said. “The standard of images in the Print Competition was off the scale so my expectations hadn’t been anywhere near to what actually happened.”

Neil used his Photoshop skills to create the composite image from several separate photos, and his eye for detail was recognised by photography judges Saraya Cortaville and Kevin Pengelley who said: “Neil

should be delighted with his extraordinary achievement.”

Neil specialises in fun family portraits in his Glastonbury studio so taking a step outside was a little unfamiliar.

“I wanted to get myself out of my comfort zone and taking my photography outdoors to create something moodier than my normal work seemed like the perfect fit,” he said.

The image was photographed with Grace on a lane near Godney. She has appeared in several of Neil’s award-winning images, including one of her looming over a wall at The Bishop’s Palace that appeared in Wells Voice.

“When I’m coming up with new concepts or ideas, Grace is brilliant as she understands the process and realises that setting up can take a while,” said Neil.

“She’s incredibly patient and she loves that she features in my work. We’re a team.”

Neil Bremner’s image of his daughter Grace with a burning umbrella just went that extra mile burning the mount which fitted the image perfectly.”

Steve Thirsk, director of the guild, said: “The guild has very demanding standards when judging photographic competitions. The judging

is undertaken by a panel of internationally recognised experts from a variety of photographic backgrounds so Neil Bremner quite rightly

Neil Bremner at the prize-giving

Role available in community play WELLS Theatre Festival has almost finished casting for its community production of Much Ado About Nothing which will be performed in front of Wells Cathedral over the weekend of July 11-14.

Last year’s production of Romeo and Juliet was such a success that the organisers are planning an extra performance this year, so there will be three in total.

They are still searching for a local actor to play the role of Don John, the ‘plain dealing villain’ famously played by Keanu Reeves in the 1993 film.

Artistic director Ros Johnson would like to hear from anyone who would like to audition for the part. Email ros@wellstheatrefestival.org.

It should be noted that casting for this year’s production is gender neutral.

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Email: news@wellsvoice.co.uk

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wellsvoice n NEWS

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

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LOC AL INFORMATION

APRIL DEADLINE

Wells City Council www.wells.gov.uk 01749 673091 Police www.avonandsomerset.police.uk General inquiries: 101 Emergency: 999 Fire www.dsfire.gov.uk General inquiries: 01392 872 200 Emergency: 999 NHS www.nhs.uk Urgent calls: 111 Emergency: 999

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

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

COMPL AINTS Despite our best efforts, we sometimes get things wrong.

We always try to resolve issues informally at first but we also have a formal complaints procedure. If you have a complaint about anything in Wells Voice, contact the Editor using the details above. We aspire to follow the Code of Conduct of the NUJ (National Union of Journalists), which holds journalists to a high standard of behaviour. Further details of the complaints process can be found on the Wells Voice website, or can be obtained by contacting the Editor.

PUBLISHER’S NOTE: Wells Voice is independent. We cannot take responsibility for content or accuracy of adverts, and it is advertisers’ responsibility to conform to all relevant legislation. We cannot vouch for any services offered. Opinions are not necessarily those of the editor. Wells Voice is distributed each month to residents.

Feedback is always welcomed – email news@wellsvoice.co.uk. This month 6,700 copies will be distributed around Wells and surrounding villages.

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March 2019

Police called out to series of incidents From page 1 “It’s the second time in two years. I can’t understand why anyone would do this to a dedicated, hard-working charity.”

The break-in is believed to have happened between 6pm on Friday, February 15, and midday on Saturday.

Maggie said that the centre’s front door will now be strengthened, and an alarm installed.

There was an apparent attempt to burgle Sante Wines in Wells High Street just after 1.30am on Sunday, February 17.

Police were called by staff from Mendip District Council’s CCTV who had spotted suspicious behaviour. At 1.35am a man in his 40s was arrested nearby on suspicion of attempted burglary. He was later released under investigation.

The shop door was damaged but no entry was gained and nothing was stolen.

Police were also called just before 9.40am on Saturday, February 16, to a report of criminal damage at the launderette in St Cuthbert Street, Wells. The door was damaged between 5pm on Friday, February 15, and 9.30am on Saturday. There was no entry to the premises and nothing was stolen.

PC Darren Pearson of the local policing team said: “Please

Maggie Charlesworth with one of the damaged cabinets make sure you secure and alarm your premises overnight and if you have CCTV, ensure it is working and you are able to download the images captured.”

He added: “There have been incidents at Just Ales in Market Street and the dry cleaners in Queen Street both having plants removed and damage caused.

This is thought to be mindless vandalism by persons who have consumed too much alcohol. We will be reviewing CCTV of these incidents to try and identify the culprits.

“If anyone has any information about any of these incidents please contact your local beat team.”

People can get in touch through www.avonandsomerset. police.uk/contact, or by calling 101, quoting the relevant reference number (Lawrence Centre: 5219034850; Sante Wines: 5219035230; launderette: 5219034701).

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Email: sales@wellsvoice.co.uk

wellsvoice

March 2019

5

n NEWS

Fundraising day will be one big party A MAJOR fundraising event in Wells will provide a day of family entertainment incorporating music, football and all the fun of the fair.

The Party on the Pitch will be held at the Wells Football Club ground in Rowdens Road on Sunday, May 5.

The fun will kick off with a charity football match starting at 10.30am.

From midday there will be live music, fair attractions, face painting, food and drink stalls and a bar that will continue until 10pm.

Entry is free but buckets will be taken around on the day for donations to the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance, and there will be a charity auction of an art piece and the match ball signed by all the players.

The Party on the Pitch, which could become an annual event, is being organised by Steve Loxton, James Bevan and Nathan Phillips of Wells FC. “Our aim is to create a family

Event organisers James Bevan, Steve Loxton and Nathan Phillips fun day which Wells residents will look forward to each year,” said James.

“There’s not much better than to raise money for charity,

get funds for our club and at the same time have a big party.”

The music headliner will be

Momentum, and other bands confirmed so far include the Frukulele Orchestra group and The Grey Dogs Jazz band.

A competition is also being run with local schools to give an up and coming band the chance to make an appearance on the main stage.

More than 40 local businesses have come together to help sponsor the event, in addition to five main business sponsors, St Andrews Press, Protec, Devondale Electrical, 24/7 Drainage and Wells Cathedral School, and a private sponsor, Trevor Higgs.

“Local businesses have once again shown their strength by working together to sponsor our event,” said James.

“We have been totally blown away by the support we’ve had and we cannot thank them enough.” u Sports Talk, page 37

Cathedral wins access award WELLS Cathedral has been recognised for its commitment to making the Cathedral as accessible as possible with a win at the recent South West Tourism Excellence Awards.

The Cathedral won bronze in the Access and Inclusivity category and was up against entrants from across the whole of the South West region including Wiltshire, Dorset, Cornwall, Devon, Somerset, Bristol, Bath and Gloucestershire.

The South West Tourism Excellence Awards recognise the ongoing quality development of top tourism businesses in the region. All entrants in the South West underwent a rigorous

short-listing process with 472 being visited by a team of 51 mystery shoppers.

Jackie Croft, Wells Cathedral’s Administrator and Chapter Clerk, said: “Wells Cathedral welcomes over 300,000 visitors and conducts well over 1,000 services every year.

“Like many historic buildings, there may be some access ‘challenges’ but we are committed to making the Cathedral as accessible as possible to all of our visitors and supporters so this is great recognition for us, and amongst such prestigious company across the region.”

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Wells Voice features on BBC news WELLS Voice was featured in a report about the news industry on BBC One. An item on News at Ten about the Cairncross Review, in which Dame Frances Cairncross was asked by Prime Minister Theresa May to investigate the sustainability of high-quality

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journalism in the UK as newspaper circulations and advertising revenues decline, highlighted Wells Voice as a successful new publication that is bucking the trend.

A clip from the broadcast can be viewed on the Wells Voice Facebook page.

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6

March 2019

n NEWS

Range of opinions about parking and pedestrianisation A WIDE range of views were expressed at a lively public meeting in Wells to discuss parking and pedestrianisation.

There was standing room only at the meeting in Seager Hall organised by Wells Independents.

Chairman Philip Welch, a Wells city councillor, said that the aim was to get the views of people in Wells and pass those on to the public bodies that have the power to make changes.

On the topic of whether there should be limited pedestrianisation of Wells High Street, some of the traders in the audience voiced strong opposition.

“The idea of pedestrianisation really frightens me,” said Michelle Machin of Whiting & Son, who said that the shop has two or three pallets of goods delivered most days, and that a ban on vehicles would mean customers not being able to collect heavy items such as Calor gas and compost.

Robert Bevan from Protec agreed that takings would be badly hit, and said: “The car is our lifeblood. The car is part of the reason why Wells is thriving today.”

Shopkeepers should have a big input, said Keith Rudyard: “Trading is hard enough today.

We do not want to see our lovely

There was standing room only at Seager Hall for the public meeting More than 100 people attended the public meeting in Seager Hall city sink because our High Street sinks.”

Resident Steve Barkham said that commercial vehicles and buses were the ones that needed to be stopped and that they could be diverted away from High Street.

But concern was also voiced about any changes to bus routes, meaning that elderly people might no longer be able to be dropped off near Market Place and High Street.

There was also concern that Wells could become more dangerous and vandal-prone at night if no vehicles were driving through, and about the impact on people who live in the city centre.

Councillor Roy Mackenzie said: “I think there could be a trial for a limited time. I’m in favour of a small number of Wednesdays and Saturdays to see how it goes.”

Loaye Agabani wondered how the success of a trial could be judged, and said that the risk to retailers of pedestrianisation is too great.

It was pointed out that motorists use High Street

unnecessarily as a through route to other destinations, while two people raised the issue of air pollution, and said that pedestriansation would benefit people from a health point of view Andrew Fawcett suggested a compromise solution: putting up a sign at the top of Sadler Street saying Access Only.

There was overwhelming support for this idea when a show of hands was requested.

Only two people were in favour of full pedestrianisation, while there was limited support for leaving things as they are or introducing pedestrianisation on market days or for certain events.

Turning to the issue of parking, everybody who spoke seemed to think it is a big problem in Wells, both with car parks and on-street parking.

Suggestions put forward ranged from allowing the first 30 minutes of parking in car parks to be free, and paying on exit rather than entry to allow people to stay in Wells for longer instead of having to rush off, to park and ride or park and walk schemes.

All shop’s stock going on sale for £1 THE Cancer Research UK shop in Wells High Street is gearing up for a sale in the first week of March when everything will cost just £1.

The sale is designed to clear stock before the summer range comes in, explained new assistant manager Cathy Allen.

She said that the shop is

To advertise, contact Andy on 01749 675157

currently looking for more volunteers. People interested should call in to collect an application form.

One of the shop’s existing volunteers, Kitty Walsh, is taking part in Sugar Free February to raise money for the charity and would welcome sponsorship from customers.

Email: sales@wellsvoice.co.uk

wellsvoice n LETTERS

March 2019

Mike Phelps said that he is going to apply for full planning permission to allow him to open Palace Fields as a car park more often than the 28 days he is allowed to do so at present, on market days and for special events, ground conditions permitting.

Three people who spoke all said they feared a fatality because of the parking situation on North Road.

In response to remarks that Wells Cathedral School should be providing parking for its students, who end up parking on North Road, or that land owned by the school near the skate park could be used for parking, the school’s director of estates, Eloise Kench, who lives in the area and was in the audience, said that the school was always looking at the issues and trying to find solutions.

From a show of hands, the majority of people present were in favour of free parking for an hour, more long-term and shortterm parking, and paying on exit at car parks.

There was less support for a park and ride scheme, and about 30 people were in favour of a residents’ parking scheme.

Wells Independents have sent a report on the meeting to Somerset County Council, Mendip District Council and Wells City Council.

Residents’ parking schemes have a number of drawbacks WE were interested to hear the views of residents discussing the traffic problems in Wells at the recent public meeting, during which a suggestion was made that a residents’ parking scheme should be introduced.

Having had experience of such a scheme elsewhere, we would like to point out the following: n There are costs to residents, who must purchase permits for each car to be parked on the road, with the charge for a second and subsequent vehicle being higher and a maximum number of vehicles for each household. n Additional tickets must be purchased for every visitor/trader calling to the permitholder’s home. n Spaces are not allocated to people outside their own houses. n The tickets purchased are only valid for a small area around

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the owner’s street, and if all the spaces are taken parking must be paid for elsewhere. In other words, ticketholders are not guaranteed a place to park. n It is possible that the space available will not accommodate the number of cars owned, especially where there are lines of terraced houses, and given that many homes will have more than one car.

Our own situation resulted in easier parking during the day but still meant a scramble in the evenings.

We agree that action must be taken, promptly, to increase parking in order to maintain our delightful city, which is so welcoming to visitors and new residents.

Andy and Helen Ball By email n Email your letters to news@wellsvoice.co.uk

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Email: news@wellsvoice.co.uk

wellsvoice

8

March 2019

n NEWS

Search for post office solution

Free prostate cancer testing

WELLS could end up with two sites near the city centre providing post office services when, as seems likely, the post office in Wells Market Place closes in September.

The probable closure was revealed by Wells Voice last month, due to the resignation of the postmaster and the lack of interest from anyone else in running the post office at its present site.

Since then, Post Office Ltd has had discussions with Wells City Council – which owns the premises – and Wells MP James Heappey to try to find a solution for future post office provision.

A multi-site option is said to be under consideration, including resurrecting plans for a business in Tucker Street to provide a post office counter – there was a bid to launch post office services in the Spar shop in the past – as well as having a post office counter in one of the shops in Wells High Street.

Wells Chamber of Commerce & Tourism is being consulted.

MEN aged 50 and over are being invited to take advantage of free prostate cancer testing in Wells.

Wells Lions Club has organised the session, which involves a simple blood test carried out by experienced medical practitioners.

It will take place at St Thomas’ Church on Saturday, April 6, from 10am-2pm.

Appointments can be made in advance to avoid waiting on the day by calling Peter Hopwood on 01458 441669 or emailing peterhopwood46@gmail.com Men over the age of 50 have a significant risk of developing prostate cancer, the most common cancer in men.

The post office in Wells Market Place, which is due to close in September Chamber chairman Robert Powell said: “The chamber is keen to work with the city council to help keep a central post office provision in the centre of Wells.”

Any formal proposals would eventually have to go out to public consultation.

A Post Office spokesperson said: “We can confirm we have had constructive meetings with the local MP and local council about Wells Post Office, and are

grateful for their support and understanding.

“We are currently reviewing options to maintain post office services in the area from September and we hope to be able to give more details on this soon.”

Any city centre retailer interested in having a post office counter can contact the Post Office direct or the city council at the Town Hall.

Charity in urgent need of more storage space AN organisation which collects donated furniture and passes it on to people in need in the area is looking for more storage space.

The Vineyard Church is a registered charity based at Keward Mill Trading Estate on Jocelyn Drive, Wells. Its senior pastors are Don and Lynne Hart.

Part of its outreach work is to receive donated furniture, and

some household effects, which are then given to people in need in Wells and the surrounding area. Storehouse manager Keith Rudyard said: “We have the use of two standard size garages, with up and over doors, which have been generously loaned to us. However, we are now in desperate need for more storage space in Wells. We would like a

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large, dry and secure storage area with easy access for our threeand-a-half-ton van, which has a tail lift.”

Anyone who is able to help with storage – or who can help sponsor the running of the van, which costs about £1,000 a year – is invited to contact Keith on 07813 140258 or rudyard86@ tiscali.co.uk

Talk as part of coffee morning A COFFEE and cake morning in Wells will include a talk about rural rough sleeping and working with adults with complex need in the community.

The event, organised by the Wells Labour Party, will take place at The Lawrence Centre in Chamberlain Street on Saturday, March 9, from 10.30am-noon.

Stephen Fowler, of the Connect Centre, will be attending from 10.45am to talk about Street Level Outreach and the work of the Connect Centre.

Everyone is welcome and there will be an opportunity for questions.

View every issue online at issuu.com/wellsvoice

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Email: sales@wellsvoice.co.uk

wellsvoice

March 2019

9

n COMPETITION

Pick Of The Litter

Win tickets to see seven great films WELLS Festival Of Film is paying tribute to local heroes for its fourth annual festival, as well as those on the big screen.

And one lucky Wells Voice reader can gain free entry for two to all seven films being shown this year if they win our exciting competition run in conjunction with Wells Film Centre.

Highlights of this year’s festival, from April 26-28, include a pre-release screening of Pick Of The Litter, a documentary about five puppies going through guide dog training.

Local advocate Helen McCann will be at the screening with her guide dog Alfie and some of his friends.

Following reports that some businesses were turning guide dogs away, Wells Film Centre proprietor Sally Cooper said: “We wanted to show our support to Helen as well as show that

The Kid Who Would Be King

guide dogs are always welcome at the Film Centre.”

This year’s outdoor screenings, which take place at The Bishop’s Palace on April 26 and 27, will be of The Kid Who Would Be King (PG).

Some scenes in the film were filmed on location at Glastonbury Tor – which can be seen on the mythical Sword in the Stone Excalibur – Glastonbury Abbey and Chalice Well. “We are so excited to be showing this film,” said Sally.

“Not only is it filmed locally but it also has local fencers as extras.”

Tickets to the outdoor screenings are £25 to include pre-show entertainment, a hog roast and drink and a goody bag to take home.

But there are two tickets up for grabs to one of the outdoor screening evenings and all six other films in the 2019 festival.

To be in with a chance of winning, just answer this simple question: Which local landmark can be found on Excalibur?

Write your answer, with your name, address and telephone number, on an envelope or postcard and leave it at the counter at Wells Film Centre, Princes Road, Wells BA5 1TD (drop-in only).

Please mark entries ‘Film festival competition’. Only one

entry per person. Entries must be received by noon on Friday, April 12, 2019. The winner will be contacted by April 18 and announced in a future edition of Wells Voice.

Normal Wells Film Centre terms and conditions apply.

The Film Centre is running a separate competition which will see an Unsung Hero or inspirational person get the chance to have their story told on the big screen and win a Go-Pro Hero Camera.

Entrants should film a 90-second video and send it via email to the festival, telling them why a friend, family member or person they know is a ‘Hero’.

The winner will also have their story made into a short film by local director Darren Cavanagh, which will then be shown at the award ceremony during the festival of film on April 28.

Email for videos: wellsfilmfestival@aol.co.uk.

Closing date is March 31, 2019.

Classic Film & Television

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2019 FILM FESTIVAL PROGRAMME Friday, April 26 n Charity Luncheon, Swan Hotel, in aid of MediCinema, noon, £20. n The Kid Who Would Be King (PG), The Bishop’s Palace, from 6.30pm, £25.

Saturday, April 27 n Wall-E (U), Wells Film Centre, 11am, £5.20. n Pick Of The Litter (U), Wells Film Centre, 2pm, adults £7.20, children £6.20. £1.50 per ticket donated to Guide Dogs for the Blind. n Sanctum 3D (15), Wells Film Centre, 4.30pm, £7.20.

n The Kid Who Would Be King (PG), The Bishop’s Palace, from 6.30pm, £25. n Shongram (15), Wells Film Centre, 7.30pm, £7.20.

Sunday, April 28 n Local Hero Ceremony, Wells Film Centre, 2pm, £7.20. n They Shall Not Grow Old 3D (15), Wells Film Centre, 4.30pm, £7.20. n Ex-Dominatrix: A True Story (15), Wells Film Centre, 7.30pm, £7.20.

More information and tickets at www.wellsfilmcentre.co.uk

Got News? Call 07906 499655

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wellsvoice

10

March 2019

n NEWS

Golf club hands over £7,500 to charity MACMILLAN Cancer Support received a cheque for £7,500 in February from Wells Golf Club.

The club raised money for Macmillan Cancer Support throughout 2018 after nominating it as their charity of the year.

Most of the money was raised on the Wells Golf Club Charity Day which was organised by the Club Captain Colin Mantle, Ladies Captain Cath Levell and Seniors Captain John Motson.

Funds came in through competition entries, hole sponsorship, auctions for various prizes and other competitions.

The captains had a charity bunker and ‘out of bounds’ area with a fine of £1 for entering these hazards.

The Wells members also provided money throughout the year from Mixed, Ladies and Senior matches and roll ups.

The club offered its thanks to

Macmillan committee members and members of Wells Golf Club at the cheque handover. From left, Carole Lee, Janet Stubbins, Lindsey Elkins, Colin Mantle, Cath Levell, Mark Tobin, Julie Waite, Leslie Ricketts and Jelena Curtis everyone who contributed to the impressive final amount.

The cheque was handed

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over in a special presentation ceremony at the Swan Hotel.

Mark Tobin, chairman of Macmillan Cancer Support for Wells & District, said how overwhelmed he was by the kindness and generosity of everyone at Wells Golf Club.

He said: “This is a staggering amount of money raised and will all be used locally within the Wells and Mendip area to help support people living with cancer.

“Macmillan offer medical, emotional, practical and financial support to cancer sufferers and their families.

Without the help and support of the local community our work would simply not be possible.

“I would like to extend my most heartfelt thanks to Colin, Cath and John along with all the members and guests of Wells Golf Club for raising this amount of money.”

Another glitzy night in store

Company set to shut Wells shop

THE Ballroom in Wells Town Hall will be the setting for another fun-filled fundraiser in March.

After the success of last year’s event, a Night of Nostalgia 2 promises more glitz and glamour to raise money for Marie Curie.

There will be music from the Twenties, Thirties and Forties, including live music from The Silver Levels Jazz Band and Lin Phelps, a best dressed competition, a raffle, nibbles and a bar.

Tickets for the event, on Saturday, March 23, from 7.30pm, cost £10 to include a free drink.

They are on sale at Wells Town Hall or contact Tina Blackwill on 07450 367805.

KINGFISHER have announced that they are going to close their shop in Broad Street, Wells.

The company installs doors, windows and conservatories, and have decided that the Wells shop is no longer big enough to properly display the product range.

Instead, they are going to upgrade their showroom at Mill Batch Farm, East Brent, and will continue to cover the city from there.

Installations will still be carried out in the Wells area, and samples and designs can be taken to customers in their home when requested.

The Wells shop, which opened in 2017, is expected to close at the end of March.

Email: sales@wellsvoice.co.uk

wellsvoice

March 2019

n NEWS

Councils step in to save advice service

THE Wells office of Citizens Advice Mendip has been saved from closure.

This follows interventions from both Mendip District Council and Wells City Council to help fund the service in the city.

Citizens Advice is an independent charity with offices throughout the Mendip area. Its free, confidential advice is largely provided by a dedicated team of unpaid volunteers supported by a team of professional staff.

Last year it assisted some 4,000 people district wide, and dealt with approximately 21,000 separate issues.

In 2018, CA Mendip heard that £98,000 of its core funding was to be lost due to budget cutbacks being made by Somerset County Council.

Malcolm Williams, chair of the CA Trustees, said: “The saving we had to make was 40 per cent of our core funding; a really tough call, believe me.

“We sadly had to lose a number of senior staff district wide, and we also had no choice but to close one of our offices to make ends meet. Once it was known it would be Wells, both Mendip council, and our landlord, Wells City Council, stepped in to meet the cost of retaining our three-day-a-week presence in the Town Hall. We want to publicly thank them for helping us stay in the city.”

The Mayor of Wells, Councillor Celia Wride, said: “Citizens Advice is a key part of our community services hub at Wells Town Hall, a lifeline to local people in these difficult times; the city council is pleased to be able to respond to their request for extra support.”

Last year, the Wells office helped 677 people tackle more than 3,500 problems.

To find out about volunteering for CA, email admin@mendipcab.org.uk or call 01749 345394.

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UFACTUR AN

Mark (Rob Prince) and Vicky (Niamh McGrogan) discuss Mark’s choice of footwear in a rehearsal for The Opposite Sex, Wells Little Theatre’s next comic production, in which the battle of the sexes is put under the microscope. Couples Mark and Vicky and Eric (Glynn Webster) and Judith (Sharon Upham) all have one thing in common – adultery. When a chance meeting leads to an unexpected dinner party, it is not long before the insults and china start flying. The show is running from March 6-9, at 7.30pm. All tickets are £8, available online at www.wellslittletheatre.com or from the box office. Call 01749 672280 for details of opening times.

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12

March 2019

n NEWS Writers giving talks at library

Staff from Mendip District Council have been baking, quizzing and cycling to raise money for Mendip YMCA. Every year staff from the district council nominate a charity of the year. In 2018 the council supported Mendip YMCA with a series of events and initiatives over the 12 months, which has resulted in £1,787.53 being raised and donated to the Mendip-based charity, which has an office in Wells. During 2019 the council staff will be supporting CLIC Sargent and already have plans for a vegan bake sale, cinema night and dress down days.

Twentieth year in business UNWINS funeral directors is celebrating its twentieth year in business.

Wells’ only independent family-run funeral directors, Unwins was established in 1999 by directors Danny and Christine Unwin.

Their daughter Becky joined the business as a funeral director in 2006, and said: “We have had tremendous support from the very beginning and we want to thank everyone who has put their trust in us at incredibly difficult periods of their lives to carry out the wishes of their loved ones.

We lost Dad suddenly in August and I think that has made us even more aware of what people are going through and how to try and make that time easier.”

Unwins’ refurbished swan For the platinum anniversary, Unwins is inviting new and previous clients to its office at

Underwood, Wookey Hole Road, for refreshments and cake to meet the team and discuss its services, including monumental masonry and Golden Charter Funeral Plans, approved by the Funeral Planning Authority.

The event will be on Friday, March 22, between 10am and 3pm.

Unwins is also celebrating the return of its swan, which had gone off to be refurbished, and is keen for the people of Wells to see the latest addition to the flock.

Christine said: “She is a fitting tribute to Danny, who is still very much missed in the business but we think he would have approved. All we need to do now is think of a name for her.”

New charity taking lead in promotional work THE recent launch of Wells Heritage Partners is not only introducing joint tickets for The Bishop’s Palace, Wells Cathedral and Wells & Mendip Museum, but the new charity will take the lead in promoting the city as a heritage destination.

To ensure that this is coordinated with the wider city and its surrounding area, Visit Wells will also be incorporated as a formal entity, with a steering group which will ensure that key stakeholders are represented as partners: including local councils, festivals and cultural groups, accommodation

providers and restaurants.

For the last nine years volunteers at the museum have answered calls and emails and dealt with face-to-face enquires in order to ensure that visitors to Wells have been able to make the most of their visits. This service – for which the museum was awarded the Believe in Somerset award for Contribution to Tourism in December – will continue to be provided, but a formal partnership with others will allow an expansion of the service.

One of the questions which often arises is why there is

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no tourism presence in the Market Place. The new entity will examine the options for making sure that visitors get the information they need both before they travel and when they arrive – and that they can book tickets for the many events that take place throughout the year.

Discussions are already being held as to what form a tourism presence in the Market Place might take in 2019, and how it could be funded.

Residents are welcome to make suggestions by emailing community@wellsmuseum.org. uk

TWO talks by writers will take place at Wells Library in March.

Karen Melissa Genge, local author of Red Socks & Pink Knickers: The Third Testament and the Utopia – Swing Set Series, will be talking about and reading extracts from her books on Saturday, March 2, at 11am.

Dr Justin Newland will discuss how The Great Ming Code, the law book of the Ming Dynasty, attempted to harmonise human society with the will of Heaven on Saturday, March 16, from 11am-12.30pm.

Both events are free but spaces must be reserved by talking to library staff, emailing wlslib@somerset.gov.uk or calling 0300 123 2224. n The library’s new creative writing group is looking for more members. The group meets on Mondays from 2pm-4pm. Call 0300 123 2224 or email wlslib@ somerset.gov.uk n Read and rhyme sessions are being held at the library on March 7 and March 21, from 10am-10.45am. The free activities are aimed at children under the age of five, who must be accompanied by an adult.

City on coach award shortlist WELLS has been shortlisted in the Coach Friendly Destination category in this year’s British Coach Tourism Awards.

The Bishop’s Palace is shortlisted in the Coach Friendly Attraction category.

The winners will be announced at a black tie event in Birmingham on March 20.

Stock giveaway for anniversary THE vape shop in St Cuthbert Street, Wells, celebrated its first anniversary by giving away hundreds of pounds worth of kits and liquid to several lucky customers.

The big giveaway came at the end of a successful first year for City Vape. It has expanded its range since it opened last February and now stocks more than 300 different flavours.

Email: sales@wellsvoice.co.uk

Introducing ‘Locals Night’ at The White Hart Since relaunching The White Hart as a pub in December last year things have been going rather well Sunday lunch is proving to be a local’s favourite as to is our weekly Sunday Quiz night This month we are launching local’s night

Every Wednesday night you can get a local’s main course for just £6.50 We have even decided on the dish for each week, so you know what’s on offer

1st Wednesday of the month Beer Batter Fish and Chips

2nd Wednesday of the month Pie and Mash

3rd Wednesday of the month Ox cheek ragu with pappardelle pasta, fresh herbs & parmesan

4th Wednesday of the month Green Thai chicken curry, braised basmati rice, poppadum Vegetarian option will always be available

We hope this amazing price will put the brakes on cooking at home on a Wednesday night and tempt you to pop down to The White Hart for a bite to eat

Sadlers Street, Wells, Somerset BA5 2RR whitehartwells.com

wellsvoice

14

March 2019

n NEWS

Sale marks tenth anniversary

Stormy scenes in choral work

BRITELLY, the nostalgic gift store in Wells, is celebrating its tenth anniversary.

To celebrate and make way for more new additions, an anniversary sale is on throughout March, with big discounts on many popular lines.

Store owner Peter Culley opened the original shop in Market Street in March 2009, and moved to larger premises in Queen Street in November 2014.

Britelly specialises in character-related gift products and greeting cards, together with classic film and TV programmes on DVD, with a slant towards mostly British popular culture.

Childhood favourites and nostalgic brands is the main theme. Ranges stocked include iconic TV shows such as Dad’s Army, Doctor Who and Only Fools and Horses, and cult franchises like Game of Thrones, Harry Potter and Star Wars.

Childhood favourites include The Moomins and Snoopy as well as modern classics such as The Gruffalo.

THERE will be tempest and earthquake, spiritual battle and the voice of God at Wells Cathedral on March 30, when Wells Cathedral Oratorio Society presents Felix Mendelssohn’s Elijah.

The Oratorio Society will be joined by soloists and orchestra for one of the most important choral works of the 19th century.

Last performed by the Society in Wells in 2006, the audience can once again experience the power, excitement and tension of this epic musical drama telling the story of the prophet Elijah.

Felix Mendelssohn said in 1838: “I imagined Elijah as a real prophet through and through, of the kind we could really do with today: Strong, zealous and, yes, even bad-tempered, angry and brooding – in contrast to the riffraff, whether of the court or the people, and indeed in contrast to almost the whole world – and yet borne aloft as if on angels’ wings.”

Tickets for Elijah, which starts at 7pm, can be bought online at www.wcos.org.uk, with some available from Wells Cathedral Shop.

Peter Culley in the Britelly store in Queen Street Peter said: “Whether you’re a fan of a particular TV show or film franchise or just looking for a gift that’s a little bit different then there’s almost certainly a present solution for any generation stocked here.

“It may seem strange in the days of downloads and streaming for DVD to still be popular, but

many customers still prefer to own their favourite programming in a physical form in the same way that music fans love vinyl.”

The store stocks an eclectic mix of cult and niche DVD titles, and offers a personal ordering service for any commercially available title. “If it’s in print you can obtain it here,” said Peter.

Leaders hold talks on future of local government THE leaders and chief executives of six Somerset councils met on Wednesday, January 30, to consider progress on research into the options for the future of local government services in the county.

The six involved in discussions are Mendip District Council, Somerset County Council, Sedgemoor District Council, South Somerset District

Council, Taunton Deane Borough Council and West Somerset Council.

In a joint statement issued afterwards, they said: “This research will continue over the coming months to test the early findings and consider next steps.

The options being researched are considering how services can be protected and better outcomes delivered for the communities of

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Somerset within the challenging financial climate for public sector organisations and to make sure that local government and the services it provides are financially sustainable for the future.

“The research is also examining what changes might be made that strengthen the voice of the communities of Somerset.”

Bereaved have chance to talk A BEREAVEMENT Cafe for anyone who has lost a loved one is being held at St Thomas’ Church, Wells, on Thursday, March 7. People are invited to call in and talk over a cup of tea between 10.30am and noon.

Art history lectures with a difference With local art historian and lecturer JOANNA COBB MA (Dillington House, WEA, ArtsLink, Talking Film etc.)

Thursday 21st March 2pm-4pm, Seager Hall, Wells

Continuing the series ‘Art and Artifice in Tudor England’, which can be joined at any time Tickets £10 per person/£18 for two people. Includes fully illustrated lecture, light refreshments and comprehensive handouts

For more details or to reserve a place, contact Joanna on 01458 832178 or ericjoanna@waitrose.com Or come along on the day. All welcome

Email: sales@wellsvoice.co.uk

wellsvoice

March 2019

15

n NEWS

New nursery will offer more

Opportunity to call in for cuppa

THERE will be more nursery places available in the Wells area in the autumn when a new nursery opens.

Staff and children at the family-run Tree House Nursery at South Horrington will move a few metres into a bigger purpose-built nursery being constructed next door.

The present nursery, which has been home to Tree House for more than 25 years, will be knocked down once the new nursery is completed and replaced by two four-bedroom homes that will fund the project.

The building was once the social club for staff who worked at Mendip Hospital and is showing its age.

“We can’t sustain the existing building, and we want to create more services such as an afterschool club, a breakfast club and a summer school,” said nursery manager Zoe Matton.

“It will be really nice to have a

FROM March 5, a new venture called Coffee Stop will be starting in St Thomas’ Church.

It will be open every Tuesday from 9am to noon, except April 2, when anyone will be welcome to call in to relax over a cuppa.

The sessions are starting early so that parents and carers can drop in after taking children to school, but organisers hope people of all ages will go along at whatever time suits them.

Following the redevelopment at St Thomas’, there are small tables and comfortable chairs at the back of the church.

Good coffee, a selection of teas and homemade cake will be available from the new servery. There is plenty of space for wheelchairs, buggies and prams, and a play area for young children.

People are invited with friends or on their own, and are assured that there will always be someone to talk to.

Zoe and Jo Matton at the site of the new nursery purpose-built nursery for us and the team, and the opportunity will be there to provide places for more children.”

The new two-storey nursery is being built in part of the existing nursery’s wooded area and car park, with a new entrance on Old Frome Road. Part of the wooded area will be retained, and there will be a new covered outdoor play area.

Zoe and her mother Jo, one

of the directors, hope that they will be able to move into the new nursery later this year.

“It’s exciting. The staff are excited,” said Jo, pointing out that there is more demand for nursery places as Wells expands.

“It’s a big service to Wells,” added Zoe. “The majority of parents are working parents. It also provides job opportunities, and staff numbers will go up.”

Be what you are at Wells Saturday 2nd March Whole School Open Morning Wednesday 13th March Be a Specialist Musician for a Day Saturday 16th March Be a Mathematician for a Day Wednesday 27th March Early Years Foundation Stage & Nursery Open Afternoon

Got News? Call 07906 499655

Email: news@wellsvoice.co.uk

wellsvoice

16

March 2019

n NEWS

Wheels set in motion to help homeless STAR Murray knows what it is like to live rough. For months he eked out an existence in the woods around Wells with the help of survival skills he learned in the Territorial Army.

Now he is putting his knowledge and experience to good use helping others with no roof over their head.

With the help of the Positive People organisation and a twoweek business course, he has set up his own company, Help the Homeless Coach Cafe.

Using money he saved from occasional work, he has bought a coach to live in and to provide a refuge for people sleeping rough who are in need of a hot drink and a bit of company. The coach is sometimes parked at Wells Coach Station and sometimes near the Red Brick Building in Glastonbury – and is always open for visitors.

They can have one tea or coffee, but Star will not permit

Star Murray on board his coach alcohol, smoking or drugs on or around the coach.

“I’m out to help homeless people. It’s not a job. It’s not to make money. It’s a passion,” he said.

“When I was living in the

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woods I thought wouldn’t it be nice if you were struggling and you could just go somewhere and knock on the door and it doesn’t matter what time it is.”

The coach has a small kitchen area with a wooden worktop that is going to be replaced with a stainless steel one so that Star can provide soup and hot drinks.

Eventually, he hopes to fit an awning and have tables and chairs outside.

There is a woodburner for warmth and a storage area for donated items such as clothes and sleeping bags that Star can hand out to people in need.

He plans to have solar panels fitted to provide energy so that people can have a shower or charge up mobile devices, and a donor has provided 12 months of wi-fi for internet access.

Eventually, he would like the project to grow into a number of double-decker buses around the country with kitchens downstairs

and sleeping accommodation upstairs that he can hand over to local communities to run.

“We were brought up that if anybody falls down, pick them up, if anybody is hurting, talk to them. That’s what my mother used to say. She died three months ago so she hasn’t seen this take off,” said Star.

He grew up on the edge of the Yorkshire Moors, but left a partner of eight years and moved south 17 years ago for a succession of odd jobs, festival work and living rough.

“I had a full-time job, a beautiful rented house in the middle of the countryside, a four-wheel drive car, a partner, a dog. I had everything. The only thing I didn’t have was happiness,” he said.

Now the Help the Homeless Coach Cafe has given him a new sense of purpose, and he has gained an affinity for Wells – particularly Wells Cathedral.

“I want to be based near Wells because I want to be near the Cathedral,” he said.

“I like to go to the Cathedral as it brings back lots of memories. When I was homeless I would go there for shelter. It was the best place to go.

“I’m in tears when I light a candle. I light a candle for my mother and for homeless people.

And I do kneel down and say a prayer to the creator: ‘Please help those who are out there.

Can we have some peace and blessings on this world?’” n Donations to the Help the Homeless Coach Cafe can be made at https://www.gofundme. com/help-the-homeless-coachcafe

Family pay tribute to 19-year-old THE family of a 19-yearold man who died following a collision near Croscombe have paid tribute to him.

Cameron McQuarrie, pictured right, died after the car he was driving left the A371 shortly before 10pm on January 25.

In a statement, his family said: “The family and friends of Cameron McQuarrie would like to pay him a personal tribute.

“We are all devastated by the loss of Cameron, who was loved by so many that knew him.

“His kindness and wonderful sense of humour will be so very sadly missed.”

Cameron’s funeral was due to take place on February 20 at Sedgemoor Crematorium with memories shared at The White Horse Inn, Mark, after the service.

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

March 2019

n NEWS

Suggestions over Christmas Market AT their meeting in February, members of the City and Tourism Forum had praise for the Wells Christmas Market held over four days in December – and suggested ways in which it could be better still in the future.

Councillor John North said that it was good to see better placement of the huts and alternative stalls in attendance, and wondered whether it could be expanded to the Cathedral Green, The Bishop’s Palace or down High Street.

Robert Powell, chairman of Wells Chamber of Commerce & Tourism, said that the chamber wondered whether it might be better to put it on a bit earlier in December, and whether it could be made to look a bit more Christmassy.

He said that the chamber felt what made the biggest difference

wellsvoice n BUSINESS VIEW

to that week’s trading was free parking in Wells.

Mendip district councillor Nigel Taylor, portfolio holder for Neighbourhood Services, was attending the meeting and said that he would like to see the market develop further.

Of free parking, he said that he thought it needed tweaking so that more shoppers could take advantage of it, rather than spaces being taken by people who work in Wells and left their car parked all day. He said perhaps the ticket machines could be adjusted to issue tickets for 10p or 15p for a certain time period, so there could be more ‘churn’.

He also said he had signed off on another year of free coach parking in Wells.

“It gets people to come and spend in your shops and keeps the city vibrant,” he said.

Got News? Call 07906 499655

17 With Rosie Stevens

Let’s be more flexible on flexible working Work/life balance. It’s a statement bandied around by businesses and recruiters, to differentiate working culture and attempt to attract the best talent.

GOV.UK defines flexible working as a ‘way of working that suits an employee’s needs’.

I worked with a candidate last year who struggled to land a suitable role. They had ten years’ marketing experience – but needed to work from home and be available to do the school run.

Believe it or not, this person was turned away from employers, because their flexible working requirements didn’t fit into the working ‘norm’.

But, let’s be realistic – with a marketing role (a chunk of which is now increasingly digital) why would the candidate need to be physically present for eight hours a day straight?

Here are my top three reasons why flexible working should be on the cards for your business: n Opens a whole new world of

candidates. If you can flex, you’ll find candidates you didn’t believe existed. n Promotes a ‘grown up’ working environment. If you don’t trust someone enough to work outside of the office – you probably shouldn’t have hired them in the first place. n You get back what you give.

If your employees are provided flexibility when they need it, they’ll be more prepared to ‘give back’.

Oh, and the candidate.

Landed a great role with a business which accommodated their working requirements. A few weeks in, they are a complete asset to the team – it’s like they were always there.

Is it time to rethink your stance on flexible working?

Rosie Stevens Mployable.

Take control of your hiring rosie@mployable.co.uk www.mployable.co.uk

Email: news@wellsvoice.co.uk

wellsvoice

18

March 2019

n NEWS

New names added to line-up THE Wells Comedy Festival – now in its fifth year – has announced a new batch of shows for its 2019 event.

Over the bank holiday weekend of May 24-26, dozens of comedy shows will take place at six venues in Wells.

Just announced are shows from Uncle star and Bafta nominee Nick Helm, Dead Ringers and Spitting Image impressionist Jan Ravens, Upstart Crow’s Spencer Jones, Mock the Week regular Glenn Moore and Edinburgh Comedy Award nominee Lucy Pearman.

Plus, as they have all already sold out their initial shows, extra performances are now on sale for Taskmaster loser Phil Wang, Live at the Apollo star Ed Gamble and Mock the Week’s Rhys James.

They join the already announced Nish Kumar, Mark Watson, Lost Voice Guy, Josie Long, Shappi Khorsandi, John

Robins, Dave Johns, Fern Brady, Suzi Ruffell, Laura Lexx, Jamali Maddix, Geoff Norcott, Desiree Burch, Ahir Shah, Andrew Maxwell, Lou Sanders, Jayde Adams, Adam Riches, Abandoman (aka Rob Broderick), Tony Law, Kiri Pritchard-McLean, Luke McQueen, Harriet Kemsley, Bobby Mair, Rosie Jones, Alfie Brown, Stevie Martin, Jessica Fostekew, Jordan Brookes, Ben Target, Sara Barron, Adam Hess, Olga Koch, John Kearns, Stuart Laws, Annie McGrath, Pat Cahill, Foxdog Studios and the Comedians Cinema Club’s Hot Fuzz.

Tickets for Wells Comedy Festival shows are on sale from www.wellscomfest.com. Further shows will be announced over the coming weeks.

Phil Wang, pictured top, and Ed Gamble are among those who have added more shows

Lorraine Millington with the hamper of food goodies

Hamper winner LORRAINE Millington was the lucky winner of a hamper at the Wells Food Festival stall at the Wake Up Wells Community Day. The hamper was put together with donations from food festival artisan producers.

All the visitors who showed an interest in volunteering at Wells Food Festival were entered into a draw to win the hamper. Festival organisers were delighted that almost 50 people showed an interest when they visited the Wake Up Wells event in January.

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Email: sales@wellsvoice.co.uk

wellsvoice

March 2019

19

n GOOD HEALTH

Right food can help prevent Type 2 Diabetes Health advisers GoodnessMe, based in South Horrington, urge people to watch what they eat TYPE 2 Diabetes is the fastest growing modern day disease and yet it is preventable.

Type 2 Diabetes is purely down to our daily lifestyle choices and should never be confused with Type 1 Diabetes.

It is caused by too much sugar, too much body fat, and too little physical activity.

This disease begins when our cells become less sensitive to the effects of insulin, causing a spike in sugar levels. This spike occurs when we eat sub-standard food (such as those promoted by big industries) like cereals, readymade food products, packaged sandwiches, takeaways, low fat or low calorie products, and foods containing a long list of additives and ingredients.

Type 2 Diabetes is a distressing disease and untreated

we are under-nourishing our bodies. We are overweight, tired, stressed and susceptible to illness. You can eat very little food and be overweight if it is the wrong type of food – so don’t be fooled with low calorie options!

Since publishing our column we have had many requests regarding what to do to help combat illness such as colds and flu, weight management and stress.

In all responses, it boiled down to simply eating real food, moving and relaxing. More can be found on our website: www.goodness-me.co.uk.

If you have a question you can email us at: hello@goodness-me.co.uk or call 07931 867873 and we’ll be happy to help.

Bread, cereals and takeaways can all have a lot of added ingredients can cause kidney damage, serious eye damage, heart disease and stroke. Uncontrolled diabetes can cause damage to the nerves and in some cases infection in your limbs.

STOP and think!

There has never been a truer saying than “YOU ARE WHAT YOU EAT”.

This is not great news for our food industry trying to sell us “tasty” products and foods promising to be low fat if you have borderline Type 2 Diabetes, so they create a range of “sugar

free” products – but look closer at the ingredients, no sugar but instead a lot of other harmful additives that can be damaging to your health!

Let’s take savoury foodstuffs; surely no sugar in them? Wrong!

You will be surprised at how much sugar is added to savoury foods especially those marketed as “low fat”. Even a loaf of bread has a list of ingredients as long as your arm. These ingredients are added by the manufacturer for shelf life to maximise profit.

Most of us are unaware that

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Email: news@wellsvoice.co.uk

wellsvoice

20

March 2019

n WAKE UP WELLS COMMUNITY DAY

Kirstie Harris and Emma Lefevre of Wake Up W

The scene inside Wells Cathedral during the Wake Up Wells Community Day on January 26

Community Day creates buzz as it brings people together AN overwhelming success: that was the verdict of visitors, stallholders and organisers on the Wake Up Wells Community Day held in Wells Cathedral on January 26.

The Cathedral was packed all day with people browsing the more than 100 stalls in the Nave, and some of the groups represented – ranging from charities, carnival clubs and sports clubs to the Air Cadets and the WI – reported signing up dozens of new members.

There were performances featuring musical theatre, circus and clog dancing, among others, and a sound installation in the Lady Chapel by Somerset Film, while Wells & Mendip Museum hosted arts and crafts activities.

The day was organised by Emma Lefevre and Kirstie Harris of Wake Up Wells.

Kirstie said: “We’re delighted with the turnout and wonderful comments we’ve heard. The vision of Wake Up Wells was to give the community an opportunity to connect with each other and to create their own collaborations, and we’ve certainly achieved that.”

Rebecca Allen and Julie Barrow of Wells Cathedral School with handmade swans The Dean of Wells Cathedral, the Very Rev Dr John Davies, said: “The Nave of the Cathedral buzzed with people gathered for the Wake Up Wells Community Day; the bells were rung, the media told Somerset all about the day and the feedback has been so appreciative. It was a brilliant day for the community of Wells and we are delighted that the Cathedral was able to

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play a significant part in helping to encourage such positive community engagement. Well done to everyone involved in helping it to happen.”

Andrew Fawcett, chair of the Wells & Mendip Museum trustees, said: “Firstly, I was very impressed by the level of organisation which enabled such a great event to succeed.

“Secondly, it was wonderful to see so many enthusiastic volunteers coming together in promoting the city, and all that it has to offer.”

Another feature of the day was a Drugs Bus parked in Market Place designed to help educate people about substance misuse.

The bus included the dummy of a drug addict that provoked conversations about substance misuse, and a jail cell escape activity that 117 people took part in throughout the day.

The day ended with a lantern parade taking in The Bishop’s Barn, The Bishop’s Palace and Wells Cathedral, featuring about 100 lanterns created at 15 workshops hosted by Somerset Skills and Learning.

PCSO Bev Searle and PC Darren Pearson

The Drugs Bus in Wells Market Place

Wendy and Sally Cooper at Wells Film Centre

The Lantern Parade at The Bishop’s Palace

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March 2019

wellsvoice n NEWS Climate emergency declared SOMERSET County Council has joined local authorities across the country in declaring a climate emergency.

A cross-party initiative proposed by Wells county councillor Tessa Munt and seconded by Cabinet Member David Hall at a full council meeting in February will see county-wide action and £25,000 allocated by the council to fund work on getting a strategy off

21

the ground. Councillors agreed carbon emissions must be cut in Somerset and the council has resolved to work with district councils, business partners, communities and individuals towards carbon neutrality by 2030.

There will be a report to the full council at the end of 2019 detailing actions the authority has and will take to address the emergency.

Women’s Day entertainments WOMEN of Wells have put together an afternoon of entertainments and information for their fifth annual celebration of International Women’s Day. The event will take place at what was once the home of the Blue School for girls in Portway Avenue on Saturday, March 9, from 2pm-4pm.

There will be the exhibition of historical Women of Wells

Wells

curated by the city archivist, Dr Julia Wood, and a performance of Mrs Chicky, a funny but serious playlet about women’s right to vote.

There will be Memory Corner to share memories and school memorabilia, and the now famous Chaps’ Caff – with tea and cake.

It is a free event, with donations welcome.

Historian to share her knowledge HISTORIAN Joanna Cobb will be passing on the fruits of extensive research at the next Talking Film event on Monday, March 11.

She will be discussing All Is

True, a film about the final days of William Shakespeare, at Wells Film Centre before a screening of the film.

Tickets are £10 and can be booked at the film centre.

n FROM THE TOWN HALL A performance by musicians from Wells Blue School

e stall

Edwina Bridgeman of Somerset Art Works with Erin, Ava, Lucca, Sam and Silvie at Wells & Mendip Museum

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The latest news from Wells City Council n The planning committee recommended that Mendip District Council approve Loungers Ltd’s application to change the use of 41 High Street, formerly the Original Factory Shop, from retail to restaurant/ cafe provided the concerns of residents in South Street and Guardhouse Lane are addressed. n The council’s £2,000 award to the Love Musgrove Campaign has helped it reach its £1 million appeal target and the new MRI scanner for Musgrove Park Hospital in Taunton is now ordered. Patients will feel the benefits of shorter waiting periods when it is installed at the end of 2019. n Wells City Band will perform a concert in aid of the Mayor’s two charities, the Wells branch

of St John Ambulance and The Lawrence Centre, on Saturday, March 2, at 7.30pm. Tickets are £5 and include tea, coffee, and homemade cakes in the intermission. They are available from the Town Hall. n The Annual Parish Meeting will take place in the Town Hall on Wednesday, March 13, at 6pm. Residents are invited to hear a report from the Mayor about the city council’s activities in the past year. n Guests from Paray La Monial will visit the city in July to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the French town twinning with Wells. n The distinguished local historian Tony Scrase has been given The Council Award in recognition of his services to the city.

Philip Welch Wells City Councillor

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22

n COMMERCIAL SENSE

March 2019

With Jane Bowe of Probusiness accountants

Take stock of your business as Brexit looms

AS I write this, we are in the midst of the turmoil that is Brexit, and frankly, it’s difficult to know what to do and which way to turn in business.

One thing I am sure of, however, is that there is absolutely no point in panicking, and equally, there is no benefit at all from burying your head in the sand (never mind the fact that it will probably look ever so silly).

Now is the time to check on all aspects of your business, whether it is a limited company, a partnership or you are a sole trader. It is so easy to find any and every excuse (mostly that we are too busy, and more often than not this is true) to avoid digging into our records, but it is crucial.

For example, have you made a target and have you reached it? Are your figures improving year on year, or are they at least at a good level and keeping your income in line with inflation? If

With Brexit taking Britain in a new direction, now is the time to check on all aspects of your business not, now is the time to look at what has been happening and to check how competitive you are in your field.

It’s also vital to know what your costs are, where they come from and to check which have gone up. This gives you the opportunity to see if any can be reduced and if the company can become ‘leaner and fitter’.

Don’t underestimate how

handy it can be to have a business which is ‘small, but perfectly formed’. Your ability to keep charges reasonably low – by which I mean, sensibly low, not so low that you can’t afford to live – can be very important.

However, whatever you do, don’t start quoting prices which mean you would need to operate a job at a loss. This doesn’t make for a good outcome at any level.

Make sure your charges allow you sufficient time to complete a job. I have known overlooking this to cause difficulties for a number of businesses. You simply cannot be in two places at once, no matter how you try to convince yourself and your customers otherwise.

This leads me on to the matter of cashflow. This is crucial. Remember that a client/ customer who orders a lot from you but doesn’t pay is NOT a ‘good customer’ and it simply isn’t fair for you to be fighting off

creditors when you are actually owed enough to keep your affairs in good order.

Running your own small business can be hectic and stressful, so keep your family and friends around you and keep talking. Bottling concerns up is not a good idea. Despite the difficulties though, the life can be hugely rewarding, and it can make getting up in the mornings feel utterly worthwhile.

This is a taster of some of my personal ‘do’s and don’ts’ – they have been formulated over decades of experience which haven’t been without their ups and downs, but I wouldn’t change it.

So, I wish you well in the coming years. We will survive, but we can make sure we survive well – and don’t forget, here in Wells we have a good business community, and I feel sure we will support each other through the turbulence ahead.

C ab ome Ca out M along fe i a n W king to ou rf Ta ells on x Dig ree c h 2 8t i h F tal at at eb L , 10 OAF -12 pm

Choppy waters ahead?

We are in the midst of the turmoil that is Brexit, and frankly, it’s difficult to know what to do and which way to turn. Sometimes just having a friendly ear can help so why not give us a call if you are having any concerns of how the future may effect your business.

To advertise, contact Andy on 01749 675157

01749 677989 ò0 mail@probusinessuk.com Ø m www.probusinessuk.com b i k Ö w

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wellsvoice

March 2019

23

n NEWS Launch of standing exercise class

Nordic Walking is thought to have been started by cross-country skiers

Two new courses on Nordic Walking TWO new courses are starting in Wells in March for people who want to learn Nordic Walking.

Nordic Walking is leisure and fitness walking with poles and is believed to originate from the summer training programmes of cross-country skiers.

A four-session Learn To Nordic Walk course will start on Monday, March 4, and a two-session Fast Track course – suitable for walkers who are already active, mobile and well co-ordinated – on Saturday, March 2. Both will be at The Bishop’s Barn, Wells, from 10.30am.

They will be led by Niels Hak, who had a long career as a doctor in the NHS and is now a self-employed personal trainer and Nordic Walking UK brand ambassador.

“Nordic Walking is a sociable

way to exercise and is suitable for almost everyone,” he said.

“I organise taster sessions and Learn To Nordic Walk courses, and once clients have completed the course they can join our walks around Wells and on the Mendips.

“In fact, they can join walks with Nordic Walking UK instructors throughout the country.”

Niels can organise a conversion course for existing Nordic Walkers who are not familiar with the Nordic Walking UK techniques.

“I also organise weekly free Wellness Walks in Wookey every Wednesday at 11am starting from Wookey Hub,” he said.

To find out more, see the regional website www. somersetnordicwalking.co.uk or call Niels on 07771 533386.

Special offers for salon opening FREE facial peels will be available on the night when a new aesthetic salon opens in Wells.

Salon owner Jacky Edwards, pictured right, will also be providing bubbles, nibbles and goodie bags for all, and there will be a special cake made by well known local cake-maker Zoe Burmester.

Wells pom pom dancer Tina Blackwill will open Revitalise Me at 2 Priory Road when it launches on March 22 at 5pm.

It is a free ticketed event with vouchers available for free jelly

facials plus 10 per cent off all injectables booked on the night, and free facial peels for the first 20 clients to book. Book via the Revitalise Me Facebook page or by calling 07889 947301.

The salon will offer injectables such as Botox and fillers, skin treatments for acne and rosacea, and various laser treatments.

“We’ve also got a massage therapist doing Swedish massage, foot massages and anticellulite massage treatments,” said Jacky.

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A NEW standing only PilogaFit class is starting at the Connect Centre in Wells on March 4.

All the exercises are done while standing, which may help with any mobility issues as there will be no getting down to the floor, though sitting options will also be available.

Class leader John Beasley, who runs a number of Pilogafit and tai chi classes in the Wells area, said: “The new class will make use of Theraband latex free elastic exercise bands. These

therapy bands are often used in rehabilitation and to keep things moving and improving.

“The gentle resistance strengthens the core, spine, hips and shoulders as part of essential exercise.”

The drop-in standing only sessions will take place at the Connect Centre every Monday from March 4, between 12.45pm and 1.45pm.

More details are on the pilogafit.co.uk website or from John by calling 01749 672482.

Clothes and equipment wanted WELLS Refugee Action Group (WRAG) is still collecting donations of winter clothes and equipment at the Wells Town Hall every Friday morning from 10am-11.45am.

Urgently needed for northern France are men’s walking boots/ trainers sizes 40-43, and men’s warm jackets and waterproof coats and trousers, thermal

leggings, vests, jumpers and hoodies, and skinny jeans, in small and medium sizes only.

Clothes need to be clean and with plenty of wear in them.

Also required are sleeping bags and mats, full-sized blankets, tents and tarpaulins.

Deliveries are going to France every two weeks from RAFT in Taunton.

9–30 March Open Tue–Sat 10am–6pm

FIGURES & FACES

www.andelliart.com

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24

March 2019

n NEWS

People the focus of significant exhibition ANDELLI Art, a local art gallery, will hold its most important exhibition to date in March.

Work from a number of highly regarded artists will be displayed in the Figures and Faces show at the gallery in South Horrington.

“We are privileged to have Justin Mortimer, an internationally-renowned artist and former student of Wells Cathedral School, exhibiting in the show, alongside other illustrious names,” said gallery owner Ellie Jones.

Figures and Faces is the third group figurative exhibition

by Andelli Art, showcasing contemporary and 20th century artists’ enduring fascination with the human form. Exhibiting artists include Malcolm Ashman, Michael Ayrton, Steve Burden, Daniel P Carter, Leslie Glenn Dahmus, Kathy Dalwood, Jean Dubuffet, Tracey Emin, Mark Entwisle, Evert Farhm, Michaela

Detail from artworks by Alistair Little, above, and Justin Mortimer, top right, and a picture by Leslie Glenn Dahmus Gall, Jamie Gallagher, Olivia Lomenech Gill, Phil Hale, John Theodore Harrison, Alistair Little, Victor Hume Moody, Justin Mortimer, Constance Parker, Daniel Sequeira, William Strang and Sharn Whitehead.

“The works in the exhibition illustrate a diverse range of styles, mediums and techniques,” said Ellie.

IN AID OF

ST. MARGARET’S HOSPICE Wells Reclamation presents

BRIDGEND MALE CHOIR

“The artists have captured the world as they experience it, some with radically experimental approaches to making portraits.

“It should be a very thoughtprovoking show.”

Figures and Faces will run from March 9-30. The gallery at Mendip House, Upper Breach, is open Tuesday-Saturday, from 10am-6pm.

IN CONCERT

Soloist, Angharad Morgan, Welsh National Opera

St. Cuthbert’s Church, Wells 23rd March @ 7pm Tickets £12 at the door

Also, for Tickets or further information please email:

terena.gill@st-margarets.hospice.org.uk or call 01935 709485

Some of those who took part in an acrylic cockerel painting course at Wells Town Hall show the work they produced. Tutor Gemma Lane said: ‘All of the participants were complete beginners to using acrylic paint and everyone has produced stunning outcomes of a cockerel. They should feel proud of what they have achieved in four weeks.’ Gemma will be running a new acrylic course at the Town Hall, called Save the Bees, from April 24May 22. More details at greenfoxworkshops.com

Bridgend Male Choir awards include Llangollen National Eisteddfod and the Cheltenham Gold Cup Bar available throughout

SPONSORED BY WELLS RECLAMATION A28983 WELLS RECLAMATION Posters.indd 1

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18/02/2019 15:57

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wellsvoice

March 2019

25

n NEWS

Art sale causes stir

Gardens inspire artist’s work

A SURGE of interest has followed the news that an exhibition and sale of Artists Postcards is to be held at the Wells & Mendip Museum.

Dozens of artists have agreed to donate postcard-sized examples of their work including well-known local artists such as Philippa Threlfall, Juliet Piper and Ruth Ames-White.

The organisers are hoping to display over 200 exhibits, including some from local schools, and are offering three cash prizes for the best entries.

“There is a great chance for local art lovers to bag a bargain at this show, as all the items on display will be for sale at £20.

Some internationally-recognised artists are donating work which is worth far more than that,” says Dr Alan Butt Philip, one of the exhibition’s organisers.

Michael Eavis, founder of the Glastonbury Festival, is the lead sponsor of this exhibition

A NEW art exhibition is coming to The Bishop’s Palace at the beginning of March.

Entitled Rejoice, it will comprise a collection of joyful work from Wells-based artist Suzanne Welch.

The show will take place at the exhibition space inside the Palace and will celebrate the beauty of The Bishop’s Palace Gardens, where Suzanne has spent many hours studying the colours and patterns of nature and will act as a mirror to some of the views on show outside the Palace.

Suzanne said: “It is within the Palace Gardens that the peaceful spirituality of nature, assisted by the caring dedication and hard work of the gardeners and volunteers, provides us with a place of tranquil reflection and joy. It is a place I love, and it has inspired this exhibition of my work.”

Suzanne’s artwork draws

Rebecca Barnard with her proposed exhibit and will be formally opening the show at a preview on March 18.

The exhibition will then be open to the public from March 19-23.

All profits will help pay for the new development work at St Thomas’ Church. Further details about submitting work are available from Dr Alan Butt Philip (alanbuttphilip@ googlemail.com).

The deadline for receiving artwork is March 14. Admission to the exhibition is free.

Work by Suzanne Welch will be on display at The Bishop’s Palace from March 3 to May 5 inspiration from the colours of nature and celebrates the freedom and vibrancy of the changing seasons.

Her paintings have sold to art collectors internationally.

The exhibition will run from March 3 to May 5.

Explorer Pianist Horse Rider SOPHIE, AGE 8

Millfield Prep and Millfield Pre-Prep’s next Open Day is Saturday 4 May

millfieldschool.com/mymillfield Got News? Call 07906 499655

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26

March 2019

n NEWS Garden given helping hand

Tincknell Fuels staff celebrate their fundraising achievement

Funds mount up for charity STAFF at Tincknell Fuels have helped to raise £2,100 including a sizeable contribution from the company for the British Heart Foundation (BHF) after a month-long fundraising campaign.

Employees at Tincknell Fuels, which delivers fuel and provides heating services to commercial and domestic premises, took part in a variety of activities including

bingo, bake sale, and a virtual mountain climbing challenge.

Shirley Tincknell, the company’s administration office manager, said: “Everyone had a step counter and we were able to see how that translated to climbing different mountains.

“Most of us were pleased with getting up Mount Snowden, but one member of staff, Liz, managed to complete more than

800,000 steps, compared to an average of 30,000 for most. That was enough to scale Olympus Mons, a mountain on the planet Mars that is twice as tall as Everest. We also had managers making tea and coffee with staff having to make a donation. It was a bit of fun and everyone really embraced the challenge.

“We all know someone who has been affected by a heart condition, so it was especially pleasing to be able to help the BHF fund research that can find new cures and treatments.”

Victoria Carswell, fundraising manager for the BHF, said: “We’re so grateful to Tincknell Fuels for raising such an incredible sum. Their incredible energy and enthusiasm is helping to power our lifesaving research and beat heartbreak forever.”

A CHURCH garden will be blooming this spring thanks to support from a housebuilder.

Bovis Homes has given £200 to St Mary Magdalene Church in Wookey Hole to help transform its outside space into a community garden.

“The idea of having an outdoor space in the village suitable for meeting, relaxing, playing, picnicking and reflecting has been around for many years,” said Julia Scarth, community garden co-ordinator.

“Thanks to lots of support and encouragement from the people of Wookey Hole, the church, the parish council and firms such as Bovis Homes, the idea is now becoming a reality.”

The garden has undergone major tree surgery to open up the area. It has been filled with 5,000 bulbs, planted by volunteers, and there are plans to implement ramped access, new seating areas and a play space.

“We are delighted to support the community garden and we’re looking forward to seeing it come alive as the flowers start to come out,” said Bovis Homes regional sales and marketing director, Emma Smith.

Bovis Homes is building new homes at Priory Fields, between Wookey Hole and Wells. The first new residents should be moving in later this year.

Pair pleased with Bill’s progress

MAY 24 - 26 2019

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TWO Wells councillors have welcomed the progress of Somerton and Frome MP David Warburton’s Private Members’ Bill to help secure the future of Somerset Rivers Authority.

The Bill passed its Second Reading stage unopposed after an hour-long debate in the House of Commons. If it makes it all the way through the House of Commons and House of Lords, there would then be a public consultation across Somerset, after which the SRA could be firmly established in law as a Flood Risk Management Authority and would be able to raise funds for its work through a precept.

Councillor John Osman, chairman of Somerset Rivers Authority, said: “I’m delighted

to see the Rivers Authorities and Land Drainage Bill making progress. Somerset Rivers Authority is doing a great deal of extra work to tackle flooding problems across Somerset, but legislation is needed to secure its long-term future.”

Councillor Roy Mackenzie said: “As a member of the Axe/ Brue Drainage Board, and of the Scrutiny Panel of the SRA, I am glad that this Bill is progressing.

“Of course much of the major work on flood prevention is on or near the moors and levels. I also have an interest in raising awareness of flash flooding/rapid run off in the hills and valleys.

This is less frequent but can be very serious. I am raising this at the Mendip Parish Forum on February 28.”

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wellsvoice

March 2019

27

n NEWS

Awards showcase for Mendip businesses WELLS business owners can enter their business into one of 11 categories to be in with a chance of winning at the fifth annual Mendip Business Awards.

The awards are held to recognise and celebrate some of the 5,755 independent and vibrant businesses based in Mendip Councillor Tom Killen, deputy leader of Mendip District Council, said: “Now in the fifth year, the Mendip Business Awards demonstrate the wealth of local talent in our business community. We are proud to deliver the awards, giving organisations across the district a chance to showcase excellence.

“It’s great to see organisations of all sizes enter the awards, but in particular we are always keen to hear from smaller businesses who often

Guests at last year’s awards ceremony do not get the recognition which they deserve.”

This year’s awards have a category for every type of business, including a new category called ‘Market Trader of the Year’. This award celebrates the art of market trading in Mendip towns throughout 2018.

The closing date for entries is March 29, and winners will be announced during the evening

celebrations at the Royal Bath & West Showground on May 30.

Categories open to all Mendip businesses include: n Community Enterprise of the Year (sponsored by Aster Group) n Retail/ Hospitality Business of the Year (sponsored by Kilver Court Designer Village) n Apprentice of the Year (sponsored by Strode College) n Customer Services Excellence

(sponsored by 3 Solutions Ltd) n Taste of Mendip (sponsored by Old Mill) n Family Business of the Year (sponsored by Wainwright) n International Business of the Year (sponsored by Swan Hotel, Wells) n New Business of the Year (sponsored by Killens) n Small Business of the Year (sponsored by Burton Sweet) n Business of the Year (sponsored by NFU Mutual, Wells) n Market Trader of the Year (sponsored by Mendip District Council) Wells Voice finished in the top three last year in the New Business of the Year category.

This year’s sponsors are Clarks Village, The Royal Bath & West Show and Mendip District Council.

For more information about entering the awards, see www. mendipbusinessawards.co.uk.

Millfield Minis

Parent and Toddler Group Millfield Minis is a fun and popular parent and toddler group for children aged 1-3 years. The clubs are held at Millfield Pre-Prep, Glastonbury, Mondays to Fridays, 10-11.30am during term time.

Children enjoy a variety of activities, including: • Forest School

• Creative Craft Sessions

• Gym

• Visits to our Shetland Ponies

• Outdoor Play • Swimming

• Sensory Play

• Trampolining

With access to specialist facilities and equipment, Millfield Minis is run by friendly, qualified staff and provides exciting activities for children in the local community.

Book now at millfieldschool.com/minis Got News? Call 07906 499655

Email: news@wellsvoice.co.uk

wellsvoice

28

March 2019

n ON THE BEAT

Steps that can help children stay safe online News from the local policing team with PCSO Donna President FOLLOWING on from E Safety Day on February 5, I know that children love using technology and learning to navigate websites, online games and consoles and touch screens like iPads and smart phones.

I would like to remind you about the best ways to keep yourselves safe online.

Parents can use parent controls and use privacy settings.

I have ordered copies of Digital Parenting – if you would like a copy, come and collect one from Wells Police Station.

Make sure your child knows to NEVER go alone to meet someone they have met online and NEVER reveal any personal contact details.

Remember everyone you meet online is a stranger, even if they might seem like a friend.

Always use a nickname when you log on and never give out any personal details that would allow someone you meet online to contact you. That means full name, home or school address, telephone number, personal email or mobile number. Change your passwords on a regular basis.

I also would just like to remind you that this also means with calls made on telephones, not to ever give out personal information.

Try to have online conversations in public. People

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are less likely to hassle you if they know you are with other people.

Accepting emails or opening files from people you don’t really know can get you into trouble. They may contain viruses, nasty messages or annoying links to stuff you don’t want to see.

Talk to an adult you know well and ask for help if you’re worried or upset about anything you’ve seen or been sent online. This can be reported to police or to any of the useful links.

Useful links n www.childnet.com n www.saferinternet.org.uk n www.ceop.gov.uk n www.thinkuknow.co.uk n www.childline.org.uk call 0800 1111 n Help@nspcc.org.uk call 0808 800 5000 What is sexting?

Sexting is when someone sends or receives a sexually explicit text, image or video on their mobile phone, computer or tablet. It can include sexual chat requests for images of a sexual nature, it is a growing trend amongst young people and is also used by sexual predators when they are grooming child victims.

Is it illegal?

This depends on what the image is or what the chat involves and who it is sent between. However it is a crime to possess, take, make, distribute or show anyone an indecent image of a child or young person under the age of 18 years old.

You may commit an offence for making and possessing the image. If that image is taken by a child who then sends the image to another person, then the child has committed a further offence of distributing the image and the person that receives the image could also be liable for an offence of possessing the image.

If you think you are being or have been exploited via the internet or are in any doubt you should always contact your local police on 101 for guidance, help and advice. Please don’t keep this to yourself and seek help from us or a teacher or parent, we are here to protect against any exploitation.

Hollie Guard personal safety app Hollie Guard can help you stay safe and is free to use on smartphones. Download now.

In danger? A simple shake or tap activates Hollie Guard, automatically sending your location and audio/video evidence to your designated contacts. Which also can help police with any evidence. https://hollieguard.com Register the app online.

Policing part of council tax to rise AVON and Somerset’s Police and Crime Panel has approved Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) Sue Mountstevens’ plans to raise £15 million to manage cost pressures and generate some additional funds for investment by raising the policing part of the council tax by £2 a month for a band D property.

It follows an announcement by the government in December allowing police and crime commissioners to increase the policing part of the council tax from £12 to £24 a year for the average (band D) household.

The PCC said: “I fully understand that this is a big

increase for households. It was not an easy decision. However I have to balance the challenges facing policing; the increased threat from criminality and the safety of residents.

“I want local people to see and feel a difference in the Constabulary’s fight against crime. Just like last year we will continue to protect neighbourhood policing, the very ‘eyes and ears’ of our communities, and invest in additional officers for the first time in over a decade.

“This money will not fix everything but it’s a big step in the right direction.”

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March 2019

29

n NEWS

Leading universities keen to take school’s students FIVE final year pupils at Wells Cathedral School have received offers from Cambridge University to continue with their studies.

Flora Cooknell has an offer to read Human, Social and Political Sciences (HSPS) at Clare College; Bruce Fang, an offer to read Music at Magdalene College; Susanna Mackay, an offer to read English at Trinity College; whilst Jane Lee and Sam Pritchard have offers to read Music and Medicine, respectively, at Gonville and Caius College.

Pupils have, to date, received

over 130 offers from Russell Group universities.

School musicians have received a significant number of offers and scholarships from UK music colleges to continue with their instrumental studies, with 61 offers, including 36 significant financial scholarships, from prestigious conservatoires.

Headmaster, Alastair Tighe, said: “It is wonderful to be able to celebrate the significant successes of so many of our pupils. I wish all pupils the very best now as they prepare for their upcoming A-level exams.”

Students who have received offers from Cambridge University

Look down and discover a new world Andrew Chamberlain explains why he is so fond of beetles IN the countryside, at this time of year, it is easy to be entranced by the flowers, trees and the landscape in general. Easily seen are the bright green fresh beech leaves and the foaming white hedgerows of blackthorn.

However, for me, looking a little closer, and thinking a lot smaller, opens up a whole new world to anyone who takes the time to stop and look down.

I have always had a fascination with the microlandscape and its inhabitants, especially the array of beetles to be found. These are now emerging from underground chambers or the rotting trees where they have spent the winter months and, in some cases, the last few years.

A Bloody Nose Beetle If you look closely at the rough grasslands found on the Mendip plateau, then you will find many of Britain’s most interesting beetles. The large (and now endangered) Oil Beetle – so named because of its iridescent black body reflecting light as if in an oil slick – the bright red Cardinal Beetle and the voracious predator that is 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

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Got News? Call 07906 499655

Violet Ground Beetle, described to children with whom I’m working as the lion of the leaf litter due to its strength, speed and efficiency, dispatching its unsuspecting victims with its amazingly powerful mandibles.

My favourite by far is the interestingly named Bloody Nose Beetle. This bumbling little herbivore may only be a couple of centimetres long but oozes with character. Its wing cases are fused into an armoured shelllike, fine matt black lacquer. Its feathery little yellow-soled feet and its little knobbly antennae are constantly moving, taking in the world around.

Like every animal, it has a means of self-defence, and this is where the name comes from.

If it feels threatened, it will ooze a stinking red substance from glands on its leg, giving

the impression of bleeding and being dead, therefore not very nice to eat. I’m not sure how effective this defence is, but when examining owl pellets and the like, we find very few remains of these beetles whilst the poor dung beetle seems to be unfortunately common.

I know some people may struggle with the thought, but I genuinely find these characterful and endearing. Some go for kittens, but I’d choose a beetle any day.

So, next time you’re out walking, take a glance downwards, and a whole new world will open up in front of your eyes. Just be careful not to step on your new friends. n Read more from Andrew at www.andrewchamberlain.co.uk or find him on Instagram at @andyc74

WANTED

All Old / Vintage Fishing Tackle Reels, Rods, Cased Fish, Angling Books Collector pays cash. Will collect

Call Nigel on 01934 520543 or email nigel164townsend@btinternet.com

Email: news@wellsvoice.co.uk

wellsvoice

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March 2019

n AROUND THE SOCIETIES WELLS WI OUR stall at the hugely successful Wake Up Wells event in Wells Cathedral generated lots of interest and conversations, and many people took away copies of our 2019 programme.

Forty-four members enjoyed a New Year dinner at the Courtyard Cafe.

The last voting slips were collected for this year’s shortlisted resolutions. We now wait to hear which gained most support across the country and could be adopted as a national campaign.

In club news: our crack skittles team triumphed again, winning a place in the fourth round of the Somerset Federation Tournament; the crafters invited people to bring their unfinished sewing and knitting projects to their next gathering; and there may be enough keen cooks to start a second group of the gourmet club who take it in turns to host and share the cooking of a themed dinner, which so far has included Persian and Far Eastern feasts.

Our speaker was dentist Sue

President Robin Dow and vice chairman Tim Bickerdike pictured at the first Royal British Legion and Veterans Breakfast Club. The club meets on the last Saturday of the month at 10am at The Venue. To book in or for more information email wellsrblsecretary@aol.co.uk or call 07497 465118.

Reece who told us about her work for Bridge to Aid, a charity that teaches basic dentistry to health workers in rural

Demolition, excavation, Plant Hire anD SuPPlierS of aggregateS & toPSoil

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Tanzania. Although the World Health Organisation considers lack of access to healthcare the worst inequality, over 70 per cent of the world’s population still has no access to dentistry.

In Tanzania there is only one dentist per 110,000 people, compared to one per 2,000 in the UK. Tanzanians have always chewed sugar cane, but sugary drinks and sweets are increasing rates of tooth decay. People chew a stick called a mwasaki to clean their teeth but can only ask witch doctors for herbal remedies if they get toothache.

Pain caused by bad teeth can make eating and speaking difficult, so the charity makes a real impact on people’s quality of life. Sue described how a team of dentists travel to remote areas where they live in primitive conditions for two weeks while they offer a clinic.

Members found learning about Sue’s work fascinating and donated the proceeds from the evening’s bring and buy sale of unwanted Christmas gifts to Bridge to Aid. The next meeting will be on Tuesday, March 5, at 7.30pm at the Wells & Mendip Museum.

New women are always welcome at Wells WI and can attend as guests before deciding whether to join. More details are on our Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/ Wellssomersetwi/ Veronica Howe WELLS FLORAL ART

excavation Demolition anD aSbeStoS removal

A PRESENTATION by Tina Parkes entitled Botanical Sources of Inspiration in Spring will take place on Tuesday, March 12, and the practice class is on Tuesday, March 26. Both will be at St Thomas’ Church Hall from 2pm.

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WELLS Fountain Poets meet on the first Monday of each month at The Venue in South Street at 8pm.

The guest on March 4 will be Clare Blackmore, who has recently published a book of the complete works of William Catcott, the Baker Bard of Wells.

She writes: “William was born in West Horrington but lived and worked as a baker in Tor Street in Wells. As he

worked and pushed his bread cart around the streets of Wells and surrounding villages to sell his bread, he wrote poetry based on the nature, people and social conditions that he saw in midVictorian Wells. I have found over 120 of his beautiful poems.”

For more information, ring Ama on 01749 672911 or have a look at https:// wellsfountainpoets.wordpress. com/about/ WELLS & DISTRICT GARDENING CLUB EVEN to those folk who have never grown a sprig of this plant it is still perfectly familiar in its fragrance and colour, present everywhere from supermarket shelves to cottage-style gift shops, from soaps and candles to cleaners and after-shave.

Probably the herb with the widest appeal, lavender has been a favourite from ancient days.

Basically a Mediterranean plant brought over here in Roman times – the poet Virgil extolled its virtues as an attracter for bees – it has spread throughout the world. Stunning fields of lavender blue are no longer confined solely to the South of France. A few miles south of Bath, Judith Green of Somerset Lavender Farm is continuing the tradition of growing this wonderful herb for its multiple uses. At Horsepond Farm, Faulkland, you can see fields to rival those in Provence.

On Thursday, March 14, Judith is guest speaker at Wells Gardening Club in Wells Town Hall at 7.30pm.

Everyone is welcome and there will be chances to reserve places on a number of summer excursions to various lovely gardens such as Heale House, Painswick Rococco and Waterperry.

Visitors £3, refreshments and possibly plants for sale. For more details, call 01749 69182.

Pip Harwood

Somerset Lavender Farm

Email: sales@wellsvoice.co.uk

wellsvoice

March 2019

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n NEWS IN BRIEF MP giving speech LABOUR’S Shadow Secretary of State for Environment, Food, and Rural Affairs, Sue Hayman MP, will be speaking at a Wells Labour Rural Affairs event in Wells Town Hall on Saturday, March 9, at 2.30pm for 3pm.

This will be followed by a 90-minutes Q&A with Sue, Jyoti Fernandes of The Landworkers Alliance and G Paul Turner, Wells CLP rural affairs officer.

Seats can be reserved for farmers and agri-food business if requested. Contact G Paul Turner at WellsCLPRural@ gmail.com or 07969 621779.

Change welcomed HOME Secretary Sajid Javid has announced that the Government will change the law to accelerate the process for moving on illegal traveller encampments, something Wells MP James

Heappey has been campaigning for since his election in 2015.

“Illegal encampments have angered thousands of constituents and cost our local councils hundreds of thousands of pounds. I hope these law changes can be enacted quickly so people can see the benefit on the ground,” said Mr Heappey.

Art event invitation SOMERSET Art Works is inviting registrations from artists, galleries and arts organisations to take part in this year’s silver anniversary Somerset Art Weeks Festival.

The event will run from September 21 to October 6.

Registration is open until March 31 at somersetartworks.org.uk

Spring market CROSCOMBE Spring Market will take place in the village

hall on Saturday, March 9, from 10am-2pm. Local artisan produce will be on sale including honey, cheese, meat, cakes and bakes, preserves, crafts, gifts, and books, plus homemade lunches, tea and cakes, a tombola and an Easter egg hunt.

If anyone would like a stall, or for more information, contact Mary Cadogan, 01749 572875 or marylucia.cadogan@gmail.com

YMCA fundraiser YMCA Mendip & South Somerset is calling on people to sleep rough for one night and raise money to help change the lives of vulnerable young people. The Sleep Easy event will take place at Frome Youth & Community Centre on Saturday, March 16, from 7pm until 7am the following day. Registration costs £10 and participants are then asked to gain sponsorship. More at www.mendipymca.org.uk or by calling 01749 679553.

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Open afternoon WELLS Cathedral School is holding a pre-prep open afternoon with sparkles and slime on Wednesday, March 27, from 1pm-3pm. Parents are invited to go along and see what the school offers children aged two to seven, and youngsters who attend with them will have the chance to create slime, make wishes with fairy dust and paint with glittery glue. Attendance must be confirmed by calling 01749 834441 or emailing admissions@wells.cathedral. school

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Email: news@wellsvoice.co.uk

wellsvoice

32

n THE PROPERTY MARKET

March 2019

With Roderick Thomas of Roderick Thomas Ltd

Solid investment in a turbulent world THE saga continues! Brexit or no Brexit!

Looking back over the last few months I see I’ve been harping on about Brexit and the politics of our day.

More developments as I write this today and you couldn’t make it up – a bunch of MPs leaving the Labour Party and which will cause a little more chaos.

Meanwhile Mrs May,

depending upon your viewpoint, is either doing very little or working hard in the shadows.

What a great time to be a political pundit.

From the poor estate agent’s view, the market is remarkably good. We’ve achieved some excellent sales in the last few weeks and more owners are saying they want to get on and sell.

We’ve just listed one excellent property being an Old Mill House in Stoke St Michael. It’s a great house with bags of character and still has the mill stream. One great feature is the superb kitchen/ dining room which is two-storey in part with a galleried hall. It stands in about an acre in a very quiet setting on the edge of the village.

At £750,000 it’s great value.

Life goes on!

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

The Old Mill House in Stoke St Michael is a great house with bags of character and still has the mill stream

To advertise, contact Andy on 01749 675157

Email: sales@wellsvoice.co.uk

Wells 01749 671020

Lettings 01458 844199

Glastonbury 01458 833123

New Instruction

£469,950 Henton Offers in the region of £1,095,000 Westbury-sub-Mendip 23

42

55

CC

(Predicted)

AAgrand design in the countrysideextended with far-reaching views detached house thatSomerset has been extensively and refurbished and the opportunity to have input in the final and finish of this by the present owners in recent years and design now offers a wonderful exciting and unique 21st century home. Built frame family home in excellent order throughout.

Setwithin on a the corner plotofin aa modern barn witharea a 54’within (16.5m) height living room/kitchen quiet residential thisdouble popular and well served village onand the set in a plot acre with the River Axe running through it, this will be foothills of of thec.1 Mendips.

Garden, parking and scope for a garage (stpp). aExcellent sleek andviews glamorous unlike of the home Mendip Hills.any other in the area.

01749 671020 671020 01749

Street 01458 841411

New Instruction

Wells Wells 31

Guide Guide Price Price £525,000 £240,000 2 1

42

easy bungalow reach of the cityincentre, thisthe splendid, AWithin detached built 1985 by currentdetached owner in bungalow a tucked was built in 1992 andpopular is set inBath a quiet culside de sac off Wookey Road. position on the Road of the city. SetHole in a good away The property offered forall sale with and no onward and(asenjoys sized, level plotiswith garden around plenty ofchain parking well asa facing, garden twoand double bedrooms with builtasouth-west double garage), thewalled property offersand flexible spacious accommodation in storage, in addition to a garage off road parking.Gas Double with four double bedrooms.

Doubleand glazed throughout. fired glazing. central Gas firedOffered central for heating. heating. sale with no onward chain.

01749 01749 671020 671020

New Instruction

South Wells Horrington 21

£142,500 £270,000 11

22

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AAwell floor flatainsoutherly this popular development on the semipresented detachedground bungalow with aspect and a particularly edge of Wells 60 converted from a Grade II Listed former Victorian hospital. fine, mature ft garden to the rear. The property has been adapted so Set the ground floor ofhas thebecome buildingaand with a communal hallway thatonthe second bedroom dining room opening from the shared flateasily above. park-like communal grounds sitting with roomjust (thisthe could beEnjoying re-instated if required).

A conservatory as as added residents’ andrear visitors’ parking.

Offered forlovely sale with no haswell been to the to take advantage of the garden. onward chain. Ideal first timeinpurchase or investment.

A well presented bungalow a very popular area.

01749 01749 671020 671020

sales

lettings

2/814. H&O Wells Voice Advert 180x250mm_NOV18.indd 1

CD

To Rent

Wells Wells Central 12

TO LET

3 1

£1,400 pcm £695 pcm 24

CB

An immaculate, fully furnished, detached house situated on cottage this new in the heart of Wells, this delightful two bedroom Situated development the outskirts Wells.

The spacious accommodation has gas fired on central heatingof and a small patio garden to the rear.is tastefully furnished.

All four bedrooms are doubles and the Available now. Unfurnished.

All tenants are required to rear paygarden £150 is private and Available end March. No pets. fee All tenants (inclusive of enclosed.

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hollandandodam.co.uk 12/10/2018 16:13

wellsvoice

34

March 2019

n WHAT’S ON March 2 n Vintage Somerset Fair, Wells Town Hall, 9.30am-4pm. Vintage clothes, vinyl, gifts, accessories, jewellery, toys, books, collectables, kitchenalia and more. Entry £1, 50p for students, under 16s free. n Mayor’s Charity Concert, Wells Town Hall, 7.30pm. Tickets £5, available from Reception or on the door. n Mouse Racing night, Mendip Shooting Ground, BA5 3EH, 7.30pm, to raise funds for Horrington Cricket Club.

Tickets £10 each, available from Horringtoncc@hotmail.com or 01749 676733. n Wells Men’s Breakfast, Connect Centre, 8am. Pete Chaplin will talk about his life as a police dog handler. Men of all ages welcome to a full English breakfast before the talk.

March 6 n Until March 9. The Opposite Sex, Wells Little Theatre, 7.30pm.

March 8 n Toe Jam Roller Disco, Wells Sports Centre, Charter Way, 6.30pm-8pm. Skates/kit provided, £5, or bring your own. All ages and abilities welcome.

March 10 n The Jamestown Brothers, The Venue, South Street, 7pm.

March 11 n Tai Chi for Health free taster session, Wells Library, 11.30am12.15pm.

March 12 n Wells Circle Dance, Methodist Church Hall, Southover, 7pm8.45pm (new earlier start time). £4 a session. No experience or partner needed. Traditional and choreographed circle dances to a wide range of music. Ffi: Rowena 01749 679300, revrowenafrancis@ gmail.com March 13 n Action on Hearing Loss fiveminute free hearing assessment, Wells Library, 9.30am-12pm. No appointment needed. n Wells Board Game Group, Cheese Yard Cafe, West Horrington, 7pm-9.30pm. n Delivering Hope: a talk by Joanna Tom-Kargbo, a health worker from Sierra Leone, St Thomas’ Church, Wells, 4pm-6pm.

Organised by Wells Christian Aid in preparation for Christian Aid Week 2019. Ffi: Rowena 01849 679300, revrowenafrancis@gmail.com n Henton & District WI, Henton

Village Hall, 7.30pm. Talk by Mike Bolton: A Trip up the Panama Canal. Raffle, refreshments and a warm welcome await.

March 17 n Rare Plant Fair, The Bishop’s Palace, 10am-4pm.

March 20 n Henton & District Gardening Club, Henton Village Hall, 7.30pm.

Alan Power, garden and estate manager, will give an illustrated talk on Gardens of Stourhead.

Visitors welcome. Ffi: 01749 672084.

March 21 n New lecture by art historian Joanna Cobb MA in the series Art and Artifice in Tudor England, Seager Hall, Wells, 2pm-4pm.

Tickets £10 per person/£18 for two people to include refreshments and handouts. To book contact Joanna, 01458 832178, ericjoanna@waitrose.com, or go along on the day. All welcome. n Globe CC Quiz Night, Wells FC, 7.30pm start. £10 per table of 4-6.

Call 07708 148502 to book.

March 23 n Annual Spring Craft Fair, Wells Town Hall. Admission free.

March 25 n Tai Chi for Health free taster session, Wells Library, 11.30am12.15pm.

March 26 n Somerset Wildlife Trust: The Strawberry Line – Multi-user Path – Creation and Conservation, Wells & Mendip Museum, 7.30pm. Booking not required. Call 01749 677600 for more information. Members £3 / non-members £3.50.

March 27 n Wells Board Game Group, Cheese Yard Cafe, West Horrington, 7pm-9.30pm.

March 29 n Quiz Night, Wells Golf Club,

Coffee/Tea, Cake and a Chat An opportunity to explore life in Christian faith in a friendly and informal environment An Alpha session includes refreshments, a short video and a chance to share thoughts, if you wish.

Tuesdays from 26 March 7.00pm - 8.30pm at the Connect Centre, Portway, Wells BA5 2BE

To advertise, contact Andy on 01749 675157

7.30pm. Teams of four to six, £8 per person including food. Booking essential. Call 01749 675005 or email secretary@wellsgolfclub. co.uk n Ceilidh with One Step Ceilidh band, Dinder Village Hall, 7.30pm10.30pm. Tickets are limited and include dance and buffet, £12.

Bar open. Book via Gill on 01749 689112 or Margaret on 01749 674943.

REGULAR EVENTS Every Monday 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. n Zen meditation, The Drawing Room, 4 Heritage Courtyard, Sadler Street, 7.45pm. Drop in. Suggested donation £5. Mats and cushions provided. Tel: Paul 01749 670193.

Every Tuesday n Soda Art Group, 1.30pm-3.30pm, Learning and Skills Centre, Portway.

Special welcome for people with a disability. Tutorials, chances to exhibit, and expeditions out for workshops. More from 01749 673755 or 673334. n Wells Good Afternoon Choir, Seager Hall, Wells, 2pm-4pm.

‘Singing in the Afternoon’ with Grenville Jones. Everyone welcome. gac@grenvillemusic.co.uk n Latin-based cardio dance exercise, Wells Cathedral School dance studio, 6.45pm-7.45pm. Tel Jacqui 07870 544551 or just turn up. 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), 7.30pm to 8.30pm, Wookey Primary School hall, no auditions, singing for fun, £4pw. Contact wookey.choirworks@gmail.com n Pilates mat class 9.15am, Wells Town Hall. First class free. Prebooking essential: zest2zen@gmail. com, 07946 310877. n Life Drawing, The Drawing Room, 4 Heritage Courtyard, Sadler Street, 7pm-9.15pm. Tutored class with life models, £12 inc tea. Tel Molly 07793 387848 or Paul 07918 731137.

Every Wednesday n Wells Market, Market Place, 9am-4pm.

n Wells Bridge Club: Rubber Bridge, St Thomas’ Church Hall, 1.45pm-5pm. Improvers and experienced players welcome, contact 01749 939515 or 01749 674729. n Wells Table Tennis Club, Seager Hall, Union Street, 6.30pm-9pm. n Wells Kettlercise, Town Hall, Market Place, 6pm. First class free.

Pre-booking essential. Contact Sally Ann Frampton, zest2zen@ gmail.com, 07946 310877. n Pilates class, Wells Town Hall, Market Place, 7.15pm. First class free. Pre-booking essential: zest2zen@gmail.com, 07946 310877. n Wells Folk Dance Club, Dinder Village Hall, 7.30pm-9.30pm.

Every Thursday n Knitting and Natter, Wells Library, 1.30pm-3.30pm. Learn knitting, crochet and cross-stitch.

Open to men and women, no need to book. n Tai Chi For Health & Vitality, Westbury Village Hall, 12-1pm. Any age or ability. Drop in, pay as you go, £5. 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/ n Irish Set Dancing, Dinder Village Hall, BA5 3PF, 8pm-10pm, £3. For more details call 01458 210051.

Every Friday n Wells Country Market, Seager Hall, Union Street, 10am-noon. All home-cooked food plus craft and produce table. n Live music, The City Arms, High Street, 8.30pm. n Wells Refugee Aid collection at Wells Town Hall, 10am-11.45am.

Collecting donations in Wells for refugees around the world, distribution via RAFT in Taunton.

Quality warm clothes, waterproof shoes, blankets and sleeping bags always needed. n Pilates class, Wells Town Hall, Market Place, 9.45am; and seated and standing Pilates class for older adults, 11am. First class free. Prebooking essential: zest2zen@gmail. com, 07946 310877. 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. n Wells and Wookey Scottish Dancers, Wookey Village Hall, 7.15pm-9.45pm. All abilities

Email: sales@wellsvoice.co.uk

wellsvoice

March 2019

35

n WHAT’S ON PILOGAFIT Pilates Yoga Fitness Fusion for Spine & Core Stability SS&L Building, Portway Avenue, Wells Free Parking Fridays 12.15 - 1.15pm St Thomas Church Hall Wednesdays 5.30 - 6.30pm Drop in - Pay as you go - £5 John Beasley 01749 672482 www.pilogafit.co.uk www.taichi24.co.uk

PILOGAFIT – STANDING Additional exercise class Connect Centre, Wells Mondays 12.45 - 1.45pm Details as above welcome. For more information call 01749 672672 (all day), 01749 677548 (daytime), 01749 672805 (evening) or go to wellsscottishdancers.btck.co.uk 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. n Wells Market, Market Place, 9am-4pm.

Every Sunday n Zen meditation, The Drawing Room, 4 Heritage Courtyard, Sadler Street, 7.15am for 7.30am. Drop in.

Suggested donation £5. Mats and cushions provided. Tel: Paul 01749 670193.

First Sunday of each month n Irish Set Dancing at Dinder Village Hall, BA5 3PF. Workshop 11am-1pm, £3. Bring and share lunch 1pm-2pm. Ceili 2pm-5pm, £3. For more details, call 01458 210051.

First Monday of each month n Wells Fountain Poets meet upstairs at The Venue, 42 South Street, Wells, 7.45pm for 8pm.

First Tuesday of each month n Wells Carers Group, Wells Fire Station Community Room,

DISABLED ACCESS IN ALL 3 SCREENS

10.30am-noon. n Wells WI, Wells & Mendip Museum. Start 7.30pm. Visitors welcome.

First Thursday of each month n Wells Bipolar UK Support Group, East Room, Wells Town Hall, 7.30pm-9.30pm. Confidential, informal, drop-in basis. Open to all individuals affected by bipolar disorder, including family members and friends.

Second Tuesday of each month n Wells Writers Group, The Globe Inn, Priest Row, 7pm.

Second Wednesday of each month n Wells Civic Society meets at Wells & Mendip Museum at 7.30pm for interesting and entertaining talks.

Refreshments served and guests welcome. wellscivicsociety.org.uk Third Friday of each month n Goldies Sing&Smile in Wells, Elim Connect Centre, Portway, 1.30pm2.30pm. We’re not a choir but we love music. We sing along to popular hits of the Fifties onwards and socialise together. £2 donation requested.

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

Third Saturday of each month n Knitting lessons for children, Wells Library, 11am-1pm.

Equipment supplied. Booking required: 0300 123 2224.

Third Sunday of each month n Gorgons Carnival Club quiz, Britannia Inn, Bath Road, Wells.

Quiz starts at 7.30pm, teams of up to four people, £2 a player. There is also a raffle. More information from Shelly Ford on GorgonsCC@aol. com or 07894 078999.

Last Monday of each month n Mid-Somerset Amateur Radio Club meets at the Quarter Jack, Wells, for an informal social get-together at 2pm. Coffee etc available. (No meetings on bank holidays.)

First and third Mondays n ‘Clickety Click’ knitting group, Wells Methodist Church Hall, Southover, 10am-noon.

First, third (and fifth) Wednesdays n Open Mic Night, The Full Moon, Southover, Wells, 8pm. n Email brief details of events to news@wellsvoice.co.uk

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Got News? Call 07906 499655

Email: news@wellsvoice.co.uk

wellsvoice

36

March 2019

n TAKE A BREAK Countries

I Y N N I J E C L H G R A A A G U A M

A P G I I N C O J R U C U B A I R S B

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Q C S W E D E N F G U A D E L O U P E

This month: The Human Body

Malta The numbers point you toTurkey the letters on a phone keypad Mexico 2 3 Across DownUruguay 1

Oman

F F Y E M E N B B O S N I A D T V L S

1 447USA (3) 2 28842537 Vanuatu(8) 4 27246 (5) Wales 6 58647 (5) Yemen 7 7246 (4) Zaire 9 327 (3)

5

7

The solution is below – but no peeking until you have had a go!

© www.123rf.com/profile_zakowski

SUDOKU

4

8

9

3 1

Zimbabwe

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

SOLUTIONS

2

6

Peru 2 Qatar is A, B or C 3 is D, E or F 4 Senegal is G, H or I 5 Serbia is J, K, or L

EASY for children

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

10 11

4

WORDSEARCH

V C E A I S R A E L U N O T I Y T A I

SPOT THE DIFFERENCE

T B P B C H I N A A R A Y G L R N U Z

Albania, Algeria, Angola, Aruba, Belize, Benin, Bosnia, Brazil, Chad, Chile, China, Croatia, Cuba, Cyprus, Egypt, Fiji, Gabon, Georgia, Germany, Ghana, Grenada, Guadeloupe, Guam, Guinea, Honduras, Hungary, Iran, Iraq, Israel, Japan, Jordan, Kenya, Laos, Latvia, Lebanon, Libya, Malawi, Mali, Malta, Mexico, Monaco, Nauru, Nepal, Niger, Oman, Panama, Peru, Qatar, Senegal, Serbia, Spain, Sweden, Syria, Taiwan, Togo, Tonga, Turkey, Uruguay, USA, Vanuatu, Wales, Yemen, Zaire, Zimbabwe.

A S F L V I H O N D U R A S O A Y E C

Can you find the 10 differences between these two pictures?

TXT PERT

L E B A N O N M M E X I C O I T M S K

SPOT THE DIFFERENCE

Across 3 Ribs, 5 Patella, 8 Canine, 10 Scar, 11 Nose Down 1 Hip, 2 Cuticles, 4 Brain, 6 Lungs, 7 Pain, 9 Ear

WORDSEARCH

Can you find 64 nations of the world, spelled horizontally, vertically or diagonally?

Spain Sweden Syria Taiwan

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March 2019

37

n SPORT

‘We have ambitious plans for the future’ SPORTS TALK In the spotlight this month is Steve Loxton, chairman and youth coach, Wells City Football Club Tell us a bit about your background in football, Steve.

I was born into a sporty family, both my Grandad and Dad played football for various teams around Wells. My Dad was a manager too, firstly at Mendip Hospital FC and then back at Wells. I played a bit myself, but only made a few appearances for Wells Reserves. A few years later I somehow found myself playing regular football for Evercreech and then Mendip Hospital Reserves.

I ended up running the sports shop in Wells, and Wells City secretary Steve Vowles asked if I would take on the running of the club’s bar. After a few weeks I was asked to step up to the vacant vice chairman’s position and eventually found myself taking the reins as chairman when Mike Webb stepped down.

That was 10 years ago now.

What does your role as chairman involve?

I’ve had to learn on the job, though have been massively supported by the club’s

Steve Loxton in coaching mode committee and numerous individuals. I also have an understanding wife and family. If there was a list of tasks it would be endless. The most frustrating factor is not having enough time, I have to limit myself to a few key areas. Having a hard-working committee helps massively. It’s a superb role and one that I relish and feel honoured to serve the club in.

You’re also a coach at the club’s popular Soccer School. Tell us a bit about that.

I started a couple of years ago,

initially to help my son-in-law and nephew coach the U6s, in which my grandson plays.

I stayed with the new U6s the following year (now U7s), and am loving every moment. We have some great characters, even at this age. It wasn’t my initial intention to get as deeply involved as I have, but it just drags you in and becomes a huge part of your weekend.

What age can kids start playing football at Wells?

Soccer School starts at the U6 age group, training on Saturday mornings from 10am. The emphasis is all about fun and enjoyment based around the basics of football, with a view to developing natural skills in a fun environment. This is more a social escape for the children, meeting like-minded boys and girls all looking to have fun and meet new friends in a friendly, safe environment.

How strong is the club at junior level?

The junior section of the club is massive and the envy of many other local clubs. Players progress from Soccer School into the U11s and right up to U18s. The vast majority of age groups have at least two and sometimes three or four teams, all competing in various local leagues.

All the coaches are FA

qualified and know the importance of being all inclusive, with winning trophies not the main focus. As the children all grow together, developing natural abilities at different rates, they bond and form a closeknit unit, and generally success follows as is proven by the majority of the older age groups.

Does the club have any plans for the future?

We have some quite ambitious plans for the future, yes. The Sports Club are hoping to sign a new lease with Mendip District Council soon, at which point we can start in earnest with the planned redevelopments. Most of this will be cost dependent and will need some serious fundraising.

We’ve heard whispers of an exciting event happening at the club in the spring...

We’ll be hosting a May Day fun day event called Party on the Pitch to be held on the bank holiday weekend of Sunday, May 5.

The day will start at 10.30am with a football match in aid of Somerset & Dorset Air Ambulance, with live music starting at midday. There will be various funfair rides, amusements, bouncy castles, face-painting, food outlets and the obligatory bar, but the best bit... entry is free.

Powerful performances against strong opponents FOOTBALL WELLS City 1sts have recorded some impressive results in the past month.

The local derby with highflying Cheddar ended in a 3-0 win for Wells thanks to goals from Jack Spence, Lewis Williams and Warren Mylum.

This was followed by a 2-0 win over third-placed Chard Town, Lewis Williams scoring both goals, one either side of half-time.

A 3-1 away win against another top four side, Calne Town, was then followed by a 1-0 defeat to lowly Chippenham Park.

Wells A’s undefeated streak

Left, Paul Braithwaite receives the man of the match award from club physio Steve Vowles after the game against Cheddar, and Lewis Williams receives the award from club sponsor Stuart Chafney of 24/7 Drainage Services for his man of the match performance against Chard Town came to an abrupt halt when they were soundly beaten by visitors Somer Valley, Reece Cornish the scorer in a 3-1 defeat.

They went into the fixture

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against top of the table Peasedown full of confidence, fresh off the back of a resounding 6-1 victory in the cup against Chew Magna Reserves a week

earlier. Jordan Strode-Walton and Tom Pledger caused the opposition defence problems all afternoon and Pledger got his reward on the half hour, dribbling past his marker before firing a low hard shot into the Peasedown goal which cannoned in off the post. Despite being on top for the majority of the half Wells went in level at half time after a free-kick was deflected past keeper Harrison Veale.

Wells retook the lead ten minutes from time when Dan Catley converted a penalty after Strode-Walton had been brought down. With seconds to go they were denied all three points after a bizarre penalty decision went against them, and the resulting spot kick was hammered home.

Email: news@wellsvoice.co.uk

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38

wellsvoice

March 2019 PAINTING AND DECORATING

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wellsvoice

March 2019

39

n SPORT

Impressive all-round effort but odds against Wells now RUGBY A MONTH ago, Wells were about to play Cheltenham, the one team below them in the Tribute Western Counties League table. Having lost that match in Cheltenham and the following three games, Wells now find themselves propping up the table, ten points below Cheltenham.

With three teams due to be relegated they are currently a massive 15 points from safety with just six games left, four of them away from home.

Relegation therefore looks a near certainty.

So what has gone wrong?

Lack of continuity in selection is one problem. Players are on shifts and sometimes experience difficulty in getting away in time

for a four-hour round trip to Gloucester, plus match time.

Injuries have not been kind this season and a few key players have been forced into retirement.

There have been some pluses.

Full-back Liam Barlow, who is almost an ever present in the side, loves to counter-attack and is probably the find of the season. Jamie and Tom Payne work extremely hard in the forwards as do the likes of Jed Symes, Sean Heggarty and Mike Dimaline. Skipper Al Knight never gives less than 100 per cent whatever position he finds himself in, as does elder brother Ben. Indeed, most of the time it is hard to fault the all-round efforts of the players.

It is now probably time to start planning for next season and although it may take a couple of years, Wells should

Strong finish to win by three HOCKEY

be able to once more climb the leagues.

The 2nd XV have also struggled recently, having not picked up a win in the last eight games. Injuries have resulted in Wells having to put out inexperienced sides against tough opposition.

Not all doom and gloom, there are several young players in the team who are progressing every week and now a couple of promising Wells colts (under 18s) are being integrated into the 2nd team which bodes well for the future of the club.

Wells have five games left this season which includes fixtures against the three teams nearest to them in the table. A strong finish to the season will hopefully see Wells 2nd XV continue to play their rugby in Somerset 2 North.

Mid Somerset Ladies 5 Winscombe 2nds 2 Winscombe started off strongly, fighting hard to claim the first goal of the match. Mids came back with strong work through the midfield passing with quick one twos by Dent, Dowden and Malcomson that won Mids a short corner, where Pierce was able to fire it past the keeper making it 1-1. Winscombe responded quickly, scoring another goal. Then quick set plays from the forwards, French, Durston and Moran, enabled Rae to find the back of the net to make the score 2-2 at the halftime whistle.

The second half saw Mids come back fighting, with further goals from Durston and Moran, and a cheeky reverse flick from Rae to score the final goal making it a 5-2 win for Mids.

Will Writing & Estate Planning

Odds & Ends skittles team were formed more than 50 years ago and are still going strong. The team’s home alley is the Tramways, Wells. The team are pictured proudly wearing the new team shirts sponsored by the Wells branch of CRS Building Supplies.

Coaching sessions open to all TENNIS A NUMBER of coaching sessions are open to non-members at Wells Tennis Club, Rowdens Road, all year round.

They are: n Mondays: 2pm, adult coaching; 4pm, up to age 8; 5pm, up to age 10. n Wednesdays: 4.30pm, age

11+; 9.30am, adult beginners and improvers; 7.30pm, adult rusty rackets. n Thursdays: 5.30pm, adult beginners and improvers. n Fridays: 6.15pm, cardio tennis. n Saturdays: 9.30am, up to age 8; 10.30am, up to age 10; 11.30am, age 11+.

For more information, visit wellstc.co.uk.

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