Wells Voice November 2021

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November 2021 Issue 53

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Call for items to give as gifts Collection started so people who use Foodbank can be given Christmas presents Turn to page 5

Work starts on museum mural Thank you event at Town Hall for city’s Ambassadors – full story on page 18

Moon giving Cathedral visitors ‘wow moment’ VISITORS to Wells Cathedral are being wowed by the Museum of the Moon, the huge celestial artwork that is currently hanging from the roof of the Nave.

Artist Luke Jerram’s moon installation and the associated Festival of the Moon events that have been organised during its stay have proved

major attractions – and Wells Cathedral officials are over the moon at the public response.

Continued on page 3

Artist gathers volunteers to create mural featuring three important historical figures Turn to page 7

Local thoughts on climate issue Discussion of climate change and what can be done, ahead of the CoP26 conference Turn to pages 10-13

‘It’s actually him’ Pair in disbelief as Mick Jagger arrives for music video filming Turn to page 18

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Funambulist Chris Bullzini pictured at Wells Cathedral where he performed on a highwire as part of the Festival of the Moon celebrations

Visitors wowed by moon and festival From page 1 “It’s a big success, I’m really glad we’ve done it,” said Wells Cathedral Chancellor Dr Rob James, who pushed to get the Museum of the Moon to Wells having seen it in Gloucester Cathedral.

“I was delighted, when it came, how well it fitted in the space. What I particularly love is the fact you can walk round the back of the moon and see the bits you can’t see from Earth.”

He added: “It’s been lovely to see visitors having that wow moment as they walk in.”

Schools have been taking pupils to conduct mini science experiments beneath the moon, and visitors can take an astronomy tour around the Cathedral.

“The Cathedral has had a buzzy, busy feel to it,” said Dr James. “It’s also a communal thing, doing things together. It’s important to reconnect a sense of community after what we’ve been through.”

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Wells Cathedral Chancellor Dr Rob James with Helen Sharman Hundreds of people have bought tickets for Festival of the Moon events, which started with a talk by first British astronaut Helen Sharman. Another highlight was a breathtaking highwire routine by Evercreech ropewalker Chris Bullzini.

Events still to come include Wells Theatre Festival’s presentation of A Midsummer Night’s Dream, and a Sanctus Project Moon Suite concert.

More at wellscathedral.org.uk The Museum of the Moon will be at the Cathedral until November 3.

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wellsvoice

November 2021

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

Find us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/ wellsvoice Follow us on Twitter: @wells_voice View every issue online at issuu.com/ wellsvoice A member of the Independent Community News Network

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 edition please contact us by November 10.

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

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

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

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

Feedback is always welcomed – email news@wellsvoice.co.uk. This month 6,900 copies will be distributed around Wells and surrounding villages.

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Tarmacking work has been taking place at Wells Bus Station in Princes Road. Mendip District Council has been carrying out essential repairs to a large portion of the bus station in an operation costing £29,500.

Surgeries will go on, says Wells MP WELLS MP James Heappey has said that he will continue with his constituency surgeries despite the fatal stabbing of MP Sir David Amess while holding a surgery at a church in Leigh-onSea, Essex.

Ali Harbi Ali, 25, was arrested after the attack, and has been charged with the murder of Sir David, and with the preparation of terrorist acts.

The killing has sparked a fresh debate about the safety and security of MPs and their staff.

In his column for this month’s Wells Voice, Mr Heappey says: “I know I speak not only for myself – but also my team – when I say while this attack was meant to result in terror, it will not succeed and I will keep serving the community in any way I can.

“There has been a lot of discussion in recent days about security, safety and even the cancelling of constituency surgeries. I will not do that. I cannot do that.

“As Members of Parliament we sit in libraries, churches and community centres hoping to help constituents who need us. Tweaks to security might

be necessary but nothing can fundamentally change, these surgeries are foundations on which service as an MP is delivered.”

Avon and Somerset Police have been in touch with Mr Heappey to discuss his security arrangements and provide advice.

An Avon and Somerset Police spokesperson said: “Following the horrific incident in Essex in which MP Sir David Amess was killed, officers from Avon and Somerset Police immediately contacted all local MPs to discuss their security arrangements, and to ensure they are aware of advice pertaining to their personal safety and security.

“Officers also spoke to MPs about security arrangements for any events they are planning to attend in the coming days, so appropriate advice could be provided.

“All MPs are encouraged to immediately report any security concerns in order to keep themselves, their staff and members of the public attending surgeries safe.” u Message from the MP, page 38

Find news online at www.wellsvoice.co.uk

Email: sales@wellsvoice.co.uk

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Call to give people in need gift of Christmas WELLS residents are being asked to give the gift of Christmas this year by donating unwanted new or preloved items to people in need.

New and preloved items in excellent condition are being collected by Hannah Wall, and gifts will be distributed to people using Wells Foodbank this Christmas.

Last year Hannah ran a Christmas gifts appeal for Wells Foodbank which was so successful that presents were not only provided for Wells Foodbank, but also for the Salvation Army, Fusion Somerset and YMCA Wells.

Hannah said: “Christmas is all about giving – especially for children. By giving a gift to a child who might not otherwise have much, you are making a huge difference to someone at this special time of year.

Even for adults, it’s a hugely important time of year and

Donations collected for last year’s Christmas appeal

by Hannah Wall, pictured inset right having something to open and feeling that someone cares, really matters. All the presents will be gift wrapped for a personal touch.”

People who have any new, unwanted gifts to re-gift, or any ‘as new’ preloved items, are being asked to drop them off at LA Moore Demolition,

Old Railway Yard, Haybridge, Wells, BA5 1AH. LA Moore are Hannah’s employers and are providing storage for the items in the run up to Christmas.

The deadline for donations is Friday, December 10.

Alternatively, items can be chosen from as little as £2 on an Amazon wish list, which can be

Macallan-Glenlivet Malt liqueur whisky Sold £6200

found by visiting the Foodbank’s Facebook page.

Sue Marland, pastor of Wells Vineyard Church who runs Wells Foodbank, said: “Demand for the Foodbank has risen during the last two years and is nearly six times higher than in 2019.

That means there are a lot of families in the area who will find it almost impossible to celebrate Christmas this year without your help.

“In addition to this year’s Christmas appeal, we are also in need of financial donations which will be used to purchase fresh food stocks and items in short supply.”

Financial donations can be made via the Wells Vineyard Christian Fellowship’s HSBC bank account: 31387170, sort code 40-46-06, reference Wells Vineyard Church. u Gardeners giving veg to Foodbank, page 32

SOLD IN OCTOBER

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Antiques & Collectables Saturday 6th November at 10am

Pair of Georgian wine bottle coasters [Viewing: Thursday 4th November - 10am until 6pm Sold £400

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and Friday 5th November - 10am until 7pm]

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It is also possible to attend viewing days and auctions.

View the fully illustrated catalogues and bid online via www.mendipauctionrooms.co.uk and thesaleroom.com

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November 2021

n NEWS Voters elect two new councillors

A picture of the Reception Class at St Cuthbert’s C of E Academy Infants and Pre-School in Wells

Tree planted at school as part of Queen’s jubilee initiative CHILDREN at a junior school in Wells helped plant a special tree as part of a national initiative to launch the Queen’s Green Canopy, which invites people across the United Kingdom to ‘Plant a Tree for the Jubilee’.

Next year will mark 70 years since HM The Queen came to the throne – the longest reigning monarch in the country’s history.

The Queen’s Green Canopy is gifting 70 Celebration Trees to selected primary schools.

The Lord-Lieutenant of Somerset, Annie Maw, joined children at St Cuthbert’s CofE Junior School for a special ceremony which saw a Pyrus Chanticleer tree planted in the school grounds on October 13, the first tree planting in Somerset as part of the initiative.

HM Lord-Lieutenant of Somerset Annie Maw said: “I am proud and delighted to gift this beautiful Celebration Tree on behalf of Her Majesty the Queen to St Cuthbert’s CofE Junior School as part of the Queen’s Green Canopy initiative. Today’s occasion marks the beginning of this year’s tree planting season, and as someone who is absolutely committed to the project, I very much hope that schools all around Somerset will follow suit enthusiastically and plant their own tree.”

School Headteacher Helen Mullinger said: “We were very

TWO new Wells city councillors were elected at by-elections held on September 30.

Liberal Democrat Amanda Bayley was voted in for the St Cuthbert Ward, and Denise Denis of Wells Independents for the St Thomas Ward.

The full results were: Wells St Cuthbert: Amanda Bayley (Liberal Democrat) 287 – Elected; Sean Sloan (The Conservative Party) 219; Caroline LowndesNorthcott (Wells Independents) 152; Jennifer Williams (Labour Party) 62.

Wells St Thomas’: Denise Denis (Wells Independents) 387 – Elected; Gordon Folkard (Liberal Democrat) 329; Sarah Sloan (The Conservative Party) 181.

Boutique guest house proposal THE Sherston Inn in Priory Road, Wells, could become a boutique guest house with a swimming pool and gym.

A planning application has been submitted to Mendip District Council to turn the hotel into a five-bedroom guest house with residential accommodation for the proprietor.

The proposals also seek the demolition of the former skittle alley and its replacement with a new building that would house a gym, swimming pool, garden room and office space.

Event raises £4k for Heads Up Some of those gathered for the ceremony to plant a tree at St Cuthbert’s CofE Junior School; inset, the tree with the tree guard and plaque in place honoured indeed to be asked as one of only 70 schools in the country to be gifted a tree to celebrate the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee. The idea of planting trees to benefit future generations has struck a chord with our children. They have been very excited about this event and it has strengthened and focused their thoughts on how we make our school greener

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and more energy efficient. The tree stands very proudly in a prominent position in the school grounds and it is something that we will look after and treasure for years to come.”

The Queen’s Green Canopy is encouraging all schools to get involved in planting jubilee trees, with free tree packs available through the Woodland Trust and The Conservation Volunteers.

A FUNDRAISING event at the Wookey Hole Inn in October raised £4,000 for South Horrington-based mental health charity Heads Up. There was music, an auction, a raffle, a pig roast – and Wookey Hole Inn licensee Richard Davey and pub regular Jed Tatman, who works at Wookey Hole Caves, had their shaggy hair and beards shaved off.

Heads Up service director Bridget Harvey said: “We cannot thank you wonderful people enough.”

Email: sales@wellsvoice.co.uk

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Work starts on significant new mural DURING lockdown a lot has been going on in Wells and Mendip Museum. Volunteers have been painting and reorganising rooms and the gardens at the back have been transformed.

At the far end of the gardens there is a large blank wall where next year a ceramic mural is going to appear. This will depict Bishop Beckynton, Dean William Turner and Herbert Balch with relevant background detail. These men all contributed significantly to the City of Wells as it developed through the ages.

Philippa Threlfall, Museum Trustee, designer of the mural and organiser of the project, has gathered a group of 28 volunteers to make the mural under her direction. She says: “It is to be a real community piece of work, with everyone contributing with the modelling and the various technical procedures involved, learning the process as

Philippa Threlfall, fourth right, with the first group of volunteers as they start work in her studios on the Bishop Beckynton mural Picture: Ann Cook it proceeds. The final figures will be about 5ft high, and the whole mural about 9ft long.”

On October 11 the mural took its first steps to reality in Philippa’s Black Dog studios in Tor Street. A group of eight scaled up from Philippa’s rough design, and transferred the

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drawing onto slabbed out wet clay. They practiced modelling and texturing clay surfaces and each member chose an area of the Bishop on which to focus.

When the modelling stage is complete the group will learn how to cut up the clay into smaller pieces suitable for firing,

then tracing and numbering the pieces. Once dried carefully and ‘biscuit’ fired at 980C, the pieces will be ready for glazing.

As soon as the Bishop is drying on the shelves, the next group of eight or so will start work on Dean Turner and his beautiful herbals. Lastly the third group will model up Herbert Balch in his Mendip cave.

Glazing will begin, probably in the new year, with colour introduced, and more firings.

Ann Cook, a professional photographer, has agreed to photograph each stage of the process for educational and publicity purposes.

Philippa adds: “The first session went very well. So, on we go. Ceramic mural making is a slow but exciting and rewarding process which will well outlast all our lives if allowed to do so. I am hoping that the whole group of about 28 people will really enjoy making this piece of history.”

Email: news@wellsvoice.co.uk

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Two music therapy donations

CITY of Wells Lions Club recognises the importance of music therapy in communication and engagement with people living with dementia.

It has been found that the positive effects of music can assist in improving general attention, thinking, memory and speech skills. Additionally, agitation and depression may be reduced for some people.

Thus, the club was delighted to present two cheques for £300 in October, one to Philip Welch for Heads Up in South Horrington and the other to Claire Chettoe for the Lawrence Centre in Wells. These donations will cover the cost of provision of a number of sessions in both venues.

The club has also made progress in organising the Tree of Light Project.

A large Christmas tree will be erected in the grounds of The Bishop’s Palace early in

Alan Sanderson, President of the City of Wells Lions Club, hands cheques to Claire Chettoe, representing the Lawrence Centre, and Philip Welch, representing Heads Up December with the help of the Palace gardeners.

The tree will give members of the local community who

have lost their loved ones an opportunity to sponsor a light in their memory. Furthermore, a dedication ceremony will take place and the names of all the loved ones will be read out, the event videoed and a link to a website provided.

Application forms, which include details of how to make a donation (minimum amount of £5), will soon be available in outlets around Wells.

Additionally online donations can be made at https:// cafdonate.cafonline.org/18290 When the tree has been placed in position stars will be hung, each with the name of the loved one, and a remembrance card sent to the donor.

Tickets are still available for the Unravelling Wilburys Concert that the club is organising at St Thomas’ Church on November 26. They cost £15 each, a bar will be available and doors open at 7pm.

No start yet on required work WORK on the remaining jobs at Vicarage Fields in Wells is yet to be started, despite developers Crest Nicholson saying a month ago that a start was expected “in the next two weeks”.

It is now due to start “as soon as possible”.

Roads and paths need to be finished, and landscaping and tree planting is due to be carried out, and a play area installed.

A spokesperson from Crest Nicholson told Wells Voice: “We are continuing to work closely with the local authority and management company on a programme for the completion of the remaining works which are due to start as soon as possible.

“We appreciate the patience of residents at Vicarage Fields while these works are carried out.”

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wellsvoice

November 2021

n NEWS

ELLS D EW N TA L

wells in mosaic

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MP ‘so impressed at brilliance’ of mosaic options, and in any other way I can. I very much look forward to following the progress of this great project and thank Ruth and Ian for having me to visit the gallery.”

Ruth said that she was delighted to have his support, and a spokesperson for the WiM support team added: “The mosaic will have national or even international significance, as there is nothing quite like it anywhere, and we appreciate Mr Heappey’s enthusiastic support.”

Ruth is also pleased to be able to open her studio again to visitors after working alone there for the last 18 months. To arrange a visit, email contact@ wellsinmosaic.org More photos and opportunities to sponsor elements of the mosaic can be seen at www.wellsinmosaic.org

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Wells Chamber of Commerce and Tourism held its October meeting in the studio of artist Ruth Ames-White, where she and her husband Ian showed members how the Wells in Mosaic project is progressing. Also in attendance were Richard Jones of the Strawberry Line East Group and James North of Mendip District Council.

D E N TA L Got News? Call 07906 499655 WELLS

PRIORY ROAD

James Heappey and Ruth Ames-White in the Wells in Mosaic studio

WELLS MP James Heappey was a recent visitor to the studio of mosaic artist Ruth Ames-White.

The project she is working on – Wells in Mosaic – has reached the halfway mark across its sixmetre diameter and many of the famous landmarks in the city can already be seen in beautifully depicted detail.

Mr Heappey said: “I think I was the same as so many people who have seen the progress of this amazing project in being so impressed at the intricacy and brilliance of the whole thing.

“I hope that the eventual place of theW mosaic E Lis Lsomewhere S extremely prominent so that those who live here and visit here can enjoy this piece, which showcases all the wonderful parts of Wells.

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November 2021

n NEWS

Potential solutions to global warming The CoP26 conference, a global gathering to discuss ways of tackling climate change, takes place in Glasgow in November.

Here, Wells resident Peter Upton suggests some of the measures that could be considered.

DUE to global warming and deforestation, large areas of the earth have become droughtridden scrublands with their people starving and fleeing to Europe and the USA as economic refugees.

Meanwhile, the ice caps are melting and the sea levels are rising throughout the world, threatening to wipe out whole communities. Yet if we were to use these rising sea levels positively, we can heal and regenerate the world.

If we diverted a substantial portion of the total money that the world’s governments donate to foreign aid (somewhere above 221 billion American dollars in 2019) to building large-scale solar-driven desalination plants along the coastline of Africa, Asia and South America, we can use this solar energy supply to pump clean drinking water inland to the 700,000,000 people who suffer water scarcity every day (DFID 2020).

Example: The Claude Bud non-solar desalination plant in California opened in 2015, cost one billion dollars, and supplies 190 million litres of water per day.

The water can be stored in geologically suitable systems and used to nurture billions of trees in new forests and old degraded

The ice caps are melting and the sea levels are rising forests planted by employed local people. The trees must be broadleafed and of many varieties so they are not susceptible to a single disease or insect invasion.

With increasing forest fires due to global warming, fire breaks must be included, but when global warming has been brought under control, these can be planted with trees.

This clean water can also irrigate drought-ridden agricultural areas, with fruit trees planted to provide extra food and shade for the people and their crops and to bind the soil together. With initial seed grants and advice, this will help to save the lives of the 3,100,000 children who die every single year from the effects of malnutrition (UNICEF 2018).

All of this is possible while lowering the rising sea levels

‘The new forests will lock in carbon while the broad leaf coverage will help to reverse global warming by reflecting the sun’s rays back out of the atmosphere’ that are threatening so many communities.

The new forests will lock in carbon while the broad leaf coverage will help to reverse global warming by reflecting the sun’s rays back out of the atmosphere, and at a certain point in this process a critical mass of vegetation will have been reached which will put up enough moisture into the sky through leaf evaporation

to form clouds to also bounce the heat of the sun back out of the atmosphere, helping to reduce world temperatures while carrying rain water to new areas in a further regenerating multiplier effect.

One of the advantages of this scheme is that once countries agree to prioritise this goal, they can work in co-operation or in competition, yet the whole Earth and especially the poorest people on it will benefit.

Scientists are increasingly worried. The Gulf Stream water current, controlling much of the world’s climate, is becoming unstable. It relies upon high salinity water sinking and propelling the current along but melting glaciers are lowering salinity levels in the ocean regions where this takes place, weakening the current.

All desalination plants create high salinity waste water from the process. With the move away from petrol and oil there will be a surplus of oil tankers that could be re-commissioned to carry this waste. They could be sited some way off shore with the high salinity water being pumped directly from the solar desalination plants into the tankers, and using NASA oceanic salinity maps, carried to the ocean areas where it is needed, to be dispersed by surface spraying, to stabilise the Gulf Stream and world climates. n For a fuller version of this article, including protection of marine life solutions and deforestation, email petereupton@outlook.com

Molly Podiatry / Chiropody COMFORTABLE FEET Molly

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wellsvoice

November 2021

11

n NEWS

Buzz of cycling activity at event to educate on eBikes IT was a rather inclement Sunday morning, but one end of the Cathedral Green was a buzz of cycling activity – it was the Sustainable Wells eBike Extravaganza.

“There are some big advantages to using an eBike,” said Tom Ronan, who suggested the extravaganza after seeing the success of a similar event in Frome.

“We wanted to provide people with an easy way to find out more about eBikes, and the opportunity to try them out in the beautiful surroundings of the Cathedral Green. We’re grateful to Ecomove and The Electric Bike Shop, the two bike stores who participated, bringing a

Part of the scene at the Sustainable Wells eBike Extravaganza on Cathedral Green wide range of bikes to try and all their knowledge. Plus of course the Cathedral for welcoming the event and helping with the arrangements.”

It was the first Sustainable Wells event for volunteer Mathilda Janicot, who has just taken over the role of facilitator

Vigils being held to express climate fears IF people think about Quakers, they may connect them with silence and simplicity. Some of that silence and simplicity will be seen on Wells Cathedral Green between 11am and noon on Saturday, October 30, and Saturday, November 6, when Mid Somerset Quakers will hold a peaceful vigil to express concern about the climate emergency.

“The United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres described the climate emergency as ‘a Code Red for Humanity’,” said Sarah Briton from the Wells Quaker Meeting.

“Many of us are doing the best we can to safeguard the planet for future generations in whatever way we can. However we know that the most effective mechanisms for securing change are bold national and international government action.

“That’s what we want to see coming from CoP26. We can of course write to our MPs and other government ministers, but it is good to stand up for what you believe and that’s what we’ll be doing on the Cathedral Green.”

The Conference of the Parties (or CoP26 as it is known) meets in Glasgow from November 1-12.

Decisions made at CoP26 will

for this local organisation which has been going strong for nearly 20 years.

“It was great to see so much interest,” said Mathilda.

“Having a regular Active Transport event that promotes all sorts of low carbon travel is something we are very excited about. Of course, much of the work to bring down our collective carbon footprint needs to be led by national government initiatives, so we are hoping that the CoP26 meetings in November will really make a difference on all fronts.

“Nevertheless, there are things like ensuring cycle and pedestrian friendly routes in and around Mendip that are down to local politicians and local people.

There’s plenty to do.”

The next Sustainable Wells Monthly Gathering will include discussions on eco-housing with the opportunity to look at just what a net zero carbon new-build could look like. All are welcome to attend this on Monday, November 8, from 7pm-9pm in the Indictment Room at Wells Town Hall. For more details, email sustwells@gmail.com

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Introducing Annie...

Elaine Allen and Kim Chenoweth with one of the Mid Somerset Quaker banners be crucial to limiting the global temperature rise. If current practices continue without change then it is estimated the world will be on target for a 3C increase well before the end of this century.

A 3C increase will, for example, result in significant sea level rises – something that will have an impact on a low-lying county like Somerset.

“If you want to join in either or both of the vigils you can just turn up on the day,” Sarah added. “We’re thankful for the support of Wells Cathedral and that of other faith groups but the vigils are open to anyone to join. Feel free to bring your own placard.”

For any further information, email wellsvigilscop26@gmail. com

Got News? Call 07906 499655

ANNIE is a home bird who loves a cuddle. She is happy to wander round her patch but doesn’t stray far and will happily join you in the garden to supervise. Of course, being part Tortie, she sets her own rules and comes back when she thinks she will.

She has come a long way since she was fostered and has learned to love and trust and play. However, due to Covid restrictions, she hasn’t had social interaction with anyone other than her foster family, so it will take time and patience to settle her into her new home while she gets used to new people and surroundings.

We recommend that she is the only cat in the household and needs to be in a family without young children. She is not an aggressive girl so will need to

be able to access home easily if she gets scared when outside.

Finally, she needs a home well away from busy roads in a quiet area with her own garden to explore.

Please complete the online application form at cats.org.uk/ glastonbury if Annie could be a part of your household.

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

Email: news@wellsvoice.co.uk

wellsvoice

12

November 2021

n NEWS

How to counter climate anxiety in young Angela Terry, Wells-based environmental scientist and founder of climate action project One Home, discusses how to help children feel more positive THE news keeps coming of more heatwaves, droughts, floods and all the frightening consequences this has for the planet and those who inhabit it. In a survey last month (September 2021) led by the University of Bath, 10,000 young people and children were asked about climate change.

Many said that they feel they have no future, with threequarters saying they think the future is frightening. More than half said they think that humanity is doomed.

For those of us with children, we have an opportunity (and a responsibility) to encourage them to turn those feelings of fear, anger and frustration into action and empowerment.

Climate anxiety is a natural consequence of an increasingly gloomy-looking climate forecast, but it’s important that we don’t let it overwhelm children or us while there’s still important climate-saving work to be done.

Here are six ways to help our children feel empowered: 1. No one is perfect but together we can act It has been repeatedly shown that taking action, however small, helps to ease anxiety. And once you start, it has a ripple effect in your own life and on those around you. Being part of the solution is a great motivator.

But sometimes we have to use the car or buy a plastic-wrapped lettuce. It’s far better that many people do it imperfectly than just a few people do it perfectly.

2. Keep their social real Social media can have a huge effect on our mood. Exposure to a barrage of scary statistics and

gloomy predictions about the planet is worrying for everyone.

Stay informed, so follow accounts that offer a positive, solutionsbased outlook on the climate crisis. @ouronehome, @zero. waste.collective, @thegreenhub_ and @lowimpactmovement are great places to start.

3. Watch the web Make sure they are looking at websites that talk about climate change in an unthreatening way.

NASA’s Climate Kids website has been designed specifically for children to navigate themselves, and has a wide range of resources including videos and games.

4. Accentuate the positive Share positive environmental stories as a reminder that change is possible. For example, the pandemic showed us nature’s incredible ability to regenerate.

The lockdowns saw a widespread fall in pollution and a resurgence of wildlife. And an electric car in September, Tesla, outsold the petrol or diesel competitors.

5. Make joint green family spending decisions Discuss which products your family buy because there are sustainable alternatives

for everything. If the green alternative is more expensive, ask your children if they would be happy to go with something else lower cost in order to pay for it. Give them some purchasing power and show how it impacts the family budget.

6. Help them find their community Joining climate-focused community and action groups, such as litter picks or tree planting projects, can be a huge help. The sense of shared belonging and concern can be very comforting, and working towards tangible solutions with others can give young people a greater sense of control in otherwise overwhelming circumstances.

Above all, it’s really important to keep conversations going and encourage your children to find ways to process what they are feeling – whether that be a journal or art or just having a good cry occasionally. We need to allow all the myriad feelings to be heard and shared. n For more information on taking steps to live a greener lifestyle, go to onehome.org.uk

We can make difference together if we all do our bit First city council Sustainability Officer Emma Jakins introduces herself and discusses her role MY name is Emma and I am the newly posted Sustainability Officer for the Wells City Council.

I am thrilled to be working to

make our beautiful city a more sustainable place to live.

I have had a passion for nature all of my life and I enjoy finding ways to reduce our impact on the environment.

Over the next couple of years, I will be identifying ways that we

To advertise, contact Andy on 01749 675157

as a city can reduce our carbon footprint, promoting healthy and sustainable living practices, and encouraging others to share their knowledge of sustainability topics.

I understand that at times, the threats of climate change seem daunting and the situation feels out of our control, but if we all do our part, big or small, we will make a difference together. I hope to make those changes seem less intimidating by highlight ways that we can live more sustainably at home without drastically changing the way we live (or spending a small fortune!).

Some of the most important things we can do are reducing the amount of food we waste, use our cars less for shorter journeys, insulate our homes and reduce the amount of good items going to waste.

Thus far, I have been in awe of the passion and

knowledge displayed by the people I have met in Wells. The strong community spirit and determination to make Wells a sustainable place to live, work and visit is, I believe, the perfect combination to achieve great things. It has never been more important for us to come together and to ensure our beautiful planet will remain beautiful for future generations. u From the Town Hall, page 33

Email: sales@wellsvoice.co.uk

wellsvoice

November 2021

13

n NEWS

Taking local action in worrying times Avalon Community Energy is a social enterprise encouraging the move towards a more sustainable low-carbon future in Wells and the wider midSomerset area. Chair Stewart Crocker explains more WE are living in anxious times, that’s for sure. News reports from around the world connect us to devastating floods, wildfires and hurricanes. Lest we allow ourselves to distance ourselves from the impact of these events, the rapid spread of the Covid-19 virus is a constant reminder of the interconnectedness of our world.

Against this backdrop, we must all be hoping that the outcome from the conference in Glasgow will commit our political leaders to Nationally

Determined Contributions which will take us firmly on a route to a carbon-neutral future. This is critical because only by means of a rapid transition away from fossil fuels to harness clean energy, such as solar and wind power, can future generations, and indeed all life on earth, have any realistic prospect of a sustainable future.

Let’s face it, our current reliance on oil and gas is not doing us any favours. The immediate concern for many is how to cope with the disruptions to supplies. Energy companies are going bust. The fact that gas prices are soaring is deeply worrying, most especially for the 5,000 households across Mendip who are already living in fuel poverty.

Although resolving these

‘While worldwide policy is debated on, here in mid-Somerset we’ll continue to chip away at our emissions for more sustainable prospects’ anxieties at a policy level is beyond our direct influence, we can all respond in a practical way by doing whatever we can to drive down our own carbon

emissions. For example, more of us are switching to a green energy tariff or installing solar PV or a heat pump. At Avalon Community Energy, we seek to empower local involvement in a just transition to a zero carbon energy system. We achieve this by solar energy generation projects and by providing grants through our Community Benefit Fund. This fund is already helping Mendip residents in greatest need to keep warm and reduce their fuel bills, through loft insulation, curtains, draught excluders and dehumidifiers.

We’re a small but mighty organisation and welcome new members as well as expressions of interest in joining both our board of volunteer directors and committee members for our Community Benefit Fund. While worldwide policy is debated and hopefully, agreed on for a carbon-neutral future, here in mid-Somerset we’ll continue to chip away at our emissions for more sustainable prospects.

For more information, visit avaloncommunityenergy.org.uk

Council joins united effort THE MORTGAGE CENTRE to combat climate change MENDIP District Council has joined other climate-aligned councils across the country in signing the UK100 Net Zero Pledge.

UK100 is a network of local government leaders committed to playing their part in the global effort to tackle climate change.

It is pushing for more powers and resources from central government to enable the councils to take ambitious and rapid climate action, and so ensure the country meets its legally-bound target.

Councillor Ros Wyke, Leader of Mendip District Council, said: “Signing up to the UK100 means we will do everything in our power to reach net zero emissions in a way that benefits our communities with new jobs and skills.

“We are closer to the people who live and work in our district, so we have a better understanding of their needs.

We see the challenges they

face and we recognise our responsibility to tackle the climate emergency and protect our environment.

“Being part of a wider network will enable us to share knowledge, collaborate and be advocates for change. We need to work together for a better future for all.”

Councillor Tom Ronan, Portfolio Holder for Strategic Policy and Climate Change, said: “I am so pleased to see Mendip join the UK100.

It’s an important step in our plan to combat the impact of climate change. It gives us the opportunity to work with other local authorities, it amplifies the voice of our rural communities, and ensures we help to shape national policy to tackle the huge environmental problems we all face.

“We will use this Pledge and membership of UK100, along with the momentum from CoP26, to demonstrate the power of what can be done when we work together.”

Got News? Call 07906 499655

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wellsvoice

14

November 2021

n NEWS A picture of the Portway Annexe

by Wells artist Chris Lee

Preparations for new role Annexe will play in city life Councillors and Joint Project Leaders Adrian I’Anson and Louis Agabani provide an update about the situation with the Portway Annexe WELLS City Council has been busy preparing for the new role it will play after completion of the purchase of the building at the end of the Portway, formerly known as the Somerset Skills and Adult Learning Centre.

Through a comprehensive public consultation which has run over the summer, individuals were invited to comment on the future uses of the building with the aim of running it as a

community centre for the people of Wells. The Portway Annexe Project Team organised an open day event, delivered an online questionnaire, and a hard copy of the questionnaire was sent to all households in Wells.

Although we are a few days away from the full analysis of the consultation, it is clear that there is an overall groundswell of support for this venture.

From the survey, 78 per cent would like the building to provide opportunities for further education/enterprise training and skills; and 76 per cent viewed “opportunities to improve the lives of others and thus to

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Music at the Annexe THE Wells Contemporary Music Centre team have met the Town Clerk and Town Hall Manager to share ideas on how music activities could be incorporated into the proposed community hub. A specification for isolating sound is being prepared for costing. David Miller Architects have agreed to do this on a pro-bono basis. For more information, go to wellsrocks.org

general community development in Wells” as an important consideration.

The council is expected to complete the purchase by the end of the year and will embark on the work necessary prior to opening which will be at a launch event, to be advertised once the works have been completed A cafe in the building would be a good focal point and the council would be interested to discuss options with both service users and providers. Contact details are below.

The original Portway Annexe Project Team has met on several occasions, and reported to the City Council Portway Annexe Committee, with invaluable support from a project planner and experts on consultation.

As the city council committee system is changing to a more streamlined system, the Portway Annexe Project team will morph into a larger group which will include representatives from the community, together with user groups and organisations.

Wells City Council’s vision for the building is: The Portway Annexe (PA) will be an important centre within the community for people of all ages to meet, learn, create and have fun.

The PA will provide resources and spaces that enable social and cultural community interaction, alongside the development of education, skills and enterprise.

As part of this vision, the city council aims to ensure the PA is self-sustaining, and socially and environmentally responsible.

Adrian I’Anson a.ianson@wells.gov.uk Louis Agabani l.agabani@wells.gov.uk

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Email: sales@wellsvoice.co.uk

wellsvoice

November 2021

15

n NEWS

Free car parking in run-up to Christmas FREE car parking will be available in all Mendip District Council-owned pay and display car parks for one week during the holiday period, from Saturday, December 18, until Friday, December 24.

The district council is suspending charges so that visitors and businesses can enjoy free parking during the run-up to Christmas.

The district council is suspending car parking charges at times There will also be free parking all day on Saturday, January 1, to support drivers who park vehicles in car parks on New Year’s Eve to use alternative and safe methods of transport to get home.

A fee-free day is planned to support Small Business Saturday too, at selected car parks. Anyone

visiting the area for Small Business Saturday, on December 4, will find charges suspended at Union Street in Wells, as well as Cranhill Road in Street, St John’s car park in Glastonbury, Great Ostry in Shepton Mallet and the Cattle Market in Frome.

Councillor Simon Carswell, Portfolio Holder for Economic Development, said: “Mendip District Council is delighted to be offering free festive parking to help local businesses, residents and visitors. This will be the seventh time your district council has been able to make such an offer.

“After the past 18 months of Covid-19, which is still impacting on our communities, I’m sure everyone will welcome this gesture, take advantage of it, and support our Mendip traders.”

Residents are asked to note that although parking is free, all other terms and conditions of car parking within the relevant car parks remain.

Motorists are advised to check the time limits. ‘Free parking’ may not mean ‘free parking all day’. Maximum time limits still apply in all short stay car parks, and penalty charges will be issued for those who breach the conditions.

Advent Windows to appear again PEOPLE who were in St Thomas Street last Christmas Eve will know how vibrant it was with the buzz of families enjoying the Advent windows in the street.

This year it is planned to repeat this now traditional warm and fuzzy feeling by creating St Thomas Street Advent Windows 2021.

St Thomas Street Advent Windows will start on December 1, with a new window being ‘lit’ each day at 4pm. Maps will be available on posters in the street to enable visitors to find the windows each day, as well as on the website and on the Facebook and Instagram pages.

“I love the variety in the windows, from simple designs to old favourites returning, to new and artistic designs. It’s a real

A St Thomas Street Nativity scene community pull together,” said organiser Shirley Offer.

During any St Thomas Street event, it is always regarded as important that the wider community benefits. Any money donated through participating Advent Windows letter boxes will go to the Elim Connect Centre in Wells that supports a wide range of vulnerable people.

Got News? Call 07906 499655

St Cuthbert’s Church will once again be adorned with Nativity sets

Return of church’s Nativity Festival THE much acclaimed Nativity Festival is returning to St Cuthbert’s Church, Wells, in December.

The layout will be a little different but once again the church will be adorned with Nativity sets from around the world.

Angels, lights, music, colour, children’s activities, a raffle and seasonal refreshments will add to

the ‘feelgood factor’ as Christmas approaches. Once again, members of the community are invited to display their treasured crib sets and angels.

The event will take place from Friday, December 10, to Sunday, December 12, from 10am-4pm on the Friday and Saturday, with an 11.30am start on the Sunday.

For further details, contact Jill: 01749 675477.

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Email: news@wellsvoice.co.uk

wellsvoice

16

November 2021

n NEWS

Big response to new community awards A LARGE number of nominations have been submitted for the new community awards that have been launched by Wells City Council.

The City of Wells Awards aim to recognise the contribution shown by individuals, groups and businesses to the service of the local community.

The first winners will be announced at a gala ceremony at the Town Hall on Saturday, December 4, when they will each receive an awards memento.

Councillor Jasmine Browne, who came up with the idea for the awards, said that judges will have a hard task choosing the winners, but urged people to keep nominating.

“It has been really

Councillor Jasmine Browne holding an example of an awards trophy encouraging to see the number of nominations that are already coming in. I have been so pleased by the response,” she said.

“Please keep voting. We would especially welcome

more nominations in the Youth category.”

The full list of categories is: n City of Wells Citizen of the Year Award: A person who has given their time to undertake work in the community. n City of Wells Youth Award: Presented to someone aged 18 or under, who has given their time to support the community. n City of Wells Business Award: A business which has supported or worked with the community. n City of Wells Community Award: For a voluntary organisation delivering a service to the community. n City of Wells Sustainability Award: An

individual/business/organisation that has demonstrated a proactive approach to environmental sustainability. n City of Wells ‘Extra Mile’ Award: Given to someone who has gone above and beyond in providing a service to the community.

Nominations can be made by completing the form below and dropping it into the box at the reception desk at Wells Town Hall, or submitting a form online via: https://www.surveymonkey. co.uk/r/wellsawards The closing date for nominations is Sunday, November 7, 2021.

A panel of councillors will consider the nominations and decide on the winners.

Wells City Council

City of Wells Awards – Nomination Form

‘Honouring people who make a difference’

Nominations are limited to one per award, per Wells resident. In order to ensure this, we will require Your surname: _____________________________________ Postcode: ______________________ Your nominations (you do not need to nominate in every category) l City of Wells Citizen of the Year Award: Name of nominee:_________________________ Reason for nominating:____________________________________ l City of Wells Youth Award: Name of nominee:_________________________ Reason for nominating:____________________________________ l City of Wells Business Award: Name of nominee:_________________________ Reason for nominating:____________________________________ l City of Wells Community Award: Name of nominee:_________________________ Reason for nominating:____________________________________ l City of Wells Sustainability Award: Name of nominee:_________________________ Reason for nominating:____________________________________ l City of Wells ‘Extra Mile’ Award: Name of nominee:_________________________ Reason for nominating:____________________________________ If your nominees are selected, we may need to contact you either by Telephone or Email for further information.

Please fill in the sections below. If you do not wish to be contacted, simply leave these sections blank.

Telephone:____________________________ Email:_______________________________________ Please return to reception at Wells Town Hall or submit your form online via: surveymonkey.co.uk/r/wellsawards

To advertise, contact Andy on 01749 675157

Email: sales@wellsvoice.co.uk

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wellsvoice

18

November 2021

n NEWS

Mick Jagger’s arrival leaves pair pinching themselves

Event to thank Ambassadors

By Emma James FORMER Wells Blue School pupil, Harry Steele, 22, still finds it hard to believe that not long ago he was filming Chris Jagger and his rather famous brother Mick as they performed Chris’ new song, Anyone Seen My Heart.

Harry and his friend Oska Zaky, 21, were asked to create the video to accompany the song which combines pop, soul and ska. With Oska directing and Harry behind the camera, the video opens with a shot of the two brothers sitting side by side playing their guitars and chatting about the music.

Harry says: “We were on the way to London and we were treating it like a normal production and then Mick walked in and we were like, wow, it’s actually him. We sat down for a meal afterwards and couldn’t believe what had just happened. It was a really cool experience.”

The video has been featured on ITV’s Lorraine and in Rolling Stone, and was released on YouTube in September.

Since finishing his Diploma in Film Production at Bridgwater College, Harry says he has learned a lot. He has undertaken small film projects, created a website and Instagram page and taught himself to ‘youtube’.

He was also asked to film a documentary in episodes showing Ruth Ames-White at work on the Wells Mosaic.

Harry Steele (also seen inset left) films Chris and Mick Jagger performing Introduced by friends of friends, Harry explains that the partnership with Oska is proving to be fruitful, with each of them having their own strengths. Oska’s focus is on music production, content development and direction, whilst Harry concentrates on everything to do with filming.

The pair set up their own film and music production company, UNTHNKBL, in November 2020 and plan to launch its

website officially in the new year.

They have already undertaken several exciting projects together including creating the hugely popular Christmas video for Wells duo The Portraits, made during lockdown.

Harry says: “This year’s been pretty great for us. We are planning to focus on music videos but also hope to branch out to commercials. We have a few exciting things in the pipeline.”

n LETTERS Tending garden has been real pleasure IT is with great regret I will no longer tend the garden for the residents of Wells Almshouse Trust – the private communal gardens behind St Cuthbert’s Church. I would like to thank them all for their support, interest and friendly co-operation throughout the years since 2017 when I first

THE Wells Ambassadors were formed six months ago but never had the chance to meet and greet each other.

Their co-ordinator Ross Young put this right by asking the Mayor of Wells to hold a reception in the Town Hall to thank them for the sterling work they are doing in meeting and greeting visitors to the city.

It also gave Ross, whose idea it was to have volunteer ‘Meeters and Greeters’ in the city centre, the opportunity to show off the award Wells received for Coach Friendly Destination UK he collected at the national Coach Tourism Awards in September – the first destination to receive it two years running.

“I am immensely proud of the work that the Ambassadors are doing and the feedback from both visitors and locals has been most encouraging,” said Ross.

“We will continue through to Christmas and then take a wellearned break until March 2022.

“Our thanks go to the Mayor, Councillor Philip Welch, for his hospitality and whole-hearted support for the work we do.”

Panto tickets go on sale TICKETS have gone on sale for Cinderella, this year’s pantomime at Wells Little Theatre.

The show dates are December 11, 12, 14, 15, 16, 17 and 18.

Tickets are £14 (£11) available from www.wellslittletheatre.com Tickets will also be on sale at the box office from 45 minutes before each performance.

Email news@wellsvoice.co.uk volunteered. In particular when the garden proudly picked up the Wells Gold Cup in 2019.

I have enjoyed working all weathers, all seasons, organising the tasks for occasional Heads Up visits and have worked through the Covid crisis by attending early hours from 6.30am, when light allows, in order to leave the site before residents need the space.

Naturally during the pandemic, there have been no public Open

To advertise, contact Andy on 01749 675157

Days. This was regrettable as the garden looked its very best in summer 2020 in my opinion.

I volunteered to tend the garden in 2017 after attending an Open Day. The residents had managed to maintain the garden wonderfully since Wilf Beer, one of the residents who had cared for it for 25 years, was no longer able to do so. I have tended Bubwith and Stills/Willes and Bricks gardens for four years without a break. I continue my

regular gardening career – and have taken on a couple of new projects – the maintenance of a friend’s allotment and working with a local community project who made contact through Wells Community Network, whom I support. I look forward to keeping in touch with the wonderful residents of Wells Almshouses, whom I regard as friends. Thank you to you all.

Christine Costello By email

Email: sales@wellsvoice.co.uk

wellsvoice

November 2021

19

n NEWS

£2m appeal to fund organ refurbishment AN appeal will be launched in November for funds to fully refurbish and improve the organ in Wells Cathedral.

The Friends of Wells Cathedral are seeking £2 million over the next five years so that repair work and enhancements can be carried out. The Grand Organ Appeal launch will take place in the Cathedral on Thursday, November 18, with a special evening of music and conversation that will feature a recital by a number of organists.

David Morgan-Hewitt, Chairman of the Appeal, said: “The evening of November 18 will mark an important moment for Wells Cathedral and its community as we formally launch the campaign to restore and improve the Cathedral organ for the next generation. We very much hope that anyone who would like to find out more about how they can support the appeal will be able to join us.”

All 5,000 existing pipes in the Wells Cathedral organ will be removed for repair, cleaning or replacement, and it is also intended to add a few more pipes to increase the range and interest of sounds available Sticking notes, hissing sounds, mechanical malfunctions on particular stops and delays in the reaction to the keyboards are all regular occurrences with

the organ which the organists try their best to disguise.

In 2021 an overhaul of the air supply had to be undertaken, funded by The Friends. Despite

the success of this project, the number of other mechanical failures continues to grow and the Friends say that it is now increasingly urgent that in order to avoid a catastrophic failure, the full refurbishment of the instrument is begun.

The primary objective is to recondition the organ by removing all 5,000 existing pipes for repair, cleaning or replacement and to overhaul the console, the pedals and the stops. The vision also includes plans to deliver a significant enhancement to its musical performance.

To attend the event on November 18, email organappeal@wellsfriends.org with your name, the name of your guest (if any) and your full postal address so that a formal invitation can be sent.

For more information on the appeal visit the appeal website at wellsgrandorganappeal.org.uk

Sc h fro ola m rsh Ye ip ar s 7

Got News? Call 07906 499655

Email: news@wellsvoice.co.uk

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wellsvoice

November 2021

n NEWS

21

Wine Monthly with Bishop’s Eye

What to drink over Christmas?

Sara Harkness with her loyalty league shopping vouchers

Loyalty win delights local shops devotee ANOTHER lucky winner of the Wells Loyalty League draws has received their prize vouchers.

Sara Harkness was handed five £10 vouchers outside Amba in Wells Market Place, where she is a regular customer.

“I am so grateful to have received the vouchers,” said Sara.

“The shops in Wells are lovely. My favourite shop at the moment is probably Whiting’s as we are renovating a property. If you need something you can be almost certain that Whiting’s will have it.

“In general all the shops in Wells are a joy. It is fantastic.”

To take part in the loyalty

scheme, customers collect a loyalty card from participating retailers, who stamp it with the value of the purchase.

When there are £100 worth of stamps on the card it should be dropped into a box at the Town Hall.

Completed cards are drawn regularly and the winners given £50 of vouchers to spend in shops run by league members.

The revamped loyalty league was launched almost a year ago to reward loyal shoppers and help the retailers of Wells.

The scheme is sponsored by accountants Chalmers HB and Wells City Council.

Wells loyalty scheme members Amba, Basil Powell Shoes, Bishop’s Eye, Brownes Garden Centre, Gallery Jewellers, London House, Mansfield Opticians, Microbitz Computers, Millicans Eye Centre, Peter Douglas of Wells, Protec, Rock House Dental Practice, Roly’s Fudge Pantry, Ron Thompson Carpets, Runway, Scribbles, Studleys Jewellers, The Changing Room, The Crown, The Grape and The Good, The Laundry, Whiting & Son. To join the scheme, contact Robert Powell (robert.powell2@btconnect.com), Rob Bevan (rob@protec-wells.com) or Louis Agabani (louis@bishopseye.com)

Plan for homes at farm refused AN outline planning application for the demolition of a derelict farm house and farm buildings near Wells and their replacement with seven new homes has been refused.

Among its reasons for turning down the plan for Victoria Farm,

Bath Road, West Horrington, Mendip District Council said that “the development would have an unjustified urbanising effect on the rural character of the area and will result in a detrimental visual encroachment into open countryside”.

Got News? Call 07906 499655

This is a burning question in many households up and down the country. We all want to get it right, whether to impress the in-laws or our friends, but mostly as we put so much effort into the food for the main event, we don’t want to ruin it.

As this is a time of celebration it makes sense to start with some Champagne, or alternative bubbles if you must. It is for no one to judge what time that first drink is taken, but it is certainly a nice way to start the day.

For the purpose of this we will take it that most people will follow the age-old tradition of turkey or goose. If you go down the beef route, then it is a bit easier as you avoid the big issue with the poultry – red or white or even rosé?

The challenge with pairing wine with turkey is what you serve with it – a full-flavoured, fruity, sometimes spicy stuffing, tart cranberry sauce and an array of vegetables that means you probably have about a dozen different flavours on your plate. That doesn’t mean you can’t pick a white or rosé, but it does suggest something full and fruity that can cope with the onslaught.

Goose is, of course, strongerflavoured than turkey – more like game but – crucially – quite a bit fattier which makes it essential to look for a wine that has a fair level of acidity. It also tends to be accompanied by lots of different trimmings which can also affect your choice.

And then there is the plethora of puddings and cheese. If you have the capacity it is always good to have some sweet wine – Sauternes or Australian stickies work well but Pedro Ximenez is the perfect indulgence with Christmas pudding.

A full, fruity rosé could be paired with turkey, while something with a fair level of acidity goes better with goose WITH TURKEY l Chablis 2019, Domaine Louis Moreau, Burgundy, France l B by La Grande Baquiere 2020, Domaine de la Grande Bauquière, Cotes De Provence, Provence, France (you will be surprised how well this will work) l Bourgogne Pinot Noir 2019, Regis and Sylvain, Burgundy, France WITH GOOSE l Famile Hugel ‘Gentil 2019’, Alsace, France l Quinta do Vallado Douro Tinto 2018, Douro, Portugal WITH BEEF l J P Mouiex Bordeaux 2016, Bordeaux, France WITH SALMON l Funkstille Grüner Veltliner 2020, Ferdinand Mayr, Niederösterreich, Austria

12 Market Place, Wells, Somerset, BA5 2RB hello@bishopseye.com • 01749 938180

Taking bookings for Christmas parties.

Book soon to avoid disappointment.

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wellsvoice

22

November 2021

n NEWS Picture: John Law

Left, Charlie Bigham presents Dan Massey of The Happy Forager with the Best in Show Award, with festival director Jon Abbott; and right, a range of produce was being offered for sale by Root Connections, the Community Interest Company that works with the Connect Centre to benefit the homeless

Record crowds as sun shines on food festival A RECORD number of visitors arrived in their thousands from far and wide to enjoy this year’s Wells Food Festival, which took place on Sunday, October 10, under a glorious blue sky.

“We were absolutely delighted by the turnout this year, of both our wonderful producers and visitors, estimated at over 15,000,” said Jon Abbott, festival organiser and Director.

“We had put in lots of measures, following government guidelines, to keep people feeling safe and the day felt a real celebration – in all sorts of ways.

It’s been a tough 18 months and this was a glorious way to bring everyone together. Now it’s time to start planning for 2022 – our 10th anniversary. I admit, we’ll need something really special to top this year’s festival.”

More than 150 artisan food and drink producers set up their stands, all delighted to have the chance to meet up

AWARD WINNERS Charlie Bigham’s Best in Show: The Happy Forager; Mogers Drewett Award for Best Cheese: White Lake Cheese; The Wells Food Festival Award for Non Alcoholic Drink: Drinks Kitchen; The Truespeed Award for Alcoholic Drink: Honey’s Cider; The Clearspace Award for Cooks Ingredients: The Happy Forager; The Probusiness Award for Snacks and Savouries: Step and Stone; The Lodestone Award for World Street Food: Murry May; The Wells Food Festival Award for West Country Street Food: Ellises Farm; The Wells Food Festival Award for Bread, Cakes and Desserts: Plum Duff and Stuff; The Riverford Award for Preserves: The Wicked Chilli; The Andrews Award for Best Confectionery: As Raw As. with old customers as well as making new ones. By Monday morning, bookings for 2022 had already started to come into the organisers’ office: a sign of a successful festival.

The awards shone a spotlight on a wide selection of the producers, with judges’ comments of passion, enthusiasm and commitment running throughout as a common theme with all the winners.

Dan Massey at The Happy Forager, near Radstock, won both the Clearspace Award for Cook’s Ingredients and Charlie Bigham’s Best in Show. On presenting his award, Charlie Bigham said that: “Dan at The Happy Forager stood out as someone who personifies all that is best about Wells Food Festival.

A passion for his product, local sourcing and a beautiful stall.”

Over in the Recreation Ground, a constant stream of

people visited the new feature areas. In the Celebrating English Wine marquee, three wine tasting sessions hosted by Ben Franks from Novel Wines were a sell-out. Meanwhile, over in the Fun Kitchen marquee, cookery workshops were at full capacity through the day with 130 children making Apple Scone Bread Twists under the watchful eye of Simon Gray.

“I’d also like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who helped on the day, from Mardons Carnival Club, Wells Community Network, and all our friends, supporters and sponsors,” said Jon. “The festival is run by volunteers, and we are always overwhelmed by people’s generosity with their time. If anyone would like to be involved with our 10th anniversary next year, please do get in touch.”

Further information from www.wellsfoodfestival.co.uk

From left: The Crumpeteers, who had a busy day; visitors buy pastries in one of the marquees; and Natalie and Gerry Koen on the Billies & Tong stall

To advertise, contact Andy on 01749 675157

Email: sales@wellsvoice.co.uk

wellsvoice

November 2021

23

n ON THE BEAT

n NEWS Author to read stories of dog

Things to be aware of about fireworks and darker nights AS we celebrate Halloween and Bonfire Night, there are many important messages to be shared to ensure we all play our part in keeping our communities as safe as possible.

I am sure after the previous 18 months, people will be looking forward to a good celebration. When purchasing or using fireworks / sparklers please follow the instructions on the packet and do not use irresponsibly. Remember it is illegal to buy fireworks if you are under the age of 18. Fireworks and sparklers must not be set off or thrown in the street or other public spaces. Fireworks must not be set off between 11pm-7am with the exception of Bonfire Night where the cut off is midnight. For those celebrating Diwali on November 4, the firework cut-off point is 1am.

News from the local policing team with PCSO Coral Forde Due to darkness hitting our streets at an earlier time, it is vital for pedestrians / cyclists / runners to take the time to ensure they are as visible as possible. The use of reflective / bright clothing can make all the difference to maximise safety.

Cyclists should also remember they need to wear a helmet and have lights on both the front and rear of the bike. Further tips for safety in the darkness include: n Tell a friend where you are going. Android users can now download the Holly Guard app, a live location app where with a shake or a tap you can send a message to your emergency contacts to say you need help. n Stay Alert. Naturally we all like to listen to music on our way home and may even be looking at our screens. Distractions near roads can be fatal if not paying attention to possible vehicles.

Wells Neighbourhood Policing Team are holding ‘Come Meet Us’ events, for further advice and guidance on how best to be safe, please go to www. avonandsomerset.police.uk/ your-area/

CHILDREN can listen to stories about ‘Tatty Tot – a brave little dog’ at Wells Library on Saturday, November 6, from 10.30am.

Written and read by local author Yvonne Gilroy, the story session is suitable for ages two to five.

For those who cannot make November 6, Yvonne will also be in the library on Saturday, November 20.

Details are subject to change so email wlslib@somerset.gov.uk to book a place.

Lego Club (for age five upwards) will take place on Saturday, November 20, from 10.30am.

There is a different theme every month so children can challenge themselves to see what they can make. Parents are welcome to join in.

Places are limited so email wlslib@somerset.gov.uk to book a place.

Build excitement on the lead up to Christmas with a visit to see

Father Christmas in his Secret Wonderland room at

John Lewis & Partners Cribbs Causeway Greeted by one of his Elves, you will be taken behind the scenes of one of Bristol’s favorite department stores to meet Father Christmas in his enchanted wonderland.

Get settled in and listen to a magical festive story for up to six children at a time. Each child will be presented with a beautifully wrapped, named gift, a bag of gold coins and a chance to have a photograph taken.

Tickets cost £20 and places are limited To book yours, or for more information, call The Experience Desk on 0117 9581847 or email experiencedesk.cribbs@johnlewis.co.uk

Got News? Call 07906 499655

Email: news@wellsvoice.co.uk

wellsvoice

24

November 2021

n NEWS

Above, Blue School staff past and present took part in a walk from Priddy to Wells; right, Sam’s brother Greg and partner Rachael (top) took on the Yorkshire Three Peaks, and a parkrun was one of the ways that Sam’s brother John and his wife Maria raised money for the hospice

Thousands raised in memory of Sam FUNDRAISING activities in memory of Wells Blue School teacher Sam Holland have raised more than £7,000 for St Margaret’s Hospice.

Hundreds of people walked, ran, cycled, danced and more on the weekend of Sam’s birthday to help raise funds for the hospice that looked after her at the end of her life.

Sam was head of the PE department at the Blue School.

Her husband Dan said: “Sam’s family and I would like to say a massive thank you to everyone who got active to raise money for the hospice on the weekend of Sam’s birthday. The number of people who wanted to contribute and the amount of money that

Millie Carrington, Annabelle Brown and Jasmine Kett paddleboarding was donated was truly overwhelming, the incredible total will make a significant difference to the hospice in helping care for many more patients and their families.”

Fundraisers included a walk of nearly five miles from Priddy to Wells by about 60 Blue School staff, former staff and friends, while students raised money by running, paddleboarding, hulahooping, and with a sponsored head shave.

A quiz night organised by Shepton Mallet Hockey Club, to which Sam belonged, raised more than £400 for the hospice.

Sam’s brothers John and Greg raised money in different ways. John and his wife Maria took part in a parkrun near their home in Lincolnshire, and were joined by their daughter Izzy for a 51-mile cycle ride, as Sam would have been 51 on September 24. Greg and his

partner Rachael tackled the Yorkshire Three Peaks. Sam’s mum, Diane, also played her part, challenging herself with a long hike and entering her first ever parkrun Dan took part in a number of the activities himself, including joining Chiara Chatard and 60 colleagues, friends and students at a Clubbercise Glow to celebrate Sam’s life in Holland Hall, as the Blue School’s sports hall is now known. They danced and glowed – with glow sticks and glowing bracelets – for 60 minutes, and raised £396.

Donations can still be made at https://www.st-margaretshospice.org.uk/tribute/SamHolland

From left, Dan Holland and Becky Webster walked from Bath to Bradford-on-Avon where they met Andy, Rachel, Beatrice and Martha Guest to walk further still; participants in Shepton Mallet parkrun on the Saturday; and Chiara Chatard with some of those who took part in the Clubbercise Glow

To advertise, contact Andy on 01749 675157

Email: sales@wellsvoice.co.uk

wellsvoice

November 2021

25

n NEWS

Contemporary art event a great success THIS year’s Wells Art Contemporary (WAC) was the most successful yet.

The exhibition in Wells Cathedral attracted hundreds of visitors to view the 27 installations and 91 artworks that were on display.

More works were sold than ever before during the exhibition, which came to an end on September 26 but can still be viewed online.

The exhibits were shortlisted from more than 3,500 works submitted by 1,800 artists from 45 different countries.

“The 2021 event has been staggeringly successful in so many ways,” said Paddy O’Hagan, Chair of WAC. “It was wonderful of course to get so many entries, and wonderful to see so many people touring the exhibition and taking such evident pleasure in the shortlisted art.

“Thank you to everyone

Bob Spriggs was this year’s People’s Prize winner with his kinetic scuplture Pictures: Studio Birdy Gathered From the Four Corners of the Earth who entered the competition, everyone who came to visit, the selectors, the stewards, our partners, particularly Arts Council England, and the Cathedral.”

A number of prizes were awarded by the judges, with the People’s Prize, voted for by visitors, going to Bob Spriggs

for his kinetic sculpture in the Chapter House.

Thoughts are already turning to next year’s WAC, when Paddy would be delighted to see even more public participation.

“Not everybody ‘gets’ contemporary art, and perhaps some people feel it is not for them, but I would love those

people to come to the exhibition next year,” he said.

“I would ask anyone who might be reluctant: what would make you engage with WAC? How can we encourage you to visit? I would be interested to hear your views. Email me at paddy@ohagan.me and let me know.”

There is a keenness to involve more younger people as well, both as visitors to the exhibition and as entrants to the competition. Paddy would welcome suggestions for ways of achieving these aims.

He would also like to recruit new committee members as two of the hard-working WAC committee are standing down after many years of service.

“What we do is enjoyable, it’s rewarding – and you don’t need to know anything about art,” he said.

“Get in touch if you would like to discuss things further.”

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Email: news@wellsvoice.co.uk

wellsvoice

26

November 2021

n NEWS IN BRIEF Police patrolling road more regularly ADDITIONAL police patrols are taking place in Priory Road, Wells, at key times when data shows that crime is likely to occur.

It is part of an Avon and Somerset Police back-to-basics

approach in the fight against street-based violent crime, using part of a £660,000 Home Office fund for insight-led patrols in areas of high demand.

Since June 2021 additional foot patrols have seen officers engaging with the public when and where violent crime is likely to occur. Initial figures indicate these targeted patrols

have brought about significant decreases in crime and antisocial behaviour.

Antique shop on TV A WELLS antique shop featured in an episode of BBC One’s Antiques Road Trip that was screened in October.

Paul Martin bought an

Edwardian cast-iron fireplace fender from Matthew Coles Antiques in Sadler Street during his journey around the West Country.

The price on the ticket was £45 but shop owner Matthew Coles let him have it for £20 – and it subsequently sold at auction for £40.

No Xmas card shop THE organisation Cards for Good Causes have decided that they cannot run a Christmas Card shop at St Cuthbert’s Church this year. Charity cards are available from their online shop.

Gold medal win INSPIRATIONAL Jack Eyers, who grew up in Wells, won a gold medal at the International Canoe Federation Para Canoe World Championships in Copenhagen.

He beat British team-mate Stuart Wood in the men’s VL3 final at the event in September.

The former Blue School student chose to have his right leg amputated at the age of 16 because of a rare birth defect that left the leg underdeveloped and painful, and went on to become the first amputee to win the Mr England title.

Musicians reach out LOCAL musicians Trio Paradis have been awarded National Lottery funding to help bring new monthly cafe concert series to Mendip community venues in 2022.

People who would like to apply for their village or venue to be included should contact Jacquelyn Bevan: email trioparadis@icloud.com or visit www.trioparadis.com Trio Paradis give monthly daytime concerts at several South West venues.

Scrabble sessions THE new Wells Scrabble Group met for the first time in St Thomas’ Church Hall on October 1 from 10am-12pm.

The next meetings will be October 29 and November 5.

The £5 a session pays for the hall, and for tea and coffee.

Email janehill546@aol.com for more information, or just turn up.

To advertise, contact Andy on 01749 675157

Email: sales@wellsvoice.co.uk

wellsvoice

November 2021

27

n NEWS

Motorcycle club hands over more big cheques WELLS Classic Motorcycle Club held its 20th AGM, presentations and social evening at Wells Football Club on October 16.

The Mayor and Mayoress, Philip and Caroline Welch, attended to present the various club awards to members.

At the end of the meeting some of the marshals and helpers from the 10th annual Tortoise and Hare Run joined with members to present Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance with another large donation of £3,500. The Blood Bikes also received a donation of £800.

These donations were from the club’s Tortoise and Hare

fund. To date, the club has given more than £28,000 to Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance from these events.

Having to change the date of the 2021 event due to Covid-19 restrictions meant the club was able to make it a ‘weekend event’ which proved very popular.

Next year’s event is set for the weekend of July 15-17, 2022.

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Email: news@wellsvoice.co.uk

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wellsvoice

November 2021

29

n NEWS Mistletoe and music event

Founders of Heads Up Connect meeting at Wells Town Hall

New social group for carers will also be source of information

By Philip Welch LIFE as a carer can be a lonely, isolating and sometimes bewildering whether you are looking after an adult with dementia, a child with specific physical or cognitive needs or anyone who needs extra care and support in their everyday life.

But now the mental health charity Heads Up has helped found a new group for carers which will address some of these issues with a mixture of social and information sessions.

Called Heads Up Connect, a spokesperson said: “We can create a safe environment where we can talk about things we are finding difficult in the knowledge that many of us will have experienced similar things.

There may not be solutions, but at least we can try to help each other in an atmosphere of trust, kindness and friendship.

“We may want to share ideas from our own experience on how to deal with some common situations that arise – what worked and what didn’t.

“Things change all the time – how do we deal with the next stage?

“All this will be against a background of a social atmosphere where we can drink tea/coffee, eat biscuits and chat about anything that occurs to us. The group might decide they want to organise a Sunday lunch or a trip to some local gardens, watch a film, or whatever.”

It will get information from professional organisations

that may be able to help with problems that arise. They will find out “who does what” and how to contact them.

The group has established an afternoon group on Mondays from 2pm-3.30pm at Heads Up’s base in South Horrington and a morning group from 11am-1pm on Fridays at Wells Town Hall.

The meetings will happen fortnightly to begin with.

They are also intending to include a variety of talks by solicitors, health staff, benefit help and more.

Heads Up stressed that his project is about warmth and fellowship rather than a stuffy information group.

For more information contact Heads Up by calling 01749 670667.

THERE will be no Reindeer Parade again this year, but Wells Rotary are organising another mistletoe and music Christmas event instead. It will take place in Market Place on Sunday, December 12, from 10.30am2.30pm.

Headband antlers, mistletoe and lantern kits will be for sale, and there will be a Christmas Coconut Shy, food, books and flowers, and music from the Wells Jazz Collective as a relaxed musical backdrop.

The event will be in aid of Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance.

Look out for more details in the December edition.

Chance for fun and friendship ALL are welcome at meetings of the Connect-Ed Social and Support Group.

Where? The Lawrence Centre, Wells, BA5 2PQ. When? The last Tuesday of the month, 3.30pm-5.30pm (except at Christmas when the meeting is on the third Tuesday, which this year will be December 21).

What? Board games, raffle, refreshments, crafts, seasonal events, quizzes and other activities.

Why? Neurodiverse adults, adults with mild learning disabilities, autism spectrum conditions or sensory impairment can meet new friends, share ideas and have fun.

Free of charge. Text 07396 000 533 for further information.

Will writing services for charity

Grants available for young people

WELLS solicitors Chubb Bulleid are taking art in Will Aid again this year.

The annual campaign, which raised over £655,000 for charity in 2020, provides people with an opportunity to get a solicitor written will in exchange for a voluntary donation to Will Aid. Throughout November, firms across the country are volunteering their time to write basic wills. There is expected

FUNDING is available from Somerset Community Foundation for young people who live in Somerset from two grants programmes.

Enterprise Grants for up to £1,000 are available for those not in employment, education or training, aged 18-30 to launch their business idea or to support their business in its early stages.

Training and Employment Support Grants for up to £500

to be a high demand, so people are encouraged to book an appointment now.

Since being launched in 1988, the campaign has raised more than £21 million for its nine partner charities: ActionAid, Age UK, British Red Cross, Christian Aid, NSPCC, Save the Children, SCIAF, Sightsavers, and Trocaire.

Chubb Bulleid raised £5,040 for the campaign last year.

Got News? Call 07906 499655

could help a young person aged 16-30 with the cost of essential items for training or apprenticeships, or to start a new job.

The deadline for applications is Friday, November 19. For more information visit www. somersetcf.org.uk/grantsindividuals or contact Kirsty Campbell by emailing info@ somersetcf.org.uk or by calling 01749 344949.

Email: news@wellsvoice.co.uk

wellsvoice

30

n COMMERCIAL SENSE

November 2021

With Jane Bowe of Probusiness accountants

Side by side from start-up to business success

WELL, the last couple of years have been a blast, haven’t they?

Meanwhile, we plod on, making the best of all the challenges thrown at us by the pandemic and Brexit. Love it or loathe it, Brexit does present challenges, and the next few years will throw up plenty of those.

One of the things we expect to see is the rise of small, sole trader or family businesses.

Small enough and flexible enough to work within the remit of their local markets, and then, with careful attention and support, to grow and become tomorrow’s successes.

Over our 28 years in Wells, it has been our privilege to support some tiny start-up businesses, virtually holding their hands as they took some wobbly steps, then assisting them to the point where they have been able to sell on for substantial sums. These people have all had a vision, been prepared to listen to and

Probusiness has had an office in Wells for 28 years learn from good advice and they have worked extremely hard. So, over the years, we have realised that we have gained a significant expertise in assisting start-up businesses.

Of course, not every business will grow exponentially; some people want to keep their business small for very specific reasons. There is nothing wrong with that and such businesses can be a part of a vibrant hub in a community like ours. The process of supporting a new business is not, therefore, a

To advertise, contact Andy on 01749 675157

‘one size fits all’. It was on this premise that Probusiness was started 28 years ago.

As we go forward from this difficult patch, continue to grow and move with the times and technology, various aspects of our business practices, whether we are small or multinational, will need to move too. We may be forced to undertake that most difficult thing, and embrace change. I have more to say on that, but in the meantime, front and centre in our world of business, we must keep our eye on the quality of our service, our honesty and integrity, and not to be afraid to seek help when we need it.

In Wells and its surrounding areas, we have a lot of expertise; some of it is amongst the best available in the UK. Remember that when things are getting too much, there is no honour in keeping things to yourself.

Ultimately, the difference

between success and failure can be as simple as appropriate communication. So, remember that there are people around who are highly trained and experienced and willing to help and, before things get too difficult, go and speak to them.

It may cost you some money, but believe me, it will be so very worth it in the end. Oh, and by the way, they won’t usually be propping up the bar in your local.

We love what we do and we believe that accounting is about people, not just figures.

Furthermore, our community matters and we will be here to support anyone who is thinking about starting up a new business in these strange times and wants a free chat and some really good introductions to people who can help.

Best wishes to one and all and thank you Wells, for supporting us over the years…

Email: sales@wellsvoice.co.uk

wellsvoice

November 2021

n NEWS

31

Legal guidance with Chubb Bulleid

Lifetime trusts and the nursing home fee conundrum

By Richard Cussell

The four community groups with their SOUP cheques which were presented by Wells Mayor Philip Welch

Lunch that benefits good causes returns THE long-awaited return of the popular SOUP grant-funding lunch attracted more than 50 people through the rain on October 2.

They went to the Connect Centre, in Wells, all eager to hear the four local community groups make their pitch, to meet up with old friends, and to enjoy the tasty soups.

First to speak was Ruth Knagg from We Hear You (WHY) who won £400 at the last SOUP in January 2020. They offer counselling to people suffering from cancer and the money from SOUP went to fund 16 counselling sessions, she said, going on to read out examples of thank you letters that WHY have received from patients and carers.

Wells St John Ambulance were seeking funds to help their cadet training programme and their outreach work with schools and communities. Fifteen-yearold James Peters, one of their cadets, spoke enthusiastically about his experiences.

Children’s World use the arts and entertainment to connect with vulnerable people. Led by Jessica Hirst, four members put on a short performance, in costume, showing the kind of work they do.

Tanya Climo presented the work of the Mendip Fibromyalgia

Support Group with a moving address describing the debilitating effect of the disease on sufferers like herself and the importance of the support they offer.

Trisha Fine spoke as a street co-ordinator for Neighbourhood Watch in Wells, her own street’s experience of car crime, and how residents joining Neighbourhood Watch can deter vandals and burglars, as well as keeping them informed about doorstep and phone scams. The local team would like to see every street in Wells join the scheme.

After everyone present voted for their favourite, St John Ambulance was pronounced the winner of £375 with the other three winning £125 each.

SOUP is organised every quarter by Wells Independents, with the next one planned for January 15. These SOUP lunches have now raised funds for 67 local community groups.

Probusiness, the accountants in Chamberlain Street, Wells, donated £350 towards the day’s prize money, Waitrose provided all the ingredients for the soups, Burns the Bread the bread rolls, Santé the red wine, Morrisons the soft drinks and white wine, and every penny of the £5 each member of the public paid for their lunch went into the prize money.

Got News? Call 07906 499655

THE Government recently announced changes to the way in which nursing home fees are to be paid. We are now told that eventually we will not have to pay more than £86,000 towards our nursing costs.

However, in my view, this is not close to as good as it sounds. If you require a nursing home in Somerset then the average costs for all of them is now at least £1,000 per week. Of that an element is in respect of your care.

A further element (perhaps the larger element) is in respect of your “hotel” costs. The costs of having your room, the heating, the entertainment, the food and so on. Even though the Government may assist us with regard to the care costs, I do not think for a moment that this will cover general accommodation costs. The nursing home fee problem is still with us.

I am regularly seeing clients because they are concerned about preserving their assets for the next generation. It is surprising how often I am able to tell them that they do not have a problem. If you think about it, your pension and capital needs to generate around £50,000 per annum.

Let us say that I am speaking with a widow living in a house in Wells worth £400,000 with £100,000 in the bank and a pension income from state pension and perhaps occupational pension of £20,000 per annum.

If she were to require a nursing home then her £500,000 could be invested. I do know that interest rates are very low. I also know that most independent financial advisers will tell you that even a conservative portfolio will over the course of time bring in at least a four per cent return.

Four per cent of £500,000 is £20,000 a year.

That together with her pension achieves £40,000 a year. The shortfall against £50,000 worth of nursing home fees is therefore not that great. £500,000 might last for 50 years.

Even after 10 years it will not have depleted by much. It is worth doing the mathematics to see whether you really have a problem.

Statistics also suggest that the problem is not as great as you might think. Only one out of six of us over 80 end up in a nursing home. The national media seems to suggest that the number is rather more. Rather grimly, when we do go into a nursing home statistically we are only in there for an average of 15 months.

The general rule with regard to handing over assets to the next generation in order to try and save nursing home fees is called “intention to deprive”. It is nothing to do with the seven-year rule which is in relation to gifting and avoiding inheritance tax. The intention to deprive rule counts whether you gave an asset away one year ago or ten years ago, or any time at all.

Admittedly it is very difficult for a local authority to trace and prove over time that an asset was given away with the intention of depriving the state of it.

Recently I have had a number of clients come to see me because they have had third parties trying to sell them lifetime trusts or family protection trusts. The idea here is that for a not insignificant sum of money, it is suggested that if they transfer their assets into a trust where they are still the beneficiaries of the trust they will avoid the nursing home fee problem.

I do not believe that this will work.

If I was asked by the local authority to defend a situation where a couple had transferred their assets from themselves into a trust where they were still the beneficiaries I cannot see how that could be anything other than intention to deprive.

My advice is simple. Do not be persuaded to buy products such as these from third parties visiting your homes without at least taking advice and guidance from those of us who have been dealing with these problems for many years. n Richard Cussell is a Solicitor Director with Chubb Bulleid which has offices in Wells, Street and Somerton. Phone 01749 836100.

Offices in Wells, Street and Somerton Tel: 01749 836100

Personal legal services for you, your business and your family www.chubb-bulleid.co.uk

wellsvoice

32

November 2021

n NEWS

Walk will help fund chapel restoration A WALK around the entire coastal path of the Isle of Wight has raised thousands of pounds towards the restoration of the City of Wells Almshouses’ Bubwith Chapel.

Chris Vigar, an almshouses trustee, undertook the sponsored walk of about 70 miles in October.

It took him six days, following the established route, and so far the walk has raised more than £3,000.

“It was pretty hard going at times as anyone who knows the Isle of Wight will tell you and like most coastal paths, there’s a lot of up and down,” he said.

“But with support from friends and family and excellent sustenance from the cooking of my wife, La, as well as other good friends on the island, not to mention some splendid local hostelries, I managed to finish the walk on time.”

Chris said he was grateful to Voltarol, Nurofen, and everyone

who supported him and to all who donated to the JustGiving sites or sent cash or cheques.

As well as carrying out essential restoration work to the Bubwith Chapel in Chamberlain Street, the project plans to adapt the space in the beautiful medieval chapel for more flexible use by the local community.

There have been many expressions of support for the plan so that, while it will still remain primarily a place of worship, it will be able to host concerts, recitals, lectures, seminars, presentations, small group activities and other similar events, all of which will help the people of Wells and the surrounding area to recover from the Covid pandemic.

It will also be an added attraction to tourists and visitors to Wells, and the trustees are keenly looking forward to opening up the doors of this hidden treasure as soon as possible.

Sue Marland loads fresh produce from the community garden at The Bishop’s Palace which has been donated to Wells Foodbank

Gardeners giving veg to Foodbank KIND gardeners at The Bishop’s Palace have formed a helpful routine.

Every week they leave a wheelbarrow of fresh vegetables for Sue Marland to collect for the Wells Foodbank.

“We are grateful to the growers as we want to put plenty of fresh produce in our food parcels,” said Sue, senior pastor of Wells Vineyard, which runs the Foodbank.

The Foodbank also gets end of the day fresh food from Tesco and Waitrose in Wells as well as from Aldi in Shepton Mallet.

“We are looking to shop for Christmas earlier than usual, to ensure we have sufficient supplies for our clients throughout the season, but financial donations to the Foodbank have been diminishing of late,” said Sue. If anyone would like to contribute financially, they can do so via the Wells Vineyard Christian Fellowship bank account: 31387170, sort code 4046-06, reference Foodbank.

From January 2021 up to the end of September, the Foodbank had provided 60,120 meals.

Return of service at which loved ones are remembered AFTER being cancelled due to Covid in 2020, the Marie Curie/Macmillan service of remembrance will return on Sunday, November 21. Held at Wells Cathedral, it is to honour and remember those who have been loved and lost to illness.

Everyone is welcome and the service will run from 3pm-4pm with complimentary refreshments afterwards.

Riona Houghton, Marie Curie community fundraiser for Somerset, said: “We are really grateful to Wells Cathedral that

SITUATIONS VACANT

we are able to hold the service again on November 21. It’s a wonderful service and nice for the community to be able to come together in this special place.”

At the service there is the opportunity to put a dedication

in to the Marie Curie Book of Remembrance which is held in the Cathedral throughout the year.

For more information, contact Riona on 07405 250650 or email riona.houghton@ mariecurieorg.uk

PUBLIC NOTICES LICENSING ACT 2003 NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR A PREMISES LICENCE

Making Funerals less of an undertaking

JOB OPPORTUNITIES l Wells Funeral Services is looking for pallbearers aged 55+.

If you are retired or work part time and are looking for extra money, why not train as a pallbearer? l Have you been in sales or are you semi-retired?

Wells Funeral Services is looking for a flamboyant, engaging person to work eight hours a week on the stall at Wells Market. £10 an hour, must be a car owner.

Call Rod Major on 01749 670100 or email rod@wfs.me.uk

To advertise, contact Andy on 01749 675157

Notice is hereby given that ALEXANDER MITCHELMORE has applied to Mendip District Council for the grant of a premises licence under the Licensing Act 2003 in respect of The Old Post Office, Market Place, Wells BA5 2RA. This application is for the GRANT of a NEW PREMISES LICENCE for Mon-Sat 10:30-23:30 and Sunday 11:00-23:30 for the supply of alcohol on and off the premises. Representations relating to this application must be made in writing to Mendip District Council, Licensing Department, Cannards Grave Road, Shepton Mallet, Somerset BA4 5BT or by email to licensing@mendip.gov.uk by no later than 08/11/2021. All relevant representations, including names and addresses, will be supplied to the applicant and included in a public report.

The full application can be inspected at the Council Offices during normal working hours by prior appointment only or can be viewed on the Council public register available online at www.mendip.gov.uk It is an offence on summary conviction to knowingly or recklessly make a false statement in connection with this application, the maximum fine for which is unlimited.

Email: sales@wellsvoice.co.uk

November 2021

wellsvoice

33

n FROM THE TOWN HALL

First return of assets expected soon WE are entering the opportunity of a lifetime for Wells to regain more control over the place we live.

Almost 50 years ago many of the city’s assets were transferred to the new Mendip District Council.

Now in a new reorganisation of local government Somerset’s four district councils and the existing county council will be abolished and replaced by a unitary county council in May 2023.

So the city council has asked Mendip to return assets, with Recreation Ground and the Bishop’s Barn transfer expected to happen before Christmas.

We have also given Mendip a shopping list of other assets, including Wells Market Place, the Athletic Ground and Burcott Road Allotments. n Wells City Council expects to exchange contracts for the Portway Annexe in November.

GLASTONBURY & WELLS CATS PROTECTION

NEUTERING CAMPAIGN

CLOSING DATE EXTENDED! Thanks to the co-operation of all the local participating vets, we are able to extend our current neutering campaign to DECEMBER 31, 2021

Above, 24 teams took part in a Quiz Night in the Town Hall which raised £1,300 for my charity Macmillan Cancer Support; left, Gert and Daisy relax with the Mayor and Mayoress after their brilliant performance of Life During Lockdown which raised £910 for the Mayor’s Charity

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.

Glastonbury and Wells Cats Protection Reg Charity No: 203644 (England & Wales) and SCO37711 (Scotland)

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0117 952 0698

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Pedigree cats are not eligible and vouchers will only be issued for participating vets.

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This offer is open to residents in Glastonbury, Wells, Street, Cheddar, Shepton Mallet and surrounding areas.

Julia on 07833 634087 Emma on 07717 837040 Holly on 07855 075962 Gill on 01749 850660 A neutered cat is a happy and healthy cat so be a responsible owner and phone for your voucher.

Developers were ready to pay £750,000 for the Grade 2 listed building when Somerset County Council put it on the market but the city council is only paying £590,000 and will turn it into a community centre used by a wide range of community groups. n “Everybody has been very friendly and welcoming,” says Emma Jakins, who has joined the Town Hall staff as our first Sustainability Officer.

She loves nature and walking in the countryside but has to spend most of her free time completing a Masters Degree in Advanced Wildlife Conservation after achieving a BSc in Geography at Bath Spa University.

In October next year she will marry her fiancé Ryan, a secondary school geography teacher.

Philip Welch Mayor of Wells Email: p.welch@wells.gov.uk

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wellsvoice

November 2021

n NEWS

35

Focus on health with Bluebird Care

Choice, dignity and purpose

By Jenny Atkins

There was a steady stream of visitors to the Wells bus depot on September 25 for an open day to celebrate 100 years of buses running in the city, and nearly 100 years since the depot first opened. Visitors were able to meet the depot team, hear from local historians, and see vintage buses in action.

Artist starts stained glass workshops THE Bishop’s Palace Artist in Residence, Edgar Phillips, is offering an opportunity to learn traditional skills with new stained glass workshops.

Born in London in 1970, Edgar has trained in all aspects of stained glass design, manufacture and restoration. He specialises in new commissions of stained glass, sculpture and lighting, where possible incorporating rescued and restored antique glass. His glass and sculptures adorn buildings across the globe – from churches to the homes of Hollywood royalty.

In 2012, he created his first pair of wings, inspired by his own story of triumph over adversity. The wings have gone on to bring hope and joy to many hundreds of thousands – from monks to TV stars to visitors at Glastonbury Festival. Two pairs of his wing sculptures are installed in the grounds of The Bishop’s Palace where he works from his studio.

Edgar will be offering courses ranging from a oneday introduction to a fiveday complete experience.

Participants will learn how to design, cut glass, sandblast, and using traditional methods to paint on glass.

Edgar said: “I believe strongly in the therapeutic and healing potential of art and creativity and consider this beneficial for all.

Often people who are financially

DIGNITY in care work focuses on the value of every person as an individual.

It means respecting other’s views, choices and decisions, not making assumptions about how people want to be treated and given a sense of purpose in their daily lives.

Choice is defined as an act of choosing between two or more possibilities. It is important to understand we are all making choices all the time. Even when we choose not to make a choice we have made a choice.

We like having choice as it allows us to feel in control.

Choice is about you, it is personal and there are times we think does choice really matter? Some types of choices can be quite simple and then there are times where there are lots of restrictions to a person’s choices and options and it sometimes feels like there is not really a choice at all – it’s just the way things have to be. Everyone’s choices are shaped by things like their background, values, culture, religion or similar beliefs (if any), education or past experiences.

Taking control of your own care and support helps build your identity and self-esteem. Opportunity to choose for ourselves allows us to learn and grow as individuals. Everyone has individual tastes and preferences which they are entitled to voice and be respected for, and these can often change depending on a whole variety of factors such as the time of day, the season or simply a person’s mood.

It’s important your care is based around your individual preference

by providing customers with choice which customers have a right to.

Everyone is unique and therefore will have different thoughts and opinions about tasks, when to be done, how to be done, how long for, which overall gives us our own identity. To ensure you treat everyone as an individual there are some simple things to remember: l Talk to the person as an individual l Avoid stereotyping people l Allow individuals to do as much for themselves as possible l Respect people with the same respect you would want for yourself or a member of your family l Listen and support people to express their needs and wants Everyone has a need for purpose which creates defining characteristics.

We crave purpose, and suffer serious psychological difficulties when we don’t have it. Purpose is a fundamental component of a fulfilling life. Everyone has a sense of purpose; without it we lose our way and become demotivated and depressed.

There may come a time when your ability to manage to fulfil your purpose is difficult, but with support through a service supporting in a dignified way they will be tailoring your care plan around you to enable you to fulfil your purpose.

Everyone in the community has a role to play in upholding dignity.

Wouldn’t it be boring if we were all the same? So let’s celebrate difference and support our families and friends for being different and let’s support them to remain who they are. n Jenny Atkins is Care Manager of Bluebird Care (Mendip), email CMMendip@bluebirdcare.co.uk, phone 01749 372197 or 01458 570015.

Edgar Phillips outside his studio; he is offering one-day and five-day stained glass workshops compromised or living with physical or mental health issues or living with a learning disability struggle to access the same experiences as others. So to acknowledge this imbalance I am also offering a limited number of free workshop places throughout the year.”

Courses start from £315.

More details are available via The Bishop’s Palace website at www.bishopspalace.org.uk

Got News? Call 07906 499655

01749 37 21 97

wellsvoice

36

November 2021

n NEWS Invitation to do bit for refugees

The Last Post is sounded at the ceremony at at St Cuthbert’s Church

Pictures: jesswhittinghamphotography

Battle of Britain remembered WITH the kind permission of the Vicar, the Rev Sam Denyer, the Mid-Somerset Branch of the Royal Air Forces Association commemorated the Battle of Britain with a service and wreath-laying ceremony at St Cuthbert’s Church, Wells, on Sunday, September 19.

The event was to remember those who fought in 1940, as well as those RAF personnel who have fought in the many subsequent conflicts around the world.

The Lord-Lieutenant of Somerset was represented by Rear Admiral Brian Perowne and the County High Sheriff

by Jennifer Duke the High Sheriff (Designate) for 2022.

Also attending were the Mayor and Mayoress of Wells Philip

RAF Air Cadets from 1182 (Shepton Mallet) and 1955 (City of Wells) Squadrons parading the Branch Standard and Squadron Banners and Caroline Welch, the Chair of Street Parish Council Laura Wolfers with Luke Harrison and

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To advertise, contact Andy on 01749 675157

the Deputy Chair of Mendip District Council, Nick Cottle.

The Royal British Legion was represented by the Somerset County Chair and the Wells Chair and Secretary, and the Royal Naval Association by the Street Branch Chair and Welfare Officer. RAF Air Cadets from 1955 (City of Wells) and 1182 (Shepton Mallet) Squadrons provided a smart body of light blue and paraded with style the Branch Standard and their Squadron banners.

The service included some rousing hymns, a stimulating sermon by the Branch Chaplain the Rev Craig Manley and some moving personal reflections by the Branch Chairman John Hawkins and the Chaplain to 1182 Sqn Sister Anne Martin.

COULD Wells follow the example of a group in Bristol who have set up a scheme to help refugees?

Westbury Welcome is a Community Sponsorship group, working in partnership with the Home Office and Bristol City Council to offer a warm welcome to a small number of Syrian refugee families.

Two families have been sponsored to settle in Westburyon-Trym. Volunteer Lesley said: “These families have moved from refugee camps and difficult circumstances to Westbury. We support them to live in their own home, receive good quality health care and learn English.

They now have the opportunity to find employment and, for the children, to attend school. It is such a privilege to meet and get to know these families.”

Lucy Malt, one of the project leaders, said: “Although it’s about transforming a refugee’s life, uprooting and moving to a new country is not a situation they wanted nor invited.

“We are inviting people who want to start their own group to get in contact with us, and we will support them through the process of sponsoring a refugee family.”

Information about Community Sponsorship can be found at www.resetuk.org.uk For further information on setting up a new local group, email westburywelcome@gmail. com View every edition online at issuu.com/wellsvoice

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

Email: sales@wellsvoice.co.uk

wellsvoice

November 2021

37

n NEWS

A NEW series of arts talks is taking place in Wells on a monthly basis during the time that Antony Gormley’s sculpture DOUBT is in place at Wells Cathedral.

Guest speakers for CHATS – Cedars Hall Arts Talks Series – have been chosen from across the arts world and include some very prestigious names. All the talks will be live-streamed.

CHATS programme curator Sophie Rucker said: “We have been amazed and delighted by the quality of guest speakers that have accepted our invitation.

This is just what Wells needs to see it through the winter and into 2022.

“CHATS arose as a response to Antony Gormley’s generous loan of a new sculpture which will be with us for 18 months and we hope that the talks will continue long after it has left.

We are very pleased to be able to offer live-streaming of all

Picture: Theresa Pewal

High calibre of speakers in art talks series

Guest speakers for CHATS will include Gavin Plumley, top, and Sir John Eliot Gardiner

the talks and also to be able to offer free places at the talks to students from local schools.”

The series was launched on September 16 with a talk

by Jo Baring that tracked the development of modern British sculpture from the figurative to the abstract.

Future speakers include cultural historian, writer and broadcaster Gavin Plumley; conductor and polymath Sir John Eliot Gardiner; artist Richard Long; Rachel CampbellJohnston, chief art critic of The Times; Olivia Fraser, artist and great niece of Surrealist painter Eileen Agar; Hettie Judah, art critic and writer; Tim Marlow, Chief Executive and Director of the Design Museum, London; Dr Xa Sturgis, Director of the Ashmolean, Oxford; and Randall Wright, award-winning arts filmmaker.

In April 2022, Antony Gormley himself will be in

conversation with Professor Stephen Bann from Bristol University.

Tickets for November and December’s speakers, Gavin Plumley and Sir John Eliot Gardiner, are available online at uk.patronbase.com/_ WellsEvents

Gormley print draw ANTONY Gormley is keen to encourage local community creative and educational projects and to this end has donated an original signed lithograph named MANIFOLD, made with Edition Copenhagen, for which there will be a prize draw with entrance tickets priced at £20. Proceeds will fund visits from schools.

The framed lithograph is currently on show at GBS Fine Art, first floor, 13 Sadler Street, Wells. The prize draw can be entered online at niche338.org

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wellsvoice

38

November 2021

n MESSAGE FROM THE MP

I will keep serving community in any way I can AS I am sitting down to write this, I have just been back in the House of Commons following recess.

It had not occurred to MPs that they would return to pay tribute to not just one, but two colleagues. But such is the cruelness sometimes of this world, James Brokenshire lost his battle with cancer, and days later Sir David Amess was killed while he was doing his job.

First and foremost, my thoughts continue to be with both sets of family and friends who are going through unimaginable pain.

Sir David’s five children and wife bravely put out a remarkable statement which was both heartfelt and devastating.

What struck with me, though, is they said they “would survive for the sake of a wonderful man”.

I didn’t know David as well

News from Wells MP James Heappey ‘It had not occurred to MPs that they would return to pay tribute to not just one, but two colleagues’ as many of my colleagues will have done. But I knew him well enough to know he was one of

the kindest and most genuine people in Parliament.

It has been a trying few days and this has affected the whole country and I know it has hit Parliamentary staff hard, too.

I must thank Avon and Somerset Police for immediately getting in touch not just with me – but with my constituency office.

I hold weekly surgeries across the patch, and over the past few weeks it has been wonderful to get back to holding these in person. To find out that David was attacked at something so regular for MPs, shook everyone to the core. But I know I speak not only for myself – but also my team – when I say while this attack was meant to result in terror, it will not succeed and I will keep serving the community in any way I can.

There has been a lot of

discussion in recent days about security, safety and even the cancelling of constituency surgeries. I will not do that. I cannot do that. As Members of Parliament we sit in libraries, churches and community centres hoping to help constituents who need us. Tweaks to security might be necessary but nothing can fundamentally change, these surgeries are foundations on which service as an MP is delivered.

Thank you to all the constituents who have got in touch in recent days with messages of condolences and concern, it does not go unnoticed.

My priority continues to be serving the people of the Wells constituency – it is what Sir David Amess would want everyone who serves the public to do.

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Email: sales@wellsvoice.co.uk

wellsvoice

November 2021

n IN DAYS GONE BY

39

With Clare Blackmore

Best clothes often left for others in wills

A CURRENT trend is to buy furred with fox and to the same a Wells there are many adverts fewer new clothes and to recycle doublet of red guarded velvet.” for second-hand bicycles, motor and reuse old clothes, and Wells 1519 John Welshote, Mercer bikes, cars, furniture and carpets is blessed with a good selection of Wells in the countie of but the concept of second-hand of busy charity shops which Somerset, “to John Welshote, or used clothing doesn’t seem to are essential in the recycling of my son, my scarlett gowne, my appear until 1900 when a Mrs quality second-hand clothes. best doublette, velvet typet and Bartlett advertises in the Wells In some of the ancient Wells pouch, a scarlett hood lined with Journal for: “Left off clothing, wills the common practice was minyver (plain white fur) and best price given, The Wells to leave friends, family and five yards of cloth to make him a Second Hand Clothing Stores, 17 favourite servants your best gowne and hood, to William, my St Cuthbert Street”. clothes and therefore ensure son, a little pouch covered with The concept of second-hand their longevity through at least velvet worn with double rings of or used clothing gains pace after two generations. silver, my chamlett (jacket), my the Second World War when 1313 In the will of Margery violet gowne furred with black clothing coupons were still in The busy charity shops that can atte Churchesteghle, she leaves shanks, my gowne furred with use and then clothes were sold at be found in Wells provide an to her sister, Muriel, 20 shillings fox. I forgyve Robert Bracy, my church and jumble sales. important service today in the and one surcoat (an outer coat of servant, all debts he owes me and There was a shop in the 1970s recycling of quality second-hand rich material) of fur lined morre I give him four broad yards of in Priory Road called “Second clothes. Pictured is the Barnardo’s (silk) and one hood of fur lined black cloth for a gowne.”

Hand Rose” which sold “Nearly shop in High Street blue cloth.

1532 John Cornyshe, “to my New Clothes”, and the concept 1378 Alice Gill, widow of brother, Robert Cornyshe, a cote, of a charity shop began in Wells 1416 John Horewode, Umfrey le Suvyere of Wells, “to a jerkyn, a doublet, a payre of in the late 1960s / early 1970s Burgess of Wells, “to John my sisters Joan and Margery, hosys and a sheet.” when charities would take over Scheperde, one gown of blue and two shillings of silver in equal 1533 Alison Peerse, “to John an empty shop in the city with green furred with white and one portions at the four quarters of Warren a cote without slyvys.” the landlord’s approval for a few doublet of worsted, to Thomas the year and two pairs of slippers Looking back through the weeks to raise money for their Galeway, one gown embroidered at Christmas and dinner at the old newspapers, since 1851, in chosen cause. and furred, to Thomas Blyth, one same feast.” girdle of silk and beaded with 1407 Richard Groos, Burgess silver.” of Wells residing on the west side 1445 Alexander Hody, Canon of St Cuthbert Street, to “John of the Church of Wells: “to my Pope, Tyler (Tiler), my best gown brother, John, two cloaks one with a hood, to Richard, my of murray lined with black fur sister’s husband, my second best worth 6s 8d, the other blue gown with a hood, to Joan, my coloured, lune shaped with black sister, three yards of cloth.” fringe worth 13s 4d and the 1408 Thomas Terry, Canon restoration of the said cloaks.” of Wells, left: “to John Garslade, 1512 John Tyler, No need for an expensive care home my servant. and John Dulcynge, clothemaker, “to John Goode of my groom, clothing for the the Almshouse, my blue gowne Stay independent at home with your own live in carer springtime.” furred, to Thomas Bowcher of No for an expensive care 1409 John Grene, Canon of the same house, my litill blueManyneed people want to stay in home their own home as they get olde the Church of Wells, “to Walter gowne furred, to John Vowlis, a No need for an expensive care home Stay independent at home with your own No need for an expensive care home live in carer Wylton my gown of red with a russet gowne.”

No need for a Stay independent at home with your own want live into carer hood, to Edith Duke, my best1513 AmbroseStay Edgere, “to Many people stay in their own home as they get older independent at home with your own liveaninproviding carer Featherbed Care has been live in carers since 198 No need for expensive care home lined cloak.”

William Coper of russet No need for an expensive care home Many people want to stayaingowne their own home as they get olderNo an expensive expensivecare care home Stay independent at Noneed need for for an home Many people want to stay in their own home as they get older We believebeen in only the very care affordable cos Stay independent at home homebest with your your ownat livean in carer carer Stay independent at with own live in Featherbed Care hasStay providing live in carers since 1986 independent at home with your own in carer Stay independent home with your own livelive inpeople carer Many want to stay Featherbed Care has been providing live in carers since 1986 Many people want to stay in their own home as they get older We believe in onlyMany the people very best care at antheir affordable cost want to stay own home as they get older older Many people want tocarers stay in in their as as they get Many people stay insince theirown ownhome home they get older Featherbed Care been providing live into 1986 We believe in only the very best care athas an affordable cost want

Care in your own home

Care in your own home

Care in your own Carehome in your own home Care Care in in your your own own home Care ownhome home Care in your

in y

We believe in only the very best care at has an affordable cost Featherbed Care been providing providing live in in carers since since 1986 1986 Featherbed Care has bee Featherbed Care has been live carers Featherbed Care hasthe been providing liveat in an carers since 1986 We believe in only very best care affordable cost Featherbed Care has been providing live in carers since We believe in 1986 only the v We believe in only the very best care at an affordable cost We believe in only the very best care at an affordable cost We believe in only the very best care at an affordable cost

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November 2021

n ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

Traditional funerals still chosen most often

‘DIRECT to cremation’ might appear trendy, but it’s not for everyone.

It is easy to be swept away with the latest fads and trends.

Perhaps we can forgive David Bowie for making ‘direct to cremation’ funerals fashionable as he didn’t want anyone at his funeral. ‘Direct to cremation’ is a funeral that has no service, no flowers, no minister or celebrant and certainly no congregation.

Such funerals are an option to be considered where money is an issue or very few people are able to attend a service.

Lack of available finance can sometimes be an important factor too. However, given the choice, I still believe that most people see a final farewell as a way to recognise and honour someone’s life and the difference they made in ours.

At Wells Funeral Services we

like to make funerals less of an undertaking, it is our goal to ensure that we reflect the person lost in a celebration of their life, enabling family, friends and colleagues to move forward in a dignified and respectful way.

Here at Wells Funeral Services, as I reflect on the past few months, our records show that Somerset does not have many David Bowie funeral followers. Money hasn’t been a deciding factor.

A ‘direct to cremation’ funeral costs somewhere between £997 and £1,499 and we have only delivered two such funerals.

Ninety-five per cent of our funerals have been traditional funerals. A hearse, limousine, flowers and order of service.

The cost of this can be anywhere between £2,995 and £4,495.

It’s true that the nature of funerals has changed, and there have been times in the past 18 months or so when the government has limited the number of attendees at any service. This I am sure has created division amongst those who were chosen to attend and those who were not.

However, with this restriction on the number of people that were allowed to be present and our new-found ability to handle Zoom and Facetime meetings, we have seen increased interest in live broadcasting of services on YouTube and Facebook.

Many of us have friends and family living all over the world so I think we will see increased demand for the use of Zoomtype technology in the future.

Crematoriums and churches

are installing broadband and webcams, providing varying degrees of quality and viewpoint.

Surely this is a good thing if it allows relatives who cannot be there for health reasons, perhaps, or friends who live elsewhere in the world to attend and pay their respects.

And maybe the trend towards ‘direct to cremation’ will increase here in Somerset if finances tighten. The jury is still out.

What I am sure of is that our departure from this world will be just as it has always been.

Respectful and with love.

For certain, the way those of us who are left behind say farewell opens up options we never imagined when we came into this world. Keeping your options open is always a good thing.

Rodney Major Wells Funeral Services

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n NEWS

Chance to see dress and stories it tells SOMERSET-BASED artist Kirstie Macleod will be bringing her exhibition of The Red Dress to the Connect Centre in Wells in November.

The Red Dress Project provides an artistic platform for individuals around the world, many of whom are marginalised and live in poverty, to tell their personal stories through embroidery.

During 12 years, from 2009 to 2021, the Red Dress travelled the globe being continuously embroidered. Constructed out of 73 pieces of burgundy silk dupion, the garment has been worked on by 231 women and four men from 28 countries.

The dress will be exhibited at the Connect Centre on Wednesday, November 10, and Friday, November 12; open to the public from 12pm-2pm, and open for meaningful engagement

For 12 years, the Red Dress travelled the globe being continuously embroidered

with the Connect Community from 2pm-3.30pm.

Rachel Inman, Connected Housing First Service Leader, said: “We hope it will be an opportunity for the Wells

community to see that what we do here at Connect is open to everyone, not just those experiencing hardship, isolation, and disconnection. We are passionate about diversity,

equity and inclusion and as our mission statement puts it, that everyone has something to give and everyone has something they need.”

A Community Lunch is offered at the Connect Centre every Wednesday from 12pm2pm.

This is a two-course, sit down meal with both meat and vegetarian options which is open to the whole community and a favourite day of the week for those who work at the Centre.

On Fridays from 12pm-2pm there is a Soup and Music Drop In when a local musician plays tunes, and learns and teaches songs with anyone who goes along.

“Again this is open to everyone in our community and we would love for more music lovers to come and participate,” said Rachel.

n SPORT Honours even when Mendip met Wells in Ladies Alliance match GOLF MENDIP Golf Club’s Ladies Alliance A Team completed their season when visiting near neighbours Wells. An excellent match resulted in honours even at 7-7. Wins came from Jinhee Page and Edwina Willis with team captain Marian Speed, Jenny Merrett and Chris Olds gaining hard fought for halves.

This leaves Mendip currently second in the table but with the team below having outstanding fixtures it is probable that Mendip will just miss out on promotion.

After a series of stunning performances against some very strong opposition, Mendip reached the final of the Somerset County Pickeridge Bowl scratch singles event. Unfortunately team captain and strongest player Tom Small was unavoidably unable to play. However the team put up a fine battle at Burnham & Berrow and just went down by the finest of margins to Tall Pines.

Fifteen-year-old Ellen Reakes played for Somerset in the English Women’s County Final

of the team event and played a full part when winning one and halving her other two foursomes matches. Somerset finished as runners up to Surrey. Aimee Sawyer was a non-playing reserve for Somerset. Ellen has also been awarded her Somerset 2nd team colours having now played eight times for the team.

For the second year running Mendip met Oake Manor in the final of the Somerset County Seniors Scratch Cup. Mendip again came off second best but only after a very close match.

Ian Perkins and Chris Lindley recorded excellent wins to leave the match at 2-2 and team captain Martin Myers only just lost the decider at the first extra hole after the match finished all square after 18.

The Juniors held their championships with Gross, Net and a 9-hole category. The 18 medal was won by 3-handicap Thomas Richardson with a gross 85, one shot ahead of his sister Ffion who won the net prize. The 18-hole stableford went to Henry Lewer with 32 points, and Ollie Roach won the 9-hole event.

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Action from the Premier Cup game at the Athletic Ground on October 5 between Wells City 1st team, in blue, and Shepton Mallet, which Wells won 3-2. The win, against higher division opposition, continued a good run for Wells 1sts, who had also beaten local rivals Cheddar 4-0 in the league a few days earlier. A more recent league game at home to Hengrove Athletic on October 9 was drawn 1-1.

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November 2021

n AROUND THE SOCIETIES WELLS U3A ALTHOUGH Covid numbers rose in Mendip in October, many of Wells u3a members gradually started to meet up again in person having taken suitable precautions to feel safe.

The Opera Group is an example of this: U3a Wells Opera Group began the winter season with a meeting in September at a new spacious venue in Wells Town Hall. They meet once a month on a Friday afternoon to watch an opera DVD followed by discussion. If you enjoy watching a variety of opera in a friendly and comfortable space this might be for you. Currently we have five vacancies then a waiting list applies. Pre-booking essential in these Covid days.

The Shakespeare Group held its first meeting since the lockdown on September 28. It was lovely to be back and see old familiar faces and welcome some new ones. When they last met in March 2020 they were part way through King John and never did get to the end as lockdown intervened, but they knew it did not end well for King John. The group have Othello lined up for their next play.

The Out and About Group have started to go “out and about”, firstly to the Bristol Blue Glass Factory in Brislington, where a full demonstration was given of glass blowing along with the history and geology of glass.

Soon after that visit members were divided into two groups for a guided tour of the City of Wells Almshouses first set up in 1436 by Nicholas Bubwith, Bishop of Bath and Wells, to support 24 elderly poor men and women and became known as Bubwith’s hospital. This building still survives today and provides a chapel for the residents, known as the Bubwith chapel. There is now a restoration project to raise funds for desperately needed repairs on this old part of the almshouses to be able to provide a warm, safe, accessible place for the whole community of Wells to enjoy.

The houses we see today were built in the 17th century and still provide a mixture of onebedroom flats and cottages for single occupancy to local people aged 50 and over.

The Sunday Lunch Group is now up and running having met twice, firstly at the Cheese Yard in Horrington and then The

2.15pm at St Thomas’ Church Hall, Wells.

Why not join us? Beginners and experienced flower arrangers are very welcome.

Jenny Jones WELLS WI

The Wells u3a Sunday Lunch Group at The Mendip Inn Mendip Inn at Oakhill.

Local History Group: Just as the weather turns against ice-cream and candyfloss, the talk in October was the story of Clevedon Pier. Or, as our speaker describes it, “Clevedon Pier – a story of ambition, decadence, decay, restoration and glory.” I suspect that “decadence” relates to the decaying ironwork rather than pier-goers’ behaviour, but we can live in hope. The speaker, Phil Curme, Chair of the Clevedon Pier and Heritage Trust, told the fascinating story of the pier, from its inception, and coming right up to date when the Grade I listed pier (the only one in the UK) won the accolade of Pier of the Year for an unprecedented third time in 2021.

If you are tempted by any of these groups or would like to find out about all the groups on offer, come and join us along with other perks that you can enjoy being a member of Wells u3a.

Just go to our website u3asites. org.uk/wells/home Ann Brown and group leaders WELLS & DISTRICT CENTRE NATIONAL TRUST WELLS & District Centre National Trust would like to invite non-members to a lecture

by Paul Atterbury entitled 40 Years of The Antiques Roadshow: A Personal View.

This is being held at Henton Village Hall on Saturday, December 11, at 2pm – £5 per person.

As numbers are limited please contact Diana Keen to reserve your place. Email dianastaceykeen@gmail.com or mobile 07702 658946.

To advertise, contact Andy on 01749 675157

Wells Floral Art Club met again in September, with a demonstration entitled Autumn WELLS FLORAL ART CLUB IT gives me great pleasure to announce that our club has reconvened after almost 18 months.

Our first meeting was held in September in St Thomas’ Church Hall when members of Frome Flower Club entertained us with a demonstration entitled Autumn. A range of traditional, modern and ikebana style arrangements were demonstrated.

Now, Christmas is upon us and on Tuesday, November 9, at 7.30pm we will be holding our annual open meeting in The Little Theatre, Wells, when Arnaud Metairie will bring us a Winter Wonderland. French born Arnaud is an awardwinning florist and demonstrator now residing in the Cotswolds.

Doors open at 6.30pm for a glass of wine and perusal of the sales table.

Tickets are £12 and are available from our treasurer Gill Cook on 01749 870389 or gillcook@gmail.com In January we will begin a full year of meetings starting on Tuesday, January 11, 2022, at

ANOTHER hybrid meeting in October with most members in the room, and some joining via Zoom.

President Anne reminded us about ordering diaries, calendars and tickets for the Somerset WI Christmas carol service at Wells Cathedral. She mentioned crafting workshops at Keepers, and that some members will be joining the literary lunch at Wells Festival of Literature later this month. Possibilities for our Christmas meal (traditionally enjoyed in January when women are less busy!) are being discussed with Rugantino.

On the public affairs front we are trying to support national campaigns at a local level. We hope to support a local refuge for women escaping domestic violence; and have asked the Diocese of Bath and Wells how we might get involved in their work combating modern slavery through the Clewer initiative.

The Christmas gift shoeboxes this year will be going to Wells Foodbank clients.

Janette announced an exciting raffle and dangled in front of us a beautiful Mulberry handbag. Because the bags are made in Somerset the company wants to raise funds for Somerset Community Foundation, which make grants to hundreds of local charities, by raffling a bag with a retail value of £950. There was quite a stampede of members putting their names down for tickets at £5 or three for £10, so hopefully someone will get a special Christmas present and many worthy causes will benefit.

Our speaker was Rachel Wild, of Wild as the Wind, talking about the healing powers of essential oils. Rachel told us that most oils we buy contain synthetic ingredients to ensure commercial consistency but that the chemicals they contain can be harmful, so caution is required when burning smelly candles. The high cost of some authentic essential oils reflects the labour-intensive production methods – rose damascene costs hundreds of pounds

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n AROUND THE SOCIETIES because pickers work at dawn, and trees are tapped to produce frankincense. Some oils are distilled with steam and some, like citrus zests, produced by rolling with cold steel.

Rachel told us that 70 per cent of commercial pharmaceuticals are synthesised versions of plants, which she calls nature’s pharmacopeia: rosemary, lemon, Cananga, copaiba, sandalwood, geranium, lavender and myrrh among others. Some have antiinflammatory or anti-fungal properties, some aid sleep, or digestion. She passed round some, and people picked up different aromas – it is said you smell what you might need, so those detecting orange might have tummy trouble. Rachel used to sell products including her renowned facial oils at Wells Market, but now operates an online shop. Before she finished, she kindly offered to respond to any individual questions from members by email.

Our next meeting will be on November 2.

More information can be found on our Facebook page.

Veronica Howe

After long and devoted service to the Society a number of committee members will not be standing for re-election at the AGM so nominations for new members will be very welcome.

Voluntary organisations like the Civic Society cannot continue and thrive without the support and engagement of members. As a registered charity there are also a number of obligations in terms of officers and reporting, and whilst these are not onerous, they are important.

The Wells Society has traditionally been consulted by local government on a range of issues and has initiated and partnered a variety of local projects. Chair, Chris Winter, said: “We will be sharing the Queen’s Jubilee next year as 2022 is also the Society’s 70th anniversary and I hope that we will continue to help to ‘conserve the history and enhance the future’ of the city of Wells for many years to come.”

For further information see www.wellscivicsociety.org.uk or contact chris.f.winter@ btinternet.com.

WELLS CIVIC SOCIETY

WELLS & DISTRICT GARDENING CLUB

IT was exactly a year and a half ago that Wells Civic Society members last met, but catching the last of the warm, light evenings, they were finally able to get together to enjoy what has become the traditional Summer Social fare of strawberries and fizz.

The next meeting will be on November 10 at Wells Museum when the Annual General Meeting at 7pm will be followed by a talk by the former Museum Director and current Chair of the Society of Friends of the Fleet Air Arm Museum, Graham Mottram.

ACCORDING to Keats we are in the middle of the season of “mists and mellow fruitfulness”.

Heaven knows what the Romantic reaction would be to the current climatic upheaval.

But then, as the man said, “What are Keats?”.

One dullish morning of last month, the mists over the Mendips lifted as members’ cars dropped down into the Avon valley towards Chelwood on a visit to those magnificent gardens of Lady Farm. As the enthusiastic owner Judy Pearce led us around the site on various levels it

Wells Civic Society members enjoy a long-awaited get together

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Wells & District Gardening Club members enjoying coffee and cake during their visit to Lady Farm was abundantly clear why this garden is so highly rated. It has everything to appeal to a variety of garden enthusiasts; a topiary enclosure of clipped hedging and box balls, wide lawns sweeping down to ponds and lakes, large plantings of herbaceous mixed with grasses, mature trees beautifully positioned to enhance the whole prospect.

The first time that the club paid a visit was at least a couple of decades ago when our guide was Mary Payne who had designed the huge border in the new prairie style and introduced us to the name of Piet Oudolf.

Grasses are now more familiar to us as is the name of Oudolf with his design in Bruton and internationally. These influences get toned down and incorporated according to the individual taste and needs of each gardener whether amateur or professional.

As they are at Lady Farm, where coffee and excellent cake baked

by Judy’s husband, Malcolm rounded off a morning of delights.

The previous month saw us a little further to the west at Holt Farm, the resplendent gardens of Yeo Valley Farmers in Blagdon.

Furthermore, this organic garden was the inspiration for a Gold winning award at Chelsea which to Somerset’s gratification also won the People’s Choice award in the face of fierce competition.

Again, the influence of the prairie was evident.

Add to these the lovely gardens of Watcombe, The Bishop’s Palace, Stoberry and Milton Lodge, and Wells Gardening Club calendar of events for 2021 saw off the dullness of the restrictions we were and are all enduring.

Thanks to Sue Campbell for whose enthusiasm and planning we owe much of our gardening

pleasure this year.

Next year’s programme presents another challenge.

Various events are being pencilled in and we live in hope that these will all take place in normal circumstances. We have a number of special guest speakers in mind including Helen Yemm and Timothy Walker of Somerville College, and are trusting that the greater picture will not interfere. At the time of writing, an Indian summer is brightening this elongated autumn and wiping out the memory of those dull, rainy days which was, as Alan Bennett wrote, “like living inside Tupperware”.

Pip Harwood WELLS TWINNING ASSOCIATION WE are pleased to announce that Wells Twinning Association have met for a committee meeting, after 18 long months. The committee are pleased to resume and to make plans for the coming year.

The first event for Wells Twinning will be A Revival Christmas Social which will take place on December 11, 2021, at the Seager Hall, Wells. Tickets will be available shortly.

As we were unable to hold our Annual General Meeting last year, we can now confirm that the 2022 Annual General Meeting will be held on Monday, March 7, 2022, at Wells Town Hall at 7.30pm.

If you have any questions, queries or you would like further information, please contact Dawn Payne either by email, dawn_payne@hotmail.co.uk, mobile 07977 627443 or phone 01749 675858. u More reports on page 44

Email: news@wellsvoice.co.uk

44

n AROUND THE SOCIETIES WELLS MEN’S BREAKFAST WELLS Men’s Breakfast welcomes men of all ages to a good English breakfast and a talk by a guest speaker. We meet on the first Saturday of every month except August.

There is no formal membership – just book in by answering the monthly email, or by telephone. Meetings are at the Connect Centre and start at 8am, ending at about 9.30am. The cost is £10.

November’s talk is Understanding the Mandelbrot Set, a layman’s introduction to the beauty of maths. This may sound a little daunting, but our speaker will ensure that all is explained – there is nothing to fear!

If you are interested, send an email to wmb.bookings@ btinternet.com or telephone 01749 675312.

A large blue butterfly that Eric Lewis photographed on a Somerset Wildlife Trust summer outing SOMERSET WILDLIFE TRUST LIKE many other organisations the Wells Area Group of the Trust had to suspend most live events due to Covid restrictions, although our members have been able to take part in a variety of Zoom talks featuring speakers from around the country who we would not otherwise have been able to hear.

We have continued with some of our outdoor events throughout last summer, albeit with reduced numbers, and members were able to take part in new events such as moth trapping/ identification and spotting the rare large blue butterfly for the first time. It is hoped that a full programme of outdoor events can be reinstated in 2022.

In the meantime we are continuing with Zoom speakers at least until December when we will be holding our first ‘live’

wellsvoice n NEWS

indoor meeting since restrictions were first imposed. This will provide an opportunity for our members to renew acquaintances and catch up with what has been going on locally in the world of wildlife conservation.

As we awaken from our Covid induced torpor our committee is keen to hear from anyone with an interest in wildlife who can help us plan and organise our events as we go forward. If you are enthusiastic about helping wildlife and preserving the environment we would love to hear from you. Please email in the first instance to Eric Lewis (eric.lewis@btinternet.com) or Jean Mantle (jaye.mantle@ btinternet.com).

Eric Lewis WOOKEY HOLE LADIES CLUB WOOKEY Hole Ladies Club started as a church group of ladies, run by the then vicar’s wife, in the early Seventies.

Meetings were held in the evenings in church. These days we meet in the village community hall, although we no longer have a connection with the church. We still have some founder members living in the village. Subscription is £3 per year and £2 per meeting, this covers the village hall rent, fees for speakers and members’ refreshments.

We normally meet on the first Tuesday of the month, from 2.30pm-4pm; in July we have our annual outing and in August we meet in a member’s garden for tea and cakes. In December we have our annual Christmas lunch in a nearby pub.

The committee meets at members’ homes three times a year to discuss forthcoming events and set the programme for the next year, which coincides with the academic year, September to September.

We currently have 23 members and new members are always welcome, including ladies from outside Wookey Hole. We have speakers on subjects such as avoiding scams, local history, bats and equestrian experiences.

Our next meeting is on November 2 at the Wookey Hole Community Hall, when we will be making decorations with the expert help of our local artist.

We would love to see new ladies there.

Linda Danson

To advertise, contact Andy on 01749 675157

November 2021

The Mayor presented Ann Henderson with flowers to mark her long service watched by Geraldine Mahoney, the Mayoress, Kate Buckley and trustee Margaret Wilson

Bouquet of flowers given to long-serving staff member WELLS is blessed with many hidden gems.

One which few people know about is Abbeyfield House in New Street.

It is a charity which provides comfortable and homely accommodation in a detached building with a large garden near the city centre.

“Food is a big highlight of the day for our residents which was emphasised by the cream tea laid on by the staff for a visit by the Mayor and Mayoress of Wells, Philip and Caroline Welch,” said Abbeyfield’s administrator Isobel Panton.

“We were delighted to invite the Mayor and Mayoress for a cream tea with our residents, staff and trustees. Our civic guests were able to see firsthand how our residents enjoy independence and friendship

while living in a happy and secure environment.

“A bouquet of flowers was presented to Ann Henderson who has just celebrated 20 years of working at Abbeyfield. Ann started in 2001 and is a highly valued member of the team.”

Margaret Wilson, vice-chair of the trustees, introduced a new member of staff, Geraldine Mahoney, who has joined as a housekeeper, to the Mayor and Mayoress.

“Geraldine had worked as a chef at the Britannia Inn in Bath Road, Wells, for 13 years so has a lot of catering experience and settled in very well,” said Margaret.

“We are lucky to have such a dedicated and hard-working team of staff who have kept the residents safe and well during Covid.”

A Call My Art Bluff event at Cedars Hall raised more than £11,000 for The Lawrence Centre and Project Factory. Pictured from left are panellists Jonathan Rugman, Neil Tully and Hettie Judah, who tried to convince the audience they were telling the truth about five works of art, and Tom Killen, who hosted proceedings and conducted the auction and raffle.

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November 2021

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n WHAT’S ON Gift possibilities at Christmas market

Wednesday, October 27, at 11am and 2.30pm. The storytelling – suitable for six- to ten-year-olds, although everyone is welcome – will be followed by colouring fun and a mini writing workshop.

Admission is included with any valid Bishop’s Palace ticket.

THE Christmas Artisan Market will take place at The Bishop’s Palace on November 6 and 7 from 10am-4pm. The medieval rooms upstairs and downstairs will be filled with a variety of stalls, offering hand-made and unique gifts, and the cafe will be offering seasonal drinks.

Tickets are available at £8 Adult, Child 5-17 £4, Under 5s and Palace Members free, including entry to the whole site (normally £15), and are available from the ticket office, by telephone 01749 988 111 or online at www.bishopspalace. org.uk.

Shared reading PEOPLE are invited to “be part of a bigger story” by attending sessions of the Shared Reading group that meets every Friday at Wells Library in Union Street from 2pm-3.30pm.

Anyone interested can just drop in and enjoy listening to a story and poems – there is no need to book in advance and no pressure to talk or read.

More information is available online at www.thereader.org.uk

Tapestry of sounds UNIQUE improviser and multiinstrumentalist Jenny Bliss Bennett is bringing her talents to Wells in a series of concerts.

Jenny, of Glastonbury, has toured the world with many leading ensembles including the Academy of Ancient Music and the Mediaeval Baebes, and in these concerts she will weave a rich tapestry of sounds from the medieval and baroque period together with free improvisation.

She will perform on an array of ancient and modern instruments including baroque guitar, renaissance flute, violin and virginals.

The concerts will be at the Methodist Church in Southover on Saturday, November 6, and the United Church, Union Street, on Saturday, November 20, both at 7pm.

Tickets are £10 and available from www.jennybliss.co.uk

Table tennis nights WELLS Table Tennis Club meets every Wednesday at the Seager Hall, Union Street, Wells, from 6.30pm-9.30pm. For more details, email paulhambleton2@ btinternet.com

Top, the Christmas Artisan Market will take place at The Bishop’s Palace in November; above left, a painting by Sian Perry-Smith, and above right, ceramics by Kate Wilson will be on display at Heritage Courtyard Gallery

Art Winter Warmer THIS year’s Winter Warmer Exhibition at Heritage Courtyard Gallery, Sadler Street, Wells, should warm the creative soul.

It will showcase a wide array of work including paintings, ceramics and jewellery for visitors to choose from, and could provide that elusive gift for a discerning friend or partner.

The grand opening will take place on Tuesday, November 30. Doors will be open from

TAI CHI

th Tai Chi Heal

Connect Centre, Wells Mondays 6.30pm – 7.30pm £5 per class Bob 07791 291886

11am and there will be a warm welcome with mulled wine and mince pies.

The exhibition will continue until Saturday, December 18.

Open daily 10.30am-4pm, closed Sunday and Monday.

Stories for children STORYTELLER Beth Webb will make children laugh, squeal, and maybe shudder a little with her tales of pumpkins and spiders at The Bishop’s Palace on

Board game dates WELLS Board Game Group will meet at the Globe Inn, Wells, on November 3 and November 17 from 7pm-9.30pm.

Dance club sessions WELLS Folk and Barn Dance Club sessions will take place at Dinder Village Hall on Wednesdays from 7.30pm9.30pm until December 15.

Members £3.50, visitors £4. Tel: 01749 674920.

BRAND NEW YOGA CLASSES YOU DON'T NEED TO BE TRENDY, BENDY OR ZEN FOR YOGA New Beginners Classes starting Thursday 4 Nov 2021 9.30 to 10.30am 5.30 to 6.30pm

n DO YOU WANT YOUR EVENT TO STAND OUT? If you want to ensure your event is included and gets attention, we will print it with a colour background like this from just £7 + VAT. Find out more by emailing sales@wellsvoice.co.uk

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November 2021

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Keep up to date with your local news... wellsvoice www.twitter.com/wells_voice wellsvoice www.facebook.com/wellsvoice www.wellsvoice.co.uk Email: sales@wellsvoice.co.uk

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November 2021

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The Bishop's Palace, Wells

Christmas Artisan Market 6-7 November 2021 10am-4pm decorations, cards, unique, hand-made gifts & live musical perfomances

Special discounted entry: £8 Adults, £4 Child 5-18 www.bishopspalace.org.uk