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Carnival to go quiet in tribute to Martin THIS year’s Wells City Carnival will be dedicated to Martin Coppell. Martin was chief marshal at the carnival for more than 20 years, but died of cancer in August. In what will be a moving tribute to him, this year’s parade will come to a halt near the fire station, where members of Martin’s family will be standing, and the first five carts will turn off their lights and music for a minute’s silence. The carnival programme features a picture of Martin on the cover, and a tribute to him inside from friend Merv Colenutt. Wells Carnival president Maurice Day, who will blow a whistle to mark the start and finish of the silence, writes in the programme: “This year is turning out to be the toughest year for a long time as we have suffered the sad loss of our Chief Marshal Martin Coppell. Continued on page 16
Lidl supermarket expansion plans Company plans enhancement of Wells store after acquiring adjoining Travis Perkins site Turn to page 5
Approval for GP practices merger Wells Health Centre and Wells City Practice welcome decision that they can become one Turn to page 8
Peacocks first of new arrivals Clothes chain to take half store space, with another brand and possibly post office to follow Turn to page 12 David Mather and Lou Bailey of Wells Mills Interest Group at the preview of an exhibition and launch of a booklet about Wells mills. They are standing in front of pictures of members of the Sheldon family – at one time the family owned all of the city’s mills. The exhibition continues until November 16 at Wells & Mendip Museum, where copies of the booklet are also available, priced £5.
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November 2019
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Survey seeks views on city’s skatepark Adrian and Bev Smith discuss plans for Wells skatepark, and invite people to give their views about it A NEW community group has formed with an aim to revitalise and raise funds for our skatepark in Wells. To have your say on this popular public space, please complete the survey or get in touch. With BMX racing at the 2008 Olympics, we are now set to see freestyle BMX establish itself alongside street and park skateboarding at the 2020 Olympic Games in Tokyo. BMX, skateboarding, roller skating and scooter riding are all activities that anyone can participate in at their own level and pace. There are many benefits, from promoting health and wellbeing to developing social skills and fostering a welcoming community of like-minded participants. The benefits to both the local community and individual health are huge. The group formed when local musician Adrian Smith posted a Facebook comment on the popular Wells Community Notice Board. Having visited some great skateparks with his young family over the summer, Adrian asked whether people in Wells wanted a skatepark they can be proud of. Lots of people responded and offered their support including Alain Boulos, founder of RampAid and a key person in the original development of the skatepark. John Osman, Mayor of Wells, was also quick to pledge his full support and has offered to help take the issue forward. The newly badged ‘Skatepark Wells’ community group have met with John and now intend
A campaign is gathering pace to give Wells a skatepark to be proud of to take proposals to the local council. They would love to get input from the wider local community, saying: “We want the skatepark to be a safe space to visit and attract a wide range of ages, abilities and activities, we have set up as a charity CIO and hope with the community and council we can make this happen.” You will find ‘SkateparkWells’ on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook. Get in touch, follow the park and please complete the survey (http://bit.ly/2B4I3t4). We are looking for feedback and support from the Wells community, and anyone that uses skateparks in the local area. You can also link to the survey via the QR code or email us at skateparkwells@gmail.com
BRIEF HISTORY OF THE SKATEPARK THE skatepark originally opened about 17 years ago. It was built through a partnership of skaters, and the city, district and county councils. The police also played a big part in the original fundraising. In 2012 there was a new campaign to save the park. Desmond Gripper was a key player and helped with the reopening, as well as a tidy up of the park, though he was well into his 90s. Wells Rotary Club raised money for resurfacing work on the ramps and the addition of new ramps such as the spine.
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wellsvoice
November 2019
www.wellsvoice.co.uk CONTAC TS Editor and publisher Andy Vallis andy@wellsvoice.co.uk 07906 499655 01749 675157 Advertising sales@wellsvoice.co.uk 01749 675157 Editorial news@wellsvoice.co.uk 07906 499655 01749 675157
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LOC AL INFORMATION
DECEMBER DEADLINE
Wells City Council www.wells.gov.uk 01749 673091 Police www.avonandsomerset.police.uk General inquiries: 101 Emergency: 999 Fire www.dsfire.gov.uk General inquiries: 01392 872 200 Emergency: 999 NHS www.nhs.uk Urgent calls: 111 Emergency: 999
To ensure your news or letter is included in the December issue, please contact us by November 13.
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COMPL AINTS Despite our best efforts, we sometimes get things wrong. We always try to resolve issues informally at first but we also have a formal complaints procedure. If you have a complaint about anything in Wells Voice, contact the Editor using the details above. We aspire to follow the Code of Conduct of the NUJ (National Union of Journalists), which holds journalists to a high standard of behaviour. Further details of the complaints process can be found on the Wells Voice website, or can be obtained by contacting the Editor.
PUBLISHER’S NOTE: Wells Voice is independent. We cannot take responsibility for content or accuracy of adverts, and it is advertisers’ responsibility to conform to all relevant legislation. We cannot vouch for any services offered. Opinions are not necessarily those of the editor. Wells Voice is distributed each month to residents. Feedback is always welcomed – email news@wellsvoice.co.uk. This month 6,800 copies will be distributed around Wells and surrounding villages.
Nearly 100 people attended a 1950s’ Retro Night at The Swan Hotel on October 12 in aid of Macmillan Cancer Support. The evening, organised by Michele Bishop and Judith Hill of Wells accountants Bishop Jones, raised £1,030. Michele is pictured, centre, receiving a certificate of thanks from chairman of Wells & District Macmillan Cancer Support group Mark Tobin and Zoe Newton of The Swan Hotel. It was the second time that Bishop Jones have organised the Retro Night, and they are now planning next year’s event.
Advent Windows to be repeated THE St Thomas Street Advent Windows was such a success last year that it is going to be repeated this December. Twenty-four windows were lit up one after the other from December 1 to December 24, 2018, to reveal a Christmas scene. This year, all the residents with windows in the street are being invited to take part, so there could be more than one window opening each evening at 5pm. Maps of the windows taking part will be displayed in the street as well as on flyers around Wells. “We had lovely feedback from everyone who visited last year,
with plenty of people walking up and down the street each evening to seek them out,” said organiser Shirley Offer. “This year there may well be some ‘live’ events – we are in the early stages of planning, so we shall have to see what happens. “We were active on Facebook and Instagram last year and posted the new windows each evening, so we will do the same again. It created a real community feel in the street; this time we’re hoping more houses will take part. “We raised money for Wells Connect Centre last year and plan to do the same again.”
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November 2019
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Lidl plans for expansion of Wells store THE Lidl supermarket in Strawberry Way, Wells, could become bigger. The company has told Wells Voice that it has acquired the neighbouring Travis Perkins builders’ merchants site with a view to enlarging the store. A company spokesman said: “We can confirm that we have acquired the Travis Perkins site adjacent to our existing store which will enable us to enhance our store offering in Wells.” The German discount chain has been popular with British customers since the first store opened here in 1994, and it has steadily increased its share of the grocery market. It has more than 760 stores around the country, with ambitious plans to expand further. BristolLive has reported that it wants to open 13 new stores in the Bristol area alone. Meanwhile, a planning application has been submitted
Lidl says that it wants to enhance its store offering in Wells to Mendip District Council for the proposed demolition of the Travis Perkins buildings, with
work intended to take place in April 2021. The application says the
reason for the demolition is because the buildings are no longer fit for purpose. The application has been made by construction and development company Soldi, which has its head office in Radstock. The company’s website reports on a number of projects it has worked on – including projects for Lidl in Bridgwater, Yeovil and Exeter. Travis Perkins says it is looking at what its options might be when it does move from Strawberry Way. A spokesperson said: “The lease for our Travis Perkins branch in Strawberry Way in Wells is up for renewal in January 2021. “While we remain committed to our customers and the local community here and would have liked to remain on site, we have started to explore alternative options if the lease is now not renewed.”
Ruby, 7, shames litter pests Your local legal experts Services for you • Residential property
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Ruby Marks out picking up litter, above, and her poster to get the message across to others, top right
SEVEN-YEAR-OLD Ruby Marks has become passionate about picking up litter. She has taken her lead from her grandmother, Tracey Simpson, one of the original clean-up team in the litter picks around Wells organised by Councillor Celia Wride. Now Ruby wants to get the message across to others with a poster she has designed. “She is passionate about picking up litter and has even got her mother to buy her a litter picker,” said Tracey. Ruby said: “People should not litter. It affects our planet and it’s bad for wildlife.”
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November 2019
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Bowls club thanks paramedics by making donation WELLS Bowls Club has made a donation to South Western Ambulance Charity to thank its volunteers for serving the local community. Club president Jane Rossiter presented a cheque for £120 to the Wells Community First Responders (CFR) group on behalf of the charity at the club’s annual awards ceremony on September 30. Jane said: “It is a pleasure to raise a small amount of money to repay the huge debt that is owed to all of these volunteers by our community.” CFRs are trained volunteers who attend emergency incidents on behalf of SWASFT within their local communities. They respond to potential life-
threatening emergency calls where it is essential for the patient to receive immediate care before the ambulance crew arrives. The Wells CFR group has been running since 2002 and has three active members. Each responder provides approximately 15 hours of voluntary emergency cover each week for their community on top of their day jobs. They are supported by the ambulance service responder liaison officer, Lidia Griguoli, who is a specialist paramedic. People aged over 18 who are interested in becoming a CFR can find out more at www.jobs. nhs.uk
SWASFT specialist paramedic Lidia Griguoli, CFR Graham White, CFR John Hill, CFR Brian Charles and Wells Bowls Club president Jane Rossiter
Fire service decision put back
New workshop by mosaic artist
now scheduled for Wednesday, December 18. Chief Fire Officer Lee Howell said: “I’d like to thank the thousands of people who have taken the time to share their views through the consultation. It has been a great opportunity to openly discuss our challenges and proposed solutions with people across our two counties. “I appreciate that moving the decision extends the uncertainty for our staff and communities who are affected by the proposals. We don’t take any proposals to close stations or remove fire engines lightly which is why it is vital that we take time to thoroughly analyse and carefully consider the responses.”
CALLING all budding mosaic artists: Ruth Ames-White, the mosaic artist behind the giant Wells in Mosaic project and also the Project Factory Community Mosaic, will be running another one-day mosaic workshop on Saturday, November 23. This ‘Inspired by Nature’ workshop is open to any level of experience as Ruth will guide participants through each stage of the process in the relaxed and friendly atmosphere of her Wells studio. The day starts at 10am and runs until 4pm. The cost is £75 and includes all materials, use of tools, refreshments and a homemade lunch. Places are limited. Contact Ruth to book at Ruth@rawmosaics.co.uk.
A MEETING for Fire Authority members to decide on changes to the way Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service operates has been moved to December following a high response to the consultation. Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Authority consulted over the summer on proposals to modernise the service. The proposals aim to reduce fire appliances and stations in areas of low risk and low activity so that the service can reinvest in prevention work to reduce the risk of incidents occurring. For Wells, it could mean the loss of one of the city’s two fire engines during the day. During the 12-week
consultation, the service received about 3,300 completed surveys, 700 written submissions, and five petitions. All responses are being independently analysed by Opinion Research Services (ORS) who will provide the Fire Authority with the findings from the consultation. Due to the large amount of submissions and analysis needed, ORS require more time to thoroughly review the responses to the consultation. Because of this, the Fire Authority meeting to review the results of the consultation and decide upon the future of the service, which was due to take place in early November, is
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wellsvoice
November 2019
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PRIORY D E N TA L WELLS
Priory Dental are pleased to announce that we are nearing the end of an extensive refurbishment programme, allowing us to offer the very best in modern advanced dental care in Wells. We are accepting new patients to see our experienced dental team. We do not charge more for new patients, and our dental plans start from only £9.49/month. Please see www.priorydental.com/fees for full details.
OCTOBER’S Repair Cafe was another successful event with more than 30 items brought for repair, lots of interesting ideas for sustainable living to look at, crafty demonstrations, lovely people to chat to and delicious coffee/tea and cake to enjoy. This month, bike repair was also introduced, with Jacob Allen doing a good job on a bike with
dodgy brakes. At the next Repair Cafe, on Saturday, December 7, at St Thomas’ Church Hall, St Thomas Street, between 10am and 12.30pm, it is hoped to have more bikes arriving for repair or tuning. Anyone who has a bike in their shed who would like to be able to use that instead of a car is welcome to take it along.
Celebrations galore in Palace’s 800th year THE Bishop’s Palace in Wells is looking forward to a very significant birthday next year as it celebrates 800 years since the beginning of the building’s construction. In 1206 Bishop Jocelyn moved the home of the Bishop of Bath and Glastonbury to Wells, and in 1207 was granted land by King John to the south of the Cathedral for a deer park and new palace. As Jocelyn was occupied by matters of state, went into exile until 1213, and was then embroiled in the first Baron’s Revolt until 1217, the construction of his new Palace is likely to have begun in 1220. To celebrate the 800th anniversary of the Palace, The Palace Trust is planning a yearlong programme of celebratory community events to take place throughout 2020. Plans so far include:
n A pageant to celebrate the eight centuries of history during early May. n A celebratory evensong at Wells Cathedral. n A Medieval Fair taking place in and around the Palace site during August Bank Holiday weekend. n A programme of talks from prominent historians and archaeologists. n A six-month exhibition to tell the stories and intrigues of life at the Palace through events from the nine centuries of its history. n Community events, themed family activities and workshops based on these stories to celebrate the history of the Palace. The Palace 800 events will take place alongside the normal calendar of Palace flagship events, such as the Garden Festival and Christmas at the Palace.
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Merger of two GP practices agreed
THE two GP practices in Wells have welcomed a decision to allow them to merge. Somerset Clinical Commissioning Group gave the go-ahead after discussing the proposal at a hearing panel on October 21. Wells City Practice and Wells Health Centre submitted an application to merge earlier this year as they believe a merger will help them to meet the present and future primary care needs of their patients. The new practice will be called Wells Health Partnership, and the merger date is set for Wednesday, April 1, 2020. “We are pleased to report that the merger has been approved, and look forward to realising the benefits of becoming one practice for whole of Wells,” said
Dr Josephine Newton, Partner at Wells City Practice. To explain more to patients, a list of ‘frequently asked questions’ and answers can be found on both practices websites, and copies will be available in both reception areas. The two practices were moved from separate sites in Wells to a purpose-built surgery at Priory Health Park in 2004. They kept their separate identities and patient lists while delivering the same services from the same building, but a number of discussions have taken place over the past few years about whether the two practices should merge. There are no plans to change the location of the practice once the merger takes place, and patients will keep their current named GP.
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Residents offered advice on remaining well this winter SOMERSET Clinical Commissioning Group is encouraging residents to get ready for winter early this year by taking measures now to ensure they stay safe throughout the cold weather this winter. Cold weather is a major risk factor for falls and traffic accidents and it can also aggravate existing health conditions, particularly respiratory disorders. Group chair Dr Ed Ford, a GP in Minehead, said: “Winter can be an especially difficult time for people, especially for those living with long-term conditions, the elderly and people living with disabilities. It is therefore important that those who are able to help those who are less capable do so. “There are some simple things we can all do to help everyone stay well this winter. For example, make sure that your elderly or vulnerable friends and relatives are keeping their home warm (at least 18 degrees), have enough food in the house and are wearing appropriate clothing for the weather. For those living alone, the risk is higher still. If you have an elderly neighbour who lives alone, please check in on them every now and then to make sure they are OK – just a quick chat is all that’s needed. “The easiest way to make sure you stay well this winter is by having the flu jab. The flu jab is
Dr Ed Ford free to everyone who meets the criteria. You should have the flu jab if you are 65 years old or over or are pregnant, have certain medical conditions, are living in a long-stay residential care home or other long-stay care facility, and receive a carers allowance or are the main carer for an elderly or disabled person whose welfare may be at risk if you fall ill. “Children in primary school, children aged between two and three years old and children over the age of six months with a longterm health condition are also eligible for the flu jab. “I’d encourage anyone who meets the criteria above, or whose children or loved ones meet the criteria, to talk to their GP practice or pharmacist for more information about how they can get their free flu jab.” Ed added: “Frontline health and social care workers are also eligible to receive the flu jab.”
Improved access service changes
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THE way that local GP surgeries provide improved access to services has changed. Patients can still access appointments between 6.30pm and 8pm each week night, and on Saturday mornings from 8am11am, but this will now take place in Wells, Glastonbury and Street. The practices providing the service are: Wells City Practice, Wells Health Centre, Glastonbury Surgery, Glastonbury Health Centre and Vine Surgery Partnership. Each surgery will take turns in offering a late-night clinic throughout the week and on Saturdays. Health staff working evenings and weekends will have
access to medical records and will be able to provide the same high standard of care as patients would expect during normal opening times. Patient records will only ever be accessed with their consent and all information will be kept confidential. The appointments available will be a mixture of GP, Nurse Practitioner and Practice Nurse. To book an Improved Access appointment, patients should contact their own surgery in the usual way. n Those who are entitled to a free NHS flu vaccination should book now. GP practices preorder a vaccination for every eligible patient.
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November 2019
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Plans to improve chapel and widen its use PROPOSALS are being drawn up for the restoration and improvement of the City of Wells Almshouses Chapel to safeguard it for the future and allow it to be opened up for wider community use. A presentation was held in the chapel on October 9 to explain the plans and seek support and ideas for the future. Architect Marcus Chantrey, who is drawing up the proposals, highlighted some of the renovation work that is required, such as to prevent leaks and repair wood panelling. Among potential new ideas he discussed were replacing the wooden doors either side of the chapel entrance with glass doors, to reveal a view from outside of the acclaimed Bubwith gardens, and replacing the timber balustrade across the front of the gallery above the chapel with a glass balustrade, so that people in the gallery have a better view
The City of Wells Almshouses Chapel as seen from the gallery of the chapel. The plans could see a ramp introduced to give greater access to the chapel and also much needed improvements to the lighting and heating. The almshouse trustees are
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going to launch a fundraising appeal for the improvement work, with a target figure of £250,000 by December 31, 2020. Chair of Trustees Nick Wilson said: “We have been on
a campaign as trustees to raise awareness of the almshouses buildings because they are a very important part of the community. “Our intention is to unlock the doors of the chapel so as to share this historic asset with the people of Wells and the wider community, whilst preserving its original purpose and using any income to support the residents of the almshouses.” The chapel has already hosted talks and concerts, but the trustees would like to hold them more often in the future, as well as small exhibitions, lectures, and other small-scale events. They are also looking into the possibility of holding weddings in the chapel. The original almshouse buildings of which the chapel is a part were built in 1436 and are Grade II listed. u The Death of Arthur, page 15
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The wise choice... ACTORY • RF
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November 2019
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RED IN OU TU
New or existing conservatory solid roofs Becky Cooper-Collett (Wells Royal British Legion secretary), Aaron CooperCollett (Wells RBL chairman) and Derek Cooper (Poppy Appeal organiser) with two of the new banners
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New banners unveiled and new pop-up shop NEW Remembrance banners are being displayed along Wells High Street this year. The banners, designed by Wells Film Centre’s graphic designer Abbie Thomas, have been attached to the metal poles on each side of the street. They replace last year’s large red poppies, which will be hung instead on the railings opposite the Swan Hotel. The Wells Royal British Legion branch also has a pop-up shop in High Street this year. For two weeks, from October 26 until November 11, it has been granted free use by the landlord of what was the Superbook store. “I’m so pleased. We’ve wanted to do this for years,” said Poppy Appeal organiser Derek Cooper. Members of the public will be able to visit the shop to buy
items or make donations, and Poppy Appeal volunteers will also be able to make use of the site. This year’s Remembrance Sunday service on November 10 takes place at St Cuthbert’s Church at 10.15am. It will be followed by the silence at the War Memorial in the churchyard at 11am and the wreath-laying. There will be a parade up High Street at 11.15am where the civic party will take the salute, and it will continue on to the Harry Patch Memorial outside Wells & Mendip Museum for a short service and wreath-laying there. The following roads will be closed from 8am to noon on November 10: St Cuthbert Street, Priest Row, Queen Street, Mill Street, Guardhouse Lane, High Street and Sadler Street.
Curry and quiz from mosaic team THE Wells in Mosaic team are going from strength to strength with the design now complete and due to be revealed soon. They are now inviting people to get their thinking caps on and join them for a Quiz & Curry night on Saturday, November 9, at 7pm at the Connect Centre in Chamberlain Street. The quiz has been written by the Grand Master of Pub
Quizzes, Steve Wilson, with prizes for the winning team and a bar selling Indian beers, wine and soft drinks throughout the evening. The curry will be served at half time with nan bread, mango chutney and a choice of vegetarian or chicken curry. Teams can book tickets at www.wellsinmosaic.org, £10 per person to include the curry and quiz.
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wellsvoice
November 2019
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Brave abseilers raise more than £50,000 By Emma James ON the evening of Sunday, October 6, the 350th abseiler touched down at the base of Wells Cathedral’s North West Tower. The first abseil took place on September 27, with participants fundraising for the charity SOS Africa – and between them they raised more than £50,000. The money will fund comprehensive reading programmes for 340 disadvantaged children in South Africa. One of those sponsored was Paula Denyer, who works for Wells Cathedral. She said: “I have four children who are very lucky to have access to books and an excellent education. So, to have the chance to help those children in South Africa who don’t have those opportunities was a great privilege. “Stepping off the platform was the most terrifying thing I have ever experienced. Once I was off and could feel the control of the ropes, the adrenaline kicked in. I even managed to stop to entertain the onlookers with a little pose and a plea for more sponsorship. “By the time my feet landed on firm ground I wished I could do it all again.” Paula recently lost more than six stone with the Cambridge Weight Plan 1:1 Diet. Her consultant, Caroline McKinnell, said: “I’m so proud of her. She would have been well over the upper weight limit before, so this
Paula Denyer abseiling down Wells Cathedral’s North West Tower abseil, as well as being incredibly brave, was also a testament to her dedication in losing weight.” Another participant, June Ward, aged 84, raised £500 for SOS Africa. Before her abseil, she was forced to wait in the tower while the bells were ringing. She said: “It was a really wonderful day and to be trapped in the tower with the bells ringing made the whole experience even more unforgettable.” SOS Africa charity founder Matt Crowcombe described the scene as the event came to a close: “The fundraising total had reached £49,960. By that time,
large crowds had gathered to see the final abseilers descend and they all did a whip round to see us over the £50,000 fundraising mark. “It was a memorable moment and everyone cheered when the funds were handed in, an unforgettable climax to the most successful weekend in the charity’s history. On behalf of the hundreds of children in South Africa who will benefit from your bravery, a big thank you to all our abseilers, their sponsors, the Cathedral staff, our instructors, volunteers and the thousands who came to support throughout the two weekends. “Our current total stands at £53,600. We are already planning a very exciting event for 2020 based at another iconic venue in Somerset. Watch this space...” Donations can still be made to the charity via its website, www. sosafrica.com
Rugantino Restaurant Well established family-run Italian restaurant and hotel since 1976 Rugantino’s will be opening for pre-concert and event dinners at Cedars Hall and Wells Cathedral from 5.00pm until 6.30pm. Booking essential please
Fixed price menu: two courses £20
The Ancient Gatehouse Hotel, Sadler Street, Wells, BA5 2SE (opposite the Cathedral). Only five minutes’ walk to Cedars Hall
Matt Crowcombe leads celebrations after fundraising topped £50,000
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Tel: 01749 672029 Email: info@ancientgatehouse.co.uk
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Sitting with the cheque at the Freemasons meeting in Wells are Heads Up fundraising manager Claire Hak, left, and manager Bridget Harvey
Donation illustrates Freemasons’ benevolent nature BENEVOLENT Lodge 446 is the name of the Masonic Lodge that meets in Wells and it lived up to its name by donating £1,500 to local mental health charity Heads Up. The presentation was made during a masonic meeting with the members in full dress
regalia. Provincial Grand Charity Steward, David Maddern joined Lodge Charity Steward, John Law to present Heads Up manager Bridget Harvey and fundraising officer Claire Hak with the cheque. In 2017 Somerset Freemasons donated £25,000 to Heads
Up, which is based at South Horrington, to celebrate 300 years of the forming of the United Grand Lodge of England. John said: “This is a very deserving charity and we as a lodge, together with the Somerset Masonic Charities, are pleased to be able to continue to support
them in the excellent work that they do.” Bridget responded by saying that she was overawed by the generosity of the Masonic fraternity and that the money would be put to extremely good use. Philip Welch
New Peacocks store set to open soon THE new Peacocks store in Wells High Street is due to open in the first two weeks of November. Work has been taking place to prepare half of what was previously the What! shop for use by the fashion chain. A spokesperson for Peacocks said: “We very much look forward to opening our new store in Wells, and we are delighted to be joining the local high street.” Exactly what will fill the other half of the site is still being considered, but it seems likely that it will be used for one of parent company the Edinburgh Woollen Mill Group’s other stable of brands such as Jaeger. A bid is also being made to bring Wells Post Office into the store. The Market Place branch is due to close when Postmaster Kevin Truman retires but a
Work under way inside the new Peacocks store, left, which has been advertising for staff, and an example of a store interior planned move to Spar in Tucker Street fell through. A Post Office spokesperson said: “We can confirm that there is an interested applicant who wants to take on Wells Post Office in their High Street store. We are not yet at the stage where we can announce our plans. “In the meantime, we are
To advertise, contact Andy on 01749 675157
delighted that the current Postmaster for Wells has agreed to stay on to maintain service in the city.” The move by Peacocks means that the application to take on the post office by Heather and Nigel Derrick of Natural Pets of Wells in Queen Street will not be progressing any further.
“We are naturally very disappointed because we were working hard on the application and thought that this would be a good site for the post office although we completely understand why the High Street premises now being offered by Peacocks is the preferred location. As long as Wells is getting to keep its post office and the staff are getting to keep their jobs then that’s what is most important,” said Heather. “It was lovely for us, though, that so many people took the trouble to pop in and be supportive, initially to say they were delighted we had applied and then more recently to say they were sorry it didn’t work out. The community support in Wells has been amazing, thank you.”
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Band a hit in intimate art gallery concert WELLS band The Portraits launched their new album in September with their first concert in Wells. An enthusiastic audience enjoyed a 75-minute set from married duo Lorraine and Jeremy Millington in the intimate surroundings of the Andelli Art Gallery. The pair were accompanied by Vincent Imbert on violin and a number of talented students from Wells Blue School. Lorraine is co-chair of the school’s PTA, and by donating 20 per cent of their album sales and holding a collection at the concert, they raised more than £300 in funds for the PTA. The Portraits performed at this year’s Glastonbury Festival, but Lorraine said: “The concert in Wells was without a doubt our best live event of 2019 so far. All the elements fell into place: we had a wonderful, packed crowd, were joined on stage by some super up-and-coming musical talent, and raised considerable funds for the school. It was a win-win-win.” The new album, For Our Times, was entirely created in Wells, from conception to mastering, with a number of Blue School students performing instrumental parts on the recording, including flautist Sam Jordan, saxophonist Bryn Jennings and harpist Flora Mackintosh Allen, as well as Ciara Millington, Lorraine and Jeremy’s daughter, on violin. The 13 songs are about 2019, in particular the divisions in politics and fortune. The
Top, from left, Vincent Imbert, Lorraine and Jeremy Millington, Sam Jordan, Bryn Jennings, Flora Mackintosh Allen and Ciara Millington; above, Lorraine, Vincent and Jeremy sign the album cover (seen above right) album cover and photography came from local designer Andy Jennings – partner of Andelli owner Ellie Jones – and
photographer Neil Juggins. Ellie said: “Andy and I were thrilled to host the launch of The Portraits’ new album. It was such an enjoyable and memorable evening. Great music, with an enthusiastic crowd of appreciative music lovers. We were delighted that our gallery proved to be a perfect venue to complement The Portraits. Surrounded by paintings, it proved to be a cosy, intimate and sociable event. “Lorraine and Jeremy had become very good friends, and when they suggested playing a concert at our home, we were up for it. It was perfect, really. If you’re going to have a gig in a gallery, what better than to do so with a band named The Portraits?
“After the concert, while Lorraine and Jeremy were chatting to fans, we heard one of their songs, Except For Me, playing on Tom Robinson’s Music show on Radio 6 show in the background... and that finished the evening off nicely. “Moving the furniture around to accommodate the band and seating for 60 was a bit of effort, but the next morning Lorraine and Jeremy helped us put everything back in order. Not very rock’n’roll I suppose, but very much appreciated from the most considerate of bands.” Blue School headteacher Mark Woodlock, who attended the concert, said: “I thought the concert was very good and it was terrific to hear of the sums raised – thank you very much to all involved.”
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Free parking boost for local businesses THERE will be free parking in Wells on Saturday, December 7, for Small Business Saturday. Mendip District Council is offering free car parking in Union Street car park in Wells, as well as one car park in Frome, Glastonbury, Shepton Mallet and Street, to support the Small Business Saturday event which takes place on the first Saturday in December each year. Small Business Saturday highlights small business success and encourages consumers to ‘shop local’ and support small businesses in their communities. On Small Business Saturday, customers across the UK go out and support all types of small businesses, online, in offices and in stores. Many small businesses take part in the day by hosting events and offering discounts. Councillor Nick Cottle, Portfolio Holder for Neighbourhood Services, which includes car parks, said: “We are delighted to be supporting Small Business Saturday and hope that
Small Business Saturday encourages people to shop local businesses can take advantage of the day and plan events to make the most of the free parking being made available on December 7. “The free car parking offer helps encourage the message of shopping locally and supporting the businesses in Mendip.” Now in its seventh year in the UK, Small Business Saturday has grown significantly each year with an estimated £812 million spent in small businesses across the UK on 2018’s Small Business Saturday – an eight per cent increase on the previous year.
Free coach parking to continue AN 18-month free coach parking trial in Wells and Glastonbury has been given the green light to continue. Mendip District Council has decided to offer free coaching parking at the two locations indefinitely. Portfolio Holder for Neighbourhood Services, Councillor Nick Cottle, said: “Following informal customer and business feedback, the free
parking facility for coaches has seen an increase in tourists and has been positively received by both bus and coach companies as well as the visitors. “We hope that by fully adopting the free coach parking in the two locations, we will see continual growth in the number of visitors and thus increasing tourism, footfall in the High Streets and use and support of our local businesses.”
Storyteller will give new twist to ancient tale with harpist’s help THE story of King Arthur, King of Britain after the Romans left, has been told and retold countless times. It will be told again in the City of Wells Almshouses’ beautiful Bubwith Chapel on November 20, at 7pm. The story pulsates with love, romance, betrayal, loss, revenge and hope. All these human emotions, and some not so human, combine to make this evening an unforgettable one for adults and older children. The traditional telling of the story would have been given before an expectant gathering by a skilled and dramatic storyteller who would have held the audience gripped and engaged for hours on end. The almshouses storyteller, Beth Webb, in this exact tradition, but in a shorter span of time, will retell the tale of the Death of King Arthur with harpist Owen Hanner. Beth has performed her
A First World War centenary event in the chapel last November own dramatic version of many ancient stories all over the UK, including at The Bishop’s Palace in Wells. There will be an entrance fee of £10 including a complimentary drink. Tickets will be on sale from Monday, November 4. Email manager@ wellsalmshouses.org.uk or telephone 01749 675813. All proceeds will go to the restoration of the 15th century chapel.
The City of Wells Almshouses present
THE DEATH OF ARTHUR AN ANCIENT TALE OF LOSS, REVENGE AND HOPE WITH STORYTELLER BETH WEBB AND HARPIST OWEN HANNER
Fingerposts being looked after SIGNPOSTS, like phone boxes, may be needed less in the age of smartphones and satnavs but they are still a much-loved feature of the local landscape. That’s why St Cuthbert Out Parish Council is having fingerposts repaired and repainted in all the villages it serves around Wells. Some of them were looking very shabby with place names difficult to read as paintwork failed.
“The fingerposts are owned by Somerset County Council,” said St Cuthbert Out chairman Jim Reeves. “But they asked us to look after them as they can’t spare the funds. “They have historical importance as only a few counties decided to replace them after the Second World War.” The parish council contracted local firm Somerset Forge of Easton to do the work.
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The Bubwith Chapel City of Wells Almshouses, Chamberlain Street, Wells 20th November 2019. Storytelling begins 7pm
Tickets £10.00 on sale Monday 4 November email manager@wellsalmshouses.org.uk or telephone 01749 675813 Refreshments, including a complimentary drink, in the Guild Room afterwards
Email: news@wellsvoice.co.uk
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November 2019
n WELLS CITY CARNIVAL
Tribute to long-time chief marshal Martin From page 1
“If some of the local clubs had got in front of us, you could hear the disappointment in her voice “We were hoping to celebrate so Frank would make an excuse, together as I have been involved ‘Lighting or generator failure in carnival for 50 years and but can all be fixed, still all to Martin had been in his 21st year play for at the next carnival, our as our main man. I hope you will fortunes are bound be generous with to improve,’ which your donations in was all she wanted to memory of Martin hear.” this year and wish Wells City Band you all a safe and will lead the parade, enjoyable carnival WELLS which starts at 7pm 2019.” on Friday, November Martin has been illuminated 15, and will continue succeeded as chief CARNIVAL along the route while marshal by Rob the carts come to a Petch, who has been Friday 15th November 2019 halt behind them at a member of the the fire station. carnival committee New collectors for 20 years. 7PM have come forward Globe are this year, but more are welcome dedicating their entry to founder to join them. Anyone who would member Gladys Parsons, who like to carry a bucket around the also died earlier this year. The route is asked to register on the club said in their programme night at Wells Film Centre from notes: “Gladys had a great love 5pm onwards. for the carnival community, she More committee members made lots of friends. She loved are also welcome, as is any the rivalry and competition. Glad individual or business that never bad mouthed anyone in would like to get involved carnival but did like the Globe to with the carnival through the do well. The morning after each committee’s patronage system. carnival she would ring up to More details from Nancy Dodd ask if everyone was OK then ask on 01749 672246. ‘How did we do?’ A COMMEMORATIVE
programme
ROAD CLOSURES NOVEMBER 13-15 n Wells Relief Road (from Dulcote junction at Dulcote to Thompson Road junction) closed to all vehicles from 7.30pm on Wednesday, November 13, to 2am on Thursday, November 14. n Wells Relief Road (from Dulcote junction at Dulcote to Glastonbury Road junction) closed as necessary at the discretion of the police to all west-bound traffic from 7.30pm on Wednesday, November 13, to 3.30pm on Friday, November 15, and to all traffic from 9am-11pm on Friday, November 15. n Unclassified road from the western side of Dulcote to Warminster and unclassified roads from western side of Dulcote to road from A39 south of Wells at Browne’s Nursery to North Wootton via Launcherley, closed to all vehicles at the discretion of the police from 6pm to midnight on Friday, November 15. n Strawberry Way North & South, Durkheim Drive and Sheldon Drive
in memory of MARTIN COPPELL
closed to all vehicles except for local access from 6pm-11pm on Friday, November 15 (but access to local businesses to be maintained). n Burcott Road (east of Coronation Road), Tucker Street, West Street and Wells Relief Road (from Dinder Lodge junction to Glastonbury Road junction) closed to all vehicles at the discretion of the police from 3.30pm11pm on Friday, November 15. n A39 Tin Bridge roundabout Glastonbury to Wells and vice-versa closed to all vehicles at the discretion of the police from 6pm-midnight on Friday, November 15. n Broad Street, Chamberlain Street, Constitution Hill (towards Dulcote junction), Glastonbury Road, High Street, Mountery Road, New Street (south of The Liberty), Portway (Coronation Road to New Street/ Chamberlain Street), Priory Road, St Andrews Street (west of East Liberty), Sadler Street, Tor Street and Whiting Way closed to all vehicles at the discretion of the police from 4.30pm11pm on Friday, November 15.
To advertise, contact Andy on 01749 675157
GLOBE “LONDON’S calling to our faraway towns, War has been declared and battle come down, Our engines are set and our tracks are clear, the Steampunk Revolution is here.” For their 51st year the Globe Carnival Club have gone underground as the Steampunk revolution begins. Set deep inside the London underground the entry features members riding on board Victorian-style engines as the uprising against the elite in power on the streets above gains momentum. Sadly, founder member Gladys Parsons passed away this year. Back in 1968 along with a handful of fellow work colleagues, Gladys was instrumental in the forming of the Unigate Carnival Club based at the factory in the city. Gladys was to become club treasurer, a role she held well into the 1990s. Gladys was a keen supporter of the Globe and Wells City Carnival right till the end and would always try and make it to the shed for a look/inspection a day or two before the carnival, and make it out for lunch with the club on Wells carnival day. Glad was the head of the Globe’s carnival family and she will be greatly missed by all, but her memory will live with the club forever. This year’s entry is dedicated to the lady who 51 years ago had the idea of forming a small carnival club and ended up bringing enjoyment to 1000s. Rest in peace Gladys Parsons. The club would like to thank CRS Building Supplies Ltd, Jeremy Weare Ltd, MTL Group Ltd, SG Weighing & Controls Ltd, L & V Contract Carpentry, Simon Love Brick Laying, Twilight Zone (Glastonbury),
Globe founder member Gladys Parsons, who passed away this year Glastonbury Skip Hire Ltd, Avon Motor & Engineering Supplies Ltd, Mogers Drewett Solicitors and Somerset Forge for their support in the 2019 carnival season.
COBRA THIS year we will be taking Cobra Carnival Club to Latin America to celebrate “Dia De Los Muertos”. The Day of the Dead is a celebration of loved ones who are believed to return on this day to celebrate with family. Our cart is an explosion of colours and joy, we have incorporated some of our members’ loved ones within the cart design to give it that personal touch. Cobra would like to thank everybody who has helped out in various ways throughout the year, it is always very much appreciated. This season our performers are: Charlotte Serpis, Joy Melluish, Clair Melluish, Beth Browne, Kay Townsend, Sarah Townsend, Stacey Harmon, Joe Harris, Simon Harris, Ella Heasman, Samuel Heasman, Matthew Heasman, Jack Heasman, Cliff Heasman and Bev Parsons. A special thanks to our ground crew, Vince Graham (tractor driver), Simon Melluish, Chris Smith, Jordan Haynes, Louise Heasman, Laura Burfield, Joe Pickersgill, Jon Hael, Carol Plenty, Owen Martin and Alex Cray.
MENDIP VALE Last year’s Cobra carnival entry Picture: Daniel Hoff Photography
FOR 2019, Mendip Vale CC are heading to the USA where they are “rolling on the river”.
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n WELLS CITY CARNIVAL The entry is based on the famous Mississippi showboats that provided entertainment all across the Deep South of America in the 1800s. The initial idea was brought to a club meeting in midJanuary, whereupon various teams worked on what the club could reuse and plan to use for the season. Joint cart captains Matt Lukins and Arron Phipps undertook a project of overseeing their last year’s cart, The Windmill Club, being stripped down, and starting again to build up the showboat. Whilst on holiday in America, one of their members even took a trip down the river on the oldest Mississippi showboat, and took many photos to make sure they got the detail of some elements of the boat exactly right. Chairman Mini Shepherd said: “It’s always a struggle to think of new ideas, because every club out there that you see will be looking to do something slightly different to the other 50 clubs on the road, and also we always want to try something different to what we have done as a club before... we’ve tried to give it an extra special twist.” The club has the showboat girls, the captain of the ship, and of course the giant paddle steamer wheel, to ensure they float nicely down the streets of Wells on a cold November evening. Chairman, Mini Shepherd; Secretary, Tara Mulvey; Treasurer, Rosemary Richards; Social secretary, Arron Phipps; Captains, Matt Lukins and Arron Phipps; Designer, Ashley Guise; Costumes and dance routine, the ladies of the club. The club are lucky to have great support all year, and would like to thank them all, including
Members of Gorgons Carnival Club. Their entry this year is entitled The Workshop Vern Hill, Mike Churches, Chick Stott, Titch Masters, Joby Sargent and AJ Luke Contracting.
GORGONS GORGONS Carnival Club’s 2019 entry is titled The Workshop. Music: Sparkle Jolly Twinkle Jingly. Headquarters: The Britannia Inn, Wells. Idea by Shelly Ford and George Pickford; Design by Paul Pickersgill; Cart captain: Matt Andrews; Chairperson: Harriet Fowler; Secretary: Shelly Ford. It was the night before Christmas and the North Pole was bustling. Some elves were working hard, and some were hardly working... The workshop is where Santa’s elves make the toys and presents for all of the good boys and girls of the world ready for Christmas Day, but will they be ready in time? With these naughty elves, who knows. Each elf has their own name, see how many you can spot, and how many cracker jokes are those naughty elves going to come up with?
This year the club has decided to enter into the comic class, in the last few years the club’s membership has decreased, which means the club are only able to pull out a two-piece entry. This year we thought that by entering comic the club would be able to have some fun. The carnival club are always looking for new members to help fundraise, build the cart and perform. Membership is 7 years
old and above (under 16-yearolds must have a family member join with them), if you are interested please contact Shelly Ford through the club’s Facebook page or email GorgonsCC@aol. com We would like to thank Rob, Karen and the staff at The Britannia Inn for all of their help once again. We would also like to thank all of our sponsors and supporters.
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Email: news@wellsvoice.co.uk Wells Voice November 1/4 page.indd 1
21/10/2019 16:28
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Recipe that makes festival a success With this year’s Wells Festival of Literature having just drawn to a close, Tilly Mortimore explains more about the ingredients that go into staging the event WHAT do you need to start a literary festival? A vision, some like-minded friends, a kitchen table covered with coffee mugs and wine glasses, plus a touch of midsummer madness. Twenty-eight years later, what has Wells got? The largest literary festival in Great Britain run entirely by volunteers which raises over £50,000 in ticket sales alone and annually ploughs around £20,000 into local state schools by bringing them authors, storytellers, poets, drama, books, Coram Beanstalk reading support and much more.
What is the recipe for this feast? Take: One committee of 24 writers, teachers, business people, journalists, artists, poets, lawyers, PR aficionados, media and party people, all kept in check by a fantastically organised treasurer and choreographed by a strong and stable chair who juggles everything; arranges a chair for every event and fronts the things that need fronting. Split them into five teams: the education team; the booking group; the marketeers; the competition creators and the events supremos (who all share progress and problems at monthly full committee meetings). Then add: Sponsors from local businesses, eateries, restaurants, philanthropists
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From left, Wells Festival of Literature chair Richard Manning with three of the four past chairs, and now honorary Friends, Maggie Langdon, Emma Craigie and John Cryer at this year’s festival launch party at Wells & Mendip Museum on October 16 and well-wishers; Friends of the Festival – of all ages and backgrounds who support us, promote us and enjoy special events and discounted tickets; helpful experts – designers, web wizards, printers, accountants, technicians, restaurateurs, Box Office, local libraries, bookshops, particularly Waterstones, local radio and print and online press; a wonderfully comfortable and technically perfect venue at Cedars Hall; an army of volunteers who swing into action when called upon to steward, scatter 9,000 brochures around Wells and far beyond, provide nibbles for parties, put up little posters and large boards blazoning the name of the Festival, and generally offer support where needed. Mix together… and watch the magic start. Each team has its own mission, all of them crucial for a successful Festival. The education team works tirelessly all year liaising with schools to discover where best to direct support. Although the booking group members may have collapsed in darkened rooms for the week following the Festival, they will soon be hard at work again identifying writers and performers for 2020 and making initial advances to publishers.
Once the programme is finalised, it is over to the marketeers, whose job it now is to sell some 30+ events to the residents of Wells, Somerset and beyond and keep the Festival in people’s minds. The first marketing drive is always to encourage entries to the international writing competitions, judged by established writers such as Simon Armitage, following shortlisting by a local team and culminating in a prize giving and published booklet available at the Festival. This year’s competitions attracted 1,171 entries. The work of the multiskilled events team straddles the year and covers all aspects from organising the venue and overseeing all the technical aspects to dealing with parking, health and safety and stewarding… the list goes on and all to create a fantastic festival atmosphere at the heart of Wells So it is simple cooking really. You just need a large number of capable and generous people with a love of literature and a passion to spread it across the generations. The end result? An event which celebrates, supports and cements the community around the glorious city of Wells. The 2019 Festival is now over and work is already starting on 2020.
Town clerk thanked for her service WELLS City Council has announced that Felicity White, the town clerk for many years, has now left her role after being absent for a while through illness. The council said in a statement: “After a period of ill health the town clerk of Wells
City Council, Felicity White, has left her position. “The city council thanks Felicity for her 10 years of service and wishes her all the best in the future.” The council’s responsible financial officer, Steve Luck, will continue as acting town clerk.
Email: sales@wellsvoice.co.uk
wellsvoice
November 2019
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n NEWS
Cafe extends hours to offer evening meals WELLS has a new dinner destination now that Twentyone cafe and kitchen in Wells Market Place has started opening into the evening. Coffee and cakes are still served during the day as usual, but the cafe now shuts its doors at 4.30pm and reopens at 5pm as PJ’s at Twentyone from Wednesday to Sunday. The name comes from new chef Peter Grafton – known as PJ – who has created a dinner menu using seasonal, local ingredients. Before diners arrive, the tables are laid with cutlery and wine glasses, and candles are lit to create a welcoming atmosphere. “It’s a completely different menu and a completely different operation,” said cafe owner Nigel Hancock. “I’ve always wanted to do it, but I’ve wanted to do it properly.”
Nigel Hancock with chef PJ outside Twentyone By opening at 5pm, Nigel hopes to appeal to parents who might want to pop in after school, people just finishing work for the day, or those who want to eat before attending events such as concerts in the Cathedral.
“You can park in the market square, have a meal and a glass of wine, and then be in the Cathedral in two minutes,” said Nigel. “By opening at five we are able to offer it to a family market
as well, so PJ has designed a children’s menu for under 12s.” PJ, who has been a chef for more than 12 years, said that there will be vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options on his menus, which will change every couple of months. He said: “This is an exciting new adventure for me and I’ve really enjoyed creating all the new dishes. “I’m very proud to have my name on the menu and am looking forward to making the evenings here a great success. “Since we opened on October 17, the feedback has been absolutely fantastic and it’s great to see all the bookings in the diary from now right up until Christmas.” It is a busy time for Nigel and his wife Melanie. As well as launching PJ’s at Twentyone, they have also recently taken on Cafe Retreat on Durdham Downs, Bristol.
PJ’s at TWENTYONE in Wells Market Place
Open for dinner Wednesdays to Sundays from 5pm. Last orders 9pm. Children’s menu for Under 12s Fantastic venue for private parties catering for up to 40 people Xmas Menu available from 4th December to 24th December Open New Year’s Eve Tel: 01749 675993 or email: hello@twentyonewells.co.uk for bookings & enquiries Twentyone cafe & kitchen 21 Market Place, Wells BA5 2RF Got News? Call 07906 499655
Email: news@wellsvoice.co.uk
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November 2019
n NEWS IN BRIEF Hotel proposal NEW hotel accommodation could be created above the Fosso Lounge cafe bar in Wells High Street. Loungers Ltd has applied to Mendip District Council for change of use of the upper floors to allow for nine bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms. The application says that the proposed use of the upper floors as hotel accommodation will provide Wells with additional quality visitor facilities, therefore helping to encourage tourism, and will aid the economy of nearby retail units.
Free hot meals THE Elim Connect Centre in Wells will be hosting an extra free community meal per week during school holidays in October and January for families with children who need
with crohns and colitis is being held at the Elim Connect Centre in Wells on Saturday, December 7. It is being organised by the family of Ollie Forster, aged nine, of Wells, who has Crohn’s disease. The quiz will run from 7.30pm-10pm. Tickets are £5 per person for teams of up to six, including a raffle and refreshments. To book, email teamollie09@outlook.com
it. Complimentary hot meals will be served from 12pm-2pm on Thursday, October 31, and Thursday, January 2.
Awards invitation NOMINATIONS for the newly created BA5 Awards must be submitted by noon on Friday, November 1. To nominate someone who you think merits an award for their work in the community in Wells and the surrounding area, send an email explaining why they deserve recognition in up to 100 words to awards@wellsvoice. co.uk. Five winners will be announced at the Wells Civic Society seasonal celebration at the museum on December 11.
Charity quiz night A CHARITY Quiz Night in aid of CICRA: better lives for children
Gardens challenge
Daniels Cafe & Sandwich Bar in Queen Street was one of the Wells businesses that took part in this year’s World’s Biggest Coffee Morning for Macmillan Cancer Support. Pictured by the cake table is Ros Rawlings. Daniels raised £145.
SOMERSET Gardens Trust is inviting entries for its Somerset Gardens Competition 2020, which Wells resident Christopher Bond is helping to organise. There is a £250 top prize in the categories of Individual Owned Gardens and School Gardens. More information at www. somersetgardenstrust.org.uk/ competition/
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n NEWS The Reception Class at St Cuthbert’s C of E Academy Infants and Pre-School
Options for festive lights to be explored WELLS City Council is to explore new options for the Christmas lights display in Wells. A four-strong council team will put up and take down the lights again this year, but finance and open spaces officer and acting town clerk Steve Luck told a meeting of the City Centre & Open Spaces Committee that it was becoming harder to manage. The lights display has expanded, the staff who spend several nights working on the
lights do it unpaid, and the lights are several years old. “There’s only so much we can do,” said Mr Luck. “We’ve done it on a shoestring for so long but we’ve got to look at other options. We’re struggling to get a decent display with the funds we’ve got.” It was decided that Mr Luck and open spaces manager Mark Culliford will come up with some proposals for alternative arrangements. This year’s
From left, Orlando Bloom, Morven Jamieson, Shane Green, Richard Davey and Teresa Mason
Students win lion’s share of funds WELLS Blue School students Orlando Bloom and Morven Jamieson won over the audience with their pitch for funds at the latest SOUP lunch. The pair representing the Blue School Plastic Free team explained that they wanted money for a range of initiatives such as improving recycling facilities at the school, and organising an eco-conference to educate other schools about reducing plastic use. They left with £350, the lion’s
share of the money available from takings on the door, matchfunded on this occasion by Bowleys Garage. Extra tables had to be put out at the Wells Independents event in the Connect Centre on October 5 because so many people wanted to attend. The other charities that each made a four-minute presentation, and received cheques for £118, were Alzheimer’s Society, Promise Works and Stoma Heroes.
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Christmas lights will start to go up on Monday, November 18. Among other issues discussed, the committee agreed with a proposed increase in various cemetery fees to bring them more into line with fees
charged elsewhere in Mendip. Members also decided to invite in God’s Acre – an organisation that supports groups to care for burial grounds – to advise on how biodiversity can be improved at the cemetery.
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Unique way of remembering A UNIQUE light and sound installation for a special day of remembrance is planned at Wells Cathedral on Saturday, November 2. The date is All Souls Day, otherwise known as the Day of the Dead. In the Calling of the Names installation, projections of the names of the deceased submitted by the public will appear and fade on the walls of the Lady Chapel, alongside a specially commissioned recording of local people sharing their personal stories of death and dying. “It is a long-standing tradition on All Souls Day to recall the names of those who have died in the Cathedral. As Wells is at the centre of the Festival of Death and Dying this year, we would like to offer the opportunity for the names of everyone and anyone in the community to be remembered in this beautiful and reverential way,” said Jackie Croft, chief operating officer of the Cathedral. If there is a big response, printed displays of names will be created and on the hour throughout the day names will be read from the pulpit, creating a simple but special atmosphere of reflection and remembrance. “We would like to encourage everyone to put forward names of those they would like to be remembered and ask their friends and family to do the same,” said Jackie, who hopes the Cathedral will host thousands of names in what will be a groundbreaking and inclusive event.
The Festival of Death and Dying organiser Henri Lang at a preview of the Calling of the Names installation at Wells Cathedral “Religious or atheist? It doesn’t matter, we are all touched by death, and finding new ways to share our grief and celebrate life is what the festival is all about,” said festival organiser Henri Lang. Names can be submitted online via the festival website, deathfest.co.uk. There will also be a collecting box for names by the desk at the main entrance to the Cathedral. The installation is a collaboration between
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Wells Cathedral, Andrew Gowland of Reality Studios Inc and the Festival of Death and Dying, being held across Wells, Glastonbury and Shepton Mallet from November 1-3. More than 30 events will explore death and dying to create a death-friendly society. For full programme go to what’s on at deathfest.co.uk. Entry to events is free, with donations requested according to ability to pay.
WELLS PROGRAMME November 1 St Cuthbert’s Church Making a Memorial Altar Cloth, Charlotte MacMillan; 12-1.30pm: Bringing Hope from losing our son to suicide, Don & Lynne Hart; 1.303pm: Art & Our Feelings, Nicola Ley; 3-3.30pm: Horticulture/ Eco-therapy for positive mental health, Deb Millar; 4-5pm: Everybody has a body (even when dead!), Olive Howland-Milne; 5-7pm: Drumming to Remember, Peta Yapp; 7-8pm: Building Resilience with Qigong, Magpie Qigong; 8-9pm: Way of Council, ideas for going forward, and peer-to-peer mentoring set up. November 2 St Cuthbert’s Church All day: Making a Memorial Altar Cloth, Charlotte MacMillan; 10-12pm: The healing power of writing, Emma Craigie; 10-11am: Building Resilience with Qigong, Mark Pogson; 11-2pm: Make a Memory Box with Meaning, Kate Dorsett; 11.30-1pm: Sing Your Heart Out – songs that tend to grief & joy, Maya Love; 12.30-1.30pm: Let’s talk about Suicide, Chukes Maxwell; 2-3.30pm: The Sacred Journey to the Last Breath, Simon Gardiner; 2.30-4pm: What Words Can’t Say, Viv Gordon; 5-6pm: Way of Council, ideas for going forward, and peer-to-peer mentoring set up. Elim Connect Centre 10.30-2.30pm: Death Fair, including offerings from: Nicole Stanfield Caile – shroud wrapping; Matthew Billington – alternative memorials; Bee Blake – Creativity Creates Change; Holly LyonHawk – Ceremonial care of the body; Sue Brayne – The D Word, how to talk about death; Anna Dyson – Ashes to Art; Cradle to the Grave Weavers; Juli Moran and Angela Ward – Natural and DIY Funerals; Mel Scott – Finleys footsteps and baby loss. 3-5pm: A Circle of Questions. An opportunity to ask the questions we dare not ask. To consider together death, dying and beyond. Wells Cathedral 8.30am-7.30pm: Calling of the Names. 5.15pm: Annual service of All Souls.
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n NEWS Life coaching workshops
An Alzheimer’s Society Singing for the Brain session in December last year at Seager Hall in Wells
Singing sessions that lift spirits MONTHLY Singing for the Brain sessions for people in the area living with dementia are being planned at West Mendip Hospital. The Wells and Glastonbury Dementia Action Alliances have joined forces to start the sessions, which have been shown to benefit those with dementia. Glastonbury Festival founder Michael Eavis has pledged £1,000 towards the first year’s expenses. “Music, especially singing,
seems to reach parts of the brain damaged by dementia in ways that language cannot,” said Claire Chettoe of the Wells Dementia Action Alliance. “People with dementia and their carers attend together and find that singing lifts their spirits and helps them connect with others around them. “The sessions help to reduce social isolation and encourage physical exercise and movement.” To find out more, including
Inquiry hears about past offences AN Independent Inquiry into Child Sexual Abuse (IICSA) hearing heard about offences committed by a Wells Cathedral School teacher. The Cathedral School has been contributing to phase one of the child sexual abuse investigation, examining residential schools. The hearing heard that music teacher Julien Bertrand committed sexual offences against two pupils, for which he was jailed in 2007. Helen Bennett, the school’s former safeguarding lead, and Alistair Tighe, the current head master, both spoke at the hearing. The school said in a statement about the inquiry: “The safeguarding of children in our care is our highest priority.
We look forward to receiving any recommendations from the Inquiry to further enhance our safeguarding provision, and that of all residential schools, in the future. “If any former or current pupils, or parents, or others associated with the school wish to contact the school about any historic or current matters related to safeguarding, please either contact the main school reception on 01749 834204, or the school’s designated safeguarding lead (Mr Martin Ashton) on 01749 834222, or the head master (Mr Alastair Tighe) on 01749 834212. Contact is also available via email at either reception@wells.cathedral. school or headmaster@wells. cathedral.school”
how to volunteer to help with the sessions, email clairechettoe@ gmail.com or phone her on 01749 676248. Singing for the Brain sessions are already being provided by The Alzheimer’s Society at Seager Hall in Wells on the second Monday of the month from 2pm-4pm. For more information, contact Alzheimer’s Society support worker Shirley Pays on 01458 251541 or email shirley. pays@alzheimers.org.uk.
FUN workshops for people who want to learn Life Coaching & Leadership Skills will be starting on Wednesday mornings from November 6. They are being run by the Project Factory team that has grown out of Wake Up Wells, and will be held at the Somerset Skills and Learning building on Portway, behind the Connect Centre. “Anyone and everyone is welcome to attend,” said Emma Lefevre of Project Factory. “The workshops will be practical and fun, interactive – and the skills can be used immediately. On a personal level, the skills will particularly serve those people who want to know ‘what next’? Or who want more fulfilment in their lives, who are at a crossroads and need to know which direction to take.” For more information, visit the website: www.projectfactory. uk
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Rewear scheme at clothing store THE Mistral clothing chain, which has a store in Wells High Street, has launched a Rewear, Reuse and Recycle Scheme. Customers can hand in pre-
loved garments to store staff who will add them to a collection bin, and they will receive a 10 per cent off voucher to use the next time they shop at Mistral.
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Nov23-WellsVoiceMagAdvert.qxp_Layout 1 12/09/2019 10:33 Page 1
r o f y e n o m g in is a r e r a We Saturday
Concert on
November 23rd St Thomas Church St Thomas Street, Wells, BA5 2UZ 7:30pm
N O I S S I M D A E FRE
SingOut with the
WELLS
goodafternoon
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Busy month at Wells Library NOVEMBER is a busy month at Wells Library. Events taking place include: n Friday, November 1, 10am-11am, Fraud Scene Investigators. Become a Fraud Investigator with a fun, interactive workshop. For children aged 8- 12 years. You will learn about different types of frauds and scams, how this can affect you and most importantly how you can protect yourself and others from identity theft and fraud. Goody bag to take away.
Book a free place by emailing wlslib@somerset.gov.uk. n Friday, November 8, 11am12.30pm. Join author Andrew Powell-Thomas for a talk on his recent book, as he explores the many places that make Somerset so special, from the natural splendour of moorland, parks and coastline to the man-made treasures of castles, magnificent houses and museums. Book a free place by emailing wlslib@ somerset.gov.uk. n Monday, November 4,
and Monday, November 18, 11.30am-12.15pm, free Tai Chi taster session. Come along and enjoy this gentle form of exercise to improve your strength, posture and balance. No need to book, just come along. n Thursday, November 14, and Thursday, November 28, 10am-10.45pm, Read and Rhyme. Free singing and rhyming activities for children under five. Book a place by emailing wlslib@somerset.gov. uk.
Church concert by Swan Singers LOCAL chamber choir the Swan Singers are returning to St Cuthbert’s Church in Wells for their next concert. The choir, under their director Tricia Rees-Jones, will be performing the 1605 Requiem by Spanish composer Tomás Luis de Victoria on Saturday, November 9, at 7pm. This work was written for the memorial service for Empress Maria, the sister of Philip II of Spain, and is regarded as one of the last great works in the Renaissance polyphonic style. The sections of the Requiem will be interspersed with organ items from the 16th and 17th centuries, played by Tricia Rees-Jones. Tickets cost £10 and are available from St Cuthbert’s Church Office and at the door. Refreshments will be available. For further details, contact the church office on 01749 676906, or office@ stcuthbertswells.co.uk.
Leaflets going out to residents The Wells Good Afternoon Choir in Wells Cathedral
Free choir concert a fundraiser for air ambulance A FREE admission concert at St Thomas’ Church on Saturday, November 23, will be raising money for Dorset & Somerset Air Ambulance. The concert is organised by the popular Wells Good Afternoon Choir led by Grenville Jones with Sheila Ross as accompanist. Grenville started the choir in January 2018 and there are now more than 70 members who meet every Tuesday afternoon at Seager Hall from 2pm-4pm.
The concert in the church on St Thomas Street starts at 7.30pm and will also feature the Bath Welcome Choir, also led by Grenville. The programme will include songs for everyone with chances to join in. There are now ten Good Afternoon Choirs across the region and each choir chooses the local charity that it will support each year. Last year, Wells Good Afternoon Choir raised more than £2,900 for the
Hope for Tomorrow Bumble Chemotherapy Bus and this year they chose the Dorset & Somerset Air Ambulance to benefit from their fundraising. Grenville said: “Come along and join us on Saturday, November 23, for a concert of music for all tastes, supporting a very worthwhile local organisation – see you there.” For further details on Good Afternoon Choirs see www. goodafternoonchoir.org or call 01761 472468.
BURCOTT Road Area Residents’ Association attended the Wells City Council meeting on Thursday, October 24, to request two new community notice boards to be positioned in key locations within the Burcott Road area for use by local residents. Residents in the locality will be receiving a leaflet with more information on the formation of the residents’ association. They are asked to complete and return the questionnaire with their ideas and concerns, and provide organisers with their contact details. Email burcottroadra@ gmail.com or call 07763 749303 for more information, or if the leaflet has not been received.
Appeal for singers to play key role in Carol Service
Trials meeting
ST Cuthbert’s Church is looking for some singers to join its choir for the annual Carol Service. The service is on Sunday, December 22, at 4pm, and consists of readings and carols. Some of the carols are traditional and sung by everyone, and there will be two or three items for the choir to sing on
THE planning application by Pyrocore Ltd to carry out pyrolysis trials on land at Haybridge is expected to be considered by Somerset County Council’s Regulation Committee on Thursday, November 7. The meeting, which is open to the public, will take place in Taunton at 10am (venue to be confirmed).
their own. Always a lovely service, say organisers, it is followed by mulled wine and mince pies. The choir will start practising for the Carol Service on Thursday, November 14, and will rehearse at the church every Thursday from 7.15pm to 8pm. People who would like to join
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are urged to get in touch. Lots of experience is not necessary, just a keenness to give it a go. Choir members describe themselves as a friendly, if somewhat elderly, bunch and not all solemn and holy. To find out more, contact the church office, tel: 01749 676906 or email office@ stcuthbertswells.co.uk
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Doctor will have diners in stitches
Another chance to watch play
in the top 100 NHS Clinical Leaders by the Health Service Journal, and with David Spicer, he has written five series of the medico-political satire Polyoaks for Radio 4, as well as five books including Staying Alive and Sex, Sleep or Scrabble? The venue is the Swan Hotel in Sadler Street, Wells, and the date Saturday, November 9. There will also be a live auction and raffle to boost the funds raised, which will all go to Heads Up’s Memories Workshop which is of great benefit to people living with dementia. “Tickets are £35 per person, but we are only selling tables of eight, not individual places,” said Heads Up fundraising officer Claire Hak, “and tables are selling fast.” To buy them, email Claire at claire@headsupsomerset.org.uk. The dress code for men is lounge suits with guests arriving at 7pm for dinner at 7.30pm.
LOTS of people were there to support Wells Little Theatre in March for the final rehearsal of Mark Wall’s Counting Your Chickens before it was taken to the Somerset Fellowship of Drama Festival. Many of those who were not able to go along have asked if it can be performed again and so, by popular demand and for one night only, it can be seen at Wells Little Theatre on Saturday, November 2, from 7.30pm. As it is a short play, there will be a social in the bar before the start of the performance. Tickets are not being sold but donations will be requested for theatre renovations. People who intend going are asked to email doreen.grant12@btinternet. com or sign the list on the noticeboard in the theatre bar.
By Philip Welch NOT many great doctors are also hilarious comedians. One who certainly qualifies is Dr Phil Hammond who can talk seriously or humorously, and usually both, about any health and lifestyle topic. He has been an NHS doctor for 31 years, a comedian for 29 years, a BBC broadcaster for 28 years and Private Eye’s medical correspondent for 26 years. Now he will be the guest speaker at a fundraising dinner for Heads Up, the mental health charity based at South Horrington. “I’m delighted to be speaking at the Heads Up charity dinner,” said Dr Hammond. “They do fabulous work to improve mental health and well being, and to support those most in need.” He qualified as a doctor in 1987, was a part-time GP for 20 years, spent five years in sexual
Dr Phil Hammond health and currently works in an NHS team helping young people with chronic fatigue. Dr Hammond presented five series of Trust Me, I’m a Doctor on BBC2, and has appeared many times on Have I Got News For You, the News Quiz, the Now Show and Countdown. As a journalist, he broke the story of the Bristol heart scandal in 1992, and gave evidence to the subsequent public inquiry. He has twice been named
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Join our team We look after adults and children at home, and at school and provide residential and nursing care. We are NHS and Local Authority funded with hundreds of our staff working across South Gloucestershire, parts of Bristol and Bath and North East Somerset. We are always on the lookout for great people and this is an opportunity for you to find out what is available, clinical and non-clinical. Flexible working patterns will always be considered (so long as our services can support your requests). Equally, we have a proactive Bank Team. We offer a wide range of benefits and Agenda for Change terms & conditions for some of our roles. Please submit a short supporting statement or CV as your application via recruitment@sirona-cic.org.uk, call us on 0300 124 5444 or take a look at our current vacancies here www.sironacic.org.uk/work-with-us/ You can also find us on Facebook @SironaCIC or on Twitter @SironaJobs We look forward to hearing from you
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Legal guidance with Chubb Bulleid
Parishioners say farewell to Tobie
Benefits because of delay in introduction of ‘tax on grief’ By Lauren Smart
By Jon Jelfs SUNDAY, October 6, was the Rev Tobie Osmond’s last day at St Thomas’ Church, Wells, where he has been vicar for the past eight years. On that day he took his last service, and there followed a celebratory lunch. Tobie is very well liked and respected having grown the church community and improved its facilities. During his tenure he has encouraged a wide range and diversity of expressions of worship including traditional, contemporary and contemplative. He has also supported the provision of regular times of meditation or centering prayer at St Thomas’, complementing those at St Cuthbert’s and the Cathedral. Over the past two years there has been a month-long focus in the autumn on the theme Sacred Earth, drawing attention to the extraordinary earth we are part of and the many issues that we face in relation to climate change and species extinction. An important development this year has been the establishment of the church as a member of the Inclusive Church network which assures
Tobie Osmond at his last service a welcome for every person and does not discriminate on grounds of disability, economic power, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, learning disability, mental health, neurodiversity, or sexuality. St Thomas’ is now an engaging and active church community looking forward to the future but also wishing Tobie well in his new post as Vicar of Taunton St Mary Magdalene and St John the Evangelist in Taunton. There are numerous other activities including a weekly cafe, Rainbow Tots for parents and young children and regular home groups for deeper sharing of life and faith. Details on the website at www.http:// www.stthomaswells.co.uk/
Call for Nativity sets and angels THE Nativity Crib, Angel and Star Festival is returning to St Cuthbert’s Church in Wells this December. Nativity sets from around the world will be on display from Friday, December 6, to Sunday, December 8 – and organisers say that they would welcome sets that are new to them. Do you have a much-loved set? It may be home-made, from somewhere exotic or a family favourite. Each set has a story to tell and organisers would love people to share it with them. Contact the Parish Office on 01749 676906 or email office@ stcuthbertswells.co.uk if you would like to take part. They would also love more angels to join their heavenly host, and say that they will be
A previous Nativity scene back in good time to adorn their usual home. During the festival, the church sparkles with stars and rings with music, bells and song. There will be mulled wine and seasonal refreshments throughout, and children can dress up for that perfect Christmas photograph for Grandma.
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IN April this year a significant increase in probate fees labelled “a tax on grief” was due to take effect, providing it was approved by Parliament. Probate is a court order that allows the administration of a deceased’s estate. The administration involves organising the deceased’s money, assets and possessions and distributing them as inheritance after paying any taxes or liabilities. If the deceased has left a Will it will name the person who they have chosen to administer their estate as an executor. The executor will apply for a Grant of Probate. If someone dies without a Will (intestate) the next of kin can apply to administer the estate as an administrator. They will apply for a Grant of Letters of Administration. Both orders are generally referred to as Probate in day-to-day administration. The fees increase would have been carried out under the Non-Contentious Probate (Fees) Order 2018 and had been scheduled for a vote in the House of Commons since February. The proposal was that the fees, which are currently £155 for solicitors or £215 for individuals, were to be changed to a new tiered structure with the largest estates, those over £2 million, paying £6,000 to obtain a grant of representation. The draft order also proposed an increase to the threshold
for which no application fee is required from £5,000 to £50,000. However it has been reported by the Law Society that due to the prorogation of the 2017-19 Parliamentary session (that is, the suspension of Parliament) the vote has now lapsed. Therefore, if the Government want to proceed with the fee increase, ministers will need to reintroduce a vote in the next Parliamentary session. There are benefits because of the delay, and not just because the increases in probate fees may now take effect much later. The delay will hopefully reduce the strain on the Probate Registry caused in part by the threat of the fee increases. Whereas a Grant of
‘The Law Society have been campaigning against the fee increase’ Representation could previously be obtained, from submission of the application to completion, in around 10 working days the latest timescales are between six-eight weeks. A significant increase. The Law Society have been campaigning against the fee increase and said: “Should the order be reintroduced, we will continue to campaign against its introduction. This is a tax on grief.” n Lauren Smart is a Private Client Executive with Chubb Bulleid Solicitors, 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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‘A time to remember those you have lost’ IN a quiet corner of Wells Cathedral can be found the Marie Curie Book of Remembrance, a special book with more than 600 memoriams and dedications to loved ones of the Wells community. The annual remembrance service and presentation of the book is taking place in Wells Cathedral on Sunday, November 17, from 3pm to 4pm. Open to all, the service is a chance for reflection and remembrance. The service includes songs from the Cathedral choir, a sermon that reflects the work of Marie Curie in the community and a reading by a Marie Curie nurse, followed by complimentary tea, coffee and mince pies. Entries to the book are currently managed by Marie Curie community fundraiser for Somerset, Riona Houghton.
She said: “Anyone is welcome to add a remembrance to the book at any time, which can then be visited throughout the year. We welcome a small donation when making the dedication, to help with the upkeep of the book and to support our nursing service in Somerset. “It’s a wonderful service in a very special place. It is a time for you to remember those you have lost. Being with people from the community who are there for the same reason is a great comfort.” Collection donations from the service are split between Marie Curie and Macmillan Cancer Support. Marie Curie provides free care and support to people living with any terminal illness. To add a remembrance, contact Riona Houghton 0117 942 0429 or Riona.houghton@ mariecurie.org.uk
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‘Wonderfully varied’ music night THE English Chamber Orchestra will join Wells Cathedral Oratorio Society under new conductor Jeremy Cole for a concert of choral and instrumental music on Saturday, November 16. The choir will sing one of John Rutter’s most celebratory works, Magnificat, and Morten Lauridsen’s poignant Lux Aeterna (Eternal Light). ECO, one of the world’s leading chamber orchestras, will accompany the choir and also perform Arvo Pärt’s Cantus in Memoriam Benjamin Brittan. The soprano soloist is Elizabeth Atherton. Conductor Jeremy Cole is currently Acting Organist and Master of the Choristers at Wells Cathedral, having been Assistant Organist since 2017. Of his new role with the choir he said: “I am delighted to be taking on the role of Musical Director of the Wells Cathedral Oratorio Society for the 2019-20 season. “For this concert we are offering a wonderfully varied
Musical Director Jeremy Cole programme. Arvo Pärt’s sublime and moving Cantus in Memoriam Benjamin Brittan is one of my very favourite pieces, Lauridsen’s Lux Aeterna contains some beautifully shimmering choral textures, and Rutter’s Magnificat is festive and joyful.’’ Tickets priced £14-£30 are available online at www.wcos. org.uk, by phone on 01749 834483 or at the Wells Cathedral Shop (01749 672773).
Market for local Etsy sellers LOCAL designer-makers will be selling handmade gifts at the Somerset-Etsy Made Local market at CentreSpace in Wells on Saturday, November 30. It is part of a national oneday event that will see 54 cities from coast to coast celebrating the makers, designers and collectors that make up the creative community selling on Etsy.com, the online marketplace for handmade and vintage goods, and encouraging people to look locally for this year’s Christmas gifting. About 30 local Etsy sellers will be selling at the SomersetEtsy Made Local market, with products ranging from cards and decorations to jewellery and luxury knitted goods. As well as providing an opportunity to find unique and affordable gifts in the lead up to Christmas, the event will also include live music to get people into the festive spirit. Joanne Hawker, SomersetEtsy team captain, said: “Join us for this fun-packed Christmas experience. It’s a great opportunity to meet the designer-makers in your
Etsy sellers will be at CentreSpace community and makes giftgiving that bit more unique and special. This is our second year in Wells, and with over a thousand people through the doors last year, we are gearing up for another amazing day with even more visitors this time. “We’re really lucky to have such a range of talented makers in the Somerset team, so keep your eye on our social media feeds to catch a sneak peak of some of the exclusive items you’ll find on the day.” CentreSpace is at 9a Market Street, and the event will run from 10am-4pm.
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n NEWS
Vineyard’s double joy at food festival LOCAL company Fenny Castle Vineyard was a double awardwinner at this year’s Wells Food Festival. James Cummings, winemaker at the vineyard at Worth, near Wells, said: “We were delighted to receive the award for the Truespeed Best Alcoholic Stall for the second year running, and extremely proud to have been selected as the Cornish Mutual Best in Show.” It was the passion of owners James and Gill for their vineyard, and the provenance of the resulting English sparkling and still wine, and craft cider, that impressed the panel of judges. Jack Webster from Cornish Mutual said: “Local rural businesses are our priority, so it was an honour to be involved in the festival which champions artisan producers. When it came to selecting the Best in Show, we felt that Fenny Castle Vineyard simply ticked all the boxes: an excellent local business that believes in, and crafts, the highest quality product.” Thousands of visitors came from far and wide to taste their way around the region’s finest food and drink. “A slightly wet start to the day didn’t dampen the spirit of our visitors,” said festival director, Jon Abbott. “It was a resounding success. Lots of our food stalls completely sold out which is always the sign of a great festival.” The new food photography competition also proved a hit. There were almost 100 entries
from as far afield as Turkey. Each photograph was judged by celebrated food and lifestyle photographer Neil White and the successful entries were exhibited in the Town Hall on the day. The overall winner was
Michelle Cowbourne from Glastonbury with Sugar Cane Man, a photograph she took in Goa. “I’m thrilled”, she said on receiving the award for Best Picture. “I only began photography 18 months ago so this is really exciting.” Neil said: “The standard of entries was really high but I thought the composition of this photograph was exceptional, and technically brilliant. It isn’t always about the food: it can be about the people involved as well.” Jon said: “The photography competition was a great addition to the festival. “We’ll have a bit of a breather before we start planning in earnest for next year’s Wells Food Festival. If anyone would like to get involved, we’d be delighted to hear from you.” For further information, visit www.wellsfoodfestival.co.uk
The team at Fenny Castle Vineyard receiving the Best in Show Award from David Osborne and Jack Webster from the sponsor, Cornish Mutual, top; as usual, this year’s event attracted big crowds
WELLS FOOD FESTIVAL 2019 AWARD WINNERS Cornish Mutual Award for Best in Show: Fenny Castle Vineyard; Truespeed Award for Best Alcoholic Drink Stall: Fenny Castle Vineyard; Mayor of Wells Award for Best Snacks & Savouries Stall: Somerset Smokehouse; Lodestone Property Award for Best Cook’s West Country Street Food Stall: Bioaqua; Mogers Drewett Award for Best Cheese Stall: Homewood Cheese; Bovis Home Award for Best Cook’s Ingredients Stall: Bath Harvest; Old Mill Award for Best Preserves Stall: Bumblee’s Preserves & The Chillees; Charlie
Bigham’s Award for Best World Street Food Stall: Murray Mays; Chubb Bulleid Award for Best Non-Alcoholic Drink Stall: Leafy Tea Company; NFU Mutual Award for Best West Country Street Food Stall: Bioaqua; David Wilson Homes Award for Best Bread, Cakes & Desserts Stall: Wild Flour Cake Company; Cognique Award for Best Start-Up Business: Nook; Unwins Funeral Award for Best Confectionary Stall: Grown Up Marshmallows; Riverford Award for Best Free-From Stall: Harth Truffles; Crest Nicholson Award for Best Non-Food Stall: B’Bees.
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November 2019
n NEWS
Artists create landmark cow
Map shows how paths could join
TWO artists from Wells have helped create a giant 70m-long cow made from cow poo on a hillside near Blagdon, to raise awareness about organic farming. Heather Jane Wallace and Rebecca Barnard, directors of Heritage Courtyard Gallery and Studios in Wells, gathered 10 artists together to work on the cow. It was painted in a field owned by the organic dairy company Yeo Valley to coincide with the company’s 25th birthday as well as Organic September – a month dedicated to raising awareness of the benefits of organic farming. Sarah Mead from Yeo Valley said: “We made it using the cow muck from the farm to get a message across – that organic farming works with, and not against, the natural environment. “Organic farming can help tackle climate change because healthy soil has the ability to store the excessive carbon from the atmosphere. “The giant cow won’t be here for long. Nature will have the last laugh, as ever.” It took a week to complete the huge artwork, which used 3,000 buckets of cow poo. Heather said: “Sarah Mead came to the gallery with the idea and we loved it. I’m a Somerset girl. My brother, nephew and grandfather are farmers. I really understand the message. When I grew up, farming was naturally organic. “I remember when farmers were encouraged to spray their crops after the war to produce
Bob Murrell reports on the latest moves to link up sections of the Strawberry Line
Heather Jane Wallace and Rebecca Barnard, top, and their giant cow more and more food at lower prices. The result of this was the decline and disappearance of the countryside and wildlife. “My art now is hugely influenced by seeing this when I was a child. So that’s a big part of the reason why we got involved – it really spoke to me personally when Yeo Valley came up with the idea.”
At 70 metres wide and 50 metres high, the giant cow art compares to other well-known West Country landscape murals like the Cerne Abbas Giant in Dorset (55 metres high) and the Westbury White Horse in Wiltshire (55 metres high and 52 metres wide). Heather said: “It was very exhausting carry the poo up the steep hill. We used great big household brooms to paint it into the grass. It was a challenge getting the scale right – from a distance we quickly realised that you can only make out great big shapes and not details like eye lashes.” Work on the cow took place while Heather and Rebecca also ran the acclaimed contemporary art exhibition, Re-Formation, both at The Bishop’s Palace and at Heritage Courtyard Gallery. They are now preparing for their next exhibition and range of workshops at the gallery.
Provision of funds makes roof repairs possible ROOF repairs and upgrades are being carried out at the Connect Centre on Portway, Wells, thanks to funding received from Viridor Credits. The building’s roof had become increasingly fragile and weather worn, and the Centre was combating leaks and damp which was impacting on its capacity to offer the building as place for community use. Sharon Edmonds, Connect Centre co-ordinator, said: “We are so excited that our roof
is now being repaired thanks to the funding received from Viridor Credits. We will be able to redecorate the interior of the Centre to make it more welcoming and reflect our wish to offer a quality community space. “We welcome so many people through our front doors every week and many of our community projects are based here at the Centre so it’s essential that it’s fit for purpose. “Thanks to the roof repairs
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we will also be able to have solar panels installed which will not only help with the running costs of the Centre but also dramatically reduce our environmental impact, something we are really passionate about.” Viridor Credits Environmental Company is an environmental body and independent charity that funds certain projects within 10 miles of an active Viridor landfill site or Energy Recovery Facility.
PROPOSALS are underway to revive plans for a Strawberry Line (SL) shared-use path across the centre of Wells connecting the Dulcote path and Wells Leisure Centre. A new Accessible Wells map has been produced by the Strawberry Line East (SLE), with the support of the new administration of Mendip District Council and Wells City Council, to show how a safe network of paths could connect residents to key locations of Wells and villages, and with the SL through route another missing link is added for an 85-mile Somerset Cycle that will join Bath, Bristol, Yatton, Cheddar, Wells, Shepton Mallet and Radstock. It also aims to help planners and developers recognise where shared-use paths should be considered for future sites. Until now there has been little forward planning for such paths, and functional links have failed to be included in recent developments, despite SLE lobbying. The SLE, however, is pleased that after lobbying the developers and planners of the 220 new houses on the Haybridge site, they have agreed to include a shared-use path from the leisure centre to the A371 Cheddar road linking it to the new rugby ground, Haybridge residents, caravan site and buses. Since SLE volunteers have taken on the maintenance of the Dulcote path, removing long stretches of overgrown vegetation and exposing an ancient cattle pound, the path is now widely used and enjoyed by many people. The ambition now is to extend the path so it can be used by workers at the new Charlie Bigham’s food factory in Dulcote quarry. Hopefully, everyone is now waking up to the reality of climate emergency, and more serious efforts should be made to get people out of cars and promote cycling and walking. To view the Accessible Wells map, go to: www. thestrawberryline.org.uk/ accessiblewells
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Focus on health with Bluebird Care
Take care role and make a difference By Jenny Atkins
In heavy rain and high winds, hardy pupils and staff from Wells Cathedral School, and many local families, took part in the annual Save the Children fundraising walk. More than 300 walkers completed a five-mile walk for younger pupils or a ten-mile walk for senior school pupils. The event took place in the centenary year of Save the Children, during which the school aims to raise £5,000 for some of the charity’s most urgent appeals.
School seeking new co-opted governors ST Cuthbert’s Junior School is looking for new co-opted governors to join its governing body. The governors come from a range of different backgrounds, skills and experience, but all share a common interest of wanting the best possible education for the children in the school, at Keward Avenue, Wells The governing board would like to hear from anyone who is interested in children’s education and the performance of the school, and has spare time and the energy for the role. These volunteer positions are open to parents/guardians or other people from the community. Co-opted governors are not elected by a parent election but are instead appointed directly by the governing body. The role of the governing
body includes helping to set and review the school’s strategic direction and agreeing targets for improvement, holding the headteacher and school leaders to account for the educational performance of the school and its pupils, and overseeing the financial performance of the school and making sure public money is well spent. Those interested should contact the school office for an application form. To discuss any aspects of the role before submitting an application, speak to Helen Singleton, clerk to the governors, on 01749 678066. Further information for prospective governors is also available on the National Governance Association website at https://www.nga.org.uk/ Governance-Recruitment/Be-aschool-governor-or-trustee.aspx
THE act of caring is powerful. But caring has many meanings and can be seen in many different forms. Caring for your loved ones is based on a different relationship to caring as part of a professional role for someone who is not part of your family. If you give unpaid support to a relative, partner or friend who is ill, frail, disabled or has mental health or substance misuse problems, you are a carer as well as those who provide care professionally. Being a caregiver is one of the most important and personally rewarding roles a person can do in their lifetime. Caring provides benefit for others, gives you a feeling of being needed, provides us with a purpose and is fulfilling for our relationships. Care is not easy and presents challenges that can be stressful, but working through these tough times can be rewarding. Don’t forget there is support out there to reach for when needed. You are not alone. Having a responsibility in a care setting or within the community as a professional carer or as a family member
holds quite a responsibility. It can be difficult to fully gain understanding about what you are accountable for. Training and commitment within the health and care sector will support you gaining this understanding and also ensure you are working within the law which holds you accountable when caring for others. The pressure of caring for someone can feel enormous but once you have accepted that responsibility, the feeling becomes an honour. Quite often alone, you are supporting another person, someone depending on you. We professional carers may not know what our day will bring but we are prepared to walk in ready to support and be held accountable. Having responsibility can bring pride. You can be proud of the responsibilities you carry. If you want to make a difference, somewhere in your community there’s a job in the care profession that you can do to help others. You don’t need to have previous experience, as you will be supported. So why not reach out today and see what you can do? n Jenny Atkins is Care Manager of Bluebird Care (Mendip), email CMMendip@bluebirdcare. co.uk, phone 01749 372197 or 01458 570015.
Invitation to enter competitions WELLS residents and school students are being invited to enter poetry and photography competitions being organised as part of the next Shepton Mallet Snowdrop Festival. Last year’s poetry
competition attracted nearly 700 entries – including 75 from Wells Cathedral School. More details at www. sheptonsnowdropfestival.org. uk. The festival will take place on February 15 and 16, 2020.
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Centenary poppies put to good uses FOLLOWING a Remembrance project last year in which knitted poppies were displayed in Wells Cathedral Chapter House, a second project has been undertaken this year to recycle the poppies into various useful and attractive items. The poppies were made by ladies who lived in and around Wells to commemorate 100 years since the Great War. It was proposed that they could be reused this year in another way, and so a ‘Poppy Blanket’, wreaths and cushions have been made by the ladies in Chilcompton and Wells Knit & Natter group. Some wreaths and cushions are on display in the Basil Powell shoe shop in Wells and can be purchased from the Cathedral Shop.
The Poppy Blanket, left, and wreaths and cushions, above, that have been created from last year’s commemorative poppies After contacting Derek Cooper of Wells Royal British Legion it was suggested that the single-size bed ‘Poppy Blanket’ would be a very fitting gift to Somerset Legion House, Westonsuper-Mare, which the group feel will be a very suitable home for all their efforts.
n LETTERS Can you spare time to help with Plan? MANY readers will recall consultations back in 2015/16 based on the Wells Neighbourhood Plan. A copy of the draft Plan can be viewed by going to the home page of the Wells City Council website and clicking on “Draft Wells Neighbourhood Plan”. Regrettably, for a variety of reasons, the process of making the Plan “stalled” at the end of 2016 and no further work was carried out on it. The purpose of the Wells Neighbourhood Plan is to link with the Mendip Local Plan which covers the whole area of Mendip and its five towns. The WNP is able to go into more detail than the Local Plan and to be more responsive to the needs of the people of Wells. The Plan, as previously drawn up, had sections on Heritage, Housing, Travel, Retail, Tourism and the Natural Environment. Wells City Council have decided to resurrect the WNP and to consult the people of Wells again as to the future of the city. The process should, hopefully, be completed by the end of 2020. Once the Plan is completed, it will be a “material consideration”, in plain words
Two chances of striking gold THE Bishop’s Palace has been shortlisted in two categories at the Bristol, Bath and Somerset Tourism Awards. The Palace has been chosen in the Large Visitor Attraction of the Year category, alongside the Roman Baths and Noah’s Ark Zoo Farm, and The Bishop’s Table café has also made the final shortlist in the Café and Tearoom of the year category. The Palace will be awarded either a gold, silver or bronze award in each category at this year’s ceremony, which takes place at the Bristol Marriott Hotel on November 21. Chief executive of the Palace Trust, Rosie Martin, said: “We are honoured to have been chosen as a finalist alongside such prestigious attractions.”
Email news@wellsvoice.co.uk – a document which has to be taken into account by not only planning applicants/developers but also Mendip District Council, the body which determines such applications. The city council is now looking for people in Wells who have not only enthusiasm for the Plan but also some experience of the planning system or public consultation and some spare time. All those who are interested in becoming involved in this way in the future of Wells are asked to send an email to me, Cllr Adrian I’Anson, at a.ianson@ wcc.wells.gov.uk or phone 01749 689231. Adrian I’Anson
Collection should be out in the open THE recent Phillips Portraits exhibition at the Wells and Mendip Museum is only a part of a major collection of images of people and landmarks in the area of Wells, Glastonbury, Street, Shepton Mallet and the neighbouring villages, where many families still reside, taken by Bert Phillips in the 1890s onwards. The huge collection donated to the museum needs to be
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more in the public domain than being stuck on the shelves in the archives. This really is a part of the people, who are equally the cultural custodians of Wells and the area. It is through stalwarts like Clare Blackmore, who are endeavouring to make this important collection a major resource of the museum and not just another hidden artefact. Clare, well known for her history and heritage of Wells, is surely a nomination for the BA5 Awards and a worthy recipient for all her hard work. Richard Green Wells
Display of portraits was extraordinary YOUNG men and women have dreams; ‘olde’ men and women have memories. This octogenarian bears witness to those ‘unsung’ volunteers across Mendip communities who attest to our past. The Phillips Portraits a history of our predecessors of this medieval city and surrounding villages over the centuries consequent on the remarkable early black and white photographer Bert Phillips,
deposed in the custodianship of the museum. Clare Blackmore and cosponsors Wells Civic Society and The Swan Hotel are to be congratulated on an extraordinary display. I exhort every school across the Bath & Wells Diocese to introduce future generations to those who have gone before and inculcate the ‘mindset’ of yesteryear; indeed, an opportunity to seize to ‘peripatetically’ exhibit across the diocese; many a parish church an ideal venue. We octogenarians still have a contribution to make to society, pace the ‘amateur’ par excellence, my former colleague, Alan Cotton, who has transposed the ‘glass’ negatives to print. The redoubtable Clare, who has over many years been our custodian of the Mid Somerset Newspapers archive, would like to introduce a modest sponsorship of those succeeding families to further embellish the history of our predecessors. This has been an excellent follow up to the second annual Southover initiative; scholarship alive and well across the city. Watch this space, St Thomas Street next. Graham E Livings Upper Milton Wells
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n NEWS
Airline leads way in approving invention EASYJET has become the first airline to approve the use of a product designed by former Wells Blue School student Josh Wintersgill to help wheelchairusers get on and off aircraft more easily. easyTravelseat is an in-situ transfer sling and seat designed to help wheelchair users transfer safely and comfortably into and out of aircraft seats and enhance overall passenger experience for wheelchair users. Josh, who was diagnosed with a Spinal Muscular Atrophy at 18 months old, designed the innovative product based on his own experiences as an airline passenger. It won him the UK Disabled Entrepreneurs 2018 Award, run in partnership between easyJet founder Sir Stelios HajiIoannou’s Stelios Philanthropic Foundation and the Leonard Cheshire charity. Following the win, the company became easyTravelseat, part of easyGroup. Founder and CEO of easyTravelseat, Josh said: “We are delighted that easyJet supports the benefits easyTravelseat can have on reducing the current undignified and uncomfortable processes that can sometimes be faced by wheelchair passengers when boarding and disembarking aircraft, whilst making the
easyTravelseat inventor Josh Wintersgill special assistance processes for air travel even more efficient.” Celine McGuigan, accessibility and assistance manager for easyJet, said: “We are very pleased to be working with easyTravelseat to continue improving passenger experience for wheelchair users. “We will fly around 100 million passengers this year and of those over 659,000 required and were with provided with assistance during their travels – a record number for the airline. “We are really focussed on ensuring that travel is accessible for all.” Josh grew up in Wells, attending St Cuthbert’s and Wells Central schools as well as the Blue.
Exhibition by up-and-coming artist ANDELLI Art will be hosting a solo exhibition of the Wells Art Contemporary Next Generation prize winner, Minyoung Choi, from November 6-20. Ellie Jones, owner of the gallery at Upper Breach, South Horrington, said: “This is a particularly exciting show for us to present. Minyoung was our pick as winner because we were drawn to the magical, surreal qualities of her work. “Over the past year, since her WAC win, she has developed a body of work that has really impressed us. I hesitate to use the term ‘on-trend’ but her dreamlike and contemplative aesthetic – reminiscent of artists such as Peter Doig or Alex Katz – resonates strongly in the art market right now, and Minyoung is, in our opinion, a powerful painter and definitely one to watch.” Minyoung Choi’s recent paintings show a mind attracted to its surroundings, in which ordinary, everyday, objects and
Minyoung Choi’s Girl with Cat daily scenes transform into more surreal experiences. Other works reveal obviously imagined fairytale-like situations. The show at Andelli Art will be open Tuesday-Saturday, 10am-5pm. The private view will be on Saturday, November 9, from 6.30pm–8.30pm.
n ON THE BEAT Traffic incidents involving animals News from the local policing team with PCSO Nikki Housley NOW the nights are drawing in we need to be vigilant with animals on our roads. If you hit a dog, horse, cow, pig, goat, sheep or donkey (or a mule) then you must report that to us, whether the animal is killed or not. If you hit a wild animal accidentally and you can’t take it to a vet immediately or safely,
you need to contact us on 101, as allowing a wild animal to suffer is an offence. Hitting a wild animal deliberately is an offence under the Wild Mammals (Protection) Act. If you hit and kill a wild animal, you must leave it safely by the roadside and notify the local council so they can remove the remains. Some wild animals are protected and it is an offence to possess one, dead or alive. If you come across animals loose on the road and there’s a danger to traffic, call 999.
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MINYOUNG CHOI 6–20 November Open Tue–Sat | 10–5
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November 2019
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Wells in Bloom award-winners with their certificates and trophies after the presentations in Wells Town Hall on October 4
Awards handed out to Bloom winners TROPHIES and certificates were handed out to Wells in Bloom award-winners at a presentation evening on October 4. More than 100 people attended the ceremony in Wells Town Hall’s Ballroom. Wells in Bloom organiser John Beauchamp said: “It’s good to see so many of you on such a wet night and it’s nice to welcome some new gardeners this year. “Every year presents its own problems to gardeners and we’re so grateful to you for putting in so much effort.” Judges were full of praise for the standard of entries in this year’s competition – and thought
it was so high that every entrant received a prize. Tony and Maureen Bishop were double Gold Cup winners for their front and back gardens, as was The Britannia Inn for its floral display at the front, and its courtyard. The Communities award was reinstated this year and was won by Bubwith Almshouses. Schools and pre-schools were praised for their “absolutely amazing” entries, and for instilling in children an enthusiasm for gardening. Deputy mayor Councillor Philip Welch made the presentations, which included awards for allotment-holders.
WELLS IN BLOOM RESULTS n Primary school: 2= Priddy Primary, St Cuthbert’s Infants; 1 Croscombe Primary. n Pre-school: 3 Rockers & Rollers; 2 St Cuthbert’s Preschool; 1 Stepping Stones Playgroup. n David Naysmith Award: Chewton Mendip Primary. n Private house front gardens: Silver: Madge Feltham, Adrian Guise; Silver Gilt: Pippa James, Emma Connor; Gold: Rex Steer; Gold Cup: Tony and Maureen Bishop. n Private house back gardens: Silver: Rex Steer, Pippa James, John and Peta Watson; Silver Gilt: Madge Feltham, Adrian Guise; New Wells in Bloom chair Pamela Crummay thanked the volunteers behind the event, and said she loves the way Wells looks every year as a result of the
Gold: Pauline Robbins; Gold Cup: Tony and Maureen Bishop. n Patio garden: Silver: Graham Talbot; Silver Gilt: Alan and Sheila Linegar; Gold Cup: Colin Westley. n Front of hotels and public houses: Silver: Sun Inn, The Crown at Wells; Silver Gilt: The Globe; Gold Cup: The Britannia Inn. n Courtyards of hotels and public houses: Silver: The Sun Inn, The Crown at Wells; Silver Gilt: The Globe; Gold Cup: The Britannia Inn. n Communities: Silver: Carlton Court; Silver Gilt: Judges Lodgings (New Street); Gold Cup: Bubwith Almshouses. efforts that people make. “The work that is put in is superb, thank you to all of you. It does make Wells such a special place,” she said.
At the Heart of England’s Smallest City City of Wells Town Hall Various rooms to hire for: Conferences, Seminars Fairs, Shows, Exhibitions, Marriages, Receptions, all types of Meetings and Local Group Classes Very reasonable rates
For Prices and Bookings contact the Town Hall Manager- Tel: 01749 673091. e-mail: thm@wells.gov.uk Website: www.wells.gov.uk
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School and pre-school winners with Councillor Philip Welch
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n FROM THE TOWN HALL
Local council responsibilities explained
THREE local authorities have power over Wells – the city council, Mendip and Somerset County Council. But there is confusion over who is responsible for what. So I have drawn up this list of the services each council provides. I hope it is helpful. Somerset County Council l Education l Transport, including pavements l Planning, mainly related to minerals and waste l Fire and public safety l Social care l Libraries l Waste management l Trading standards The county council’s website is somerset.gov.uk and phone number 0300 123 2224. Mendip District Council l Rubbish collection l Recycling l Litter and dog bins l Street care and cleaning l Car parks and road closures l Running markets (eg the Wednesday and Saturday ones in Wells) l Prosecutions for fly-tipping and abandoned vehicles l Registering births, deaths and marriages l Issuing Temporary Event Notices (eg for the Wells Food Festival) l Hiring Mendip-controlled
facilities (eg the Bishop’s Barn in Wells) l Council Tax collections l Council housing and Housing Benefit l Homelessness prevention l Planning policy, planning applications and building control l Affordable housing and selfbuild guidance l Guidance on trees, hedges and woodlands l Planning enforcement l Heritage and conservation guidance l Business support l Employment and skills support l Business Rates collection l Regulating food hygiene in restaurants and takeaways l Pollution, noise and nuisance l Dog Service l Flooding advice l Contaminated land advice l Issuing business licences l Safeguarding l Somerset volunteering l Health and wellbeing l Organising local and national elections l Mendip Print and Design Services Mendip’s website is mendip. gov.uk and phone number 0300 303 8588. Wells City Council l The Town Hall accommodates the city council offices and meeting chamber, the Citizens Advice Bureau, Mendip District Council Information Point,
Bluebird Care and the Coroner’s Court l The Town Hall is a venue for markets, meetings, concerts, conferences, weddings and many other events, as well as regular classes, clubs and other community groups l Management of Wells Cemetery l Public toilets in the city l Allotments at Burcott Road, Barnes Close and in the grounds of The Bishop’s Palace l Partnership working with a wide range of councils and organisations on issues affecting the life of the city, its residents and visitors l A strong voice in the scrutiny of all planning and licensing applications affecting the city (Mendip makes the decisions) l Involvement in city centre management including CCTV and alcohol restricted zones. l Oversight of the Wells In Bloom programme
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Rewards of having an allotment THE photo, right, shows Ian Williams whose allotment at The Bishop’s Palace won a Gold Award in the 2019 Wells in Bloom competition. “The benefits of having an allotment include fresh air, exercise and growing your own produce which tastes so much better than what you buy in supermarkets,” said Ian. The city council lets 58 allotments – 32 behind The Bishop’s Palace, 16 at Burcott Road and ten at Barnes Close. Ian spoke highly of Mark Culliford, who is responsible for the allotments in Wells as part of his role as the city council’s cemetery and open spaces manager.
l Management of the two funfairs held in the Market Place in May and November each year l Management of the Wells skateboard park l Grants and financial support to local clubs and organisations l Control of the water running down the south side of the High Street (that on the north side comes direct from The Bishop’s Palace) l Records of the city going back to the 12th century and an archivist to look after and interpret them The names of the Wells city councillors and contact details are on the website wells.gov.uk. The Town Hall’s phone number is 01749 673091. Email me if you have any thoughts or queries on the above at p.welch@wcc.wells.gov.uk (the address was misprinted in last month’s Voice). Wells city councillor Philip Welch
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Plant Hire no job too big or small, our customers we value them all... “Allotments have become much more popular, partly because gardens are smaller now and not everyone has one,” said Mark. “We now have more than 60 people on the waiting list for the three sites.”
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n COMMERCIAL SENSE
November 2019
With Jane Bowe of Probusiness accountants
It’s never too early to file your Tax Return
WHILST minding my own business by the photocopier the other day (actually, I was tickling the tummy of Archie, the office dog), I was interrupted by a colleague who asked in, I might add, a somewhat desperate tone, that we remind our clients of the rapid approach of the Tax Return deadline of January 31st. I thought it might also be helpful to send a reminder, to one and all, that if you need to fill in a Return, and you haven’t already sent your information to your accountant or started to look at your own documents, please do so now. It’s absolutely understandable that when Carnival and then Christmas is approaching, we all have better things to think about, but after that, we are already in January, and then there is often a major rush to get to the finishing line before the 31st. It would be great if we could encourage people to be earlier
Don’t catch a cold by being late with your Tax Return – but do encourage staff to stay away from work if they are poorly with their paperwork, so that all accountants could give more time and close attention to each set of details. Remember, it doesn’t matter how early you complete your Tax Return, you still won’t have to pay a penny until the deadline of 31st January, and you may benefit
from knowing well in advance how much you need to put aside to pay the dear old HMRC. Now I’ve got that off my chest, I want to ask business people to consider the winter bouts of coughs, colds and Norovirus. Delightful! Nonetheless important. Each year, I send an internal email to staff encouraging them to stay away from the office if they have any or (Heaven forbid) all of the above. In case of the winter vomiting bug, as Norovirus is otherwise known, we follow the guidelines set by the NHS, which is that no-one should return to work until 48 hours have passed since vomiting ceased. This is my opportunity to thank our team for following these guidelines, because occasionally, we may have a client or member of staff who has, for some reason or another, a compromised immune system. Any virus like this could result in complications.
If you are a small business owner, you may now be thinking that you couldn’t possibly afford to take time out like this, but, if you have just two or three members of staff, consider the possibility that one person passes it to all the others, either by breath or by touch, because we now know that colds and flu are easily passed by hands on door handles, banister rails and the like. That means that your one member of staff being absent for, say, three days, turns into three members of staff taking nine days off between them (I have my 3x table nailed!). Now it starts to make financial sense. Anyway, let’s hope that everyone actually has a really healthy and happy winter, enjoying all the wonderful events Wells has on offer. Perhaps we shall see you at the Festival of Literature or the Food Festival which we are proud sponsors of? We look forward to it.
Dont Forget...Deadline to file your UK self-assessment tax return for 2018/19 is 31st Jan 2020
A healthy business isn't just about a strong bottom line... We encourage all businesses to stay on top of their financial affairs (the January 31st tax deadline is nearly upon us) but we also encourage a healthy workplace, so if you are feeling a little under the weather, remember to take good care of yourself this winter.
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n NEWS
Tina Blackwill with Wells’s Got Talent participants celebrating an enjoyable evening
Picture: Caroline Welch
Event shows Wells has bags of talent A LARGE crowd enjoyed a funfilled evening of entertainment at Wells’s Got Talent in the Town Hall Ballroom on September 28. The 20 acts that took to the stage to showcase their skills ranged from singers, dancers and musicians to comedians and super flexible gymnasts. The event was run and managed by Tina Blackwill, and was a fundraiser for St Margaret’s Hospice. The acts were judged by five well-known local personalities – BBC Radio Bristol’s Emma Britton, who is also a patron for St Margaret’s Hospice; former
Wells mayor Celia Wride; Jacky Edwards, who played Wishy Washy in Aladdin last Christmas; deputy mayor Philip Welch; and Michael Smith, who is a children’s entertainer. Compere for the evening was Allan Trinder of GFM. “The talent was absolutely phenomenal,” said Tina. “The judges had to decide the top three places and they had an extremely hard job on their hands, everyone was amazing.” After much deliberation, the top three acts were announced, and then which of them was first, second and third.
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The winners were the McClennan Academy 4 hand reel, consisting of Lola Coomber, Libby Smerdon, Ella Smerdon and Kaci Commber, who performed a beautiful Irish dance routine to some upbeat Irish music. Second place went to Georgina Joanne Sweet, who sang a song from Wicked and wowed everyone with her voice, and third place was presented to seven-year-old Milly Wilmott who also sang a song. Everyone was given their comment sheets from each judge as well as a signed certificate to
thank them for taking part. “I absolutely adored the whole evening and am completely grateful to all of my family and friends who helped out and supported me throughout,” said Tina. “It brought me lots of stress and anxiety and not much sleep for the past few weeks – but it was definitely worth it to see all those smiling faces and performances on the night.” Tina and Terena Gill, from St Margaret’s Hospice, do not have a final figure yet but think that the evening could have raised £1,000 for the charity.
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November 2019
n NEWS
Winners with their trophies at the Wells Moat Boat Races presentation evening
Picture: John Newport Photography
Teams pick up trophies at awards night A GLITTERING ceremony at The Swan Hotel in Wells rounded off this year’s hugely popular Moat Boat Races, held on a very sunny August Bank Holiday Monday. Crews from all the racewinning teams were present to receive their trophies, presented by Wells Deputy Mayor Philip Welch. Councillor Welch praised the organisers, Wells Lions Club and Wells Air Cadets, who have jointly organised the annual charity event for the past 18 years. He said the Moat Boat Races were one of the most popular summer events in Wells, drawing huge crowds and raising substantial funds for local
n IN DAYS GONE BY
Cllr Philip Welch handed out the awards, including to Wookey Hubsters, winners of the Wells Voice-sponsored Communications Cup Pictures : Paul Clegg charities and good causes. This year’s event raised around £10,000 collectively for the charities represented, and the principal charity nominated
by the Bishop of Bath and Wells, the Connect Centre in Wells. Wells Lions President Steve Whitby praised all the event sponsors. He said: “Without the
support of so many Wells-based businesses we wouldn’t be able to stage this event. “We’re so fortunate to have a community-spirited and charityminded business network in Wells.” The Swan Hotel, principal sponsor of the Races for the past four years, provided a sumptuous buffet for the ceremony guests. Owner Kevin Newton and general manager Mark Tobin both attended. Mr Newton said the hotel was delighted to be associated with such a major event in the Wells calendar. “It helps so many local charities, provides fantastic fun for residents and visitors, and brings trade to our city,” he said.
With Clare Blackmore
Open fires proved deadly danger in Victorian home FIRE was an ever present danger in the Victorian home with cooking and heating both done by open fires. An inquest report in 1856 on Charity Priest of St Thomas Street showed that the addition of alcohol increased the danger and in this case led to death. The inquest was held at the Coach and Horses Inn in St Thomas Street and the jurors heard from the Coroner that Charity died whilst in a state of intoxication having caught her clothes on fire. The jury was required to view the body and then evidence was taken. William Priest, husband of
the deceased, said that his wife was about 75 years of age. “I am sorry to say my wife was a great drunkard. I left her drunk at about half past one and went to a neighbour’s house. When I returned home that evening I did not sleep with her as I swore I would never sleep with her when she was drunk so I slept on the settle that night as I was always so disgusted with her when she was in that condition. She came downstairs at about five o’clock in the morning and asked for some water to be drawn from the pump. I told her I would fetch no water for drunkards and then she showed me where she had been burned
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on the head, arm and torso. ‘See how I am burned husband.’ She told me that she took the burning clothes off herself and then told me that had it not been for her stays she would not have been so badly burned. “I put her to bed and she lingered in a miserable way until her death on Thursday morning.” The Coroner returned a verdict that the deceased died by being burnt in a state of intoxication. Also in 1856 an inquest at The Horse and Jockey in Coxley heard that: “A little child, just four years of age, the daughter of John Francis of Harter’s Hill, was playing with the fire in the
temporary absence of her mother who went out to milk one or two cows, when her clothes caught on fire by which the child was so severely burned that it died soon after.” In 1862 Mary Edwards, the housekeeper at The Bishop’s Palace, was going to take clean linen from a basket by the fireplace when her dress caught fire. “The unfortunate woman’s screams brought several servants to her assistance but the flames had consumed the considerable portion of her clothing and body and she died before they succeeded in extinguishing them.”
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November 2019
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n NEWS
Showcase for power of music therapy A CARE home at South Horrington held an open music therapy session in September to highlight the positive impact music therapy has on its residents who are living with dementia. MHA Torrwood offers music therapy as part on its ongoing care to help improve residents’ quality of life, even during the most advanced stages of the condition. This event took place as part of MHA’s national My Moment of Joy campaign. MHA aims to make more people aware of the power music therapy has for alleviating symptoms such as agitation, depression and frustration, unlocking ‘lost’ memories and reconnecting with loved ones. Music therapy can help to lift the fog which dementia creates and improve the quality of life for individuals, as well as helping with ongoing care. The open session kicked off with a presentation from the home’s qualified music therapist, Michael Angus, who spoke about how music therapy works, the scientific data behind it and how it is person-centred so that every one-to-one session is tailored
Michael Angus leading the music therapy session at MHA Torrwood to the individual’s needs. The residents then joined the music therapist along with family members, staff and guests from the local community for a group music therapy session. Michael said: “The day itself was amazing, with lots of input and participation from residents, family members and volunteers alike. It’s always a joy to run this large open music group as you can really tell that everyone enjoys the musical interaction and sense of community that it provides. It’s so important that
Cyclist gives charity £1,300 boost A CYCLIST from Dulcote, near Wells, was one of 10 people who took part in this year’s Prudential RideLondon-Surrey 100 on behalf of local charity Children’s Hospice South West (CHSW). It was the fifth time that Robert Pattison had participated in the 100-mile cycling event for amateur cyclists and he completed it in his best time to date – 6 hours 1 minute. He said: “It was my pleasure to represent CHSW at this year’s RideLondon, I have tried to support smaller or local charities before. Hopefully the money raised will help in some small way.” Robert raised £1,373.45 in sponsorship, which will go towards helping CHSW support families from Wells and the surrounding area at its Charlton Farm hospice in North Somerset. Emma Parker, community fundraiser at CHSW, said: “We
Dulcote’s Robert Pattison in action are so grateful to Robert for supporting our Charlton Farm hospice with his fundraising. The hospice cares for many families in the area whose children are not expected to live into adulthood and support from people like Robert in the community allows us to continue to provide the best possible care to local children and families.”
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the residents have access to this service and I’m lucky that I get to run this group twice a week.” Home manager Beverley Davies added: “You can really feel the effect of the music ripple throughout the rest of the home. Hopefully we were able to create
some moments of joy on the day. Everyone who has dementia deserves to have these precious moments of joy. “It may be for a few moments, a few hours, or it may last for days. Whatever it is, it’s worth it.”
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November 2019
n AROUND THE SOCIETIES INNER WHEEL CLUB OF WELLS ELEVEN members of our club attended the annual District 20 Picnic held at Edgar Hall in Somerton. A large number of Inner Wheel members from all around the District attend this event bringing food and drink to share. The room was soon filled by the sound of chatter when friendships were renewed, and following the opening of the meeting by Maureen Nethaway, District Chairman, the serious business of sampling the delicious food on offer got underway. To round off the evening there were speakers from three of the charities supported by Inner Wheel; School in a Bag, Water Aid and Period Poverty. All members present enjoyed hearing about the work of these charities and being brought up to date with their recent achievements. At our October monthly meeting we were treated to a very informative talk by that ‘larger than life’ character, Len Sweales, the Wells Town Crier. He told us that there has been a Town Crier in Wells since 1503 and regaled us with the various customs associated with the post, showed us his uniform and badge and outlined some of the duties he performs which include announcing notable royal births, marriages and deaths from the balcony at Wells Town Hall. Len has been our Town Crier since 2002 and we wish him many more happy years in post, as Wells would certainly be a less colourful place without him. Liz Hamblin NATIONAL MACULAR SOCIETY WELLS GROUP THE Wells Group is a local branch of the National Macular Society charity. Our group meets monthly offering friendship, support, exchange of information and outings. There are visits by representatives from Social Services, the Macular Society, RNIB and Somerset Sight, and agents from technical companies making optical aids. For further information contact Terry Shawe, tel: 01749 679759, email terryshawe@ gmail.com, or Jenny O’Callaghan, tel: 01749 679235.
Members of the Inner Wheel Club of Wells at the District 20 Picnic, top, and National Macular Society Wells Group members pictured on a recent day out in Weston-super-Mare, above WELLS WI OUR speaker this month was Sandra Newell who showed us how to make Christmas cards using decoupage techniques. She gave us cards, numbered pictures, glue and sticky pads and we were soon cutting and sticking to produce impressive three-dimensional creations featuring robins, Christmas scenes and Disney characters. So if you are a friend or relative of a Wells WI member you may be the lucky recipient of a handmade Christmas card this year. The card crafting was helped along with home-made cakes sold to mark the traditional annual Macmillan fundraiser. Some members booked their places at the popular Christmas carol service at Wells Cathedral. The sub-groups had their usual busy meetings: crafters made recycled shopping bags out of old cotton items, and the book group chose their next read. Walking netball is proving popular. The skittlers are limbering up for their next match but sadly members of our champion quiz team, having won the local round, will be unable to make
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the grand final in Puriton. This month saw the second of our coffee mornings held to raise funds for charities working in areas related to shortlisted resolutions that Wells WI members voted to support, but which did not ultimately make the final selection for a nationwide WI campaign. We chose to support the NSPCC because they work in both the areas that concern Wells WI: they help girls at risk of female genital mutilation, and they support young people in rural areas at risk of becoming enslaved in criminal county lines drugs operations. The event was combined with a book sale and we were able to send £137 to the NSPCC. Wells WI supported Wells Food Festival again by serving refreshment to staff and volunteers having a sit down in the green room in the town hall. Our next meeting will be on Tuesday, November 5, at Wells Museum from 7.30pm onwards. The popular Nicky from Killens Auctioneers will return to share with us some of her knowledge of jewellery and gemstones. The November meeting is the
last chance to bring Christmas boxes for distribution to young residents of YMCAs in Somerset. For some it will be the only gift they receive. Suggested items to include are shower gel, deodorant, shampoo, socks/ gloves, chocolate or sweets, tea, coffee and biscuits that will keep until the end of January 2020. No used items, sharp objects or cash or gift vouchers, please. Boxes should be wrapped in Christmas paper, marked to indicate if contents are male or female specific, and secured with an elastic band rather than sellotape so the organisers can open them if they need to check contents. Veronica Howe WELLS & DISTRICT GARDENING CLUB “THE Somersetshire cottage garden is in a milder climate and in Somerset things do so well and in all that delightful westcountry.” So wrote William Robinson in his large comprehensive volume The English Flower Garden. Robinson was a landscape
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November 2019
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n AROUND THE SOCIETIES gardener and writer of huge influence in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. He was always struck by a pretty cottage surrounded by pretty flowers. And for us too, prettiness is the key with honeysuckle, hollyhocks, pinks and of course old-fashioned roses. That’s our notion, anyway. It will be put to the test when Neil Lovesey will be giving a talk on The Cottage Garden – its History and Future at the next meeting of Wells Gardening Club. Neil runs the Picket Lane Nursery just over the border in Dorset and he will be bringing some plants for sale. The talk takes place in Wells Town Hall on Thursday, November 28, at 7.30pm, when we shall learn more about this most English of gardening styles. Everyone is very welcome. Visitors £3, members £1. For more details: 01749 679182. Pip Harwood WELLS CIVIC SOCIETY HOW do you get an elephant on a plane? Up the steps. Pause. But do you need a jumbo jet? Where would you expect to hear this seemingly bizarre conversation? Surely not at a staid meeting of the Wells Civic Society. Oh, yes, you would, if they are listening to and asking questions of Gerry Cottle, once the owner or operator of three circuses and now, since he decided to retire and found he could not take life easy, the owner for the past 15 years of Wookey Hole Caves, and all the attractions that go with them. His childhood in the London area suggested that stockbroking or something of that ilk would be his career, but he found from the age of eight that he was in love with circuses and ploughed his own furrow, first helping in them and then performing as a juggler and magician, before moving on to running them, owning them, and travelling the world with them – hence the question about elephants and planes. Hong Kong, Singapore, China, Russia, the Middle East, South America were among the countries to enjoy his circuses, while in England the West Country was particularly favoured. Gerry is an advocate of the young travelling and benefiting from all they can
the Wells Museum, Cathedral Green, at 7.30pm on Wednesday, November 13. The Annual General Meeting will take place before their presentation. The Annual Report is available on www.wellscivicsociety.org.uk. Members and guests will be very welcome, with light refreshments available from 7.15pm. Richard Hanks Wells & District Gardening Club will hear a talk on the cottage garden in November. Pictured is musk rose Buff Beauty (1939) learn along the road. But after 30 years, was it time to settle down? This proved not to be the case, and Gerry saw the potential of Wookey Hole Caves, although he confessed to not previously having been particularly interested in caves. While it is an heritage attraction, Gerry sees it as a place for families, and has developed the site and its multiple attractions. Of course, the hotel has been built, and recently two caravan sites have been added. The attractions are numerous with the caves being ideal for Halloween, Santa Land, and now their unique illusion show. But the caves are not subsidiary, and a new one has been opened up recently. But what Gerry is possibly most proud of, reflecting his previous life, is the circus skills courses they run for local children and young people. They are very popular, the participants learn how to cooperate, and they grow in confidence as they put on a show each weekend. Gerry, with his relaxed delivery and easy style, had shown himself to be a natural communicator. Clearly, a man with lots of ideas and an abundance of energy, he obviously has an insightful instinct as to what will work, and had shown glimpses of a shrewd businessman and canny negotiator. The atmosphere in the room throughout his informal talk had been warm and the appreciation at the end clearly showed how much the audience had enjoyed it. Surely the next meeting marks new ground for the society, when stories of stage and screen will be told and revealed by Andrew Fawcett and Richard Green. This will be in
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HENTON AND DISTRICT WI HENTON and District WI meet in Henton Village Hall (B3139) on the second Wednesday of each month at 7.30pm. The meeting on November 13 will be a hands-on opportunity to make decorative wreaths for the hall and maybe pick up a tip or two for the festive season. Raffle and refreshments. Visitors welcome (£3). Further information from Barbara Sprague: 01749 677935. HENTON AND DISTRICT GARDENING CLUB THE speaker at the meeting on November 20 is Liz McDonnell with her illustrated talk on Wild Flowers of Somerset. Come and see how many you can name. We meet on the third Wednesday of each month at 7.30pm in Henton Village Hall (B3139) and welcome visitors (£3) with raffle and coffee. Our programme covering a wide range of horticultural topics and visits can be viewed on our website – www. hentongardenclub.weebly.com WELLS MEN’S BREAKFAST WELLS Men’s Breakfast will be meeting on Saturday, November 2, at The Connect Centre, Chamberlain Street, Wells. Our speaker this month will be Anthony Butler whose subject will be Factors to consider when joining a political party. This seems particularly relevant in these politically turbulent times, and we are looking forward to a stimulating talk. We welcome newcomers and, if you would like to join us, please ring 07974 879902 before Thursday, October 31. Doors open at 7.30am, breakfast is at 8am, and we finish by about 9.30am. The cost is £9.
n NEWS Choir preparing for next concert THE Chorus of Disapproval, a mixed voice community choir based in Wells, will be holding its next concert in December. The choir rehearses every Monday during term time at Stoberry Park Primary School, from 7.30pm to 8.30pm, and has biannual concerts. The next concert will be at St Thomas’ Church on December 7 at 7.30pm. Tickets will be sold on the door. The choir started life in June 2012 and has grown dramatically in size, now with more than 50 members from Wells and the surrounding area. It is conducted by both Verity Stoffell and Andrew Brooke, two secondary school teachers with a passion for inclusive music making. People of all ages and backgrounds are invited to join. There is no need to audition or to be able to read music. For more information, contact Andrew Brooke, the choir’s conductor, on 01749 673375 or email ABrooke@educ.somerset.gov.uk
Sample entire history of music TO celebrate their annual commemoration, the Vicars Choral of Wells Cathedral Choir will be joined by local historian Elsa van der Zee to present an ambitious programme of choral works that trace the entire history of music, from Machaut to Mash-up. The singers, conducted by Jeremy Cole, will be performing the revamped version of their Commemoration Concert – an annual event in honour of Bishop Ralph of Shrewsbury and in appreciation for his vision in founding the College of Vicars Choral – at Wells Cathedral on Thursday, November 14, at 8pm. Proceeds from this concert will go towards the work and mission of Wells Cathedral. Tickets are £15, available from Wells Cathedral Shop Box Office (01749 672773), via Eventbrite (booking fee applies), or on the door until sold out. Email your news stories to news@wellsvoice.co.uk
Email: news@wellsvoice.co.uk
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n NEWS
Good outcome from care home inspection STAFF and residents at a Wells care home have celebrated some ‘Good’ news. Following a Care Quality Commission (CQC) inspection in August, Somerset Care’s Fletcher House was rated ‘Good’, confirming its status as a leading care home in the area. The CQC is an independent regulator that provides framework and benchmark guidance to ensure best practice within health and social care. Inspections assess core criteria to determine whether organisations are deemed safe, effective, caring, responsive and well led. In this instance Fletcher House was praised for achieving ‘Good’ across each of the individual areas and rated ‘Good’ overall. Trudy Bower, manager at Fletcher House, said: “It is great for everyone associated with Fletcher House to have
Celebrations for the ‘Good’ rating at Fletcher House their work acknowledged and recognised. Delivering care for residents is our core focus and
priority, but what underpins this is a level of diligent detail and robust process to ensure we
achieve the high standards we set ourselves and required by the CQC.”
Wells artist features in new show Thousands join reading challenge THE Bishop’s Palace in Wells will be hosting a new exhibition curated by art specialists Creative Coverage from November 9 until December 20. The exhibition will comprise works from a selection of nine professional artists who are members of South West-based art marketing company. Works will be selected from artists including the Wells-based Joanna Commings. Joanna has been drawing and painting all her life and
moved to Somerset in 2015. She is enjoying discovering a new landscape including the Mendips, the Quantocks and the Blackdown Hills, with a new focus on trees, woodland and softer farmland. She works mainly in acrylics and her work has been exhibited in galleries throughout the South West of England. Creative Coverage co-founder Caroline Saunders said: “We are looking forward to exhibiting in this wonderful exhibition space.”
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MORE than 7,000 children visited libraries across Somerset over the summer, including Wells Library, to take part in Space Chase – this year’s national Summer Reading Challenge inspired by the 50th anniversary of the first moon landing. Children signed up to read up to six books and received rewards for every book they read. Councillor David Hall, Somerset County Council Cabinet Member with responsibility for libraries, said:
“The Summer Reading challenge has been a tremendous success. Feedback from children and families has shown that this initiative makes a real impact to encourage reading, whilst the events and activities have raised the profile of libraries as engaging places to come and have fun. “I would like to thank all the volunteers who gave up their time to help support and give back to their local library and their local communities.”
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November 2019
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n NEWS
Capturing magic of Christmas season THE Bishop’s Palace in Wells will once again be celebrating the magic of the Christmas season over two weeks of festive fun in December. From December 8-23, the rooms of the medieval Palace building will each be adorned with decorations on a different theme, from medieval through Victorian to Nordic. The Entrance Hall will be warmed by a roaring fire, and seasonal greenery and foliage from the Palace Gardens will be used to create adornments to complement the historic interiors. For younger visitors, a ticket can be bought to visit Father and Mother Christmas who will be meeting children in the Palace on December 8, 14, 15, 21 and 22. Each child will get individual time with Father Christmas, and a gift. Tickets for Father Christmas can be bought now online, and always sell out in advance. There will also be a Christmas-themed family trail which will take visitors through the Palace & Gardens, leading to a traditional Nativity scene at the end. Family Christmas craft sessions will be taking place daily upstairs at the Palace, giving children the chance to create handmade decorations. Check the website for timings. In addition, on Saturday, December 14, and Saturday, December 21, Wells Theatre Company will be performing a
Landlords Q&A
with Stuarts Residential
answered by Stuart Nash
How often is it necessary to obtain Gas Safety check? Welcome to the first of our Landlord’s Q&A columns. Each month we choose a question received from local landlords. Our first is from James, who asks: “I’ve heard that I only need to obtain a Gas Safety check on my property every 15 months now. Is this true?” Christmas celebrations are coming to the Palace costumed reading of Dickens’ atmospheric tale A Christmas Carol in the Entrance Hall of the Palace at 11am and 2pm. The shows will last around an hour and will involve costumed actors, musicians and carol singers bringing this timeless tale to life in a wholly unique way around the medieval fireplace. Each weekend there will be a selection of musical performances in the Chapel, based on Christmas themes, and the cafe will be selling mulled wine and mince pies to get visitors in the Christmas spirit. Entrance to Christmas at the Palace is included in standard admission, Father Christmas tickets are £10 per child and include admission for the child, who must be accompanied by a paying adult/member.
The Gas Safety (Installation and Use) (Amendment) Regulations 2018 made changes to the timing of Gas Safety checks. Whilst the requirement to check all gas appliances remains at once every 12 months, it was recognised that many Landlords were leaving it until the expiry of the previous record to have the next check carried out. Finding an available Gas Safe engineer and arranging for the check to be done is not always as straightforward as it seems and the unintended consequence was that some Landlords were left with a period of time where they were not compliant. To re-balance this the Amendment regulations now allow for a Gas Safety check to be done up to two months before expiry and that check can then be treated as having been made on the deadline date. Much like a car MOT. For example, if your
certificate runs out on the 30th November 2019, you can have the check done anytime from the 30th September 2019 and the new Gas Safety Record will run until 30th November 2020. The regulations also introduced an allowance for new appliances installed during the life of the current Gas Safety Record to be checked up to 14 months after they were first installed. So if a new boiler was installed on the 30th September 2019 it doesn’t need to be checked again until the 30th November 2020. A Gas Safety Record should also be served on your existing tenants within 28 days and before occupation on a new tenancy. Failure to do the latter can lead to a Section 21 notice being invalid. Having no Gas Safety Record is a breach of the Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1998 as well as potentially affecting your Buildings Insurance and the safety of your tenants. We’d be happy to give further guidance on this to any Landlords in need. l Have a question for Stuart you’d like answered here? Email qanda@ stuartsresidential.com. Identities are protected.
Unique artisans at festive markets THIS year’s Christmas Artisan Markets will take place in The Bishop’s Palace from November 1-3, from 10am-4pm. For the fifth year running, there will be a plethora of unique, unusual and inspirational artisans in attendance, curated from throughout the heart of the West Country to get everyone in the mood for a spot of seasonal retail therapy. As well as the regular favourites, the Palace team has sourced a large number of new
artisan stalls so that visitors can get their Christmas shopping started with a bang. The cafe will be offering seasonal food and drink, and there will be musical performances in the chapel. Tickets are available at a special reduced price (£7 adult, child 5-18 £3, under 5s and Palace members free), including entry to the whole site, and are available from the Palace Shop, by telephone on 01749 988 111 or online at www.bishopspalace. org.uk.
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stuartresidential.com
Landlords, stay compliant and subscribe to our free monthly e-newsletter at www.stuartsresidential.com Email: news@wellsvoice.co.uk
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n PROPERTY
New lettings office in response to demand LODESTONE Property’s busy lettings department in Bruton has gone from strength to strength since launching in 2016 during which time it has established a reputation for its portfolio of quality properties, from one-bedroom barn conversions to large country manor houses, across Somerset. They put their success down to the quality of service they offer together with their modern ethos that is firmly in the digital age. The Lodestone teams takes the time to understand their clients and property needs and as a result the business has grown. In response to the success of lettings in Bruton and the increasing demand for more quality rental properties across the region, Lodestone has announced the opening of a new lettings service in the Lodestone
office, Wells, which will be headed up by Kate Lewis. Kate has lived in and around Wells all her life and has extensive knowledge of the local area. This, together with her experience of lettings and a passion for property, means that a lot more people will be able to benefit from the Lodestone offering. Anyone who has a property to let or who is looking for their next rental property is invited to contact Kate on 01749 605088 or email kate@lodestoneproperty. co.uk and she will be happy to discuss their requirements. Cathy Morris-Adams and Sue Macey launched Lodestone as a new breed of estate agency with no high street presence. They branched out from Bruton with the opening of the Wells office last year.
A For Sale sign has gone up outside Wells Police Station
Offers invited for police station WELLS Police Station on Glastonbury Road has gone up for sale. Offers in excess of £1.5 million are being invited by the Bristol office of property consultancy Hartnell Taylor Cook, who say that the land and buildings would be suitable for a range of uses including residential or care home.
The Wells police enquiry and response team will be moving to a new police station being built in Shepton Mallet and expected to open in spring 2020. The local neighbourhood policing team will remain in Wells, moving to the fire station at Burcott Road once that building has been extended; a planning application will be submitted soon.
Following the success of our Lettings office in Bruton, we are expanding. Lodestone Lettings opened in our Wells office (situated on Chamberlain Street) on the 21st of October. This will enable more people to experience our high quality service and benefit from our specialist knowledge of Somerset. Please contact Kate Lewis our Wells Lettings Advisor at: kate@lodestoneproperty.co.uk or call our Wells office on: 01749 605088 www.lodestoneproperty.co.uk bruton@lodestoneproperty.co.uk | wells@lodestoneproperty.co.uk
Got News? Call 07906 499655
Kate Lewis
01749 605099 (Bruton) 01749 605088 (Wells)
Email: news@wellsvoice.co.uk
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n THE PROPERTY MARKET
November 2019
With Roderick Thomas of Roderick Thomas Ltd
Not just a new home but a new lifestyle
IT’S Sunday evening on October 20 and I’m wondering if we’ll have a Brexit Deal. Will we have another referendum, a general election, a delay, a Brexit (hard or soft) and how will we all be affected? Your guess is probably better than mine. However, one guess I will make with some confidence is that more of us will take our holidays in the UK in the coming years. Whatever the political outcome we’re likely to have possibly warmer and probably more settled weather (compared to some countries) and flying will be less popular. With this in mind, would
you like a lifestyle change? If you would, we have a fabulous property and business venture for sale between Wells and Wedmore. It’s Box Farm and is an exceptional residential and commercial property enjoying a peaceful and private setting in beautiful countryside with a large farmhouse, several holiday cottages, outbuildings and more than 11 acres. Currently run as a profitable business, it has good income figures. We’ve a guide price of £1,500,000. If you want to be master of your own destiny and enjoy a great lifestyle, this might well be for you. Call me for details.
Box Farm has a large farmhouse, several holiday cottages, outbuildings and more than 11 acres
To advertise, contact Andy on 01749 675157
CASTLE CARY 01963 351993 WEDMORE 01934 710220 WELLS 01749 670079 Mobile 07791789954 www.roderickthomas.co.uk rdt@roderickthomas.co.uk
Email: sales@wellsvoice.co.uk
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n PROPERTY
Couple team up at new housing site A HUSBAND and wife team have joined forces to form a successful working relationship building and selling homes in Wells. John Olds, based at Bovis Homes’ Priory Fields development on Wookey Hole Road, said he had a great working relationship with Jade, a sales advisor at Priory Fields. The 30-year-old, who joined the housing industry when he left school at 16, said: “The relationship between the build and sales teams here at Wells is very good. It has to be. I have the privilege of working with my wife and we make a very good team. We stay on top of everything because we’re always discussing the location and what needs to be done, outside of working hours. “We’re really proud of our new homes collection here at Priory Fields. The quality is great and we’re getting some brilliant customer feedback.”
Green Ore £835,000
North Wootton £450,000
South Horrington £365,000
John and Jade Olds, who are working together at Priory Fields Not only do the couple work together at a Bovis Homes location, they also live in one – called High View, a few miles up the A39 in Paulton – along with their five-year-old daughter Eva. They also previously worked together there, and Jade’s mum
A stunning Grade 2 listed five bedroom house with two bedroom annex set in attractive gardens of 1/2 acre with parking and garaging. A substantial four bedroom bungalow set in generous gardens and with a triple garage. Situated in the heart of this popular and quiet village, away from main roads. A delightful three bedroom conversion of the former cricket pavilion overlooking the cricket ground and with gardens, parking and storage sheds.
Darshill £515,000
Croscombe £435,000
Wells £245,000
was so impressed she moved just around the corner to live in a property built by her son-in-law. Bovis Homes say that there has been a mix of purchasers at Priory Fields, from first-time buyers to retirees, attracted by the homes and the range
A spacious six bedroom character home quietly located and providing accommodation of 3000 sq.ft. with gardens and car port. A charming newly built four bedroom home set close to the centre of this popular village with front and rear gardens, garage and parking. Local facilities within walking distance. A very well presented two bedroom bungalow set in a quiet residential area with gardens, parking and garage. No onward chain. Must be seen.
of purchasing options, such as the Government’s Help to Buy – Equity Loan scheme and Bovis Homes’ Home Exchange initiative. Home Exchange sees the housebuilder purchasing the customer’s current property, one advantage of which is that purchasers can stay in their current house until their new home is ready. To part-exchange their home, a customer’s current property must be valued at no more than 75 per cent of the new Bovis Home they wish to purchase. Bovis Homes will arrange for the buyer’s property to be valued, then make them an offer based on the valuation. Properties in Bovis Homes’ new collection are named after British trees. To find out more about the house types and purchasing schemes available, visit www. bovishomes.co.uk.
Croscombe £460,000
A much loved character cottage dating back to the 15th century and providing charming three bedroom accommodation with period features and walled garden.
Wookey £375,000
A delightful detached bungalow situated in this sought-after village offering well-presented accommodation, an award-winning garden, a detached garage and ample parking.
Haydon £1,500,000
Due to relocation, a prominent detached headquarters building with adjoining industrial unit providing 15,000 sq.ft. situated just outside Wells in attractive countryside.
10 Sadler Street, Wells, Somerset BA5 2SE
01749 671172 wells@killens.org.uk
Got News? Call 07906 499655
Email: news@wellsvoice.co.uk
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November 2019
n NEWS
Homes scheme aims to support military WHEN members of the military, veterans, and their families are looking to set up home, they will now be offered the chance to support their current and former colleagues as they do so, thanks to a new commercial agreement between Moving Experience and SSAFA, the armed forces charity. The Bristol-based mortgage and insurance advice business aims to raise a minimum of £5,000 each year and will offer a discounted advice and arrangement fee for the military community, through the scheme that has just been announced. “In 2017 one way that we chose to celebrate our 10 years in business was to raise money for the local hospital that had helped my young family,” said company director and principal advisor Matt Colley, “which we did by offering a reduced
CALL US ON
fee for mortgage advice and arrangement to NHS staff, and then donating the fees to Southmead Hospital Charity once the transaction completed.” Explaining how the new agreement with SSAFA came about, he said: “Once we’d shown the scheme works, we wanted to extend the offer and say thanks to the armed forces community too. “I was a military baby, born whilst my father was in the RAF, and I have friends and clients who served in all three of the forces. When you spend so much time away, then a safe and stable place to call home can take even more significance. If my team can help military personnel to create a home, and some financial security, plus help the charity that delivers in so many ways, that will be amazing.”
0117 204 7441
www.moving-experience.net MORTGAGES
ê First Time Buyers ê Review & Remortgage ê Home Movers ê Investment Properties PROTEC TION
ê Life Insurance ê Critical Illness Cover ê Income Protection ê Family Income Benefit
YOUR PROPERTY MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON YOUR MORTGAGE.
Muttiserv Limited trading as Moving Experience is an appointed representative of PRIMIS Mortgage Network, a trading name of First Complete Limited which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. The Financial Conduct Authority does not regulate all Buy to Let mortgages.
ARE YOU AN NHS EMPLOYEE?
Call to ask about our discount scheme for all NHS staff. WHAT DO OUR CLIENTS SAY?
The Cards for Good Causes charity has opened this year’s ‘pop up shop’ in St Cuthbert’s Church, Wells. The shop is open now from 10am-4pm, Monday to Saturday, until December 16, selling charity Christmas cards, advent calendars/candles and a variety of festive gifts. This is a special year for the charity as it is celebrating its 60th year. Shop manager Hayley Downer is pictured, right, at the opening with volunteer Chloe Allen
Groundsman named schools’ best WELLS Cathedral School head of grounds, Craig Keast, has been chosen as School Groundsman of the Year for 2019 by Cricket World. Craig attended an award ceremony at Lord’s at the end of September when he was presented with his trophy. Editor of Cricket World and one of the judges of this year’s awards, Alastair Symondson, said: “Craig has done a truly outstanding job as head groundsman at Wells Cathedral School. He is in his 32nd year of service and continues to produce superb cricket wickets.” Craig said: “Our main cricket
pitch, Cedars, has 22 strips with the middle 10, which were laid in 1995, built on a stone raft. We now host representative cricket on a regular basis, in addition to a packed schedule of school fixtures.”
Cathedral hosts young farmers
“Professional, proactive, and caring from start to finish . . . with a hint of humour!” CG, 12/2018
Our typical broker fees for a mortgage, payable on application, are: • Where the mortgage is to be used for property purchase, a fixed fee of £249. • For remortgage applications we will charge a fee of £209 for loans above £125,000. The fee for loans below £125,000 will be £249. • We will also be paid commission by the lender.
To advertise, contact Andy on 01749 675157
Craig Keast with his award
A sheep at Wells Cathedral for the Harvest Service
THE 85th Young Farmers Clubs’ Harvest Service was held at Wells Cathedral. The harvest torch, which has been taken round Somerset to be the focal point at harvest services, school harvest festivals and Young Farmers meetings – after being commissioned by Love British Food – was delivered to the door of the Cathedral by tractor. Rural affairs advisor Rob Walrond was also commissioned at the service as chaplain to the YFC; he is himself a farmer so understands and shares the concerns of the farming community, and does a lot of work to support them.
Email: sales@wellsvoice.co.uk
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n WHAT’S ON November 2 n Wells Natural History & Archaeological Society talk by Doug Robinson, Wells – Its Geological History. Wells & Mendip Museum, 2.30pm. Members free, visitors £2. n Halloween disco (4pm), firework display (6.30pm) and silent disco (8pm), Wells City FC, Rowdens Rd. November 3 n Oxfam quiz at the Britannia Inn, Wells. 7.30pm start. Teams of up to six, £2.50 per team member. Phone Terry on 01749 672342 to book. November 4 n Wells U3A Singing for Pleasure group will meet in the Seager Hall, Union Street, at 2.30pm. All U3A members welcome. n Wells Fountain Poets meet at The Venue, 42 South Street, 7.45pm for 8pm. Guest poet will be Chrissy Banks. Plus open-mic; no need to book. For information ring Ama Bolton on 01749 672911. November 6 n Wells Board Game Group, Cheese Yard Cafe, West Horrington, 7pm-9.30pm. n St Thomas’ Women’s Fellowship: Starfish Project with Mike Chipperfield, St Thomas’ Church Hall, 7pm. Husbands and visitors welcome – £2 each.
Lighting the Learning Flame
COXLEY PRIMARY SCHOOL invite you to our open day on Wednesday 6th November for children starting school in September 2020. Please call the school on 01749 672719 to book a tour. Tours can also be arranged for alternative days if necessary. www.coxleyschool.co.uk n Action On Hearing Loss (RNID) hearing assessment, Wells Library, 9.30am-noon. Free, very quick, no appointment needed, no obligation. November 7 n Bereavement Cafe, St Thomas’ Church, 10.30am-noon. For anyone who has lost a loved one, come and talk over a cuppa. November 8 n Wookey Hole Cinema at the
Community Hall: Balloon (12A), historical drama set during the Cold War. Doors open 7pm, film show starts 7.30pm. More at wookeyholecinemaclub.weebly. com n SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 9: Women’s Circle – Deepening into Presence: Activating the Priestess Archetype. 1.55pm4.15pm at Wells Town Hall. £12/£10 concessions. For further information call or text Angela on 07856 515040. November 9 n Coffee Morning, Wells Methodist Church, Southover, 10am-noon. All welcome. n Coffee morning with home made cakes for Glastonbury & Wells Cats Protection, Seager Hall, Union Street, 10.30am-1pm. Christmas cards, calendars and a few gifts will be on sale. n Wells Labour Party Coffee Morning, Lawrence Centre, Chamberlain Street, 10.30am12.30pm. Drop in for a cup of tea or coffee, a piece of cake and a friendly chat. Talk about topical issues with like-minded people. n Wells in Mosaic Quiz and Curry Night fundraiser, Connect Centre, Wells, 7pm for 7.30pm start. Tickets £7.50 per person to include curry and quiz fee. Book at wellsinmosaic.org/events, call 01749 677510 or email contact@ wellsinmosaic.org n Modern Calligraphy Beginner Full Day Workshop, White Hart Hotel, 10am-3pm, £75. To book: www.mirabellemakery.com/shop n Swan Singers’ concert at St Cuthbert’s Church, Wells: Victoria Requiem of 1605, 7pm. Tickets £10 from the church office (office@ stcuthbertswells.co.uk, 01749 676906) or at the door. November 10 n Open Mic Night with Ross Kirk, The Pheasant Inn, Wookey. Music from 4pm. November 13 n Christmas Craft Market, Seager Hall, Union Street, 10am-4pm. Admission free. November 16 n St Margaret’s Hospice Care annual Christmas Fair, Wells Town Hall, 10am-3pm. Crafts, cushions, soaps, wooden toys, vintage clothing, sweets, Christmas cards, tombola. Admission free. n Mid Somerset’s 25th Annual Christmas Craft Fair, Wells Town Hall, 10am-4pm. Unique and
Got News? Call 07906 499655
unusual crafts and gifts for Christmas or the home. n Binegar & Gurney Slade Social Group Craft Fair, Binegar Hall, 1.30pm-4pm. November 18 n Wells U3A Singing for Pleasure group will meet in the Seager Hall, Union Street, at 2.30pm. All U3A members welcome. November 20 n Wells Board Game Group, Cheese Yard Cafe, West Horrington, 7pm-9.30pm. November 23 n Vintage Somerset Fair, Wells Town Hall, 9.30am-4pm. Vintage clothes, vinyl, gifts, accessories, jewellery, toys, books, collectables, kitchenalia and more. Entry £1, 50p for students, under 16s free. n Christmas Coffee Morning and Art Exhibition, Wookey Hole Community Hall, 10.30am-1.30pm. Festive refreshments, sales table. Proceeds in aid of hall funds. November 27 n Christmas Craft Market, Seager Hall, Union Street, 10am-4pm. Admission free.
November 28 n Art/history series The Devil in the Detail with Joanna Cobb, MA, featured work for November: The March of the Guards to Finchley, by William Hogarth, Seager Hall, 2pm-4pm. £10 for one person/£18 for two people. Includes handouts and refreshments. All welcome. Reserve a place on 01458 832178 or ericjoanna@waitrose.com TAI CHI Connect Centre, Wells Mondays 7pm - 8.30pm £5 per class Bob 07791 291886 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. Continued on page 50
Will Writing & Estate Planning
A Will lets you protect your family’s inheritance and decide how your assets are shared out –
if you don’t make a Will, the law says who gets what. 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.
Please feel free to call us during office hours on 0800 019 4557 or email us at info@elm-online. co.uk
Standard single or pair of mirrored Wills £99 Email: news@wellsvoice.co.uk
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November 2019
n WHAT’S ON From page 49 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. n KMA Dance, ‘Feet & Beat’ Dance Fitness, Centrespace, Market Street, Wells, and Westbury Village Hall. See KMADance.com or kaye@ kmadance.com, 07799 814204. Also Tues, Fri, Sat. Every Tuesday n Soda Art Group, 1.30pm3.30pm, Learning and Skills Centre, Portway. Special welcome for people with a disability. Tutorials, chances to exhibit, and expeditions out for workshops. More from 01749 673755 or 673334. n Wells Good Afternoon Choir, Seager Hall, Wells, 2pm-4pm. ‘Singing in the Afternoon’ with Grenville Jones. Everyone welcome. gac@grenvillemusic.co.uk n 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 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.
NOVEMBER EVENTS Saturday 2nd: Eco Café, Little Theatre, Wells, 10am-noon. All welcome to share cake, coffee and latest news on environmental actions. Monday 11th: Sustainable Wells Monthly Gathering, Little Theatre, 7pm-9pm. ‘What Next for Wells’ Carbon Zero Journey?’ A chance to answer the question by practising with a People’s Assembly! Email: sustwells@gmail.com sustainablewells.org.uk
YOGA
Improves Strength, Flexibility & Balance; Reduces Stress Beginners & Improvers Weekly Classes CentreSpace, Wells Various Days & Times £7 per class / £40 for 6 classes Transformational Yoga Weekly 1.5hr class, £10 Also Available: Private 1 to1, Private Groups, Corporate, Workshops Melanie Kelly 07305 193018 mkwellbeing19@gmail.com f mk wellbeing
TEEN YOGA
For 13 to 17 year olds CentreSpace, Wells Wednesdays 4.00 - 5.00pm Details as above 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, call 01749 939515 or 01749 674729. n Wells Table Tennis Club, Seager 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
To advertise, contact Andy on 01749 675157
welcome, whether single or a couple. Contact: 01749 674920. 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 play and board games. Members must be 18 or over; juniors (12 or over) can attend with adult member. facebook.com/ groups/1395072510738529/ n Pilates mat class, Wells Town Hall, 9.15am. Pre-booking essential: zest2zen@gmail.com, 07946 310877. 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 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, 10am-11am £5, drop in. For more details: 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 Wells Refugee Aid collection at Wells Town Hall, 10am-11.45am. 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. 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. 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 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 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. 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.
Email: sales@wellsvoice.co.uk
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n WHAT’S ON 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 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. More details from 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). Third Monday of each month n Mendip Postcard Club meets for interesting talks, Wells Town Hall, 7.30pm. Guests welcome. Refreshments provided. More 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. Full programme on our website: www.hentongardenclub.weebly. com Third Friday of each month n Goldies Sing&Smile in Wells, Elim
PRINCES ROAD, WELLS, BA5 1TD
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. More details: Gwen, 07712 206578.
Advertise your event in our What’s On section with a 5cm x 1 column display advert like this
Just £15 + VAT
Find out more by emailing sales@wellsvoice.co.uk
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 brief details of events to news@wellsvoice.co.uk
OPEN 7 DAYS DISABLED ACCESS IN ALL 3 SCREENS A WEEK 01749 673195
wellsfilmcentre.co.uk
UPCOMING EVENT CINEMA FLEABAG ENCORE (15) - NT LIVE
WEDNESDAY 6TH NOVEMBER - 7.30PM HANSARD (15) - NT LIVE
THURSDAY 7TH NOVEMBER - 7PM
NOVEMBER FILM RELEASES
42ND STREET (PG) - THEATRE ROYAL SUN 10TH - 4.30PM & TUES 12TH NOV -7PM SHAKIRA IN CONCERT: EL DORADO (PG)
THE AERONAUTS (PG) - 4TH AFTER THE WEDDING (12A) - 8TH WEDNESDAY 13TH NOVEMBER - 8PM TERMINATOR: DARK FATE (15) - 8TH LIONEL RICHIE AT GLASTONBURY LE MANS ‘66 (CERT TBC) - 15TH TUESDAY 19TH NOVEMBER - 7.30PM SORRY WE MISSED YOU (15) - 15TH TIMON OF ATHENS - RSC FROZEN 2 (TBC) - 22ND MIDWAY (12A) - 22ND WEDNESDAY 20TH NOVEMBER - 7PM GOOD LIAR (15) - 22ND CHARLIE’S ANGELS ( TBC) - 29TH PRESENT LAUGHTER - NT LIVE LAST CHRISTMAS (12A) - 29TH THURSDAY 28TH NOVEMBER - 7PM
PLUS MANY MORE, A WORLD OF CINEMA AWAITS!
Got News? Call 07906 499655
Email: news@wellsvoice.co.uk
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November 2019
n SPORT Free-scoring A team top table FOOTBALL
Insane Games of Wells have kindly purchased match-day training tops for the children of Wells City U14s. The players got to celebrate in style by winning 8-3 in a top of the table clash against Norton Youth on Sunday, September 29, in the Yeovil League.
Wells have to settle for point in game against local rivals FOOTBALL WELLS and Cheddar fought out a draw in the clash at the Athletic Ground on October 22. Harry Foster put Wells ahead after five minutes when he slid the ball through the keeper’s legs. Dale Hunt doubled the lead with a 25-yard screamer 20 minutes later. A header from Cheddar’s Adam Jones made the score 2-1 at half-time, and Adam Wright grabbed the equaliser in the 67th minute after Wells failed to clear their lines. In other games in the past month, Wells produced one of their best squad performances for years in beating Corsham, with five goals coming in the first 11 minutes. The tone was set when Harry Foster slotted home just a minute into the game, and further goals quickly followed from Ross Padfield, Alex Camm (2) and another from Foster. Foster completed his hat-trick with a half-volley on 65 minutes, and Craig Herrod rounded off a fine display by slotting home eight minutes from time to make the final score 7-0. Wells followed it up with a
Jekyll and Hyde performance when they entertained Bishops Lydeard – outplayed and out worked in the first 45 minutes but then in complete control for the second 45. Lydeard took the lead when Harrison Veale half-cleared under pressure and was lobbed from 35 yards. Wells came out for the second half a different team and within five minutes had pulled level when Herrod’s low cross was inadvertently sliced into the net by a Lydeard defender. Wells pressed for a winner but were denied by some fine saves by the Lydeard keeper. Wells faced higher league opposition a few days later when they travelled to Premier Division Wellington in the Somerset Premier Cup. Harvey Hadrill was unlucky when a 40-yard effort hit the post, but Wells had a goal to show for their efforts when Alex Camm was on the end of a Craig Herrod pass. Some fine keeping from Josh Bond kept Wells ahead at the break, and they went further ahead after the restart when Dale Hunt was twice on target,
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and Camm got his second of the game. Wellington pulled a goal back on 69 minutes, but minutes later man of the match Harvey Hadrill got the goal he deserved to put some gloss on the tie. Wells will now face Bishop Sutton at home in the next round in the week commencing November 11. On October 12, Wells were away at Calne, where they slipped to a 3-1 defeat. Harry Foster smashed home a half-volley to give them the lead, but had a penalty saved early in the second half, and Calne seized the initiative, their No 7 scoring a hat-trick within 12 minutes to wrap up the three points. Wells put that disappointment behind them with a great win over Oldland Abbotonians. A Kieran Davis thunderbolt after three minutes was cancelled out by a goal from the penalty spot, but Dale Hunt restored the lead and Harry Foster made it 3-1 before half-time. Tom Hill completed the scoring on 57 minutes when he saw the keeper off his line and lobbed him from all of 30 yards to make the final score 4-1.
WELLS City A have continued the high-scoring form with which they started the season. On September 28, the First Division side hosted Premier Division Evercreech Rovers in the first round of the Dimmock Green Cup. With the team full of confidence, they started strongly. The first goal came when centre back Ben Warren executed a perfect finish from a long range free kick. Minutes later a Tom Pledger cross found the head of Stefan Wasmuht who made it 2-0. Captain Dan Catley slotted home a third before the break, and later converted a penalty won by substitute Ben Clarke. The team suffered their first defeat on October 5, going down 5-3 in a top-of-the-table clash with Peasedown Albion Reserves. Wells got off to the best possible start when Stefan Wasmuht opened the scoring after two minutes, and they quickly doubled their lead through Ryan Pledger. But Peasedown hit back with three goals before half-time, and added a fourth early in the second half. With ten minutes to go Tyler Cornish give Wells a small glimmer of hope with a well taken goal, but Peasedown added a fifth with a well-executed counter-attack. The A team got back to winning ways when they hosted Portishead Town A in the Junior Cup. City started the game brightly but fell behind to a spectacular overhead kick. Not letting this early setback unsettle them, they went on to score three unanswered goals through Ryan Pledger, Stefan Wasmuht and Jordan Strode-Walton. They followed up the win with a 6-0 victory at Somer Valley Sports which saw them go to the top of the league. Man of the match Tyler Cornish opened the scoring after five minutes with a free kick, and repeated the feat minutes later. He quickly completed his hat-trick with a powerful header, before Stefan Wasmuht struck after latching on to a through ball from Jordan Strode-Walton. Wasmuht netted his 14th of the season after the break, and substitute Ben Hewlett completed the scoring ten minutes from time.
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n SPORT
Knight keeps up scoring streak despite side’s mixed fortunes RUGBY THE past month has been one of mixed fortunes for Wells Rugby Club. The First Team have played three games, winning one, against Weston-superMare 2nds. This was a most entertaining game for the spectator, ten tries, plus some exciting rugby to watch. Earlier in the month, a muchchanged side fought a valiant battle at Minehead, only losing by four points. Surprisingly the team lost to Old Redcliffians
Second Team, discipline, or should we say, the lack of it, proving a decisive factor. The match due to be played on October 12 had to be postponed due to the pitch being unplayable following the rain deluge earlier in the week. A special mention of evergreen Alex Knight, prolific scorer over the years, a try in every game so far this season. The Second Team have also had their ups and downs. A hugely satisfying win at local rivals Tor was followed by very heavy defeat at Somerton.
A mention for the Ladies, Wells Angels. At the end of September they put three teams on the field. The Colts, under 18s, have started their season well, with two wins and a walkover under their belts, whilst the mini and junior sections are now in full swing. Anyone, who is thinking of playing rugby, or wants to give it a try, should look at the club website (www.wellsrfc.co.uk), where they will find a full list of contacts for the various sections of the club.
Members, non-members and staff at Fusion’s Wells Leisure Centre teamed up with Fusion centres nationwide to take on a challenge to cycle the circumference of the UK (11,000 miles) to help deliver the National Fitness Day message around the importance of a healthy, active lifestyle. Fusion were delighted that the team at Wells Leisure Centre, two of whom are pictured, managed to cycle 400 miles towards the total.
Keen contest TENNIS
Picture: Chris Challis
Monday, September 23, was the 20th anniversary of The Mendip Hills Hash House Harriers, when 41 members took part in a run from the Wookey Hole Club. To commemorate this milestone runners gathered at a replacement gate on the Mendips, which was christened with cider. The founder member Martin Berkeley cut a cake made by fellow member Pat Challis, and a second cake was supplied by Kai Roth. The evening was finished off with a chilli.
Belrose maintain early momentum FOOTBALL A STRING of cancelled games has done nothing to disrupt the momentum of Belrose. The men in red demolished old foes Coleford in a thoroughly one-sided encounter at the Blue School. It was a case of magnificent seven as the hosts ran riot, the visitors having no answer to the aggressive nature of their opponents. In truth the scoreline could have been double
figures on a day where several players hit the back of the net, taking them safely through. A fortnight later another thrashing was handed out, this time a physical Locking being the side on the wrong end of it. From the first whistle the Bel were superior, stroking the ball around with confidence, finding joy both down the flanks and through the middle. By half time it was virtually contest over as four impressive goals from Jack
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IT was a perfect day for Wells Tennis Club to have the President’s Ladies’ Tournament on Saturday, October 19. Twenty women took part and had a very enjoyable afternoon with ten couples playing each other at a fast and furious rate to play as many games as possible. The deserved winners were Caroline Moule and Geraldine Waddington, beating their nearest opponents by just two games. Tasha Smith, the president, presented them with their shield and also provided a tea for all the players.
New Wells class JUDO
Harris, Danny Morgan, Alex Fudge and Dan Barker put them in total command. Some gloss was added in the second half as Max Culpin notched one to seal Belrose’s place in the next round of the prestigious Somerset Intermediate Cup. Despite having only playing three matches so far, the team have scored 14 goals already, conceding just two. Alex Fudge
A TUESDAY class for Juniors and Seniors is now being run in Wells by Shepton Judo Club. The sessions take place at Wells Cathedral School from 5.30–6.30pm in the Main Sports Hall, and are open to anyone over the age of five who would like to go along and give it a go. For more information, contact club founder and head coach Dianne White on 07940 716737 or find the club on Facebook.
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November 2019
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THE FIEND
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