Wells Voice September 2023

Signs let shoplifters know their deeds are common knowledge

STICKERS have begun appearing in shop windows and on market stalls in Wells to warn shoplifters that the eyes of the city are on them.

Images and video footage of suspects caught on shop cameras are being shared instantly on a WhatsApp group for the business community which more than 100 different retail outlets have joined.

“Shoplifters beware. We’ll all know you!” say the stickers, that have been subsidised by Wells Chamber of Commerce.

Chamber Chair Louis Agabani said: “The shoplifters need to know that when their image is caught on CCTV, the image is shared with all the other shops in Wells.”

He said that the next stage of the anti-crime campaign is to find a way of working more

closely with the police so that they can take more effective action against shoplifters. Discussions are continuing about the possibility of posting the images on social media.

In a further warning to shoplifters, Louis said that the CCTV cameras in Wells are all working and are being monitored

Wells Repair Cafe another success

and those stealing seem to be more brazen.

“We get a surprising number of people stealing eggs and other staples, and premium products such as antlers, that dogs chew on,” he said.

“Several market traders say they have issues.”

When Wells Voice reported on the shoplifting problem last month, PC Dan Williams said: “Wells Neighbourhood Police Team are working hard with local retailers to strengthen our relationship, increase the reporting of thefts and discuss ways to prevent shoplifting.

WELLS Repair Cafe had another successful event at Wells Library on August 5. They managed to fix 20 of the items that visitors took in – which included clocks, lamps, radios, a sewing machine, a rotary washing drier and a child’s ride-on electric car –saving the planet an estimated 487kg in carbon emissions.

Tom Muir of Brothers Muir Pet Supplies represents Wells market traders on the WhatsApp group.

He said that theft from the market stalls is quite common,

“We are increasing our efforts targeting our most prolific offenders causing harm to the area.”

u Shoplifting discussed at city council meeting, page 16

Wells Repair Cafe will next open its doors on Saturday, September 2, at St Thomas’ Church Hall, from 10am until 12.30pm. Contact Amanda Phillips (repaircafe.wells@gmail. com) with any queries or to get involved. On Sunday, September 3, a Freecycle event will be held from 1pm-2.30pm in Priory Road car park. This event is like a car boot sale but no money changes hands. People with items to give away should arrive by 1.30pm and remove anything that is not taken by the end. Contact Marianne Sorrell for more on this (marianne.sorrell@me.com).

Spellbinding books

‘We get a surprising number of people stealing eggs’

by police, which also helps in tackling anti-social behaviour and any other crime.

Pub opens doors again in its new guise

NEW boutique pub and B&B

The Sheep & Penguin in Tucker Street, Wells, has opened its doors.

Customers were invited in to see it for the first time at a launch event at 5pm on Friday, August 11, when complimentary canapés were served.

Formerly The Mermaid, the pub had been derelict for ten years before being acquired and renovated by Bristol-based Nick James and his family. The Sheep & Penguin is the second venue for the family, who own popular pub The Queens in Chew Magna.

The Wells venue, which also offers accommodation in the form of seven boutique guest rooms and four mews houses, will have a strong focus on seasonal, locally sourced food, real ales and cocktails, they say.

The pub’s new food menu has been created by Head Chef

Andy Scarott, whose resumé includes the critically acclaimed The Gannet in Glasgow. As well as pub classic dishes, the menu will include global influences and use seasonal produce from local suppliers.

The drinks menu includes a wide range of locally sourced beers and real ales, as well as a carefully curated wine and cocktail menu created by General Manager Jan Forster, who was previously bar manager at The Pig at Hunstrete.

Speaking about the new opening, the James family said: “We acquired the site for The Sheep & Penguin well before lockdown, and have spent years meticulously renovating this historic pub back to its former glory, and we can’t wait to bring a real community hub with great food, beers and service to Wells.

“We really wanted to stay true

to the pub’s history and retain as much of that ‘proper pub’ feel as possible, and are so excited to share it with the locals and visitors to this wonderful corner of Somerset.”

The new name, The Sheep &

Penguin, has its own anecdote, paying homage to the Falkland Islands Agency that operated next door. But the family say that one of the staff can reveal more about the story behind its origin over a pint or cocktail.

from £995

from £55 per month

General Manager Jan Forster, left, and Dan Peters behind the bar at The Sheep & Penguin on opening night, and some views of the pub’s interior

Mayor seeks past owner of wedding dress

WELLS Mayor Councillor Tanys Pullin has set her heart on finding the previous owner of a wedding dress that she bought for her Mayor’s New Clothes project after it was donated to a charity shop.

The project involves transforming used wedding dresses into beautiful ballgowns which will eventually be

auctioned in aid of the Mayor’s chosen charities, Heads Up and Whizz-Kidz.

Cllr Pullin bought the dress –and two others, to help get the project going – at the Sue Ryder shop in Shepton Mallet. The shop, which has a special bridal department, raises money to help support people through difficult times in their lives such

as a terminal illness or the death of someone close to them.

“I was told that the lady donated it because she loved her husband so much and after his death she wanted to give her dress to Sue Ryder to help other people to get over their grief,” said Cllr Pullin.

“She begged shop staff to get as much as she could for her

beautiful gown. I was so touched by this story I gave nearly £300 for the dress.”

Dozens of groups and individuals are working on transforming wedding dresses into ballgowns for the project, and a number of sponsorships and donations have already been made. The finished dresses will feature at a fashion show in the Cathedral in the new year, and be auctioned off at an event in the Town Hall.

“So many people are being so kind,” said Cllr Pullin.

There is still time to get involved. Contact Cllr Pullin by emailing T.pullin@wells.gov.uk or calling 07976 756108.

Wells Mayor Tanys Pullin would like to find the previous owner of this wedding dress that she bought in a charity shop

Store powers ahead with solar energy

By Emma James

MICHELLE Machin, owner of Whiting & Son, is becoming accustomed to a new source of energy at the much-loved High Street store. Established in 1936, and run by third and fourth generations of the same family, Whiting & Son sells almost everything you could need for your home. And it is now helping the climate following the installation of its 15 photovoltaic panels with two back-up batteries. The panels react to light intensity and are capable of producing 5.2kW of power per day.

Michelle is no stranger to solar energy having installed panels in her home ten years ago. She explains: “Our fixed term contract was coming to an end here in September so it seemed the right thing to do. We are lucky in that we own the building and so the decision was ours

to make. The panels were not going to be visible either so no planning was required. It’s more complicated than a domestic installation because we need a three-phase supply but actually it all happened very quickly – half a day for the panels which are on inclined flat roofs and a day and a half for the electrics.”

Getting used to the new system takes time (the panels have only been in situ for a month), however, signs are that

FUTURE SALES - ENTRIES INVITED

INTERIORS & COLLECTABLES

Tuesday 5 September at 10am

Viewing: Monday 4 September,10 - 7

FINE ART, ANTIQUES & MILITARIA

Saturday 9 September at 10am

Viewing: Thursday 7 September, 10 - 6

Friday 8 September, 10 - 7

MODERN DESIGN, INTERIORS & COLLECTABLES

Tuesday 19 September at 10am

Viewing: Monday 18 September,10 - 7

SPORTING, FINE WINES & SPIRITS

Thursday 28 September at 6pm

Viewing: Wednesday 27 September,10 - 5.30

Thursday 28 September, from 10am

VALUATION DAYS AT THE AUCTION ROOMS

Silver & Jewellery - every Monday

Open for valuations of all items between 10am and 3pm

Monday to Thursday (no appointment necessary). Free home visits available. House clearances arranged.

average usage in summertime is 2.5kW a day with 2.5kW going back to the grid. In winter months, when light levels are low, it will make sense to charge the battery at night and then use power from the grid during the day. The system should start paying for itself in ten years’ time. Plans to make the Sherborne store sustainable are in the pipeline.

Michelle’s son, Anthony says: “It’s good to know that we have control over our own destiny. All our tills run on a single server at the back of the shop. So, if there’s a power cut now, we can keep going, which will make a big difference to us.”

But the motive for the switch to solar is not just financial. Whiting & Son already has a good environmental track record having recycled plastic and cardboard for more than ten years. Michelle explains: “The idea is that we become

even more sustainable. We always try to have a low carbon footprint. We have one planet and we have to look after it for our grandchildren. I would recommend investigating the idea of solar panels to everyone.”

Denise Denis, Chair of Wells City Council’s Planning & Environment committee, reacted very enthusiastically to the recent innovations at Whiting & Son. The city council passed a motion in 2019, declaring a Climate Emergency and pledging to work towards a carbon neutral position by 2030. Denise says: “We were delighted and very encouraged to learn that Whitings, a much-respected High Street trader, has taken the brave step to invest in solar panels and be grid-free wherever possible. This is a significant step towards carbon reduction and it is hoped it will encourage other shops and homes to do the same.”

Rookery Farm, Binegar, Somerset. BA3 4UL. Tel: +44 (01749) 840770 | e. enquiries@mendipauctionrooms.co.uk mendipauctionrooms.co.uk

Michelle Machin at Whiting & Son

Sapphire and cultured pearl necklace in Indian

CONTACTS

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

LOCAL INFORMATION

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

YOUR VIEWS

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

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

OCTOBER DEADLINE

To ensure your news or letter is included in the October issue please contact us by September 13.

COMPLAINTS

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

PUBLISHER’S NOTE: Wells Voice is independent. We cannot take responsibility for content or accuracy of adverts, and it is advertisers’ responsibility to conform to all relevant legislation. We cannot vouch for any services offered. Opinions are not necessarily those of the editor. Wells Voice is distributed each month to residents. Feedback is always welcomed – email news@wellsvoice.co.uk. This month 7,100 copies will be distributed around Wells and surrounding villages.

Van selling refreshments at the Rec for trial period

WELLS City Council is trialling a refreshments kiosk on the Recreation Ground to provide coffees, ice cream and hot and cold food to visitors this summer.

As part of an initiative led by Matt Johnson, Open Spaces Officer, and the new Open Spaces Committee, the converted 1950s Citroen van will be open on a trial basis for families using the playground and enjoying the park and Rec in the summer holidays. It comes following

feedback from the public about a lack of places to buy snacks and refreshments by the children’s playground.

Councillor Jasmine Browne, Deputy Mayor of Wells and Chair of the Open Spaces Committee, said: “We would welcome ideas to make better public use of the Recreation Ground, especially for music and family events. Please get in touch with Wells City Council for the attention of the Open Spaces Committee.”

Lynnsey closes her flower shop

FLORIST Lynnsey Kelly has closed her shop on Priest Row, Wells.

She is swapping working six days a week creating floral arrangements and wreaths at Lynnsey Kelly Flowers for something less stressful – taking still-life photographs of flowers.

“The floristry world has changed so much,” she said.

“I am planning to work part time and to pursue my still-life photography.”

Lynnsey started her floristry business in Wells in 2001 with a twice-weekly stall at Wells Market. In 2013, she took over a long-standing flower shop on Priest Row, transforming it into an elegant, calm oasis to reflect her style.

== Steve Collins == Garden & Lawn

The Moss family and their helpers on the Rec with their Citroen van that has been converted into a mobile cafe Picture: Philip Welch

Vet sets himself testing cycle challenge

A WELLS vet will be attempting to cycle past every vet practice in Somerset over two days in September to raise money for a mental health support charity for the veterinary profession.

Oscar Sinfield is embarking on his epic cycle ride in aid of Vetlife on Friday, September 8, and Saturday, September 9, a journey of approximately 400 miles that will take in 130 practices.

He will be cycling past the practice that he works at in Wells, Westfield Vets on Westfield Road, at 7.25am on September 9, followed by Axe Valley Vets at 7.30am and Wells Vets at 7.35am.

He would welcome people joining him for parts of the route, which will start at Evolution Farm Vets at 6am on September 8, and is due to finish at Langford Vets at 6.55pm on September 9.

Oscar – who also works at

Summer Lane Veterinary Centre in Worle – hopes the event will help to raise money for Vetlife and inspire others to enjoy the mental health benefits of getting out in the countryside.

He said: “My goals for the event are to raise awareness about mental health within the veterinary profession and demonstrate how being in the countryside can boost wellbeing.

Along the way, I’m keen to fundraise as much as possible for Vetlife.

“Vetlife has done so much for the veterinary profession with regards to making mental health support more accessible. Having that knowledge that they are there personally provides a lot of comfort in what can sometimes be quite a lonely and isolating profession.”

Vetlife is experiencing unprecedented demand for its three support services, with the charity’s expenditure likely to exceed £1 million for the first time in 2023.

Fellow cyclist and Vetlife trustee Danny Chambers said: “I know how painful it is to cycle up Cheddar Gorge in North Somerset, so I am in awe that Oscar is cycling a 400-mile route around that terrain to visit every vet practice in Somerset in two days.

“I’m sure in his brief visits to each practice he’ll get a warm welcome and some sustenance to help him along to his next pit stop. Thank you to Oscar for his enthusiasm and support.”

For more information on how to get involved with the cycle, visit the Ride SomerVet Facebook group.

Donations to the fundraiser can be made via the Ride SomerVet JustGiving page.

Oscar Sinfield’s cycle ride for Vetlife will take place on September 8 and 9

Wells City Council Wells Civic Awards – Nomination Form

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 Citizen of the Year:

Name of nominee:_________________________

l Volunteer of the Year:

Reason for nominating:

Name of nominee:_________________________ Reason for nominating:____________________________________

l Community Organisation of the Year:

Name of nominee:_________________________

l Business of the Year:

Reason for nominating:

Name of nominee:_________________________ Reason for nominating:

l Senior Sportsperson of the Year (18 or over):

Name of nominee:_________________________ Reason for nominating:

l Junior Sportsperson of the Year (under 18):

Name of nominee:_________________________ Reason for nominating:

l Young Person of the Year (under 18):

Name of nominee:_________________________ Reason for nominating:

l Environmental Champion:

Name of nominee:_________________________ Reason for nominating:

l 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/WellsAwards2023

To advertise, contact Andy on 01749 675157 Email: sales@wellsvoice.co.uk

‘Honouring people who make a difference’

Chance to say who deserves an award

WELLS City Council, in partnership with Wells Voice, is inviting nominations for Civic Awards that will honour those who make a difference.

The Wells Civic Awards have nine categories that aim to recognise the contribution shown by individuals, groups and businesses to the service of the local community.

The winners will be announced at a gala ceremony at the Town Hall on Friday, January 12, when they will each receive an awards memento.

The categories are:

n Citizen of the Year: A person who has made an important contribution through their work in the community.

n Volunteer of the Year: Someone who has given their time voluntarily for the benefit of the community.

n Community Organisation of the Year: A voluntary organisation delivering a service to the community.

n Business of the Year: A business which has supported or worked with the community.

n Senior Sportsperson of the Year: Someone aged 18 or over who has had an impact in the world of sport.

n Junior Sportsperson of the Year: Someone aged under 18 who has had an impact in the world of sport.

n Young Person of the Year: Someone aged under 18 who has given their time to support the community.

n Environmental Champion: An individual/ business/organisation that has demonstrated a proactive

approach to environmental issues.

n Extra Mile Award: Someone who has gone above and beyond in providing a service to the community.

Nominations can be made by completing the form on the left, cutting it out 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/WellsAwards2023

The closing date for nominations is Saturday, November 11, 2023.

There is an opportunity for local businesses to support the awards by sponsoring the different categories. Those interested should email reception@wells.gov.uk

This is the second time that the council has organised such awards. The first took place in 2021.

HSBC assessing use of pop-ups

HSBC is monitoring the use of the pop-up service in Wells Library to see whether there is enough customer demand for them to continue.

The last scheduled pop-ups are due to take place at the library on August 24, September 8 and September 21.

Wells resident Beryl Fricker, who led a campaign against the closure of the HSBC bank branch

at Market Place, gathering more than 500 signatures on a petition in the process, is calling for more people to make use of the pop-ups.

“I would urge people to use a facility that we fought for in the first place when the bank closed,” she said.

“The more people that make use of the pop-ups, the more likely they are to continue.”

Councillor Jasmine Browne, who instigated the awards in 2021, holding an example of the sort of trophy that the winners will receive

Hot Fuzz to feature as church gets creative

By Emma James

PLANNING is well under way for the annual Heritage Open Day at St Cuthbert’s Church in Wells which will take place on Saturday, September 16, at 3pm.

This year’s theme is Creativity Unwrapped, and creativity is certainly in evidence as Churchwarden, Antonia Gwynn, has penned a series of ‘panto style’ dramas featuring heroes and villains and designed to reveal the secrets and treasures of St Cuthbert’s history.

Everyone is welcome and the audience will be encouraged to boo and cheer as some of the dramatic stories of the church are brought to life. Visitors can expect to travel back in time to the 15th century and then forward to Victorian times meeting bishops, monks, saints and prophets along the way. They will learn about the craftsmen and builders who

developed the church over the centuries. And yes, a tower was demolished – but which one?

After returning to the present day, visitors will be able to enjoy cream teas, home-made cakes and light refreshments. It’s a free event and no booking is required. Further information is available from the church office: office@ stcuthbertswells.co.uk

As a warm up to the Heritage

Cornettos will be on sale when St Cuthbert’s Church harks back to Hot Fuzz

Open Day, and as further evidence that St Cuthbert’s Church inspires a whole range of creativity, the tower will be open to visitors and fans of the film Hot Fuzz on Saturday, September 9, from 2pm to 5pm. Director Edgar Wright chose to film a fête in the churchyard as well as Tim Messenger’s untimely death, a particularly gruesome murder.

We’re the REAL DEAL

Organisers have decided against re-enacting the famous scene, but intend to hold a draw during each tour, the winner of which will be allowed to push a ‘pinnacle’ off the tower. All health and safety rules will be observed! Once down from the tower, visitors will be able to buy a cornetto from a policeman to help transport them down Hot Fuzz memory lane.

A tower trip costs £5 for adults and £2.50 for children (816) and can be booked using the email address above. Booking is recommended as places are limited.

Climbing the tower can be combined with the popular Hot Fuzz Walking Tour, also taking place on Saturday, September 9. This takes fans to the main film locations in Wells as well as revealing some secrets about the making of the film. Bookings can be made at wellswalkingtours. co.uk

Since 1977 West Country Windows has been run and owned by the same family owners who have stayed true to their word, consistently delivering the best products and service.

We manufacture and install windows, doors and conservatories using only the very best in materials and technology, and don’t forget, all installations come with an unbeatable 15 year guarantee.

Parking consultation outcome awaited

RESIDENTS of St Thomas Street, Wells, are awaiting the outcome of a consultation about a residents’ parking scheme.

Somerset Council has been gauging opinion on the possible introduction of permits for people who live on the street, following a similar consultation in Tor Street where a proposal to introduce resident parking is being prepared.

Michael Shaw says a large number of people are in favour of resident parking in St Thomas Street, where he lives, to help tackle the parking and traffic issues they face every day.

“Parking is very problematic and has worsened after permits were started in the College Road and Stoberry Avenue area,” he said.

He said that cars park on double yellow lines resulting in traffic on pavements: “Traffic wardens don’t come up here, so it’s chaos quite often.”

He said that 87 residents have responded to the council in favour of the permits, although others are opposed, mainly on grounds of cost.

Somerset Council says that a first resident permit costs £60 per year, a second permit is £100 per year, a visitor permit is £60 per year and daily visitor permits are 30p each.

Simon Gibbons is another who lives on St Thomas Street and is in favour of residents’ parking. He said that the traffic has got a lot worse in the three years that he, his wife and family have lived there, and that the parking on the street is “a complete lottery”.

“Residents are now in a position where when you get a parking space, you don’t want to leave it in case there is nowhere to park when you return,” he said.

He said that congestion on the road – especially if vehicles park on yellow lines – means that cars, lorries and buses sometimes mount the pavement to get past, and that he has seen car wing mirrors hit people on the pavement.

“Fewer people trying to park would free up more space to enable passing of vehicles,” he said.

“It would also be helpful to

have CCTV on the street given the number of collisions that happen with parked cars where the culprits just drive off.”

Dennis Michelson and his wife have lived on the street for more than two years and have expressed their support for residents’ parking.

“It’s clearly a problem for residents and we hope that this goes forward,” said Dennis.

A recent planning application to convert a coach house off St Thomas Street into offices for up to 14 people has added to concerns for some people.

John Armitage, who lives next to the coach house, said that not only is the proposed development not in keeping with the area, but as there is no on-site parking, those travelling to the offices by car would almost certainly try to park locally.

“Residents are saying that this will increase the traffic congestion along St Thomas Street and further restrict the already limited parking, especially with the likely introduction of a residential parking scheme on Tor Street,” he said.

Documents with the planning application say that there will be one parking space, adding that the site has excellent public transport links, and the proposal would not result in any significant harm to the wider highways network.

Supporters of a permit scheme in St Thomas Street acknowledge that it would have a knock-on effect elsewhere in Wells as motorists seek alternative places to park, and there is a feeling that parking should be looked at across the city as a whole.

Tessa Munt, a Somerset Council councillor for Wells, said that residents’ parking is something that she is asked about constantly, and that opinion is divided on introducing a scheme in St Thomas Street.

She said: “I’ve been contacted by almost equal numbers of St Thomas Street residents in favour, and against, introducing residents’ parking permits.

“Over the last six years, I have been asked repeatedly by citizens about residents’ parking in street after street after street in Wells.

“We know our public transport system doesn’t serve our rural communities or our city well enough, which means we must often rely on cars for transport in and out of the city.

“If these residents’ parking schemes were all to become a reality over time, eventually only those who can walk or cycle into the city, or a relative few who live outside the city and are willing to pay to park here will be able to use our high street shops, businesses, city facilities, attractions and services. That may imperil each of them and the popularity and stability of Wells.

“I’m glad that my colleague Councillor Mike Rigby, who oversees decisions about parking, has called for a pause and re-think on any new residents’ parking schemes.

“There will be a survey sent to every home in Wells and the surrounding villages asking for locals’ opinions on parking, amongst other highways matters.

“I hope Wells’ citizens will let us know what they think by returning that survey complete with information about what they care about most.”

A Somerset Council spokesperson said: “Following receipt of a petition from residents of Tor Street and further consultation, a proposal to introduce resident parking is being prepared.

“We have also undertaken consultation with residents of St Thomas Street. An update is being prepared for residents to advise them of the outcome.”

Images supplied by residents of traffic difficulties in St Thomas Street

Literary quiz night will be a festival first

A FUN literary quiz night is a first in its 31 years for Wells Festival of Literature which takes place from October 27 to November 4.

Bookworms might like to test what they know – or don’t know – about the books they read at the Wells Literary Quiz specially created by Gary Wrigglesworth, author of the Book Lover’s Quiz Book.

While the festival takes place in Cedars Hall in Wells, the seasoned literary quizmaster is bringing this light-hearted and humorous event to a more traditional pub quiz venue – that of the White Hart Inn at 7.30pm on Sunday, October 29. Teams of up to six can be booked in advance from the festival box office for what is certain to be a page-turningly competitive night’s entertainment.

Tickets are now flying out for festival events, with a diverse line-up of visiting authors

offering topics ranging from politics to poetry and health to humour.

The opening weekend features such sell-out speakers as Wes Streeting, Polly Toynbee and Chris Patten, along with others including Emily Kenway on the crisis in caregiving, and Jim Down with a doctor’s stories of intensive care.

The former BBC arts editor Will Gompertz investigates the world through the eyes of various artists from Hockney to Rembrandt, while novelist Donal Ryan will host the Book Group event with his Booker-longlisted The Queen of Dirt Island, the story of four generations of Irish women.

While all these offer plenty of food for thought, later in the week there is also food for the soul at each of three literary lunches. This year’s lunchtime speakers are Gail Simmons who takes a journey on foot into the past, rediscovering a long-forgotten road between Southampton and Canterbury; Sander van Linden, who will talk about fake news and how we can fight it; while Stephen Moss – local resident and president of the Somerset Wildlife Trust – will share his expertise on how ten birds have changed the world.

Guests will have the chance to meet the authors in advance of the talk while they enjoy a meal together in the dining hall of Cedars House.

For details of all these and a full programme of events pick up a brochure from Waterstones in Wells or at numerous venues in the area. To book tickets visit www.wellsfestivalofliterature. org.uk or call 01749 834483.

September activities at library

TAKING place at Wells Library in September will be: Nintendo Switch Club

Saturday, September 2, and Saturday, September 16, at 10.30am. For children aged seven years and up. Free of charge – book a place in the library or email wlslib@ somerset.gov.uk

Wells Neighbourhood Policing Team

Drop in and speak to a member of Wells Neighbourhood Policing Team on Wednesday, September 6, from 11am-12pm, when somebody from the policing team will be on-hand to help if people want to raise a concern about an issue in the community. Children’s Summer Reading Challenge

Have you read all six books?

Have you collected your certificate and medal? The Summer Reading Challenge finishes on Saturday, September 9.

Meet the author – Sally Mills

An opportunity for Wells folk to meet the author of Island to Island on Wednesday, September 20, from 3pm-4pm. A chance to see some inspiring images and hear all about the trials and tribulations of living and working in a tropical paradise. This is free of charge, but booking is recommended – email wlslib@ somerset.gov.uk

HSBC Community Pop-Up HSBC will be in the library from 9.30am-12pm on Friday, September 8, and Thursday, September 21. No need to book, just drop in.

Clockwise from left, Will Gompertz, Gail Simmons and Stephen Moss, who will all feature at this year’s Wells Festival of Literature

Grant a major boost for chapel project

A GRANT of £158,490 from The National Lottery Heritage Fund has given the City of Wells Almshouses a major boost for their project to restore the Bubwith Chapel.

The project will develop and transform the chapel making it both a visitor destination in Wells and an important community space in the city. The restored chapel will provide a continuing place of worship, mindfulness and contemplation, and a warm space for activities to reconnect older residents and local community groups as well as hosting concerts, recitals, lectures, workshops, seminars and rehearsals.

The project has already received support from Mendip Communities Fund, The Blair Foundation, Wessex Water and community backing through a sponsored walk by Trustee Chris Vigar, as well as investment from the City of Wells Almshouses themselves.

Lottery Heritage Funding means that work on restoring the medieval chapel to full use can now begin.

Thanks for support in difficult few days

MAY I through your columns thank all our customers for their understanding during our recent problems at Wells Film Centre Cinema in what was the busiest time we have had since 2019.

Stewart Cursley, Chairman of the board of trustees, said: “We are thrilled to have received this support thanks to National Lottery players – we have been developing plans for some time and are delighted to have the opportunity to restore the Bubwith Chapel and to ensure this building retains its original

purpose as well as becoming a vital part of Wells’ community landscape and an important place for people to connect.”

Since the 1400s the City of Wells Almshouses have been supporting those with housing needs in Wells.

With five almshouse buildings on either side of Priest Row, the

Trust provides housing for older people with a housing need in the very centre of the city.

The Bubwith Chapel was built in the early 15th century. Originally called St Saviour’s Hospital, it was established to support some of Wells’ poorest and most vulnerable citizens.

The Chapel has not been greatly altered since its inception. It is a Grade II* listed building of national importance. However, aside from a weekly service, this historic gem has been largely hidden from public view.

Stuart McLeod, Director of England – London & South at The National Lottery Heritage Fund, said: “We are delighted to support this project, which thanks to money raised by National Lottery players, will restore this Grade II* listed building.

“When it was built in the 15th century, Bubwith Chapel was an integral part of its community and it’s fantastic that its restoration will once again create space and opportunities to bring the people of Wells together.”

The storm damage caused us to lose all our power supply and it required four days’ work to have all our electrics renewed.

I want to thank all those who have sent such wonderful comments, emails and messages offering their support during what was a very difficult nine days.

We are delighted to say we are back open every day with a great line-up of films for the summer holidays and yes, our summer special is still on with all seats, all shows, all films, all ages only £5 each, excluding Andre Rieu’s 2023 Maastricht Concert Live on August 26 and 27.

For full details of films and to

• Supply and Installation of Fireplaces and Stoves.

• Authorised AGA cooker showroom with live electric ER3 model. (This offers the most innovative AGA cooking yet)

• Solid fuel, wood burning, electric and gas specialists.

• Custom made flue systems and chimney lining.

• ECCO STOVE masonry heater on display.

• We have a selection of our Oak beams and shelves on display.

• Stockists for Chilli Penguin, Jotul, Stovax, Gazco, Nordpeis, H unter, Capital Fireplaces, Mendip Stoves, Westfire and more.

• Hetas & Gas Safe Engineers. • Insurance work undertaken.

www.southwestfireplaces.co.uk

01749 937370 • 07365 863509

South West Fireplaces. 22a Priory Road, Wells, BA5 1SR Our showroom is open Monday-Friday 9am to 5pm. Closed on Bank Holidays

book, see www.wellsfilmcentre. co.uk or telephone 01749 673195 or in person daily 1pm to 9pm. Please note during busy times you may get our 24-hour answerphone.

On behalf of the whole team, our grateful thanks.

Sally Cooper, Proprietor, Wells Film Centre Cinema

FREE site surveys can be arranged after an initial consultation

City of Wells Almshouses Trustees Chris Vigar, Sarah Powell, Stella Ainsworth, James Fane-Gladwin and Philip Welch; residents Maureen, Reg and Mo; Louise Lappin-Cook, and Caroline Tollworthy

Top marks for practice’s reception team

THE team at Wells Health Centre is delighted at the results of this year’s annual GP Patient Survey.

Not only has the practice achieved higher results than the national averages, but its reception team achieved a score of 100 per cent for “helpfulness of receptionists at a GP practice”.

At a time when the whole of the NHS is under great pressure, and with patients sometimes expressing concerns over their experiences when dealing with GP receptionists, health centre staff are proud of their achievement.

Karen Polly, Managing Partner at Wells Health Centre, said: “Our whole practice works as one team, to make it as easy as possible for patients to access services and our receptionist’s focus is to be as honest, transparent, compassionate, knowledgeable and friendly as we can with our patients.

“To make it as easy as possible for patients to access care, our receptionists can book routine appointments in with clinical staff at the Practice, throughout the week. And we have on-call GP and paramedics at the practice that our receptionists can access on a

daily basis to be able to quickly and easily help patients access clinical advice.

“We understand that

the survey results are only a snapshot of the views and opinions of our patients and won’t be everyone’s experience. In order for us to continually review our Practice, we encourage patients to provide feedback via our Friends and Family survey which can be found either on our website or cards in practice.”

Dr Bernie Marden, Chief Medical Officer, NHS Somerset, said: “It is great to see the good results that patients at Wells Health Centre reported in this year’s national patient survey. In particular, it is outstanding that 100 per cent of patients surveyed reported that they found the

reception team helpful.

“The national average result for this question was 82 per cent and our Somerset average was 84 per cent, so this is a great achievement by the team at Wells Health Centre.

“Reception teams play an incredibly important role in the delivery of GP services. They are skilled, compassionate and knowledgeable. They work quickly to understand patient needs, signpost them to the best service to help them, and listen to people who are often distressed or anxious, helping to resolve complex problems.

“We are hugely grateful to the reception team at Wells Health Centre for their service to patients and the community, and we will be visiting the Health Centre to see what we can learn that may help other practices.”

Each year NHSE randomly selects a group of patients who are currently registered at a GP surgery in England, inviting them to take part in a survey answering questions about their GP practice.

The survey is conducted independently and only patients who receive an invitation to participate can give their feedback.

Patients being contacted about flu vaccine appointments

THE first flu vaccination clinic at Wells City Practice will be held on Sunday, September 24, from 9am-5pm. Patients who are eligible for the flu vaccine will receive a letter in the post or a self-book text message on their mobile phone containing the information required to book an appointment.

A further date will be offered in October for patients who cannot make this date.

This year the practice will be inviting eligible patients with an up-to-date mobile

number to book a flu vaccination appointment using the online booking system. Booking an appointment this way means they will not need to call the practice. Once an appointment is booked, the practice will send a flu invitation letter to take in on the day.

Concert gives air ambulance boost

DORSET and Somerset Air Ambulance has been given a boost by Cheddar Male Choir, which raised £910 for the charity at a recent concert. The choir sings most Tuesdays at Draycott

Memorial Hall from 7.30pm9.30pm and is inviting interested men to go along or contact John Morgan on 07888 717536 or contactcheddarmalechoir@ gmail.com

The practice will also be opening its flu booking telephone line for those whose preference is to call, and will be sending out letters to patients who do not have a mobile number on their record. Once they have a letter, they will be able to call the phone line to book an appointment.

The practice will be inviting in eligible pre-school children via text and letters to clinics it will be running within practice hours.

Those who are eligible for a flu vaccination, and are attending the practice for a

routine nurse or GP appointment after September 24, may be able to have their flu vaccine at the same time and should ask at their appointment. It will not be possible to book a routine appointment for a vaccination on non-flu clinic days until after the practice’s main flu clinics have run.

If the practice does not have a patient’s up-to-date mobile number or address, the new details should be given to the Care Navigation team who can update this.

Recognition for apprenticeship work

SOUTH West financial firm Old Mill has been named as one of England’s leading apprenticeship employers by the Department of Education.

Old Mill, which has an office

in Wells, was ranked number 47 in the Top 100 Apprenticeship Employer Rankings. The company has been running an apprenticeship scheme for six years.

Karen Polly, Managing Partner at Wells Health Centre, left, with receptionists at the Health Centre, and seen again with two of them below

Crime and pavements discussed at length

CRIME and the state of the pavements in Wells were the two main topics discussed at the meeting of Wells City Council on July 27.

Both issues were raised by Rob Bevan of Protec when he addressed the meeting. He said that he was representing more than 90 retailers and 60 market traders, and that everyone had the same issues, with crime and the state of the pavements being the main ones.

He said that he has been retailing for 40 years and that crime in the last two months was probably the worst he has known. Shoplifters were acting with impunity, there have been assaults on shop staff, and he said: “We’ve had enough. Please, we need help. Wells needs help. We need measures to re-establish security and a safe environment, and that goes for the pavements too.”

He said that police tell retailers to log incidents with them but that is time-consuming, and does not result in any action anyway. The WhatsApp group that retailers use is much more

effective for sharing information instantly, he said. It could provide a quick link to the police if they joined the group, and most shoplifters could be caught. He said that the retailers would be happy to pay the contract to provide a phone for that purpose to the police.

“Why not change the by-laws so we can detain people until the police arrive?” he asked. “Give us money for our own copper.”

He said that the roads and kerbs are not fit for purpose, they are not being maintained, and they and the pavements, which some vehicles drive on, are a tripping hazard. “I feel we deserve better, Wells deserves better.”

Councillor Georgie Robbins backed up Mr Bevan’s comments on crime, and suggested that the police should be more proactive: “We don’t see the police during the day. We need to see more of them engaging with shops. We’ve already lost shops and we don’t want to lose more shops.”

Councillor Louis Agabani said that when the city council works on its next budget, he is planning

to suggest that it considers paying for a PCSO. He also said that the city council could look after its own pavements if Somerset Council delegated responsibility for doing so, and that Somerset Council gets away with not maintaining the pavements because nobody sues them when they have an accident.

Somerset Council councillor Tessa Munt told the meeting that it might be appropriate for the city council to write to the Chief Constable about the local response teams to see whether they are getting pulled to work on operations elsewhere, and for how long this might continue.

She also suggested getting the PACT meetings going again, which the police have to attend, and said it would be helpful if people report falls, and take photos of vehicles on pavements, as heavy vehicles can break the slabs, that then rock underfoot.

Councillor Harvey Siggs said that the paving stones and setts will always break, and wondered whether it might be better to return surfaces to tarmac, which

does not look as pretty but is safer and easier to maintain.

Councillor Sarah Powell said that would be expensive, based on her knowledge of tarmacking work at City of Wells Almshouses, where she is a Trustee.

Among other items discussed were plans to expand the 20mph speed zone in Wells. Councillors held a vote, and agreed to pay the £500 cost of initial assessments.

Councillor Georgie Robbins said that she would like Wells to have a first Pride event during Pride month next June, and had been involved in discussions about an event at the Bishop’s Barn. She said that she had been to a Pride event at Glastonbury and it was really successful.

Councillor Jasmine Browne reminded fellow councillors that Wells City Council is not responsible for the “traffic chaos” at the moment,

that people who contact them about it should be directed to the city council’s website which makes clear that the roadworks are the responsibility of Somerset Highways, and gives a link for reporting problems.

and

deadline for contributions to the October edition of Wells Voice is Wednesday, September 13

Main picture, Mayor of Wells Tanys Pullin hands a cheque for £4,754.01 to David Maidment, founder of the Railway Children charity that helps children who end up on the streets in the UK, India and Tanzania, watched by Chris Challis (left) and Colin Price of Wells Railway Fraternity. The money was raised through Fraternity activities and the Railwells exhibition it organises in Wells Town Hall. Also pictured at this year’s Railwells, that took place on August 12 and 13, is a section of the North 9th Street Terminal, Brooklyn, by Neil Kinison; Jas Millham, a leading member of the S Scale Society, with his Abbey Street layout; and Roger Sawyer, who was explaining soldering for beginners. Wells Railway Fraternity’s next meeting is in the Town Hall on September 12 at 7.30pm, when there will be two talks by Richard Harman. New members and guests are always welcome. For more details, see the website Railwells.com

Still chance to vote for favourite artwork

THERE is still time for people to vote for their favourite piece of artwork in this year’s exhibition organised by Wells Art Contemporary (WAC), which remains in Wells Cathedral until September 2.

The People’s Choice Prize will be announced at the end of the exhibition, awarding £500 to the artist who receives the most public votes. In 2022, 5,000 visitors voted for their favourite work.

When the WAC 2023 exhibition opened its doors on Friday, August 4, for a special presentation evening, seven outstanding artists received awards ranging from £2,000 in cash to a residency in France.

Two of these successful artists are from Somerset: Rob Irving from Frome won the JGM Gallery Prize for his atmospheric video artwork, Breathe. It which will now be included in an online showcase from the West

End-based gallery. Rob works primarily with photography, experimental moving images, sound, and text. This compelling video installation that caught the judges attention is described by Rob as capturing “natural sounds of wind, rustling barley, birdsong, insects, and hints of

grasshopper overlaid with quiet yogic breathing”.

It is Rob’s second win. “I have special memories of Wells Cathedral and love visiting, so to see my films there with so many other fine artworks is thrilling. I’m delighted to have won top awards two years running. This

both encourages me and presents a challenge for next time,” he said.

Meanwhile, Leah Hislop, a site specific installation and sculpture artist from Taunton, won the Somerset Art Works (SAW) Prize for her installation, A Safe Space. Like Rob, this is Leah’s second award, following her SAW prize in 2021.

“Winning the award the first time gave me the confidence and support to push my practice forward,” Leah said, and led to her exploring a different medium. A Safe Space is constructed entirely from paper from donated and unwanted books. It is made of triangles that have been individually hand folded, with the three points reflecting the themes of the Holy Trinity.

For anyone unable to attend the exhibition in person, the works can be viewed at www. wellsartcontemporary.co.uk

Left, Leah Hislop of Taunton with her winning artwork A Safe Space; right, Rob Irving from Frome (centre) with Lucy Peel and fellow artist James Lake

Keenness to make most of pub’s potential

THE new landlady at the King’s Head in Wells says that running her own pub is a dream come true.

Krystal Axe took over at the end of June from Barbara Tlustochwicz, who had been the licensee since the King’s Head reopened in November 2021 after a £560,000 makeover, having been closed for more than five years. Now Krystal is determined to put her own stamp on the High Street pub, and has already begun making changes to add to its appeal.

She has 20 years of experience in the hospitality industry, and moved to the King’s Head from the John Gregory in Weymouth with her partner Dan Atkins, who has a key role as one of the Wells pub’s chefs.

“When I first came up I thought it’s got so much potential, and now I’m trying to utilise that,” said Krystal.

A breakfast menu has been launched, available from 9am each day, and a Mums’ Meet group has been started in the function room on Thursdays from 3.30pm-6pm. This might be extended to morning weekday sessions once the school summer

BERTIE

Sweet cat who wants to be loved

This very handsome boy is BERTIE, a five-year-old black and white male who is looking for his new forever home. Bertie has a very sweet, affectionate personality, loves people and is very vocal when he wants attention. He wants nothing more than to be the centre of your attention so he can get all the love he craves.

He is looking for a home where he can be an only pet with no children, somewhere away from any busy, main or fast roads, with someone able to spend lots of time with him.

If you think you can offer this lovely cat the forever home that he deserves, please visit our website https://cats.org.uk/glastonbury and fill out an online application for him.

Glastonbury & Wells Cats Protection

Reg Charity No: 203644 (England & Wales) and SCO37711 (Scotland)

www.cats.org.uk/glastonbury

holidays are over. “We want to make it as family-friendly as we can – we are a family-friendly pub, and a dog-friendly pub,” said Krystal.

As well as live sport on the TV screens, there are weekly live music nights, which will soon be switched from Friday to Saturday, and an open mic night on the first and third Wednesday of the month (“which could be comedians, drummers, all different varieties of acts,” says Krystal).

Having found a quizmaster, there will also soon be Thursday quiz nights, and possibly a theme night, and karaoke.

“Everything is baby steps, but the baby steps are working,” said Krystal. “The team here have been absolutely fabulous and a great support. If it wasn’t for the team we wouldn’t have been able to make it a success.”

Krystal was originally appointed to the role on a trial basis, but this has now been made permanent.

“This has been my dream for a long time, and this is a dream come true. I’m very passionate about it and determined to make it work,” she said.

“I’m a grafter. My other half calls me Wonder Woman because I just don’t stop.”

She is still getting to know Wells, and said: “From what I’ve seen of Wells it is very quaint and very quirky. It’s a breath of fresh air. I love the architecture and the old buildings, and the people I’ve met have been very welcoming and very friendly.

“The pub itself has got so much character to it. I’d love to find out more about the history of the pub.”

Starting point for conversations

LIFE is becoming less personal every year. Bank branches close, people shop online more, communicate by text rather than speaking, and walk the street wearing headphones.

To counter this trend special benches have been set around the world that carry the same sign: “Happy to Chat bench. Sit here if you don’t mind someone stopping to say hello.”

The benches encourage people to start conversations and talk to each other, rather than being isolated and sometimes lonely. Now one has been installed on Wells Recreation Ground by Heads Up which was made at the mental health charity’s woodwork workshop in South Horrington with money from a Somerset County Council grant.

“Thank you county councillor Tessa Munt for securing this grant and for your support of our charity,” said the charity’s service director Bridget Harvey,

Nathan Bell and Dominic Butler, who helped install it, and

“and we are very pleased to work alongside Somerset Council with contracts to support vulnerable people in our society.”

Cllr Munt said: “I think this bench is brilliant. An absolutely fantastic way of getting to know people.”

Krystal Axe behind the bat ar the King’s Head

Bridget Harvey and Tessa Munt on the bench, with Wells City Council staff

Heads Up trustee Philip Welch

Races that go with the flow of history

RACING boats on the moat at The Bishop’s Palace started in 1963. This is the 60th year since the races first took place.

A report on the history of the event appeared in the Wells Journal in 2012, written by Phil Payne of the City of Wells Lions.

He said that the original idea of racing on the moat stemmed from a discussion between the sons of John Wright, vicar of St Thomas’ Church in Wells, and Bishop ‘Jock’ Henderson. Simon and Peter Wright were members of the St Thomas Youth Fellowship, an active youth fellowship which the late Arthur Rice had formed a few years earlier.

The fellowship had been formed to enable young people to get together in a friendly environment and to serve the local community. The boat race idea was immediately welcomed by the fellowship committee and plans prepared to stage the

first event on the Spring Bank Holiday of 1963.

According to Phil Payne’s report: “When the day came, the admission charge had been set at one shilling and six pence.

“A volunteer called Bert Collins acted as solitary gateman on the Bishop’s Palace drawbridge. It was not long before there was a cry for help, a crowd had gathered round thrusting their admission

charges, many awaiting change. How badly had we misjudged the interest there would be.

“As the time of the first race approached, all pubs in the town emptied and a sea of locals and visitors converged on the Palace moat. The potential of the event was obvious to everyone and detailed and long-term planning became a youth club priority.”

After 1974 the Moat Race was abandoned until the City

of Wells Lions Club and 1955 (City of Wells) Air Cadets became involved. The resulting partnership between these two voluntary organisations, reinstated the Wells Moat Boat Race as an annual event in Wells in August 2001.

This year’s races, free and for the local community, at noon on Bank Holiday Monday, August 28, are being organised by the City of Wells Lions Club supported by the 1955 (City of Wells) Air Cadets, the St John Ambulance Brigade, the Corinthian Yacht Club and other local volunteers.

The event is being sponsored by many local businesses to provide the local community with a day out to enjoy the fun of the raft races.

Anyone who would like to volunteer to help with running the races can contact the Lions: cityofwellslions@gmail.com or 0345 833 6736.

Moat Boat Race action during last year’s event

Special event to thank Ambassadors for their work

MORE Wells Ambassadors than ever are out and about meeting and greeting visitors to the city. There are now 27 in this team of volunteers who welcome visitors, handing out maps and pointing out what there is to see in Wells.

To thank the Ambassadors for boosting the city’s visitor

economy a drinks reception was laid on for them in Wells Museum, where they were praised by Ross Young who started this initiative in 2021.

“Many, many locals come up to me and thank the Ambassadors for all we do,” said Ross.

“Visitors are particularly

pleased when we point out Vicars’ Close which a surprising number of locals don’t know about.”

Ross had special praise for Mel Townsend who was on Ambassador duty outside the Cathedral when a lady fell over.

“There was blood everywhere,” said Ross, “but Mel

was able to find a first aider in the Cathedral and stayed with the lady till she felt better.

“Then Mel ordered a taxi on her mobile to take the injured lady home.”

Wells City Council paid for the drinks and room hire to show appreciation for the Ambassadors’ efforts.

‘Busting myths’ about domestic abuse

Somerset Council says its domestic abuse campaign, #YouWillBeBelieved, is ‘busting the myths’ around domestic abuse and what causes it

THERE are many dangerous myths surrounding domestic abuse. The #YouWillBeBelieved campaign is challenging some of those most extensively believed and deep-seated misconceptions. Below are some of the most common misunderstandings about domestic abuse:

Myth: Domestic abuse only occurs in impoverished, innercity areas.

Fact: From an urban or rural area, rich or poor, anyone can experience domestic abuse, it doesn’t matter where you live or how much income you have. It happens in all types of relationships, regardless of employment status and what type of house you live in.

Myth: Domestic abuse always involves physical or sexual violence.

Fact: Domestic abuse is often

thought of as the beating up of a partner or sexual assault but sometimes there is no physical assault. Other abusive behaviours include:

l Coercive control

l Psychological abuse

l Financial/economic control

l Emotional abuse

l Harassment

l Stalking

l Online or digital abuse

Myth: Only women experience domestic abuse.

Fact: Men can also experience domestic abuse from their female partners. People can be subjected to abuse regardless of how they identify their sexuality. Abuse can happen in same sex relationships. However, it is not just between partners, it can be between other types of family relationships.

Myth: Domestic abuse is a rare occurrence.

Fact: Often domestic abuse goes on behind closed doors and is underreported, however it’s not an uncommon occurrence. One in four women and one in

six men will experience domestic abuse in their lifetime.

Myth: Domestic abuse is often a one-off incident.

Fact: An abusive relationship has an ongoing cycle of incidents of controlling, coercive or threatening behaviour, violence or abuse. It will often get worse over time.

Myth: Survivors often provoke assaults and therefore ‘ask for it’.

Fact: Domestic abuse cannot be justified in any way. Nobody is responsible for making someone abusive towards them. Abuse that has been going on in a relationship for a long time, sometimes decades, often becomes normalised by a survivor, even to the point of believing they deserve to be hurt. This can lead to someone rationalising and defending their abuser’s behaviour.

Myth: An abusive relationship doesn’t always affect the children.

Fact: An estimated 90 per cent of children whose parents are in an abusive relationship witness the abuse. When a child

witnesses domestic abuse it is child abuse. The trauma can have a long-lasting emotional and psychological effect on them.

Myth: Domestic abuse is a private matter that others should not get involved in.

Fact: Domestic abuse is a crime and should not be ignored. Ignoring the signs of domestic abuse in a friend or family member may lead to them not getting the help they need to regain control of their lives.

Trying to tackle the situation on your own may be dangerous for you or the person experiencing abuse, but advice on how to help someone that is in an abusive relationship is available.

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic abuse, you can go to www. somersetdomesticabuse.org.uk or telephone 0800 69 49 999 for confidential advice and support.

In an emergency dial 999; if you are unable to speak for fear of being overheard, you can press 55 and the operator will know that you need assistance.

Wells Ambassadors gather at the reception in Wells Museum

Golf competition helps raise more funds for charity

WELLS Golf Club held its Charity Day Golf Competition and Social Evening on behalf of Orchard Vale Trust on Saturday, July 29.

The Trust is a local charity based near Wookey that supports adults with learning difficulties across Somerset either within residential settings or by additional daily support at their day service or in the community.

The golf club received excellent support for this charity from local traders and businesses as well as through its own membership to provide sponsorship and donations. This helped raise funds on the day through a raffle, auction, mulligans, challenging the pro shop on the 17th tee and via the

cake and drinks supplied by Orchard Vale Trust service users and staff. In total this year the golf club has now raised £8,500 towards providing specialist equipment for the Trust.

The Town Crier, Len Sweales, got the proceedings under way, with the best two scores from teams of four players counting in the battle for top prizes. The winners on the day were Steve Jones, Martyn Pugh, Mark Edgell and Trevor Jones.

The best mixed team were Jackie Cohen, Mark Lewer, Paul Lewer and Buster Lewer, with Sienna Elliott dominating both of the Ladies ‘Nearest the Pin’ competitions, whilst Liam O’Gorman and Andy Williams triumphed in the Men’s section.

Top, a team from Boots Opticians – perhaps not showcasing their usual glasses – with Club Professional Terry Williams at Wells Golf Club Captains’ Charity Day; and Orchard Vale Trust service users and staff who handed out cakes and cold drinks

WELLS VALUATION DAY

THE SWAN HOTEL, SADLER STREET, WELLS, BA5 2RX

JEWELLERY, WATCHES & COINS

WEDNESDAY 20 SEPTEMBER AT 10 AM–2 PM

OUR EXPERIENCED SPECIALISTS WILL BE AVAILABLE TO OFFER FREE AUCTION VALUATIONS WITH THE OPPORTUNITY TO CONSIGN TO OUR MAYFAIR AUCTIONS FOR AN APPOINTMENT PLEASE CALL 020 7016 1700 OR EMAIL JEWELLERY@NOONANS.CO.UK

HERENNIUS ETRUSCUS (AS CÆSAR), AUREUS

SOLD ON 18 JULY 2023

HAMMER PRICE: £7,000

A LADY’S ART DECO WRISTWATCH BY CARTIER, C.1925

SOLD ON 13 JUNE 2023

HAMMER PRICE: £4,000

RUBY AND DIAMOND

CLUSTER EAR PENDANTS

SOLD ON 14 JUNE 2022

HAMMER PRICE: £6,000

Event returning to provide foodie treats

WELLS Food Festival is back in October with another day of foodie adventures for the whole family.

The free-to-enter festival takes place on Sunday, October 8, from 10.30am to 4.30pm, and provides the chance to taste and buy some of the region’s finest food and drink from dedicated independent businesses and artisan traders.

“This will be the festival’s 11th year,” says Jon Abbott, festival director. “And I’m delighted that out of the 150 plus traders we are expecting to join us, there are plenty who have been with us since the very beginning. That has to be a sign of a successful day – for both the producer and the visitor.”

Charlie Bigham’s is once again the headline sponsor, and with its support the festival has plenty of mouthwatering events on the menu in addition to the Artisan Market.

There is a new feature area, Food for Thought, which will be providing lots of ideas and helpful advice on a range of

current food-related social issues. Visitors will have an opportunity to find out about Food Banks, Food Waste Facts,

Money Savers, Meals for the Elderly and Nutrition.

A marquee celebrating the quality wine produced in England will be on the Palace Green, including several from Somerset. People can chat to the individual vineyards about their wines whilst tasting a glass or two with cheese and charcuterie nibbles.

Meanwhile, there is plenty planned for the younger visitors. The Children’s Zone is located next to the Bishop’s Barn and supported by PTAs from primary schools across Wells. Fun Kitchen returns providing free cookery sessions for children throughout the day. The popular, interactive Children’s Trail will once again provide a fun way to see the festival, with a small prize for all correctly completed trail sheets.

For further information and to keep up to date with news visit www.wellsfoodfestival.co.uk

House | Wells BA5 1TN

Festival-goers can expect the return of popular attractions such as the Artisan Market, local company The Crumpeteers with their crumpets and coffee, and an opportunity for children to get cooking

Picture: John Law

Generous response to musical appeal

By Philip Welch

SINGING brought the cash flowing and left the charity smiling.

The song is called Give Us The Money and the cast sang it during Wells Little Theatre’s production of Avenue Q, a musical comedy featuring puppets and human actors.

During this appropriate song members of the theatre company went and collected cash from the audience for the Wells Foodbank.

“We were blown away by the generosity of the audience who raised £870.60 for the city’s Foodbank,” said Glynn Webster, who played the internet entrepreneur Trekkie Monster in the show and whose daughter Elisha was the choreographer.

“It was the most fun and challenging show we have done,” said Glynn. “Like The Muppets on steroids. We had to learn

how to work a puppet on stage and get the audience to look at it rather than you.”

Avenue Q won Best Musical, Book, and Score at the 2004 Tony Awards. The show’s format is a parody of the American educational TV series Sesame

Street but its content involves adult-oriented themes.

“There’s a scene in the show with a homeless man and we wanted to do what we could to help deal with this very serious issue,” said Glynn.

“We are immensely grateful

to the theatre for this wonderful support,” said Sue Marland, “and that they see the Foodbank as such a significant part of our community.”

The money will be used to buy stock for Wells Foodbank which is facing increasing demand.

Electrification plan approved

FIRST Bus has been given permission to carry out electrification works at Wells Bus Depot on Priory Road. Approval of the planning application by Somerset Council means that First Bus can install the required electric infrastructure to be able to charge a full fleet of electric buses on the site. The proposal includes the construction of three new GRP substation

housings and a number of vehicle chargers of various sizes.

When Wells Voice first reported on the plans in May, a First Bus spokesperson told us: “At this time there are no immediate plans to roll out electric buses in Wells, but by installing the necessary infrastructure it means it will be a seamless transition when we reach that point.”

Counting the cash: Elisha and Glynn Webster with the Foodbank’s Sue Hubbard and Sue Marland Picture: Philip Welch

The cast and crew of Avenue Q at Wells Little Theatre

More than £2,000 raised for good causes

WELLS resident Laura Gould has raised more than £2,000 for good causes by giving up sweet treats for a month, and then holding a cake sale.

Laura set up her first fundraiser in June when she was sponsored not to eat sweet treats like chocolate and cakes for 30 days in aid of Cancer Research, after two people close to her were diagnosed with cancer in May.

“It was hard to avoid temptation at times but it was so worth it, and I raised £610,” she said.

In July she held a cake sale at her house for the Motor Neurone Disease Association, because her daughter Talia’s grandfather has MND. Grandad London was diagnosed with the disease 18 months ago.

Laura said that the cake sale was a really busy event with all her family and friends coming

despite the bad weather that day.

“We had so many different flavours of cake and it was a sellout,” she said.

“A lot of local small businesses donated prizes for the raffle. The final total raised was £1,485, an absolutely amazing

Creative writing sessions resume

THE new term for Wells Wednesday Writers begins on Wednesday, September 6, from 3.30pm-5.30pm.

The free creative writing course takes place at the Lawrence Centre, Wells, with individual written activities, pair-work and group feedback. No experience is necessary, and all are welcome. Refreshments are provided. For more information and to book, see www. somersetrecoverycollege. co.uk or email enquiries@ somersetrecoverycollege.co.uk

amount. The raffle donations and the people who turned up for the sale meant so much to me. I could not have done it without them. It’s a lot of money in these hard times. Talia’s grandad is very grateful for the work we have done.”

Somerset Recovery College provides a safe, inclusive space for people to explore their creativity.

View every edition online at issuu.com/wellsvoice

Laura Gould at the cake sale with her daughter Talia

Drumming up support for good causes

People have been busy planning community activities at the Wells Contemporary Music Centre in the Portway Annexe, report the Wells Rocks team

Wells Djembe Circle

The Wells Djembe Circle are happy to announce their first fundraising workshop for two local charities – the Foodbank and Heads Up. This will be a free event and a fun way to bring people together through music. Donations will be very welcome on the day where raffle tickets can also be purchased if you have not already done so at the open-air pop-up events beforehand. These will happen around Wells where you can ‘have-a-go’ on a djembe.

There are some superb raffle prizes that have kindly been donated by local businesses and Wells Rocks supporters. Chrissie would like to express her thanks to them for their generosity. “Thank you” also Djembe Crew for giving up your time to help make this happen. Come join

them and get involved. To reserve a drum please phone Chrissie: 07948 726754. The event takes place on Saturday, September 23, in Chamberlain Hall at the Portway Annexe from 11am to 2pm.

Regular drumming sessions are run on Tuesday mornings (10am-11.30am) and Thursday evenings (6pm-7.30pm).

Another new initiative for the Portway Annexe What will you be doing on September 2? Why not check out the launch of Portway Performing Arts? Taster workshops will be run that Saturday. Production set, props and costume design will be covered. Come and see what you can design and create in an hour.

Portway Music School developments

This continues to expand, with more staff offering tuition in a wider range of instruments and concerts. A new booking system is also being introduced so that people on waiting lists can be

Choir presenting charity concert

THE popular Wells

Good Afternoon

Choir will present a charity concert at St Cuthbert’s Church in Wells on Saturday, October 7, at 7.30pm (doors open 7pm).

The choir is led by Good Afternoon

Choir founder Grenville Jones, pictured right, with more than 60 enthusiastic members who are busy preparing their programme for the concert which will support Papyrus, a charity chosen by the members of the choir.

Special guests for the concert are Glastonbury Male Voice Choir who sing an eclectic mix of material both sacred and secular. This year they celebrate their centenary year.

The Good Afternoon Choirs were started by Bath-based Grenville 13 years ago and there

are now 23 across the South West with more than 1,000 members ‘Singing in the Afternoon’.

There are no auditions to join and members of the Wells Good Afternoon Choir come from in and around the area.

They meet every Tuesday afternoon from 2pm4pm at St Thomas’ Church. There are no auditions and everyone is welcome to go along and meet Grenville and the members of the choir.

Tickets for the concert priced £10 are available from gac.ticketlight.co.uk or by calling 0844 888 9991.

Grenville said: “It is going to be a great night of music and we are absolutely delighted to be sharing the evening with the Glastonbury Male Voice Choir.”

notified of opportunities to take up cancellations.

Wells’ new Synth Club August saw the second meeting of Wells’ Synth Club. This session created an opportunity to study a range of synths including a Korg MS-20 mini, a modal Argon 8 (made just down the road in Bristol), a micro Korg, a laptop with a collection of virtual instruments, and a noisy, drone synth that is impossible to describe in words. So, a real mix. People are very welcome to bring something or just come along. The next Synth Club gathering will be on August 24, then September 21, from 7pm-9pm.

The group is still working out how it wants to run. For

now, it will try a combination of bringing some things along and talking about and exploring them before descending into a jam –which might sound fantastic or terrible but as long as it’s fun, that’s all that matters. Other suggestions are welcome.

Do you like 70s rock music and fancy having a jam? The sessions happening on alternate Wednesday afternoons (from 2.30pm-4.30pm) continue to provide an outlet for Wells’ rockers. Again, these are open sessions so anyone can bring an instrument or their voice and join in. Don’t be shy, have a go. It’s fun.

With band rehearsals happening most evenings, the Wells Contemporary Music Centre is becoming a great new hub for having fun through music, which is continuing to stimulate ideas and activities in our community.

Tabby looking for nice quiet home

This gorgeous girl is Rudy, a nine-yearold tabby female who is looking for her forever home. Rudy came into care after life in her old home got too stressful for her so she’s looking for a nice quiet home with no other pets so she can be the centre of attention. She will need an adult-only home, away from any busy, main or fast roads.

After coming into care she was diagnosed with Hyperthyroidism which is currently under control thanks to medication. She will need to take this medicine for the rest of her life but can be bribed with treats to take it! Cats Protection will support the cost of her medication if necessary.

Rudy is full of personality and knows what she likes. We swear she must have been a tortie in her last life! She can be very sweet and affectionate but likes things on her own terms.

If you think you can offer this lovely cat the forever home that she deserves, please visit our website https://cats.org.uk/glastonbury and fill out an online application for her.

Gate makes Palace more accessible

STAFF, volunteers and guests of The Bishop’s Palace have celebrated the opening of a new accessible entry for groups at the heritage site and tourist attraction in Wells.

The Rt Rev Ruth Worsley, Bishop of Taunton, led the celebrations by cutting the ribbon, and members of local charity Heads Up, who are frequent users of the Palace’s Community Garden facilities, were the first to walk through the new gate to the Palace’s gardens. The entrance is situated to the south of the Cathedral car park, just off St Andrew’s Street. There is space available for minibuses to park and level access into the gardens.

The project began in 2021 when more time and staff were dedicated to the Community Engagement programme, and

in particular, to allowing more groups to access and enjoy the Community Garden. A range of users from school groups to mental health charities currently benefit from the sessions, but the Community Garden is located at the furthest point from the Drawbridge, so, to allow those for whom access is more challenging to take part in the offering, a new entrance was proposed.

Merryn Kidd, Interim CEO at The Bishop’s Palace, said: “Grants received, including from The Medlock Charitable Trust and Sir John and Lady Heathcoat Amory’s Charitable Trust, made it possible for the Palace to improve accessible entry for all of our visitors to the Palace, which is a really important part of our strategy to welcome all. And what an entrance it is, with immediate entry into our glorious gardens.”

The Bishop’s Palace’s Wedding Fair will take place on October 15

Wedding Fair ideas and inspiration

THE Bishop’s Palace and Gardens in Wells is throwing open its doors to show off the medieval wedding reception venue and 14 acres of RHS partner gardens to couples at a new Wedding Fair on Sunday, October 15.

A selection of wedding suppliers will be on hand with a range of ideas and inspiration

for the big day. Tours of the event spaces and the grounds will also be on offer giving couples an opportunity to see the attractiveness of the venue.

Staff will be present to assist with questions and wedding inspiration. A free glass of prosecco on arrival will also be on offer.

Admission is free.

Wedding Fair at The Bishop's Palace and Gardens, Wells

Sunday 15th October 2023

Couples are invited to explore the stunning medieval wedding reception venue and 14 acres of RHS partner gardens at The Bishop's Palace's new Wedding Fair on Sunday 15th October.

A selection of wedding suppliers will be on hand with a range of fantastic ideas and inspiration for the big day Tours of the event spaces and the grounds will also be on offer

Free admission and free glass of prosecco on arrival

More at: www.bishopspalace.org.uk/venue-hire/wedding-fair

To

contact Andy on 01749 675157

Concert in memory of famous trumpeter

Wells City Band will be playing a concert in September in memory of John Wilbraham, a former band member and eminent trumpet player. Tanya Flagg explains more.

FOLLOWING the unforgettable experience of playing at the Glastonbury Extravaganza, as support for The Lightning Seeds and Texas, Wells City Band are preparing for their next big event. On Sunday, September 24, the band will be playing a concert in St Cuthbert’s Church at 7.30pm in memory of former member and professional trumpeter John Wilbraham.

John Wilbraham is considered one of the finest English trumpet players of the last 60 years. He had an illustrious career at the very top of the music profession as a soloist, recording artist and principal trumpet of several of the country’s symphony

orchestras. Despite this glittering career John had a very close association with Wells and in particular Wells City Band. His association with Wells came about when he was appointed as Trumpet Consultant at Wells Cathedral School which involved termly visits to the school to give masterclasses to trumpet pupils

on the specialist music scheme. John fell in love with the city and especially the Cathedral and attended evensong whenever he was in Wells.

Despite being in demand as a trumpet player in London and all over the UK, John decided to leave his home in London and moved to Wells, buying a house in St Cuthbert Street opposite the

south door of the church. John attended services regularly at St Cuthbert’s and at the Cathedral and he became a very well known and much-loved character around the city.

Shortly after his move he offered to play cornet with Wells City Band for free, often helping out on 3rd cornet or solo cornet, wherever the band needed. On some occasions he conducted the band and generously offered up his considerable experience to the band in rehearsals, and he was a big supporter of the band up until he died in his beloved Wells.

Early Bird tickets are £10 (£8 concessions) before September 14, then regular tickets are £12 (£10 concessions). To purchase tickets contact Jane Hill, janehill546@aol.com or phone 01749 675668. If you prefer to buy online look out on our website or Facebook page for online ticketing information.

Wells City Band played at this year’s Glastonbury Extravaganza

with the world famous

Treorchy Male Choir

Wells Cathedral

Saturday 23rd September 2023, 7pm

Book now at rmacb.org.uk

Use of the Cathedral is by kind permission of the Chapter of Wells

Trial starts with scything section of grass

Maddy Milnes of Sustainable Wells reports on recent Tor Hill Lane project activity

SUSTAINABLE Wells is pleased to provide an update on this lovely project in Wells and to acknowledge and warmly thanks those who have supported and helped us so far.

In July we started cutting the grass and as it’s a trial we are using different methods to see what works best for Nature. With the help of the superb Strawberry Line Association volunteers – Richard Jones, Richard Page, Andy Laight, Geoff O’Sullivan and Angie Benoy – we have started by scything a small section of the grass and left it to dry for week. With the help of three ‘hands on’ councillors: Tanys Pullin (Mayor), Denise Denis and Sarah Powell, and super local people: Tanya Smith, Eric Lewis and Nigel Milnes, the grass was collected up into three big piles. Our marvellous Outdoor Spaces team from Wells City Council came along and picked up the grass piles for composting. Cakes supplied by the Tor Hill volunteers: Kath Marsh and Naomi Deutsch. A wonderful exercise in cooperation and the shared joy of looking after Nature.

Further cuts will be carried out over the coming weeks either by scything or by ID Verde, and other raking days will be organised to collect up more grass. In the end there will be areas that have been scythed and cleared of grass; areas cut by ID Verde and cleared of grass; and

finally areas cut by ID Verde but left as in previous years, so we can assess the impact of the different methods. We are clearing dead grass from the fence as some residents prefer an overall tidy look. We are pleased to report that we have found no dog mess in the long grass.

Earlier in the month, a wildlife survey was carried out by Somerset Council’s very knowledgeable Biodiversity Officer Barbra Lakin, which revealed a wonderful selection of plants along the lane as well as interesting insects, birds, and butterflies.

Barbra said: “Not cutting the grass along Tor Hill Lane this year has allowed the wide range of plants and insects living here to show themselves. Knowing what already lives here is the first step towards supporting nature recovery. Along the path, we found wildflowers such as Meadowsweet, Meadow Cranesbill, Greater Willow herb, Knapweed, Purple Loosestrife, Comfrey, Yellow Flag Iris, Hogweed, and Cow parsley. An array of native birds was also present including the spotted woodpecker, goldfinch, and nesting blue tits. Insects such as butterflies are also thriving with sightings of Ringlet, Meadow Brown, Red Admiral, and Peacock butterflies as well as Darter dragonflies, and a very good colony of Banded agrion damselflies, a great indicator that the adjacent stream’s water is good quality.”

Another exciting find happened on a routine litter pick this spring, when we found a black oil beetle. A wonderful find and one that the Mendip Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty has identified as a target species. Most of the existing wild plants have now peaked and seeded. We plan to encourage an even greater variety of wildflowers and will sow native seeds in some test areas along the lane. It will be exciting to see what pops up next year.

If you would like help out with one of our ‘Rake for Cake’ days or to find out more please email me – maddy@milnes. myzen.co.uk

Scythers from the Strawberry Line Association, and members of Wells City Council Outdoor Spaces Team collecting the piles of grass

Weekend of motorcycling and sightseeing

WELLS Classic Motorcycle

Club’s 12th annual Tortoise and Hare event was held over the weekend of July 14-16.

Campers started to arrive on the Friday afternoon in preparation for a weekend of motorcycling and local sightseeing.

Saturday morning saw the Social Scenic Run to Westonsuper-Mare which attracted some of those camping plus some local riders, all enjoying the scenery on the way there and back over and around the Mendip Hills.

On the Sunday morning (July 16), Wells Football Club was the starting venue for the annual Tortoise and Hare run which again included a ‘Snail’ section for low-powered machines.

The club welcomed more than 125 motorcycles of all ages, these making a fine display of machines for this popular West Country event at

which much-needed funds are raised for Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance and EVS Freewheelers (The Blood Bikes).

Entries were attracted from various parts of the country, from as far afield as Surrey, Berkshire, Cornwall, Devon, Dorset and Hampshire as well as many local riders. The bikes entered ranged from Vintage to an NSU Quickly plus many immaculate classics and some

desirable modern machines.

The Mayor of Wells, Tanys Pullin, arrived in style on a Harley Davidson Trike and was ably assisted by Town Crier Len Sweales as they flagged off the groups onto their various run routes.

The routes took the entrants over the western and northern side of the Mendip Hills to Farrington Gurney Memorial Hall, where all the entrants

met for tea/coffee and biscuits. The entrants then took various marshalled routes over the eastern side of the Mendips as they made their way back to Wells for the lunch break with the Mayor as pillion passenger on the Trike.

This was followed in the afternoon by more scenic routes over the southern Mendips for both the Tortoise and Hare, while the Snail group, which was well attended for this year, took in a short route around the Wookey/Godney area.

All the groups returned to Wells Football Club for tea and cake and the presentations of the various class awards plus the raffle prizes, presented to the winners by Mayor Tanys Pullin.

For event pictures and club details, go to: www. wellsclassicmotorcycleclub. weebly.com

The date for next year’s event is still to be confirmed.

Aiming for positive impact

HELLO, my name is Megan Baron. I am a new PCSO to the Mendips and will be in Wells for six to eight weeks before joining the Shepton Mallet Neighbourhood Policing Team. Previous to my new role as a PCSO, I was a sports coach for school-aged children from families who were experiencing low income.

After moving from the east of the country six years ago, I attended school in the Radstock area, where I experienced challenges within an educational environment. This led to myself having a negative experience within education. Therefore, I am passionate about creating an inclusive environment for all within education. Further, due to personal experiences within education I hope to get into the local schools and make a positive impact to the young people within the areas I will be working in.

I joined the police because I wanted to make a positive impact within communities and create a safer environment for people

The latest from the local policing team with PCSO Megan Baron

living within our policing area. From a young age joining the police was always an interest to me, after leaving the University of Bath, joining Avon and Somerset Police was my next natural step in creating a career I could be proud of. Working in Avon and Somerset Police drew my attention due to the variety of locations our police force covers from rural areas to the urban cities.

As a new member of the Mendips, I look forward to meeting and working with the surrounding community.

Mayor of Wells Tanys Pullin starts the riders on their runs

Fresh look at world of fashion

A MENDIP-BASED handweaver and textile impact advocate has recently delivered a series of workshops to inform people with learning disabilities about fast fashion and the benefits of local, natural fibres.

Jade Ogden, founder of the Handloom Room and member of the South West England Fibreshed, obtained a bursary to make Fibreshed accessible to people with learning disabilities. As part of the project, she devised and ran a series of workshops for people with learning disabilities in the local area including at Orchard Vale Trust in Wookey, as well as SWALLOW in Westfield, OpenStoryTellers in Frome, the Reach Centre in Weare and the Hub in Yeovil.

The workshops were interactive and had lots of sensory elements, including sheep and alpaca wool, linen fibre, fragrant dye-plants

and even a bunch of dried stinging nettles. In contrast to the natural fibres, they also explored man-made, petroleumbased, unnatural fibres such as polyester and acrylic. The sessions addressed issues around fast fashion and the groups had the opportunity to sort through a charity shop ‘rag bag’ and look at the fibres that make up the clothes that are destined for waste – whether in the UK or abroad.

The South West England

Fibreshed is a community of textile growers, processors and producers based in the South West who advocate for clothing and textiles to be grown and made within the region, in a way that is actively beneficial to the environment.

“I have been concerned about fast fashion for many years and Fibreshed has helped me to discover an alternative where clothing can be fully local, biodegradable and good for the planet,” said Jade.

“I really wanted to make this learning accessible to more people and The South West England Fibreshed bursary enabled me to do that – now I want to do more.”

People who are interested in booking a similar workshop at a day service, school or community setting can find out more at Jade’s website www. thehandloomroom.co.uk/ workshops

THE Heart of the South West Growth Hub has launched a new service offering free, fully funded one-to-one digital business support.

Small and medium-sized businesses in Somerset, Devon, Plymouth and Torbay can get dedicated time with a Digital Business Adviser tailored to meet their unique business needs.

Starting with a Digital Business Review, the business and the adviser will work together to find digital solutions that align with the company’s goals. The adviser will take a deep dive into current business challenges and future plans, then suggest the best digital strategies to fast-track growth. Digital solutions could include digital marketing, social media, Search Engine Optimisation, and more.

For more, complete the Get in Touch form ticking ‘Digital Link’ at: heartofswgrowthhub.co.uk/ contact-us

Resources used during the workshops

Legal guidance with Chubb Bulleid

Section 21 notice reform – the end of ‘no fault’ evictions?

By Frances Hodgson

Work on new guide to accommodation

A NEW booklet is being planned that will provide a directory of overnight accommodation providers for visitors to the Wells area.

Dale Bray, the Manager at Wells Tourist Information centre, is contacting local hotels, B&Bs, campsites and caravan parks to see whether they would like to be included.

The Wells & Beyond booklet will be printed later in the year by St Andrews Press in readiness for the next tourism season. It will be available at Wells Tourist Information and every other TIC across Somerset.

There will also be a digital copy available online.

“We want to promote Wells

and this is one way of doing so,” said Dale. “We don’t have anything like it available here, but similar booklets have been a big success elsewhere.”

Businesses would pay a small fee to have their details listed in the booklet, which would be free for visitors to pick up and take away.

“Not everyone can access the internet to find out such information, and people like a physical copy of something that they can take away and refer to easily,” said Dale.

Accommodation providers can find out more about appearing in the booklet by contacting Dale on 01749 673091 or emailing tic@wells.gov.uk

Call for more hosts for Ukrainians

MORE host families are needed in Somerset to help support Ukrainian refugees who have been forced to flee their country.

Since the Homes for Ukraine scheme was launched in March 2022, Somerset has welcomed more than 1,500 Ukrainians to date, with host families playing a pivotal role in creating a safe environment for guests to re-settle and rebuild their lives in some way, supporting and helping them navigate a new life in the UK.

Chris Hall, Executive Director, Community Services at Somerset Council, said:

“We are now 500 days into this programme, and many of the guests now need to find a new host and be ‘rematched’, because their original hosts are approaching the end of their commitment.”

The key consideration for hosts is the ability to provide a bedroom and a comfortable place to live for a minimum of six months.

To find out more about the Homes for Ukraine scheme and to register interest in becoming a host, visit somerset.gov.uk/ housing-support/homes-forukraine

THERE have been discussions recently towards bringing an end to “no fault” Section 21 evictions. Talks which have been causing disruption among landlords and tenants.

An Assured Shorthold Tenancy (AST) is a form of tenancy on a property between a landlord and a tenant. These most commonly run for a minimum term of six months and there onwards on a rolling basis until one of the two parties issues notice to terminate the agreement.

If a landlord wishes to end the tenancy, they must issue notice

that the rules no longer match the times and as a result need updating.

If the Section 21 notice is terminated then the remaining option is to serve a Section 8 notice on the tenant, also referred to as “fault evictions”. These present grounds for repossessions such as where the tenant is in rent arrears or the property has deteriorated due to the tenant’s treatment of it.

However these are much more restrictive and require a certain level of evidence. Therefore, hand in hand with reforming Section 21 notices, the Government plans on reforming Section 8 notices so that the grounds on which landlords can regain their property are slightly wider.

upon the tenant. This is where Section 21 of the Housing Act 1988 comes in, otherwise just referred to as a Section 21 notice.

If the tenant hasn’t broken any part of the agreement, and therefore is not at fault, but the landlord still wants to terminate the tenancy they will serve a Section 21 notice. However, most recent parliamentary consultation and studies have concluded that this renders the renting market too unstable,

Overall it is still uncertain when these changes will be implemented and what exactly they will entail. It will be interesting to see whether they do alter the rental market to achieve the Government’s commitment towards ensuring a “fairer more affordable private rented sector that provides security and stability for both tenants and landlords”.

n Frances Hodgson is a Solicitor with Chubb Bulleid, a local firm who have offices in Wells, Street and Somerton.

Phone 01749 836100.

Website: chubb-bulleid.co.uk

Manager Dale Bray at at Wells Tourist Information centre

‘Hand in hand with reforming Section 21 notices, the Government plans on reforming Section 8 notices’

Simple way to get in touch for advice

CITIZENS Advice Mendip have rolled out new kiosks aimed at people with no internet access or phone who have problems contacting them for advice. The kiosks provide free access to an adviser by email or phone, or tell people how to access information on the Citizens Advice national website.

The kiosks are simple to use. Users just pick up the phone and they are connected to a local adviser without having to dial a number. Alternatively, they can use the computer screen by clicking on a box to request a call back or to send an email for advice.

Open Monday to Friday, 10am-4pm, the new kiosks are available now in the following locations: the Portway Annexe and the Town Hall in Wells; the Crispin Centre in Street;

Glastonbury Library; Shepton Town Council; and Frome Library and Town Council. Being located in public areas means they are readily accessible and serve as a reminder that help with a nagging issue is close at hand.

Faith Guest, Operations Manager for Citizens Advice Mendip, said: “We are introducing this service to reach out to those people in the community, maybe some of whom used to rely on our old drop-in sessions, who are vulnerable and may not be able to use the phone or the internet to contact us. The new kiosks offer a simple way of getting in touch with us.

“We’re not a faceless call centre – many of our advisers have been working in the local area for many years.”

Pupils at Stoberry Park Primary School were praised for their performances in The Wizard of Oz, which was staged at the school shortly before the summer holidays. Headteacher Andrew Shakesby said: ‘Our Year 5 and 6 children gave two fantastic performances of The Wizard of Oz, with Year 6 taking the principal parts. The children performed with enormous enthusiasm, commitment and professionalism.’

VACANCY:

ASSISTANT CLERK (ENVIRONMENTAL FOCUS) ST CUTHBERT (OUT) PARISH COUNCIL

An exciting opportunity has arisen to join a busy and forwardlooking parish council. The role involves a significant variety of work, in keeping with parish council responsibilities, from developing the council’s environmental focus, to planning and finance, from managing council assets to local government collaboration, from resident engagement to government consultations. Administrative and IT skills are essential. Financial acumen and multi-disciplinary interests are also desirable. Genuine interest in the environment, parish residents and parish business is required from a positive, ‘can-do’ candidate.

The role is for 20 hours a week, mostly working from home. Pay Scale is LC1 Level 16 (£13.70 per hour).

For full details visit www.stcuthbertout-pc.gov.uk/vacancies

Further details: Cllr Gill Pettitt on 01749 938104.

Closing date: Friday 15th September 2023

Apply to recruitment.stcuthbertoutpc@gmail.com

Wells Funeral Services is evolving

AS an independent business

Wells Funeral Services offers a personal, sympathetic, and friendly service to all our clients. Our aim is to ensure our clients feel cared for and listened to and helped to achieve the funeral they want and need because we believe that good funerals are incredibly important.

Year on year the business has been expanding with more and more people liking Rod’s approach to funerals as more and more families put their trust in us.

As we strive to help a wider community of people so they can get what they need from a funeral and funeral director, we have expanded our team. We have increased our number of carriers, known also as pall bearers, and others within the team have taken on new roles.

Nicky Sutton is now involved in the business outside of the role of celebrant, and joins Rod as an undertaker, to help him with the additional requirements of the business, but he also recognised the need for a lady undertaker in what is still a very male-dominated profession.

She is involved in all aspects of the business, from visiting families to discussing what they would like for a funeral, collecting the person who has died from their home, care home, hospital or hospice, the

care of their body and dressing them when they come into our care, then taking on the role of undertaker on the day of the funeral.

Nicky is professional, focused, yet empathetic and patient and

People Trust us with their Funeral Arrangements So Can You!

has been working alongside Rod since 2016, between them they make sure clients receive exactly what they wish to achieve from the funeral they are planning.

Rod’s son Blake is also becoming more involved in the business after spending the last couple of years learning all aspects of the industry.

He is in Wells every Wednesday on the market chatting with former clients and those who may approach him thinking about their future or that of a family member or friend.

He is also taking on the role of undertaker, and still only in his early twenties probably one of the youngest in the area.

Rod of course is still very much involved but recognises the fact he isn’t getting any younger! He will still be the first port of call when contacting the business and will be there every step of the way, whether up front or busy in the background ensuring every client receives the professional, caring and individual service that is required.

n To contact us, call 01749 670100 or 01761 233555.

The Wells Funeral Services team, top, that includes Rod Major and Nicky Sutton, above left, and Rod’s son Blake, above right

MESSAGE FROM THE MP

Range of options open to school-leavers

AS I write this, students across Somerset are eagerly awaiting A-level exam results, and by the time this is published, results day will have passed. Every year, there is a lot said in the media about results – and the differences year-on-year – as well as the pathways young people have chosen to take.

I think it is important to acknowledge a day which young people have been anticipating for a while and to stress that there are so many great options if the grades are not what are expected. The clearing system for university can provide comfort and support if things don’t quite go to plan, but that really is only one option in an array of routes anyone can take following leaving school.

While we are now in 2023 and the Covid pandemic has

Thoughts of Wells MP James

Heappey

passed, it still had such a huge impact on students and each week when I visit schools, there is an overriding feeling that each year group was impacted in a different way.

Teachers and all other staff have worked tirelessly over the past few years to ensure students

are as prepared as possible in challenging circumstances.

The great thing about this part of the country is that we also have a range of options following leaving school. Whether that be apprenticeships, college courses or straight into the workplace, there are other options than university.

University can be a brilliant experience and we can be so proud of the amount of students from Somerset excelling and attending fantastic institutions, but I have always been supportive of a range of opportunities for different skill sets.

Strode College – having introduced T-Levels recently –has broadened its offering and I am continually impressed with not only the breadth of courses which are available, but the

facilities with which students have access to, to hone their skills.

I hope our fantastic young people get everything they desire on results day, but – as ever – it is important to remember that they are not the be all and end all, no matter how much it can feel like it at the time.

As for the ongoings in Parliament, the summer recess is almost coming to an end, and while Parliament may not have been sitting in recent weeks, it is always a good chance to focus even more on constituency work and I continue to host regular surgeries across the patch. To book an appointment, it is best to get in touch with my team directly and they can point you in the right direction as to how we can help and when the best time to book an appointment is.

n IN DAYS GONE BY With Clare Blackmore

Crimes that resulted in transportation

“During the period of transportation as the punishment for a crime, thousands of men and women and children, most of whom were guilty of little more than small thefts, were processed through a brutal system. The weak, the young, the vulnerable, those unable to prepare a defence and most of all whose greatest misfortune was to be poor were packed onto ships and exiled.”

Lucy Williams: Convicts in the colonies. Transportation tales from Britain to Australia.

MORE than 162,000 convicts were transported to Australia between 1787 and 1858. Nineteen crimes could get you sent to Australia including: grand larceny, theft above the value of one-shilling, petty larceny, theft below the value of one shilling, buying, or receiving stolen goods, jewels, and plate, stealing iron, copper, lead or receiving these items, stealing from furnished lodgings, cutting down a tree in an orchard, stealing livestock.

Some of those sentenced to transportation were found guilty at the Somerset Quarter Sessions which were held by a Judge and jury at the Crown Court in Wells Town Hall.

fabric) the property of John Brown. Transportation for 15 years.

George Harris: stealing a male ass the property of Samuel Brine. Transported for ten years.

George Yerbury: for stealing from the coat of Charles Cullen, one purse containing three sovereigns plus other coins. Transportation for 15 years. John Hobbe: for stealing two bushels of potatoes, the property of William Salter. Transported for seven years.

John Harding, John Biggs and George Elton: for stealing one can, a quantity of treacle and butter, the property of William Pearse and also one tin can the property of Joseph Richards. Transported for ten years each. William Squire: for stealing a pair of breeches, the property of George Carey. Transported for seven years.

Cottle. Transported for seven years.

James Hallet: for breaking into a malthouse and stealing a pair of boots and other articles the property of Silvanus Longman. Transported for seven years.

Mark Bennett: for stealing from the person of Percival Cole, two half crowns and a sixpence. Transported for seven years.

James Squire: for stealing a quantity of coal, the property of John Hurd, having been before convicted he was sentenced to seven years transportation.

Abraham Howe: for stealing a sixpence, the property of William Kerslake, a former conviction being proved against him, ten years transportation.

John Wilson: for breaking into the dwelling house of William Johns, stealing a brass kettle and

other domestic items. Ten years transportation.

Somerset Quarter Sessions, Wells, April 1853

John Allen: for stealing a post letter containing three sovereigns, the property of the Postmaster General. Transported for ten years.

George Chappell: for criminal assault on Ann Somers: Ten years transportation, and for aiding and abetting, William Sweet: Ten years transportation.

George Nutt, William Haskins: for felonious assaults on Mercy Brimble and Jane Coles. Twenty years transportation each.

Samuel Chard: pleaded guilty to a charge of burglary. Ordered to be transported for seven years.

James Morley: pleaded guilty to a charge of arson. Sentenced to be transported for ten years.

James Thair and Harriet Thair: for burglary in the house of Samuel Fear. A tin kettle, some handkerchiefs and a hat stolen. The male prisoner sentenced to be transported for ten years. The wife was not exempt from responsibility and sentenced to 12 months in Shepton Mallet Prison with hard labour.

In 1868 convict transportation to Western Australia came to an end after 80 years.

It seems amazing when you stand in Wells Market Place and look at our fine Town Hall that the fate of the above persons was decided in that building.

Somerset Quarter Sessions, Wells, January 1852

Sarah Lucas: for stealing two pounds weight of fat, the property of Silas Downton. Transported for seven years. Women were no longer sentenced to transportation after April 1853 so Sarah Lucas would have been among the last of the women to be sentenced in this way.

Richard White: stealing a brass weight, the property of George Parker. Transported for ten years.

John Gear: for the stealing of a fustian coat (a thick coarse

Thomas Maroni: for stealing a sack and a peck of beans the property of Joseph Gane. Transportation for 15 years. Mark Bennett: for stealing from the person of Percival Cole, two half crowns and a sixpence. Transported for seven years. Joseph Oram: for stealing a bullock, the property of Jospeh Willis. Transported for seven years.

Henry Watts: for stealing a mare, the property of Henry Candy. Transported for seven years.

Edward Richards: for stealing 18 sheep, the property of John

The Judge at the Somerset Sessions would stay in the Judge’s Lodgings in New Street and be driven to the court in the Town Hall in his coach Picture: Wells & Mendip Museum

‘For stealing a pair of breeches, the property of George Carey. Transported for seven years.’

n WHAT’S ON

Update about path at coffee morning

THERE will be a progress report on the Strawberry Line at the Wells Labour Coffee Morning in September.

Long-standing Strawberry Line campaigner Richard Jones will speak about the history of this greenway project, how volunteers have driven progress and how increasingly supportive local councils are making the path a reality. Detailed updates on all sections between Clevedon and Shepton Mallet will be provided, alongside rarely seen photos and personal stories.

There will be additional input from Mick Fletcher, Chair of The Strawberry Line Society.

This will be followed by Lisa Pool talking about the St Cuthbert’s Out heritage list findings.

The Coffee Morning takes place on Saturday, September 23, at the Portway Annexe, Portway Avenue, Wells, from 10am-noon. Free entry, everybody welcome.

Cathedral concert by acclaimed choir

ACCLAIMED choir The Sixteen will be giving a concert at Wells Cathedral on Friday, September 8.

The Sixteen are currently touring across the country visiting 27 locations in what is the 22nd year of the ensemble’s Choral Pilgrimage.

The 2023 tour is inspired by the influence of William

PILATES AND BARRE

TUESDAYS

Pilates 9.15am

Pilates Seated Seniors 10.30am

WEDNESDAYS

Barre 5pm • Pilates 6pm

THURSDAYS

Pilates 9.15am • Barre 10.30am

FRIDAYS

Pilates 9.15am Location Wells Town Hall. Small, mixed ability classes. To apply, contact Sally at: zest2zen@gmail.com

ALMSHOUSES OPEN DAY

Saturday 9 September 11am – 4pm Free entry

Beautiful gardens and medieval homes to visit as well as the Guildroom and ancient chapel. Tasty savouries and cakes available.

Somerset Flutes playing from 12pm-1pm and popular Ukulele band playing between 2pm and 3pm. The almshouses are on two sites, one in Priest Row and the other at the back of St Cuthbert’s churchyard.

Byrd, presenting a programme exploring his life, works and pervading faith. His legacy is marked by the commission of two new compositions by Dobrinka Tabakova, bringing his musical heritage firmly into the modern day.

The programme also features works by Van Wilder, de Monte, Clemens Non Papa and Byrd himself.

Tickets for the Wells concert can be booked at thesixteen. com/book-online/54601

Painting group to exhibit their art

WELLS Painting Group is holding its 2023 exhibition in Wells & Mendip Museum, on Cathedral Green, in September.

Wells Painting Group was

founded in 1969 by popular local artist Pauline Phillips. After meeting in the Blue School for

many years, the group moved to St Thomas’ Church Hall where it meets regularly.

Group members paint a wide and varied range of subjects in all mediums.

The exhibition will be open from Tuesday, September 12, to Saturday, September 23 (excluding Sunday, September 17, and Monday, September 18), from 10am to 4pm.

The paintings are for sale and there will be cards available to purchase. Admission is free. For more information, tel: 07968 050526.

Social Dancing

SOCIAL Dancing (Ballroom, Sequence, Latin) takes place every Friday evening at Henton village hall near Wells, BA5 1PD, from 7pm to 9pm.

People do not have to be good, simply go along and join in. The cost is £6 per person, and refreshments are provided. For more information, call 07769 603937.

Folk club meetings

MR Punch’s Folk Club meets once a fortnight on a Friday at Theale Village Hall, BA5 1PN, from 8pm. Traditional and contemporary music, song and verse. Mostly open mic, with new performers always welcome.

More at punchsfolkclub. yolasite.com

The Tempest, Shakespeare’s story of rivalry and revenge, will be staged at Wells Little Theatre from Wednesday, September 13, to Saturday, September 16. Tickets are available from the website: www.wellslittletheatre.com. The cast of the production is pictured above. Picture: Greg Trezise / Adam Lanfranchi

The Bishop’s Eye by Wendy Lovegrove of Wells Painting Group

n WHAT’S ON Quiz Night taking place at Tramways

THERE will be an Oxfam Quiz Night at the Tramways, Wells, on Sunday, September 3, 7.30pm start. Teams of up to six, £4 per team member. To book, phone Terry on 01749 672342 or email terryricketts1948@gmail.com. Raffle prizes welcomed.

Wednesday dance meetings resuming

WELLS Folk & Barn Dance Club resume meetings on Wednesday, September 20, at St Thomas’ Church Hall, Wells. Doors open 7pm, dancing 7.30pm-9.30pm. No experience or partner necessary. For more, call 01749 674920 or see www.wellsfdc. co.uk

Drawing workshop that will calm minds

A MINDFUL Mandala Drawing Workshop will provide an opportunity to learn a new skill and calm the mind at the same time.

The two-hour workshop (10am-12pm) will be held on Thursday, September 21, in the room above the cafe at The Good Earth, Wells. Cost of £10. No previous drawing experience is required.

For further information or to register, contact Lyn on 07919 876566 or email lyndutch@ hotmail.co.uk

TAI CHI

Wells Blue Sports Centre

Mondays

6pm – 7pm

£5 per class

Bob 07791 291886

Scottish Dancers set to start new term

WELLS Scottish Dancers begin a new term on September 14. The Scottish country dancing group’s classes are held on Thursday evenings from 6.30pm to 8.30pm at the Blue School Sports Centre, Wells. All ages (over 18) are welcome, no experience is necessary, and no partner is needed. However, a reasonable level of mobility is required for this lively and sociable activity.

To learn more about Scottish dancing or to register interest in joining, call Ann on 01934 740065 or email ann. wellsdancers@gmail.com

Board game nights

WELLS Board Game Group will meet at The Quarter Jack, Priory Road, Wells, on Wednesday, September 13, and Wednesday, September 27, from 7pm9.30pm.

Irish Set Dancing

IRISH Set Dancing takes place on Thursday evenings in Dinder Village Hall from 8pm-10pm, from September to June. Beginners are welcome, and no partner is necessary.

£3 including refreshments. More information from Paul

Harper: 01458 210051 or paulharper@btopenworld.com

Sing-along sessions

GOLDEN-OLDIES sing-along sessions for older people take place on the first Wednesday of

each month at the Methodist Church Hall, 24 Southover, Wells, BA5 1UH, with Al and Annie Whitley. From 2.30pm3.30pm, with tea and coffee from 2.15pm.

Seated exercise

SEATED exercise classes are taking place in Seager Hall, Union Street, Wells, every Tuesday afternoon at 2.30pm. Carrie Hemmings is delivering the Love To Move sessions, which involve movement to music while sitting down. The cost to take part is £4 per person and £1 per accompanying carer. For more information, contact Carrie: 07818 303956 or email lovetomovemendip@ gmail.com

Upbeat evening

ALT-FOLK band Noble Jacks bring their high-energy footstompin’ rhythms to Cedars Hall in Wells on September 8. Tickets start at £16. More information at cedarshallwells. co.uk

Pub music events

FREE folksong and music sessions are being organised in friendly traditional pubs.

Advertise your event in our What’s On section with a single column display advert like this

Just £30 + VAT

Find out more by emailing sales@wellsvoice.co.uk

The Wells Folk Sessions take place on the second Monday of every month at Queen Victoria Inn, Priddy, 9pm till late; and the fourth Wednesday of every month at City Arms, High Street, Wells, 8.45pm till late.

All are welcome at the music nights to sing a song, play a tune or just listen and enjoy. More from Richard: 01761 412797, richardlm397@gmail.com

Health Tai Chi

PilogaFit

The Portway Artists are exhibiting in a new venue during Somerset Open Studios 2023. They will be showing works in various media by established and new group members at the Portway Annexe, Portway Avenue, from September 16 to October 1. Some refreshments will be available at the venue. Examples of members’ work are shown above.

AROUND THE SOCIETIES

WELLS TUESDAY WI

THE start to August has certainly been soggy! At Tuesday WI we have made a valiant attempt to overcome the weather…

The charity boules was fun, but wet. Walking netball became cocktail central (well, what else can you do when the court is in danger of becoming a swimming pool?). The short and easy walking group had a great walk in Burnham regardless of a downpour (and despite the presence of ‘Shirley our sunshine girl’), and our attempt to meet up with our sister WI (and dreams of a balmy evening chatter) were somewhat damp. Several brave souls managed a quick game of boules, I consoled myself with cake.

Luckily for the outdoor afternoon tea to celebrate my 60th it was beautiful sunshine. In addition, Treetop Ceramics hosted a group for glass fusion in a lovely workshop (whilst of course outside it poured), and the pottery wheel session was also indoors.

The county quiz was another awful downpour but we squeezed into the hall and our top team came second. The Hinkley Point tour was well attended and everyone learnt a great deal of information.

Blooming Fun have been out and about, and as always cottage garden flowers was excellent at Horton Cross. Lunch was also delicious. I can’t claim personally to have completed any knitting, but I can confirm lots of nattering has been going on. I’ve been reading in anticipation of the book club event at the literature festival. Lots of events to look forward to whatever the weather, and at least I don’t have to water the garden.

Anne Wilson (President)

COXLEY AND DISTRICT WI

WE invited some ladies from Walton WI to show us how to play ‘Kurling’. This appears to be becoming an annual event as everyone enjoys themselves so much. It ultimately became a knockout competition with Pat S and Carol winning on getting 55 points. Also we played host to Fiona from Wells Monday WI. She joined in too with the activities.

Hilary suggested a time and date (going to Wookey on August

25) for our next WI walk, last month’s having been cancelled. We meet at the Memorial Hall at 10am.

Peggy showed us the twiddle muff that she had completed since our last craft meeting, with another meeting scheduled for August 9 to continue with our efforts.

The next book club meeting was also taking place at Peggy’s on August 17 where we were going to discuss The Island of Missing Trees by Elif Shafak.

Val reported on our efforts in the county WI quiz held recently, we came third.

Our upcoming nearly new sale was discussed, it will take place at the Memorial Hall on October 7 from 11am until 2pm.

We next meet for a full meeting at the Memorial Hall on September 5 at 7pm. Visitors are most welcome to join us.

Ursula Dann

WELLS AND DISTRICT WILDLIFE GROUP

IT has been a challenging time for wildlife recently with prolonged periods of dry hot weather and an equally long periods of cool wet weather in July and August. The rain and periods of sunshine seems to produce some interesting responses in our wildlife. From the number of young wrens, blue tits and long tailed tits I have seen it appears many have produced second broods after unsuccessful breeding earlier in the year. It also seems a good year for butterflies. This has been confirmed by Butterfly Conservation’s ‘Big Butterfly Count’ last month. My small garden in Wells has been visited by a variety of species including red admiral, small tortoiseshell, large white, peacock, gatekeeper,

comma and common blue. I put my success down to having several plants of Verbena Bonariensis to attract a range of pollinating insects. Another plant popular with insects is the ice plant (Sedum spectabile) which produces a dense pad of pink flowers during September and October.

After experiencing the natural world over the spring and summer in a series of field trips, our programme of indoor meetings begins on September 26 at 7.30pm at the Museum on the Cathedral Green. The first talk in the programme, The Countryside Detective, is by retired vet Stephen Powles. Stephen will cover various methods of animal tracking including the use of trail cameras and will show how to identify certain species by their footprints and other tracks that they leave. Details of this and other events can be seen on our website www.wdwg.org.uk or you can phone Jean on 01749 677600.

We ask for a donation of £5 per adult – under 16s are free.

Graham Allen

WELLS ROTARY

WELLS

Rotary has turned a page and is looking for people interested in helping in the community and/or internationally. Rotary Clubs used to be for local businesspeople who became members by invite only and one person of each profession was allowed into its club.

Times have changed and our doors are now (and have been for some time) open to anyone who has a passion to do good in the world. If you have a desire to help but don’t know how – Rotary is the place for you. In our club it takes one person to have an idea and if other members of the club are interested in your idea you have a team to help you achieve your goal.

Some of you will already know that Wells Rotary have put on many events for the local residents of Wells including the Reindeer Parade, Boules Tournament, Youth Competitions, Meet the Sikhs and more.

Among examples of international support, Wells Rotary raises money for Water Survival Boxes, a means of purifying water for the benefit of families that survive natural or man-made disasters; some qualified Rotarians have helped on Mercy Ships that deploys hospital ships to some of the poorest countries in the world, delivering vital, free healthcare to people in desperate need; and Rotary has been working to eradicate polio for more than 35 years.

The club has two meetings a month which are on the first and third Monday. The first meeting is a social meeting at Anton’s in Wells when we have a sit-down meal and a guest speaker. On the third Monday we meet at Wells Museum for a business meeting which is where we talk about our projects. We also have other social events which takes us to theatres, skittles matches or a barbecue in someone’s garden.

Members are not expected to attend all meetings as we are aware that it is not always possible for people who work and have young families to give up too much time. If you are interested in learning more about Wells Rotary, contact Angela Cussell (Rotary President) at AC.WellsRotary@ gmail.com

MENDIP FIBROMYALGIA SUPPORT GROUP

AN enjoyable outing at Montacute was the highlight of the summer. We were entertained with a talk about filming at the house. We look forward to the next series of Wolf Hall that will be based there. We will return in the spring to enjoy the gardens.

For our August meeting we brought in an object that was special to us. We were really poor at guessing whose was whose. These objects opened up chatting about life before Fibro, and all were fascinated with the secrets unfolding. From a swim with a whale, making aeroplane models, home-made teddy, biblical lamp from Bethlehem, crochet blanket, a puffin, and a horse comb. We were reminded that we are more than just people with fibromyalgia – all had exciting memories of challenging lives – a new dimension to our understanding of each other.

Pat S and Carol, winners of the Coxley and District WI Kurling event

n AROUND THE SOCIETIES

We meet again at Binegar and Gurney Slade Memorial Hall on September 6 with a return of Andy and Kate Bluffield who will be bringing their dogs for us to cuddle – including a new puppy. The talk will be A life with dogs, horses and chickens.

October 4 will be a talk by Paul Denegri about music in care homes.

For more information about our group (that also covers long Covid and anyone with constant pain) do contact Tanya Flagg: tanya@mendipfmsg.org

WELLS U3A

WELLS u3a are always doing dynamic things and the Geology group is no exception. Back in May they explored the geology of Beacon Hill adjacent to the Fosse Way. We did have volcanoes in Somerset and the evidence is here amongst the bluebells. Andesite and rhyodacite lavas volcanic ash or tuffs are found with limestone fossiliferous siltstone and mudstone. Their walk covered three geological periods, Silurian which is the oldest in Somerset, Devonian and Jurassic.

Their next field trip was to the geology trail at Ham Hill guided by the knowledgeable Geoff, one of the Countryside Rangers. As is so often the case, our geology trips cover other aspects of the landscape, in this case from vegetation to dry stone walling via prehistoric settlements.

The most recent outing was a fascinating visit to Gully Cave in Ebbor Gorge. It is the site of an ongoing dig led by Professor Danielle Shreve from Royal Holloway University of London. Danielle spoke about the amazing finds from this dig as part of the Mendip Rocks Festival last year. To be able to visit and hear more about all the bones found here which shows we had hyenas, aurochs, Arctic fox and reindeer living in Ebbor Gorge at the end of the last Ice Age, made for a very special field trip.

Science Centre and are hoping he is going to extend the course in the autumn.

So what is next? They have already done the recce for a visit to St Audries Bay in September. There are also many opportunities for things geological during the Mendip Rocks Festival in October. We will be going back to the classroom at Wells Cathedral School where David Rowley will be helping them to think in four dimensions. If you would like to join us, please get in touch. No knowledge, just an enthusiasm to explore is required.

Susan Knight and Peter Shepherd

on offer is Cards for Pleasure. They are a friendly group who meet on a Thursday evening at the Conservative Club to play “anything but Bridge”. Canasta, Cribbage, Euchre, Kalooki, Besique and ready for new ideas. We would welcome some more players, so get in touch.

Margaret Robinson

At the beginning of September, a group of nearly 30 members enjoyed a day out to Whitchurch Silk Mill followed by a visit to Bombay Sapphire distillery only down the road from the silk mill. At the mill the group were able to watch a demonstration of the fine silk threads being woven into delicate silk fabric. They had a guided tour of the whole mill along with the history of the mill and process of the production. On then to Bombay Sapphire Distillery where the visit started with a drink of gin and tonic from a choice of various flavours followed by a conducted tour of the distillery.

All groups can be contacted via Wells u3a website if any take

your fancy – https://u3asites. org.uk/wells/home

Ann Brown

HENTON AND DISTRICT GARDENING CLUB

AFTER a very enjoyable summer of outings and a strawberry tea, Henton and District Gardening Club are looking forward to the first speaker in our varied autumn programme.

It begins with Micky Little and his intriguingly titled talk Smoke that Thunders – a Peripatetic Journey linking the life of plant hunter Ernest Wilson with Micky’s wide and interesting career in horticulture, from National Trust gardens including Killerton, Castle Drogo and Hestercombe to Achiemore in the Hebrides. Coffee is served from 7pm and the talk begins in Henton Hall at 7.30pm. Raffle, plant sales and the chance to renew membership and learn more of our wide and varied

Care

Care in your own home

Care in your own home

No need for an expensive care home

No need for an expensive care home

Stay independent at home with your own live in carer

Stay independent at home with your own live in carer

Many people want to stay in their own home as they get older

Alongside this they listened to talks on the Cornish China Clay industry, Metamorphism, lessons from the devastating 7.8 magnitude Turkish earthquake in February this year and modern geological dating methods. They have now had four sessions on the background to geology from Doctor Peter Hardy at the Earth

If you prefer a more sedentary occupation, you might be tempted to join our Poetry Appreciation group and enjoy reading poetry, ancient or modern. They are a small friendly group who meet in St Thomas Street every other Monday to read and discuss poetry. Over the years they’ve covered a variety of poets, such as Wordsworth, John Donne, W H Auden and Ted Hughes, as well as some who are still very much alive and writing. Each poet is chosen by a member who then tells us a bit about them before we all read the poems. For alternative meetings they read poems linked to a subject.

Care in your own home

Care in your own home

Care in your own home

Care in your own home

Care in your No need for an

No need for an expensive care home

No need for an expensive care home

No need for an expensive care home

No need for an expensive care home

Many people want to stay in their own home as they get older

Stay independent at home with

Care has been providing live in carers since 1986

Stay independent at home with your own live in carer

Stay independent at home with your own live in carer

Stay independent at home with your own live in carer

Stay independent at Many people 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

Many people want to stay in their own home as they get older

We believe in only the very best care at an affordable cost

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 only the very best care at an affordable cost

During the summer they enjoy a poetry-themed day out, past visits have included Coleridge’s house and Thomas Hardy’s cottage; this year we are visiting the Salisbury area. If you would like to join us we have vacancies.

Norman Hodghton

Another less physical activity

Featherbed Care has been providing live in carers since 1986

Featherbed Care has been providing live in carers since 1986

Featherbed Care has been providing live in carers since 1986

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 Call

Call for a brochure today 0117 9860710 / Freephone: 0800 111 4885

Email: featherbed@featherbedhomecare.co.uk

www.featherbedhomecare.co.uk

Featherbed Care has been We believe in only the Call for 0117 9860710 /

Email: featherbed@featherbedhomecare.co.uk

www.featherbedhomecare.co.uk

Professor Danielle Shreve holding a radio-ulna of a very large steppe bison (Bison priscus), an extinct species

n AROUND THE SOCIETIES

From page 43

programme of talks and visits this coming season. Visitors most welcome (£5). Further details at hentongardenclub.weebly.com

WELLS FLORAL ART CLUB

IT has been a year in the planning and raising funds. However on August 10, Wells Floral Art Club celebrated their 70th Platinum Anniversary with a Flower Festival in The Bishop’s Palace.

We were very pleased that the Mayor of Wells Tanys Pullin was able to spare the time to open the festival for us. Wells club is a member of the National Association of Flower Arrangers and we were delighted to have the support of the South West Area’s most talented national and area demonstrators.

National demonstrator

Pam Lewis, NAFAS National Associate of Honour, began our trip down memory lane by depicting the 1950s. Using garden flowers in vintage containers and baskets Pam and her colleagues from Devizes filled the entrance with delicate pink and cream garden flowers. Wells club’s own arrangers Pat Ardron and Debbie Coburn together with Wells club members took us through the Sixties reminding us of Mary Quant, a trip to the moon, Woodstock and of course England winning the World Cup.

On into the Seventies and designer Catherine Brown filled the conference room with rays of sunshine by filling it with glass containers of sunflowers, vintage sewing patterns and macramé, depicting the resurgence of crafting and self-expression. South West area chairman and prize-winning flower arranger Coral Gardiner designed the Eighties room. As a child of the Eighties she took ten of the best songs of the time and depicted them in flowers and then set the visitors the task of naming them. Chew Valley club members ably helped Coral set up her fun idea.

The 1990s saw the rise of the Spice Girls and each girl was depicted in a pedestal arranged by members of Farmborough Flower Club led by their chairman, Ann Bevan. They also included some of the floral fashions and styles of the day. Nick Heal is an area demonstrator, florist, flower

grower and willow weaver. His sunflowers were used in the Seventies room. Nick used the Eden Project and The Kew Garden Millennium Seed Bank as his inspiration. Many of his arrangements used dried flowers and plants that will continue to be used well after the festival is over. Nick teaches at Bicton College two days a week showing his students the art of willow weaving and he agreed to teach some of our members and those from mid-Somerset to make some of the poppy seeds on display in the garden.

Finally, Lucy Ellis, member of Devizes club, another of our talented national demonstrators, based her arrangement on the effects of climate change, arranging her flowers in an ever decreasing size to illustrate how flower crops will change over time. We were delighted that The Bishop’s Palace’s own gardeners were able to arrange flowers at the entrance all of which had been grown in the Palace gardens with the help of their volunteers.

Our next demonstration will be held in St Thomas’ Church Hall on Tuesday, September 12, at 2.15pm. National Demonstrator Michael Bowyer MBE will entertain us with As Autumn Approaches.

Jenny Jones

WELLS & DISTRICT GARDENING CLUB

ACCORDING to an ancient Arab legend, when Adam was booted out of the Garden of Eden along

with Eve, he was permitted to choose one piece of all the many plants in Paradise to take with him. He took a sprig of myrtle. Now, it’s not recorded what Eve thought about this but she doubtless gave him quite an earful. We don’t know, either, what he had in mind to make the planet flourish.

In his defence he possibly argued that, with the help of a bit of double-digging and plenty of elbow grease, Nature would take its course. Which it did and is still doing with a vengeance. Those reliable periods of consistent weather patterns are a thing of the past. We say to each other how early everything is. Rose hips, pyracantha and cotoneaster berries started ripening at the end of July.

One garden which revelled in autumn abundance was Stourton House Garden adjacent to Stourhead. Here the late Elizabeth Bullivant with her husband created a garden which was a match to Stourhead.

Anthonty Bullivant looked after the structure of the yew walks and pathways while Elizabeth did the planting. Her philosophy was simple and unorthodox;

she let plants grow where they wanted.

At its peak it was a garden full of charm and unusual plants all year round. But in autumn, the hydrangeas and berries came into their own. For many years she would bundle huge bunches of rose hips and hydrangeas of all colours into her van and trundle off to Vincent Square in London where she would scoop first prize at the RHS Autumn Show. It was always properly autumn with darkening afternoons full of mist and a whiff of winter in the air. A spectacular bonus at the garden was the sumptuous display of cakes produced by her daughter Caroline. Nowadays, autumn shows seem to be in September. Things are changing and it’s time to do our bit.

In the Wells Town Hall on September 14 at 7.30pm, the Gardening Club will be welcoming Sally Nex as guest speaker. The talk entitled Gardening the Low Carbon Way will deal with the problems which face us all. What we can do in the garden is taking on a huge importance. We can make a difference. Sally, writer, gardener, designer and lecturer, is not only knowledgeable but speaks with immense authority based on experience. There will be refreshments and everyone is welcome to come along, whether gardeners or not, visitors, residents or those new to the area. Members £1, Visitors £3, Free admission to under 16s.

For more details tel: 01749 679182 or visit: wellsgarden.club Pip Harwood

Early ripening hips

Two of the exhibits at the Flower Festival in The Bishop’s Palace: Wells Floral Art Club’s depiction of Mary Quant in the Swinging Sixties, above, and Farmborough Club’s depiction of Sporty Spice, right

Wells players make mark on national stage

JULY 21 saw the start of the British Chess Championships at De Montfort University in Leicester. This lasted 10 days and consisted of various separate tournaments.

Sasha Matlak, Matt Goatcher and Solomon Hayes made the journey to the East Midlands, looking to put Wells on the British Chess map. A warmup on the Thursday evening was a tricky nine-round Blitz tournament. Solomon came away with 2 points and Matt with 3 but Sasha finished in joint fourth with 6 points.

On Friday all three played in a high standard Rapid tournament. Matt scored 2 points while Solomon notched up 3 including a very impressive draw against a player ranked 2187. Sasha thrived in this elite company, once again, finishing joint fourth with a score of 5.

A gruelling Friday ended with the first round of the weekend Classical event. Solomon (1613) played in the Soanes Under 1750 category, Matt (1699) in the Penrose Under 2000 and Sasha (2136) in the Atkins Open section.

Matt was competing in a high level with all his opponents graded 1860 or above. Never looking outplayed he came away with 2/5 and a very commendable performance. Sasha fought hard against tough opposition in the Open

section. He scored 4/5 and took a share of second place. He was delighted and this follows hot on the heels of his success in winning the Denys Bonner Trophy at the Somerset Championships in May. Solomon chalked up a series of wins, many long and hard fought. His impressive performance secured a share of first place with 4.5/5. Solomon stayed for another week playing three more events. His best performance was a share of fourth place in the Under 1750 afternoon section with 4/6. At the end of it all Solomon finished with 11/17 in his Classical matches which is very impressive at this level and no mean feat of endurance over 10 long days of chess.

Wells Chess Club welcomes new members to its meetings at the Globe Inn on a Wednesday evening. Contact wellschessclub@outlook.com for more information.

100 competitors in trophy event

GOLF

ONE hundred competitors played in the Centenary Trophy Team event at Mendip Golf Club which was won by Martin Myers/ Andy Parfitt/Alan O’Leary/Dale Rowe with 90 points.

The Avalon C Team halved their match with Brean, wins from Tony Logan/Paul Reakes, Mike Rokitowski/Chris Butland and Dave Goldie/Joe Gibbs, but they followed this with a disappointing heavy defeat when visiting Stockwood.

Mendip’s very young youngsters continue to gain competitive experience with Tildee Rocker-Cook and Lauren Morris playing in the latest

Chance to play

BADMINTON

PLAYED before but want more practice? Looking to get back into badminton after a break? Wells City Badminton Club plays on Wednesday evenings at Wells Leisure Centre from 7pm-9pm. Standard is intermediate and above. Call Chrissie for more details: 07971 340591.

Somerset Girls 9 hole event at Weston.

The Ladies Stableford saw a win in Div 1 for Lynn Cox with 34 points. Div 2 went to Ann Padley with 37, and Div 3 was won by Victoria Hicks with 36 points. The nine-hole event was won by Liz Rose with 18 points.

The Ladies ICL Team gained a good victory over Tall Pines 4-3 with wins for Chris Williams, Ann Padley, Anita Butcher and Louise Scott.

The Seniors visited Saltford and came away 4-3 winners. Successful for Mendip were Phil Brocks/Tony George, Rod Dyson/Robert Miller, Terry Carter/Colin Davies and Nigel Cheshire/Malcolm Dawkins.

Weekly meetings

TABLE TENNIS

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

View every edition online at issuu.com/wellsvoice

From left, Solomon Hayes, Sasha Matlak and Matt Goatcher in Leicester

Audrey, left, and Evie, right, of Wells City Warriors U10 have been selected, after a round of three trials, to the Somerset FA’s Girls Emerging Talent Centre. Both will continue to play for Wells City Warriors as they prepare for the 2023/24 season in the Yeovil Mini League. The Emerging Talent Centre is designed to support the development of elite female players across the South West from U10s to U16s. It is hosted at Strode Sports Centre in Street, with players given additional training development and fixture opportunities.

NOTE After feedback from readers, we have made The Fiend SLIGHTLY

COMPUTER SERVICES