Wells Voice March 2020

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March 2020 Issue 33

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Tourist centre set to open in new location A NEW Tourist Information Centre will open in Wells on Saturday, February 29. Located in the Town Hall, the new venture will see the TIC move from its current location in Wells & Mendip Museum on Cathedral Green to a more visible and central position in Market Place. The project is a result of the partnership formed between several key organisations across Wells. Wells Heritage Partners was created to work collaboratively to push forward ideas and initiatives to raise the profile of the city and its remarkable heritage. The key organisations include The Bishop’s Palace, Wells Cathedral, Wells City Council and Wells & Mendip Museum, as well as Wells Chamber of Commerce & Tourism, Wells Civic Society and Wells businesses. The opening of the new TIC follows the recent accolade that Continued on page 3

Cars targeted in paint attacks Police investigate after number of vehicles around Wells are sprayed with paint Turn to page 3

Pub starts jazz and blues nights Live music sessions being held on Fridays will allow duos and trios to perform full sets Turn to page 5

New measures on parking planned Meters and permit parking among proposals for College Road and North Road area Turn to page 6

Harry Hill joins festival line-up Acclaimed funnyman among 58 shows now announced for city’s comedy jamboree Turn to page 8

Councillor Louis Agabani, Moira Anderson, administrator at The Bishop’s Palace, and Town Clerk Steve Luck in the new Wells Tourist Information Centre, which will be opening on February 29

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March 2020

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n NEWS

Police investigate spray paint attacks POLICE are investigating several incidents of criminal damage to vehicles in Wells. A number of cars were sprayed with paint overnight on February 17. Incidents reported to police include: n Cars being spray painted in Silver Street, Wells (crime reference 5220040309). “We have one confirmed victim, however several other cars have paint on them but these have not been reported to us,” said a police spokesman. n A car being sprayed with paint in Jocelyn Drive (crime reference 52200398868). n Two cars spray painted in Burcott Road, Wells (crime reference 5220039194). A fence and garage were also sprayed with paint in Churchill Road East, Wells (crime reference 5220040239), though police do not yet know if this is linked to the vehicle attacks. “Anyone with information relating to the above incidents should call us and quote the relevant crime reference number to the incident,” said the police spokesman. Nobody had been arrested at the time of going to press. There had already been more

Wine merchant changes location WINE merchant The Grape and The Good has moved to new premises in Broad Street, Wells. Established on Priory Road in 2015, the business moved to The Crown in Market Place a year ago, but owner Andrew Kinnersley has now decided to move back to the other end of the city centre. “I found that many of my customers prefer the area around Broad Street because of easier parking and access, and it is also near other great independents

such as the deli and the butcher’s,” he said. “I am looking forward to having a bit more space for a greater range and hope to be able to offer ‘drinking in’ by the summer.” The Crown is now using the space Andrew has vacated as a cafe area and gin bar. Able to seat up to 28 people, it can be booked as a meeting space, or for lunches and cream teas. Breakfasts are also available, from 8am.

Vaping banned in Mendip taxis THE use of vaping devices has been banned in all Mendip District Council licensed taxis and private hire vehicles. Councillors have approved an amendment to the current Taxi Licencing Policy to introduce a ban on using alternative devices such as electronic cigarettes, vaping devices and any other form of inhalation device.

Mendip District Council has responsibility for the licensing regimes for hackney carriages (taxis) and private hire vehicles (PHVs) within the Mendip district. The ban will apply to both drivers and passengers, and brings e-cigarettes in line with the smoking ban in licensed vehicles.

Cars sprayed with paint in Jocelyn Drive, top, and Silver Street than 60 reports of damage to vehicles in Wells in the past three months, mostly damage to wing mirrors over the Christmas period.

Bishop and mayor to open TIC From page 1 saw Wells voted best UK city for a short break in a Which? travel poll. The city also won Coach Friendly Destination 2019 at the British Coach Tourism Awards, and has been shortlisted again for the award for 2020. The official opening of the TIC will take place at 11am on February 29, with both the Mayor of Wells, Councillor John Osman, and the Rt Rev Peter Hancock, Bishop of Bath and Wells, in attendance to cut the ribbon.

The TIC will be open daily, initially from 10am until 4pm, and will be a hub for information for visitors and locals. Visitors will also be able to purchase souvenirs from their visit to Wells along with planning how to spend their time in the city and beyond. The Visit Wells team has said it is looking forward to welcoming visitors to the TIC and to promoting everything that the city of Wells and the surrounding area has to offer. u Coach friendly recognition again, page 7

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wellsvoice March 2020 n NEWS Lib Dems gain Three vying to two councillors represent ward

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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

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THE two Liberal Democrat candidates, Rachel Humphreys and Joseph Parker, were elected as city councillors in the Wells St Thomas Ward election held on February 7. The election followed the resignations of Tony Robbins and Andrew Fawcett. n Results: Rachel Humphreys (Liberal Democrat) 559 Elected; Joseph Parker (Liberal Democrat) 470 Elected; David Swain (Conservative Party) 404; Sebastian Johns (Conservative Party) 378; Sarah Powell (Wells Independents) 319; Peter Harlow (Green Party) 226. Total rejected ballot papers: 3.

THE election of a city councillor for Wells’ St Cuthbert’s Ward will take place on Thursday, February 27. The election follows the resignation of Geoffrey Dickson for health reasons. Candidates standing in the election are: n Jasmine Browne, Liberal Democrat n Mathew Cooley, Labour Party n Sean Sloan, Conservative Party The Returning Officer ruled that Green Party candidate Paul Crummay’s nomination was invalid.

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

PUBLISHER’S NOTE: Wells Voice is independent. We cannot take responsibility for content or accuracy of adverts, and it is advertisers’ responsibility to conform to all relevant legislation. We cannot vouch for any services offered. Opinions are not necessarily those of the editor. Wells Voice is distributed each month to residents. Feedback is always welcomed – email news@wellsvoice.co.uk. This month 7,000 copies will be distributed around Wells and surrounding villages.

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A team from Wells chartered surveyors db+PAUL spent a day in February as volunteers with the Reimagining the Levels partnership, helping plant 350 trees on Yarley Hill, near Wells. As well as feeling good about giving something back to the local environment, the team said they found it to be a valuable ‘team-building’ day out.

Company has plans for shop

Teaming up for gala film night

OUTDOOR clothing company Trespass has applied to install partition walls, add new lighting and carry out some internal decoration works at 17 Market Place, Wells. The company has also applied to Mendip District Council to paint its name and logo on the existing timber fascia, and repaint the existing hanging sign with the company name and logo. The Grade II* listed building has been empty for more than a year since Steamer Trading Cookshop closed.

THE Wells in Mosaic team have teamed up with Wells Film Centre to host an opening night gala for the movie Radioactive on Friday, March 20. They are hoping to get the full mosaic design on to the big screen before the start of the film, about the life of Marie Curie. Tickets are available from Wells Film Centre or from Steve Wilson at The Square, Priory Road. Once completed, the giant mosaic will be sited at Wells Recreation Ground.

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March 2020

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n NEWS Practices merger falls through

Gerry Morris and the Griffith’s butcher’s team

Discount offer for pensioners LONG-ESTABLISHED Wells butchers F Griffith’s & Sons will be offering a special discount in the coming month for the city’s senior citizens. There will a be ten per cent discount on each Tuesday in March on anything bought in the High Street shop, whether it is a joint, a handful of sausages or just a slice of ham. “Tuesday is our quietest day of the week. It was, traditionally, pension day at the post office so a lot of our trade on that day was from pensioners who had been

out to collect their pensions and were now doing their weekly shop,” said Wells manager Gerry Morris, who has worked in the shop since 1980. “People don’t need to physically collect their pensions anymore so we hope that by offering this discount, we may encourage this group to make Tuesday their main shopping day again, getting out and about and seeing some familiar friendly faces. “As a local family-run business, we love serving

Launch of jazz and blues nights FRIDAY night will be live jazz and blues night at the Full Moon in Southover, Wells, from now on. Landlord Kevin Graham has commissioned the events which will feature duos and trios in the bar. He has asked Paul Cannon of the Wells Jazz Collective to help book the acts. The WJC’s monthly jam sessions at The Venue in South Street, Wells, are well attended by musicians and jazz lovers alike. “A lot of superb players and singers come to the jams,” said Paul, “but they’ve become so popular that there’s only time for them to do a couple of numbers each. These new events at the Full Moon will mean they can do full sets.” Acclaimed local jazz pianist and composer Hywel Davies will launch the series on February 28 with his new combo, Newton’s

our community and we hope that this will help to show our appreciation to some of our most loyal and regular customers.” The offer is available from 7am-5pm on Tuesdays, March 3, 10, 17, 24 and 31.

THE proposed merger of Wells Health Centre and Wells City Practice has fallen through. A letter sent to patients said that staff are disappointed at the outcome, but that “the decision not to proceed reflects the strong cultures of the practices and wish to preserve their individual strengths”. It continued: “This does of course mean that there will be no change to the way that both practices currently operate.” Somerset Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) had given the go-ahead last October to the proposed merger, and plans had got as far as unveiling a new logo for the combined practice. Confirming that the Wells practices have withdrawn their application to merge, a CCG spokesperson said: “We will continue to support the two GP practices in Wells to provide high quality patient care.”

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Sax player Paul Cannon of the WJC Toad. Supported by guitar and drums, Hywel will be playing melodica in a French-themed set. The monthly blues nights at the Moon begin on March 6 with the celebrated Wells-based bluesman ZZ Birmingham on guitar, vocals and harmonica, supported by drums and sax.

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March 2020

n NEWS

Meters proposed in action over parking PARKING meters could be installed in College Road, Wells, as part of new proposals to tackle parking and traffic issues in the area. Drivers would be able to buy tickets for up to three hours of parking – or obtain tickets for 20 minutes of free parking to enable them, for example, to drop off or pick up children at Stoberry Park School. The planned parking restrictions would apply from 8.30am-6pm, Monday to Saturday. The proposals envisage new double yellow lines on parts of College Road and North Road, and permit parking in Stoberry Avenue and Stoberry Crescent. If agreed after further consultation with local residents, work could start in May. Wells county councillor Tessa Munt explained the proposals at the PACT (Police and Communities Together) meeting at Wells Town Hall on February 11. They are part of a wider look at issues across Wells by Highways experts, with consultation letters being sent out soon to every home in Wells to give people a chance to have their say. In concerns raised by members of the public at the PACT meeting, Shelagh Addis complained about lorries breaking weight restrictions around Wells, including in St Thomas Street, where she lives. “I know that because all my

pictures are going askew,” she said. “That’s the way to tell now that something overweight is going up St Thomas Street. It’s got very bad recently.” Others reported that a lot of cars were driving the wrong way along Broad Street, and that there are an increasing number of private cars travelling up Chamberlain Street contrary to the restrictions. PCSO Samuel White said that officers had been carrying out checks in Chamberlain Street. He told the meeting that there had been five confirmed cases of burglaries in Wells in the past three months: three businesses and two residential. Over the same period there had been 14 thefts from vehicles. He said some of the thefts were of wallets that had been left on view. One person has been arrested and released under investigation. There had also been 65 instances of criminal damage to vehicles, mostly a spate of damage to wing mirrors over the Christmas period. Two teenagers had been arrested and released under investigation, he said. Other crime statistics for the past three months showed that there had been 26 reports of public order offences, seven reports of drug offences, and 15 stop searches, some of which resulted in arrest, a drug warning or voluntary attendance. The next PACT meeting will be in the Town Hall on May 5.

Members of Wells Classic Motorcycle Club, which won The Best Club Stand Award at this year’s Bristol Classic Motorcycle Show

More success for motorcycle club WELLS Classic Motorcycle Club again won The Best Club Stand Award at this year’s Bristol Classic Motorcycle Show. The club’s fine display of classic bikes was supported by an impressive roadside lay-by theme which included a Snack Shack caravan plus a Strawberry Cart complete with fresh and other goodies. The Snack Shack was ably manned by Dave Bury, and the Strawberry Cart by Jany Scott dressed as a strawberry.

The stand again created much interest from visitors to the show, held at the Royal Bath & West Showground. The Wells club is also well known for its annual Tortoise and Hare Run which is open to all bikes and scooters, and raises much-needed funds for Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance. This year is the 10th annual event, which will take place on Sunday, June 7. Details at wellsclassicmotorcycleclub. weebly.com

Charity walk with pasty reward THE Great Somerset Rugby Walk from Wells Cathedral Green to Tor Rugby Club takes place on Saturday, March 14. The 6.5-mile walk is a fundraiser for St Margaret’s Hospice Care. It starts at 1.30pm, with registration at 1pm, and takes between 2.5 and three

hours to complete. The entry fee is £25 for adults and £15 for 12to 18-year-olds which includes a pasty and a pint or soft drink at the end. Under 12s are free. For more information, contact Terena Gill (Community Fundraiser East Somerset) on 01935 709484.

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n NEWS

Consultation starts on post office move THE Post Office has launched a consultation on moving Wells Post Office from Market Place to the Peacocks store in High Street. It would be a modern mainstyle branch with three serving positions, the Post Office says – a mixture of one modern screened and two open plan counters in a dedicated area of the store. The proposed opening hours are Monday to Saturday 9am5.30pm, and Sunday 10am-4pm. This would be an extra 11 hours of post office service per week including all-day Sunday and Saturday afternoon. Current postmaster Kevin Truman has resigned, but has agreed to continue to operate the Market Place branch for the time being. The Post Office says it is confident that the relocation is the best way of safeguarding post office services to the local community, adding that the

Wells Post Office in Market Place was originally going to close last September, but has remained open while efforts have been made to find an alternative location for it proposed new operator may start to refurbish the premises during consultation, though the post office branch move is subject to its consultation decision. The Post Office is now inviting customers and interested parties to give their comments on the move in a public consultation and is looking for feedback about

accessibility, local community issues and anything that it can do to make life easier for customers. The consultation will close on March 25. Customers can share their views during the consultation online at postofficeviews.co.uk with the branch code 321504. Submissions can also be made via email to comments@

postoffice.co.uk, by post to Freepost YOUR COMMENTS, or by telephone 03452 66 01 15 or Textphone 03457 22 33 55. Wells City Council owns the current site in the Market Place and has agreed an extension to March 31 of the Post Office’s lease to allow them extra time to complete their proposed move. “The Post Office informed the council the branch would be closing in September 2019,” said Wells Town Clerk Steve Luck, “but they were persuaded to stay until January 2020 as two retailers had shown an interest in hosting a post office. Agreement has now been reached with one of the shops. “In the meantime, the city council are in final discussions with a potential new tenant for the Market Place building who has been working with us to allow the Post Office as much time as possible to complete their move.”

The Changing Room

Wells is in the running again to be named Coach Friendliest Destination

Coach friendly recognition again FOR the fourth consecutive year, Wells has reached the shortlist in the category of Coach Friendliest Destination at this year’s British Coach Tourism Awards. Wells has been a runner up twice, and won the accolade last year, for the Project Coach initiative that worked with various stakeholders over a three-year period to make the city more welcoming to those arriving on coaches. Improvements have included the implementation of free coach parking, a volunteer meet and greet service, and incentives by local businesses and attractions for coach passengers, drivers

and tour guides such as group discounts and meal deals. Ross Young, who organises the meet and greet team, said: “It is a great honour to be shortlisted again having won the award last year. It is a testament to the city and the welcome given to visitors and operators alike. No destination has ever won the award two years running. We live in hope.” The award ceremony takes place in Birmingham on March 25, and other destinations shortlisted in the category are Bournemouth, Christchurch & Poole Tourism, Southport, Otley and Burnham-on-Sea.

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Pre-loved modern, vintage and retro fashion over three floors 7 Queen Street, Wells BA5 2DP Open Tues - Sat 10am - 5pm www.changingroomwells.com 01749 674896 Email: news@wellsvoice.co.uk

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n NEWS

Harry Hill joins star-studded line-up

HARRY Hill is one of the latest stars to join the line-up for this year’s Wells Comedy Festival. He will be performing two work-in-progress shows: How Not To Be Normal and CAVEMAN – a wordless comedy play with fellow comics Holly Burn and Paul F Taylor. Others just added to the bill include Robin Ince, Olga Koch, Angelos Epithemiou, Rachel Fairburn, Mike Wozniak, Foxdog Studios, Matthew Highton and Loyiso Gola, taking the total number of shows announced so far to 58. The festival, now in its sixth year, will be staged at six venues around Wells from May 22-24. There will be appearances by funnyman, podcast host and Hot Fuzz star Adam Buxton – who is already sold out – Netflix star and Edinburgh Comedy Award winner Bridget Christie, legendary American comic

Stars appearing at this year’s Wells Comedy Festival include, from left, Paul Foot, Lou Sanders and Harry Hill Reginald D Hunter, TV regular Mark Watson, Taskmaster champion Lou Sanders, absurdist maestro Paul Foot and QI star Sindhu Vee. There are Live at the Apollo stars galore – including Dane Baptiste, Rhys James, Mawaan Rizwan, Jessica Fostekew, Jen Brister, Fin Taylor, Sara Barron and Larry Dean – plus Edinburgh Comedy Award nominees Mat Ewins, Lucy Pearman, Tony Law, Alun Cochrane, Glenn Moore,

Sam Fletcher, Joseph Morpurgo, Jayde Adams and Kieran Hodgson, the Comedians Cinema Club’s version of Hot Fuzz, and plenty more besides. All of the shows – and four Gala shows showcasing a secret line-up of the best of the fest – are on sale now from www. wellscomfest.com. Ben Williams, founder and producer of the festival, said: “Harry Hill is one of my all-time favourite comedians, so I’m

chuffed he’s playing this year’s festival. “It really is looking like the best line-up yet.” Andy Vallis – editor of Wells Voice, official media partner – said: “Wells Comedy Festival brings a real buzz to the city, and with the first star names announced for 2020, the excitement is already building for this year’s event. “It should be another memorable weekend.”

Photographer wins another award Posy ring goes on public display WELLS photographer Neil Bremner is celebrating winning another award. One of his photos, seen right, has been chosen as Image of the Year in the Advertising and Commercial Photography category by the Guild of Photographers. The guild, the national photographic body for professional photographers and enthusiasts, chooses the Image of the Year from its Image of the Month competition entries, and there were about 13,500 entries during 2019. The guild’s awards

night took place at Crewe Hall in Cheshire on February 1. Neil, whose Made Portraits studio is in Glastonbury, was unable to attend so watched the live updates on social media as the awards were being announced. He said: “I couldn’t believe it. I had to have my wife check my phone to see if I was reading it correctly as it was truly unexpected.” Neil won the guild’s Print Photographer of the Year award in 2018 but this is the first time he has won an Image of the Year award.

WELLS & Mendip Museum has recently acquired a locally-found posy ring. A posy ring is a finger ring inscribed with a short message. It gets its name from “poesy”, an old word for a verse of poetry or a motto. This ring is inscribed “FERE + GOD + EVER”, where “fere” is an old word for a marriage partner – a husband or wife. During the Middle Ages when religion was so much part of everyday life, it was not unusual to combine religious, friendly or amorous words. Medieval rings had the inscription on the outside but later ones, like the museum’s post-medieval

The posy ring that has gone on display at the museum example which dates from between 1550 and 1650, have the inscription on the inside. Curator David Walker said: “The craftsmanship of the goldsmith is amazing and the ring will make a wonderful addition to the museum’s displays.” The ring went on display at the museum in February.

Flower festival planned with Gilbert and Sullivan theme IT may still be winter, but St Cuthbert’s Church in Wells is thinking ahead to warmer weather, beautiful flowers and song. A flower festival is being planned with a Gilbert and Sullivan theme. This will take

place from Friday, June 19, to Sunday, June 21. The Bristol Gilbert and Sullivan Operatic Society will be performing on the Friday and Saturday nights. Organisers are inviting people who would like to take part in the

To advertise, contact Andy on 01749 675157

festival to get in touch. It might be that they belong to a flower arranging or gardening club, would like to help steward the event, or might like to sponsor a floral arrangement in memory of a loved one. The organisers

say: “There are so many ways in which we would welcome help to produce a colourful display that will bring joy to many.” For further details, ring Suzy on 01749 672633 or email vivashsuzy@gmail.com

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wellsvoice n NEWS

March 2020

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those who live and work with them. People can come along and just listen or join in on the discussions, hopefully leaving with a clearer sense of the impact of the menopause on those who are experiencing it, alongside their families, friends and colleagues.” The Menopause Cafe event is being organised by Kate Woods, founder of Menopath, which promotes menopausal awareness. She will often be accompanied by Menopath co-founder Samsara Tanner. Both are passionate about this life-changing time. Following the April Menopause Cafe, others will be held on Sundays May 17, June 28, July 19 and August 23, at the same time and location. If there is enough interest, they will continue into the autumn. This is a drop-in event but booking is recommended so that an appropriate-sized table can be chosen. For more information, text Kate on 07904 154748. The Menopause Cafe is a free event.

Writing workshop and readings

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A MENOPAUSE Cafe aimed at offering co-support and breaking down the taboo around menopause is being launched in Wells. It also aims to increase awareness of the impact on those experiencing the menopause and their family, friends and colleagues, and to reflect on this stage of life. The Menopause Cafe will be held in The Fosso Lounge at 41 High Street, with the first one taking place on Sunday, April 26, from 7pm to 9.30pm. Rachel Weiss, who founded Menopause Cafe, said: “The Menopause Cafe is aimed at anyone who would like to come along and talk about the menopause, to share their stories, experiences and questions, all made that little bit easier with tea and cake. “Unfortunately, many women feel that they should just ‘get on with’ the menopause, with some never talking to their friends of family about it, but the reality is that it affects all women eventually, not forgetting

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CHILDREN’S author Jae Malone will be signing, giving readings and presenting a Creative Writing Workshop for children aged 9-15 at Wells Library in March. Jae is the author of The Winterne Series, fantasy

adventure stories for children of all ages, set around Wookey Hole, Wells and under the Mendip Hills. She will be at the library on Saturday, March 21, at 11am. To book a place, email wlslib@ somerset.gov.uk.

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March 2020

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n NEWS

‘No decision yet’ on St Andrews Ward HEALTH chiefs say that it is not a foregone conclusion that the St Andrews Ward mental health unit in Wells will be closed. A public meeting was held in Wells Town Hall on February 6 to discuss proposals by Somerset Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) to transfer the 14 beds from the unit at Priory Health Park to Rowan Ward at Yeovil as part of the Fit For My Future review. In response to a question from one of the attendees at the meeting about whether a decision had already been made, CCG chief executive James Rimmer said: “We haven’t made a decision, we’ve made a proposal.”

He said that there was a clear direction of travel, but that the CCG needs to make sure that it has taken on board views expressed during the threemonth long consultation before a formal decision is made. In a presentation on the proposals, Maria Heard said that the aim is to shift the focus towards prevention, and to get services working better together. Alex Murray pointed out the issues with lack of out-ofhours medical cover in Wells and the greater distance from an emergency department if required, compared to wards in Yeovil or Taunton, and said

that the wards are a county-wide resource. After break-out discussions between audience members and CCG facilitators, a number of points were made and questions put to the assembled panel. There was concern about transport to Yeovil for patients and family members, concern that carers were being overlooked in the process, and concern if self-help groups were going to be taking over from the professionals. One person said there was a feeling that the standard of care is better in Wells than in Yeovil or Taunton, and that there should be more beds in Wells

rather than moving them away. Martin Cooke, a St Cuthbert Out parish councillor, said that the ward was a great asset to carers, and said: “Your idea of moving beds out of St Andrews wants throwing in the bin and you need to make more use of St Andrews.” Wells mayor Councillor John Osman, who was co-chairing the meeting, summed up by telling the panel: “We’ve heard that St Andrews is valued by inpatients, valued by carers and we think it’s an excellent service.” The consultation continues until April 12. For more information and to take part, log on to fitformyfuture.org.uk

Fears of potential impact including on patient recovery ONE of those who attended the meeting about St Andrews Ward was Vanessa Gordon, a trustee at the Heads Up mental health charity at South Horrington. She has worked in mental health services for more than 30 years, including for NHS England, and was an adviser to Jeremy Hunt when he was Health Secretary. Vanessa said it was heartwrenching to hear one patient at the meeting in Wells describe her difficulties in getting help. “It’s so hard for people to get into a mental health service,” she said. Systems are at breaking point, she said, and sending more patients to Yeovil is only going to increase the pressure on systems there.

Representatives from the Heads Up and Lawrence Centre charities at the St Picture: Philip Welch Andrews Ward consultation The CCG says that one of the benefits would be because Rowan Ward is closer to an A&E department – but Vanessa said that does not necessarily mean a patient will get seen quickly anyway. “We know mental health

patients who have gone to A&E departments and had to wait 11 hours to be seen.” She said that with the growth of the population in the area, more beds should be created rather than being closed.

“There’s also a rumour that the West Mendip A&E department is going to close. That could be a first point of contact for some of our mental health patients, so that’s a double blow.” If St Andrews Ward does close, said Vanessa, the CCG needs to ensure that the compensatory systems it has in place in this area are robust enough and rapid enough to cope. She added: “One of the key things we do at Heads Up is work very closely with St Andrews as part of a patient’s recovery and discharge plan. They’re not going to come back to Wells and do a therapeutic workshop and then go back to Rowan. That will have a huge impact on people’s recovery.”

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12

March 2020

n NEWS

‘Fantastic response’ to network launch

WELLS Town Hall’s Main Hall was packed for the launch of Wells Climate Action Network (Wells CAN) on Friday, February 7. The first Pay It Forward event at the Town Hall, the evening was complete with supper, information, poetry and songs plus the opportunity for all those attending to talk together about the challenge of low carbon living. The development of Wells CAN is part of the plan by the city council’s Climate Emergency Committee (CEC) to make sure that Wells residents have information about what they can do to meet the challenge of the climate crisis. “Although we all appreciate the urgent need for national government guidance and action, there is plenty that we can do locally that makes a difference,”

said Sarah Briton, current chairperson of the CEC. “The response to the launch has been fantastic; the tickets, which were free to book, went like hotcakes, the room was packed on the evening and the response to the request to Pay It Forward means we have funds to further develop the network.” Angela Terry from onehome. org.uk gave the evening’s lively presentation providing a guide to those areas in the current lifestyle of an average Wells resident which result in emissions of about 12.5 tonnes of carbon per year. She went on to share ideas about what people can do to reduce this – from installing LED lightbulbs to using public transport or car sharing, not to mention eating more locally produced food and cutting down on consumption of ‘stuff’.

A packed room at the Town Hall for the Wells CAN event with many more, including local businesses as well as Wells residents,” said Sarah. “Anyone is welcome to join Wells CAN so please get in touch particularly if you have suggestions about how we can widen the reach of the network. Just contact the Town Hall on reception@wells.gov.uk or call 01749 673091.”

Her top tip was for everyone to check their home insulation and improve it wherever possible. This not only saves carbon but also money. “The CEC was fortunate to be able to develop Wells CAN in partnership with local organisations Project Factory, Somerset CAN and Sustainable Wells – and we want to work

Assessment of carbon emissions will help inform targets A COMPREHENSIVE assessment of current carbon emissions in Mendip has been carried out by the district council. The report – the first of its kind conducted in the district – assesses the area’s carbon footprint, identifies key sources of emissions, and sets out priorities for action and measuring progress.

The findings reveal that domestic heat and power consumption account for 25 per cent of the district’s total emissions (220,240 tCO2e). Transport produces 42 per cent of the district’s emissions overall (302,941 tCO2e), with 72 per cent of those emissions (218,872 tCO2e) as a result of on-road transportation. Car ownership increased by 10 per cent between

2009 and 2018. There are currently 65,600 cars registered in Mendip, with just 0.3 per cent of those being Ultra Low Emission Vehicles. Tom Ronan, a Wells district councillor and Portfolio Holder for Strategic Policy and Climate Change, said: “Environmental concerns must continue to be the first priority for national and local government.

“Establishing a picture of our current emissions in Mendip is key to understanding the best approach to becoming carbon neutral. “This report will inform future targets for climate action.” Last year Mendip District Council declared a Climate Emergency. It pledged to make Mendip carbon neutral by 2030.

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wellsvoice

March 2020

13

n NEWS

MP and students in climate challenge YOUNG activists from the Wells Climate Strike group joined Wells MP James Heappey recently to take part in a challenge to reduce their climate footprint over the next three months. Both Mr Heappey and the activists have committed to making realistic changes in that period to see who can bring down their carbon footprint the most, and will compare results to see who is the winner. Using the World Wildlife Fund’s carbon footprint calculator (footprint.wwf. org.uk), the group’s average combined score is 8.44 tonnes – which is 80 per cent of the 2020 target of 10.5 tonnes per person. Although lower than the target footprint, it is still higher than the world average of four tonnes per person. The world’s population produces 16 million tonnes of carbon emissions every 24 hours. The concentration of carbon in the atmosphere has increased by 40 per cent since the Industrial Revolution began, according to www.carboncalculator.co.uk Young Wells climate campaigner Orlando Borodale has challenged the city’s residents to get involved. “There is no Planet B, so

Climate campaigners in Wells with MP James Heappey it’s essential that we all make changes now to help to create a better, greener planet,” he said. “If we can support local businesses and farmers, improve our health and help tackle climate change, that has to be a good thing.” The group has committed to make changes around eating less meat, buying fewer new clothes and travelling less by car. Mr Heappey intends to plant trees locally and continue his support of a Defra initiative called The Elms which is an

environmental scheme to help dedicate land to long-term conservation purposes, such as by offering subsidies to farmers to plant trees and recreate bogland.

Wells residents will be invited to complete the WWF carbon footprint calculator at the next Climate Strike demonstration on March 13, where a leaderboard will be created. The person with the lowest footprint on the day will win a copy of Greta Thunberg’s book, No One Is Too Small To Make A Difference. The third Climate Strike will take place in front of Wells Town Hall from 11am-2pm. The strike is part of the global student action inspired by Greta Thunberg and is being organised by a group of Blue School students, supported by a number of parents and working alongside Sustainable Wells and XR Wells. The demonstration aims to encourage people in Wells to take action now to tackle global warming. It will include speeches, opportunities to discuss the issues with local councillors, a vegan food stall and a free clothes exchange.

Precept rise to cover trust costs WELLS City Council is to increase the precept to cover the anticipated cost of taking on the Wells Recreation Ground Trust. Mendip District Council has offered to hand the Bishop’s Barn and Recreation Ground back to the city, initially on a three-year lease arrangement. They are currently the responsibility of the trust, a charity for which the district council is the sole trustee. At the city council meeting on January 30, Town Clerk Steve Luck said that if the city council did take on the trust, it did not have sufficient funds to run it. He said that £20,000 had been set aside, but that it looked as if £35,000 a year would be needed to run it initially – a sum that would diminish once the Barn was providing income. A proposal to add another £15,000 to the precept to make

up the shortfall was passed by councillors. They agreed to set up a working group to assist council staff in negotiations with the district council about taking over the Barn and Recreation Ground. The working group will report back to the full council on the discussions. In his police report, PC Dan Williams told the meeting that December was a “terrible” month for Wells, largely because of the amount of vehicle crime in the Southover area. Police were tackling the anti-social behaviour of a particular group of people by trying to engage with them and their parents, he said, and also tackling begging in the area. He said that a Mercedes had been seen dropping off four people in Wells to beg on market day.

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wellsvoice

14

March 2020

n NEWS

Big audience to hear housing discussion HOUSING development is a complex issue with no simple answers. That was the message of a meeting about the subject organised by Sustainable Wells in response to the large number of homes being built in the Wells area. Speakers included Mendip District Council deputy chief executive Tracy Aarons and district councillor Janine Nash, the council’s deputy leader and portfolio leader for planning policy and the Local Plan. Tracy explained that they were not professionally trained planners but had built up knowledge of the subject over the years, and that the views they were expressing to the large audience packed into the upstairs room at the White Hart in Wells were their own, and not those of the council. She talked about the Local Plan, “a story of how an area will grow and develop over time”, which has to satisfy an inspector that it delivers the need identified by the evidence gathered. The council does not randomly choose sites to be

Tom Ronan, left, and Gabriel Bolton, right, of Sustainable Wells, with one of the speakers, Gary Milla developed, she said; they are assessed for suitability after a landowner has come forward and asked for a site to be developed, usually after a call for land from the council. She also said that there is now extra pressure on councils from the Government to stop them refusing development. Janine said that the Government has increased the number of new homes required

annually in Mendip from the council’s figure of 420 to 604. She said that a development will gain approval unless there is a really good reason to say no, and that the council will face sanctions if it fails to hit its new homes target. Among issues raised by audience members during the discussion was what control the council has over the quality of building; whether the council

monitors who buys the houses and how many go to locals; and whether action is taken to bring empty properties back into use. Two more speakers then gave presentations: Nick Pyatt, a specialist in climate adaptation, and Gary Milla, a sustainable builder. Nick said that climate change means plans need to be made to cope with surface water flooding, including in Wells, and hotter days. The Bridgwater and Burnham-on-Sea area could become “unviable” because of a rise in sea levels, he said, and councils may have to think about where they want to develop, adding that in Somerset a lot of land that could be developed is AONB and other specially designated land. Gary talked about the benefits of building with CLT – crosslaminated wood – that holds in carbon. “It’s the right way to build,” he said; and he hopes to embarrass the “big developers” into changing their ways. u Letters, page 30

Proposal for 90 more homes

Dates for next show pushed back

GLADMAN Developments are inviting views on proposals for 90 new homes on land off Wookey Hole Road, on the Wookey Hole village side of the new Bovis estate. In the document, which can be seen and commented on at your-views.co.uk/wells, they say the scheme would bring

WELLS Little Theatre’s production of Quartet has been delayed by two weeks due to unforseen circumstances. One role has had to be recast and the delay allows more time for rehearsal. Director Jacki Watts said: “With a cast of only four people, all the roles are large and so

benefits including up to 40 per cent affordable homes, additional custom for businesses in Wells, and financial contributions towards local services where required. In January, Gladman won approval from Mendip District Council for up to 100 houses on land off Elm Close.

to give the new cast member a chance to learn the part, we have delayed the production by two weeks.” The new dates for the show are Wednesday, March 25, to Saturday, March 28, at 7.30pm. Tickets went on sale on Saturday, February 22, and are £10.

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wellsvoice

March 2020

15

n NEWS Programme

This year’s festival films include Grease and Billy Elliot

Classic line-up for 2020 film festival EVERYONE will find something to enjoy at this year’s Wells Festival of Film. The 2020 festival, organised by Wells Film Centre and running from April 24-26, incorporates a range of classic films including Monty Python’s

Life of Brian, family favourites The Aristocats and Lady And The Tramp, and the uplifting Billy Elliot. This year’s outdoor screening at The Bishop’s Palace will be the sing-a-long version of the 1978 classic Grease. Film-goers

will be able to join in with wellloved numbers such as Grease Lightning, Summer Lovin’ and You’re the One That I Want. Good girl Sandy and greaser Danny fell in love over the summer. When they unexpectedly discover they’re now in the same high school, will they be able to rekindle their romance? The event will take place on Friday, April 24, from 6.30pm, with the pre-show at 8pm followed by the film. Tickets include a hog roast (or vegetarian/vegan option) and a drink. Attendees should take their own blanket or low-backed seating and an umbrella, as the show will go on whatever the weather. On Sunday, April 26, at 4pm, there will be a Talking Film event with local art historian Joanne Cobb, who will discuss Brief Encounter before a screening of the film, while the festival’s closing film, Pretty Woman, will be a black tie event with drinks and chocolates included in the ticket price.

n April 24, from 6.30pm, pre-show 8pm: Grease-SingA-Long (PG), 111 minutes, adult £20, children £18. At The Bishop’s Palace. n April 24, 7.30pm: Billy Elliot (15), 106 minutes, £8. n April 25, 2pm: The Aristocats (U), 77 minutes, £5.20. n April 25, 4.30pm: Monty Python’s Life of Brian (12A), 90 minutes, adults £7.20, children £6.20. n April 26, 2pm: Lady And The Tramp (U), 73 minutes, £5.20. n April 26, 4pm: Talking Film: Brief Encounter (PG), talk one hour, film 86 minutes, £10. n April 26, 7.30pm: Pretty Woman (15), 117 minutes, £10. n For more information, see www.wellsfilmcentre.co.uk WELLS FESTIVAL OF FILM 24th - 26th APRIL 2020

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Rotary club film gala raises £600 WELLS Rotary raised hundreds of pounds for charity at a Gala Film Night in Wells. About 100 film-goers were given a glass of wine on arrival at Wells Film Centre, before watching the acclaimed film 1917 on its release day on January 10. A supplement from the ticket price and the proceeds of a raffle resulted in just over £600 being raised for Medical Detection Dogs. President of Wells Rotary, Chris Borrison, said: “During my year as president I have

chosen Medical Detection Dogs as my charity to support. These amazing dogs are able to literally sniff out some forms of cancer at an early stage and other dogs are able to detect, for example, if their diabetic owner is overdue with their insulin medication.” Chris thanked all those who supported the film night and made possible the donation to the charity. He also thanked those who donated the raffle prizes and Wells Film Centre for allowing the organisation to hold the event.

Winter appeal raises record sum SOMERSET Community Foundation (SCF) has announced that the 2019/20 Surviving Winter appeal has raised a record-breaking £110,000, thanks to the generosity of local donors. The team at SCF have been distributing funding across the county, and aim to support more than 500 vulnerable older people with a Surviving Winter grant, helping to keep them warm, safe and well. The annual appeal

encourages pensioners who can afford to, to donate some or all of their Winter Fuel Payment. These donations provide funding and support to older neighbours across Somerset who are struggling to heat their homes. SCF’s development director, Laura Blake, said: “We have been absolutely blown away by the support we’ve received for this year’s Surviving Winter appeal. We’re hugely grateful to each and every person who has donated.”

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wellsvoice

16

March 2020

n NEWS

‘We’ll be celebrating the best in Mendip’ LOCAL business owners can enter their business into one of ten categories to be in with a chance of winning in this year’s Mendip Business Awards. The winners of the sixth annual awards will be announced during the evening celebrations at the Royal Bath & West Showground on Wednesday, May 27. Mendip is home to 6,000 independent and vibrant businesses and the annual awards are held to recognise and celebrate their hard work and success. Councillor Peter Goater, Portfolio Holder for Economic Development, said: “I am looking forward to seeing which Mendip businesses take the opportunity to enter these fantastic awards. Old, new, big or small – we’ll be celebrating the very best in Mendip and giving them the recognition they deserve.” This year’s awards have

Last year’s Mendip Business Awards winners and finalists a category for every type of business, including Market Trader of the Year. This award celebrates the art of market trading in Mendip towns throughout 2019. Categories are: n Community Enterprise of the Year – sponsored by Aster Group n Retail/ Hospitality Business of the Year – sponsored by Middlewick Holiday Cottages

BAwards

MENDIP USINESS2020

Picture: Andrew Gorman

n Customer Services Excellence – sponsored by Melhuish & Saunders n Taste of Mendip – sponsored by Swan Hotel, Wells n Family Business of the Year – sponsored by Ayton Global Research n Market Trader of the Year – sponsored by Burton Sweet n New Business of the Year – sponsored by Old Mill

n Apprentice of the Year – sponsored by Mendip District Council n Small Business of the Year – sponsored by NFU Mutual, Wells n Business of the Year – sponsored by Heart Radio To enter or to register interest in tickets, visit www. mendipbusinessawards.co.uk, email bizawards@mendip.gov.uk or call 01749 341345.

Entries close @ noon on Friday 27th March The awards ceremony takes place on Wednesday 27th May at the Royal Bath and West Showground.

Business of the Year (5+ Employees)

Apprentice of the Year Sponsored by Mendip District Council

Small Business of the Year Sponsored by NFU Mutual, Wells

Retail / Hospitality Business of the Year

Sponsored by Old Mill

Community Enterprise of the Year

Sponsored by Burton Sweet Taste of Mendip Award Sponsored by Swan Hotel, Wells

Customer Service Excellence Award Sponsored by Melhuish & Saunders

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wellsvoice

March 2020

17

n NEWS Opportunity to talk about grief

n FROM THE TOWN HALL

Steps to improve communication IMPROVING communication with residents is a priority for Wells City Council. Three initiatives have been launched to keep in touch more effectively: 1. A new Facebook page called Wells City Council 2. Welcoming members of the community on to working groups to advise councillors 3. A project to reinvigorate the council’s website Working on these initiatives is Alex Westwood, an existing member of staff who has taken on the role of Communications Assistant. “I was tasked with establishing online platforms where we can better connect the community with the council, promote the good works of the public and give everyone the chance to have their voice heard,” said Alex. “What a success our new Facebook page been since it was launched at the beginning of February. In our first week alone, we saw a reach of 5,000 users

for one event – the NHS’s public consultation about the proposed closure of St Andrews Ward on the Priory Health Park. By the time this is published we expect to have a follower count of more than 400 users. “Next we will overhaul our website, giving clearer and more concise information while delivering a more user-friendly experience. We will also be looking to use other social media such as Twitter and Instagram – as a means to engage better with our younger residents. “I am excited to be putting these ideas into action and feel privileged to be able to work closer with the Wells community.” Residents are welcome at meetings of the full council and its committees. To make it easier for them to follow what’s happening a screen has been placed in the council chamber on which each meeting’s agenda is projected. Councillor Philip Welch p.welch@wcc.wells.gov.uk

Top, city councillors with the screen which allows residents to follow agendas during meetings, and above, Alex Westwood

‘What a success our new Facebook page has been since it was launched’

Meeting on 5G technology and better connectivity A PUBLIC meeting is being organised about the need for better broadband and mobile phone signal in Wells, how it can be met, and concerns about the safety for health of 5G technology. The venue will be the

ballroom of Wells Town Hall from 10am-noon on Saturday, March 28. It is being organised by Wells City Council which has invited a panel who can answer questions from residents. They are: Wells MP James

Heappey, a Somerset GP who thinks 5G is a danger to health, a physicist with expert knowledge of radio wave technology and representatives from Openreach and Wells Chamber of Commerce and Tourism. Entry is free.

WHEN people think of bereavement, they think of someone grieving for a loved one who has died, but bereavement covers grief of all kinds of loss. In addition to someone close dying – and that can be a person or a pet – some examples of grief are the breakdown of a relationship; the loss of employment; and friends or family moving away. Any or all of these emotions may be felt: shock while trying to grasp what has happened; overwhelming sadness and loneliness; anger at the person or situation; guilt about things that were or were not said or done; anxiety, struggling in everyday life and worrying unnecessarily about things; and being distracted or forgetful, finding it difficult to concentrate. People who are feeling any of these are invited to the Bereavement Cafe at St Thomas’ Church in St Thomas Street, Wells, where they will find a warm welcome and people to listen. The first of three Bereavement Cafes in 2020 will be held on Monday, March 2, from 2pm-3.30pm.

Caving award THE Wookey Hole tourist attraction has won a top award for its Wild Wookey caving experience. It was awarded Gold in the Active and Sporting Experience category in this year’s South West England Tourism Excellence Awards at the ceremony in Exeter Cathedral on February 6.

SITUATIONS VACANT

Stoberry House & Garden Stoberry Park, Wells, Somerset BA5 3LD www.stoberryhouse.co.uk Stoberry House is looking for a housekeeper to attend to rooms for three hours on a Saturday and three hours on a Sunday, for three or four weekends a month. Rate of pay: £15 per hour Please email stay@stoberry-park.co.uk or call Frances on 01749 672906 for interview appointments

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wellsvoice

18

March 2020

n ON THE BEAT

Helping to provide best possible service HELLO, my name is Hannah Hood and I am the new Police Community Support Officer (PCSO) Supervisor for Wells, Glastonbury and Street. I am one of five PCSO Supervisors based across East Somerset from Frome across to Chard. We are part of the Neighbourhood Beat Team and our primary role is supporting the rest of the beat team to provide the best possible service to our communities. I started my policing career in Humberside Police as a Police Service Volunteer in 2011 in the Anti-Social Behaviour Team and then as a Special Constable based near Hull. I joined Avon and Somerset Constabulary in 2017 as a PCSO in Shepton Mallet, and I started my current role in November 2019. I have been welcomed warmly into the beat teams across Wells, Glastonbury and Street. Now I have found my feet a bit I will be getting out and about more

News from the local policing team with PCSO Supervisor Hannah Hood around the towns and attending community meetings as much as I can. As well as still holding my PCSO powers, I am the direct line manager for your local PCSOs

and I hope they are already feeling the benefit of this support through having more one-toone contact with a supervisor. I am taking workload off of the neighbourhood sergeant to allowing him to spend more time outside the police station and be more proactive than ever before. For instance, Temporary Sergeant Darren Pearson has been able to go out and do ‘days of action’ with the beat managers to tackle priorities in the community. I am able now to provide support to our valuable police volunteers, and plan to get involved in our community Speedwatches soon. Overall, my aim as a new PCSO Supervisor is to deliver an even better service to our communities through supporting our police officers and PCSOs to feel more empowered to serve our communities. The Neighbourhood Team are aware that recently in Wells there has been a rise in reports of

vehicle crime, with car handles being tried or windows being broken in order to take property from vehicles. This month we want to include some crime prevention advice to help you protect your property. Please do not leave valuables on show in your vehicle as this removes an incentive, and also ensure that your car is locked and all windows are secure when you leave it. Even jackets can be desirable in the cold weather months. Make sure you consider keeping your car keys out of sight when at home to help remove any opportunities for someone to gain easy access to your vehicle. The less easy and beneficial the crime seems the less likely someone is to commit it. If unfortunately you do experience any incidents or see anything you feel is suspicious, please contact us on 101, online on our website, or 999 in an emergency.

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wellsvoice

March 2020

19

n NEWS

Local artists encouraged to submit competition entries WELLS Art Contemporary (WAC) has announced that this year’s exhibition of international contemporary art is returning to Wells Cathedral, from July 11 until August 9. Entry is now open for the visual arts competition, which increases in global recognition each year. The deadline for online submissions for WAC 2020 is Thursday, April 16. “We would love to see an increase in the number of local shortlisted artists,” said Paddy O’Hagan, chair of WAC. “It would be great to celebrate the wealth of artistic talent that we have in the county in this iconic Somerset building.” Last year’s exhibition of shortlisted works included 98 pieces selected from an overall submission of 1,800 entries. It was curated throughout the whole Cathedral, including 13 additional fine art site specific installations. The collaboration is a surprisingly natural one. The Dean of Wells, the Very Rev Dr John Davies, said: “When Wells Cathedral was built in the Middle Ages it was thoroughly modern and highly innovative. It was the first cathedral to embody what was then the new style, Gothic.” There was a footfall of more than 25,000 to the Cathedral during the exhibition last year and the organisers are excited at the prospects for 2020.

Picture: Claus Bach

Exhibits last year in Wells Cathedral, including Unknown Boy 2 by Somerset’s Lucy Glendinning, top “This is such an amazing opportunity for any artist,” said Paddy. “Following the success of last year, and knowing how word spreads, we fully expect the

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number of visitors to increase even further this summer.” The competition is open to artists over the age of 18. Up to four works may be entered, in any medium – painting, sculpture, drawing, printmaking, photography, installation or video. The entry fee is £15 per work for the exhibition and £20 per work for the installation. This year WAC has collaborated with art supplies retailer CassArt to offer a discount to every artist that enters. The prizes for this year’s competition include a top cash prize of £2,000; the opportunity to exhibit in a Central London gallery and a two-week solo exhibition at the Andelli Art Gallery, Wells. Full details and online applications are available via wac.artopps.co.uk.

Welsh theme to evening service AS March 1 (St David’s Day) falls this year on a Sunday, St Thomas’ Church in Wells has decided to organise an evening service with a strong Welsh theme. A special choir is being assembled to lead the singing in four-part harmony of famous Welsh hymns such as Cwm Rhondda (Guide me, O thou great Redeemer) and Calon Lan, the hymn sung by Welsh rugby fans at international matches. The choir will also be singing a hymn in Welsh that is not known on this side of the Severn Bridge. Short commentaries will be given on the life of St David as well as the impact of the translation of the Bible into Welsh. The order of service will be in English and Welsh. All are welcome to attend and take part as they wish in either language. The service begins at 6.30pm (Sunday, March 1).

Warm acclaim THE Choristers of Wells Cathedral Choir received a standing ovation after their performance of Benjamin Britten’s A Ceremony of Carols on February 1. So many people had wanted to see the performance in the Cathedral Quire that extra seats had to be put out. A Ceremony of Carols, composed in 1942, has 11 movements, one of which is for solo harp. The harpist on this occasion was Ruth Faber, and the conductor was Jeremy Cole.

Email: news@wellsvoice.co.uk

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n NEWS

Showroom given refreshing revamp

A NEW-LOOK kitchen and bathroom showroom in Wells is offering fresh choices for people considering home improvements. The Mercia Kitchens and Bathrooms showroom on the corner of Broad Street and Queen Street has been refreshed to make it more welcoming and a better showcase for some of the products the company offers. Specially invited guests will be shown around during forthcoming open days – and there will be a ten per cent customer discount on any order placed in March. “We’ve made more use of the windows by opening up the interior, and have aimed to encourage people in and make it feel more welcoming,” said Graham Lake, who runs Mercia with his son-in-law Ethan Edwards. “We’re very pleased with how it has come out.”

Graham Lake, left, and Ethan Edwards in the Mercia Kitchens and Bathrooms showroom in Broad Street

To advertise, contact Andy on 01749 675157

The old display units which partitioned the showroom have been taken down to be replaced by carefully arranged examples of a modern working kitchen, an en-suite, a family bathroom and a cloakroom. A lot of the range on offer is new to Mercia. “This now really feels like ours,” said Ethan. Graham and Ethan took over Mercia just over a year ago, and are pleased with how things have gone since then. “Wells has welcomed us,” said Graham. “We were looking to be part of the community and we feel part of the community. “We’ve had some really good projects and some really good responses. We try to offer value in terms of quality as well as customer service. It’s that package of trying to make sure the customer is happy every time.”

Email: sales@wellsvoice.co.uk

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n NEWS Group support for women

Hundreds of people took part in or lined the route to watch the Wells Lantern Parade on January 25. The parade, organised by Project Factory, was led by the Jamma de Samba band and saw an amazing array of lanterns light up the evening. It was followed by a Ceilidh & Burns Night Supper at Cedars Hall.

Community Day funding boost THE second Wake Up Wells Community Day has received endorsement from the National Lottery Community Fund in the form of a funding grant. The 2020 event, being organised by local Community Interest Company Project Factory, which is building on the success of the Wake Up Wells initiative, will be held in Wells Cathedral and on Cathedral Green on Saturday, September 12. Last year’s Community Day saw more than 120 groups participating, with three choirs, musical theatre, dancers, a jazz group and a number of school music groups performing in the

Cathedral. A number of craft activities and workshops were also popular with local residents who turned up to the event in their hundreds to find out what groups and events were available to them locally. The aim is to make 2020’s event even better – helped by the National Lottery Community Fund award of £7,950. Kirstie Harris, c0-director of Project Factory with Emma Lefevre, said: “Project Factory’s aim is to share knowledge and create potential in our community. It’s fantastic news that the National Lottery Community Fund has recognised the importance of what we’re

n IN DAYS GONE BY

trying to do here in Wells by awarding us this funding”. A new addition to the line-up for this year will be a Community Supper which will run in partnership with Wells Community Supper 2020, Sustainable Wells and the Connect Centre. It will be held in the Nave of the Cathedral and be followed by a Candlelit Camine through the Cathedral to end the day. Any interested exhibitors, community groups, potential volunteers and sponsors can find out more about the Community Day and how to get involved via the Project Factory website at www.projectfactory.uk.

ENDOMETRIOSIS affects one in ten women, but many simply put up with the symptoms, believing their painful periods are normal and not realising that there may be something more going on. Endometriosis is a condition where cells similar to the ones in the lining of the uterus are found elsewhere in the body. These cells react with the changes in hormones during the menstrual cycle which can lead to inflammation, pain and the formation of scar tissue. Symptoms include painful and heavy periods, fatigue / low energy, painful sex, digestive issues and bowel pain, bladder pain and fertility problems. Women in the Wells area who may be affected can connect with others at support groups run by the charity Endometriosis UK, the nearest being in Bristol and Taunton. “Living with a chronic health condition can be isolating,” said one of the Bristol support group facilitators, Sarah Mannion, a women’s functional health coach. She added: “Strategies to optimise diet, sleep and stress management can make a big difference to the symptoms experienced.” More information and details about the support groups are available on the website endometriosis-uk.org

With Clare Blackmore

City’s cake-making expertise recognised by royals THE news in last month’s Wells Voice that Zoe Burmester of Sugar Street Studios in Wells has been named as one of the UK’s top cake artists comes as no surprise, but the cake making tradition has been seen before in Wells, and Zoe is carrying on that legacy. In the 1960s, Chubbs Bakeries were based at 11 Broad Street, Wells, with their headquarters in Street. They were chosen in 1961 by Buckingham Palace to make one of the four christening cakes for Viscount Linley, the son of HRH Princess Margaret and Lord Snowdon. The cake was made by Mr

Wells has a history of fancy cake making. Jeffords plied their trade in the early 1900s Graham Chubb and the recipe that was used is a family secret dating back to 1900 when the business was founded.

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Graham and his father Clifford took the cake to London by train and were met at Paddington Station by a chauffeur-driven Daimler which took them to Buckingham Palace and the palatial kitchens to deliver the cake. The cake was covered in white icing picked out with a very pale blue. The centre-piece was a stork, and on two sides there was a stork motif done in freehand by Graham. Around the base and the top of the cake were rows of miniature blue dots totalling approximately 5,000. The cake was photographed before its journey and the photograph was the centre of a

window display in their premises in Broad Street. In 1962, Chubbs made the christening cake for the Earl of St Andrews, the son of the Duke and Duchess of Kent. It weighed 30lbs and was finished in Wedgewood blue, surmounted by a cradle made of sugar in the form of a gondola In April 1963, Graham Chubb also made a four-tier wedding cake for Princess Alexandra and Mr Angus Ogilvy. The cake weighed 70lbs and was sixsided and delicately decorated in lattice work surmounted by a sugar temple. The recipe used was the same family one as for Viscount Linley’s cake.

Email: news@wellsvoice.co.uk

Prostate cancer: What you need to know Prostate cancer has recently benefitted from increased visibility due to highprofile figures, such as Stephen Fry and Elton John, opening up about their diagnosis and life after treatment. However, with no national screening From left to right: Professor Mark Beresford, programme in Consultant Clinical Oncologist plus Jon place, many men McFarlane and Jaspal Phull, Consultant choose to defer Urological Surgeons from the Bath Prostate thinking about the Centre at BMI Bath Clinic subject until the condition becomes aggressive or symptoms interrupt everyday life. Resident urology consultant surgeons and oncologists from the Bath Prostate Centre at BMI Bath Clinic explain what men should know about prostate cancer and how new technology is increasing the safety of prostate treatment. What is prostate cancer; is it really that common? Around 130 men are diagnosed with prostate cancer every day in the UK¹. It tends to affect over 50s, although younger men can get prostate cancer too. Only men have a prostate. It’s a gland that’s normally the size and shape of a walnut, and it sits below the bladder and around the urethra – the tube that men pass urine and semen through. In some cases, the cancer is aggressive and can grow quickly. It can also spread to other body areas, most commonly the bones or lymph nodes. A family history of prostate cancer; and certain other cancers, can increase the risk. Whilst age and race are well-established links also, there is emerging evidence about risks that may be lifestyle related. What are the symptoms? At the Bath Prostate Centre, we offer a prostate assessment clinic to get to the source of associated symptoms quickly. These can include difficulty or a frequent urge to urinate, signs of blood in urine or semen, painful ejaculation and urination and problems gaining an erection. Not all these symptoms mean a man has cancer, which is why careful assessment is advised. Finally, some men do not have any symptoms but are concerned about their risk of cancer or know someone with prostate cancer. Our specialists can discuss the need and value of PSA or other testing. How is it diagnosed? Often, the first test will be physical, where the physician uses a gloved finger to assess any abnormalities in the texture, shape or size of the gland. A blood test may also be recommended, looking at the level of PSA, a substance that’s naturally produced by the prostate gland.

To find out more information, call 0808 101 0337 or visit bmihealthcare.co.uk/bath

If an abnormality is discovered, you may be referred for additional tests. This could include an ultrasound probe to create a picture of your prostate gland, or an MRI scan to identify suspicious areas of the prostate that require further evaluation. There has also been a great deal of research into other tests that may be relevant to a small number of men. It is possible you will be offered a prostate biopsy, where small samples are taken from your prostate with a needle, to examine it for disease. If cancer is confirmed, a pathologist will determine how aggressive it is. A scale called the Gleason grade is used to rate the degree of aggressiveness (from 6 to 10 where 6 is the lowest risk prostate cancer). How can it be treated? The treatment options available to you will vary depending on a huge number of circumstances such as how far your cancer has spread, how quickly it is growing and other factors such as your health. When prostate cancer is detected at the earliest stages, there are three treatment approaches. This may include regular checkups and PSA tests for ultra-low risk cancer, while for higher-risk cancer that has not spread, you may be offered minimally invasive surgery or carefully planned radiotherapy. Surgery seeks to remove the prostate in its entirety. External beam radiotherapy involves targeted radiation to the prostate to kill cancer cells. The goal is to minimise the risk of the cancer spreading. Your specialist can help you to choose the treatment most suited to you, including any novel treatments. If your prostate cancer has already reached a more advanced stage, you may be offered alternative treatment options such as hormone therapy or chemotherapy. What’s new? Are there ways of reducing the risks associated with treatment? Radiation therapy Prostate is effective in targeting and Space OAR treating prostate cancer, but as with any procedure there are potential side effects. These High Dose Region can be mild and Rectum go away on their own, but for some patients they can last for years after treatment is completed and profoundly impact quality of life. Side effects can include rectal pain and bleeding, chronic diarrhoea, urinary urgency/leakage, and erectile dysfunction. To potentially reduce these side effects after treatment we are delighted to offer an innovative treatment named SpaceOAR Hydrogel. What is SpaceOAR Hydrogel? SpaceOAR Hydrogel is an absorbable hydrogel that temporarily creates space between the prostate and the rectum, reducing the dose delivered to the rectum during prostate radiation therapy. It has already been used to help over 50,000 prostate cancer patients worldwide² plus it has been shown to reduce the risk of side effects such as rectal bleeding, bowel dysfunction and incontinence plus can help to maintain sexual potency.³ ⁴ ⁵ 1. Cancer Research UK, https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/health-professional/cancerstatistics/statistics-by-cancer-type/prostate-cancer#heading-Zero 2. Data on file with Boston Scientific. 3. Mariados N, Sylvester J, Shah D, et al. Hydrogel spacer prospective multicenter randomized controlled pivotal trial: Dosimetric and clinical effects of perirectal spacer application in men undergoing prostate image guided intensity modulated radiation therapy. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys. 2015 Aug 1;92(5):971-7. 4. Hamstra DA, Mariados N, Sylvester J, et al. Continued benefit to rectal separation for prostate radiation therapy: Final results of a phase III trial. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys. 2017 Apr 1;97(5):976-85. 5. Karsh LI, Gross ET, Pieczonka CM, et al. Absorbable hydrogel spacer use in prostate radiotherapy: A comprehensive review of phase 3 clinical trial published data. Urology. 2018 May;115:39-44.

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n NEWS

Judges well versed in writing craft WITH just a month to go until the opening of the 2020 Wells Festival of Literature writers’ competitions, three of the judges have been confirmed. The previous Open Poetry judge, Simon Armitage, may be a hard act to follow but Jo Shapcott, Queen’s Gold Medal holder, poet, lecturer and editor, is well up to the task. Jo has won the National Poetry Competition, the Commonwealth Poetry Prize, the Costa Book of the Year Award, a Forward Poetry Prize and the Cholmondeley Award.

Fleur Hitchcock and Duncan Minshull, two of this year’s judges

She brings a wealth of experience to the challenge of selecting the most striking pieces submitted from across the globe. Nearly 1,000 poems were received last year and this year’s winner will take away a prize of £1,000, placing Wells festival’s prize money within the top ten of British poetry competitions. The Book for Children judge

will be local children’s writer Fleur Hitchcock. Her debut novel Shrunk! was a Sunday Times book of the week, since when she has never looked back. Now she has 16 more books for young people to her name and her work as a children’s bookseller makes her ideally placed to know what goes down best with young people. Finally, this year’s Short Story judge will be Duncan Minshull. Duncan combined his own writing with over 20 years as a senior BBC Radios 3 and 4 producer and fiction editor overseeing programmes such as Book Of The Week, Book at Bedtime, The Essay, and Short Story. Renowned for selecting the best short contemporary fiction to compile striking anthologies of stories, his sharp eye will make him ideally suited to selecting the winners of the short story class of the competition. The competitions will open for entries on April 1, with entry details on the website www. wellsfestivalofliterature.org.uk. Writers then have until midnight on June 30 to submit their work, with 2.5 per cent of each of the £6 entry fees going towards the festival’s education projects, providing opportunities in local schools for writers and inspiring the poets and storytellers of the future.

About Trees exhibits FLOW Axe East 1900 diptych by Geoff Dunlop, left, and Trees Etching by Heather Wallace

Trees the focus of new exhibition HERITAGE Courtyard Gallery and Studios are celebrating spring with their new exhibition, About Trees. The exhibition showcases an array of mixed media works by talented studio and Somerset artists. Painting, prints, ceramics, willow, hand-made books, furniture and bentwood will all be on display in the honour and celebration of trees.

These works are a result of being immersed in the landscape and are not only a record of the passage of time, they also demonstrate how each artist has embraced nature as an active agent in creating their work. About Trees will open on Saturday, March 21, and run until Wednesday, April 14. The gallery, in Heritage Courtyard, Sadler Street, is open daily from 10am-4pm (closed Sundays).

Art, Australia and Captain Cook LOCAL art historian Joanna Cobb’s latest art history talk – Antipodean Encounters: landscape, art, peoples, identity – will coincide with the 250th anniversary of Captain Cook’s arrival in Australia. The talk will take place in Seager Hall, Wells, on Thursday,

March 19, from 2pm-4pm. The cost is £10 for one person or £18 for two people, which includes comprehensive handouts and light refreshments. For more information or to reserve a place, contact Joanna on 01458 832178 or ericjoanna@ waitrose.com

Romulus and Remus tickets on sale IT has been confirmed that the 2020 Italian Festival Romulus and Remus will take place on Sunday, July 5, at Palace Farm, Silver Street, Wells. Tickets are now on sale:

adults £15, children aged five to ten £10, children under five free. Contact Tony D’ovidio on 07770 994652, Tony Guidi on 07976 511680 or Dawn Payne on 07977 627443.

Got News? Call 07906 499655

Email: news@wellsvoice.co.uk

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March 2020

n NEWS Show is a real crowd-pleaser Review: Hairspray Wells Blue School HIT musical Hairspray was brilliantly staged in the Blue School’s latest production. A dazzling spectacle from start to finish, the cast, the costumes, the choreography and the band all contributed to a great night’s entertainment. The solo singers were all strong, and even the youngest cast members spoke and sang with great confidence. Scarlett Schofield as lead Tracy Turnblad, the teenager who becomes an unlikely dance star in 1960s Baltimore, was outstanding, with fine acting skills as well as wonderful vocals. By the end of the final number, as balloons filled Milton Hall, adding to the party atmosphere, the audience were on their feet to give all involved a well-deserved standing ovation. Andy Vallis

CAN YOU GIVE A CAT A HOME?

Introducing Simba... SIMBA is a 6-year-old female who may not be as pretty as some cats we home but she has a beautiful loving nature which is much more important. Also you will never mix her up with any other black and white cats in your street! She has taken a while to settle but now she is happier she is flourishing. She has particularly taken a liking to her fosterers 9-year-old son. Simba is on a diet as she does need to lose some weight. We can advise you though on the best food to feed her. She would benefit from a quieter home that definitely should not have any other cats. Considering

Wells MP given new Forces role WELLS MP James Heappey has been appointed Minister for the Armed Forces in Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s Cabinet reshuffle. Mr Heappey had previously been Minister for Defence Procurement.

Beat surgery

the affection she has shown to children it would be nice to home her with some cat friendly children but this is not essential. Please do call Emma on 01458 850823 if you can offer Simba a home.

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

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A POLICE Beat Surgery drop-in session is being held at Wells Library on Wednesday, March 18, from 11am-12.30pm. Members of the Neighbourhood Policing Team will be available to discuss issues and concerns, and pass on crime prevention advice.

Movies concert WELLS City Band will be presenting a Music From the Movies concert at Wells Town Hall on Saturday, March 14, at 7.30pm. The concert is in aid of Wells United Church. Tickets £5 at the door. There will be a raffle and refreshments.

Potter Ella en as guild show A NEW range of ceramics is now on sale at the Somerset Guild of Craftsmen created by potter Ella Phillips. The bowls and plates can be admired and bought at the gallery and shop in Broad Street, Wells, behind Pickwicks cafe. “It’s a real privilege to be part of such a long established crafts organisation, with the focus being the promotion of local craft practitioners such as myself,” said Ella. “Crafts and applied arts fluctuate in their popularity, however currently there seems to be a really strong appreciation for all things hand-made, with so many people wanting to have a go themselves. “So much pleasure can be gained from both the initial process of craft-based activities along with the satisfaction of a tangible object at the end.” Ella discovered a love for the versatile nature of clay while on the BTEC Art and Design course at Strode College, Street.

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Ella P

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The Hairspray cast and band

njoying experimenting wcases her latest work

Phillips at work on another piece of pottery

After university, she gained more experience at the RB Ceramics pottery in Bristol and as an apprentice at the Leach Pottery in St Ives. She currently works a couple of days a week at Bath Potters Supplies near Radstock, and teaches beginners and sometimes hosts pottery activities at Somerset Rural Life Museum in Glastonbury. “My current work has taken inspiration from all of my pottery experiences, working now in a terracotta clay from Stoke-onTrent, and using the country pottery tradition of Slipware and for some pieces sgraffito,” she said. “I enjoy continuing to experiment. At the moment I’m having some fun with some natural ochre that my boyfriend collected from an old mine in the Forest of Dean. “I really want to find and work with some local ochre which will be the next phase to this creative journey.”

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Email: news@wellsvoice.co.uk

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March 2020

n NEW

Volunteer drivers wanted to get patients to appointments By Emma James AN appeal has been made for volunteer drivers in the Wells area who can help transport patients to hospital for their appointments. Mendip Community Transport provides transport services to individuals and groups throughout the Mendip and Sedgemoor area, and the Hospital Car Service is a key part of their operation. Last year alone, their volunteer drivers undertook more than 7,500 journeys, delivering members of the community to a range of hospitals for appointments. The organisation is on the lookout for new drivers to join the team. Volunteers offer up their time and the use of

Alan Tucker has been a volunteer driver for the Hospital Car Service for 13 years

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their own vehicle in return for expenses and the knowledge that they have made a real difference to someone in need. Alan Tucker, from Wells, has been a volunteer driver for the Hospital Car Service for 13 years. He said: “I like driving and meeting new people and I’ve met some really interesting people who have lived and worked all over the world. I once drove a man who came from Dagenham. In conversation it came out that he had designed the unique rear light cluster on the Ford Cortina.” Alan also added that drivers need to be sensitive as some passengers can be feeling nervous about going to hospital. “But at least they don’t have to worry about hospital parking and I can help them find the right department as I have maps of all the hospitals.” Faith Stevens, from Mendip Community Transport, said: “At present, there is a particular need in the Wells area, so if anyone has some spare time and is interested in joining the Hospital Car Team, we would love to hear from you.” If interested, call 01749 880613 or fill out the form on the Mendip Community Transport website.

Cake to mark cafe’s first year THE Coffee Stop pop up cafe in St Thomas Church, Wells, celebrates its first anniversary on March 3. The cafe is open every Tuesday from 9am-noon, and has been extremely popular. Staffed by volunteers, it attracts a wide number of people of all ages and walks of life, from toddlers who enjoy the play area and toys, to professionals who take a laptop to work in the beautiful church surroundings and pensioners who enjoy catching up with friends. To help celebrate on Tuesday, March 3, there will be a birthday cake for all to share.

Call for awards nominations CHAIR of Somerset County Council Councillor Nigel Taylor is calling for nominations for his annual Community Awards. Each year he presents awards to those who have made an outstanding contribution to their community and he is asking the public to come forward with their suggestions. “I’d like to hear about as many potential award-winners as possible from across the county,” he said. Nominations can be made by completing an online form at bit.ly/37iINJK and must be submitted be 5pm on May 12.

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Flexible options to cover boiler costs A NEW boiler may be one of the biggest household purchases that you make but it doesn’t always come when you expect it or at the most convenient time – imagine the boiler breaking down in the middle of winter, when it’s freezing cold, and then finding out you need to replace it altogether. Working with Worcester Bosch and Hitachi Capital, Tincknell Heating can offer flexible payment options that are designed to help you get the benefit of a more efficient heating system now by spreading the cost over a period of time to suit your budget.

As a Worcester Bosch Accredited Installer, we can also offer the best manufacturers backed guarantee to ensure that you can stay worry free for up to 12 years (depending on boiler type installed). If you’re thinking of having a new boiler and looking to set a manageable budget, our payment options may offer more flexibility than you think. We can offer 0% interest over 2 years or you could spread the cost even more up to 10 years with 9.9% APR. To arrange a free of charge quotation, give our office team a call on 01749 678828 or email heating@tincknells.com

Email: sales@wellsvoice.co.uk

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n NEWS Quiz night and Easter bingo

A music therapy session at The Lawrence Centre

Music therapy sponsor appeal WELLS Dementia Action Alliance is appealing for businesses or individuals to sponsor music therapy sessions at Heads Up and The Lawrence Centre. Music has many benefits for people living with dementia, including helping to reduce

anxiety and depression, helping to maintain speech and language and enhancing quality of life. It also has a positive impact on carers. The alliance pays musicians to run monthly sessions at the Heads Up mental health charity in South Horrington and

Time for a New Boiler?

The Lawrence Day Centre in Chamberlain Street, Wells. The musicians charge much less than their usual rate, so the cost of sponsorship would be just £50 a month, or £600 a year. If interested, call Philip Welch on 07715 770454 or email philipwelch21@btinternet.com.

0% Interest

GORGONS Carnival Club has two events coming up in March. The monthly quiz takes place at The Britannia Inn, Bath Road, Wells, on Sunday, March 15, at 7.30pm. The cost is £2 a player for teams of up to four. There is also an Easter bingo being held at Chewton Mendip Village Hall on Saturday, March 28. Doors open at 6.30pm. More information from Shelly Ford on 07894 078999.

Music milestone THE Lightning Seeds, The Coral, Judge Jules and British Sea Power are among dozens of acts appearing at The Godney Gathering’s 10th anniversary event this year. It takes place at Garslade Farm, Godney, on July 17 and 18. Tickets are available at www. thegodneygathering.com

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Email: news@wellsvoice.co.uk

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n COMMERCIAL SENSE

March 2020

With Jane Bowe of Probusiness accountants

Sometimes it pays to pause for thought “A goal without a plan is just a wish” (Antoine de Saint-Exupéry) SOMETIMES, I ponder awhile before I know what Commercial Sense should be about. This month, however, it was gifted to me while enjoying a couple of days in Devon with Mr B. We were in a delightful coffee shop which was nearly full, when three people came in. The room was long and narrow in shape but there was just room in the middle for a single line of two tables. One of the two tables was actually meant for four, but the narrowness of the cafe precluded it being used as such. The trio consisted of a middle-aged couple and elderly parent – a configuration Mr B and I are extremely familiar with, having taken single elderly parents around for many years. Now, the poor daughter of the elderly parent went into a

mild panic. Clearly there was nowhere for them to sit together and mother obviously couldn’t stand for long. So, seeing the two tables in the middle of the cafe, she began what I can only call a ‘Pickfords’ Manoeuvre’, removing chairs and shoving the two tables together end to end. She then placed one chair at one end of the tables for her husband and one for her beside her parent at the other. During this operation, Elderly Parent and Husband looked on, bemused. Only when they all sat down could the poor woman see that she and mother were sitting shoulder to shoulder at one end of the tables while husband was a good three metres away at the far end. Her strategy clearly hadn’t worked as she hoped. I really felt for this lady, because I could, in a moment of acute anxiety for the well-being of an elderly loved one, so easily have done something similar.

Now, the reason that this is appropriate for this column is that in business, we should all do what this poor person couldn’t do... we should take time to plan. Often, a knee-jerk reaction to a problem can leave us in hot water. We all need to be able to adopt a ‘planning head’ which we can use while we are away from the hectic atmosphere of our place of work. In other words, to take time aside from our businesses to look at where we are, where we have come from and where we intend to go. If clear thought and planning isn’t your strong point, I would suggest seeking advice from a good business planner to act as a wise sounding board for you. If there isn’t one working with your accountant, then ask around for recommendations. Sometimes aims and aspirations can be clear, but we aren’t entirely sure how to reach them. It generally doesn’t help if we spend too

much time pondering – because time is money when you own and run your own business. That’s why I suggest seeking help. If you are a natural organiser, you may have no problems at all doing this kind of planning – but you need to make the time to undertake it. If you ignore future planning, you are likely to find that your company doesn’t make the progress you had hoped for, or perhaps even slips back. Some ideas can be so simple, but without standing back, we just don’t see them – like the poor lady in the coffee shop. If only she had just pulled a chair across so they could all share one table… So, just as in daily life, it makes sense to stand back, take a deep breath and assess the situation before taking precipitate action. Take care, and good luck with your planning.

accountants

Planning ahead can help you find the right balance in your business.

This requires clear thought and planning. If this isn’t your strong point, you can always call us for a free no-obligation chat about your finances.

To advertise, contact Andy on 01749 675157

Email: sales@wellsvoice.co.uk

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n NEWS

29

Legal guidance with Chubb Bulleid

Progress on project to revamp chapel THE Lord Lieutenant of Somerset, Annie Maw, has agreed to become patron of the project to restore the Bubwith Chapel at Wells Almshouses. Trustees aim to refurbish the chapel and upgrade facilities for the benefit of residents and the wider community. Plans prepared by Marcus Chantrey of Benjamin & Beauchamp Architects have been submitted to Mendip District Council, along with a historical report on the chapel written by leading expert Jerry Sampson, and a report on the stained glass by Wells company Holy Well Glass. The project has attracted wide support, with many offers of help, including pledges of money and other assistance. Local companies and individuals have offered some attractive gifts for a grand summer draw. Tickets will be on sale in late May, and an event is planned at the almshouses in

August when the draw will take place. The majority of funds for the project are expected to come from various charitable trusts and several have already been contacted. The almshouses have also commissioned architects for the redevelopment of the old mortuary building into further almshouse accommodation, and an ecological survey has been completed. The next step will be for Trustees to agree the proposed design of the building, apply for planning permission and undertake consultation with interested parties. It has been agreed that the planned new almshouse will be known as Harpers – subject to gaining official permission – as the development is being funded from the capital receipt received from the sale of an almshouse named Harpers which was located in Chamberlain Street.

Emotional roller-coaster of music MOZART’S choral masterpiece, Requiem, and Haydn’s dramatic Insanae et vanae curae will transport the audience through a powerful range of emotions at Wells Cathedral Oratorio Society’s spring concert in March. The internationally acclaimed English Symphony Orchestra, led by violinist Zoë Beyers, will accompany the choir at Wells Cathedral on Saturday, March 28. The soloists are Alexandra Oomens (Soprano), Helen Charlston (Alto), James Oxley (Tenor) and Grant Doyle (Bass). The conductor is Jeremy Cole. Cole said: “We are delighted to be welcoming the wonderful English Symphony Orchestra for this concert, and their performance of Haydn’s grand and exuberant London Symphony will be a lovely opening to the programme.” He added: “Mozart’s beloved Requiem, surely one of the greatest pieces of choral music, was written in declining health just months before his own

Wells Cathedral Oratorio Society will be accompanied by the English Symphony Orchestra for the March spring concert death. This is one of his most heartfelt and haunting works, containing moments of huge drama contrasted with extreme pathos.” Haydn’s popular, sacred choral piece moves between the ‘raging cares’ of humankind to uplifting hopes for salvation. Tickets: £12-£28 online at www.wcos.org, by phone (01749 834483) or at the Wells Cathedral Shop (01749 672773).

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If someone dies without making a will, the amount of their estate inherited by their partner, children and other relatives is set by Act of Parliament

A will is important to ensure your estate is inherited as you wish By Deborah Cable

SPOUSES or civil partners with children are now able to inherit £270,000 from intestate estates. If someone dies without making a will – “dying intestate” – the amount of their estate inherited by their partner, children and other relatives is set by Act of Parliament. Under the intestacy rules, if there are no children then the partner will inherit the entire estate. If there are children, partners will inherit all of the deceased’s personal property, the first £270,000 of the estate and half of the remaining estate – the other half will go to the children, either absolutely or on a statutory trust if the child or children is under 18. At least every five years, the

government raises the amount partners can inherit in line with the consumer price index. In October 2014, the amount was set at £250,000 and was increased to £270,000 from February 6, 2020. This update was originally due in October 2019. Unfortunately, under the intestacy rules unmarried partners cannot inherit and this does not look set to change.

‘Under the intestacy rules unmarried partners cannot inherit’ It still remains important to have a legally valid will to ensure that your estate is inherited according to your wishes and to avoid unintended consequences as a result of intestacy. n Deborah Cable is a solicitor with Chubb Bulleid, which has offices in Wells, Street and Somerton. Phone 01749 836100.

Offices in Wells, Street and Somerton Tel: 01749 836100

Personal legal services for you, your business and your family www.chubb-bulleid.co.uk Email: news@wellsvoice.co.uk

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First for Ros with liveryman honour WELLS Theatre Festival’s artistic director, Ros Johnson, has become the first female liveryman of the Worshipful Company of Dyers in its 900year history. The Worshipful Company of Dyers can trace its roots back to 1188 when it is recorded as a guild, overseeing the dyeing industry in London, and it first became a company by Royal Charter granted by Henry VI in 1471. Nowadays, the Dyers’ Company, which is preparing to celebrate the 550th anniversary of the granting of its charter, has only a minority of liverymen who are involved in the dyeing industry. Its main focus is charitable activities. This year the company has awarded grants totalling £650,000. The majority of these grants go to schools and universities, along with a wide range of other causes. There are currently 139 Liverymen in the company and one becomes a liveryman by invitation only. Ros attended an event at the Inn Keepers Hall in London on Wednesday, February 5, where

Ros Johnson at the Worshipful Company of Dyers’ event at Inn Keepers Hall she was formally inducted into the company. She said: “I am so honoured to have been invited to be the first female liveryman of the Worshipful Company of Dyers. It has a long and distinguished history of charitable work. “I am looking forward to meeting fellow liverymen and as a teacher, I am proud to be able to offer my skills and expertise to the schools and universities that the charity supports.” This year’s Wells Theatre Festival takes place from July 9-12.

Author in book signing session SOMERSET author Justin Newland will be signing copies of his latest novel, The Coronation, at WH Smith in Wells on Wednesday, March 11, from

11am-2pm. Set during the Great Enlightenment, The Coronation is a secret history of the event that shaped the modern world – the Industrial Revolution.

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March 2020 Email news@wellsvoice.co.uk

This is like a cancer on the countryside AFTER reading the depressing news of new housing developments on pages 17 and 39 of February’s Wells Voice, we received a card in the post from Gladman informing us of yet another proposed housing development in Wookey Hole Road, in addition to the one we found out about last month next to the Underwood Industrial Estate. This is like a cancer on the countryside in and around Wells. It is a desecration, an assault and a threat to the status of Wells (a very special city!) and the residents of Wookey Hole Road, Wookey Hole, Haybridge, Wookey and Wells. The destruction of green land, hedges, trees, wild flowers, insect life, etc: all destroyed for hundreds of houses that are not needed here. Recent research found that there are enough brownfield sites in Somerset to satisfy government requirements, so why take green land? Consider the lack of local infrastructure and facilities. Every 100 houses means 200+ cars which will rat-run up Haybridge, into Wookey Hole Road and Ash Lane on to the Old Bristol Road to reach their work destination. Consider also that new housing developments are against national and local climate change / carbon footprint policy with their destruction and construction with diesel machinery and movement of construction materials from – who knows where?

Do we have a voice? Yes. But do we have the democratic power to challenge the councils and construction companies (who have unlimited funds to employ lawyers)? Use your voice – and your power. Steve Barton (Brownfield site resident)

Road so bad it nearly shook off bonnet TOR Street being closed for resurfacing due to a “steady decline in the condition of the surface” is a necessary evil, but potholes in Tor Street are no new thing. In November 1910 a letter appeared in the local paper on just this subject: Dear Sir, Will you allow an old lady to call attention to the state of the road in Tor Street. For many months past I have suffered acutely in my old bones from the rutty and wholly bad condition of the road. I am told that my groans can be distinctly heard in the Market Place as I traverse this road om my way to and from your beautiful city. On one occasion I was so terribly shaken about that my bonnet nearly came off. Trusting that the city surveyor will pay attention to a poor lady’s complaint. I am yours respectfully, Sarah It may be 100 years later but Sarah, your request has been fulfilled. Clare Blackmore By email

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Focus on health with Bluebird Care

Personal space needs respecting By Jenny Atkins

Ross Young from Wells Independents accepts the cheque from Cathy Morris-Adams of Lodestone watched by her colleagues Laura Waters, Liz Fox and Alex Relf

Match-funding move SO far Wells SOUP has helped 63 good causes. Now another four will be added with the support of Lodestone Property which has match-funded April 4’s SOUP to the tune of £350. “We are very happy to support any initiative that helps charities and brings people together,” said Cathy Morris-Adams, who co-founded the new local estate agents in September 2016. “Lodestone wants to be involved in the local community.” SOUP is organised by Wells

Independents whose Ross Young thanked Lodestone and said: “We are proud that more than 60 worthy causes have now spread their word and received much needed funding through our grant-giving lunch.” Lodestone sells and lets property from their offices in Melbourne House, Chamberlain Street, Wells, and Station Road, Bruton. April 4’s SOUP will take place in the Connect Centre, at the junction of Chamberlain Street and Portway, from 1pm-2pm.

Business people exchange ideas BUSINESS people and local councillors discussed ideas and concerns at the Better Business for Wells meeting in the Town Hall on February 3. Parking and signage in Wells, networking opportunities and recruitment were among the issues raised. Guest speaker Karl Tucker, chairman of the Heart of the South West Local Enterprise Partnership, talked about the role of the LEP and opportunities for the future. He said that these

include data and AI, and that healthcare and tourism could be big growth areas in the region. Challenges include sorting out the road network and attracting the younger generation to come here or to return after higher education. The event was organised by Wells Chamber of Commerce & Tourism. The next chamber meeting will be at the Old Mill offices at Bishopbrook House, Cathedral Avenue, on Tuesday, March 3, at 6pm.

WE all need our own space. Most of us growing up either had our own rooms or wished we did. That need does not go away as we age. Unfortunately, for residents or customers receiving personal services, maintaining their own space and privacy is difficult, and that is something Bluebird Care can help with. Personal space is an approximate area surrounding an individual that other people should not physically violate for the individual to feel comfortable and secure. It is the zone around people that they regard as psychologically theirs. The amount of personal space required differs from person to person. There are also lifestyle factors or past events in different people’s lives that may affect their personal space. Our personal space protects us from potential aggression and, ultimately, it helps protect us from stress. For those of us more able, we will remove ourselves from an uncomfortable feeling, but those unable to remove themselves will need support. We, of course, also feel safer with those closest to us rather than a stranger.

For most people personal space ends about 18 inches from our bodies. Having others invade our personal space can cause anxiety and anger. Elderly people or those in need of support want to feel at peace while being supported with their needs as well as respected. Anger and anxiety can be bad for their health. Of course, when caring for residents or customers, you will often have to be closer than 18 inches for bathing, helping with clothing changes, feeding, toileting, and transporting. It is important to explain what you are going to do for residents and customers before you perform a procedure or give support. This will help reduce stress and anxiety. Knowing why their space is being invaded will make them feel that they are being taken care of rather than violated. We need to recognise when others may be feeling uncomfortable and understand their personal space will be different to yours. Also, through different experiences our personal space will change – something else of which we need to be aware. n Jenny Atkins is Care Manager of Bluebird Care (Mendip), email CMMendip@bluebirdcare. co.uk, phone 01749 372197 or 01458 570015.

Talk and meditation at museum THE spiritual leader of the World Community for Christian Meditation is to speak in Wells. Fr Laurence Freeman will give a talk at Wells & Mendip Museum on Friday, March 13, at 7.30pm. The talk will include an introduction to Christian meditation, and be followed by a period of meditation. A writer and international teacher, Fr Laurence is the

author of many articles and books and conducts dialogues and peace initiatives, including collaborations with the Dalai Lama. The event is free with a suggested donation of £10. Booking is required. Go to www.buytickets.at/ somersetmeditators/318482 or contact John Roberts on 07970 039007.

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Choir back in Wells to attract recruits THE Glastonbury Male Voice Choir is holding a recruitment evening in Wells, hoping to boost its ranks ahead of two high profile concerts next year. The choir with director Tracey Hansford will be rehearsing in The Crown at Wells on Tuesday, March 24, from 7pm. It is inviting men of all ages and singing abilities to join members and learn more about the choir’s activities and concerts. It normally meets weekly in Glastonbury Town Hall but takes its rehearsals on the road several times a year, to spread the word about the benefits of singing. After the hour-long rehearsal, a light buffet will be offered. The choir, which is a registered charity, puts on around 15 concerts annually throughout the South West. Its most recent performance in

Wells last October helped Wells Lions Club raise £2,000 for local charities. It also sang to support the Centenary Armistice celebrations at The Bishop’s Palace and staged a concert on Wells Bandstand last summer, hopefully to be repeated, alongside Wells City Band on July 4. In 2021 the choir has been booked by Michael Eavis to perform at the Glastonbury Extravaganza. Later in the year it will join three other West Country choirs for a charity Massed Male Voices concert in Wells Cathedral. More details about the choir’s Taster Evening at The Crown on March 24 can be found on the choir’s website: www. glastonburymalevoicechoir. com or by calling John on 01458 211277 or Ian on 01458 201926.

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Lunches each Lots on offer at Monday in Lent spring market EACH Monday in Lent, the Wells Christian Aid Group is serving lunches at the Seager Hall in Wells. There will be a choice of home-made soups, bread and a hot drink, all for a suggested donation of £3.50. The first lunch is on Monday, March 2, from noon-1.30pm, and other lunches will be held on every subsequent Monday in March. There will be good company and a warm atmosphere; and all the proceeds will help families facing poverty and injustice around the world. This year, Christian Aid’s Lent appeal focuses on helping communities in Kenya fight the consequences of the climate crisis.

THERE will be a celebration of the coming of spring and Easter in Croscombe on Saturday, March 14. Handmade cakes and bakes, local honey and cider, greetings cards, tombola, crafts, gifts and vintage homewares will be on offer when Croscombe Spring Market takes place in Croscombe Village Hall from 10am-2pm. There will also be an Easter egg hunt, and an Easter bonnet competition; entries can be taken along ready-made or created on the day at the craft table. There are three classes: under 12, over 12 and adult. Entry is 10p and prizes will be awarded. For enquiries, call Mary Cadogan on 01749 572875 or email marylucia.cadogan@gmail. com

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THE countdown has begun to Somerset Day 2020, which takes place on May 11, with a number of celebratory events and activities already planned over the special VE Day Bank Holiday weekend of May 8-10. Plans are being put in place to encourage all 569 parish churches in the Bath and Wells Diocese to celebrate over the weekend by holding open days and ringing the church bells. Among other events, the Royal Bath & West Showground

will host a 1940s style Tea Dance with Berties Big Band on May 9, and the weekend will round-off with a special Somerset Day Choral Evensong service in Wells Cathedral on May 10. Schools across the county are being encouraged to join in a Somerset-themed nonuniform day, raising money for the Somerset Crisis Fund, on Somerset Day itself, May 11. More details of events or how to register one can be found at www.somersetday.com

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n NEWS

Wellbeing to fore at WOW event

Fashion event for playgroup

INTERNATIONAL Women’s Day will be celebrated in Wells this year on Sunday, March 8, in the Town Hall. For the sixth year, Women of Wells (WOW) are organising a community event to celebrate and support women. The theme this year is mental health and wellbeing and the therapeutic benefits of positive activities. The Mendip Hospital was a significant part of the life and history of Wells for 143 years until 1991, and many current residents remember those who worked and lived there – or worked there themselves. The event will look at therapies then and now, with art and craft exhibitions and workshops, taster sessions in the 3Rs (Revitalise, Replenish, Restore), yoga and meditation, and talks on health and wellbeing. There will be a Talking Bench and the now famous Chaps’ Caff – with plentiful tea and cake. So many crafts are practised in Wells and there is a thriving community of artists, all of whom support the value of ‘doing things’ to combat the stresses

STEPPING Stones Playgroup is organising a fundraising evening of fashion on Saturday, March 21. This is a ladies night out with a difference; as well as a professional catwalk show, there will be plenty of time to try on and buy this season’s high street and branded fashions at a fraction of their retail value. Tickets cost £6 in advance (£7 on the door) and include a drink. As there is a bar, young people under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult. The event will take place in Stoberry Park School Hall. Doors open at 7pm and the show starts at 7.30pm. For more information and to buy tickets, contact Emma Wheat on 01749 595735 or ewheattuition@gmail.com. All proceeds will go directly to the playgroup, which is a registered charity.

A picture from Memories of Mendip Hospital, Josie Bosley, republished on the Internet Archive (www.archive.org) under a Creative Commons Attribution-NoDerivs 3.0 Unported Licence Copyright © Josie Bosley 2000 Internet Edition © Jane Weightman 2012

of modern life and to help general wellbeing. They will offer opportunities for visitors to try their hand at many of these with expert guidance – everything from spinning to mosaic and willow to crochet. Music can also be great therapy; there will be choirs to listen to and to join in with, and dancing for those who dare. The event is free and open to all from noon-4pm and is very

String ensemble lunchtime recital THE Wells Cathedral School Junior String Ensemble will be giving a lunchtime recital at The Bishop’s Palace on Wednesday, March 25. The ensemble is a group of young string players between the ages 10 and 14. Entry to the group is based on merit and the young students are proud of their excellent reputation and high standard of performance. They rehearse once a week and give regular concerts conducted by their director, Catherine Lord, making use of a wide and varied repertoire. The concert will be held in the conference room upstairs in the main Palace, starting at 1pm. Admission is free for concertgoers, with a retiring collection in aid of the school and the Palace. The programme will include Ireland’s Downland Suite, Piazzola’s ‘Libertango’ and Vivaldi’s Concerto for 3 Violins –

family friendly. Anyone who has memories, photographs or artefacts from the past that they would like to share on the day should email chris.f.winter@ btinternet.com.

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March 2020

n AROUND THE SOCIETIES WELLS CIVIC SOCIETY ACCORDING to the Spanish writer Jose Bergamin, happiness is always a coincidence. It was a coincidence that immediately before Alastair Tighe, head master of Wells Cathedral School, was about to talk to the February meeting of the Wells Civic Society, Adrian I’Anson, one of the society members who keeps the group posted about potential developments and planning matters in the city, had briefly outlined the current situation with regard to the possibility of a mobile phone mast being erected on a corner of a school playing field adjacent to Tor Wood. Alastair immediately said that he was happy to clarify the school’s position in this regard, and the society was especially happy to have Alastair as its guest, coincidentally, on this particular evening. Alastair explained that the school had not invited any mobile phone company to erect a mast on its land, but had been approached, and that if planning permission is granted, the school would, legally and technically, be unable to do anything about it. He added that should this happen, the school would not receive a penny piece as a result. He encouraged people in the community to make their views known to Mendip District Council, and he recognised that there were those who favoured and those who opposed the siting of a mast in the proposed location. Prior to dealing with this matter, Alastair had explained how privileged he felt to have become the head, about 18 months ago, of a school which offered a rich all-round education as well as its worldclass music. His values centred on the school having a family atmosphere, and although the academic achievements of the pupils were exceptionally strong, he rated equally highly apprenticeships or, for instance, pupils choosing to continue their studies abroad rather than immediately transferring to university here. In fact, he believes that music, drama, sports, in fact all extra-curricular activities well pursued, are as important as exam results, both for the individual pupils, and for what they bring to the school community.

Adrian I’Anson fromWells Civic Society, left, with the guest speaker at the society’s February meeting, Alastair Tighe The next talk is to be given by Russell Lillford, chairman of Somerset Buildings Preservation Trust. This will be on Wednesday, March 11, in the museum on Cathedral Green, starting at 7.30pm, with refreshments available from 7.15pm. For more information about this meeting or the society in general, please see www. wellscivicsociety.org.uk or contact the chair, Chris Winter, at chair@wellscivicsociety.org.uk or on 01749 673610. Richard Hanks WELLS WI NEWS from our groups this month: so many members are keen on reading and discussing books it has been necessary to set up a second book group; our skittlers were knocked out of the competition in the fourth round; the gourmet group are planning what to cook and share at a spring gathering; and our crafters will be trying applique. Our New Year’s dinner was a great success, 38 members enjoyed a delicious and great value three-course dinner at Goodfellows in January. People brought along to the meeting Christmas gifts they didn’t really want and swapped them for things they would prefer. Our speaker this month was Norm Longley, an author who told us about his 20 years of travel writing. Whilst teaching English in Serbia, a piece he wrote about living with the bombing during the Kosovan war for the Rough Guides newsletter led to a commission to co-author Rough Guides to Romania, Hungary and the Budapest city guide. Norm was

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then given responsibility for writing the Rough Guide to Slovenia, which took two years to research and write and left him with an infectious love of the country, its people and its capital Ljubljana. That book is now in its 4th edition and we learned that travel guides require frequent updates. Norm moved to Somerset in 2011 and wrote guides to Wales, Scotland and the Highlands and Islands, taking his young family along in a camper van. His most recent book, the Slow Guide to Somerset, was published in 2019. Slow travel is an offshoot of the slow food movement. The emphasis is on connections – to food, families, local people and culture – and taking in your surroundings at a relaxed pace rather than manic sightseeing. There was then a quiz based on facts in the Slow Guide to Somerset and Norm donated a signed copy as a future raffle prize. Members voted for this year’s shortlisted resolutions. The two potential national campaigns that got most support from Wells WI were: helping victims of modern slavery and increasing stem cell donor registration. Wells WI will be 10 years old in the autumn, so ideas were invited for ways to mark this milestone anniversary. Our next meeting will be on Tuesday, March 3, at Wells Museum, from 7.15pm for a 7.30pm start. The artist Molly Briton will give us an insight into the world of creativity and drawing. 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 MEN’S BREAKFAST WMB will be meeting on Saturday, March 7, at The Connect Centre, Chamberlain Street, Wells. Our speaker will be Mike Walton who will be speaking on The History of Ironing. Yes, ironing! Mike has a large collection of irons and he will give us an informative and amusing talk – not to be missed. We welcome newcomers and, if you would like to join us, please ring 07974 879902 before

Thursday, March 5. Doors open at 7.30am, breakfast is at 8am and we finish by about 9.30am. The cost is £9. WELLS TWINNING ASSOCIATION WELLS Twinning Association held a very successful Quiz with Fish and Chip supper on Friday, February 7, at Godney Village Hall. It was very well attended with approximately 45 Twinning members and friends taking part. The association’s thanks goes to Terry Millard for arranging the venue, Rose Holdsworth and Teresa Stoodley for organising fish and chips, and Tony D’ovidio and Tony and Sandra Guidi for organising the event. The association’s Annual General Meeting will take place this year in the Council Chamber, Wells Town Hall, on Monday, March 23, starting at 7pm. Dawn Payne

Ferns will feature in the next talk at Wells & District Gardening Club WELLS & DISTRICT GARDENING CLUB PROFESSIONAL gardener Andrew Tolman will be giving a talk Entitled Stumperies, Ferns and Shady Friends to Wells & District Gardening Club on Thursday, March 12. Ferns have been around for over 350 million years, give or take a few months. They are among the most ancient of plants, colonising those modest shady places which we in our gardens tend to neglect. They have a special appeal for many of us and Andrew is one of those enthusiasts. He now runs his own horticultural business on Exmoor having been in charge of landscaping gardens and estates in the Cotswolds for many years. So if you like the colour green or wish to hear about how you can enliven a darkened or neglected corner of your garden, large or

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n AROUND THE SOCIETIES small, then do come along to the Town Hall on March 12 where you will be warmly welcomed. There will also be a chance to view the programme not only of talks but of the garden visits for the year. Everyone welcome. Visitors £3. Refreshments. For more details, tel: 01749 679182. Pip Harwood WELLS U3A THE Rt Rev Peter Hancock, Bishop of Bath and Wells, gave a very interesting talk to Wells U3A’s January meeting. Surprisingly, he didn’t read theology at Cambridge, but Natural Sciences (Selwyn College). Then he went to Oak Hill Theological College, and in 1980 became a curate in Portsmouth, and subsequently, between 1987 and 1999, was vicar in Cowplain, Portsmouth. Then followed a period as a canon in Portsmouth Cathedral. His first appointment as bishop was between 2010 and 2014, when he was Suffragan Bishop of Basingstoke. In 2014 he was installed as bishop in this diocese. He is a member of the Society of Ordained Scientists. He told us about his role as bishop and gave us an insight into his family life. He said his primary responsibilities are to love and pray and be known by the people of the diocese. He was once invited to speak at Glastonbury Festival; his daughter warned him that 50,000 people would leave. She later celebrated her wedding in Glastonbury style, which Bishop Peter remembers going on for four days. He spoke about the importance of education, teachers sowed the seeds of faith. His time as a school governor was the most rewarding experience after being a vicar. But he stressed that education is for life, and not for exams, and linked this into the rapidly growing problem of climate change. So prayer, welcome and hospitality are at the core of his faith. There are 562 churches in the diocese and 181 church schools. Each priest is responsible for 3.2 churches. Attendance at these churches amounts to 2.2 per cent of the population of the diocese, or equates to an average of 39 people attending each church.

During the Q & A session he was asked about his UK responsibility for “safeguarding” in the Anglican Church, a “huge subject, involving heartbreaking stories”. Bishop Peter’s love and commitment to his faith was made so obvious by this talk. Men of his conviction are rare in world society, and it was a privilege for our audience to hear him. John King WELLS FLORAL ART CLUB WELLS Floral Art Club presents a demonstration by Mary Keily, Guess What I Found in my Garage? Mary is an experienced area demonstrator and vice president of the South West area of the National Association of Flower Arrangement Societies. The demonstration will be held St Thomas’ Church Hall, Wells, on Tuesday, March 10, at 2.15pm. Are you looking for a new hobby, or do you want to be able arrange flowers in your church? Then why not join our practice class on Tuesday, March 24? Same time, same place. Visitors and new members are always welcome. WELLS ARTHRITIS GROUP THE group set off from Wells at 9am on January 13 to enjoy a much welcomed break at the Suncliffe Hotel in Bournemouth, despite the weather forecast being quite stormy and windy for most of the week. On the outward journey we stopped for coffee at the Wilton Shopping Village followed by a lunch break in Salisbury. From here we went on down to Bournemouth. The hotel itself was very comfortable and the food was good. Evening entertainment was provided following an enjoyable evening meal. In addition there were pool and sauna facilities which were enjoyed by many. On Tuesday we went by coach to Southampton, journeying through the New Forest with its many ponies and donkeys braving the weather. On arrival the heavens opened and the wind was gale force but fortunately we left the coach at an enclosed shopping mall. Time was spent

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here browsing the stores and enjoying lunch. The next day the sun was shining and we spent the morning at the historic market town of Dorchester followed by a few hours at the seaside town of Weymouth. On Thursday morning we were taken on a scenic coach journey and then those who wished were dropped off in the town of Bournemouth to be collected by the coach in late afternoon. Sadly Friday came around all too quickly but there remained the final day of our holiday to enjoy after departing from the hotel. Our first stop was The Haskins Garden Centre just outside Bournemouth at Ferndown. From there we travelled on to Poole, an interesting large town on the coast which boasts a shopping mall and plenty of restaurants. From Poole we journeyed home to Wells, arriving at about 4.30pm to once again stormy weather. Despite this the five-day break was very welcome and enjoyed by all. Our thanks to Nancy for arranging the holiday

and again to our coach driver Graham for his coaching skills. Pat Thomas HENTON AND DISTRICT GARDENING CLUB HENTON and District Gardening Club members are keen listeners to Radio 4’s Gardeners’ Question Time programme and are looking forward to putting a face to a name as they welcome Matthew Biggs, a member of the GQT panel, who will be visiting the club on Wednesday, March 18, in Henton Village Hall, 7pm for 7.30pm. Matthew is widely travelled, leads horticultural themed tours, has written several books and regularly features in gardening magazines and no doubt will draw on his experiences in his talk The Wonder of Plants. This is a limited ticket event (£12 to include coffee) – details from 01749 679638. A full programme of our talks, visits and outings can be found on www.hentongardenclub. weebly.com

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or email

info@elm-online.co.uk www.elm-online.co.uk We have a Bristol-based team of trained Will writing consultants who provide a home visiting service and can take your instructions in the comfort of your own home.

Mirror Wills Single Or Couples FROM £99.00

Making Secure Plans for Uncertain Futures

Email: news@wellsvoice.co.uk

NEW RETIREMENT APARTMENTS FOR SALE IN WELLS

Join us for a talk with Michael Eavis founder of the Glastonbury Festival We would be delighted if you could join us for morning coffee followed by a talk from Michael Eavis founder of The Glastonbury Festival at St Athelm Lodge. Visit on Tuesday 10th March at 11.30am to discover how good retirement living can be.

Make the first move towards Churchill Retirement Living today – you’ll be surprised how easy it can be.

ST ATHELM LODGE West Street - Open Tues to Sat, 10am to 5pm.

RSVP TODAY TO CONFIRM YOUR ATTENDANCE

01749 987592 Visit churchillretirement.coo.uk

• Lodge Manager • Owners’ lounge with coffee bar • Guest Suite for friends and family • Landscaped gardens • 24-hour support • Video entry system • Free parking • Lift to all floors

wellsvoice

March 2020

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n NEWS

Landlords Q&A

with Stuarts Residential

answered by Stuart Nash

Event will provide guidance on changes in legislation

The presentation of the cheques. From left: Guy Belshaw (Trustee of the Fairground Heritage Trust), David Walker (Honorary Curator, Wells & Mendip Museum), Dr Julia Wood (Wells City Archivist) and Richard Green

Funds for museum and city archives CHEQUES for more than £1,000 have been presented to Wells City Archives and Wells & Mendip Museum. The first cheque, for £1,000, was from Richard Green and Guy Belshaw from the proceeds of their book about Charles Heal and sons, the highly regarded showmen, businessmen and philanthropists. Richard and Guy carried out research for their book in Wells City Archives, and were excited to find rare correspondence there, on headed notepaper, featuring colourful fairground images. The book also features illustrations of documents in

Let Wells Voice help you

the archives, and this donation will be shared equally between Wells City Archives and Wells Museum. The book is entitled Big Shows: Charles Heal and Sons, and is available from the museum shop. The second cheque, for £100, was donated to the museum by Richard on behalf of the Showmen’s Guild of Great Britain. Dr Julia Wood, Wells City Archivist, said: “Both the City Archives and Wells Museum are enormously appreciative of this generosity and support from Richard, Guy and the Showmen’s Guild.”

restrictions, caps the amount of deposit a landlord can now ask for. The dawn of a new decade is likely to see further changes including Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards and changes to Capital Gains Taxation in April. The Renters Reform Bill announced in the Queens Speech will include the abolition of the Section 21 notice. A significant change to the current legislation. It is simple to see therefore how landlords can easily “get it wrong”. To help local landlords navigate their way through these changes, we will be running a Question and Answers seminar on Wednesday, March 25, 2020, at The White Hart in Sadler Street, Wells. I will be on hand along with my team, a local Accountant, Solicitor and Mortgage Advisor to answer questions and provide advice.

‘It is simple to see how landlords can easily “get it wrong” ‘ The Private Rented Sector is a hot political potato right now and Parliament is keen to provide a fairer housing system for both tenants and landlords. This inevitably means an increase in legislation and regulation and many landlords simply cannot keep up to date. Last year we saw the introduction of new legislation which included the Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act and notably the Tenant Fees Act which, amongst other

The event is free although places are limited so to reserve your space please call us on 01749 672678 or by sending an email to qanda@stuartsresidential. com. We look forward to seeing you!

TO LET

WELLS BEDSIT

To advertise properties for sale or to let, email sales@wellsvoice.co.uk or call 01749 675157

THOSE of you who have been following our articles over the last few months will know that each month we do our best to provide a concise answer (within the confines of our allotted word count!) to a question that has been sent to us by a local landlord. To say we’ve been surprised by the positive feedback to these articles and the volume of questions received, would be an understatement! Importantly it also demonstrates how many landlords out there want to get it right.

Furnished room. £85 per week. Bills included. Wifi, central heating. Would suit working person. 01749 939068 or 07761 141167

Got News? Call 07906 499655

stuartresidential.com

Landlords Q&A Seminar

Wednesday 25th March 2020 6:00pm to 7.30pm The Private Rented Sector is changing! Are you managing to keep up? Come along to our Q&A seminar to learn more about changes to legislation, proposed regulation and much more. To reserve your free space please contact us on 01749 672 678

Email: news@wellsvoice.co.uk

wellsvoice

38

March 2020

n NEWS

Chance to chat with property specialists LODESTONE Property like to be innovative, and their latest initiative is to take their property sales and lettings experience straight to the community. What better way, they believe, to meet their customers, discuss their needs and get to know Somerset communities even more? The team has already held two Property Pop-Ups in Wedmore and Bruton, and a third is coming to Wells on Tuesday, March 3. Managing partner Cathy Morris-Adams said: “We have been overwhelmed by the response to these events. Being able to have an informal chat with potential vendors and purchasers over a cup of coffee seems to be just what they want.

We have built our business through networking and connecting with local communities and this is just a natural extension for us.” So pleased with the initial reaction, Lodestone are inviting a select group of respected property professionals to join them at Ensemble in Sadler Street, Wells – from planners and architects to carpenters and interior designers. Free coffee will be served all morning and experts will be on hand to advise, wherever people are on their property journey. The March 3 event will run from 10am-12.30pm. For more information, call Lodestone Property on 01749 605088 or email wells@ lodestoneproperty.co.uk

Drew Pritchard, left, and Tee at the Salvage Hunters warehouse

Search for sites to appear on TV prop stores, historic theatres, museums, private collectors, country houses, old cinemas, antique hubs – buying all sorts along the way, from props and furniture to old light fittings and 6ft, 1980s disco balls. People who want to promote their house or business, make some money and celebrate the history and heritage of the UK are invited to get in touch. Call 020 3179 0092 or email salvagehunters@curvemedia.com

THE hunt is on for locations in and around Wells to feature on the upcoming series of Salvage Hunters. The programme, now in its 15th series, is the most watched Discovery Network show, and follows decorative antiques expert Drew Pritchard as he travels around the UK and abroad on his quest to find and buy unusual objects with an interesting history. He visits places such as

Drop into �r Property Pop-Up

at Ensemble, Sadler Street, Wells Tuesday 3 March, 10.00am – 12.30pm Lodestone Property in Wells have teamed up with local professionals and craftspeople to offer a unique Property Pop-Up. Join us for a cup of coffee at Ensemble, where Lodestone will offer advice on buying, selling or renting a property in the area. We are joined by over 10 property professionals, offering free advice in skilled areas such as financial advice, surveying, planning & conveyancing, architecture & landscape gardening, interiors, furniture & kitchen design. Wherever you are on your property journey, we are happy to advise. Come and see why we are different – coffee is on us! www.lodestoneproperty.co.uk wells@lodestoneproperty.co.uk | bruton@lodestoneproperty.co.uk

To advertise, contact Andy on 01749 675157

01749 605099 (Bruton) | 01749 605088 (Wells) 01747 445042 (Shaftesbury)

Email: sales@wellsvoice.co.uk

wellsvoice

March 2020

39

n NEWS

Invitation to attend talk by Michael Eavis PEOPLE are being invited to a talk by Glastonbury Festival founder Michael Eavis at a retirement development in Wells. Churchill Retirement Living is inviting locals to join Owners and friends for the talk at St Athelm Lodge in West Street on Tuesday, March 10. Refreshments will be served from 11.30am in the Lodge’s Owners’ Lounge, with the talk taking place at noon. Jo Ridehalgh, Churchill’s regional marketing executive, said: “We’re delighted that Michael Eavis will be visiting St Athelm Lodge, and we’re really looking forward to welcoming people to hear him talk about the remarkable history of the Glastonbury Festival, an event which has brought people to the area from all over the world

for the last 50 years. It’s also the perfect opportunity for everyone to come and meet our apartment Owners and see all that St Athelm Lodge has to offer. Interesting and sociable events like this are what the retirement living lifestyle is all about, and with only a few of our low maintenance apartments remaining we’re encouraging interested purchasers to act now to avoid missing out.” St Athelm Lodge is a retirement development of 31 one- and two-bedroom apartments specially designed for the over 60s. To attend the Michael Eavis talk or find out more about the apartments on offer, visit the show complex (open Tuesday to Saturday from 10am to 5pm), call 01749 987576 or go to www. churchillretirement.co.uk.

Jade Olds in front of the thatched home

New home given thatched roof A HOUSEBUILDER has completed a new-build property with a thatched roof at a development in Wells. Somerset-based Nigel Bunce spent four weeks thatching the four-bedroom Chestnut property at Bovis Homes’ Priory Fields location, on Wookey Hole Road. The thatched roof in Wells is the first to be done by Bovis Homes in the UK in its innovative new scheme, and there will be one more to follow

at Priory Fields, along with two more at a site in Stalbridge. Jade Olds, sales advisor at Priory Fields, said: “The thatched roof really adds to Priory Fields’ character and it looks a lovely, stand-out property. We’ve had some great feedback from home buyers and current residents.” Nigel added that the thatched roof would provide excellent insulation and was a good sustainable option for new-build homes.

killens.org.uk | 01749 671172

The Property Professionals ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦

Residential Property Sales Residential Lettings Valuations Estate Management

♦ ♦ ♦ ♦

Country House & Farms Agency Equestrian Property Compulsory Purchase Planning & Development

Wells | Chew Magna | Ston Easton | Knightsbridge | Mendip Auction Rooms

Got News? Call 07906 499655

Email: news@wellsvoice.co.uk

wellsvoice

40

n THE PROPERTY MARKET

March 2020

With Roderick Thomas of Roderick Thomas Ltd

On track for a 5% price rise by Easter

I THINK I’ve said this before about my colleagues. Chartered Surveyors can be a stuffy old bunch who tend to be pessimists. I’m a Chartered Surveyor and my half-glass is always nearly full. With this background I’m really encouraged to quote the latest analysis by RICS (our corporate body) showing an activity rise. It says that typical UK-wide house prices have risen for the first time in six months, driven by a turnaround in London and the South East. The Halifax Building Society has gone further and states house price growth increased to 4.1% in January. Since December I’ve been forecasting a 5% growth by Easter and we’re on track! Don’t misunderstand me. Prices in many fields have been pretty stagnant for the last few years for reasons we all understand. I don’t want a roaring boom in the market but I believe steady growth is healthy and promotes the economy. We’re now getting it. We’re also getting an “area of steady growth” in the demand for houses near the centre of Wells. One such property we’ve just placed on the market at £625,000 is Burwood House in the heart of the city, a stone’s throw from the High Street. It’s a townhouse with plenty of character and includes a hall, sitting room, study, kitchen and dining room, cloakroom, utility store, three bedrooms and three bath/shower rooms. Outside, the property has a parking space for one car, a small courtyard plus shared use of a larger communal courtyard. In addition, an adjoining one-bedroom flat of a similar standard is available.

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

Burwood House is a townhouse with plenty of character just a stone’s throw from Wells High Street

To advertise, contact Andy on 01749 675157

Email: sales@wellsvoice.co.uk

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March 2020

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n WHAT’S ON March 2 n Wells Fountain Poets meet at The Globe Inn, 18-20 Priest Row, 7.45pm. Guest poet Jinny Fisher, plus open mic (no need to book). Ffi: Ama Bolton 01749 672911 or see wellsfountainpoets.wordpress. com/about/ n Bereavement Cafe, St Thomas’ Church, Wells, 2pm-3.30pm. A chance for anyone who has suffered loss to talk over a cup of tea. n Wells U3A Singing for Pleasure group will meet at the Seager Hall, Union Street, at 2.30pm. All U3A members welcome. March 4 n Wells Health Walk starting at Morrisons, East Somerset Way, 10am for a 10.15am start. A walk in and around Wells using paths, tracks, possibly fields and stiles if suitable. Can be muddy/slippery if wet. Lasting 1-1.5 hours. Free. n St Thomas’ Women’s Fellowship meeting, St Thomas’ Church Hall, 7pm. Tai chi followed by the AGM. Visitors £2. March 6 n World Day of Prayer celebration, St Thomas’ Church, Wells, 10.30am. More information from Jane Tibbs, 01749 677428, jane@thetibbs.co.uk March 7 n Until March 21, Figures and Faces IV exhibition, Andelli Art, Mendip House, Upper Breach, South Horrington, Wednesday– Sunday, 10am–5pm. Figurative group exhibition showcasing contemporary and 20th century artists’ enduring fascination with portraying the human form. March 8 n Macmillan quiz at the Britannia Inn, Wells. 7.30pm start. Teams of up to four, £3 per team member. To book, phone Terry on 01749 672342. Raffle prizes very welcome. March 11 n Wells Board Game Group, Cheese Yard Cafe, West Horrington, 7pm-9.30pm. March 13 n Wookey Hole Cinema at n DO YOU WANT YOUR EVENT TO STAND OUT? We try to print as many listings as possible for free, but if you want to ensure your event is included and gets attention, we will print it with a colour background like this for just £5 + VAT. Find out more by emailing sales@wellsvoice.co.uk

BOOK SALE & CAFE On Saturday March 14 10am-4pm at Wells Town Hall

Tuck up with a good book! Come and browse the huge range of books on sale and enjoy a cup of tea and some home-made cake Organised by Wells Labour Party the Community Hall: Official Secrets (15). Doors open 7pm, film show starts 7.30pm. More at wookeyholecinemaclub.weebly. com n Ceilidh, Dinder Village Hall, 7.30pm-10.30pm. Starring the Rambling Pitchforks and including a cold buffet. £12. Book via Bob, 01749 689112, or Margaret, 01749 674943. No experience needed, all welcome. March 14 n Wells City Band Music From the Movies concert, Wells Town Hall, 7.30pm, in aid of Wells United Church. Tickets £5 at the door. March 16 n Wells U3A Singing for Pleasure group will meet at the Seager Hall, Union Street, at 2.30pm. All U3A members welcome. March 18 n Wells Health Walk starting at Morrisons, East Somerset Way, 10am for a 10.15am start. A walk in and around Wells using paths, tracks, possibly fields and stiles if suitable. Can be muddy/slippery if wet. Lasting 1-1.5 hours. Free. n Action on Hearing Loss free fiveminute hearing assessment, Wells Library, 9.30am-noon. No booking required. March 19 n Art history talk by Joanna Cobb: Antipodean Encounters: landscape, art, peoples, identity. Seager Hall, Wells, 2pm-4pm. £10 for one person / £18 for two people. All welcome, no previous experience needed. Ffi: 01458 832178 or ericjoanna@waitrose.com March 21 n Sixties and Seventies Music Night, The Swan Hotel, Sadler Street, 8pm-11pm. Admission £6. All proceeds in aid of the Mendip Society. Tickets available from Gill (Cheddar) 07788 676261, and Paul (Wells) 07792 766994.

Got News? Call 07906 499655

March 25 n Wells Board Game Group, Cheese Yard Cafe, West Horrington, 7pm-9.30pm. March 28 n Antiques, Crafts & Collectors Market, Wells Town Hall, 10am4pm. Admission free. 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 Small group physio-led Pilates ideal for pre and post-surgery and recovery from injury, Pilates Body Aligned Studio, BA5 3DG, 10.30am. £105 block of four sessions and initial assessment. £20 PAYG. Email info@pilatesbodyaligned.uk. n Wells Zen Group (Dogen Sangha). Zazen, The Drawing Room, Unit 4, 10 Heritage Courtyard, Sadler Street, Wells, 7.45pm (please arrive 7.30pm).

For more details tel: Paul 01749 670193. Every Tuesday n Soda Art Group, 1.30pm-3.30pm, in term time, Learning and Skills Centre, Portway. This term starts January 7. Special welcome for people with a disability. Tutorials, chances to exhibit, and expeditions out for workshops. More from 01749 673755 or 673334. TAI CHI Connect Centre, Wells Mondays 7pm - 8.30pm £5 per class Bob 07791 291886 n Wells Good Afternoon Choir, Seager Hall, Wells, 2pm-4pm. ‘Singing in the Afternoon’ with Grenville Jones. Everyone welcome. gac@grenvillemusic.co.uk n Pilates mat class 9.15am, Wells Town Hall. Pre-booking essential: zest2zen@gmail.com, 07946 310877. Continued on page 42

Email: news@wellsvoice.co.uk

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March 2020

n WHAT’S ON From page 41 n Coffee Stop, St Thomas Church, Wells, 9am-noon. All welcome. n Smashup badminton for all abilities with music and your mates. Ages 11-18. Wells Blue Sports Centre, 7pm-8pm, £2.50 per session. n Zumba Gold. Lower impact, easier steps, Wells Leisure Centre. 10.45am-11.10am, £5 a session. Tel Jacqui 07870 544551 or just turn up (no membership required). n Zumba. Latin-based cardio dance exercise, Wells Cathedral School dance studio, 6.45pm7.45pm. Tel Jacqui 07870 544551 or just turn up (no membership required). 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 Ceilidh and Scottish Dancing, Dinder Village Hall, 7.30-9.30pm. 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 Movement on the Roller with Corali: Pilates Body Aligned Studio, South Horrington, Upper Breach, BA5 3DG, 11am. £10. To book, email info@deeperbalance.co.uk 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

Come and join us at any or all of these... look out for the Sust Wells stall and banner! Mar 8th: International Women’s Day Celebration, Wells Town Hall, 12pm-4pm. Mar 9th: Our Monthly Gathering at Wells Little Theatre, 7pm-9pm. Mendip council Resilience Officer Hayley Warrens plus all the usual updates and info. Mar 13th: Wells Climate Strike Wells Town Hall, from 11am. Mar 19th: Mendip council dropin on the climate emergency, Wells Town Hall, 6pm-9pm. www.sustainablewells.org.uk

YOGA FOR ALL Wells Town Hall

l Thursday 17.50 to 18.50: mixed ability class l Thursday 19.00 to 20.15: intermediate class l Friday 11 to noon: beginner class l Friday noon to 1pm: mixed ability class Friendly classes, all welcome

More at www.YogaInWells.uk

Hall, Union Street, 6.30pm-9pm. n Wells Chess Club, The Globe Inn, 18-20 Priest Row. Juniors 6-7pm, Everyone 7-9.30pm. Improve your chess skill in a friendly environment. Any level welcome. n Mendip All Drummers community djembe (African hand-drumming) group. Meet at Croscombe Village Hall, Fayreway, from 10am-1pm. Beginners and learners welcome; drums available. £4 per session. Ring Charles on 07881 304609 or just turn up. n Wells Kettlercise, Town Hall, Market Place, 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. Pre-booking essential: zest2zen@gmail.com, 07946 310877. n Wells Folk Dance Club, Dinder Village Hall, 7.30pm-9.30pm. All welcome, no need to bring a partner. Contact: 01749 674920. n Modern Line Dance classes at Coxley Memorial Hall. Beginners 6.15-7pm, Improvers 7-8.45pm, Intermediates 8.45-10pm. Beginner class £4.50, or pay £5 for the whole evening and stay as long as you like. No need to book. FFi: 07863 725555 or 07498 504558. 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: Pilates Body Aligned Studio, South Horrington, Upper Breach, BA5 3DG, 7.30pm. Trial class £3, then £7 a class. All welcome. To book, email Claire Widdall at cmwiddall@gmail.com. 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

To advertise, contact Andy on 01749 675157

play and board games. Members must be 18 or over; juniors (12 or over) can attend with adult member. facebook.com/ groups/1395072510738529/ n Life Drawing, The Drawing Room, 4 Heritage Courtyard, Sadler Street, 1.30pm-3.30pm. Tutored class with life models, £12 inc tea. Tel Molly 07793 387848 or Paul 07918 731137. n Pilates mat class, Wells Town Hall, 9.15am. Pre-booking essential: zest2zen@gmail.com, 07946 310877. n Trigger Point Pilates, Wells Town Hall, Market Place, 10.30am. For more informtion contact Sally at zest2zen@gmail.com or 07946 310877. n Irish Set Dancing, Dinder Village Hall, BA5 3PF, 8pm-10pm, £3. For more details call 01458 210051. n Pilates, Wells Town Hall, 10am11am £5, drop in. Ffi: jo.webb@ mbzonline.net, 07730 397396. 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 Hop, Skip and Sing; Singing games and rhymes for parents and babies/toddlers, Wells Town Hall, 10am. Musical play sessions with instruments, fun and sociable, £6 per session. More info from Eliza 07887 683856. 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. Pre-booking 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 welcome. For more information call 01749 672672 (all day), 01749 677548 (daytime), 01749 672805 (evening) or go to wellsscottishdancers.btck.co.uk n Shared Reading Group, Wells Library, 11am-12.30pm. A place to

relax, make new friends and share stories with others every week. n Beginners level yoga classes, Blue School Sports Centre, 5pm and 7.15pm. £5 per session. Contact Jane on 07951 313917. n KMA Dance, ‘Feet & Beat’ Dance Fitness, Centrespace, Market Street, Wells, 9.30am. See KMADance.com or kaye@kmadance.com, 07799 814204. Every Saturday n Wells Market, Market Place, 9am-4pm. n Pay and Play badminton for all abilities, teenagers and adults, Wells Blue Sports Centre, 9am10am, £3 per session. n Badzone – Wells Junior Badminton Club for all abilities – ages 7-15. Wells Blue Sports Centre, 10am-11am, £3 per session. n KMA Dance, ‘Feet & Beat’ Dance Fitness, Centrespace, Market Street, Wells, 9.30am. See KMADance.com or kaye@kmadance.com, 07799 814204. WELLS TOWN HALL DYNAMIC FLOW YOGA Mon and Wed Evenings 6.00 -7.00pm intermediate 7.05- 8.05pm Mixed Ability Saturday 9.00-10.30am Mixed Ability FFI: Paul 07866 265828 Every Sunday n Wells Zen Group (Dogen Sangha). Zazen, The Drawing Room, Unit 4, 10 Heritage Courtyard, Sadler Street, Wells, 9am (please arrive 8.45am). For more details tel: Paul 01749 670193. First Tuesday of each month n Wells WI, Wells & Mendip Museum. Start 7.30pm. Visitors welcome. n Wells Carers Group, Wells Fire Station Community Room, 10.30am-noon. 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. 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.

Email: sales@wellsvoice.co.uk

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n WHAT’S ON Second Tuesday of each month n Wells Floral Art Society demonstration, St Thomas’ Church Hall, Wells, from 2.15pm. All welcome. Ffi: Janet 01934 712809. n Wells Circle Dance Group, Wells Methodist Church, Southover, 7pm-8.45pm. £4 per session. No experience or partner needed. Each dance taught. From traditional dances from the Balkans and Greece to choreographed dances to modern music. All welcome. Rowena: 01749 679300, revrowenafrancis@gmail.com 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 n Henton WI, Henton Village Hall, 7.30pm. More information from Barbara Sprague (01749 677935). Visitors most welcome. Third Monday of each month n Mendip Postcard Club meets for interesting talks, Wells Town Hall, 7.30pm. Guests welcome. Refreshments provided. More

PILOGAFIT Pilates Yoga Fitness Fusion for Spine & Core Stability 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 details: Francis 01458 831242. Third Wednesday of each month n Wells Memory Cafe, Methodist Church Hall, Southover, 2pm-4pm. Relaxed drop-in for anyone with memory problems and their carer or family. Ffi: Claire 01749 676248 or clairechettoe@gmail.com n Henton and District Gardening Club, Henton Village Hall, 7.30pm.

PRINCES ROAD, WELLS, BA5 1TD

Full programme on our website: www.hentongardenclub.weebly. com 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. Third Saturday of each month n Focus on Photography Camera Club meeting, Wells Methodist Hall, Southover, 9.30am-11.30am. Aimed at all abilities from beginners, everyone with an interest in photography welcome. More details: Gwen, 07712 206578. 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.) Last Tuesday of each month n Wells Floral Art Society practice meeting, St Thomas’ Church Hall, Wells, from 2.15pm. All welcome. Ffi: Janet 01934 712809. 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 news@wellsvoice.co.uk n DO YOU WANT YOUR EVENT TO STAND OUT? We try to print as many listings as possible for free, but if you want to ensure your event is included and gets attention, we will print it with a colour background like this for just £5 + VAT. Find out more by emailing sales@wellsvoice.co.uk

OPEN 7 DAYS DISABLED ACCESS IN ALL 3 SCREENS A WEEK 01749 673195

wellsfilmcentre.co.uk

UPCOMING EVENT CINEMA FIDELIO - THE ROYAL BALLET

TUE 17TH - 7.15PM & MON 23RD MARCH - 2PM

JONAS KAUFMANN MY VIENNA TUESDAY 24TH MARCH - 7.30PM

MARCH FILM RELEASES

SWAN LAKE - THE ROYAL BALLET WED 1ST - 7.15PM & MON 6TH APRIL - 1PM

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MULAN (TBC) - 27TH PETER RABBIT 2 (TBC) - 27TH PREVIEWS SAT 21ST & SUN 22ND ________________________________________________________ 007 NO TIME TO DIE (TBC) - 3RD APRIL

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44

March 2020

n SPORT

Under 16s reach county final RUGBY WELLS Under 16s team have reached the final of the Somerset Under 16 Cup. The final is due to be played against Walcott on April 26 when all three junior finals will take place, presumably at the Recreation Ground in Bath, but this is still to be confirmed. The weather in recent weeks has not been helpful, first Ciara and then Dennis have paid flying visits bringing disruption to the fixtures. Besides the two senior teams, there are over 200 mini and junior players and three girls’ teams all wanting to play. With just two pitches alongside the clubhouse at Charter Way, plus a couple of others without proper facilities a short distance away, it has become a logistical nightmare. On the playing front the First team have only played two matches, a heavy loss at Oldfield, although the team as a whole played well, and a fine bonus point win at home to St

FOOTBALL

Wells 2nds in action against Wiveliscombe 2nds in a game played when Storm Dennis hit on February 15 Picture: Paul Nicholls Bernadette’s Old Boys. In the latter match the Wells squad contained five members of the Colts team. The Second team have managed only one match, amazingly played on the same weekend as Dennis struck and on one of the few fit pitches in the county. The ground at St

Cuthbert’s Mill was deemed fit and an excellent, entertaining game was played in front of a soaked and windswept, but enthusiastic crowd. Wells snatched victory with their second try late in the game, the visitors, Wiveliscombe 2nds, having scored a try and a penalty leaving a final score of 10-8.

Impressive results in league and cups FOOTBALL THE Wells City A team kept up their impressive form this season with another three victories in the past month. First, the Division One side travelled to high-flying Premier Division Peasedown Albion for the Dimmock Green Cup quarter-final. Despite being the underdogs, Wells started brightly and were unlucky not to take an early lead with both Ryan and Tom Pledger coming close. Instead it was Peasedown who went ahead when Daniel Hucker’s shot deflected off Lee Lester into the roof of the goal. Wells responded almost immediately through a brilliant solo effort from Ryan Pledger. He stopped a Peasedown counter-attack just inside the Wells half with a fantastically timed slide tackle, before racing forward and slotting the ball past the onrushing keeper from the edge of the box. Wells had to withstand a lot of pressure in the opening

Belrose stay in hunt for trophy

15 minutes of the second half, and then took the lead through an unlikely source when fullback Lee Lester unleashed a spectacular curling shot that just dipped under the bar. Wells put the game beyond doubt 15 minutes from time when Stefan Wasmuht was brought down outside the box. Ben Warren stepped up to fire home the resulting free kick from 25 yards out. This cup upset sees Wells City A through to the semi-finals where they have been drawn against local rivals Belrose. A week later Wells City A hosted top of the table Weston, and found themselves two goals down at half-time, but after the break they were a completely different team. Stefan Wasmuht began the fightback, stabbing home from a corner, and Dan Catley brought the scores level, smashing home the rebound after Weston’s keeper had initially saved his penalty, awarded for a handball. Wells fell behind again

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ten minutes from time after conceding a penalty themselves, but with a slight change of formation and an extra forward on the pitch, they grabbed a 90th minute equaliser with a Ryan Pledger header. They continued to push for a winner, and took all three points when substitute Ben Hewlett arrived at the back post completely unmarked to score City’s fourth of the afternoon. There was more cup success when City visited Yeovil and District Premier Division Stoke sub Hamdon in the quarter-finals of the Somerset Junior Cup. Stoke took the lead 30 minutes into the match through leading goalscorer Luke Dovey, but Wells equalised on the hour mark when Tyler Cornish battled into the box and shot home. Ten minutes later Stefan Wasmuht scored what proved to be the winner after a surging run and cross from Liam Chant. Wells City A will now travel to K V First of the Westonsuper-Mare and District League Division One for the semi-final.

BELROSE have been involved in entertaining games recently. They ended January with a satisfying cup win against Weston; 90 minutes failed to separate the sides so it was the dreaded penalties which decided it, Bel eventually holding their nerve to take it 5-4. At the beginning of February a depleted squad travelled to Chew Magna, managing to salvage a highly creditable 4-3 victory with a last-minute clincher proving the difference. A week later brought a real challenge as table-toppers Peasedown came to the Blue: the hosts stayed resolute defensively and carried a threat on the counter but all in all were undone 3-2. After a busy schedule coupled with severe weather the pitch has felt the effects, but will hopefully be playable for the mouth-watering prospect of local rivals Wells A in the cup in what promises to be a spicy affair. Despite some mixed results, Belrose remain in the hunt for a trophy and must produce a strong run of consistency in order to keep up with the promotion chasers in Mid Somerset Division One. The men in red have shown plenty of promise and seem more solid, however require more possession and patience with the ball. Alex Fudge

Justin named in England squad DARTS SOMERSET darts player Justin Hood has been selected for the England squad for the forthcoming British Internationals. The call up comes after he made it through to the BDO World Championship in January. Glastonbury-based Justin, whose nickname is ‘Happy Feet’, has starred in the Wells darts league and represents Wells in the Superleague. The British Internationals will take place in Skegness from April 3-5.

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March 2020

45

n SPORT Appeal to older players of game

Walking football is a slower paced version of the game

FOOTBALL WALKING football sessions could be coming to Wells. Walking football is for over 50s who are looking to start playing again. The sport is good for fitness, and for meeting new friends. Angelo Ruiz, who hopes to start the sessions in Wells, already runs other groups in the area. Anyone interested is asked to call him on 07470 259513 or email angeloruiz@hotmail.co.uk

City side hot on heels of leading teams FOOTBALL WELLS City 1st team were thwarted by the weather when their game at Cheddar on February 15 was called off. They were looking to keep up their promotion push after winning two and drawing one of their previous four games. The sole defeat came against table-topping Calne Town, despite the visitors playing with ten men for most of the game. Calne took the lead in the eighth minute when Mark Randall fouled Chevallou as he was about to shoot, conceding a penalty that was duly dispatched. Seven minutes later Matt Hudson was sent off for Calne for a dangerous high tackle on Charlie Crook, but despite Wells coming close on several occasions – including Alex

Camm and Jack Spence both hitting the bar – Calne somehow held on. Randall was sent off in the 90th minute for a second yellow card. A battling performance a week later saw City draw with Warminster 3-3. Harry Foster opened the scoring on seven minutes after good work by Ross Padfield and Craig Herrod, but Warminster hit back, with Francois Allen on target twice before half-time. Miluk added a third for the visitors following a counterattack two minutes after the break, but Foster grabbed a second for himself and Wells three minutes later to cut the deficit. Dale Hunt, on the edge of the box, rode a challenge before unleashing an unstoppable shot into the far corner to level the scores 20 minutes from time.

Wells were back to winning ways with a 3-0 victory at home to Devizes on February 4. The first goal came on 30 minutes, Ross McErlain carrying the ball from deep before playing a defence-splitting through ball to Craig Herrod, who calmly slotted the ball into the far corner. A second followed two minutes later. A Herrod corner was headed back across goal by McErlain and Charlie Crook was on hand to power a header home. On the stroke of half time, a short corner saw Harvey Hadrill whip a ball into the box that was headed down by Padfield for Foster to smash home. Wells could have added to their tally in the second half but a Foster effort hit a post and the Devizes keeper made some superb saves, including from a Tom Hill penalty kick.

Back in action four days later, Wells recorded an emphatic win against Portishead Town, scoring four times without reply. They had to wait until added time at the end of the first half to break the deadlock, good intricate play between Charlie Crook and Craig Herrod setting up Harry Foster to turn the last defender and shoot high into net. Man of the match Tom Hill brilliantly finished from a tight angle 12 minutes into the second half to put Wells two up, and further goals followed from Ross McErlain, cutting inside his marker before firing low into the corner, and Crook with a diving header into the bottom corner. “A first half to forget but in the second half we controlled the game and deservedly got the three points,” said manager Nathan Truckle.

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46

March 2020

n TAKE A BREAK

Txtpert

The FIEND 8 3 6 5 4

Theme: human body

2 7 7 8 9 9

1

8 7

2

3

4

5

2 1

Use the phone keypad to decode the clues. For example: 2 could be A, B or C ... and 5678 could be LOST

7

Across 1. 7866224 5. 2523337 7. 24378 10. 7283552

6

8

9

10

3

Down 1. 7222 2. 674267 3. 2243 4. 4247 6. 327 8. 447 9. 863

4 4 5 3 1

6 4

For younger readers Solutions

Maths

1. 3 2. 14 3. 13 4. 6

H A I R

1 3 2 6 9 8 7 4 5

8 6 5 4 7 3 9 2 1

4 5 6 9 1 2 8 3 7

2 7 1 3 8 5 4 6 9

3 8 9 7 6 4 5 1 2

5 9 4 1 3 6 2 7 8

7 2 3 8 4 9 1 5 6

6 1 8 2 5 7 3 9 4

2

9 4 7 5 2 1 6 8 3

4

A

3

Txtpert

M A C C I D D E A T R O E L L

1

Fiend

S T O C R A G B L A N C H E S I P A T

Each row, column and square (9 spaces each) needs to be filled out with the numbers 1-9, without repeating any numbers within the row, column or square. In the version for younger readers, the numbers 1-4 need to appear in each row, column and 2x2 square

2

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March 2020 AERIALS

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