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September 2018 Issue 15
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I’ll beat cancer for the sake of my grandson THE chief marshal at Wells Carnival for more than 20 years, Martin Coppell, has vowed to beat the cancer he has been diagnosed with for the sake of his newborn grandson. Martin is awaiting an operation after discovering that he had the rare bile duct cancer just two weeks after the birth of his first grandchild, Alfie. “He’s my inspiration. He’s my angel,” said Martin, aged 57. “He’s come into my life to make sure I’m around to take him to school. I want to play football with my grandson. I want to do the normal things granddad’s do. I’m not going to let anything stand in the way of that.” Lorry driver Martin was at Musgrove Park Hospital in July for Alfie’s birth by emergency caesarean and started to feel unwell soon afterwards, which he put down to the heat and the anxiety. But in the days that followed he began to be sick and have dizzy spells, until he was too
NEWS Paddington film star makes career switch to become apprentice at tattoo studio Turn to page 3 Wells could end up with three hand car washes after plan unveiled for one at Tesco Turn to page 6 Pom pom dance teacher Tina set to light up TV screens after taking up BBC’s challenge Turn to page 16
PROPERTY Find an amazing new home to buy or rent with the help of this month’s Property section Pages 28-30
WHAT’S ON Dozens of suggestions for things to do, from an antiques market to zen meditation Pages 32-34 Martin Coppell holding a photo of his grandson Alfie unwell to drive home after making a delivery. After a number of tests, a doctor at the same hospital where Alfie was born told Martin that he had cancer.
“I paused, and said, ‘Right, what are we going to do to beat it then?’,” said Martin. “I was determined right from Continued on page 5
WELLS BED SHOP
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I chose Kingfisher because it had made an excellent job of my daughter’s house and I like to support local business when possible. The customer service was very good and they were extremely helpful, efficient and made a first class job with the installation. I would definitely recommend Kingfisher to my friends.” - Barbara Biggin, Cheddar
Everyone at Kingfisher is pleasant, helpful, a pleasure to deal with and have on site. We are extremely pleased with all aspects of our installation and the after sales service has been excellent. A first class company whom we have no hesitation in recommending.” - Mr and Mrs Whittle, Draycott
Kingfisher is a local, friendly, family set up. We were given the opportunity to look at previous installations locally which reassured us that we had made the right choice. We would definitely recommend Kingfisher.” - Mr and Mrs Parker, Cross 8 Mill Batch Farm, East Brent Near Highbridge, TA9 4JN Tel 01278 760616 hello@thekingfisherfamily.com
14a Broad Street Wells, BA5 2DN Tel 01749 671431 www.thekingfisherfamily.com
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n NEWS
Plan to reopen Mermaid as pub with eight boutique bedrooms
Maddie Harris works on a design at Last Dragon Tattoo
From film studio to tattoo studio THE teenager who had a starring role in hit film Paddington has changed direction by becoming an apprentice at Wells tattoo studio Last Dragon Tattoo. Maddie Harris spent much of her youth studying, drawing and taking parts in various television and movie roles, including playing the part of Judy Brown in Paddington and Paddington 2. Other roles have included appearances in Casualty, Being Human and Man Down. But now as she grows older she has decided her real love is in art – and what better place to hone these skills than in a tattoo studio? “I’m really loving it, it’s really nice to have a job that’s having fun but that’s also so creative,” said Maddie, aged 17. It has been a year of change and development for Last Dragon Tattoo in St Cuthbert Street. Since the addition of the new piercing booth, owner Matt Mason and shop manager Lulu Breeden find themselves busier than ever, with a positive outlook for the future.
For Matt and Lulu it was an easy decision to take Maddie on board. “When we first met her we knew she would fit in, she is the best apprentice we have had,” said Matt, which can only mean great things from a studio which has serviced Wells for over a decade. Maddie herself talks little of her acting career, a time she is leaving behind to focus on her art, in particular mandalas, taking inspiration from nature. Though it isn’t only paintings and drawings Maddie enjoys, sculpting is also a passion of hers, something she wishes to do more of in the future. But for now she is sticking to tattooing, something which she says she is enjoying a lot, especially working with Matt and Lulu who have taken her under their wing. At the moment she is working with small designs which are available to see on the Last Dragon Tattoo Facebook page. Georgie Robbins
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THE Mermaid Inn could reopen as a pub with eight boutiquestyle letting rooms on the first and second floors. Plans have been submitted to Mendip District Council to breathe new life into the building in Tucker Street that has been boarded up for years. According to the planning application: “The existing facade will be reinstated to incorporate all original features of the building with new windows and doors throughout. New signage and lighting will be subtle and considerate to the local area, in keeping with the scheme of works.” The individually designed en-suite accommodation rooms will be created in what was previously management accommodation. A separate planning application has been submitted for the demolition of the skittle
The boarded up Mermaid alley behind the pub and the building of a terrace of three three-bedroom houses. Stone from the skittle alley will be incorporated into the material used for the new houses, and there will be a new boundary wall with vehicle access gates and a pedestrian gate between the houses and the pub.
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September 2018
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More retailers set up shop in Wells THE retail sector in Wells has seen further changes with the opening of two pet shops, and another clothes shop set to open soon. New owners have taken on what was Thatchers pet shop in Queen Street, Pets Corner has opened in one of the new units in Princes Road, and a new clothes store is due to open in Wells High Street in September. Natural Pets Of Wells, as the former Thatchers shop is now known, has been opened by Nigel and Heather Derrick, who have run the Columbard Pets shop in Midsomer Norton High Street for almost four years. “We both had many years’ experience in the farming industry in the days before small working farms became almost extinct, so a life where animal care and welfare are paramount is ingrained into us both,” said Heather.
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“The experience we brought from caring for a wide variety of farm animals, plus probably caring for an even wider variety of pets courtesy of having three children who adored everything with fur or feathers, has certainly proved very useful.” Heather said that the shop will stock a good selection of raw and grain-free feeds and treats for dogs, cats and ferrets, in addition to a comprehensive selection of other quality brands, alongside everything else needed for pets from budgie perches to hamster balls and wild bird feeds. She added: “Our staff are our greatest asset, they are all passionate about animal care and every single one of them always goes above and beyond
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Nigel Derrick at Natural Pets Of Wells, above, and a poster in the window of the Quba store, left for customers. They are all incredibly supportive of us spreading our wings to grow the business as well. We certainly couldn’t do this without their support so as I’m sure many other small business owners will agree, when you have a small business your staff work with you, rather than for you.” Pets Corner opened its doors in Wells at the end of July. The company says it has been at the forefront of animal nutrition since 1968, and describes itself as the home of natural pet foods. Managing director Dean Richmond said: “We are delighted to be expanding our stores within Somerset, to be able to provide more people and
pets with better nutrition and quality products.” The Quba & Co clothing chain that is opening a shop in Wells High Street has opened 22 stores in the UK since it was founded in Salcombe, Devon, in 1996. “Quba & Co are proud to be opening a new store in Wells in September,” said area manager Marina Ragageles. “Our new store will offer our collections of ladies and men’s clothing and accessories inspired by the coast and displaying quality, individuality and great attention to detail. We will also be offering our iconic X series, which is steeped in our heritage.” The store will take over the premises vacated by clothes retailer East, nearly opposite the recently opened Seasalt clothes shop, with fashions inspired by that chain’s Cornish heritage.
Wine shop moving to The Crown THE Grape and the Good, the independent wine shop on Priory Road, Wells, set up by Andrew Kinnersley nearly three years ago, is on the move. To give his customers more choice and flexibility, Andrew has decided to move his business lock, stock and barrel to the front section of Anton’s Bistro, within The Crown in the Market Place. His current shop will close on September 1 and reopen, in partnership with Anton’s Bistro, at the beginning of October. With more space available, it means that customers will be able to sit down and enjoy their choice of drink at a table, and whet their appetites with small plates of food or choose something from the full menu.
The new set-up will also offer more flexibility as it means Andrew’s business can operate seven days a week, with tastings and dinners on the cards for the future. “There’s nothing like this in Wells and I’m really excited about it,” said Andrew, whose first job after leaving school 20 years ago was at The Crown. “I’ve very much enjoyed the last few years at Priory Road and am very grateful to all my loyal customers who I have enjoyed getting to know and look forward to seeing at the new location soon,” he added. There will be more details on social media during September, or contact Andrew by emailing info@thegrapeandthegood.com
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New vets team keen to build on local links A NEW vets will be opening in Wells this autumn after five years of planning. Shepton Vets are opening their first new branch practice at Cathedral Park behind Premier Inn. The companion animal side of the practice has been growing steadily and the number of vets has increased from three to eight in the past 10 years, so the new branch is intended to help meet the growing needs of Wells, Shepton Mallet and surrounding villages. Wells Vets already has strong ties to the community as the main team members have grown up in or around Wells, and all attended Wells Blue School. “The whole team are really excited about opening the Wells branch,” said director and small animal vet Martin Law. “I grew up in Wells and it’s always been an ambition of mine to run my own practice in the city. It’s fantastic to have such talented colleagues that have also grown up in the area and feel as passionately about working in the community as I do.”
The Wells Vets team pictured at the site of the new practice. From left: Callum Brook, Georgina Vernoum, Josh White, Natalie Hill and Martin Law Vet Josh White said: “Having the opportunity to help run such a new practice where I grew up is something I’m really looking forward to. I’m sure there will be many familiar faces – and probably some I haven’t seen since school.”
The new practice will be the first purpose-built vets surgery in Wells. It is undergoing its final fixtures and fittings, with a
planned opening date for early October. The practice will be announcing a date for an open day soon when the community will be invited to have a look inside. The out of hours emergency service will be shared with the team at Shepton, said Martin, providing a comprehensive first opinion service for small animals clients. “The practice has developed services such as keyhole spays, health plans to spread the cost of routine healthcare and feline friendly status to meet the needs of clients and will continue to invest in new services for the benefit of patients,” he said. “The team across both practices have expertise in all areas of feline, canine and exotics work, with two team members currently studying for their advanced certificates in medicine and surgery.”
Martin vows to win cancer battle From page 1 the start that I was going to beat this. I kept saying: ‘I’m not going yet, I’m not going down without a fight’.” Martin has been involved in carnival for more than 40 years, since joining Mendip Vale Carnival Club as a 13-year-old, and is the longest serving chief marshal in Somerset. He will be chief marshal in Wells again this year, though he will reduce the number of meetings he attends. “I love it so much. It’s been my life,” he said. “Once a year you feel proud. As soon as you step over the line with that first cart, it makes the hairs on the back of your neck stick up.” Martin told committee members about his illness at the Wells Carnival AGM at The Britannia Inn, and explained that he would not be able to do as much as in previous years. “We’re 100 per cent behind Martin fighting for his health, carnival comes second,” said
president Maurice Day. An appeal was made for more volunteers to help before, during and after the carnival with tasks such as marshalling and putting out road signs and barriers. People interested should email vice-chairman Charlotte Broom: charlottewellscarnival@gmail. com It was also pointed out that local organisations can earn money by collecting on carnival night and counting afterwards, earning themselves 40 per cent of the proceeds. Last year’s street collection in Wells totalled £14,071, it was revealed, whereas in 2016, when it rained, £7,294 was collected. Programme sales in 2017 made £4,468 compared to £1,288 the year before, traders brought in £3,185 compared to £2,225, and donations received were £1,034 compared to £105. The committee decided that there will be no Carnival Queen competition this year. Wells Carnival takes place on Friday, November 16.
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September 2018
n NEWS Proposal for car wash at Tesco
The Plastic Free Wells team has given six local businesses their Surfers Against Sewage certificates to acknowledge their help in Wells gaining accreditation as a Plastic Free Community. Pictured above is Nick Hampson receiving the certificate for The Bishop’s Table from Laura Sorensen, Tom Ronan, Maggie Sutton and Meredith Roberts
Appeal for help over busking A COUPLE who live in Wells city centre say that buskers are spoiling the enjoyment of their home. Jenny Cameron and Tony Dawson live above Cadeaux & Co in High Street, and say that the noise from street entertainers can be “atrocious”. They asked whether anything can be done to help them at the PACT (Partners and Communities Together) meeting held in Wells Town Hall on August 21. “Our problem is not buskers in general, but the ones that play outside NatWest Bank, directly beneath our living room and bedroom,” said Jenny. “There was a trumpet player with amplified music and the
noise was so much that even when I turned up the TV I couldn’t hear anything. It can be extremely intrusive.” She said other instruments played outside include bagpipes, a digeridoo and a soapbox guitar and drums. Another guitarist had a pet dog with him – and the dog had ear-muffs on. “People say it’s the Wells experience but for us it’s atrocious,” said Tony. “I give money to the buskers, I talk to the buskers. I’m not anti-busker,” he added. PC Darren Pearson said that the police did not have the power to move someone on, but might be able to talk to the buskers if an officer was available.
The couple were urged to keep up a dialogue with Wells City Council, and Wells county councillor Tessa Munt and Mendip District Council enforcement officer Ian Glover discussed the issue further with them after the meeting. Addressing the issue of beggars and rough sleepers in Wells, PC Pearson said that the police had visited all of them, signposting them to organisations that could help and issuing warning letters to any suspected of begging. He said that currently there did not appear to be anyone sleeping rough in the city centre, and he was not getting any calls about begging.
Fundraiser for Christmas party
n ON THE BEAT
Summary of recent crimes in city I HOPE you have all been enjoying the fabulous hot weather we have been experiencing, unfortunately as I am writing this it appears that autumn is fast approaching, as it is considerably cooler with a constant misty rain. The following is a crime summary for the past 28 days in Wells. n 13 assaults, 5 of which resulted in the victim being injured n 12 thefts the most of which were 8 shoplifting offences n 12 criminal damages, 6 against a vehicle, 1 against a dwelling and 5 other n 12 public order offences n 8 harassments offences
News from the local policing team with PC Darren Pearson n 5 malicious communication offences n 2 burglaries and 2 attempted burglaries
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THERE could be three hand car washes in Wells if an application for one at the Tesco site in Tucker Street is approved. Plans have been submitted to Mendip District Council for the change of use of nine parking spaces to a hand car wash and valeting operation, including the installation of a cabin and erection of a canopy. As Wells Voice reported last month, the council has already approved plans for hand car washes at Palace Farm and The Old Cold Store. The car wash at Tesco would be at the back of the car park, near the recycling area. Applicants Waves Consultancy Ltd say that it would create an estimated four full-time and four part-time jobs, and that they can wash five to six vehicles at any one time. Customers would be able to stay in their vehicle while it is washed, or leave it to be washed while they visit the store.
n 2 threats to commit criminal damage n 1 sexual offence One of the more serious offences that you may have heard about took place on August 5 in the early afternoon at Morrison’s Car Park, whereby the victim was attacked by a number of individuals and hit with a hammer. This incident was witnessed by several members of the public due to the time of day. The suspects have been identified, arrested and interviewed about this incident. They have been released under investigation while further enquiries are carried out.
CHILDREN with cancer will be able to enjoy a special Christmas party thanks to money raised at a coffee morning in Wells. There will be a bouncy castle, tombola, face painting, raffle and lots and lots of cake at the coffee morning being held at The Wells Blue Sports Centre on Saturday, September 22, from 10am until 2pm. All money raised will go towards throwing the paediatric oncology patients at Musgrove Park Hospital a Christmas party. If anyone would like to donate to the raffle or tombola, or would be kind enough to bake, they are asked to get in touch on ezzysjourney@yahoo.com.
Downs winner THE competition to win two tickets to The Downs music event on Clifton Downs, Bristol, on September 1 was won by Mark Cornish. Acts playing include Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds, Paul Weller and Orbital.
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September 2018
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Following a scorcher in July, it’s safe to say August brought our burnt front lawns back to life again. It also filled up the Bishops Palace moat just in time for the famous annual Moat Race which brought hilarious entertainment and fun, all for a good cause. We hope you all enjoyed the August bank holiday, that last chance for the family to get together before a new term back at school in September. From all the team here, we hope you have had a lovely summer and we look forward to welcoming you through our doors in the near future. Tudor & Lucy Hopkins
‘THE PRESS NIGHT MURDER’ AT THE WHITE HART Infamous theatre producer Will Killwright invites you the press night for his current hit show. Mingle with the leads Stu Grant and Julie Bench as they join you for dinner... who knows what drama will unfold as events play out and secrets come to the surface.
Pencil Saturday 27th October, 6.30pm into your diary and join us at The White Hart for the dinner event of the season. Enjoy a decadent 5 course taster menu prepared by Head Chef, Chris Wall, and be entertained by Candlelight Murder Mystery Company.
Stu and Julie are the leads for now but will Julie’s understudy get a chance to seize the spotlight? All will be revealed as you join Candlelight Murder Mystery Company for The Press Night Murder.
Tickets £49.50 per person and are selling fast so booking is essential. You are welcome to dress for the occasion! Menu Roast pumpkin soup, toasted seeds, cumin oil Roast breast of free range chicken, fondant potato, wilted greens, red wine sauce Lemon tart with orange sorbet
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September 2018
n NEWS
Charming man who did so much
Chance to have items repaired
THE children of Danny Unwin, who has died at the age of 71, say they will remember with pride their “charming, loyal and very funny” father. A former mayor of Wells, Danny originally came to the city as head of home at Fletcher House. He went on to become a long serving city and district councillor, and ran Unwins Funeral Directors with his wife Christine and daughter Becky. “Dad loved Wells, and was always looking for things to do,” said children Becky Lane, Tim Unwin and Karen Hoogesteger. “He did lots for Wells as he was in the Lions for around 25 years. Our childhoods were spent helping out at Lions events. One year we manned a Bovril stand at the fireworks display in Wookey which was very glamorous. “He then also did Music on the Green which again we were all part of. He thought how lovely it would be to have an event with the Cathedral as a backdrop and that’s all it took, he went off and did it.” Inspired by the Lions of Bath, in 2012 he organised the Swans of Wells, 60 decorated swan sculptures to mark the Queen’s 60th jubilee that went on public display before being auctioned. “He spent hours talking to businesses to get sponsorship and get it off the ground. Thanks to Dad’s relentless work on the project and the support of businesses within Wells, the project raised over £110,000 for local charities. For us the swans are his legacy and we’ll be
SUSTAINABLE Wells are holding another Repair Cafe in Wells on Saturday, September 1. The event will take place at St Thomas’ Church Hall, 75 St Thomas Street, from 10am to noon. It offers the chance to take broken items to be fixed and learn how to repair, save money and avoid the throw-away society while meeting others who love making, mending and recycling pre-loved items. Coffee, tea and cake will be available. If anyone would like to get more involved, call 07729 618368 or email lb.hpc@virgin. net. For more information see www.repaircafe.org or the Sustainable Wells Facebook page.
Danny Unwin pictured at his son Tim’s wedding reminded of him whenever we spot them around the city,” said Becky, Tim and Karen. “He worked really hard in everything he did, the most obvious being his job, and he always ensured things were done properly and respectfully.” They say that he “couldn’t have been prouder” than when he was Mayor of Wells between 2011 and 2012, and that as far as he was concerned, council work transcended politics – “it was about helping people and doing his best for the city”. Danny was an animal lover, and always had dogs. More recently he had three alpacas that he showed at events, including taking them to St Thomas’ Church for a Christmas service in the absence of any camels. “The other thing we will always remember Dad for is his constant tea drinking. He would never get started on anything without having at least two or three cups which could be
frustrating if you just wanted to get on and do. But that was Dad,” said Becky, Tim and Karen. “Dad was charming, loyal and very funny. He built meaningful relationships with those around him and we have been overwhelmed by the support we have received from everyone, and would like to say a big thank you for that. “He was very well respected and we’re very proud of him. He is a huge loss to us as well as the community. Dad loved Wells and those in it.” The current Mayor of Wells, Councillor Celia Wride, remembers first meeting Danny at the election count at the Bath & West Showground in May 2015. She said: “He gave me a hug and warmly welcomed me to Wells City Council. Over the years his advice to me was always sound and he was never afraid to make his point during council debates, often quipping that what was said in the council chamber, stayed in the council chamber. “I will miss him dreadfully – Sarah and I will always remember him as a true friend. Our sincere condolences go to Christine and the entire family.” Councillor Harvey Siggs, Leader of Mendip District Council, said: “Danny was always a character, one who always wanted to be involved in doing things. Warm-hearted and willing. He saw his contribution as beyond party politics and especially over the last couple of years has loved being a part of making things happen.”
Quiz night in aid of charities A CHARITY quiz is being held at Wells Town Hall on September 22. Mayor Celia Wride is organising the quiz in aid of her charities for the year, the Lawrence Centre and St John Ambulance. There will be a bar and nibbles and the question-master will be Dave Clark. The cost is £5 per head and teams can be a maximum of six people. Start time is 7pm for 7.30pm. View every issue online at issuu.com/wellsvoice
Tel: 01749 672033 www.thebritanniainnwells.co.uk
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September 2018
9
n NEWS Free testing for hearing loss WELLS Library has teamed up with national charity Action On Hearing Loss (AOHL) to provide a venue for drop-in, no-appointment, free hearing assessments. AOHL volunteer Richard Hanks said: “It’s great to have this central location as part of our policy of reaching out to people. All you have to do is pop in, and within five minutes, we can tell you with a high degree of certainty whether you have – or do not have – a hearing loss. “Getting a hearing check is the first step towards doing something about a hearing loss. And, more often than not, there really is something that can be done so that you do not face a bleak, long-term future of increasing isolation. And you do not even need to be a member of the library.” Richard continues his library sessions on Wednesday, September 26, from 9.30amnoon.
Twenty five Brownies from three Wells units stayed in Swansea during a pack holiday in August
Brownies enjoy holiday fun BROWNIES from three Wells units joined together for a fun-filled adventure in Swansea as they took part in a ‘Great Brownies Bake Off’ themed pack holiday. Staying at the Swansea Scout and Guide Headquarters, 25 Brownies took part in numerous activities to achieve their pack holiday badge alongside a Cupcake challenge badge. Activities included cooking, sewing and many cupcake themed crafts and they even took part in a team technical challenge as they produced their show pieces to impress the judges. The girls also enjoyed trips to the Swansea lido and Cantref Adventure Park in Brecon,
Brownies took part in a Cupcake challenge and played on the beach collected shells from the beach and toasted marshmallows around a campfire to make s’mores. Brownies and leaders were presented with certificates and badges during a ceremony to mark the end of the holiday, which was a first-time experience for many.
Wills, Trusts, Probate, Power of Attorney Home Visits Available
Judith Derbyshire
jd@purelyprobate.co.uk
01458 850 146
Vodafone plans smaller mast
“Purely Probate were wonderfully thoughtful, efficient and professional in their dealing with the preparation of my Will. Thank you for so clearly explaining all the relevant points to me”
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Wells guiding has many opportunities for girls and adults to participate in similar events. To find out more about the satisfying and rewarding role of adult leadership, or to enrol your daughter, go to https://www. girlguiding.org.uk/informationfor-parents/register-yourdaughter/, or call 01749 673273.
VODAFONE have applied again to put up a mast near the entrance to Waitrose car park in Whiting Way, Wells. They had a planning application for a base station with 15m-high mast turned down by Mendip District Council earlier this year. The new application is for a 12.5m-high mast.
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September 2018
n NEWS
Exercise bikes get residents on the move RESIDENTS at Fletcher House in Wells have been cycling the streets of Cheddar, Taunton, London and even further afield – all from the comfort of the care home’s living room. Two exercise bikes have been set up in front of a TV screen that displays routes for the residents to cycle round. The three-month project with Norwegian company Motitech was launched at a special demonstration day in August. Ron Harrison, aged 95, was one of the first on the bikes alongside his friend Bill Salvage, aged 79, and together they cycled around Cheddar – keeping an eye out for the local pubs. The Somerset Care home also received a visit from ITV correspondent Ben McGrail, who interviewed residents on their first experiences of the project. Supported by Sport England’s Active Ageing Fund, the Motiview project consists of an
Fletcher House resident Ron Harrison and Beverley Meredith, one of the activities co-ordinators, on the exercise bikes adapted exercise bike, combined with a video library of worldwide and familiar routes. Residents can cycle around their old home towns, transport themselves to a popular holiday destination or
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explore somewhere completely new, all while getting exercise and improving their wellbeing. “We’re delighted to be working with Motitech and taking part in this amazing project,” said Nicola Mould, director of customer care and development at Somerset Care. “There was a real buzz of excitement as residents reminisced whilst watching videos of local routes and enjoyed sharing their memories, it was fabulous to see so many of
our residents engaging with the bikes.” The project was first introduced to older people in Bergen, Norway, and has documented benefits in improved mobility, increased appetite, better sleep patterns, improved wellbeing and social interaction. Since its launch, the project has been rolled out to over 300 different care homes, day care centres and hospitals across the world. Somerset Care is the only South West care provider invited to take part and has nine of its care homes involved. Trudy Bower, manager at Fletcher House, said: “We are already seeing some fantastic evidence of how these bikes are enhancing the wellbeing of our residents. We see lots of conversation and hear lots of laughter, it’s wonderful. It’s great to see our residents having so much pleasure from the bikes. “As we go further into the project, we will be looking at ways to fundraise and look for sponsors to help us purchase the equipment so that our residents can continue to use the bikes and enjoy daily exercise and positive wellbeing.”
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Bike buddies Ron Harrison, aged 95, left, and Bill Salvage, aged 79
New dancing season set to begin WELLS and Wookey Scottish Dancers are starting the new dancing season on Friday, September 7. They meet every Friday from 7.30pm to 9.45pm in Wookey Village Hall, behind St Matthew’s Church. Beginners are welcome at the friendly, all-abilities class;
the only thing needed is soft soled shoes. The class fee is £2.50, including a soft drink and biscuit, but the taster session will be free. For more information call 01749 672672 (all day), 01749 677548 (daytime), 01749 672805 (evenings only) or go to wellsscottishdancers.btck.co.uk
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September 2018
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Roy and Eric Mackenzie present the £1,295 cheque to Fletcher House manager Trudy Bower
Kilimanjaro and the Atlas mountains among others for charity. Roy and Eric want the money to be used to finance entertainments for the care home residents in addition to those already provided. “What Roy and Eric have done is absolutely marvellous,” said Fletcher House manager Trudy Bower. “The money they have raised will give huge benefits to our residents.” u Around the Societies, page 34
WELLS City Band are hosting an ambitious day of brass band music on Wells bandstand in September, or in the Bishop’s Barn if wet. The date is Sunday, September 16, when this free entertainment will run from 10am-5pm. Many friends of Wells City Band who play for other bands want to again play on the bandstand in Wells Recreation Ground as it has been a popular venue over many years. “We are grateful to Wells
City Council for supporting this event,” said Jane Hill of Wells City Band. “Please bring your own chairs and a picnic. There will be refreshments available and parking at Palace Fields for £3 all day. “Bands performing will include Beckington Bandits, Glastonbury Brass, Midsomer Norton and Radstock Silver Band, Paulton Concert Band, Stoke Sub Hamden Band, Street Drum and Trumpet Corps and, of course, Wells City Band.”
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A MOUNTAIN climb will bring more entertainments to residents of a Wells care home. Eighty-year-old Roy Mackenzie and his son Eric conquered the highest peak of Mount Snowdon to raise money for Fletcher House in Glastonbury Road. Roy said the day they presented the cheque for £1,295 was also his 52nd wedding anniversary and staff at the home made a cake. “Climbing is something of a hobby for me,” said Roy, from Wells, who has scaled
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September 2018
n NEWS
Family raising funds so Amelia can have ‘life-changing’ vest THE family of seven-year-old Amelia McKenna are fundraising for something that could transform her life. Amelia was diagnosed with cystic fibrosis when she was just 19 days old and has been admitted to hospital 15 times since then. She now has a port fitted in her chest so that antibiotics can be administered without the need for a cannula. She has to take 40 tablets, uses nebulisers and has up to four physiotherapy sessions every day of the year to try to stay healthy. Each morning Amelia, a pupil at Stoberry Park School in Wells, has percussion therapy during which family members – usually
mum Zoe – press their hands against Amelia’s chest, back and sides for 30 minutes to help prevent her lungs and digestive system from being clogged with mucus. “It means she has to get up an hour earlier than her brother and sister and just lie there while we do it,” said Zoe, who has begun fundraising for a physiotherapy vest that she says could be lifechanging. “It’s a bit like a life jacket that does the vibrations for her,” said Zoe. “It would be massive for her. It would mean she’s not pinned down having physiotherapy, she could sit up and watch the telly, and it will allow her to use one Amelia McKenna, right, with her mum Zoe, sister Caris and grandmother Ann MacDonald at the fun and games day at The Square
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of her nebulisers at the same time. It would give her a bit more independence.” Physiotherapy vests are not available on the NHS. A new one costs £7,000, and a reconditioned one – which is what Zoe is aiming for – costs about half that. A fun and games day in August at The Square soft play centre on Priory Road, with facepainting, a tombola, a raffle, sweets for sale and hook a duck, helped raise more money towards the target. A mufti day at the Blue
School, where Amelia’s brother Jacob is a pupil, had already brought in £1,300, and other fundraising events have made another £1,000. Zoe will be fundraising again at the Wells rugby club fun day on September 1 (noon onwards). There is no known cure for cystic fibrosis, and people with it have a shorter than average life expectancy. “It’s changed our outlook. We know tomorrow might never come,” said Zoe. “We try to give more to Amelia to make the memories.”
Ride raises £1k
Litter clean up
MENDIP District Council Chief Executive, Stuart Brown, has raised more than £1,000 for charity following a 100-mile cycle ride. Stuart, together with his son Ben, took on the Ride London to Surrey event at the end of July and in doing so they have raised over £1,000 to be shared between Alzheimer’s Society and Mendip’s Charity of the Year, Mendip YMCA.
MAYOR of Wells Celia Wride is organising another litter pick to keep the city’s streets spick and span. It will take place on August 31, September 1 and September 2. As before, equipment for anyone who wants to take part can be collected from the Town Hall from 8.30am each day, and the drop sites for the bags of rubbish will remain the same.
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September 2018
13
n NEWS
Competitions to get young thinking about city’s future TWO new competitions are encouraging young people to get involved in designing the Wells in which they want to live. They have been launched by Wake Up Wells, the group capturing views about how the city should develop, and comprise: n Writing Competition: Entries can be in essay, short story or poetry format. n Art Competition: Entries can be any medium – painting, sculpture, drawing, photography, installation, performance or video. There are three age groups for each competition: school Years 7, 8 and 9; Years 10 and 11; and Years 12 and 13. The theme is ‘Wells & Me’. Judges will be looking for original and creative interpretations which demonstrate understanding of the issues of living in Wells and that also generate potential solutions. Entrants should think about the question “How would you like Wells to be?” A poem must not exceed 20 lines in length and an essay or short story must not exceed 500 words in length. For the art competition, work
should not exceed 2m in any dimension when framed. Films must not be longer than five minutes. There will be cash prizes or equivalent for the winners and runners up in each age group in both competitions who will also be featured in the local press. Winning entries will also be on display at Wells Town Hall and at a community event at Wells Cathedral in January 2019. Entries must be the entrant’s own work, not previously published/ shown; entries may be used by Wake Up Wells for publicity or other purposes; the judges’ decision is final; entries can come from any young person who either goes to school in Wells or is resident in Wells; and there is a limit of three entries per person. The deadline for entries has been extended until September 30. Entries should be emailed to wakeupwells.competitions@ gmail.com, with the entrant’s full name, age and school. Videos should be uploaded to YouTube and the video URL copied to the email address. Art/sculpture entries must be photographed and then submitted to the email address.
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Past president of Wells Rotary Club, Richard Leworthy, is seen here presenting a new defibrillator to the Mayor of Wells, Councillor Celia Wride. The money was raised by Wells Rotary Club holding a fun horse race evening and from cash thrown into the Rotary Wishing Well in the Market Place conduit. Wells City Council has now taken over the management of the defibrillator, which is located on the wall outside the bus station ticket office, Princes Street, Wells. Other defibrillators are located at: Wells Town Hall, Market Place, Wells BA5 2RB; Wells Fire Station, Burcott Road, Wells BA5 2DF; Tincknell’s, Cathedral View Offices, Wookey Hole Road, Wells BA5 2BT; The Swan Hotel, Sadler Street, Wells BA5 2RX.
First fundraising for defibrillator THE group working towards obtaining a defibrillator for East Wells have decided to begin the fundraising over the next few months. The first event will be a Coffee and Cakes morning at St Thomas’s Church Hall on Saturday, September 29, between
10am and noon. After this, it is hoped that the various groups that use the Church Hall will also undertake some fundraising of their own. For further information, contact Charlie Sutton on charlie@thesuttonshouse.co.uk or 01749 939879.
Sale of paintings benefits wildlife THE sale of paintings by the late Peter Coate, held at Wells & Mendip Museum in May and June, was extremely successful. The sum of £3,000 was sent to Somerset Wildlife Trust, while the museum also benefitted
from the sales. Peter’s family has thanked all those who visited and contributed. If anyone missed this opportunity, there is still a small selection of good works available. Ring Pamela on 01749 675504.
Email: news@wellsvoice.co.uk
wellsvoice n NEWS
14
n ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE
September 2018
Care centre helping people keep their independence IF you want to remain mobile and independent, or improve your wellbeing, then Oakville Care Centre can help. The shop at 32 St Cuthbert Street, Wells, is packed with quality mobility aids and independent living aids, as well as a wide range of health and wellbeing products, with more than 700 products available to buy online. The range of stock includes daily living aids such as grab rails, key safes and handirachers; incontinence products; arthritic and joint supports; distress alert systems; Cosyfeet wide fitting shoes and HJ Hall extra wide socks; and a natural health and skincare range including immune boosters and organic shower gels. Oakville Care was set up in Frome in 1990 by Robert and Sue Lymer as a domiciliary care service catering for the elderly in
and around Mendip, with the site in Wells opening four years ago. Sons Rob and Paul both work for the company, and Rob said: “We’re passionate about helping people stay as independent as they can whilst in their own home, so we pride ourselves on our exceptional level of service, whether customers shop in store or online.” The website helps the company reach people across the UK. Delivery is available across the country from as little as £1, capped at a maximum price of £7.99. To see the full range of products that are offered, visit www.oakvillecarecentre.co.uk For further information or to discuss your individual needs with an experienced member of staff, call the Wells store on 01749 670765 or email customerservices@ oakvillecarecentre.co.uk
DO YOU WANT TO STAY ACTIVE AND INDEPENDENT?
Wells Almshouses residents with Heads Up’s gardeners and co-ordinator Lee Anne Bone on the right
Cake baked to thank gardeners THE gardens of the Wells Almshouses are known for their beauty and have been benefiting this summer from the work of skilled volunteers. They come from the Heads Up mental health charity at South Horrington every fortnight to tend the greenery and flowers. To show their appreciation the residents presented the volunteers with a large homemade cake. If anyone would like to see these charming houses and walk around the beautiful gardens, they will be open to the public on
Saturday, September 8, which is Heritage Open Day, from 11am to 4pm. There are two main sites for the 32 flats and cottages that make up the almshouses. Llewellyn’s Almshouses are on Priest Row and the Bubwith site can be accessed by walking through the grounds of St Cuthbert’s Church to the back of the churchyard, or through the chapel door on Chamberlain Street. Some of them date from the 15th century. u Heritage Open Days, page 26
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One of Abbeyfield’s residents, Pat McBryde, celebrated her 100th birthday on July 24. Pat has been a resident at Abbeyfield house at New Street, Wells, for the last four years, and following a lunch with her family, celebrated in style with a beautiful birthday cake and bouquet of flowers. A number of Pat’s family had travelled far and wide to join her for the day. Her son had come down from Scotland for the event and her grandson had flown in from Geneva. The staff at Abbeyfield laid on a birthday tea for friends and family and toasted Pat with glasses of Pimms and champagne.
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wellsvoice
September 2018
n NEWS Heat improves growers’ odds THE ‘worst growing season ever’ has sharpened interest in Wookey Hole Caves’ pumpkin competition – leaving a smaller number of diehard growers with a greater chance of winning the resort’s £1,000 prize for the heaviest specimen. Miranda Litchfield of Wookey Hole Caves said blisteringly hot weather had destroyed many growers’ efforts, improving the odds for the lucky few who had managed to adequately water
their pumpkins through the longest drought since 1976. She said: “A record-breaking pumpkin requires an enormous amount of water. This has been the worst growing season ever and it’s dealt our growers a serious blow. While the skies finally opened the rain has come too late for many growers.” Miranda said it was probably too late to start growing another batch from scratch, so any pumpkin which had made it through the drought was a potential prize winner. There is £1,000 to be won for the heaviest pumpkin grown by Saturday, October 24.
15
Crowds get taste of Sikh culture TURBANS were tied, drums played and hot food served up for free at the Meet the Sikhs day at The Bishop’s Palace on August 18. Large crowds gathered to enjoy an afternoon of Sikh culture organised by Wells Rotary and Khalsa Aid, which also included traditional dance and information about Sikhi and Rotary projects. Khalsa Aid supports disaster victims in the UK and abroad.
Sharon Haigh of Wells Rotary Club with Dr Bhupinder Singh Sacha, who tied her turban
Day focusing on mental health at work THE growing challenge of tackling mental health in the workplace will be addressed at a Wells symposium for organisations across the South West. The Employers’ Symposium, to be held on September 15 at Cedars Hall, will bring together businesses, mental health experts and representatives of the charity Mind. The morning conference will share best practice on reducing risks, supporting employees and mitigating metal health issues. “With almost one-third of fit notes issued as a result of mental health conditions, the Employers’ Symposium is relevant for all employers, as well as professionals involved in community mental health services,” said organiser Richard Lowe, managing director of Hewlett Rand.
Proceeds from the event will benefit local Mind charities. The mental health charity will be represented by both local and national speakers. “We are very fortunate to have such a breadth of specialist speakers for the symposium. They include Ben Leatham from national Mind, who will be updating the delegates on the Heads Together campaign. It’s a project for improving mental health in the workplace and launches this autumn,” said David Fields of South Somerset Mind. Attendees will also hear from Somerset County Council and law firm Burges Salmon on how they support mental health in their organisations and work with Bristol Mind. Confirmed speakers include: Ben Leatham, Mind; David Fields, South Somerset Mind;
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Hannah Roper, Bath Mind; Matt Jackson, Somerset County Council; Peter Thomas, PDT Safety Ltd; Adrian Poole, Porter Dodson Solicitors; Hannah Braye, Probiotics International Ltd (Protexin). The Employers’ Symposium will be held on the same day as Music for the Mind – an evening concert to raise funds and awareness for local Mind charities. Taking place in Wells in the same venue as the symposium, Music for the Mind will feature the uplifting and soulful voices of Vocal Works Gospel Choir. Guest performers include the R&B singer and YouTube sensation Georgia Box, as well as the stars of a West End musical on the theme of mental health. Robert S J Lucas and Sherwood Alexander will perform songs from This Is John,
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September 2018
n NEWS
Sparkling for the TV cameras Wells resident Tina Blackwill explains how her love of pom pom dancing has given her a starring role on TV BACK in March of this year I was lying in bed suffering with pneumonia watching BBC Inside Out West, and at the end presenter Seb Choudhury asked for viewers to contact them if they had any stories that may be of interest. I immediately messaged Seb telling him all about my wonderful pom pom dance classes. Before I knew it I was chatting to a producer about all the things I do. I think she found my story interesting as I’d gone from making wedding cakes to teaching pom pom dance classes. I think she loved that I also dabble in a bit of baton twirling here and there, and that I’m super bubbly and lots of fun. The producer, Jenny Walmsley, was keen to know what my clients get from my classes. It’s been proven that regular exercise can help in reducing the symptoms of dementia. My classes help with movement, co-ordination, memory, staying supple and fitness. They are very uplifting as I use extremely upbeat music, wear glitter on my face and use bright pink sparkly pom poms. They love it. The first part of the filming featured my regular class at Torrwood Care Centre in Wells; as usual all of the residents were amazing and really enjoyed the filming. The BBC had then set me a challenge. They had arranged for me to take a new class at the Happy Days cafe for
Tina Blackwill with Seb Choudhury people with dementia and their carers in Bristol. My challenge was to teach them a routine that could then be performed at The Galleries shopping centre in Bristol three days later. The day came for me to perform. It was the fifth birthday party of Bristol Dementia Action Alliance which campaigns to make the city dementia friendly. There were also lots of other groups there who joined in. Bristol actor Joe Sims from Broadchurch was there to introduce the whole event and he then helped me with my performance, which ended with him picking me up and spinning me round. We filmed in
different parts of The Galleries starting with me dancing on the escalators... which of course I loved. I enjoyed every single minute of the filming process and adore being in front of the camera. I feel so honoured to do the job I do and love that I make people smile every day. n The film featuring Tina and her pom poms is due to be shown on BBC Inside Out West on Monday, September 10, at 7.30pm on BBC One in the West. It will be available afterwards for 30 days on the BBC iPlayer. Tina will also be on Steve Yabsley’s Radio Bristol show on Monday, September 3, at 12.30pm.
Exercise and chance to chat on walk for good cause ALL ages will be welcome at a Dementia Walk starting at The Bishop’s Palace in Wells on Sunday, September 30. Registration opens at 9.30am with the walkers setting off at 10am on a choice of a gentle three-mile route or a more demanding five-mile course. Entry costs £10 and all profits will go to the Wells Dementia Action Alliance. The event is being organised by Bluebird Care, which has
offices in Wells, Street and Frome, with help from Tom Ronan who launched these annual fundraising walks two years ago. “We want to continue the great work of the Wells Dementia Action Alliance,” said Bluebird’s manager Jenny Atkins. “They support so many people.” The Swan Hotel in Sadler Street will provide tea and coffee for £1, with cakes and biscuits
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included to revive the walkers on their return. “The Dementia Walk is great exercise and also a great chance to chat with others about this important issue while raising money for a fantastic local dementia charity,” said Tom, “and please feel free to bring your dog on the walk too.” For more information, email wellsdaawalk@btinternet.com, or phone Bluebird Care on 01373 463838.
Showcase of landscape and still life pictures THE Andelli Art gallery at South Horrington will be showcasing Richard Allen’s landscape and still life paintings produced over the last two years, complemented by 20th century works in the same genre. Richard attended Central Saint Martins College as a Fine Art (Painting) Undergraduate, studying illustration at Masters level. He has worked as an illustrator winning several international accolades (AOI Golds, SI LA gold, SI NY silver, 3×3, Commarts), working with many well-known clients including the New Yorker, The NY Times, Esquire, and most quality UK and US newspapers and magazines. In May 2017 he won the prestigious V&A Illustration prize, winning the Editorial Illustration award and the Moira Gemmill Memorial prize for Illustrator of the Year.
A Richard Allen landscape Since his return to painting in 2012, Richard won the Sky Arts Landscape Artist of the Year in 2016. His first solo show took place place at Petworth House, West Sussex, in 2017, and other exhibitions followed at the Bohun Gallery, Twenty Twenty Gallery and Thompson’s Gallery. He has also undertaken numerous private commissions. n Richard Allen, September 8-30, Andelli Art, Mendip House, Upper Breach, South Horrington, Wells. Open Wednesday–Sunday, 10am– 5pm.
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wellsvoice
September 2018
17
n EDUCATION AND TRAINING
Exceptional A-level outcomes at Blue STUDENTS at The Blue School are celebrating an outstanding set of A-level outcomes as a consequence of this year’s results. Students at all levels achieved exceptionally well. Nearly half of all grades were at the highest A* or A grade, a figure that is likely to be nearly double the national achievement rate. Around 90 per cent of entries were achieved at grades A*-C, an unprecedented figure that demonstrates the depth of success across the school. With around 500 exam entries at the largest school sixth form in Somerset, this translates to a huge number of students who have given themselves the best opportunity for the future. Headteacher Mark Woodlock said: “As a school, we are absolutely delighted with the
A-level results day at The Blue superb successes achieved by the students. These are an exceptional set of results that illustrate the talent that the students possess, the excellence Continued on page 18
Apprenticeships success story A LOCAL adult education and apprenticeships provider is bucking the national decline in apprenticeship starts by recording a record high in 2017/18. Somerset Skills & Learning, which has a centre in Portway, Wells, has seen a 13 per cent increase in apprenticeship uptake between 15/16 and 17/18 despite a national downturn. Somerset Skills & Learning also showed a 4 per cent increase year on year from 16/17 in new starts despite a 36 per cent decrease which has been cited nationally. The organisation’s employer engagement manager, Dave West, attributes the success to their focused sector approach. “We specialise in apprenticeships for childcare, supporting teaching in schools, social care and business administration,” he said. “These are all growth areas in Somerset and because we have a deep understanding of
n MESSAGE FROM THE HEADTEACHER
Our school is very special
I
of what children will n September 2017 I achieve academically. took over as acting We believe that learning headteacher and in has no limits. February this year I was Our school is pleased and proud to be very special and the appointed permanent relationships we develop headteacher at this with our children and wonderful school. At their families enables St Cuthbert’s Academy us to create a nurturing, Infants and Pre-School caring and supportive we are a warm, friendly, atmosphere where all caring school that puts children flourish and children at the heart of develop. all we do. We welcome St Cuthbert’s Prechildren from 2 to 7 St Cuthbert’s School became part of St years of age. In October Academy Cuthbert’s Infant School 2017 we were visited by on 1st February 2017 Osfted and were pleased after being voluntary committee that we continued to be rated as run as a registered charity since ‘Good’. Our KS1 results are above 1965. Our Pre-School moved the national average and we will into its current classrooms at the continue to keep them there. heart of the school in September The staff are passionate and 2016. We welcome children believe anything is possible. from all local areas. As the PreThey strive for the children to school is part of the Academy become lifelong learners who the children can make a smooth are enthusiastic and proud of transition and settle easily into everything they do. They provide reception classes. children with the best possible We hope you share our belief opportunities and the right that St Cuthbert’s Academy balance between a school that Infants and Pre-School has is fun, creative and play based something special to offer. with having high expectations
Rated ‘Good’ by Ofsted. Oct 2017
the sectors and are known for our excellence in delivering the related training and qualifications, we continue to grow. “Local employers benefit from our knowledge and appreciate that we hone our delivery to some core areas, rather than try to be all things to all people.” He also attributed their success to having learning centres across Somerset, rather than in one fixed location, allowing apprentices to reach their classes more easily without long travel times, making the education element of an apprenticeship less problematic. “We consistently receive feedback from our students that they enjoy learning with us and over 90 per cent would recommend us for apprenticeships and adult education to their friends and family, this could also be a factor in our great apprenticeship figures,” he said.
St Cuthbert’s C of E Academy St Cuthbert’s C of E&Academy Pre-School Infants Infants & Pre-School Keward Walk Keward Walk Wells, Somerset Wells, Somerset BA5 1TZ BA5 1TZ www.stcuthbertsinfantswells.co.uk www.stcuthbertsinfantswells.co.uk School Office 01749 672591 School Office 01749 672591 Pre-School Office 01749 675995 Pre-School Office 01749 675995 School E sch.395@educ.somerset.gov.uk School E sch.395@educ.somerset.gov.uk
Sheryl Cooper
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St Cuthbert’s Academy welcomes children from 2 to 7 years.
Open Day October 9th 5pm—6pm. St Cuthbert’s Academy welcomes you to come and have a look around our amazing school and pre‐school You don’t have to wait un�l the open day to visit us, you are welcome to come and visit us at a �me during the day that suits you. Our Pre‐school accepts children from ages 2 to 4 years from all local areas. We are a very friendly and nurturing pre‐school, offering an enriched and exci�ng learning environment. As we are one school the children can make a smooth transi�on from Pre‐school and se�le easily into the recep�on classes. The Pre‐school also have use of the Infant school’s facili�es as well as a large outdoor space and a bright conservatory area.
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18
n EDUCATION
Parents and community thanked for support From page 17 of the teaching they have experienced and the strength of the relationships that have been built within the school. “We thank parents and the local community for the support they have given these students during their time at school. We believe that our community should be justifiably proud of its students and of the school that serves Wells and the surrounding area.” The vast majority of students have achieved their first choice university place or are able to embark upon their chosen career path. These include numerous places at the strongest universities across the country, including Oxford and Cambridge, and placements with some of the biggest employers, such as Dyson. Bridget Cox, assistant
Happy Blue School students headteacher responsible for the Sixth Form, said: “I am extremely proud of the achievements of all of our students. Behind these figures lies a significant amount of hard work and dedication. We continue to serve our students by providing them with the best opportunity for the next steps in their education and careers, and the support to be positive role models for the future.”
September 2018
Impressive results STUDENTS at Wells Cathedral School achieved a robust set of A-level results on August 16 with a pass rate of 99 per cent; 40 per cent were awarded the top two grades, compared with a national average figure of 26 per cent. Twenty per cent of pupils achieved three or more A or A* grades or better, with four students gaining more than three A* grades: congratulations to Samuel Bartram from Long Ashton who gained four A* grades, as well as to Julian Chan and Elias Richards from Kilmersdon who gained three A*s and one A grade apiece, and to Samuel Sutherland who gained three A*s and two B grades. Samuel Sutherland will go on to study mathematics at Warwick. Elias will study the groundbreaking new Arts and Sciences course at University College, London, and pianist Julian has the opportunity to
continue with his musical studies at university or at the Royal Academy of Music or the Royal College of Music where he holds scholarships. Samuel Bartram will study medicine at Imperial College, London, where he has been awarded the prestigious President’s Award scholarship, and will continue with his violin studies at the Royal College of Music. Sam will be joined by two other Wells students studying medicine in London: Constance McDonnell who will be at King’s College, and Kit Thompson from Oakhill, who will be at University College. The two Wells students who needed them have gained the grades required to continue with their academic studies at Oxford: Harry Hastilow from Wells will be reading English at New College; whilst Marianne Sutton from Draycott will be reading music at St Anne’s College.
Students up to challenge Praise for achievements GCSE students at The Blue School have followed in the footsteps of their A-level counterparts and produced an excellent set of results this year. It is the first time that the majority of subjects have been assessed on the new 9 to 1 scale and the students have proved up to the challenges of this new system. Fifteen per cent of all entries were at the new 9 or 8 grade, equivalent to an A* under the old system. In addition, just under a third of all entries achieved a grade 7 or above, equivalent to an old A grade. Strong achievement in the core subjects have been matched by excellent outcomes in other subject areas. Balancing the needs and success of all students across the academic, creative and practical subjects remains at the heart of The Blue School’s philosophy. Headteacher, Mark Woodlock, said: “We are very pleased that so many students have fully demonstrated their potential by producing such excellent GCSE grades. “These students faced the uncertainty of a new system,
Mark Woodlock says students have coped well with a new system with new and different examinations, and have responded in the best way possible. “Our staff have equally faced this uncertainty and we are delighted that the work they have put in to preparing and supporting students has been demonstrated in the strength of these results. “As with our A-level results, we are very grateful for the support that we have received from parents and the local community. We believe that our community should be justifiably proud of the high performing school that serves this area and of its students that represent us so well.”
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PUPILS at Wells Cathedral School celebrated impressive GCSE results on August 23, the first year where the majority of subjects have been assessed against the newly implemented and more rigorous, reformed GCSE examination grades. At Wells, 50 per cent of the subjects examined were assessed with the new system. Five Wells students achieved eight or more 9s or A* grades; nearly one third of Wells students achieved six or more grade 9s and 8s, or their A* equivalent; and almost half the grades awarded were the top 9-7 grades. The school achieved a 100 per cent pass rate. Wells achieved success across a variety of subjects, with particularly strong results in the sciences and mathematics. In biology, chemistry and physics, one third of the cohort achieved grade 9s, with well over three quarters achieving grades 9-7 in each subject. In mathematics nearly half the cohort gained 9s or A* equivalent – many of whom took the examination a year or six months early. Forty two per cent of those who took
Matthew Whitehead was just one of many pupils who did well music – more than half the year group – achieved the highest possible grade, 9. Dr Andy Kemp, Head of the Senior School, said: “I’m incredibly proud of the achievements of all the students whether their results were littered with A* and 9 grades or hard fought B and 5 grades, all alongside a broad and exciting range of co-curricular activities and achievements. They have given themselves a brilliant foundation for further studies.” Alastair Tighe, headmaster from the start of September, said: “All pupils can be proud of their achievement, and I offer them my warmest congratulations.”
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wellsvoice
September 2018
19
n EDUCATION
for students at Wells Cathedral School
Principal Elizabeth Cairncross and head Dr Andrew Kemp with a number of local A-level students on results day More than 50 per cent of this Wells cohort specialised in music during their sixth form years, and have successfully juggled academic work with intensive music programmes and long hours of practice.
Wells’ results have been good across a wide variety of subjects this year, with exceptional results in geography, where 43 per cent achieved A*s, and photography, where 63 per cent achieved A*s. In contrast to the
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national downward trend of students no longer having access to courses in modern foreign languages, 75 per cent of Wells students taking French and German gained the top grades, whilst in both mathematics and
religious studies, 50 per cent gained A* or A grades. Principal Elizabeth Cairncross said: “As the whole national school sector is recognising that exam grades are only part of the result of a good education, I am delighted that, as I leave, I know that so many of our students are moving to exciting ‘fresh woods and pastures new’ with the right grades, and, even more importantly, with curiosity, tenacity, reflectiveness, kindness and courage. “The variety of their next areas of study is remarkable and a tribute to them, their innovation and energy, and the support of their families. “It is also a tribute to all the staff who have worked with them, taught them, looked after them and helped them in so many ways. “I know that Alastair Tighe is pleased to be building on this foundation.”
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wellsvoice
20
September 2018
n NEWS
Speakers just what the doctor ordered OVER the last 26 years, the Wells Festival of Literature has developed a great reputation among authors for their enthusiastic audiences, the great welcome they receive and, indeed, the treasure that is England’s smallest city. The medical profession has held audiences captivated over the last two years with brain surgeon Henry Marsh and heart surgeon Stephen Westaby telling of the highs and lows in the NHS. Adam Kay fills the space this year with his hilarious true-life stories of a doctor turned comic; his book has been at the top of the best sellers’ lists for months. Prof Ed Bullmore’s groundbreaking research has informed his book The Inflamed Mind: a radical new approach to depression, and, morphing
into science; Dr Hannah Fry, eminent mathematician and BBC presenter, will explain how algorithms play an everincreasing role in important decisions on healthcare, transport, finance and security; and neuropsychologist Paul Broks will talk about the world of the bereaved and how the journey through grief can also be one of philosophy, consciousness, humanity and magical thinking. Tickets for the 2018 festival, which runs from October 1927, are now on sale online via wellsfestivalofliterature.org.uk; via the Cedars Hall box office phone line: 01749 834483 (weekdays 9.30am-12.30pm) and in person from the box office at Cedars House, The Liberty (weekdays 9.30am-12.30pm).
Ryan Hughes is gearing up for a charity cycle ride fundraiser
Dentist set for 500-mile bike ride WELLS dentist Ryan Hughes is taking part in a 500-mile charity bike ride in September. Ryan, who works at Priory Dental in Priory Road, will join implant dentists from across the country cycling from Lake Garda in northern Italy to Rome in the south to raise money for the Mouth Cancer Foundation. About 50 dentists are taking
part in this year’s five-day Straumann Charity Bike Ride, from September 19-23. “I would very much like to thank everyone who has supported me by donating at the practice,” said Ryan. “If anyone would like to make a donation they can do so via uk.virginmoneygiving.com/ mouthcancer.”
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Callum Willcox with his Battle of Amiens diorama
Visitors praise Railwells exhibition HUNDREDS of people attended the Railwells model railway exhibition held in Wells Town Hall on August 11 and 12. Appropriately for a building used as the Warleggan Bank in BBC TV series Poldark, the first two layouts visitors encountered were Cornish. “We have been very pleased with the turnout, and the comments we have had have been exceptional,” said organiser Chris Challis of Wells Railway Fraternity, which is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year. “Some people who come regularly say it is the best exhibition they have ever been to.
The standard is extremely high.” Highlights included a layout by Callum Willcox set during the Battle of Amiens that began on August 8, 1918, and ultimately led to the end of the First World War. There was also a reconstruction by Stefan Owen of 1949 West Country Class locomotive 34092 City of Wells, along with the coffee table with Wells crest presented to Mayor Ernald de Mosley Kippax at the naming ceremony. The next Wells Railway Fraternity meeting will take place at Wells Town Hall on September 11 at 7.30pm.
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wellsvoice
September 2018
21
n NEWS
Exhibition will be international event VISITORS to this year’s Wells Arts Contemporary (WAC) exhibition at The Bishop’s Palace will be able to see contemporary visual art from places as diverse as Australia, Azerbaijan, India, Italy, Korea, Japan and the United States. The work of 11 Somerset artists can also be seen when the 123 shortlisted works go on display from October 8-22. “It is particularly exciting to hold this exhibition in such an historical setting,” said new WAC chairman Paddy O’Hagan. “The juxtaposition works beautifully, and of course it is a magnificent and spacious venue ideally suited to the display of the large-scale two- and threedimensional works, as well as smaller, more intimate pieces.”
This year saw the highest number of entries to date: a total of 1,397 pieces from 26 different countries. To be selected for the exhibition every piece of work submitted will have been assessed by a panel of highly respected judges. There are a wide range of cash, exhibition and professional development prizes available. Highlights include a unique opportunity for four artists to exhibit in a central London gallery, while the nationally regarded WAC president, Professor Anita Taylor, will select work for a smaller exhibition to go on tour to the Gainsborough Hotel in Bath. There are several other art events taking place in Wells during October to complement
Sculpture trail to take visitors on tour of ten striking pieces of art A STUNNING new sculpture trail opens at The Bishop’s Palace in September. Curated by Gallery Pangolin – one of the few galleries specialising in sculpture in the country – the sculpture trail, first reported in July’s Wells Voice, will be made up of ten striking pieces of art which will be located throughout the Palace’s inner gardens. Human Nature will comprise diverse sculptures from a disparate group of sculptors, including pieces by Lynn Chadwick, one of the giants of 20th century sculpture; Jon Buck, RWA and a Fellow of the Royal Society of British Sculptors; William Tucker, who was awarded the International Sculpture Center’s Lifetime Achievement Award in 2010; Ralph Brown, RA; Anthony Abrahams and Terence Coventry. Among the sculptures on show will be some large and striking pieces of more than two metres in height. “Gallery Pangolin have curated a wonderful exhibition, designed to enhance and reflect
On the shortlist: Ruth by Peter Lazare of Exmoor, above, and Somerset artist Candace Bahouth’s mosaic mirrored ankle-high Converse sneaker, above left
WAC. A sculpture trail in the gardens of The Bishop’s Palace has been curated by leading fine art foundry Gallery Pangolin. An exhibition of work from celebrated sculptor Eleanor Bartlett will be in Wells Cathedral along with a unique ‘sound sculpture’ commissioned by WAC. The Somerset Guild of Craftsmen will have some key contemporary craft on display in the Wells & Mendip Museum, while art galleries including Andelli Art and Heritage Courtyard will be holding new exhibitions. All will be plotted on an Art Map available throughout the city or online at www. wellsartcontemporary.co.uk. “This is a really exciting time for WAC,” said Paddy. “Everyone assumes that contemporary art is something for the big cities but we’re proving rural, non-metropolitan areas can offer just as much in terms of culture and the arts.”
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The sculpture trail at The Bishop’s Palace opens on September 15 the beauty of this unique setting,” said Freddie LangdonDaly, public events co-ordinator at the Palace. The sculpture trail is designed to appeal to all ages, and separate printed trails for adults and children will be available to enhance the experience. The exhibition will be open daily from September 15 to November 25, unless there is a special event taking place, and is included in standard admission.
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wellsvoice
22
September 2018
n NEWS
‘Very humbling and emotional experience’ Aaron Cooper-Collett describes what it was like to take part in the pilgrimage of Remembrance as part of First World War centenary commemorations THE Royal British Legion event, known as Great Pilgrimage 90 (GP90), marked 90 years since the original Royal British Legion Pilgrimage in 1928, which saw 11,000 First World War veterans and war widows visit the battlefields of the Somme in France and Ypres in Belgium, a decade after the conflict ended. Some 1,100 standard bearers and 1,100 wreath layers marched two miles to the Menin Gate for a service of commemoration including readings from the UK’s Ambassador to Belgium and the Archbishop of York, with hundreds of wreaths being laid containing messages written by school children from across the UK. Myself, LCpl Aaron CooperCollett, and Tim Bikerdike were chosen to represent Wells RBL at GP90. We started the week off by visiting Passchendaele in Belgium which is the largest war graves cemetery in the world. Belgium, although beautiful, is also very heart-wrenching, these guys weren’t just fighting a war, they were fighting to survive, truly amazing and unbelievable things happened here. Tuesday saw us at the starting point of the Somme in France, these poor Devon lads didn’t get a chance to fight, they were being slaughtered as they tried to get out of the trenches. We saw the last remaining tree from the original woods, it took four days to fight through here, it was a major assault by the South African army with two Welsh VC recipients. We visited Vimy Ridge, with mines, artillery craters and trenches, the ground will never heal and still rumbles to this day. It was a tough place to fully absorb. Wednesday, August 8, saw us bright and early on the road to the Menin Gate where I laid the wreath from Wells with Tim, who carried the standard. What an absolute honour and privilege to be representing the RBL, my home city and the Army Air Corps, it was a very humbling and emotional experience.
A list of Wells Remembers events can be seen on the Wells City Council website. Anyone doing anything small or large can add to it by emailing reception@wells.gov.uk
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Above, Tim Bickerdike and Aaron Aaron Cooper-Collett in Wells Market Place where the wreath was blessed by the Rev Sam Denyer before they set off on the Great Pilgrimage 90; left, from top to bottom, hundreds of Royal British Legion standards seen at the Menin Gate Memorial; wreaths laid in remembrance of those who lost their lives; and the wreaths on display outside, including the one from Wells, below
The words on the wreath read: Husbands, brothers, fathers, sons Voices lost to the sounds of guns. Their sacrifice a taste of Hell Heroes all, in Heaven now dwell. We remember them, they have not died For in our hearts they live with pride. Memories hold, as life has taught Lest we forget those names who fought.
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wellsvoice
September 2018
23
n NEWS
Sixth celebration of fabulous food THE free, family-friendly Wells Food Festival is returning for the sixth year running in October, when more than 15,000 visitors are expected to enjoy a foodie day out. “As always, the festival is a celebration of Somerset’s fantastic food. And this year we have included some exciting new areas to explore,” said organiser Jon Abbott. The event takes place on Sunday, October 14, from 10.30am to 4.30pm. More than 150 producers and street food sellers will be in the Artisan Market, showcasing the extensive range of fine food and produce that comes from the region. Stalls will stretch from the Market Place, the Town Hall, into the grounds of The Bishop’s Palace, along the Moat, into the Recreation Ground and the Bishop’s Barn. There’s a journey of food
Bumble’s Preserves won Best Stall in Show in 2017
discovery in the Charlie Bigham’s Discovery Zone, located by the Bishop’s Barn. Three interactive areas will explore how the demand for food is impacting farming and the landscape, what we might be eating in the future and ideas to combat waste. For the first time, The Royal Bath & West of England Society will have a Farmyard at the festival, promising to bring the countryside to the city, complete with sheep, chickens, piglets and a tractor. Noah’s Ark Pre School will also help keep younger ones entertained by encouraging children to get cooking. Meanwhile, children and adults alike can roll up their sleeves in the Recreation Ground and join in an attempt at a Guinness Book of Records for making the largest recorded dish of sauerkraut. For those keen to dig a little deeper, a ‘Soapbox’ will play host to a variety of speakers throughout the day in the Discovery Zone whilst a debate will take place at 11am in the Town Hall, addressing the topic: It’s Time We Talked About Local Food. A panel of speakers will briefly address the question from four different points of view – farming, the business world, producers and the landscape, after which the debate will be thrown open to the public.
Rare chance to see inside studios NOW the largest event in Somerset for visual artists and makers, Somerset Open Studios draws Art Weeks back to its roots, focussing on artists in their working environment. Between September 15 and 30, artists will demonstrate how they make their work; their process, practice and inspiration. The event allows a rare opportunity to see inside artists’ studios, temporary working spaces and other locations to find out what goes on behind the scenes. The 2018 Open Studios Guide is available in various outlets including libraries, museums, galleries and cafes. To receive a
copy by post email artweeks@ somersetartworks.org.uk, or browse an online version at somersetartworks.org.uk. Artists and studios taking part in the Wells area include: Somerset Guild of Craftsmen, Broad Street, Wells; Derek Nice Studio, Portway, Wells; Jill Dunmore, Milton Lane, Wells; Fiona Hingston, The Cheeseyard, West Horrington; Wendy Lovegrove, Andelli Art, Upper Breach, South Horrington; Kate Blake Design and Milly’O, Mill Lane, Coxley; Susan Gradwell, Somerleaze, Wookey; Orchard Vale Trust, Doctors Hill, Wookey; Hill Farm Studio, Castle Lane, Wookey.
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Wells Labour Party members on the march through Tolpuddle
Group join Tolpuddle marchers ON July 22, members of Wells Labour Party took part in the annual procession through the Dorset village of Tolpuddle to commemorate the six Tolpuddle Martyrs. They joined the thousands at the weekend of entertainment, music and political debate, and marched with their banner, made this year by local members, to honour and commemorate the martyrs. The six farm labourers from Tolpuddle, members of a ‘friendly society’, were arrested
in 1834 for illegally swearing a secret oath to help protect their income, which had dropped from 10 shillings down to 6 shillings a week. Tried at Dorchester and sentenced to seven years in a penal colony in Australia, the government allowed the men to return home after three years with free pardons following a huge public outcry. The men’s actions helped pave the way for the creation of trade unions, and the protection of employees’ rights.
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wellsvoice
24
September 2018
n WELLS BEER FESTIVAL
Dozens of beers and ciders to sample TICKETS have gone on sale for Wells Lions’ first beer festival, which is being held in the city in October. Wells Beer Festival will feature 45 beers and ciders for festival-goers to try in the historic surroundings of the Bishop’s Barn. There will be live music and, in true beerfest tradition, a chance to try the finest German cuisine at the two evening sessions. The event takes place on Friday, October 26, and Saturday, October 27, and will be divided into three sessions: Friday 7pm-11pm, and Saturday 12pm-4pm and 7pm-11pm. Food in the form of bratwurst, currywurst and sauerkraut will be available each evening from servers from the Leckerbissen deli, clad in their finest lederhosen. Music will be provided by well known performers including Wells Jazz Collective, Ross Kirk,
Oska Zaky and Sam Evans. There will also be an open mic session on the Saturday afternoon. Tickets cost £10, which includes six half pints. All profits will benefit local charities. Tickets can be bought online at www.eventbrite.co.uk (search for ‘Wells Beer Festival’) or by calling 01749 670100 or emailing rod@nchq.co.uk There is also an opportunity to sponsor a barrel at the event. Barrel sponsors will receive six free tickets to the festival, each of which can be exchanged for six drinks; their logo displayed on the Wells Lions website; and an entry in the festival guide. To sponsor a barrel, fill out the form below and leave it with Rod Major at his Wells Funeral Services stall at Wells Market on a Wednesday between 10am and 2pm, or contact him on the telephone number or email address given above.
Wells Beer Festival will take place on October 26 and 27
CITY OF WELLS BEER FESTIVAL
DRINK. TASTE. ENJOY. 26-27 OCTOBER 2018
Organised by City of Wells Lions
sponsor a barrel
If you want to really get involved at the first Wells Beer Festival then why not sponsor your very own barrel of beer? CONTACT US Visit our website www.wellsbeerfestival.co.uk Send an email to rod@nchq.co.uk or telephone Rod on 01749 670 100
for every barrel sponsored you get
TICKETS £10 (INCLUDES 6 X HALF PINTS) Welcome the first City of Wells Beer Festival! England’s smallest city is delighted to be hosting this new festival of all things beer. A paradise for beer lovers, this is an event not to be missed, with 45 different beers and ciders available to suit all tastes. There will be three festival sessions: Friday 26th: Saturday 27th: Saturday 27th:
7pm - 11pm (Over 18s only) 12pm - 4pm (Family Session) 7pm - 11pm (Over 18s only)
Six free entry tickets, each one can be exchanged for six drinks Your logo displayed on our website A business-card size entry in our full-colour, 60-page festival guide (4,000 copies will be printed and distributed locally)
✂
wells beer festival 2018 - barrel sponsorship form We would like to sponsor (please circle): ONE (£95) TWO (£180) THREE (£250) FOUR (£320) Barrels
FOR MORE MORE INFORMATION INFORMATION AND FOR AND TICKETS, TICKETS, VISIT VISIT OUR OUR WEBSITE: WEBSITE:
WWW.WELLSBEERFESTIVAL.CO.UK WWW.WELLSBEERFESTIVAL.CO.UK
AllProfits proceeds benefit charities will be will divided amongstlocal local charities: and other causes Mendip YMCA, Children’s Hospice South worthy West, Heads-Up, and Marie Curie Cancer Care
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Full Name ...............................................................................................................................
Name of Organisation .......................................................................................................
Address ...................................................................................................................................
Payment method (please circle): CASH / CHEQUE / BACS Please make cheques payable to ‘Wells B2B’
or call Rod Major on 01749 670 100 for BACS payment details 32 I........................................................................................................................................ moat boat races www.wellsbeerfestival.co.uk Email
Postcode .................................................. Tel No ...............................................................
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wellsvoice
September 2018
25
n NEWS
Edgar Phillips with Rosie Martin, chief executive of The Bishop’s Palace, and the bishop’s crozier
Artist’s mind blown by dragon discovery EDGAR Phillips, artist-inresidence at The Bishop’s Palace, is well known in Wells for his stunning stained-glass art which can be found in many locations in the city; the beautiful wings in the Palace Gardens, the iconic Rainbow Wings at the Glastonbury Festival, a moving window at St Joseph & St Teresa’s School. He has been working from the restored Apple Store in the Palace Gardens for the last two years and has been planning a large-scale project to bring to life one of the Palace’s most famous stories. The tale of Bishop Jocelyn and his slaying of the Dragon of Worminster is much loved among local residents and has
been told in many ways over the years. Edgar had been in talks with the Palace to reproduce a stained-glass version of the dragon to enhance the corner of the Gardens nearest to his studio, but the artist was experiencing a strange type of “artist’s block”. “Over the past three years, I have in all sorts of lights, weathers, moods, and even characters stared at the space where any self-respecting dragon would show itself... and nuffin, not a sausage,” he said. “I’ve looked at thousands of images of dragons, worms, wyrmes, wyverns, lizards, crocodiles, dinosaurs and snakes – all to no avail, nothing was speaking to me.”
Dancing with a bit of brainwork A WORKOUT with a difference is on offer at Irish Set Dancing sessions in Dinder Village Hall, near Wells. The dancing, in sets of four couples, is fairly disciplined with a bit of brainwork. There will be a dance workshop on Sunday, September 2, from 11am-1pm, costing £3 with refreshments included, a bring and share lunch from 1pm-2pm, and a ceili from 2pm5pm, again £3 with refreshments
included. The dance sessions will continue on the first Sunday of each month thereafter until June. Participants can come on their own or as a couple, and no booking is required. The group will also meet on Thursday evenings, again at Dinder Village Hall, from 8pm10pm, starting on Thursday, September 6. For more information, email paulrharper@btopenworld.com
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One day, Edgar realised that he had never visited the Cathedral’s historic Chained Library and decided to pay it a visit to see if he would find any dragon-based inspiration among the ancient tomes. The search proved to be fruitless, but as he was about to leave, he spotted a postcard with a swirling dragonlike figure within an old bishop’s crozier. Thrilled with his postcard find, he thanked the staff and prepared to leave, only to be told that the actual crozier, belonging to Bishop Jocelyn himself and dating from 13th century, was in a display case on the wall behind him. “My search was over. My mind was blown,” said Edgar. “I knew right then what to create, and how it would seamlessly integrate itself upon the Palace wall in my mind like nothing had even remotely come close to in three years.” Edgar will now begin working on his creation, which he expects to be ready for the 800th anniversary of the building of the Palace in 2020.
Wells Painting Group is holding its 2018 exhibition in Wells & Mendip Museum overlooking Cathedral Green from Saturday, September 15, to Saturday, September 29. This popular exhibition will be open from 10am to 5pm every day except Sunday and admission is free. Group members paint a wide range of subjects in every medium; one painted the picture shown above. The paintings are for sale and there will be cards to buy too.
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wellsvoice
26
September 2018
n HERITAGE OPEN DAYS
Focus on women as doors thrown open HISTORIC Wells Town Hall is one of the venues throwing open their doors to the public again for this year’s Heritage Open Days. Most ground floor rooms in the Town Hall will be open on Saturday, September 8, including the Old Court Room and the Council Chamber. The Town Hall, which is a Grade II listed building dating from 1779, will be open between 10am and 4pm. There will be new local history displays too, all for free. This year, in recognition of the centenary of the Universal Suffrage Act, the Wells Town Hall Heritage Open Days event aims to incorporate the national
Heritage Open Days theme of Extraordinary Women – focusing on both well-known and less celebrated women. The Town Hall will have displays on Women’s Suffrage in Wells, Women’s Firsts in Wells, Women of Wells: A Selection from History (including a montage of Phillips portraits), and Women at the Wells Charter Fairs. A suffrage playlet with a unique link to the city, A Chat with Mrs Chicky, will be performed in the Council Chamber at noon. The stunning Millennium Tapestry, created by a group of local women embroiderers, will be exhibited. There will be a specially created exhibition called Mills of Wells, and Wells Railway Fraternity will also be exhibiting with a special display to mark the Fraternity’s 50th anniversary. Wells Town Hall will incorporate the theme of Extraordinary Women
A water wheel at Keward Mill
Picture: © L Bailey
New display will tell story of mills and describe city’s watercourses WELLS once had five (possibly six) mills which stood along the St Andrew’s Stream which runs through the city. The recently formed Wells Mills Interest Group has created a new display which tells the story of these mills as well as describing the watercourses of Wells. Did you know that way back in 1086, the Domesday Book mentioned four mills which belonged to the Bishop of Wells? Or that the city had two silk
factories at one time? Come along and find out about the mystery of a St John Street Mill and its possible link with the Rose and Crown. And read about such matters as “Deodorisers, Dung and Defective Closets”. This exhibition is liberally illustrated with lots of fascinating images. It will be on display in the Old Court Room in Wells Town Hall on Saturday, September 8, between 10am and 4pm.
access to a special example from the museum’s sampler collection.
2pm and 3pm. Refreshments. (HOD coinciding with trips up the tower, £5/£2.50.) n Sunday, September 16, open from 2pm-4pm. Teas. Eucharist service using Tudor replica organ at 5.30pm. (HOD coinciding with trips up the tower, £5/£2.50.)
HERITAGE OPEN DAYS TIMETABLE OF EVENTS Mendip Hospital Cemetery and Chapel Special tours of the cemetery, and a display of historic photographs and documents plus, maps and plans of the Mendip Hospital. n Saturday, September 8, 10am4pm, tours 11am and 3pm. n Sunday, September 9, 10am4pm, tours 11am and 3pm. n Saturday, September 15, 10am4pm, tours 11am and 3pm. n Sunday, September 16, 10am4pm, tours 11am and 3pm. Wells Cathedral Free special ‘behind the scenes’ tours celebrating some of the extraordinary women who have contributed to Wells Cathedral’s fabric and history. 1. A tour which includes the Vicars’ Hall – this is reached via stairs. 2. A ground floor, fully accessible tour, including seeing examples of the Quire embroideries close up. Pre-booking required at https://
www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/heritageopen-days-behind-the-scenestour-fully-accessible-groundfloortickets-47423852018 n Saturday, September 8, tours start 12pm, 12.40pm, 1.20pm, 2pm, 2.40pm, 3.20pm. n Saturday, September 15, tours start 12pm, 12.40pm, 1.20pm, 2pm, 2.40pm, 3.20pm. City of Wells Almshouses Refreshments served all day, live music between 2.30pm and 3pm. n Saturday, September 8, 11am4pm. Wells & Mendip Museum n Thursday, September 6, 11am, curator’s tour. There will also be free access to a special example from the museum’s sampler collection. n Friday, September 7, free access to a special example from the museum’s sampler collection. n Saturday, September 8, free
To advertise, contact Andy on 01749 675157
Wells Walking Tours A tour of approximately 90 minutes around parts of Wells that were of particular interest in 1918, starting outside Wells Museum and finishing at St Cuthbert’s Church. Booking required: call 01749 672438 or email guide@ wellswalkingtours.co.uk n Friday, September 7, 10am. St Cuthbert’s Church n Saturday, September 8, open from 10am-4pm. Morning: coffee, cake and Nelson Recorder Trio. Talks about 15th century reredoses at 2pm and 3pm. n Sunday, September 9, open from 2pm-4pm. Talks about 15th century reredoses at 2pm and 3pm. n Saturday, September 15, open from 10am-4pm. Talks about 15th century reredoses at 11am, 12pm,
Old Deanery n Saturday, September 15, open from 10am-4pm, guided tours. The Bishop’s Palace A guided one-hour tour – Swans, Bells and the Girl who Started a Wonderful Tradition. Booking required: call 01749 988111 ext 202 or email siobhan.goodwin@ bishopspalace.org.uk n Thursday, September 13, 1pm. Wells Town Hall Rooms open to explore and a variety of displays – see above. n Saturday, September 8, 10am4pm.
Email: sales@wellsvoice.co.uk
wellsvoice
September 2018
27
n NEWS
Book brings triumphant end to long search for lost poems A NEW book has been published that gathers together all the poems of Wells’ Baker Bard, William Catcott. The book was launched at Wells & Mendip Museum on August 3 with short speeches by Clare Blackmore, who initiated the project, and Bob Burns of Burns the Bread, who helped finance it. “Five years ago while researching in the archives of the Wells Journal, I saw a reference to The Baker Bard of Wells, as William became known, and becoming intrigued, set out on a quest to find his lost poems,” said Clare. “His poetry is simple and reflects the beauties of nature that he saw around him, the people that he met and the social causes of the Victorian age that he felt strongly about.” William was born in West Horrington in 1808. He attended a Dame school for one term until he could do his mathematical tables and then worked with his father, who was a woolpicker and stocking knitter, and was educated by his mother using the only books they possessed in the home, the Bible and Treasure Island. When his uncle died, William and his brother John took over his bakery in Tor Street and there he lived and worked as a baker for the rest of his life. As he made and baked bread and then delivered it on a wooden
Pictured at the book launch are, from left, Mayor of Wells Celia Wride, Wendy Lovegrove who provided illustrations for the book, Terri Petherbridge and Bob Burns of Burns the Bread, Clare Blackmore and Mayoress Sarah Wride, who helped edit the book with Clare and Bill Allen barrow around the streets of Wells and the lanes of the villages, William composed poetry. Initially he could not afford to have his poems published himself but sent them to newspapers such as the Wells Journal, the Bath Chronicle, The Bristol Times and Mirror who published them in their pages. In 1854 William managed to publish a small volume of his poetry called Morning Musings which was a subscription only publication and of which there are only three known surviving copies. In addition to the poems
At the Heart of England’s Smallest City City of Wells Town Hall Various rooms to hire for: Conferences, Seminars Fairs, Shows, Exhibitions, Marriages, Receptions, all types of Meetings and Local Group Classes Very reasonable rates
For Prices and Bookings contact the Town Hall Manager- Tel: 01749 673091. e-mail: thm@wells.gov.uk Website: www.wells.gov.uk
Got News? Call 07906 499655
in this volume, 48 more were found and for the first time in 170 years, the Complete Works of William Catcott have been collated into one volume, and with sponsorship from Bob Burns, of Burns the Bread, who showed great belief in the project, they are now ready to share with contemporary lovers of all things Wells and poetry. Copies will soon be available in Wells Waterstones or are available now from Clare on blackmore.clare@btinternet. com, tel: 01749 870588. The price is £9.99 and any profit from the project will be donated to the museum.
Heritage and arts sessions FROM September, The Bishop’s Palace in Wells will be hosting a wide range of heritage skills workshops and arts classes. Designed to appeal to beginners, enthusiasts and anyone wanting to discover a new talent or just have fun trying, the classes will encompass a variety of different disciplines. Courses and workshops will include: Letter Carving, Stone Carving, Candle Making, Botanical Watercolours, Soap Making, Oil Painting, Lino Printing, Surface Embroidery, Singing and Christmas Wreath Making. They will range from half-day classes to longer courses where people can develop skills in more depth, and create interesting pieces of work – or a unique, handmade gift – to take away. For further information, contact the Palace office on 01749 988111 ext 200, or email info@bishopspalace.org.uk
Letter Carving is one of the courses available at The Bishop’s Palace
Bowley’s Garage
A professional, family-run garage focusing on customer satisfaction and traditional values, within walking distance of the city centre u MOT testing u Servicing to all makes and models u Engine diagnostics and fault finding u Fully equipped vehicle repair workshop u Air conditioning servicing and repair
Call 01749 674554
Visit www.bowleysgarage.co.uk
Westfield Road Trading Estate, Wells BA5 2HS
Email: news@wellsvoice.co.uk
wellsvoice
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September 2018
n PROPERTY
Estate agency set to open office in Wells LODESTONE Property is preparing to open its second office in Wells two years after setting up in Bruton. The company was launched in September 2016 by ‘olderpreneurs’ Cathy MorrisAdams and Sue Macey, who had successful careers in the nuclear, television, medical and property industries, before combining their estate agency and business experience to create a new breed of estate agency. The office in Wells has seen the appointment of two new members of the team, including Charlie Armytage, who will head it up. He formerly worked for a local estate agency and before that was a trader, relationship manager and compliance officer in the City. “I am excited to join such an
Pitney £2,200,000
Worminster £1,450,000
Bruton £1,400,000
Castle Cary £1,200,000
Henton £1,200,000
Wookey £850,000
Cathy Morris-Adams Managing Partner
Sue Macey Managing Partner
inspiring business as Lodestone to help further their growth and manage their Wells office,” said Charlie. Because of the way they work, Lodestone will now cover buying, selling and letting residential property across Somerset. Sue, co-founder and managing partner, said: “We wanted to do something different and be ground-breaking in the industry. We don’t have a high street presence as we would prefer to invest in a high ratio of staff to ensure our sales complete, and we also don’t use the traditional marketing channels; we work with a network of bloggers, who have helped us target audiences which fit with our current listings, as well as increasing our profile on social media platforms.”
Wheelwrights’ House has a good sized garden with well stocked flowerbeds
Detached home with large garden SET on a quiet, no through private road and extended in 2011, Wheelwrights’ House at 49 Portway, Wells, sits within a good sized, south facing garden. There is also a useful outbuilding to the east of the house, currently providing garaging for two cars and a workshop/store, offering scope for further development subject to any necessary permission.
AWARD WINNING LODESTONE OPENING IN WELLS! Lodestone Property is opening an office in Wells on Monday the 3rd of September to coincide with its second birthday. Currently based in Bruton, Lodestone’s portfolio of properties has been expanding across Somerset. Our second office will enable more clients to experience our modern approach to estate agency and the high level of service that we are becoming known for. Please go to our website to find out more about us and why we are different.
www.lodestoneproperty.co.uk bruton@lodestoneproperty.co.uk | wells@lodestoneproperty.co.uk
To advertise, contact Andy on 01749 675157
The impressive drawing room has an open fireplace and doors out onto the garden, there is another fireplace in the dining room, and there are three double bedrooms, one with an en suite bathroom and dressing area. The property is for sale with Holland & Odam’s Wells office with an asking price of £675,000. Tel: 01749 671020.
Upton Noble £850,000
Corton Denham £550,000
Lovington £550,000
Ditcheat £500,000
Nunney £425,000
West Pennard £325,000
Francoise Jackson
Charlie Armytage
Branch Manager (Bruton)
Branch Manager (Wells)
01749 605099 (Bruton) 01749 605088 (Wells)
Email: sales@wellsvoice.co.uk
Wells 01749 671020
Lettings 01458 844199
Glastonbury 01458 833123
New Instruction
Wells
New Instruction
£475,000 2
2
3
Street 01458 841411
D
A detached bungalow built in the 1940's that has been thoroughly updated and refurbished in recent years. The property is Y shaped which provides generous accommodation and set in a good sized plot that has been landscaped with a view to easy maintenance. Within the grounds are a useful garage/workshop, a block-built summer house, two further stores and ample parking.
01749 671020
Wells
£129,950 1
1
2
A well presented and maintained first floor retirement flat for the over 60's occupying a corner position within this purpose-built development. Of particular note is the light and airy sitting room which enjoys a double aspect. Within easy, level walking distance of the city centre. Emergency call system and a house manager. Communal facilities including gardens and parking (subject to availability).
01749 671020
New Instruction
£235,000
South Horrington 1
2
2
N/A
B
To Rent
£1,950 pcm
Croscombe 3
2
5
C
An imaginative and unusual house within the Grade II listed former hospital that forms the centre of South Horrington. The property is set on the very edge of the development with stunning views and the living space and the ground floor bedroom both enjoy a triple aspect giving light and airy accommodation with direct access to the communal grounds. Allocated parking space and visitors’ parking.
A superb 5 bedroom detached house in this popular village with easy access to Wells and Shepton Mallet. There are picturesque views to the rear and viewing is highly recommended. Available September for up to two years. Unfurnished. All tenants are required to pay £150 (inclusive of VAT) administration fee upon application. Deposit equivalent to 6 weeks rent.
01749 671020
01458 844199
sales
lettings
2/798. H&O Wells Voice Advert 180x250mm.indd 1
hollandandodam.co.uk 16/08/2018 11:49
wellsvoice
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n THE PROPERTY MARKET
September 2018
With Roderick Thomas of Roderick Thomas Ltd
The big roomy house comes as part of the package along with a slice of beautiful countryside and a very profitable business
Change of lifestyle? HAVE you ever wished for or considered a change of lifestyle? Current life a bit dull, want to work for yourself or with your partner? Have more free time? Go skiing for a few weeks in the winter, play more golf or tennis, or maybe have more money? I think most of us have had these thoughts from time to time. If you have, here’s an opportunity to make that change. I’ve just put onto the market not only a property but also a new lifestyle. Greenacres Camping Site. This is a great property in a quiet setting in beautiful countryside, well away from all busy roads, between Wells and Glastonbury. It includes a big roomy house in 1.5 acres with storage buildings, and – and this is the lifestyle part – a successful 4.5-acre CAMPSITE. The campsite runs just from the spring to autumn and is an
excellent and very profitable business. It’s great value being available at £1,200,000 in total including this tremendous house, the land and the business. For further details call me, Roderick Thomas, on 01749 670079.
Greenacres Camping Site stretches to 4.5 acres
CLIFTON 01179 734464 CASTLE CARY 01963 351993 WEDMORE 01934 710220 WELLS 01749 670079 Mobile 07791789954 www.roderickthomas.co.uk rdt@roderickthomas.co.uk
The generous accommodation includes three reception rooms and six bedrooms
To advertise, contact Andy on 01749 675157
Email: sales@wellsvoice.co.uk
wellsvoice
September 2018
31
n NEWS
Young people learn about art of ceramics YOUNGSTERS from disadvantaged homes were given a taste of the art of ceramics by artist Philippa Threlfall, renowned for her mural ceramics and founder, with her husband Kennedy Collings, of Black Dog of Wells. Now that her son Daniel produces Black Dog’s decorative tiles in Bath, Philippa decided to offer her expertise, and her studio in Tor Street, to encourage young people to take an interest in art. Following a conversation with Wells Independents’ Simon Lawder, they have teamed up with PROMISEworks, an organisation dedicated to providing opportunities for disadvantaged and vulnerable Somerset youngsters. “The first workshop was a taster session to see how the young people responded,” said Philippa. “I’ve always loved working with the young and it’s
Making tiles with Philippa Threlfall, left, at Black Dog
great to see my studio put to good use. Let’s hope that today’s session proves to be the first of many, and that others can use it to expand the range of arts workshops.” It is understood that Edgar Phillips, resident artist at the Bishop’s Palace, is also interested in helping these young people to learn about stained glass. Ali Hart, Caseholder for PROMISEworks, who are funded by STAR (Somerset Trust for Arts and Recreation), said: “Our young people had a wonderful time enjoying new experiences they would not have otherwise had – and with so much personal attention. At school the focus is on core academic subjects so opportunities to work in the arts are limited.” This initiative comes from conversations started at Wells Independents’ public meeting in July.
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Got News? Call 07906 499655
somerset@shuttercraft.co.uk
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Email: news@wellsvoice.co.uk
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September 2018
n WHAT’S ON September 1 n Antiques, Crafts & Collectors Market, Wells Town Hall, 10am4pm. Admission free. September 3 n New History of Art: the Bigger Picture autumn lecture series with Joanna Cobb MA starts with ‘Every Picture Tells a Story: Reading 19thcentury Art’, Dinder Village Hall, 7.30pm-9.30pm. £10 per lecture or £25 for series of three. Concessions for couples. Includes handouts and refreshments. More from Joanna on 01458 832178 or ericjoanna@ waitrose.com September 4 n Calligraphy: start of six week course in Roundhand, Wells Library, 10am-11.30am. Cost £29.50, booking essential. Beginners welcome. September 5 n Health Walk in and around Wells, meet Pickwicks Cafe 11am, with Ruth/John. 60-90 minutes. n Wells Board Game Group, Cheese Yard Cafe, West Horrington, fish and chip night, meet at 6pm, games start at 7pm. n Jean Sheldon will be holding some shared readings from her book Letters From Libya 19661969, made up of extracts from a young bride’s letters home from Tripoli to her parents, Wells Library, 11am to noon. September 8 n Coffee and cake morning, organised by Wells Labour Party, Lawrence Centre, Chamberlain Street, Wells. Drop in for a coffee, a cake and a chat, anytime in the morning between 10.30am and noon. Everyone welcome. n Medieval Falconry Day, The Bishop’s Palace, 10am-4pm. Flying displays twice a day and chance in between to handle the falcons and owls. Event included in standard admission. n Coffee Morning in aid of church funds, Wells Methodist Church, Southover, 10am-noon. n Croscombe Harvest Market, Croscombe Village Hall, 10am2pm. Local produce, artisan bakes, honey, vintage lighting, tombola, refreshments, light lunches. Free entry and all welcome. Enquiries: marylucia.cadogan@gmail.com or 01749 572875. Stalls available. September 9 n Music from Harry and the Gondolas, The Venue, South Street, early evening. n Macmillan Quiz at The Britannia Inn, Bath Road, 7.30pm. Teams of
n OCTOBER 6: Autumn
Concert. Midsomer Norton & Radstock Silver Band Reflect and Celebrate 100 years. St Thomas’ Church, Wells, 7.30pm. Tickets include complimentary refreshments, price £10. Sales from the Parish Office, 01749 672335, and on the door.
four, £3 per team. To book, phone Terry Ricketts on 01749 672342. September 11 n Wells Floral Art Club presents Let’s Go to the Movies-Take 2, a demonstration by Marie Munday, St Thomas’ Church Hall, Wells, 2.15pm. All are welcome. n Wells Writers Group, The Globe Inn, Priest Row, 7pm. n Wells Railway Fraternity talk by Les Nixon, Fires Dropped – the End of Steam on BR, Wells Town Hall, 7.30pm. September 13 n Hatha Yoga class at Wells Town Hall, 11am-12.30pm, £39 for seven sessions, or free through WEA if on means tested benefits. FFI: fayeyoga.co.uk n Open Mic Night, Wells Golf Club, from 7.30pm. Just turn up. For further details, call 01749 675005 or email secretary@wellsgolfclub. co.uk September 14 n From the Top Orchestra and Cantabile Ladies’ Choir bring Music from The Wars to St Cuthbert’s Church, Wells, at 7.30pm. With soloist Iain Macleod-Jones. Tickets £10 to include a programme and flag to wave. Available from the church, Cadeaux & Co, Jane Savery 01749 670527 or on the door. September 15 n St Margaret’s Hospice Care Coffee Morning, Seager Hall, Wells, 10am-noon. All the usuals plus a bit more. n Oxfam Ceilidh, Coxley Memorial Hall, 7.30pm-10.30pm. Music by Rough Round the Edges. Bar. Tickets £6 which includes a light supper, available from the Oxfam Shop, Wells, or by ringing Trevor on 01749 689199. September 16 n Day of brass band music on Wells bandstand, or in the Bishop’s Barn if wet, 10am-5pm. Free. September 17 n Ploughman’s lunch, Seager Hall, Wells, noon-1pm. Proceeds for Christian Aid.
To advertise, contact Andy on 01749 675157
September 19 n Cheese Tasting and Cheese Sale in aid of St Thomas’ Church Development Fund, under the guidance of Chris Stilton, St Thomas’ Church Hall, 7.30pm. Admission £10. n Health Walk in and around Wells, meet Pickwicks Cafe 11am, with Ruth/John. 60-90 minutes. n Wells Board Game Group, Cheese Yard Cafe, West Horrington, 7pm-9.30pm. September 20 n Hatha Yoga class at Wells Town Hall, 11am-12.30pm, £39 for seven sessions, or free through WEA if on means tested benefits. FFI: fayeyoga.co.uk September 21 n Chinese Banquet, Wells Golf Club Restaurant. Buffet-style three-course meal, £20. Booking essential. Call 01749 675005 or email secretary@wellsgolfclub. co.uk September 22 n Vintage Somerset Fair, Wells Town Hall. Vintage clothes, textiles, vinyl, gifts, accessories, jewellery, toys, books, collectables, kitchenalia, plus artisans selling their retro/vintage vibe wares. Entry £1, 50p for students, under 16s free. September 23 n Harvest Festival conducted by Rev Tina Swire , Wells Methodist Church, Southover, 10.30am. Followed by refreshments. September 26 n Action On Hearing Loss hearing assessments, Wells Library, 9.30am-noon. Free, very quick, no appointment needed, no obligation. September 27 n Hatha Yoga class at Wells Town Hall, 11am-12.30pm, £39 for seven sessions, or free through WEA if on means tested benefits. FFI: fayeyoga.co.uk September 28 n 1950s’ Retro Night at Wells RFC in aid of Macmillan Cancer Supprt, 7pm-11pm. Live music from Rip It Up. Tickets £12.50, to include American diner food, from Bishop Jones, 55a High Street, Wells. Tel: 01749 678307. n Tristan & Iseult – a Tale to Break Your Heart, with storyteller Beth Webb and musician Mary Bateman, Undercroft, The Bishop’s Palace, 6.30pm-8.30pm. Canapés and wine, included in the ticket price, will be served during the interval.
Tickets £15.50, available at The Bishop’s Palace shop and via the website. n Quiz Night, Wells Golf Club, 7.30pm. Teams of four to six, £8 per person including food. Booking essential. Call 01749 675005 or email secretary@wellsgolfclub. co.uk n Concert in St Paul’s Church, Easton, with local professional soprano Sarah Minns, and a new young talent, Flo Lunnon. Performance starts at 7.30pm. Tickets £10 each including a glass of wine available from Jane 01749 870543 or Pam 01749 679538. REGULAR EVENTS Every Monday n Wells Breakaways Short Mat Bowls Club, meet every Monday except bank holidays, Kennion Hall, Blue School, from 6.45pm. Four mats available, try for three weeks for free, beginners welcome, equipment available, refreshments. n Zen meditation, The Drawing Room, 4 Heritage Courtyard, Sadler Street, 7.45pm. Drop in. Suggested donation £5. Mats and cushions provided. Tel: Paul 01749 670193. Every Tuesday n Soda Art Group, 1.30pm3.30pm, Learning and Skills Centre, Portway. Special welcome for people with a disability. Tutorials, chances to exhibit, and expeditions out for workshops. More from 01749 673755 or 673334. n Wells Good Afternoon Choir, Seager Hall, Wells, 2pm-4pm. ‘Singing in the Afternoon’ with Grenville Jones. Everyone welcome. gac@grenvillemusic.co.uk n Smashup badminton for all abilities with music and your mates. Ages 11-18. Wells Blue Sports Centre, 7pm-8pm, £2.50 per session. n Zumba Gold. Lower impact, easier steps, Wells Leisure Centre. 10.45am-11.10am, £5 a session. Tel Jacqui 07870 544551 or just turn up. n Latin-based cardio dance exercise, Wells Cathedral School
n DO YOU WANT YOUR EVENT TO STAND OUT?
We try to print as many listings as possible for free, but if you want to ensure your event is included and gets attention, we will print it with a colour background like this for just £5 + VAT. Find out more by emailing sales@wellsvoice.co.uk
Email: sales@wellsvoice.co.uk
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September 2018
33
n WHAT’S ON PILOGAFIT Pilates Yoga Fitness Fusion for Spine & Core Stability Connect Centre Mondays 5.30 - 6.30pm Thursdays 9.30 - 10.30am St Thomas Church Hall Wednesdays 5.30 - 6.30pm Drop in - Pay as you go - £5 John Beasley 01749 672482 www.pilogafit.co.uk www.taichi24.co.uk
PILOGAFIT Additional exercise class SS&L Building - Portway Avenue Free Parking Fridays 12.15 - 1.15pm Details as above dance studio, 6.45pm-7.45pm. Tel Jacqui 07870 544551 or just turn up. n Don’t struggle with your mental health difficulties alone. Come along to SEO Mental Health peer support group, Connect Centre,
Wells, BA5 2BE, 2pm -3.30pm. £3 suggested voluntary donation to cover costs. n Wookey Choirworks (ladies choir), 7.30pm to 8.30pm, Wookey Primary School hall, no auditions, singing for fun, £4pw. Contact wookey.choirworks@gmail.com n Pilates mat class 9.15am, Wells Town Hall. First class free. Prebooking essential: zest2zen@gmail. com, 07946 310877. n Life Drawing, The Drawing Room, 4 Heritage Courtyard, Sadler Street, 7pm-9.15pm. Tutored class with life models, £12 inc tea. Tel Molly 07793 387848 or Paul 07918 731137. Every Wednesday n Wells Market, Market Place, 9am-4pm. n Wells Table Tennis Club, Seager Hall, Union Street, 6.30pm-9pm. n Mendip All Drummers community djembe (African hand-drumming) group. Meet at Croscombe Village Hall, Fayreway, from 10am-1pm. Beginners and learners welcome; drums available. £4 per session. Ring Charles on 07881 304609 or just turn up. n Wells Kettlercise, Town Hall,
DISABLED ACCESS IN ALL 3 SCREENS
Market Place, 6pm. First class free. Pre-booking essential. Contact Sally Ann Frampton, zest2zen@ gmail.com, 07946 310877. n Pilates class, Wells Town Hall, Market Place, 7.15pm. First class free. Pre-booking essential: zest2zen@gmail.com, 07946 310877. Every Thursday n Tai Chi For Health & Vitality, Westbury Village Hall, 12-1pm. Any age or ability. Drop in, pay as you go, £5. n Mid Somerset Wargamers,
Advertise your event in our What’s On section with a 5cm x 1 column display advert like this
Just £15 + VAT
Find out more by emailing sales@wellsvoice.co.uk
OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK
Seager Hall, Wells, 7pm. Role play and board games. Members must be 18 or over; juniors (12 or over) can attend with adult member. facebook.com/ groups/1395072510738529/ n Pilates mat class, Wells Town Hall, 9.15am. First class free. Prebooking essential: zest2zen@gmail. com, 07946 310877. n From August 9, Life Drawing, The Drawing Room, 4 Heritage Courtyard, Sadler Street, 1.30pm3.30pm. Tutored class with life models, £12 inc tea. Tel Molly 07793 387848 or Paul 07918 731137. n Irish Set Dancing with caller, Dinder Village Hall, 8pm-10pm. £3, includes refreshments. For more details, call 01458 210051. Every Friday n Live music, The City Arms, High Street, 8.30pm. n Wells Country Market, Seager Hall, Union Street, 10am-noon. All home-cooked food plus craft and produce table. n Wells Refugee Aid collection at Wells Town Hall, 10am-11.45am. Continued on page 34
STATE OF THE ART 3D
PRINCES ROAD, WELLS, BA5 1TD
01749 673195
wellsfilmcentre.co.uk SEPTEMBER FILM RELEASES SPY WHO DUMPED ME (15) - FROM 7TH HURRICANE (15) - FROM 7TH ALPHA (12A) - FROM 7TH KING OF THIEVES (cert tbc) FROM 14TH SEARCHING (12A) - FROM 14TH THE SEAGULL (12A) FROM 14TH A SIMPLE FAVOUR (15) FROM 21ST HOUSE WITH A CLOCK IN ITS WALLS (cert tbc) 21ST LITTLE STRANGER (12A) FROM 21ST
UPCOMING EVENT CINEMA THE MERRY WIVES OF WINDSOR RSC - WED 12TH SEPT 7PM LA BOHEME - SYDNEY HARBOUR THUR 13TH SEPT 7PM THE MERRY WIDOW BALLET - THUR 20TH SEPT 7PM KING LEAR - NATIONAL THEATRE THUR 27TH SEPT 7PM WINTER’S TALE - GLOBE THUR 4TH OCT 7.15PM
PLUS MANY MORE, A WORLD OF CINEMA AWAITS! Got News? Call 07906 499655
Email: news@wellsvoice.co.uk
wellsvoice
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September 2018
n WHAT’S ON From page 33 Collecting donations in Wells for refugees around the world. Warm clothes, waterproof shoes, blankets and sleeping bags always needed. n Pilates class, Wells Town Hall, Market Place, 9.45am; and seated and standing Pilates class for older adults, 11am. First class free. Prebooking essential: zest2zen@gmail. com, 07946 310877. n Zumba Gold at St Thomas’ Church Hall, Wells, 10am-11am and 11.30am-12.30pm. £5 per session (second class free if you stay for it). More details from Carole-Anne on 07484 216900 / 01278 722292. n Tai Chi for Health class, Connect Centre, Wells, BA5 2BE, 2pm-
3.30pm. Very gentle exercise, can be done seated if necessary. Suitable for all. Everyone welcome. £3 donation. n Wells and Wookey Scottish Dancers, Wookey Village Hall, 7.15pm-9.45pm. All abilities welcome. For more information call 01749 672672 (all day), 01749 677548 (daytime), 01749 672805 (evening) or go to wellsscottishdancers.btck.co.uk Every Saturday n Wells Market, Market Place, 9am-4pm. n Pay and Play badminton for all abilities, teenagers and adults, Wells Blue Sports Centre, 9am10am, £3 per session. n Badzone – Wells Junior
Badminton Club for all abilities – ages 7-15. Wells Blue Sports Centre, 10am-11am, £3 per session. Every Sunday n Zen meditation, The Drawing Room, 4 Heritage Courtyard, Sadler Street, 7.15am for 7.30am. Drop in. Suggested donation £5. Mats and cushions provided. Tel: Paul 01749 670193. First Sunday of each month n Irish Set Dancing at Dinder Village Hall, BA5 3PF. Workshop 11am-1pm, £3. Bring and share lunch 1pm-2pm. Ceili 2pm-5pm, £3. For more details, call 01458 210051. First Tuesday of each month n Wells WI, Wells & Mendip
Museum. Start 7.30pm. Visitors welcome. Third Sunday of each month n Gorgons Carnival Club quiz, Britannia Inn, Bath Road, Wells. Quiz starts at 7.30pm, teams of up to four people, £2 a player. There is also a raffle. More information from Shelly Ford on GorgonsCC@aol. com or 07894 078999. First and third Mondays n ‘Clickety Click’ knitting group, Wells Methodist Church Hall, Southover, 10am-noon. First, third (and fifth) Wednesdays n Open Mic Night, The Globe Inn, Wells, 7.30pm.
n AROUND THE SOCIETIES WELLS & DISTRICT GARDENING CLUB ‘I VALUE my garden more for being full of blackbirds than of cherries and frankly give them fruit for their song.’ These words by the 18th century essayist Joseph Addison find an echo with many gardeners today. All of us who own and enjoy gardens share our plots with other creatures. We are not the only ones at work. There are pesky intruders as well as beneficial ones, but birds top the list as being the most conspicuous and joyful of visitors. In England domestic gardens account for 18 per cent of urban land use. That’s quite a lot of ground that is cared for, more or less. We gardeners are stewards in a sense of the land we manage. The creatures who visit and cohabit our plots are in our care. So with that in mind, Wells Gardening Club has invited Chris Sperring MBE to give a talk on Birds in the Garden. Chris is one of the foremost naturalists and conservationists in the West Country. He is a well-known broadcaster and writer, long associated with the conservation of owls and their habitat, and for many years has been conservation officer for the Hawk & Owl Trust. If you have not heard one of his many talks, then come along to the first meeting in the club’s autumn programme. It promises to be entertaining, informative and stimulating. The event will be on Thursday, September 13, in
Tuesday in term time. On Tuesday, September 11, we have a visit to the Holburne Museum in Bath to see two exhibitions, one of Middle Eastern art and one of Dutch masterpieces. After lunch at the museum we have a workshop on Dutch tile making. HENTON AND DISTRICT GARDENING CLUB
Pat Dyer, leader of the St Thomas’ Women’s Fellowship, hands a cheque for £200 to Trudy Bower, right, manager of the Fletcher House care home on Glastonbury Road, Wells. The presentation took place during a cream tea social at The Swan Hotel for members of the group, who raised money from a number of events throughout the year including a craft sale in the Town Hall, a second-hand book sale and a raffle at monthly meetings in the Church Hall. ‘We are pleased to be able to support a local cause that we can relate to,’ said Pat. Trudy said that the money may be spent on exercise equipment or the home’s sensory garden. ‘We’re really grateful,’ she said. Wells Town Hall at 7.30pm. Everyone welcome. Visitors £3. Children free. Paper cups for refreshment 20p, otherwise bring your own. For more details, telephone 01749 679182. Pip Harwood WELLS GROUP OF THE SOCIETY FOR DISABLED ARTISTS (SODA)
A display by Society For Disabled Artists members
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WE start our autumn term on Tuesday, September 4, from 1.30pm-3.30pm, at the Somerset Learning & Skills Centre in Portway, five minutes from the bus station. Meetings are every
HENTON and District Gardening Club members welcome back TV and radio horticultural expert Chris Beardshaw to their September meeting when he will be giving an illustrated talk, The Arthritis Garden – a beautifully planted Chelsea garden containing thought-provoking artworks, for which he was presented with a gold medal and The People’s Choice award. Chris knows from personal experience how challenging this crippling illness can become and actively raises the profile of research into its debilitating legacy. The talk, at 7pm for 7.30pm at Henton Village Hall on September 19, is likely to be extremely popular so to book a ticket – members £10 and guests £12 to include coffee – phone 01749 672084. Our website www. hentongardenclub.weebly.com has details of future meetings at this lively and friendly club. We meet at Henton Village Hall on the third Wednesday of each month at 7.30pm.
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wellsvoice
September 2018
35
n TAKE A BREAK This month: Battles
Can you find 57 famous battles vertically, horizontally or diagonally?
A V H S S R N E D U N B A R E U C R N
S R K P I O I C T M A C K A S O M M E
S A R A T O G A G W E B S S U R A T T
E B G B H K F L G Q A C A N L V R N O
Y N J U T L A N D L A D I N U S S V U
T O U R S Y L O A L O N D O N C T M L
C B S M F N K K O W E I P M D A O A O
TXT PERT
O A Z A Y I L N A V T L S J I L N R N
R S K N N A A C A M D E N E R V M N I
U T R A V Y N H V T Y J U N O I O E M
N I W A I P D H B U L G E A D M O D P
H A H P B R S M O H A C S W A T R G V
A L A M O E W V F Z D F A H A T T I N
B L I T Z S F P A T A Y A N Z I O E E
This month: Cooking
The numbers point you to the letters on a phone keypad
Across 1 748 (3) 3 2695 (4) 5 423 (3) 6 73786 (5) 10 68374328 (8) 11 5273 (4)
Down 1 743 (3) 2 8463 (4) 3 2328 (4) 4 929 (3) 7 74733 (5) 8 6836 (4) 9 92837 (5) 10 645 (3)
2 is A, B or C 3 is D, E or F 4 is G, H or I 5 is J, K, or L
6 is M, N or O 7 is P, Q, R or S 8 is T, U or V 9 is W, X, Y or Z
© www.123rf.com/profile_izakowski
SUDOKU
EASY for children
Each horizontal row, each 2x2 square and each column must contain all the numbers 1-4.
1 3
SOLUTIONS
3 2
WANTED
WHICH DOG?
L J S U O B B B G B N D Y N I Y S I W
It’s the brown dog at the bottom left and its partner in the middle which are identical.
P A T T R A V E N N A R Y C B K L C Y
TXT PERT
C G T T O B R U K M C O O L E R N M N
Across 1 Pit, 3 Bowl, 5 Ice, 6 Pesto, 10 Overheat, 11 Lard. Down 1 Pie, 2 Time, 3 Beat, 4 Wax, 7 Shred, 8 Oven, 9 Water, 10 Oil.
D I E P P E G Q R S B W E V E R D U N
Two of these dog pictures are identical – but which ones?
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wellsvoice
36
September 2018
n SPORT
Teams in positive mood as football club looks forward to new campaign WELLS City Football Club was founded on May 27, 1890, when a meeting was held at the Star Hotel in Wells. Their first home was Torfurlong, then named Torfairlands. Success was almost immediate with the club winning the first ever Somerset Senior League title, a feat repeated the very next season. The 1892/93 season saw Wells City enter the first ever Bristol & District League which was the forbearer for today’s Toolstation Western League, of which they are founder members and currently compete in Division 1. It was not until the 1893/94 season that Wells City moved to their present-day ground at Rowdens Road in Wells. Today’s Wells City FC is far removed from those early days; no train journeys to away games isn’t the only difference. The club now boasts three senior Saturday sides, a midweek floodlight U18s and a Sunday Veterans team along with junior teams in every age group from U7s through to U16s. Wells City 1st team is now under the managerial stewardship of Nathan Truckle and Tom Clifford-Jones. Along
with Steve Baylis as coach, they have assembled a relatively new squad of players to the club as well as a few returning favourites. “Last season unfortunately saw us relegated into Division 1 of the Western League and as a result we have decided to restructure the coaching set up and completely rebuild the squad which we hope will give us healthy competition and a strength in depth of which we lacked last year,” said Nathan. There have been a lot of positives in the six pre-season friendlies, starting with the trip to Worle where Wells came out comfortable 5-1 winners. It was a great first team performance with many new faces, and the goal-scorers on that day were James Bayliss (1) and a new signing from the latest crop of Burnham gems Ryan Stiles (4). Wells then narrowly lost 2-1 to Western Premier League side Bridgwater Town which highlighted areas that need to be worked work on. The goal-scorer was another Burnham signing, centre back Jack Spence. The third friendly saw Wells deservedly draw 1-1 against Southern League Division One
James Thompson, Chris Apfelstedt, Lui Rolli and Steve Apfelstedt in front of the home dugout before Wells City Reserves’ first home league game of the season against Nailsea & Tickenham Reserves, which they lost 3-1 side Larkhall Athletic. The goalscorer was Ryan Stiles. The team then entertained local rivals and Western Premier League side Shepton Mallet, where they battled to a 2-1 victory, scoring the winner in the last minute. Goal-scorers were Ryan Stiles and Liam Davies. The fifth friendly saw Wells play Glastonbury Town, recording a 2-0 win against a well organised young side. Finally, Wells hosted Vanarama National League side Truro City, where they matched their opponents going in 0-0 at half time, but Truro’s quality showed in the second half as they ran out 4-0 winners. It is noticeable even with these few games that the atmosphere
and performances have vastly improved within the side, and everyone is looking forward to an entertaining and enjoyable season ahead. Wells City Reserves are also under new management. Chris Apfelstedt has stepped forward and assembled his backroom staff of James Thompson, Steve Apfelstedt and Lui Rolli as physio. After the restructuring of the Somerset County League, the Reserves found themselves relegated to a newly formed first division which covers the whole of the county. The amalgamation of the old east and west first divisions means that the division is more competitive than ever and will surely not be far off
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wellsvoice
September 2018
37
n SPORT the bottom half of the Somerset Premier Division in which the team competed last year. “As a reserve team, our primary aim is to support the 1st team in their quest to bounce back from their own relegation,” said Chris. “However, within that, we are an amateur football team in our own right, playing in a good league, and our secondary aim is to consolidate ourselves within this division and then to compete at the top end of the table beyond that.” The pre-season saw a mixed set of results but ever improving performances, the highlight being a 3-1 win over a strong Pilton United team where no fewer than four 16-year-olds started the match. “The young players coming through the club will be both our biggest asset and biggest challenge this season,” said Chris. “It is my job to try and develop them from talented players at youth team level into players that can compete in senior football, which is a very different setting from the youth team stage requiring a different skill set and mentality. As a result, despite having, at times, in excess of 25 players to choose from, we are always looking to add to the group, particularly with players who have experience of senior football. “Anybody wishing to get involved with a club which is heading in the right direction should not hesitate to get in touch as new players will always be welcome at training.” Wells City A team, who play their home matches at Wells Blue School, were formed back in the early 1990s out of demand and
necessity to create a pathway for the junior footballers into the senior sides, and out of the sheer numbers of players at Wells wanting to play Saturday football. The A’s (as they are known) play in the Mid Somerset League and are managed by James Bevan, Nathan Phillips and Nial Caldwell. As with the Reserves and 1st team, the A’s have seen a large increase in numbers at training, numerous juniors experiencing their first taste of ‘adult’ football and those experienced players just wanting to enjoy their football locally and in an enjoyable and friendly surrounding, although the main aim of the A’s is to supply the Reserves and 1st teams with players ready and capable for senior football and sometimes at a moment’s notice. Wells City U18s, managed by Tony Crook, Mark Bromham and James Thompson, play in the Somerset Floodlight Youth League (SFYL) Premier Division. This season, with six new clubs joining the SFYL, this will be split into four divisions: Premier, North, Central and South. Wells City remain in the Premier Division and have been for the last two seasons after winning the South Division in the 2015/16 season. The U18s are the step from youth football into adult football for most young players, and are made up of three age groups, U16, U17 and U18. The U18s are entered into two cup competitions, the FA Youth Cup and the SFYL Roger Stone Memorial Cup, which they reached the final of in the 2012/13 season, and they were also runners up in the South Division that season.
PROTEC
All four sides generally train together on Tuesday evenings during the early part of the season and until all the leagues get underway or fixtures can be scheduled. To keep all these four sides operational takes a tremendous amount of work, all carried out by volunteers who generously give their free time to ensure that everything is fit for purpose and everyone can enjoy football at Wells. “Without these individuals the club could not exist in its current form,” said club chairman Steve Loxton. “A huge thank you to Pete Deverell our groundsman and his team of assistants, Neil Sheppard and Dave Collins, for the fantastic work they have continued to do not only on the pitch but around the entire ground during the exhausting and draining weather, although their perma-tans have developed greatly from this; Dave Green our club secretary for having been harassed constantly by the managers pre-season and all the
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work he does in preparation for every match day; and Richard Flenk and Dennis Compton on the gate. “Lastly and most importantly a huge thank you to all the club’s sponsors: 24/7 Drainage who have once again agreed to sponsor the 1st team – without their support it’s fair to say we might not be in the strong position we find ourselves in; The Swan Hotel and Protec for sponsoring the Reserves and A teams; to all the pitchside banner and matchday programme sponsors and for this season all those individuals who have sponsored a player, a league match or a football, who buy our 3 and easy match pool lottery every week… thank you. Your support of grassroots football and Wells City FC is greatly appreciated.” If anyone wishes to add their name to the list of sponsors, and there are various opportunities available, they should contact Steve Loxton on 07837 776160. n Next month, the focus will be on the club’s junior section.
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38
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wellsvoice
September 2018
39
n SPORT
Rugby club excited by next generation WELLS rugby coaches are excited to see their young players in action again when the new season kicks off in September. The club runs minis, juniors and women’s teams, three senior men’s teams, and for the first time in three seasons, will field a Colts team. “We’re really excited about the Colts this season,” said Ben Knight, a board member and 1st team player. “There hasn’t been a Colts team for two years so now we’re in a position to put one out on the back of the U16s last season. “They’re the next crop of lads coming through.” The production line of homegrown talent is vital to Wells, since few players of rugbyplaying age move to the city and the club does not pay to attract players from further afield. In fact, all 45 players who turned out for the 1st XV last season came up through the
A Wells Colts training session ranks, having previously played junior rugby for Wells. “It’s a great success story,” said Ben. “We’re very much reliant on what we produce. We have to rely on that next crop.” Head coach Peter Kennedy
said that giving young players the chance to play rugby is important to the club because there is not a lot of competitive rugby played at the secondary schools in Wells. “It is so critical that the junior section continues to do what it does,” he said.
“If there are lads or girls who want to play rugby, the opportunity is here.” The women’s section at Wells, overseen by Estelle Love, is another big success, with player numbers increasing all the time and one player representing England 7s and Bristol Rugby Club. The men’s 1st XV are targeting a top five finish in South West Tribute Western Counties North this season, said Ben, whose brother Alex is the 1sts’ captain. The first league game is at home to Avonmouth Old Boys on Saturday, September 1. The Colts will be playing in the Dorset & Wilts League, kicking off against Castle Cary Colts on Sunday, September 16. “We’re looking forward to the new season,” said Wells Colts head coach Alex Simons – adding that the club is always on the lookout for new players.
Wells A claim league’s top spot WELLS A team have secured top spot in the North Somerset Tennis League. The club’s leading men’s team had their place at the top of the league confirmed recently by the league chair. Having only just been promoted to Division One, the A team had their best season ever thanks to the commitment and determination of a dedicated band of regular players. Men’s captain Dave Mills said: “We’ve had a fantastic summer season and I’d like to thank all the players that where involved in making this an extremely successful year for Wells Tennis Club. The commitment from our regular players and our new members, some who have never even played league before, has meant it’s been tough, but ultimately worthwhile. Well done all.” In their final week of the season, Wells A team had a tough match away at local rivals Wedmore A, but a 9-4 win rounded off an impressive season. Wells B team secured promotion with second place in Division 5, Wells C team
From left, Seth Cunningham, James Edwards, Matt Goatcher and Jon Parsons of Wells A have to hope that other results go their way in order to avoid relegation to Division 6, and Wells D finished as league leaders in Division 7 and so will be promoted to Division 6 for next season. Their results show an increasing strength in depth and Wells Tennis Club will look to encourage more players who wish to participate next season. Particular praise must go to Colin Blatchford-Brown who captained the D team to top spot in Division 7 while giving new players their first experience of league tennis.
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Looking to join a Golf Club ? Why not join us for a courtesy round? Please call our Membership Co-ordinator who will be delighted to share the many benefits of being a member of Wells Golf Club and arrange for a partner to join you on your courtesy round 01749 675005 email secretary@wellsgolfclub.co.uk
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15. 09. 18 25. 11. 18 10 am - 4 pm THE BISHOP'S PALACE,WELLS
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2018
HUMAN NATURE