Wells Voice May 2025

GOOD AS NEW: Town Clerk Haylee Wilkins, right, with members of the Wells Monday WI who have helped restore two old metal signs at entrances to the Recreation Ground. Full story on page 6.

Wells Skatepark project gathering speed

Wells Skatepark Community Group report on a series of developments bringing the dream of a new, purpose-built skatepark closer to reality

Fresh Look, Same Mission

The charity behind the campaign has unveiled a new logo, designed around a bearing, the essential part at the heart of every skate, scooter and roller skate wheel. The updated design brings a fresh, energetic look that reflects the values at the centre of the project: movement, creativity, and community.

New Trustee Joins the Team

Architect Matt Green has joined the team as a trustee. Director of Architecture at local practice Salmon Planning, Matt has already been instrumental in shaping the skatepark design alongside the charity and leading UK designers Maverick Skateparks. His dedication and professional expertise have

been vital in pushing the project forward.

Planning Application

Imminent

Following several rounds of public consultation and community design workshops, final preparations are being made to submit the skatepark planning application by the end of April marking a major milestone in the campaign.

“We’ve come such a long way thanks to the energy of local young people, the support of families, and the community’s belief in the project. Now we’re closer than ever to making this happen.” James Glendinning, Trustee.

Fundraiser with DJ Collective 3SEVEN6 Fundraising is getting a boost thanks to Glastonbury’s rising DJ collective, 3SEVEN6, who are hosting a benefit night at

The King Arthur, Glastonbury, on May 24, in support of the skatepark. 3SEVEN6 isn’t your average group of DJs. Four friends, Charlie Chamberlain, Harley Kingham, Hayden Salter, and Josh Herridge, all raised in Glastonbury and bonded by beats, basslines, and a shared love for our very iconic 376 bus route, the welltravelled lifeline that runs between Street and Bristol through Wells and Glastonbury. The group recently made headlines for performing on the bus itself during Glastonbury’s carnival.

As well as events like this, the campaign’s biggest push is just around the corner:

Crowdfunder Launching

May 10

A community crowdfunder will go live on May 10 and we would love the whole community to get behind it. The campaign aims

to raise vital funds for the build, but just as importantly, to show how much local support there is when applying to larger national funders. Every pledge, big or small, sends a powerful message.

There will be plenty of unique rewards up for grabs, from local experiences to skate-themed goodies, so keep an eye out for the launch – we’ll be sharing details far and wide.

“It’s been a long journey, but we’re now on the brink of creating something amazing for Wells. The new skatepark will be a free, inclusive space for everyone – a place to connect, boost mental and physical health, and most importantly, have some fun!” Bev Smith, Trustee.

For up to date event and project updates, find us on Instagram: @wells_skatepark

To support or get involved as a business or individual, contact: wellsskatepark@gmail.com

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Hundreds call in at ‘Save the Brit’ event

HUNDREDS of people attended the drop-in event at St Thomas’ Church Hall on April 5 to learn more about the community bid to buy The Britannia Inn, on Bath Road, Wells.

The community share offer opened the same day, giving people an opportunity to play their part in trying to rescue what was a popular pub until its closure when the long-time landlords retired.

The East Wells Community Benefit Society (CBS) was set up last year with the aim of buying the pub – currently for sale with an asking price of £300,000 –and re-establishing it at the heart of the local community.

Members of the East Wells CBS were at the drop-in afternoon to talk to residents and answer questions. There were displays of photographs and stories about the Brit – as it was fondly known – and illustrations of the possibilities for the future if it does come into community ownership.

Among the documents available to study were copies of the Business Plan and Share Prospectus, and many people filled out an application form to buy community shares in the East Wells CBS or took one away with them.

Refreshments, including beer and cider, were available, and the merchandise such as Save the Britannia-themed T-shirts, mugs and car stickers proved popular.

Early estimates are that shares bought so far total about 11 per cent of the initial target

of £340,000 to buy the pub and start the renovation work.

The Chair of the East Wells CBS steering group, Councillor Theo Butt Philip, said: “The number of people who came to the event, and the number of people who have bought shares, shows how much support there is for this project and just how keen people are to have a local community pub once again. We have an ambitious target to meet, but we’ve got off to a great start.”

Shares are priced at £1 each, with a minimum investment of £50, and a maximum of

£25,000. The share offer is due to close on May 30, though the East Wells CBS may decide to extend the offer for a further month.

More information and an online share application form are available at www. savethebritanniainnwells.org

Wells City Council has added its voice to those backing the Save the Britannia campaign. In a letter to the East Wells CBS, Town Clerk Haylee Wilkins confirmed the city council’s support “in the community group’s endeavours to raise funds to buy, refurbish and reopen The Britannia Inn on Bath Road, Wells, as a much-needed resource to the community within the east of the city”.

News about the latest progress in the campaign has been reported widely both locally and nationally, including by the BBC, Metro and CAMRA.

Yourlocallegal experts

Top, members of the East Wells Community Benefit Society steering group who were at the drop-in session; and two views of visitors to the event

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COMPLAINTS

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

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

Andy and Sally Vallis at the Newspaper Awards, where Wells Voice was one of the finalists in the Hyperlocal Newspaper of the Year category

Wells Voice praised by awards judges

WELLS Voice was Commended in the Hyperlocal Newspaper of the Year category at this year’s Newspaper Awards.

The awards winners were announced at a gala celebration attended by Wells Voice editor Andy Vallis and his wife Sally at Hilton London Bankside on April 2.

Seven titles had been shortlisted in the hyperlocal category from a record number of entries from around the UK.

The judges said of Wells Voice: “An attractive, welldesigned publication packed with local news and advertising. A thriving hyperlocal with a strong voice.”

Andy said: “Wells Voice may not have won the award but I am immensely proud that it has been judged one of the best newspapers in the country. It has come a long way since I started

it eight years ago and I am very grateful for all the help that I have had along the way.

“This is actually the third year in a row that Wells Voice has been shortlisted for the award so it is gratifying to have this indication that the quality is consistently high.”

The category winner was The West Dorset Magazine, with Hackney Citizen Highly Commended. Other Commended titles were City Matters, The Bristol Cable, The Peckham Peculiar and The Worthing Journal.

In other categories, Joint Winners of the National Newspaper of the Year award were The Daily Telegraph and The Times; Regional Newspaper of the Year Winner was The Yorkshire Post; and Local Weekly Newspaper of the Year Winner was The Impartial Reporter.

Scan the QR code to order with us or order online at orientexpressofwells.co.uk ~ DELIVERY AVAILABLE ~

New escape room attraction opens

THE first teams have been taking on the new escape room challenge in Wells.

The attraction opened in April in a container at the Wells Self Storage site that has been filled with foliage to make it seem like a mysterious jungle. Participants are shut inside and have 60 minutes to escape by solving a series of puzzles.

The Enigma Escapes escape room is the brainchild of Michelle Bateman and Rachael Downton, who hope eventually to add one or two more rooms, all with different themes.

unexpected hiccups along the way, we tackled each one headon and made it through.

“With plenty of foliage, vines, paint, staples, glue and a fair share of hot chocolates, we’ve finally brought our vision to life and are so proud to welcome people into the experience.

“Rachael and I have poured a lot of time and energy into creating something we believe is a fantastic addition to Wells,” said Michelle.

“Watching our ideas come to life as we built the room was such a rewarding experience. While we did face a few

“Our first room is called Artifacts of the Cluzu Tribe, a junglethemed adventure filled with codes, riddles, various types of locks, and interactive elements that will really get your brain working.

“Each session will begin with a quick introduction to the different locks, a rundown of the rules, and how to request clues if needed. We’re really excited to share this with everyone and can’t wait to see how many teams manage to escape within 60 minutes.”

Bookings can be made at www.enigma-escapes.co.uk

Dementia Action Week initiatives

DEMENTIA can affect someone people may know in their family, socially or in the workplace.

So the Wells Dementia Action Alliance (WDAA) was set up ten years ago to promote and protect the physical and mental health of people living with dementia, their carers and families in Wells and surrounding villages, through providing support, education, information and practical advice.

“To mark Dementia Action Week we will be setting up

an unmanned stand in Wells Library from May 19-22 where people can pick up leaflets and information,” said WDAA chair Denise Denis.

“Come and meet our volunteers who will be out on the High Street on Wednesday, May 21, between 10am and 4pm.

“For more information see our website Wells Dementia Action Alliance – Working to make Wells a Dementia Friendly City or email wellsdementia. action.alliance@gmail.com.”

Quiz night in support of carnival

A WELLS City Carnival Quiz Night is being held at The Swan Hotel, Sadler Street, Wells, on Friday, May 30, in support of one of the city’s most popular community events, the annual carnival.

Teams of up to four people are invited to put their knowledge of trivia to the test in a variety of categories – from general knowledge and local

history to music, film, and more. Doors will open at 7pm, with the quiz starting at 7.30pm. There will be prizes for the top-scoring teams, as well as a raffle and mini-games. A bar and refreshments will be available.

Tickets at £5 per person can be bought at ticketsource.co.uk/ booking/category/qnzlowjgbovj, on the door, or by calling Louie Fabiano on 07990 878958.

WI members help restore old signs to former glory

THE old metal signs at the Wells Recreation Ground entrances by South Street and the Moat had seen better days when Councillor Denise Denis suggested a restoration project to Wells Monday WI Environment Group and Wells City Council.

The Wells Monday WI ladies took up the challenge and Wells City Council Town Clerk, Haylee Wilkins, and Matt Johnson (Outside Spaces Manager) gave their support to the project.

of the

attractive place to enter and enjoy, but the activity brought

together to meet each other and enjoy the general ethos of the

As a result of this project the WI have been asked to take on another restoration of signs at St

Activities taking place at library in coming month

EVENTS taking place at Wells Library in Union Street in May will include:

n Shared Reading: Shared Reading is on every Monday at 2.30pm, when people can share experiences using stories and poems. This group is open to all and free to attend. No need to book – email wlslib@somerset. gov.uk for more information.

n Ancestry Group: The group runs on the first Tuesday of every month, with the next session on Tuesday, May 6. Book a onehour session at 2pm or 3pm. Email wlslib@somerset.gov.uk

n Nintendo Switch Club: For children aged seven and up. Places available on Saturday, May 10, and Saturday, May 24, at 10.30am. Free of charge – booking essential – email wlslib@somerset.gov.uk

n Lego Club: This month’s Lego Club is on Saturday, May 17, at 10.30am. For children

aged five and older. Book a place to avoid disappointment: email wlslib@somerset.gov.uk

n New Group! Wells Writers: Aspiring writers who would like to have fun with writing exercises, share their work and gain supportive criticism are invited along to the library’s new writing group which takes place on the second Tuesday of the month at 2pm. The next session is on Tuesday, May 13. For more information email wlslib@somerset.gov.uk or info@cathedralcitywordsmiths. co.uk

n National Dementia Awareness Week: Members of Wells Dementia Action Alliance will be in the library from Monday, May 19, to Wednesday, May 21, with information on how Wells is a Dementia Friendly City. Meet them to find out more and pick up some information leaflets.

One

refurbished signs at the Recreation Ground

n NEWS

Students build group helpful new website

UNIVERSITY students have helped build a website for Accessible Wells, the community organisation working to improve access for disabled people to facilities and services in the city.

Under the guidance of Dr Jake Hobbs, Programme Leader, Creative Computing, students at the Bath School of Design (Bath Spa University) have built a comprehensive website which is now live at www.accessiblewells. org.uk

The website is just completing user testing, and Accessible Wells say all the signs are that it will be a valuable resource for both residents and visitors.

One of the testers, Rosie Obern, who uses a wheelchair and works part time at Morrisons, said: “Amazing work, really useful and easy to understand. It’s a really positive way to ensure disabled visitors are going to get the best accessible experience in Wells.”

Wells City Councillor Georgie Robbins, who will now take over the website as the Web Manager,

said: “I’m absolutely delighted with the feel and functionality of the site. The Bath Spa team

have done a massive favour for disabled people in Wells.”

The Creative Computing course at Bath Spa University aims to equip individuals with the initiative, creative skills and technical knowhow to deliver unique and compelling digital work. One area of focus is web technologies which made the Accessible Wells project a valuable cause for students to volunteer their skills.

Dr Hobbs said: “The Accessible Wells project has provided our students with invaluable real-world experience, allowing them to develop a website according to a client brief and navigate the complexities of client relationships.

“Volunteering our time and expertise to support the Accessible Wells campaign has been a rewarding experience, and we are proud to have contributed to such a meaningful cause.”

Pictured on the day the website was posted live on the internet are Theo van Hensbergen, Chair of Accessible Wells, right, thanking Dr Jake Hobbs and students Ethan Hunt and Iwan Parsons

Chapter 9.0

Concerns about proposed development

SEVERAL members of the public voiced their concerns at a city council Planning & Environment Committee meeting about the planned new development at the Wells Rugby Football Club ground at Charter Way.

Housing association Stonewater has submitted a planning application to Somerset Council to demolish the existing clubhouse and floodlighting and build 106 homes on the site.

At the meeting on April 17, eight people used public speaking time to share the misgivings they had about aspects of the proposals. Councillors also had concerns about the scheme, and voted unanimously to recommend refusal of the application.

Residents who spoke at the meeting mentioned the lack of provision for an extension to the Strawberry Line, the loss of amenity space, the effect on wildlife, the “over-development” of the site, and the limited design options.

Stephen Turner of the Strawberry Line Society said that the housing development as proposed blocked the extension of the Strawberry Line into Wells from the west. “If this goes ahead we will lose this route into the city centre forever,” he said, saying that a 5m boundary was required.

Club submits plans for new ground

A wheelchair-user raised the problem of the lack of wheelchair accessibility at the proposed homes, while Theo van Hensbergen of Accessible Wells suggested that the developer should be asked to make some of

but the new rugby ground application is not. Town Clerk Haylee Wilkins stressed that they are two separate applications.

The committee members voted to recommend refusal of the Charter Way application on a number of grounds, including design and appearance, loss of trees and hedge, inadequate parking provision and outdated

WELLS Rugby Football Club has revealed details of its proposals for a new ground and clubhouse at Haybridge.

The club is hoping to relocate from its current site at Charter Way, where it has been based since 1983. A planning application to Somerset Council for the proposed rugby club with

pitches and associated facilities and infrastructure says that the Haybridge site offers a larger and more versatile space.

The plans are for three newly laid rugby pitches and minipitches, car parking, and a new clubhouse with a large function area, a bar and skittle alley, and a fully equipped kitchen.

Council will consider proposal to prohibit pavement parking

WELLS City Council is to consider pushing forward with a proposal to make it an offence to park on the pavement on Sadler Street and High Street.

The proposal is aimed at ending the problem of lorries and vans, in particular, stopping on pavements to make deliveries. This can pose a danger to pedestrians and other vehicles, and damage the paving slabs which then become a trip hazard.

The suggestion of amending the Traffic Regulation Order (TRO) on Sadler Street and High Street will be linked to the removal of Blue Badge parking in the loading bays in those streets, to free up more space for delivery vehicles to park there instead.

Proposals have been drawn up by the city council’s Traffic Calming Working Group. Members of the Planning & Environment Committee agreed at their meeting on April 17 to take them forward for consideration by Full Council, probably at the meeting in May.

The Working Group suggests that the city council begins engagement with Somerset Highways on four points. As well as amending the TRO, the Working Group proposals are to

move the bus stop at the bottom of Sadler Street to the coach drop-off and pick-up area at the top of Sadler Street; investigate a pedestrian crossing at the corner of Sadler Street and High Street; and look at installing a pedestrian crossing in Princes Road outside the Tesco exit.

These proposals have been formulated as part of one of the ten community projects identified during the development of the Wells Neighbourhood Plan.

Trishaw city trips set to resume

THANKFULLY summer is almost upon us so it’s time to dust off Wells Community Network’s trishaw from its winter hibernation and spread the word about this asset for Wells.

“Our aim is to enable the lonely, isolated and those with memory issues or poor mobility to take a trip around our beautiful city,” said trishaw pilot Phil Payne.

“But many people don’t realise this is a free service.

“This is a battery-assisted rickshaw-style tricycle backed by a band of 11 merry pilots who do all the pedalling. And we are supported by numerous people behind the scenes who organise the rides and raise funds to keep the project moving forward.

“Last year we attended numerous community events in Wells including Singing for the Brain, the Sunshine Club, Memory Cafe, the Lawrence Centre, Heads Up, Almshouses, Moat Boat Race, Lantern Parade and Wells Carnival.”

Homes scheme appeal lodged

AN appeal has been lodged against the refusal of planning permission for the building of up to 78 homes on land at Glencot Road, Wookey Hole.

Somerset Council turned down the application last November on a number of grounds, including that the application site is outside defined settlement limits, and that the development would lead to the coalescence of Wells and Haybridge, both contrary to Mendip District Local Plan policies. Now Gladman Developments Ltd has appealed against the decision, informing the Planning Inspectorate that they intend to call five witnesses to an inquiry, which they estimate will last for six days.

The Working Group says that it has a much wider plan for traffic calming that it plans to take to Full Council after May.

In their planning application, they had said that the scheme “will create a well-balanced, sustainable extension to Wells, while maintaining separation between Wells and Haybridge”.

Almshouses Open Day

Saturday 21 June 11am – 4pm

Beautiful gardens and medieval buildings as well as the Guild Room and newly-renovated ancient Chapel

Lunches and home-made cakes and puddings

The trishaw pilots celebrating when they reached the landmark of giving rides to 100 people

A pedestrian crossing at the corner of Sadler Street and High Street has been suggested, and a relocation of the bus stop

Land purchase saves cinema from closure

WELLS Film Centre has been saved from possible closure after Wells City Council stepped in to buy the land on which it is sited.

Somerset Council has been selling assets as it tries to plug the hole in its finances, and decided to sell the land off Princes Road which is currently occupied by the cinema as a tenant. The city council has now agreed to buy the land to prevent the sale going to the open market and risk redevelopment.

The starting market price was £250,000, but the price agreed after negotiation between the councils was £150,000.

The city council says that the value of the sale, and ongoing arrangements of the tenancy, ensure little to no impact to the public purse, offering a longterm tenancy to Sally Cooper, owner of the Wells Film Centre, and allowing her business to plan for the future.

Mayor of Wells and Chair

of the city council, Councillor Jasmine Browne said: “The city council are delighted to be able to support local businesses and services. This is especially important when we have been able to do so without an impact on the council’s finances and therefore on the public pocket. We look forward to a long and successful working relationship with the cinema.”

Councillor Theo Butt Philip, Somerset councillor for Wells,

said: “Somerset Council needs to sell assets which, like this, are not used for delivering council services. But we know how important the cinema is to Wells, so from the outset we have been committed to ensuring the city council had an opportunity to buy the site before it was offered for sale more widely.

“I am delighted that Somerset Council and Wells City Council have been able to find a mutually beneficial solution, whereby

Wells City Council will purchase the freehold and safeguard the long-term future of this greatlyvalued Wells institution.”

The cinema’s owner Sally Cooper said: “I am delighted to have the support of the city council, in securing the cinema for the people of Wells. The last few months have been difficult to navigate with the uncertainty about what may happen.

“But the city council has stepped in where Somerset wasn’t able to and we are pleased to have secured a commercial arrangement with the council that serves us as a business and the council.

“We are really excited for the future of the cinema and will now be focusing on how we can improve the facilities to ensure that it remains a thriving local business for years to come.”

The film centre first opened in 1992, and has grown from a single screen to three screens.

All made in OUR factory

Wells Film Centre

Cycling marathon in aid of good cause

By Philip Welch

THE record for cycling from Land’s End to John O’ Groats is an amazing 43 hours, 25 minutes and 13 seconds.

We should point out that time does not include breaks for food, sleep and sheer exhaustion.

Now Chris Hall, a software designer from Wells, has committed to riding this 1,095mile marathon which includes 54,300 feet of climbing, though not to try and break the record. But for charity.

“I discovered the Lawrence Centre was having difficulties raising enough money to keep going. They provide support to older people with debilitating diseases and memory issues such as Alzheimer’s, dementia and Parkinson’s.

“They also aim to reduce social isolation and give family carers a break by providing support five to six days a week.”

His mum Kathleen suffered from dementia so helping the Lawrence Centre is personal for Chris as he knows how difficult it was for all concerned.

But there is one hurdle to be crossed.

“I am fit,” said Chris, “but not fit enough. So I am now working with a coach to get me tough enough physically and mentally. I have not done anything like this before.”

His wife Nicki, a WCN volunteer, will shadow Chris in a campervan so they can meet up at lunch and supper times.

“I am very grateful to Nicki for helping me organise the trip and her all-round support,” said Chris. Also helping is their daughter Myf – short for Myfanwy – who has designed the poster which promotes the trip. n To support Chris’s marathon ride for charity and learn more about it go to justgiving.com/ page/christopher-hall-le-jog

Announcement of guest speaker

CHRISTIAN Aid Week activities in Wells and area will include Dr Frances Clemson, Christian Aid’s Faith Communications specialist and former assistant professor at Durham University, speaking at the Cathedral Evensong service on Sunday, May 11, at 3pm. The Methodist Church will hold a Coffee Morning on

Still time to sign up for fundraiser

THERE is still time to register to take part in this year’s Mendip Mental Health Hike that will take place on Sunday, May 25.

Registration is open until ten days before the event and can be made via the link https://forms. gle/ccVuEiLicdjRjkwm9

Starting from 7am at Uphill (What3Words: joins.sake.plan), the hike will take walkers over the Mendip Hills and down into Wookey Hole. It is expected to take approximately 12 hours in total including time for breaks at each of the checkpoints.

The walk is a fundraiser

for the Heads Up mental health charity, based at South Horrington. Last year’s event raised more than £17,000. More than 30 participants have already signed up for this year’s hike.

There will be an afterparty at the Wookey Hole Inn from 5pm at which about 200 guests are expected to celebrate the day with the walkers.

Anyone who would like to donate can do so via the link https://localgiving.org/ fundraising/Mendip-MentalHealth-Hike

Half-term activities for children

THERE will be family holiday activities at Wells Cathedral on Tuesday, May 27; Wednesday, May 28; and Thursday, May 29, from 10.30am-3.30pm.

There is no need to book, just turn up on the day, and go hunting for a menagerie of animals hidden in the Cathedral

stone, glass and wood, have a go at haiku, and try fun, animalthemed crafts.

Free with adult entry. Children must be accompanied by a responsible adult; only assistance dogs are permitted. Further details at wellscathedral. org.uk/visit/families

Let’s plan your next holiday

Saturday, May 10, from 10am12pm.

House-to-house envelopes will be delivered during the week, and there will be a street collection in Wells Market Place and High Street on Saturday, May 17.

The focus of Christian Aid Week this year is Guatemala.

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Chris Hall training for his 1,095-mile cycle ride

Charley Robinson

Emma Glover

Beacon being lit in commemoration

WELLS City Council, St Cuthbert (Out) Parish Council and the Royal British Legion are inviting all local residents to the Cathedral Green on Thursday, May 8, to be together to mark the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe.

With events heralded by the Town Crier, Len Sweales, and accompanied by Wells City Band, residents will be able to gather on the Green from 8.45pm and participate in the national beacon-lighting commemoration.

The ceremony beings at 9.15pm with a specially composed proclamation from the Town Crier – an Oyez, Oyez, Oyez that will remind everyone present of the sacrifices made 80 years ago. The Chair of St Cuthbert (Out) Parish Council, Jacqui Zorab, will then read the official Tribute, being spoken

across the country, followed by Al McBride, Chair of the Wells Branch, Royal British Legion, reciting the Exhortation. This will be followed by the Last Post, and then the two-minute silence; Reveille will be bugled, and the Kohima Epitaph will poignantly end the readings.

In front of the Cathedral’s West Front, a beacon will be lit by the Mayor of Wells, Jasmine Browne, and the city, the parish and the nation will pause to remember the end of the Second World War in Europe, the approaching peace in Japan and the continuing hope for peace around the world.

n On May 5, there will be a living history archive display in The Swan Hotel, which is supporting the Royal British Legion in bringing the events of 1945 to life. More on page 15.

Scout Group to sing with choir

VE Day is to be commemorated by Wells Good Afternoon Choir on Sunday, May 18, at St Thomas’ Church, Wells, at 3pm (doors open 2.45pm), where they will be singing together with the 5th/7th Wells Scout Group.

The Wells Good Afternoon Choir, led by Ruth Jenkins, are busy preparing their programme for the concert which will support fundraising for the 5th/7th Wells Scout Group hut. The afternoon is

free admission, and there will be lots of opportunities for audience participation.

Grenville Jones, founder of the Good Afternoon Choirs, said: “It is going to be a great afternoon of music and we are absolutely delighted to be welcoming Wells Scout Group to St Thomas’ Church in Wells.”

Wells Good Afternoon Choir meets at St Thomas’ Church every Tuesday from 2pm-4pm.

Members of the 5th/7th Wells Scout Group

n

Knitted scenes depict Britain during war

AN exhibition about to open at Wells Cathedral depicts scenes of Britain during wartime that have all made by knitting and crocheting.

Following on from the success of The Longest Yarn, an exhibition of knitted scenes from D-Day, knitters from across the UK and beyond have created another stunning set of scenes, The Longest Yarn 2 – Britain at War.

The first opportunity to see the exhibition will be at Wells Cathedral from April 29 until May 10, meaning visitors will be able to see the exhibition on VE Day on May 8.

The Longest Yarn 2 at Wells Cathedral will feature 15 panels of knitted and crocheted scenes, all created by volunteers.

Organiser of both The Longest Yarn and The Longest Yarn 2, Tansy Forster, will be at Wells to open the exhibition, having just returned from the USA where the first exhibition is now on tour. Of The Longest Yarn 2 she said: “We’re amazed at the incredible amount of people who have seen The Longest Yarn, so now that it is touring America, we couldn’t wait to create a second set of scenes, called The Longest Yarn 2, which depict Britain during wartime, and features memories and stories gathered by our team. We’re so pleased to start our journey with this exhibition at the beautiful Wells Cathedral.”

The Very Rev Toby Wright, Dean of Wells Cathedral, said: “The whole team at Wells Cathedral is looking forward to welcoming visitors to see this incredible exhibition. The Cathedral is steeped in history, and we’re pleased to host the

exhibition to showcase the stories of Britain during wartime, which will no doubt allow every visitor the opportunity to reflect on the strength shown by our communities at that time.”

The Longest Yarn was worked on by 180 people, with knitters and crocheters from all over Britain, the USA, and contributions from makers in Australia, New Zealand, Canada and the Caribbean. Some scenes took more than 800 hours to complete.

Because The Longest Yarn 2 is a study of Britain at War, contributors are just coming from Britain and Commonwealth countries.

Along with the 15 panels being exhibited in Wells, there may be two life size depictions of people as well. The Longest Yarn has unveiled a first life-size character in the USA, a 101st Airborne Division ‘Screaming Eagles’ parachutist, his uniform faithfully recreated in knitting

and crochet by a French team right down to his dagger and gun.

The Longest Yarn 2 exhibition will be free with a Cathedral entry ticket, which also allows

free return visits for ticket holders for 12 months from the date of purchase.

u More VE Day news, page 15

There will be 15 knitted and crocheted scenes in

The Longest Yarn 2 exhibition at Wells Cathedral

Newly-hatched cygnets at The Bishop’s Palace with proud parent Grace. The exact number of cygnets was still being determined at the time of going to press, but there were thought to be at least seven.

Memories shared as anniversaries near

WITH the 80th anniversaries of VE Day and VJ Day approaching, two Wells residents have shared their memories of the Second World War.

“I was a 16-year-old in Malden, London, during the Blitz. When our Anderson shelter flooded we were given a strong metal table to hide under during the raids,” recalled 99-year-old Wells resident Aubrey Prutton.

Two years later he joined the RAF and finished the war as a leading air craftsman servicing Dakotas, Liberators, Spitfires and Hurricanes in India.

“We were sent to the countryside to small villages before the bombing started. Gosport near Portsmouth was a prime target. When our placements didn’t work out we returned home. Dad was an air raid warden and mum drove cars (a rarity for a woman) in the WVS. We had our own

‘We

were sent to the countryside to small villages before the bombing started’

full shelter, which we huddled in as the area was pounded,” remembered 92-year-old Margaret Armstrong. Later with her husband Stephen – an ex-RAF navigator – they taught for 20 years at the Wells Blue School.

As part of the 80th anniversary of VE Day and VJ Day this year there will be an exhibition in the Swan Hotel, Sadler Street, Wells, between 10am and 4pm on the Bank Holiday Monday, May 5. The exhibition will include memorabilia, models and Second World War stories of Wells residents, and a free 1940s-style buffet, served between noon and 2pm.

This exhibition is being organised by the Wells branch of the Royal British Legion and will most importantly include Aubrey and Margaret during the noon to 2pm period.

They will be available to chat to about their experiences during the war and their memories will be fascinating to all, as they share the hardship, humour and sacrifices they and their families made.

Anyone who would like to be part of the exhibition and has something to share, such as a story, memorabilia or memory, is asked to contact the organiser, Maria Gregg, at mgsd@live.co.uk

Celebration at community hall

A VE Day celebration is being held at Buxton Close Community Hall in Wookey on Thursday, May 8, at 3pm.

Cream teas and other refreshments will be served to residents from Wookey and the Wells area, including special guests from Fletcher House Care Home. There will be a tombola, raffle, Forties music and optional Forties dress. From 3.30pm local

school children can join in, with games and fun activities.

There will be a collection at the event with half of the donations going toward the purchase of a defibrillator for the Independent Living Scheme, and half to the Help for Heroes charity.

Anyone in the Wells area who would like to attend should contact organisers by emailing wilcoxlyn@yahoo.com

Margaret Armstrong

Aubrey Prutton had to hide under a table during the Blitz

Views still sought on Act to Adapt Plan

Wells is taking steps to adapt to climate change, as Councillor Denise Denis, Chair of Wells City Council’s Climate Change Working Group, explains

SOMERSET is experiencing increased risks from sea level rise and more unpredictable weather patterns that lead to flooding, drought and wildfires. After extreme events like floods or heatwaves, very often the focus is on resilience; being able to bounce back after the damage is done. While learning from these events and building resilience is important, as the climate continues to change these events are happening more often and are becoming more extreme and unpredictable as well as inevitable.

The climate will continue to shift for a long time to come, and we need to find a way to live with these changes. Taking adaptation

actions can help limit or avoid the negative effects of climate change and even maximise any positive opportunities it may present.

Somerset Wildlife Trust/ Somerset Rivers Authority have been working with Wells City Council and other partners including Sustainable Wells, Vicars Close, The Bishop’s Palace and the Cathedral in the last five months in a public consultation on The Draft Act to Adapt Plan. The online survey can be accessed on the Wells City Council website.

Your views are important to us and the deadline to respond will be May 5, 2025. The outcome of the consultation will be made known at the Launch of the Wells Act to Adapt Plan on Saturday, June 14, at 11am in Wells Town Hall which will be opened by Tessa Munt, MP for Wells and Mendip Hills.

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

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For Prices and Bookings contact the Town Hall Manager - Tel: 01749 673091. e-mail: thm@wells.gov.uk Website: www.wells.gov.uk

Cutlery knives help

40,000

tulips burst into colour

MORE than 40,000 tulip bulbs burst into colour this April at The Bishop’s Palace and Gardens in Wells – with a bit of help from some cutlery knives.

Back in November 2024, 20,000 new ‘Tulip sylvestris’ bulbs were planted along the ramparts bank, alongside the south lawn.

This new planting is in addition to the hundreds of existing bulbs carpeting the Quiet Garden, underneath the birch trees, including Tulip ‘Little Beauty’ and Tulip ‘Red Shine’.

The new planting was the vision of Head Gardener, James Cross, who said: “We wanted a golden yellow carpet of tulips and a beautiful scent which I think we’ve achieved. But it was a mammoth task with lots of volunteer help, including using cutlery knives to plant the bulbs and lots of slipping down

the steep banks in the winter weather.”

Entry to the gardens – and the tulips – is included with any standard admission ticket to the Palace.

Visitors learn more about the Wells Act to Adapt Plan at last year’s One World Fair in the Town Hall

Tulips on The Bishop’s Palace rampart

James Cross, Head Gardener at The Bishop’s Palace in Wells, among some of the bright blooms in the Palace gardens

‘Fire meets fire’ in controversial comedy

BOOKING opens for this year’s Wells Theatre Festival on April 30 and audiences will be spoilt for choice with a diverse programme of theatre performances for everyone, with audience favourites returning as well as new productions from some of the country’s most exciting touring theatre companies.

As ever, at the heart of the Festival is the community production of a Shakespeare play, directed and produced by husband and wife team Ros and Neil Johnson, with backgrounds at the Royal Shakespeare Company, the National Theatre and London’s West End.

The Wells Community Theatre Company is made up of local residents, some of whom have had no experience of professional theatre, but with Ros’ guidance and direction they produce extraordinary performances. Last year the Mayor of Wells, Councillor Jasmine Browne, declared that their production of Macbeth in the Bishop’s Barn was the best she had ever seen.

This year, two professionally trained actors return to the Festival to take the leading roles in one of Shakespeare’s most controversial plays – The Taming of the Shrew.

In the play, Lucentio loves Bianca but cannot court her until her beautiful, yet feisty and obdurate older sister Katherina, played by Jennie Harris, marries. But no one is brave enough to take her on.

Martyn Jessop plays

Martyn Jessop as Petruccio and Jennie Harris as Katherina in The Taming of the Shrew Picture: Guy Sargent

Petruccio, an eccentric gentleman from Verona, seeking a wife. He is loud, stubborn and boisterous, in some ways a male version of Katherina. He accepts the challenge of ‘taming’ her in return for a generous dowry. He is confident in his ability to exercise his male dominance over Katherina, but a battle of wills ensues and Petruccio soon realises he has taken on more

than he has bargained for; and in this interpretation of the Elizabethan drama, audiences will never be quite sure who has the upper hand.

Martyn Jessop trained at Northbrook Performing Arts College, Bristol Acting Academy and Bristol Academy of Voice Acting. He played Macduff in last year’s production of Macbeth. Other most recent credits include

roles in The Ragged Trousered Philanthropists (Merlin Theatre) and DarkGame (Netflix).

Jennie Harris graduated from the Academy of Live and Recorded Arts in 2021 where credits included roles in Fatal Light, Hamlet and Macbeth. For the Wells Theatre Festival Jennie has also played Beatrice in Much Ado About Nothing and Viola in Twelfth Night.

Rehearsals are now in progress and Martyn and Jennie are getting to grips with their complex characters and how to interpret them for a modern audience

“For me Petruccio can’t be diluted down for the sake of a modern audience,” says Martyn, “he must be as absurd as possible to highlight the themes of the play so they can be challenged.”

Jennie says: “I’ve focused on the quietness of Katherina, not necessarily her anger (although she is feisty)… I’ve come to learn that she is always looking for something: fairness, peace, passion. Petruccio sees this in her and in a way, it mirrors his personality too. We’ve spoken about them both as if it were fire meets fire. As challenging and somewhat troubling as some of the scenes are, I admire her confidence, authenticity to herself, her belief in love and hope for a change right through to the end of the play. She inspires that in me and will do for a modern audience.”

For tickets and further information about the Wells Theatre Festival, visit www. wellstheatrefestival.org

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Business award gives charity ‘renewed sense of purpose’

HEADS Up has been chosen as Charity of The Year in the Somerset Business Awards 2025.

Organised by Somerset Chamber of Commerce, this is the county’s largest annual black-tie awards ceremony, recognising companies and charities around Somerset for exceptional accomplishments across a range of fields.

This year was the 20th anniversary of the awards which were presented after a dinner in the Winter Gardens pavilion at Weston-super-Mare.

“I was truly honoured to accept this award on behalf of Heads Up,” said Bridget Harvey, Service Manager of the South Horrington-based charity.

“This recognition is not just for me, but for our incredible staff, trustees, clients, volunteers and supporters who make our mission possible.

“Our charity was founded

to improve the mental health and wellbeing of adults through empowerment, support, creativity and hope.

“Over the years we have faced challenges, but what keeps us going is the unwavering support from community and the incredible resilience of those we serve. We accepted this award with pride, humility and a renewed sense of purpose.”

Launch of number of new courses at Heads Up

HEADS Up is offering a number of new courses at the charity’s base at Upper Breach, South Horrington.

They include Beginners Hand Build Pottery, Introduction to Painting and Get to Grips with your Money, all starting in May. These Community Learning Courses are free for Somerset residents not in employment, education or training or with an

annual income under £25,000 per annum, or session payments from £20 per session.

Neurodiverse Me, a psychosocial education course designed by neurodiverse individuals to provide structure to exploring people’s neurodiverse selves, starts on Thursday, May 8, for four weeks (12.30pm-2.30pm).

There is also an Armed Forces Support Group that runs once

MENTAL HEALTH & WELLBEING HUB

Dementia Day Care Support – Wednesdays & Fridays, 10am-3pm Mental Health & Wellbeing Workshops – Tuesdays & Thursdays, 10.30am-12.30pm, 1pm-3pm, or ALL Day Outreach Visits – Monday to Friday, 9am-5pm Monthly Carers Groups – Wells & Wedmore

Block Courses – Creative Community Block Courses – varied days & times

Heads Up, Upper Breach, South Horrington, Wells BA5 3QG 01749 670667

info@headsupsomerset.org.uk www.headsupsomerset.org.uk Charity No: 801391

Shop in search of volunteers

CHILDREN’S Hospice South West’s (CHSW) charity shop in Wells is looking for volunteers who can spare a few hours each week to help out.

Area Retail Manager for CHSW, Julie Johnston, said: “Volunteering in our charity shops is one of the most popular ways to support CHSW and there’s a role to suit everyone, from sorting stock and serving and interacting with customers, to creating eye-catching shop displays.

“You can choose your own hours and gain skills to use for the future; it’s a great way to meet like-minded people and improve your mental well-being. And you’ll be part of a happy, friendly team and know that you’re making a difference to local children and young people with life-limiting conditions and their families.”

To find out more, visit the CHSW Wells shop in Queen Street or call the shop on 01749 677552, or visit www.chsw.org. uk/volunteering

a month on Mondays and will meet again on April 28, May 19 and June 23 (10am-12pm). It is an opportunity for veterans, serving members, family members, dependents and reservists to have a brew and banter and meet Somerset NHS Armed Forces Link Workers and others.

For more information, contact community@headsupsomerset. org.uk or ring 01749 670667.

Book with walk suggestions

A NEW book from Ordnance Survey, Short Walks Made Easy: Quantocks, Mendips and Somerset Levels, features ten leisurely walks ranging from two to four miles. Walks include Wells to Tor Hill, Ebbor Gorge and Wookey Hole, and Glastonbury Tor. The book is priced at £8.99 and is available now from OS’s shop.

Heads Up staff and trustees at the awards evening

Launch of branch of Reform UK

REFORM UK has launched a Wells and Mendip Hills branch, and will hold a series of public meetings during May in Wells, Yatton, and Draycott.

At Wells Town Hall on May 15, at 7pm, invited energy consultant Kathryn Porter will argue that current national energy policy is a threat to the economy and suggest the steps that should be taken to achieve abundant, cheaper energy.

Further meetings will follow at Yatton Village Hall on May 16 and Draycott Memorial Hall on May 22.

Paul MacDonnell, Chairman of the Wells and Mendip Hills branch, said: “We want to arrange more events that will cover all of the policy challenges facing Britain and our constituency – in energy, in education, welfare, and health, and in local government.

“We want independent policy experts to level with the public about just how great our challenges are. In turn, we are inviting the public to tell us what needs fixing in local and national government, and in public services.”

The Mayor of Wells, Councillor Jasmine Browne, and Consort Bill Nuttall pictured at the Mayor’s Civic Service in St Cuthbert’s Church on April 6. The presentation of the Mayor’s Awards took place during the event.

Most Bloom competitions paused

WELLS City Council’s Wells In Bloom Competitions have been put on hold for 2025, apart from the Schools Competition. This will be held in June, with the Awards Event taking place at The Bishop’s Palace on July 9.

The city council is undertaking a review of Wells In Bloom in general, and says it looks forward to developing and progressing a strategy for Wells In Bloom following the devolution process.

Family man who was very much part of community

IT is with great sadness that the family of Brian Clarke announces he died peacefully at home from Motor Neurone Disease on Sunday, April 20, aged 79.

Brian will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 55 years, Ruth, and their daughters, Fran and Jo, sons-in-law Ant and Simon and grandchildren Jess, Matty, Ame and Josh.

He worked as an Accountant and then University Lecturer in Accounts and Business Studies in Hampshire and abroad in Zambia, Kenya and Botswana for 11 years.

Brian and Ruth moved to Wells 23 years ago during which time he has been involved with the Almshouses, Twinning, Wine Society, Men’s Breakfast, Street Men’s Choir and Wells Tennis and Golf Clubs. He was very happy living in Wells.

As a wheelchair user for the past two years he has been

Brian Clarke, who has died aged 79

actively working to help raise awareness of accessibility around Wells.

He was an accomplished tennis and squash player, canal boating enthusiast and lifetime supporter of Shrewsbury Town Football Club.

From left, Paul MacDonnell, Chairman of the Wells and Mendip Hills branch of Reform UK, with Vice-Chairman Bernard Mealing and Secretary Steve Sidaway

Places in demand at running event

WITH one month to go until the Wells Festival of Running on Sunday, May 25, the event already has more runners booked on the 5k, 10k and 1.2k than the total number of finishers in 2024.

More than 450 runners have signed up to toe the start line in the Market Place and, with places selling fast, organisers have increased capacity for 2025 – which could make it the largest turnout in the event’s 20-year history.

Visitors to the city and locals alike will also be able to enjoy the family fun day element of the festival, organised by Wells Rotary Club.

Taking place on Cathedral Green from 10am until 2pm, local food, drink and craft stalls will line the Green including a stand about the new skatepark

plans hosted by the new Mayor of Wells Louis Agabani. Cathedral Green will also be the venue for sports day-style races for younger children, alongside an under 8s race, with no need to pre-book these events.

Runners not yet signed up to the 5k (min 13 years, 10.15am start), 10k (min 15 years, 11am start) and 1.2k (8-12 years, 10.45am start) should book in advance by visiting www. wellscityharriers.org.uk/wells

This year there will be pacers for the 10k, with volunteers running 40, 50, 60 and 70 minutes to help runners targeting a specific time. Prizes are also available, with a limit of one per competitor, with the prize-giving held on Cathedral Green at 12.30pm. A number of running YouTubers will also be taking part.

Care in your own home

Rock band Toploader in action at Studio 24 in Wells on Saturday, April 5. The band have had more than two million album sales and several top 20 hits both at home and abroad. What’s On, page 38

Members of Wells Oratorio Society pictured during the performance of Carmina Burana, Carl Orff’s powerful and innovative work, at Wells Cathedral on Saturday, March 29. The production featured an expressive arrangement for two pianos, percussion, a large choir and soloists.

Sharon Edmonds has been appointed the manager of the Wells markets for Wells City Council. She is pictured after being given some flowers by market trader Micky Boland of Micky’s Flowers. Picture: Philip Welch

New directors heralds new era at opticians

AN independent opticians in Wells is entering a new era under the leadership of new directors.

Millicans & Mansfield Opticians, situated on High Street, was created when Millicans Eye Centre and Mansfield Opticians joined forces in 2023.

Now two new directors – Lee Redman and Rebecca Donnelly –have stepped up within the team alongside David Millican, the founder and previous director of Millicans Eye Centre.

Lee is well-known by patients having been with the practice for 25 years as the dispensing optician and practice manager. Rebecca previously served as the clinical lead optometrist for a family-run group of independent opticians in Bristol, and as a medical optometrist at the Bristol Eye Hospital.

Redman and Rebecca Donnelly, new directors at Millicans & Mansfield Opticians in Wells

Despite the changes in leadership, the practice remains a family-run business. Lee is David’s son-in-law, while David’s daughter Sam is also an optometrist at the practice and is set to return from maternity leave in May. Rebecca, with her qualifications in glaucoma and

independent prescribing, brings a new layer of expertise to the practice, enabling the team to manage and treat eye conditions that traditionally would have required a hospital visit.

A consultant for leading

contact lens manufacturers and myopia management lens producers, she has sat as an expert on roundtables regarding myopia management and has delivered talks nationally and internationally on eye care.

She is also a member of the Policy Advisory Panel for the College of Optometrists, helping to shape the future of the profession.

She said: “I’m really excited to see what the future holds for Millicans & Mansfield Opticians and how we can continue bringing the best in eye care to the local community.

“Our whole team is passionate about making every appointment personal, ensuring each patient gets the care and attention they need. We want everyone who walks through our doors to feel valued and looked after, while also offering highquality eyewear that suits their style and needs.”

Lee

Celebrations for former ballet dancer’s 104th birthday

A RESIDENT at Crandon Springs care home in Wells, former ballet dancer Emma Pyecroft, has just celebrated her 104th birthday.

Emma was joined throughout her special day by family, friends, staff and residents to help mark the occasion with birthday cakes, cards and presents.

Emma has lived a rich and interesting life, including working in the theatre where she was an accomplished ballet dancer. Her dancing days were remembered and celebrated recently when a local ballet student performed for residents at the care home.

Megan, who studies ballet at the South West School of Dance, was presented with flowers by Emma after her performance and congratulated on her talent (see picture, left). Emma also has many stories to tell about her time working as an ambulance driver for the ARP in Sheffield during the Second World War, when she was aged 18. Her experiences have been recounted in publications and the national press.

Residents paint the play area fence

Fresh start at children’s play area

Millfield School student

Crandon Springs General Manager, Meg Cleal, said: “We enjoy hearing Emma’s fascinating stories and celebrating her remarkable and well lived life.”

RESIDENTS of the Cathedral Walk estate in Wells next to Morrisons have joined forces to paint the boundary fence around the children’s playground. It is the culmination of a big effort to freshen up the area, which they say has been blighted by vandalism, littering and dog mess left by inconsiderate owners.

Last month, Wells Voice reported on the installation

of a new bench planter in the playground to replace a tree that was damaged by young people swinging from it.

The directors of the Cathedral Walk Management Company have thanked everyone who has helped with removing graffiti, litter picking and painting. Now they are asking people to respect the playground, which is private property, maintained by the residents and at their cost.

Bringing Solar and Heat Pump Installation

n

Visits making history accessible to all

A WAVE of historical engagement and creative energy is sweeping through care homes in Wells and its surrounding areas, thanks to a unique partnership between Museum To You (MTY) and English Heritage.

This initiative, rooted in the creative and cultural idea of connecting people who would otherwise not have the opportunity to visit historical locations, is bringing the rich tapestry of local history directly to residents who may find it difficult to visit historical sites themselves.

MTY, a community-focused organisation dedicated to enriching the lives of older adults and individuals with learning disabilities, has joined forces with English Heritage to deliver a series of engaging and interactive sessions, bringing the stories and artefacts of sites like Farleigh Hungerford Castle to life within the comfortable and familiar environment of care homes, and The Lawrence Centre in Wells.

“The idea is to break down barriers and make history and learning opportunities accessible to everyone,” said Suzannah Cook, Founder of MTY.

“We believe that exploring our shared heritage can spark memories, ignite imaginations, and create a sense of connection to each other and lifelong learning. By taking these experiences directly to residents, we’re not only providing entertainment

Residents in local care homes and clients of The Lawrence Centre have been able to get hands-on with history thanks to the partnership between Museum To You and English Heritage

but also stimulating cognitive function and promoting social interaction.”

During recent visits to care homes in Wells and the surrounding villages, residents have been treated to a blend of storytelling, hands-on activities, and sensory experiences.

Inspired by the history of Farleigh Hungerford Castle, participants have explored replica artefacts, listened to tales of family scandals, knights and ladies, and even shot their own medieval-inspired long-bow at each other.

“It’s wonderful to see the residents so engaged,” said Emily Merchant, Activities Coordinator at Crandon Springs Care Home in Wells.

“Many of them have lived in this area their whole lives and have a deep connection to its history. These sessions allow them to learn, reminisce, share their own stories, and feel a renewed sense of connection to their community.”

The collaboration with

English Heritage provides MTY with access to a wealth of resources and expertise, ensuring the sessions are both informative and engaging.

“We’re delighted to be working with MTY to bring the stories of Farleigh Hungerford to a wider audience,” said Helen Kerry, English Heritage Education Visits Officer, Historic Properties West. “It’s incredibly rewarding to see the positive impact that heritage can have on people’s lives, particularly for those who may be facing challenges.”

MTY plans to continue its visits to care homes across the region, taking a diverse range of historical themes and experiences to residents. The organisation is also exploring opportunities to expand its programmes to include individuals with learning disabilities, further broadening its reach and impact.

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

Would you like to do something interesting and fulfilling? Would you like to make a difference to the lives of cats in the area? Then why not become a volunteer at our Glastonbury & Wells Cats Protection shop in the high street in Street?

Our charity shop is always busy, which is not surprising considering that there are loads of bargains, and the friendly, relaxed surroundings mean that people enjoy coming in to browse. Our manager Claire is always keen to recruit volunteers to help in the shop so if you like talking about cats and have a few hours to spare, please consider volunteering. Hours can be flexible. The shop is open seven days a week and a warm welcome is guaranteed.

Why not pop in and check it out for yourself? Or you can enquire by phone on 01458 443108. Our shop is our main source of income so by helping out as a volunteer you will be making a big contribution to help local cats.

Glastonbury & Wells Cats Protection

Interactive sessions have told the story of sites such as Farleigh Hungerford Castle

New High Sheriff offers Trust her support

MUSIC has been at the core of life in Wells since the 10th century when chorister voices were first heard in the Cathedral.

Race forward 1,100 years and the Choir now offers unrivalled opportunities for talented children to flourish in a world of music and song as a chorister through Wells Cathedral School, one of just five governmentsupported specialist music schools in the UK.

In a time of spiralling costs, it is more important than ever that the Choir can recruit young choristers on merit alone with no child being denied a place for financial reasons.

This is where Wells Cathedral Chorister Trust (WCCT) comes in, raising money since 2004 to remove financial barriers by providing additional bursaries.

“We want to ensure that this wonderful, unique experience is available to gifted children from all backgrounds,” says Arnold

Wills, Chair of Trustees.

Arnold was duly delighted that Janet Montgomery, the newly appointed High Sheriff of Somerset for 2025/26, has agreed to become a Patron of Wells Cathedral Chorister Trust during her term in office, recognising the important work of the Trust.

“WCCT completely aligns

Wills and Probate without the mystery

How do I choose the right executor of my will? I’m worried about putting a burden on someone or making the wrong choice that will have a negative effect on my children.

This is a very important question, and one that not everyone puts as much thought into as they should. Your Executor is the person who is going to handle all your affairs after you pass away.

Typically, your Executor should possess two essential qualities: they know you very well, and they are good at managing paperwork.

Going through probate or the administration of an estate can be complex, and it has the potential to get very uncomfortable very quickly. Knowing this, it’s best to pick someone who has the capacity to take on such a responsibility and is good in these types of situations.

Many people pick a trustworthy family member or a close friend to

be their Executor, but that isn’t the only option. I recommend that you choose someone who will get to know you well, earn your trust and whom is also a professional. This way, your beneficiaries will have a network to fall back on in the event they’re concerned anything untoward is happening.

Will Writing

with my focus for the year,” Janet says.

With extensive experience in education, she understands some of the issues facing the younger members of society and is looking to support projects and charities that help children to reach their potential through mentoring and development initiatives.

“A child from any background who has a choral talent now has the opportunity through the WCCT bursaries to pursue this, as well as receive an excellent education at Wells Cathedral School,” she continues.

“This in turn will continue the long-standing tradition of excellent choral scholars within the Cathedral.”

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Jim Emsley

Jim Emsley is a professional will writer and the Founder of Bristolbased ELM Legal Services. Have a question related to wills and estates? Send it to Jim at hello@elm-online.co.uk and mention ‘Voice newspapers’ in the subject line for potential inclusion in a future column.

The Choristers at Wells Cathedral; and Janet Montgomery, the newly appointed High Sheriff of Somerset

Picture: David Bevan

Picture: Mark Pickthall

Group organises next sustainability sessions

THE following Sustainable Wells events will be taking place in the next month:

n Repair Saturday at Wells Library, Saturday, April 26, 10am-12.30pm. Take along broken items for skilled volunteer repairers to mend if they can. Email repaircafe. wells@gmail.com or wlslib@somerset. gov.uk for more information.

boot sale but no money changes hands; everything is given away free to help unwanted things get reused rather than trashed. Arrive between 12.45pm and 1.30pm if donating items. Email sustwells@gmail.com for more information.

n Make and Mend in the Dodd Room at Portway Annexe, Wednesday, April 30, 6.30pm-9pm. Join in with upcycling or repairing clothing or other textiles. Take whatever you are working on or just go along and see what others are doing. Email sustwells@gmail. com for more information.

n Freecycle at Priory Road car park, Wells, Sunday, May 18, 1pm-2pm. This event is like a car

n Make and Mend in the Dodd Room at Portway Annexe, Wednesday, May 28, 6.30pm-9pm. Share or learn how to upcycle, repurpose, repair and revive clothing or other textiles. Email sustwells@gmail.com for more information.

n Repair Cafe at St Thomas’ Church Hall, Saturday, May 31, 10am-12.30pm. Skilled volunteer repairers will try to fix broken items taken along. Homemade cakes and drinks available too. Email repaircafe.wells@gmail. com for more information.

Wine challenge raises £14,000

A CALL My Wine Bluff event at Wells Town Hall on March 21 for The Lawrence Centre and Project Factory raised the amazing sum of £14,000.

Organisers said that the evening was great fun with lots of laughter and excitement. The panel consisted of two Masters of Wine, Neil Tully and Demetri Walters, and Masterchef Professionals and Great British Menu contestant and owner of the Queen of Cups in Glastonbury, Ayesha Kalaji.

Tom Killen of Mendip Auction Rooms was the MC and auctioneer for the evening. The 135 people in attendance enjoyed dinner and tasted a range of wines over the course of the event. The auction lots included a week in a luxury house in the South of France, dinner for four at Michelin star restaurant The Hide in London, and tea for two at The Goring Hotel in London. The evening was sponsored by King Lifting and Sandersons.

The panel and MC at the Call My Wine Bluff event in Wells Town Hall

n NEWS

Deep-rooted business continuing to evolve

Brownes staff member Gael Witor shares her enthusiasm for the garden centre, which has deep roots in the community

BROWNES is an understated, family-owned garden centre, located on the Glastonbury road, outside Wells. In fact, unless you have lived in the area for most of your life, you would be forgiven for not knowing it is there. There is barely even a signpost, despite having been on this site since 1974.

However that is only the beginning of the Brownes history. Green fingers have clearly been in this family since the 19th century, with Jon Browne’s great-great-grandfather establishing the first nursery on a large site in New Street. It was listed as a business in 1889 and over the years established a comprehensive seed catalogue. In 1946 a florist was opened on the High Street. This was prior to the purchase of the current site at Coxley which had been used during the war for cultivating fruit and vegetables. Brownes garden centre may not have blousy eye-catching banners… or jigsaws. But it does have staff that know a thing or two about plants. Wooden beds that are all made by Jon Browne, with the help of his sons, and if the Victorian greenhouse springs a leak, you can see Jon up a ladder, armed with new panes and yards of bubble wrap. Everyone loves this ancient glass house with its brittle putty and rusty pulleys, which houses an

impressive display of beautiful houseplants all year round. Even the little cafe on site is run by Jon’s sister, Sandra, and is

quirky handwritten blackboard as you enter the shop, offering advice on how to take a softer approach to gardening and to reduce the use of all harsh chemicals, as they are having a detrimental effect on life within our gardens. They are also cultivating a large number of lesser known UK wildflowers (more than 40 varieties) which have either lost popularity or been affected by modern farming practices. Native species are vital for biodiversity, including species that work well as natural fertilisers such as Birds Foot Trefoil and Sainfoin.

very popular with visitors to the garden centre.

Whilst Brownes has its roots very much in the history of Wells, it is still moving with these changing times. There is a

So if you pass a large silver watering can perched on the corner of the Glastonbury road, that’s Brownes Garden Centre. Turn around, because it is definitely worth a visit.

An old photo of the Browne family garden centre when it was based at Tucker Street; a seed catalogue from 1901; and wild flowers for sale at today’s garden centre

The Rev Sam Denyer helps carry the cross on Good Friday’s Walk of Witness in Wells that began at St Cuthbert’s Church

Lecturer receives award for debut book

A FORMER student at The Blue School, Wells, who is now a university lecturer, has won an award for his debut book.

Dr Joe Jackson’s book Kahlil Joseph and the Audiovisual Atlantic: Music, Modernity, Transmedia Art (Bloomsbury 2024) is the first book to examine the films, music videos, advertisements and installations of filmmaker Kahlil Joseph, who has collaborated with the likes of Beyoncé, Kendrick Lamar, FKA twigs, Sampha and Shabazz Palaces among many other popular musicians.

The foreword was written by Clive Chijioke Nwonka, Associate Professor in Film, Culture and

Society at UCL (University College London) and co-editor of Black Arsenal: Club, Culture, Identity.

Dr Jackson’s book has been highly praised, and was recently awarded Best First Monograph: Runner Up 2025 by BAFTSS, the British Association of Film, Television and Screen Studies.

He said: “I would like to thank The Blue School for always encouraging us to pursue our interests and curiosities from a young age, teaching me the importance of questioning whether the ‘default’ way of doing or understanding something is necessarily the most logical or straightforward.

“I should also thank many of the teachers – predominantly from the English, History, Philosophy, French and PE departments – for being patient when I misbehaved or caused epic disruption in class.”

The book is based on the work Dr Jackson carried out during his PhD years at SOAS University of London, and is dedicated to one of his supervisors, Dr Caspar Melville, who was injured in a cycling accident in 2023 and died in March this year.

Dr Jackson is currently working on a second book-length project about British music videos and representations of austerity.

Grade II terraced garden being opened to visitors for NGS

THE NGS Garden of the Month for May is Milton Lodge at Old Bristol Road, Wells, BA5 3AQ.

The Grade II terraced garden was restored to its former glory by the owner Simon Tudway Quilter’s parents, who moved here in 1960, replacing the orchard with a collection of ornamental trees, specimen trees and yew hedges.

n ON THE BEAT

Crossing over Old Bristol Road leads to the seven-acre woodland garden, The Combe, open on NGS days, a natural peaceful contrast to the formal garden of Milton Lodge.

The gardens will open for the NGS on Sunday, May 11; Sunday, June 8; and Sunday, July 6 (2pm-5pm).

There will be home-made

teas, and plants for sale (cash only).

Admission: £5, Children 14 and under free. Card machine or cash for admission.

To see more gardens open for the NGS, see The Garden Visitors Handbook, or the Somerset County Leaflet, available from local garden centres, or go to: https://ngs.org.uk

Work continuing to combat shoplifting

THE weather is warming up, the days are becoming longer. May is my favourite month of the year as I have my birthday in this month. I am looking forward to the 823rd Wells Charter Fair on Saturday, May 3, and hope that all who attend have a fabulous day.

Here in Wells your local neighbourhood team continue to work with local businesses large and small to prevent shoplifting, and where shoplifting occurs to identify and deal with offenders where possible. We have engaged with a local forum of business owners in order to identify those prolific offenders who steal low value items under £10 in the mistaken belief that because of this low value, it would not be in the public interest for

The

latest from the

local policing team with PC Darren Pearson

the police to deal with them criminally. This is not the case in Wells, if an offender is

identified we will deal with them robustly using various sanctions, Community Resolutions and Adult Conditional Cautions for those who have not been in trouble before, and formal court sanctions for prolific offenders. We can also use AntiSocial Behaviour legislation which initially is not criminal, Community Protection Warning (CPW) followed by a Community Protection Notice (CPN). However if the offender then continues with their behaviour and breaches the conditions of the CPN this becomes a criminal offence in its own right, and on conviction a Criminal Behaviour Order (CBO) can be applied for which will impose restrictions on them for a minimum of two years. If found guilty of a

breaching a CBO a court could impose a maximum sentence of five years’ imprisonment or a fine, or both for an adult.

I encourage the reporting of all thefts no matter how minor in order to attain an accurate picture of the scale of shoplifting in Wells. If you witness someone stealing, please inform staff / security in the store so they can deal appropriately, and we the police may need your help as a witness to the offence.

Your local neighbourhood team has reduced recently with some officers moving on. We currently have two PCs and a new PCSO, Mel, who is an experienced officer who has moved across from Glastonbury and will be introducing herself in next month’s issue.

Dr Joe Jackson with his primary PhD supervisor Professor Lindiwe Dovey after receiving his award at the BAFTSS Conference that recently took place at the University of Warwick

Milton Lodge garden

Joint effort to clear up litter

COUNCILLOR Deborah Orrett is organising a city centre communal litter pick on Friday, May 23, from 9.30am to 11am. The meeting place will be Wells Town Hall for anybody who might be interested in taking part. The regular litter pick will take place over the same weekend of May 23, 24 and 25. For more details, contact Cllr Orrett: d.orrett@wells.gov.uk

Band concert

MAY the 4th be with you… Wells City Band’s spring concert will have an ‘out of this world’ theme when it takes place at Cedars Hall on Sunday, May 4, from 3.30pm-5.30pm. The concert will also feature Lions Brass for Youth, and there will be pre-concert entertainment from Wells City Band Brass Academy. Tickets: cedarshallwells.co.uk

Valley Morris Men – married Naomi Deutsch at Wells Town Hall on April

Bike sale for Foodbank is wheel success

MILLSTREAM Workshop, a community group based in Henton, near Wells, held a bike sale with the support of the team at Wookey Hub, raising £785 for Wells Foodbank.

Millstream Workshop service and refurbish donated bicycles, which are then either donated to local charities for people in need or sold with the profits going to the charities.

After months of work getting bicycles ready, the group arranged a sale at the Wookey Hub cafe and shop in Wookey, selling all 16 bikes they had taken and one more besides, having made a trip back to the workshop to fix up another on the day.

This project has been well supported by the community, with many customers paying more than the asking price and donating their old bikes back to the group. As well as providing a hospitable venue for bike sales, the team at Wookey Hub has offered invaluable support by raising awareness.

Andy Healey-Childs from Wookey Hub said: “We take donations to enable us to deliver fresh food requested weekly by Wells Foodbank that we get at wholesale prices. Before this sale we had completely run out of the funds so this is a great boost.”

James Duckenfield from Millstream Workshop said: “I think as a group we are all looking to be of some small service to our community, and a really obvious local need is the Wells Foodbank. We enjoy the social aspect of getting together catching up but doing things to

help others is a great reason to get together.

“Giving someone a bike works in two ways, the obvious one is mobility and the health benefits that come with it, but we hope it also says your community thinks that you are worth helping and supporting.”

As well as the impact for the local community, this project also provides environmental benefits by giving a new lease of life to bicycles that might otherwise be scrapped.

Steve Say from Millstream Workshop said: “A good proportion of the bikes we take on are uneconomic for professional repair and would likely end up scrapped if we didn’t refurbish them. Giving things a second life is a great way to reduce impact on the world.”

Millstream Workshop originally formed in 2021,

initially creating metal projects, such as reindeers out of horseshoes. In March 2024, the team were able to broaden their scope thanks to a bursary by Lions International to buy some welding equipment and sets of bike repair tools, as part of one of Millstream Workshop’s youngest members, Toby, being a Lions Young Ambassador for the South West.

Since they began, the team have raised more than £6,800 for Wells Foodbank and have donated 24 bikes via the YMCA, Wells Foodbank and other routes.

Sarah Mechen, Trustee and Volunteer at Wells Foodbank & Furniture Storehouse, said: “The Wells Foodbank is an independent charity funded by the generosity of donations from local individuals and businesses. So the Foodbank is very grateful for the recent bike sale by Millstream Workshop, raising a whopping £785.

“Heartfelt thanks go to the team who selflessly give their

time and skills to support us; not only the constant stream of money but also providing bikes for our clients. Such incredible kindness.”

Residents at the YMCA’s Spencer House accommodation in Wells are among those who have benefitted from Millstream Workshop’s provision of bikes to the local community.

The Spencer House support team said that the bicycles have become essential for adult residents, enabling them to navigate the local area, commute to work, and enjoy leisurely rides, and added: “By offering refurbished bicycles, the workshop has helped alleviate transportation challenges for many. This support not only promotes mobility but also encourages a healthier lifestyle.

“Community-driven projects like Millstream Workshop highlight the power of local collaboration in enhancing the quality of life for residents.

Spencer House residents are truly grateful for the Millstream Workshop’s continued efforts in connecting with the broader community.”

For more details about Millstream Workshop, including how to support them, find them on Facebook (search Millstream Workshop) or email millstream. workshop@gmail.com

While donations are very much appreciated, not all bicycles are suitable for this project so they ask that a photo is sent first so they can gauge whether or not they can accept it.

Satisfied customer Bailey from Haybridge peddling off on her new bike

Pictured at the bike sale are, from left, Peter Roberts, Toby, James and Ed Duckenfield, Andy and Annette HealeyChilds, Steve Say, and Tony Newton

Return of miniature artworks exhibition

THE Hilliard Society of Miniaturists’ annual exhibition has been taking place in Wells for more than 40 years. The display of miniature artworks will be returning to Wells again this year with an exhibition in the Town Hall from June 7-14 (closed June 8).

The Hilliard Society was founded by Sue Burton, a gallery owner in Wells, and miniaturist Rosalind Pierson, its inaugural exhibition being held in Wells in May 1982. The name of the society was chosen as Nicholas Hilliard was a prominent West Country Elizabethan miniaturist portrait painter who was born in Exeter in 1547.

The art of miniature painting is hundreds of years old, originally being a way of recording someone’s portrait before photography was

possible. Miniature paintings and drawings are generally no larger than 4.5 x 6 inches, and sculptures under 10 inches.

For people who would like to learn more, the Hilliard Society is offering a unique opportunity to take part in a full day’s Miniature Painting Workshop, to introduce the technique of miniature painting to beginners, as well as helping artists who may already have some experience but would like to brush up on their skills or try out new ideas. There will be experienced, award-winning miniaturists on hand to tutor.

The Workshop will take place on June 7, from 10am-4pm in the Town Hall, Wells. The fee for the day is £50. To reserve a place and for further information, email info@hilliardsociety.org or call 07910 504882.

THE UK-wide results from this year’s Big Garden Birdwatch have revealed the Starling has dropped from third to fourth place as the lowest number ever was recorded.

In Somerset, whilst Starlings are still in decline, they have retained third position in the yearly rankings. House Sparrow held on to the UK top spot once again and Blue Tit remains at number two, with Woodpigeon and Blackbird making up the other top five most recorded species in UK gardens.

Nearly 13,300 residents took part in the big weekend in Somerset, and the top three birds recorded across the county were House Sparrow, Blue Tit, and Starling.

The Big Garden Birdwatch is a large-scale citizen science survey that started in 1979, providing an annual snapshot of the status of garden birds in the UK.

Works by Bill Mundy, top, and Wendy Sabine

n MESSAGE FROM THE MP

Clear that volunteering is thriving in Wells

Thoughts of Wells and Mendip Hills MP

Bristol-based The Window Hub progresses on green goals

Tessa Munt

Bristol-based home improvement company, The Window Hub, is aiming to plant 3,000 trees over the next three years as part of its commitment to being a climate conscious business.

The trees will be planted at Boyd Valley Lake, which is located in Bitton. This is in addition to continuing its policy of recycling all old frames so they don’t end up in landfill.

IN April, amongst other local events, I attended the Mayor’s Civic Service and Presentations, where our community and those who serve were recognised with a joyful service of celebration in a packed St Cuthbert’s Church. It’s good to know that volunteering is thriving in Wells, which itself has just been awarded ‘Best Inland Town in the UK’ (although we know we’re the best City!).

The window installation company was launched during lockdown in 2020 by seasoned industry professional Danny, who wanted to create a business that was “built on quality rather than greed”.

Tess Munt, right, with Mayor Jasmine Browne at the Mayor’s Civic Service and Presentations

The Immigration Minister asked to meet me after I raised the case of a local man granted a visa despite making a fraudulent application – about which the Home Office was twice made aware. It is vital that those who want to stay in this country live within the law.

prevent the use of mobile phones in prisons. I don’t believe mobile phones are needed by anyone in prison – inmates or staff – and will continue to press Ministers on this.

you know what? It is so easy to be amazing if you don’t cut corners.”

I also attended meetings about housing developments planned on the outskirts of Wells, met with Highways officers and the Accessible Wells group to progress works on improving paths and pavements for all – including the less mobile among us – and joined Wells St John Ambulance to wish ‘au revoir’ to Jane Lawrence, who

has served valiantly for several decades.

In fact, a new showroom is scheduled to open this month.

From humble beginnings, The Window Hub now operates from a head office and showroom in Staple Hill in Bristol with offices, showrooms and installation depots across the South West.

Danny launched The Window Hub because he wanted to be much more than just a double glazing company.

“We know that choosing new windows and inviting someone

In Parliament, I spoke out in support of a group of 916 people who contracted Hepatitis C as a result of the infected blood scandal but have been denied compensation. This is outrageously unfair, and I expect to meet a Cabinet Office Minister to hear why this group has been dropped from the scheme.

Back in 2003, the Government recognised British Sign Language (BSL) as a language. This is rightly celebrated annually and with a new BSL GCSE option available, I’m pressing for BSL to be taught in all schools from a young age, making the case for BSL to be a second language for every child.

into your home can be stressful, so we have introduced as many initiatives as possible to be fair and reasonable in our approach to give our customers the best experience possible,” he said.

“Sales begin and end with treating customers properly. And

Tuesday is my Justice Committee day. I’ve joined roundtable discussions on how we make the prison system fit for the future, focusing on inmates with lived experience of ADHD and other neurodiverse conditions, food in women’s prisons and using technology to

West & South Wales in the final of the industries Prestigious G24 Awards!

0117 3134 862 Exeter: 01392 642 634

Abbot: 01626 932 964

And the Window Hub has the customer reviews to prove it –90% of reviews for The Window Hub on Trustpilot are for five stars, with customers celebrating the company’s professionalism, friendliness, tidiness, and attention to detail.

The hard work of Danny and his company was also recently recognised and commended, with The Window Hub being named the ‘Best in the South West’ at the G24 Awards last year.

The world can often feel turbulent and unpredictable. Yet, as I visit the different corners of this constituency, I am reminded of the beauty of our natural world and the kindness of people. I really believe one of the most important parts of being your MP is supporting you with the issues you face. If I can be of any assistance, or you wish to share your views, please don’t hesitate to contact me (details at the top of the page).

In 2025, The Window Hub will grow to cover domestic homes between Cheltenham in Gloucestershire and Lands End in Cornwall.

For more information, please visit TheWindowHub.co.uk.

I’ll be holding my regular ‘surgery’ on Saturday, May 3, from 8.30am-10am at Coffee #1 in Wells High Street. No appointment is necessary – it’s first come, first served. If you can’t come to meet me, I’ll come to see you.

Legal guidance with Chubb Bulleid

TePe’s Best Workplaces award, from left: Galina HorwoodGarina, Management Accountant; Lauren Martinez, HR Business Partner; Robert Bartlett, General Manager; Caroline Addis-Mitchell, Head of Finance & HR; Adrian Thornberry, Head of Operations; Laura Thompson, Clinical Education Manager; Steve Hargett, Head of Sales – Dental Practice; Michaela Andrew, Head of Sales – Retail; Miranda Pascucci, Head of Clinical Education; and Sarah Madeley, Interim Head of Marketing

Workplace accolade for oral health firm

WELLS business TePe has received recognition with inclusion in a list of the UK’s Best Workplaces for 2025.

The UK subsidiary of the Swedish oral health company has been given the accolade based on employee feedback and its commitment to sustainability.

The UK’s Best Workplaces shortlist is created by the Great Place To Work workplace culture organisation. TePe was one of 100 to feature in the Small Business Category. Judges were impressed with TePe’s survey results, which revealed that 97 per cent of employees consider it a great place to work; the national average is 54 per cent.

With 32 employees based at its UK headquarters in Wells, TePe has an impressive staff retention rate, with team members averaging six to ten years of service. Nearly one in ten employees (nine per cent) have been with the company for more than 11 years.

Lauren Martinez, HR Business Partner, said: “We are delighted to be recognised as one of the UK’s Best Workplaces 2025. At TePe, we strive to create a supportive, inclusive and inspiring environment where our team feels valued. A huge thank you to everyone at TePe for making this a workplace people genuinely love to be part of.”

Choir leader receives major award

CHOIR leader and musician Grenville Jones has been awarded the UK Excellence Awards 2025 Patron’s Award for Individual Achievement by the British Quality Foundation Patron, HRH the Princess Royal. Grenville, who lives in Bath, received the award at a ceremony at the Bobby Moore Suite at Wembley Stadium for his work with the Songs&Smiles charity Golden-Oldies. He launched the charity in 2007. It was based on

bringing isolated, lonely people together to enjoy fun community singing sessions in church halls, community rooms and libraries across South West England and Wales. Alongside the charity work, he has led the development of community choirs which now have 1,600 singers.

Golden-Oldies sessions in Wells take place in the Methodist Church Hall, while Grenville’s Wells Good Afternoon Choir meets at St Thomas’ Church.

Are you a worker?

By Lucy Milton-Downes

THE Employment Rights Act 1996 recognises three categories of employment status: “employees” who work under a contract of service, “workers” who are self-employed but provide their services for somebody else’s business, and “selfemployed” who carry out business for themselves and contract with clients directly.

Employees have the full range of employment rights and the self-employed have no employment rights. Workers have a limited set of rights, as confirmed in the 2021 Supreme Court case of Uber BV v Aslam (known as “The Uber Case”).

The Uber Case provided clarity for businesses where the assumption for many who contracted with selfemployed individuals to carry out work or services for their business, was that those individuals were not entitled to rights such as the minimum wage, pension contributions and holiday pay, simply because of their self-employed status.

Uber argued that their contracts characterised their

workers as self-employed. The Supreme Court disagreed that this should be the starting point when determining employment status. It held that the determination of “worker” is a question of statutory, and not contractual, interpretation, and that the reality of the working relationship should take precedence over the written agreement provided by the business.

‘If the individual is “subordinate and dependent” on a business, they are a worker regardless of how their contract classifies them’

The key question being that if the individual is “subordinate and dependent” on a business, they are a worker regardless of how their contract classifies them. If you would like clarification as to your employment status, or that of your contractors, please contact Lucy Milton-Downes or Gemma McMillan in our Employment Team, at Chubb Bulleid Solicitors. n Chubb Bulleid have offices in Wells, Street and Somerton. Phone 01749 836100.

Celebrating

n IN DAYS GONE BY

With Clare Blackmore

Items for sale give glimpse of life in 1904

AT the end of the 19th century/ beginning of the 20th century if there was a house move or house clearance, very often all the household items would be sold. This was either because the householder had died or they were moving away from Wells.

There were no lorries to move large loads of furniture, and Mr Robert Bowring was the auctioneer, surveyor, land agent and estate agent, also a JP and a Wells City Councillor who lived at Polsham House, near Wells, and who had an office at 25 Market Place.

Mr Bowring was also, amongst other things, a Freemason, Vice President of the Wells Athletics Union, a member of the Mid Somerset Agricultural Society, a manager of Priddy School, a member of the County Education Committee, and Chairman of the St Cuthbert Out Parish Council. A man of many parts, and it is said that he liked to fish for trout in the stream at Coxley and that he was a good shot.

This was an advertised house sale in 1904 and is an interesting insight in to the household items inside a house at that date:

Sale of household furniture, bed and table linen, glass, china and other effects from 7 Chamberlain Street comprising:

HALL: Iron umbrella stand, marble top hall table, deal table, two fibre mats, hearth rug, carpet sweeper.

DINING ROOM: Six mahogany frame chairs in horsehair, mahogany frame lounge chair in

Moving house. Some people moved what little they had by horse and cart.

horsehair, mahogany chiffonier, mahogany table, cane seat rocking chair, coal vase and shovel, fender and fireirons, hearth brush, pier glass in gilt, mahogany frame armchair in horsehair, stained deal writing table with three drawers, carpet to room, hearthrug.

DRAWING ROOM: Mahogany table, drawing room suite consisting of four oak frame chairs in tapestry, lounge in ditto, two tapestry armchairs, oak coal vase and scoop, brass mounted fender and fireirons, oak overmantel with bevelled glass panels, mahogany side table, walnut occasional table, tapestry table cloth, Brussels carpet, hearthrug.

LANDING: Painted hanging cupboard, two clothes baskets, linen basket, three mats, hearthrug.

BEDROOM 1: Large stained deal wardrobe, marble top washstand, water bottle, towel rail, water can, mahogany chest of drawers, mahogany dressing table and glass, mahogany commode, fender, three cane seat chairs, Brussels carpet, hearthrug and mat, brass mounted iron French bedstead, spring mattress and felt cover, wool mattress, feather bed cover, bolster and two pillows, quilt.

BEDROOM 2: Mahogany chest of drawers, mahogany dressing table and glass, mahogany washstand, water bottle, towel rail, two cane seat chairs, brass mounted iron French bedstead, two pillows, quilt, wool mattress, fender and shovel.

STUDY: Deal table, armchair, four mahogany chairs in horsehair, painted chest of drawers, two bookshelves with cupboard under, carpet, hearthrug.

BEDROOM 3: Painted washstand, washstand ware, deal chest of drawers, blanket box, Brussels carpet, iron bedstead, counterpane.

BATHROOM: Two pieces linoleum, sponge bath, folding chair, walnut four tier whatnot, feather bed, pillow, counterpane, two dressing glasses, child’s iron cot.

KITCHEN: Deal table, two kitchen chairs, lamp, hot water and other jugs, trays, meat saw and mincer, spring balance, two

clothes horses, kitchen fender and fireirons, coal scuttle, three kettles, kitchen clock, scales and eight weights, enamelled saucepans, porridge pot, sundry washups, brushes and culinary articles.

PANTRY: Mangle by Barnes and Son, deal table, large galvanised tub, two small washing tubs, two water bottles, two salts, glass butter dish, part dinner service (27 pieces), six pie dishes, two enamelled dishes, eight basins, four large meat dishes, dinner service (52 pieces), reading lamp and shade, sundry pickle jars, tin moulds etc.

CHINA CUPBOARD: Bread pan, bread board and knife, five large handled table knives, 11 small kitchen knives, crumb brush and tray, plate basket, six plated dinner forks, seven small dinner forks, two pairs of sugar tongs, one dozen plated tea spoons, six dessert spoons, china toast rack, white and gold tea service (31 pieces), six tumblers, plated cruet set, coffee pot, three tea pots, small lamp, butler’s stand.

BED AND TABLE LINEN: Two quilts, 12 blankets, three counterpanes, one coloured quilt, 18 twill sheets, six linen table cloths, 27 pillow slips, 11 toilet covers, six bed curtains, three pairs of white muslin curtains, one pair cream linen curtains, brass fittings for curtains, 23 towels, sundry bed curtains, tea cloths, dusters etc.

Picture: Wells & Mendip Museum

Let’s Talk About It: Why Dying Matters – Now More Than Ever

Let’s Talk About It: Why Dying Matters – Now More Than Ever

Dying

Matters Awareness Week, 5th – 11th May 2025

Dying Matters Awareness Week, 5th – 11th May 2025

For many of us, conversations about death and dying are something we avoid, unsure of what to say or how to start. But should we really keep it off the table?

For many of us, conversations about death and dying are something we avoid, unsure of what to say or how to start. But should we really keep it off the table?

Each May, Dying Matters Awareness Week gives us a gentle but vital nudge: it’s time to talk. To talk honestly, openly, and without fear about dying, death, and bereavement. These conversations— though sometimes uncomfortable—are some of the most meaningful we can have. They help ensure that we, and those we love, are prepared and supported when the time comes.

Each May, Dying Matters Awareness Week gives us a gentle but vital nudge: it’s time to talk. To talk honestly, openly, and without fear about dying, death, and bereavement. These conversations— though sometimes uncomfortable—are some of the most meaningful we can have. They help ensure that we, and those we love, are prepared and supported when the time comes.

At its heart, Dying Matters Week is about giving ourselves permission to explore what matters most at the end of life—long before we are faced with difficult decisions. It’s about knowing our options, making our wishes known, and giving our families peace of mind.

At its heart, Dying Matters Week is about giving ourselves permission to explore what matters most at the end of life—long before we are faced with difficult decisions. It’s about knowing our options, making our wishes known, and giving our families peace of mind.

Planning with Heart, Not Pressure

Planning with Heart, Not Pressure

At Wells Funeral Services, we understand how emotional and daunting end-of-life planning can be. But we also see, time and again, how powerful it is when these conversations happen early. Whether it’s talking about the type of funeral you would prefer, considering pre-planning, or just letting your family know your wishes,

At Wells Funeral Services, we understand how emotional and daunting end-of-life planning can be. But we also see, time and again, how powerful it is when these conversations happen early. Whether it’s talking about the type of funeral you would prefer, considering pre-planning, or just letting your family know your wishes,

At Wells Funeral Services, we offer dignified and affordable funerals from £1,899, backed by 140 five-star reviews. Offices in Wells and Chilcompton, serving our community with care.

At Wells Funeral Services, we offer dignified and affordable funerals from £1,899, backed by 140 five-star reviews. Offices in Wells and Chilcompton, serving our community with care. PRICES FROM

H H H H H

Read 140 5-star Google reviews (as of November 2024)

it can bring clarity and peace to everyone involved.

it can bring clarity and peace to everyone involved.

Our experienced team is here to support you—whether you are exploring funeral options, navigating estate planning, or simply looking for guidance through grief. You don’t have to go it alone. We’re here to listen, guide, and offer the compassionate care you deserve, at every stage of the journey.

Our experienced team is here to support you—whether you are exploring funeral options, navigating estate planning, or simply looking for guidance through grief. You don’t have to go it alone. We’re here to listen, guide, and offer the compassionate care you deserve, at every stage of the journey.

Your Right to Choose Matters

Your Right to Choose Matters

Something many people don’t realise is that families always have the right to choose their funeral director—especially when a loved one dies in a care home.

Something many people don’t realise is that families always have the right to choose their funeral director—especially when a loved one dies in a care home.

Sadly, some families feel led or pressured toward a particular provider, often suggested by staff. While recommendations may be wellintentioned, actively encouraging the

Sadly, some families feel led or pressured toward a particular provider, often suggested by staff. While recommendations may be wellintentioned, actively encouraging the

use of one funeral director goes against the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) guidelines. Everyone deserves the opportunity to make informed choices without influence or pressure.

use of one funeral director goes against the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) guidelines. Everyone deserves the opportunity to make informed choices without influence or pressure.

That’s why open conversations with loved ones—and with care homes—are so important. Talk about what you want, express your preferences, and make sure your wishes are respected. It’s your journey, and your voice should be heard.

That’s why open conversations with loved ones—and with care homes—are so important. Talk about what you want, express your preferences, and make sure your wishes are respected. It’s your journey, and your voice should be heard.

Start the Conversation This May

Start the Conversation This May

So, this Dying Matters Awareness Week, we encourage you to take that first step. It could be a quiet chat over a cup of tea, a heartfelt family discussion, or simply writing your wishes down. However it looks, it’s a conversation that matters— because you matter.

So, this Dying Matters Awareness Week, we encourage you to take that first step. It could be a quiet chat over a cup of tea, a heartfelt family discussion, or simply writing your wishes down. However it looks, it’s a conversation that matters— because you matter.

At Wells Funeral Services we are here to make the journey feel less overwhelming and more human, with open arms and listening hearts.

At Wells Funeral Services we are here to make the journey feel less overwhelming and more human, with open arms and listening hearts.

Let’s make death a part of life we’re not afraid to talk about. Let’s start the conversation—for ourselves, and for the people we love.

Let’s make death a part of life we’re not afraid to talk about. Let’s start the conversation—for ourselves, and for the people we love.

Want to talk? We’re here to listen.

Want to talk? We’re here to listen.

n WHAT’S ON

Watercolours a pilgrimage in pictures

IN the South Cloister of Wells Cathedral there will be an exhibition of watercolour paintings from May 19 to June 2 – which includes the half-term holiday – by the artist Caroline Byrne.

Caroline works as an artist with the refugee charity Charis based in Taunton and is also a Licensed Lay Minister in Wells Cathedral.

During Covid times Caroline had the opportunity to be on Chaplain duty in the Cathedral and to take a fresh look at things that might easily be passed by or overlooked.

From this emerged her small book, A Walk Around Wells Cathedral, available in the Cathedral Bookshop. It consists

and

tapestries

stained glass, inside and outside Wells Cathedral. Visitors can find the

griffin, the dragon, the hares and the leopard as they go on their pilgrim journey.

Artist Caroline Byrne with some of her paintings

n WHAT’S ON

Tickets selling fast for comedy shows

TICKETS are selling fast for most shows at this year’s Wells Comedy Festival, taking place from May 23-25.

Some shows have sold out altogether, and stars including Sara Pascoe, Simon Amstell and Rhys James have added extra shows due to the demand.

For the full line-up and to buy tickets, go to www.wellscomfest. com

Board game dates

WELLS Board Game Group will meet at The Quarter Jack, Priory Road, Wells, on Wednesday, May 14, and Wednesday, May 28, from 7pm-9.30pm.

There will be a series of lively demonstrations and skirmishes from The Wardour Garrison re-enactors

Crafts, cooking and combat

by questions, at Christ Church, Henton, on Friday, May 16, 7pm for 7.30pm. The talk will be accessible for those with little medical knowledge.

Tickets at £10 are available from jennycrossley@mbzonline. net or Whats App 07753 958836. There will be a cash/card bar.

Yoga Classes with Layla:

Tuesday: 5.30pm Yin Yoga Friday: 9.15am Hatha Yoga Sunday: 10.30am Yoga

All above at Wells Leisure Centre

Wednesday: 10.30am Slow Flow

Yoga at Studio Eight

Thursday: 5.45pm Yin Yoga at Studio Eight

Tuesday: 1-2.30pm Home-ed yoga social. £10 per child and parent

Essential Mindful Exercise

Core & More

Functional Fitness Classes

www.healthtaichi.co.uk

www.pilogafit.co.uk

John Beasley 01749 672482

Pub music events

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

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

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

THE Wardour Garrison, a group of re-enactors who enjoy recreating life as it might have been in England during the 17th century, will be setting up their encampment at The Bishop’s Palace on May 3 and 4. There will be crafts and combat demonstrations, and the activities of daily life within the camp will also be on show including what the cooks are cooking, what games the soldiers

Opening to visitors

THE City of Wells Almshouses are holding an Open Day on Saturday, June 21, from 11am4pm. Entry is free.

The event provides an opportunity for visitors to explore the gardens and medieval buildings as well as the Guild Room and newlyrenovated ancient Chapel.

There will be lunches and home-made cakes and puddings, and music from Somerset flutes (12pm-1pm) and The Grey Dogs Jazz band (1.30pm-3pm).

The Almshouses are at the back of St Cuthbert’s Church and on Priest Row.

are playing alongside many other crafts which will be taking place around the encampment. The event is included with any standard admission ticket to the Palace and is suitable for families of all ages. Visitors should be aware though that loud bangs will occur throughout the weekend due to firearms and cannons so this event may not be suitable for dogs or individuals who are sensitive to loud noises.

PILATES AND BARRE

TUESDAYS

Pilates 9.15am

Pilates Seated Seniors 10.30am

WEDNESDAYS

Barre 5pm • Pilates 6pm

THURSDAYS

Pilates 9.15am • Barre 10.30am

FRIDAYS

Pilates 9.15am

Location Wells Town Hall.

Small, mixed ability classes.

To apply, contact Sally at: zest2zen@gmail.com

Expert speaker

NICOLA Lewis, who grew up locally, is a Director of the Francis Crick Institute and Professor at the Royal Veterinary College. She works to combat global infectious diseases, in people and animals.

She will give an illustrated talk (Combating Global Infectious Diseases – preventing the next pandemic?) followed

All classes suitable for beginners or those just returning. Email laylacarter001@gmail.com or whatsapp 07495 828742 for booking details or inquiries. Available for one to ones

Social occasions

THE Connect-Ed Inclusive Games and Social Group meets at The Lawrence Centre, Wells, from 3.30pm-5.30pm on the first and last Tuesday of each month. The first Tuesday of each month will be a quiet session, and the last Tuesday of each month will be all welcome. The sessions provide a safe space for adults with Autism Spectrum Condition and/or mild learning disabilities. There is no cost to attend and refreshments are free. Support staff, family and friends are also welcome.

Sing-along sessions

GOLDEN-OLDIES sing-along sessions for older people take place on the first Wednesday of each month at the Methodist Church Hall, 24 Southover, Wells, BA5 1UH, with Al and Annie Whitley. From 2.30pm3.30pm, with tea and coffee from 2.15pm.

Chance to talk travel

TRAVEL Counsellors Charley Robinson and Emma Glover will be hosting their next Travel Coffee Club at Fosso Lounge, High Street, Wells, on Friday, May 2, from 10am-12pm. The event gives people the chance to call in and chat to them about holidays over a cup of coffee.

Health Tai Chi

PilogaFit

n WHAT’S ON

Artists whose work can be seen in the Spring into Summer exhibition

Galleries holding joint exhibition

HERITAGE Courtyard Gallery & Studios and A2 Gallery are holding their first joint Open Exhibition, Spring into Summer, to be held at 6 Heritage Courtyard, Sadler Street, Wells. There will be work in three as well as two dimensions, applied arts and the fine arts in a range of artforms including painting, drawing, print, sculpture, photography, textiles, multimedia, jewellery, glass and

ceramics. Artists will include those who regularly exhibit at A2 Gallery and Heritage Courtyard as well as invited artists.

Heather Wallace of Heritage Courtyard and Simon Schachter of A2 Gallery say they are excited to be curating their first joint show. The exhibition opens on Saturday, May 3, with a private view from 6.30pm-8.30pm, and then runs from May 5-17, Tuesday-Saturday, 10am-4pm.

Museum puts paper in spotlight

DID a papermill worker live in your house in Wells? Visit Wells & Mendip Museum and read about Leonard Adams who lived in Silver Street before the First World War.

The Museum’s artists’ books exhibition, On Paper, also gives visitors an opportunity to view and handle books handmade by ABDC (Artists Book Club Dove), which includes artists, printmakers, poets, textile artists, a puppeteer and a botanist, meeting monthly since 2012 at Dove Studios, Butleigh.

It features the tactile handmade papers that Somerset is famed for, including the

Poetry guest

WELLS Fountain Poets will welcome popular writer Annie Fisher to their meeting upstairs at The King’s Head, High Street, on Monday, May 12, from 7pm9pm.

Guest poet Annie (from Fire River Poets in Taunton) will read from her new book Missing the Man Next Door. Plus open mic –no need to book in advance. This is a friendly and welcoming group. Suggested donation £3.

Learn more about Leonard Adams

high-quality rag paper made at Wookey Hole Paper Mill until 2014. Open from May 6-10, from 10am-4pm.

Dance classes

WELLS Scottish Dancers hold classes on Thursday evenings from 6.30pm to 8.30pm at the Blue School Sports Centre, Wells.

The Scottish country dancing group welcomes all ages over 18, no experience is necessary, and no partner is needed.

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

The

Hit songs being played live again

NINE-PIECE band The South, featuring former members of The Beautiful South including singer Alison Wheeler and lifelong sax player Gaz Birtles, are playing at Studio 24 in Wells on Friday, May 9.

Since the demise of The Beautiful South in 2007, The

South have spent 15 years touring the theatres and festivals of the UK, bringing back the full sound and arrangements of songs such as A Little Time, Perfect 10, Song For Whoever and Good as Gold.

Tickets are available from thesouth.co.uk/tour-dates

Wells chamber choir the Swan Singers will be following Alexander the Great from modern Greece, through Persia to India with the programme for their next concert, In the Footsteps of Alexander. It will take place at St Thomas’ Church, Wells, on Saturday, May 3, at 7pm and feature among other things settings of words by Sappho, portions of the Rubaiyat of Omar Khayyam and the sacred Hindu text the Rig Veda, as well as music by well-loved composers including Holst, Stanford and John Tavener. Tickets are £10, available via info@swansingers.com or at the door.

include Keith Crocker and Colin Brown

South will be appearing in Wells on May 9

n AROUND THE SOCIETIES

WELLS CIVIC SOCIETY

THERE are a host of stories behind the series of 11 Blue Plaques in Wells.

For example, that Winston Churchill stayed at the Swan Hotel.

And England’s greatest cricketer, W G Grace, played on the Recreation Ground in 1867 and left after scoring only three runs. He was famous for refusing to leave the crease when given out by the umpire.

These and many more stories were told in a talk at Wells Town Hall by Philip Welch, who led on creating the plaques on behalf of Wells Civic Society.

The sites for the plaques are:

No 1: Swan Hotel which opened in 1422 and welcomed famous guests like King Henry VII, and Prime Ministers Ramsay Macdonald and Winston Churchill.

No 2: Wells Blue School for film director Edgar Wright who was a student there and made most of the movie Hot Fuzz in the city.

No 3: 10 Market Place, now part of the Crown Hotel but a photographic shop from 18551979 run by Bert Phillips for almost 50 years from 1866. He created a treasure trove of iconic images recording local events.

No 4: Silver Street. W G Grace playing on the Recreation Ground in 1867.

No 5: The former Barclays Bank plaque recalls Judge Jeffreys trying 541 rebels captured by King James II’s soldiers after the Protestant Duke of Monmouth’s failed rebellion, in one day in 1685.

No 6: Portway, the modern house was built on the entrance to the demolished Brine’s Brush Factory. Brushes used to be made in several Wells factories.

No 7: St Andrew Street, this commemorates best-selling author Elizabeth Goudge who was born in The Tower House on St Andrew Street in 1900 and aged two she moved to The Rib across the road.

No 8: Keward, the Wells gallows were near here.

No 9: The Mitre in Sadler Street which was a major coaching inn under different names from 1605.

No 10: The City Arms. The Wells jail was based here from 1606. Later cells were included in the new Town Hall built in 1779.

No 11: Priory Health Park. In Victorian times there were plenty of paupers in Wells so in 1836 a Workhouse was built where they could be usefully employed.

n The next Wells Civic Society event is a public meeting on why public services are being devolved by Somerset Council to Wells City Council and what it means for local residents. There will be a panel comprising Wells Town Clerk Haylee Wilkins, Somerset Councillor Theo Butt Philip and the chair of the city council’s Finance Committee, Councillor Stewart Cursley. It will take place in Wells and Mendip Museum at 7pm on Wednesday, May 14.

WELLS ROTARY CLUB

A REALLY enjoyable day was recently shared by Wells Rotarians and friends at Chew Valley Hand Made Glass. Nine of us met for coffee at New Manor Farm in West Harptree, before crossing the courtyard to the

studio where we were shown how to make our own coloured paperweights. A fascinating process… that actually led to some pleasing results. Lunch in the cafe rounded off a great day out.

Rather more energetic was a Rotary-led walk as part of the Exmoor Challenge in April; after which members were ready to relax and hear about The History of Gin at the club’s monthly dinner with speaker in the Crown.

Although we couldn’t hold our planned Saturday street collection in Wells for Myanmar, having failed to secure the necessary licence in time, we did donate £1,000 to the appeal; and we will shortly be packing Water Survival Boxes to send off to the earthquake victims.

COXLEY & DISTRICT WI

IT was a pleasantly warm evening when we met this April. How delightful to start in proper

daylight at last. We welcomed Carol Plenty from what is now East Somerset YMCA (formerly Wells YMCA, established more than 100 years ago). It is now the biggest bed supplier in the county, comprising of 17 beds in Street, a total of ten in Glastonbury (high and low support in two houses), 13 in Frome, nine in Shepton Mallet followed by eight in Wells; there is also a hub in Wells.

The YMCA aim to assist homeless young people and adults in our area, to give people a start-up that we would all aspire to for ourselves and loved ones. This involves firstly getting people off the street who are sleeping rough, then eventually finding employment and permanent housing. Many of their clientele are young vulnerable adults coming out of the care system, some having complex problems.

Their work also involves providing a youth club in Wells. There are 16 clubs altogether in Somerset. Nursery care is also provided within Somerset.

The public are encouraged to contact the YMCA if they know of anyone sleeping rough, so this process can start. The YMCA are always on the look-out for donations, not necessarily monetary.

For many years the WI have donated ‘decorated shoe boxes’ each Christmas which are also filled with goodies as presents. These are much appreciated, as often they represent the only gift that is received.

Carol then answered our

Continued on page 40

Wells Rotary Club members were able to make their own paperweights

Philip Welch giving his Blue Plaques talk in Wells Town Hall

n AROUND THE SOCIETIES

From page 39

many questions. Val thanked Carol for her very informative talk on our behalf.

There was no competition this month, however flower of the month was won by Ursula, Margret R second and Jenny third.

Hilary reported on the walking group’s latest expedition which was enjoyed by all who went. Good weather was enjoyed as was the company and coffee. The next walk will be on May 9, destination yet to be decided upon. Karen reported on the craft club meeting. Thirteen hearts have been made.

Our book club met with a lively discussion on the last book. We meet next on April 24 at Jenny’s, the chosen book is Moon Tiger by Penelope Lively.

Lunch club are next going to meet at the Mendip Inn, date yet to be arranged. Pat H will have the details later.

Peggy then gave us our latest financial report.

The formation of a digital learning group was discussed, possibly to commence at Peggy’s in the autumn.

An open tea and cake afternoon event to take place in August was also discussed with members.

Val highlighted that we have a suggestion box for new ideas and improvements, which are welcome. All suggestions are thoroughly discussed at committee level and taken to our next full meeting for members’ feedback.

SCF WI are putting on a quiz in Wells this July, it has been agreed that we will submit a team.

Our next meeting (at Coxley Memorial Hall on May 6, at 7pm) is our AGM. Nominations are being taken for officers and committee members. After the business we will be having a social evening. There will be no competition this time.

A warm welcome awaits any visitors interested in our small but friendly group.

Ursula Dann

WELLS FLORAL ART CLUB

CLUB members welcomed Germaine Smith, area demonstrator from Taunton, back to Wells on Tuesday, April 8, with her demonstration Spring

contact

Inspirations. Following an introduction by our chairwoman Sylvia Ingham, Germaine explained her ideas for her designs. She has lived in sight of the Quantocks and Black Down hills for many years and has walked on them both, picking up various pieces of fallen wood and twigs which she uses in her designs. We are all being encouraged to reduce our use of floral foam so for Germaine’s first design she used birch twigs bound together to support an arrangement in a glass vase of pink lilies, spotted laurel and lavender clematis.

Flower arrangers are great foragers and always have friends with plants not in their own gardens so her second arrangement, again foam free, began with pink cherry blossom from a neighbour’s garden, placed in a Constance Spry vase filled with chicken wire as the method of support. The container was then filled with white lilies and stocks, blue irises and a variety of different daffodils before pink tulips completed the design.

The next arrangement was an upright design of pussy willow, pink stocks, roses, hypericum berries and carnations, ideal for a narrow space.

Germaine’s walks on the Quantocks with her beloved dog Storm are a very important part of her life. Her next design in a long piece of bark which she found on one of these walks left the audience in fits of laughter. It was found in a steep gully which was not easy to access for a woman of more mature years and it had to be manoeuvred up the side of the hill a few steps at

a time. It was certainly worth it to see it filled with purple tinged carnations, pale lavender statis, white freesias tinted with purple and white tulips.

To close the afternoon’s entertainment Germaine arranged a more traditional pedestal in a stone urn to represent oranges and lemons. She began with variegated cream and peach antirrhinum, orange freesias and gerberas, yellow roses and alstroemeria, and sprigs of solidago completed the design.

Pat Squire gave the vote of thanks and Lyn Macdonald, Anne Parsons and Dawn Davis served the teas which completed a delightful afternoon.

Our next demonstration will be on Tuesday, May 13, entitled Relax and Play, by area demonstrator, Julia Harrison. It will be at 2.15pm in St Thomas’ Church Hall, Wells, BA5 2UZ.

This year our annual demonstration by Angie Blackwell and cream tea is in aid of Somerset Sight and the Strawberry Line Footpath Project. It’s at 2pm on Saturday, June 28, in St Thomas’ Church Hall. Tickets at £15 are available from Suzy on 07966 654307.

Jenny Jones

WELLS TUESDAY WI

APRIL’S meeting found us enjoying a talk from Susan Tanner of Plum Pudding Pigs. She told us of her journey from planning the Bristol Balloon Fiesta to raising rare breed Oxford Sandy and Blacks up on the Mendips. A wonderful talk that had us cooing and laughing,

and tearing up at the highs and lows of animal husbandry. Hopefully we will be able to visit and see them ‘in person’ later in the year.

Our tagline is ‘so much more than a monthly meeting’ and as we enter the new WI year, this is more true than ever. As the weather has been so beautiful our blooming fun group has been out and about admiring gardens and been busy working on their own, sharing plants and advice.

A group of us went to see ‘Joseph’ in Bristol enjoying a pre-show meal at the Cosy Club, and ‘Mr Burton’ at Wells Cinema, with discussion in Wetherspoons afterwards. Our book clubs have become oversubscribed so we have added a third, ‘Books and banter’, to the mix so we now have a coffee, lunchtime and evening version to hopefully suit everyone. Knit and natter now has a fourth group so we should be able to spot some stylish knitwear out and about.

The two walking groups are out exploring – with April being the month of our memorial walk (to remember dearly loved past members), and a trip up the Tor for those happy to take on a hill. Pickleball, cycling and walking netball are keeping members fit and we have added a swimming group into the mix for the new WI year.

The photography group who meet on Zoom shared their images of water. Most of us use our phones these days so it is great to learn just what they can actually do in terms of lenses and editing – no longer the anticipation of waiting for those special photos to discover a fine view of your own thumb. More traditionally crafties enjoyed embossing last month and this month are tackling collages. The new pencil drawing groups are enjoying mindful drawing.

We wish all our sister WI groups a happy and successful year and look forward to meeting up with them at county and local events.

WELLS AND DISTRICT WILDLIFE GROUP

MAY is the month when swifts arrive in the skies over Wells. They cannot be missed as they have the habit, particularly at dusk, of forming groups which fly at reckless speeds around buildings screaming loudly.

Germaine Smith, who gave a demonstration to Wells Floral Art Club

n AROUND THE SOCIETIES

This behaviour has earned them names such as ‘devil bird’, ‘screecher’ and ‘screamer’. They nest in crevices in buildings or use special nest boxes put out to attract them.

May is also the month to leave lawns uncut to enable wildflowers to bloom and supply much needed nectar to insects as well as an area for birds such as thrushes, dunnocks and robins to forage in. All this you will get for leaving the mower in the shed! On warm, still May evenings bats, such as pipistrelle, may be seen hawking for insects in your garden and parks.

We will be having two outdoor events during May. On Saturday, May 10, there will be a photo ramble at the Combe in Wells. The Combe is a long, narrow valley which extends north from the junction of Ash Lane, New Street and College Road. Join wildlife photographer and artist Victoria Hillman for an interactive photo ramble (10am-noon) and learn how to observe and take better photos of nature. No special equipment is required. Just bring what you’ve got: camera, smartphone or iPad. The cost is £10 per person. Numbers are limited so advance booking is essential.

Later on in the month, on Tuesday, May 27, there will be an evening visit (7pm-9pm) to the RSPB reserve at Ham Wall. There are many species to be seen here with a soundtrack that includes the distinctive booming of Bitterns. Sightings of wildlife can never be guaranteed but chances are good that we could see not only Bitterns, Egrets and Hobbies, but potentially also Cuckoo, Barn Owl and Marsh Harrier. Numbers are limited so booking is essential. £5 per adult (payable on booking), under 16s free. For more details or to reserve a place on any of these events please go to bookings@ wdwg.org.uk

Graham Allen

WOOKEY HOLE WI

WOOKEY Hole WI usually meet on the first Monday of the month but the first Monday in May is May Day. We are therefore meeting on Tuesday, May 6, at 2pm in the Bistro at the Wookey Hole Caves Hotel.

This meeting coincides with the four-day VE celebrations. It is 80 years since there were

such joyful scenes in our streets and we have decided to mark the event with a celebration tea at our meeting.

Our ladies have been asked to bring along any 1945 memorabilia that they have. It will be interesting to see what we are able to display. One item is to be a 1/12th 1940s kitchen complete with Mum reading about the victory celebrations in the newspaper.

We welcome visitors to come along to our meeting if you would like to. A warm welcome is guaranteed. Ring Jill for further details: 01749 675477.

HENTON & DISTRICT GARDENING CLUB

OUR next meeting is on Wednesday, May 21, when Christina Angelucci will talk to us about Breeding Dahlias.

Christina’s dahlia journey began when she purchased a couple of dozen tubers to see how she got on with them. By 2019 she was growing about 800 different dahlias. Her current passion is to produce open centred varieties that provide food for our rapidly declining pollinators. She will bring plants/tubers for sale.

The meeting will take place at Henton Village Hall (BA51PD),

refreshments at 7pm, talk begins at 7.30pm. New members are always welcome, visitors £5. Further details: www. hentongardenclub.weebly.com

RICHARD III SOCIETY SOMERSET BRANCH

THE Society meets at Wells Museum on the third Saturday of the month. Doors open at 12.30pm with the first talk of the afternoon starting at 1.30pm and the meeting concluding at 4pm. Refreshments are served before the first talk and during the interval.

On Saturday, May 17, David Fawcett will talk about the duties of the Medieval Herald in peace and war. Visitors and guests are most welcome.

For more information please call Patsy Barrow, 01749 679296 or email patsybarrow1948@ gmail.com

OVEREATERS ANONYMOUS

ANYONE for whom eating is a problem is welcome at meetings of Overeaters Anonymous.

The group is a 12 Step Fellowship – not a diet club –which many sufferers have found to be the only solution to this distressing condition. It now meets in the Portway Annexe, Wells, on Wednesday afternoons from 3.30pm-4.30pm.

More information from oagb. org or from local contacts: 07989 474570 or 07900 361631.

WELLS U3A

IN March, a group from Wells u3a visited Salisbury Cathedral and learnt many facts during their visit. The cathedral is

unique in that it took only 40 years to build in the beautiful Early English Gothic style. The steeple was a later addition, along with other features. It is very much a working environment, with choirs doing their daily practice, regular prayers, areas that are closed for morning service, music rehearsals and plenty of volunteer guides to cope with many visitors.

You could hardly miss the beautiful Prisoners of Conscience window and the big modern font in its central position, the water brimming and mirroring the vaulted roof over the nave.

The working of the ancient clock is a well-preserved example of the earliest type of mechanical clock, called verge and foliot, and is said to be the oldest working clock in the world, although similar claims are made for other clocks.

Old Sarum is where the cathedral was originally built, in the area of the motte and bailey castle. Despite being enlarged twice, the first cathedral was demolished and rebuilt in the river valley below at Salisbury after just over 100 years at Old Sarum.

The cathedral stands with its feet in water. There is no crypt. Nowhere are the foundations more than 4ft deep, and the water level is examined regularly through a spyhole with a dip stick.

Visits like this are organised two or three times a year and are open to all members, where they travel to locations by coach. There is also an out and about group where members get themselves there to places within an hour’s drive of Wells, to the venue.

The latest of these visits was to the Somerset Toiletry Company at Clutton where there is a comfortable cafe and shop where you can buy many of the products they produce, some at reduced prices and other gifts and cards. Having had lunch our group were then taken on a guided tour of the factory at Hallatrow where they saw the production of soap being made.

The April talk, also open to all members, was by the Rev Jeremy Hellier of the Mission to Seafarers based at Portbury and Avonmouth Docks. Ninety per cent of everything we use comes

Continued on page 42

The 1940s kitchen that will be one of the Wookey Hole WI VE items

Dahlias will be discussed at the next meeting of Henton & District Gardening Club

n AROUND THE SOCIETIES

From page 41

to us by sea. Our 1.9 million seafarers are therefore essential to our way of life. Jeremy and his team look after many of these sailors, on ships that enter our waters, in many ways not only with their faith but their welfare and to make them feel welcome in a strange environment.

If they come from warmer climates they will often arrive in Bristol and be unprepared for the cold weather so the Mission to Seafarers can provide them with warm home-made hats, scarves, gloves, etc. If anyone has time to knit any of these items they are always welcome and very much used. You can send in anything you have made or you can contact the Mission to Seafarers on Jeremy.hillier@mtsmail.org and he will send you the official knitting patterns. They also provide shoeboxes of presents at Christmas for sailors who are thousands of miles from home at that time of the year.

There is plenty going on for all retired and semi-retired people in our area throughout the year. If you would like to know more and find out about the interest groups available, just go to our website https://wells. u3asite.uk or call into our coffee morning at the Portway Annexe on a Thursday morning from 10.30am-11.30am where you can meet some of our members who will give you more information and join them in a cup of coffee. Liz Lee and Ann Brown

WELLS RAILWAY FRATERNITY

AT the April meeting of the Fraternity, the audience were treated to a celebration of 50 Years with the Class 50 Diesel Locomotives given by Geoff Hudson, a former Fleet Manager at Plymouth Laira Depot. Geoff is not only a retired railway man but also an enthusiast.

The presentation covered the whole history of the class going back to the roots of the early diesel locomotives in Britain when the crash of the R101 led to abandonment of the airship programme and the transfer of diesel engine engineers to the railway industry. The English Electric company were involved from the first diesel shunters through the 1600hp LMS twins, 10000 and 10001, and the three Southern Railway

locomotives, the last of which was uprated to 2000hp. This led to the development of the EE class 40, the first express diesel fleet locomotive. However, these engines were very heavy and so were limited in haulage capacity. Further advances in diesel technology allowed EE to produce a 2700hp demonstrator, number DP2, using an iconic Deltic body containing a 16CSVT inter-cooled and turbocharged diesel power unit. Despite this locomotive meeting a sorry end when it hit a derailed freight train at 50mph, it was the basis of the Class 50 fleet of 50 2700hp locos.

The Class 50s were built to haul express passenger trains from Crewe to Scotland where 5400hp capable engines were needed to scale the northern fells. Forward thinking called for 2700hp locos capable of working in multiple driven by one man so that when that line was electrified the 50s could be cascaded to the BR Western region where 2700hp was considered sufficient and they could be used individually.

To advertise, contact Andy on

Geoff started his apprenticeship at Laira as the Class 50s arrived at that depot. So, he was able to talk about their complete working lives as front-line express power, illustrating it with numerous images and impressive video clips of their time in the West Country, detailing not only their successes but also their problems and development. Following the retirement of both Geoff and the locos from front line service he has remained involved with those eight of which have made it into preservation. Some of these can still be seen on the mainline either hauling enthusiasts’ specials or earning their corn on empty stock moves.

The last meeting of this season will be on May 13 in Wells Town Hall at 19:30 hours when the speaker will be Brian Arman on the subject of Oddities around Swindon. New members and guests are always welcome. The new season will start on Tuesday, September 9, with a talk about the 200th Anniversary of the Stockon and Darlington Railway, the “Railway

that put the world on track!” For further information about the Wells Railway Fraternity and the Railwells Model Railway Exhibition, to be held on August 9 and 10, see the website Railwells.com

CITY OF WELLS LIONS

DANCING in the aisles was the order of service when we organised a gig in St Thomas’ Church. Loose Ends gave us great music and with a raffle organised by WCN and bar from Gorgons Carnival Club, we raised funds to be shared between The Lawrence Centre and other charitable causes. Our thanks go to Peter Douglas of Wells Ltd for their generous sponsorship and to the Tourist Information team for selling tickets.

Much of our time is currently preparing for the Moat Boat Race to be held on The Bishop’s Palace Moat on August 25 and we would love some extra help with this. Do get in touch to find out more.

We have monthly business meetings on the second Monday of the month and regular social events too. We are going on a heritage/ghost walk on April 25 and planning a summer picnic. We will be supporting community events including a Somerset Prostate Support Association screening event, the Festival of Running and litter picking in Wells.

If you are interested in finding out more about City of Wells Lions please get in touch either by writing to Mary Ellis (President) at cityofwellslions@ gmail.com, find us on Facebook or leave a message for our secretary on 0345 833 6736.

WELLS MONDAY WI

A FEW weeks ago, we welcomed the spring equinox and with it, a fresh season of growth and new ideas.

At our AGM in April we elected a new President, Gill Steel, who moved to Somerset six year ago and had previously been an active member at Baslow WI, in Derbyshire.

Vice President Suzy Vivash and Secretary/Memberships Ali Goldsmith were re-elected and we welcomed some new and some previous committee members back onto the team. We celebrated with cupcakes,

Wells u3a members by the font during their visit to Salisbury Cathedral

n AROUND THE SOCIETIES

prosecco or nosecco, a display of art and crafts from our activity groups and a wind-down taster session of Tai Chi. The night was definitely one to remember!

As part of the new look Monday WI our environmental group has completed their first initiative collaborating with other groups within the City of Wells.

Our WI ladies have been working to restore and preserve the signs of the Recreation Ground which is a beautiful amenity space to be enjoyed by all. Now the signs are complete and installed, please visit the park and take a look.

The great outdoors always features in our WI life and as we make new plans for the spring and summer months our committee have been working hard behind the scenes creating activities in outside places to enjoy the friendship our community brings alongside the beautiful natural environment around us.

Our trip this month will be to Coates English Willow Visitor Centre where we will visit the museum and learn about a traditional country craft including the making of charcoal. This process will be of particular interest to our art group, who are looking forward to using charcoal as a media.

Welcoming all new Lady Members, we offer a wide and varied range of activities, friendship and education which link with the NFWI’s core values.

Please contact our Membership Secretary Ali, wellsmondaywi@gmail.com for details and to arrange a precursory visit prior to membership.

ST THOMAS WOMEN’S FELLOWSHIP

AT our meeting on April 2 we were pleased to welcome Elaine from the Freewheelers, our charity for 2024, so we could hand over our donation. It was so nice to meet her and she gave a much appreciated “thank you” speech.

Unfortunately our intended speaker could not be with us, but we were delighted to have Pamela Egan, who we were so sorry to miss in January when we had to cancel our meeting due to ice and snow, join us for a truly interesting evening and learn

more about the history of the people and our beautiful city of Wells. Members were so pleased to see Pamela again that she had rousing round of applause before she had said a word. The entire evening was a happy experience.

We meet next on Wednesday, May 7, at 7pm when Jane Dyson will be speaking on Postcards from Peru and Bolivia. Afterwards we will celebrate the 80th anniversary of VE Day with music and a drink and I’m sure some waving of flags.

Pat Dyer

WELLS & DISTRICT GARDENING CLUB

One of the most pleasing sounds of Springtime to be heard all over the country is the cooing of chiropractors as Man picks up the garden spade.

Anon

SPRING has advanced into early summer and gardeners have advanced with it, mercifully unscathed or most of us at least. Time to clamber out of the bean trench, to cease the eternal

stream of television gardeners are insistent upon keeping us busy. The restless Monty Don always has a list of jobs to keep our noses to the grindstone to fill our weekends. Even touring around a grandiose garden he was compelled to remind us that, “none of this could be achieved without an immense amount of hard work”. We almost felt guilty in our armchairs instead of doing something about it.

Gardens are our pleasure grounds and there must be an end to the heaving and hefting.

This is a plea for a more philosophical approach. Our pride and pleasure are private affairs and we may wish to share these with our friends but few would really appreciate a visit by Mr Don and his dogs. The huge majority of gardens have owners who are satisfied with what they achieve. The late Stuart Chambers of Cannington College used to say that he grew two sorts of plants: “Ones that grew and ones that didn’t.” With the latter, he said, “I just look at the label and use my imagination.” The words of a contented gardener.

grapple with the trellis, to clear away the soggy piles of couch and late prunings. Time to take stock and take a rest before becoming one of the walking wounded.

But this is not the Protestant Work Ethic. Idle hands etc. Some gardeners revel in being devils for punishment. Margery Fish of Lambrook Manor used to say that, “clearing bindweed is far more exciting than golf or fishing”. What’s more, the

Now to the next meeting of the Wells & District Gardening Club which should be a real treat. Ben Turner, horticulturist and arboriculturalist with Bournemouth Borough Council, spent a year working in the Gardens of Tresco Abbey and will be talking about his experiences in the Scillies.

Details: Thursday, May 8, at 7.30pm in Wells Town Hall. Inspiration from Tresco Abbey Gardens presented by Ben Turner. Members £2, Visitors £5. Refreshments from 7pm. Everyone very welcome.

Pip Harwood

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Top, St Thomas Women’s Fellowship members at their April meeting with Elaine from the Freewheelers; and above: ‘Gardens are our pleasure grounds and there must be an end to the heaving and hefting’

Picture: Pip Harwood

FOOTBALL: Action from the game between Wells City FC 1sts, in blue, and Hallen FC 1sts at the Athletic Ground on April 5. Hallen won the Jewson Western League Division One game 1-0.

Trio awarded Life Memberships

CRICKET

THREE people have been made new Life Members of Wells and Horrington Cricket Club. Following a unanimous vote at the club AGM, Nelson Russell, Margaret Chappell and Ted Chappell were recently awarded their Life Memberships at the East Horrington Coffee

Morning in recognition and thanks for their countless hours of volunteering for Horrington CC and subsequently Wells and Horrington CC.

With the 2025 season about to start, the club would welcome new players, particularly Senior and Women players. For more, email wellsandhorringtoncc@ gmail.com

Opportunity to give sport a go

CROQUET

THE summer is coming, and the croquet season has started. The Palace Croquet Club is keen to welcome new members. Members play most afternoons during the week and some Saturdays through to October. This is a small, friendly club playing in the beautiful surroundings of The Bishop’s Palace.

Men’s Captain is club’s youngest

GOLF

MENDIP Golf Club’s Men’s Captain for 2025 is Jack Hayes. Jack joined Mendip in 2013 and plays off a handicap of 1.9, probably the lowest handicap Men’s Captain the club has had and most certainly the youngest. Jack has played in a variety of Mendip’s teams and also enjoys Open Competitions. His chosen charity is Mind in Somerset, a mental health charity specifically to help folks living in Somerset.

Mendip’s Avalon A Team, having beaten Oake Manor’s A Team the previous week, followed this up with a fine 4-1 win against Oake Manor’s B Team, with wins from Kevin Keene/Nick White, Phil

Leadbeater/Mark Necker, Jack & Darrin Vowell and Tom Chapman/Spencer Pocock.

The Ladies Mid Week Stableford was won by Annette Jobbins with 35 points.

Lynne Vowles and Marion Speed played away to West Wilts in the second round of the Daily Mail event and after a very hard fought match came away with victory on the 19th.

The Seniors Avalon Team opened their campaign with a fine 4-1 win away to Minehead, the first time Minehead had ever lost a home match. Wins came from Gary Quin/Tony Taylor, Chris Beteson/Simon Atkinson, Simon Brand/Dave Golledge and Team Captain Dave Braithwaite/ Tony Scott.

Excitement for summer after successful winter season

TENNIS

AS the chill of winter gives way to the promise of spring, Wells Tennis Club has every reason to celebrate a successful Mixed Winter League season. With three teams competing through the colder months, the club’s dedication, camaraderie, and competitive spirit were on full display.

Most notably, the A team secured their place in Division 1 – an impressive feat that reflects the skill and consistency of the club’s top players. The B and C teams also put in strong performances, each finishing third in their respective divisions. Their results mean they will remain in their divisions for the next winter season, providing solid ground to build on.

The club will be holding an introductory morning on the lawns of The Bishop’s Palace on Tuesday, May 6, at 11am. No experience is necessary, but participants are asked to wear flat shoes.

To find out more and to register interest in going along to have a go, either telephone Jonathan on 01749 345355 or email palacecroquetclub@gmail. com

The excitement continues moving into the summer season; the club will be fielding four teams in both the women’s and men’s leagues, with matches kicking off at the end of April. The A teams are set to battle hard to cement their places in Division 2, with the club confident they will rise to the challenge.

Monday Men’s Night continues to thrive, often meaning there are not enough courts to meet demand – a clear sign of the club’s flourishing

community. On Tuesday evenings, the Women’s section is expanding too, now welcoming talented junior players who are eager to test their skills in the upcoming summer matches. It is clear that the club is growing – not just in numbers, but in spirit, inclusivity, and ambition. With a strong foundation built over the winter and momentum building into summer, the future looks bright for Wells Tennis Club.

Palace Croquet Club players in action on the lawns of The Bishop’s Palace

There was a win for Wells B Team against Wrington A Team –pictured are Juan Carlos Jimenez, Matthew Briscoe, Vicky Flicker and Corali Sacerdote

Wells Mayor rolls first wood to get new season under way

BOWLS

CITY of Wells Bowling Club opened their new season on the Recreation Ground on April 13 with the traditional “rolling of the first wood” by the Mayor of Wells, Councillor Jasmine Browne.

Club President Heather Willerton invited the Mayor to bowl the first wood to officially open the green for 2025.

Thanks to the recent spell of fine weather, the annual ‘Pinks’ v ‘Blues’ game, organised by Ladies Captain Rachael Allen, was able to go ahead and four rinks played a 12-end game. The players then joined the other members in attendance in the clubhouse for tea and homemade cake.

Captain Rachael announced the result as ‘an honourable draw’ and wished everyone an enjoyable season.

The club is always looking for new members of all ages and

standards, including beginners.

Club nights are every Monday evening from 6pm. Coaching is available and can be arranged to suit. Equipment will be provided, participants just need to wear flat shoes.

“We want to make the club

more of a community asset,” said Chairman Andy Barrett.

“Anyone interested in bowls is welcome to our club nights on Mondays, and also in May, every Sunday, between 11am and 1pm. A friendly welcome awaits.”

For those who just want to

sit and enjoy the surroundings and facilities, an associate (nonplaying) membership is available for £10.

For more information or to arrange a visit, see www.hugofox. com/community/city-of-wellsbowls-club-13010/contact/

Wells take Somerset Cup for first time

FOLLOWING the success of the Wells Congress in March, the chess season is coming to its finale.

Wells made the long journey down to Taunton for the final of the Somerset Cup knockout tournament. The six-board team consisted of Jeremy Lynn, Paul Humphreys, Matt Goatcher, Phil Johnson, Greg Roome and Ed Farms. Wells were significantly out-graded but the handicap system meant a 3-3 draw would crown Wells the knockout champions for 2025.

Early wins for Greg and Ed meant things looked promising. However, Taunton fought hard and pegged them back with victories on boards 1 and 4. However on Board 3 Matt turned around a seemingly lost position and clinched victory from the jaws of defeat to claim the final point needed. The 3-3 draw saw Wells take the Somerset Cup for the first time in the club’s history.

Meanwhile in Division 2 Wells picked up a crucial win playing host to Taunton. Wins

Sasha Matlak and Leon Nelson coaching the Wells juniors

for Jamie Eales, Matt Goatcher and Greg Roome and a draw from Jeremy Lynn sealed the decisive 3.5 to 0.5 win against

their nearest rivals. This means that a win or draw against Yeovil in the final match of the season would see Wells as Division 2 Champions.

In their online endeavours wells A-Team are through to this season’s Division 2 knockout section after finishing second in their league. Having just been promoted they are eager to make it up to Division 1.

Wells Junior coaching has had a boost recently. A Samsung Flip Pro 55in interactive display with trolley has been purchased

to bring chess training sessions to a new level. As one of only 16 Junior Development Pathway clubs in the country, Wells is a great place for juniors to develop and hone their chess. Currently, 38 children regularly attend sessions at the Wells Junior Chess Club. Wells is a backbone of Somerset County junior squad together with our colleagues Portishead Chess and South Bristol.

Many Wells juniors have already played in chess tournaments and gained ECF rating. Leon Nelson, Gigi Ionescu, Zino Zigan and Forrest Whitworth were upgraded to the adults’ section and played for Wells Chess Club in Somerset League and 4NCL. Blue School student Leon Nelson has also recently started helping head coach Sasha Matlak to train the younger juniors.

Wells is always keen to hear from players both young and old, experienced and new to the game. They can be found at the White Hart on Wednesdays from 7.30pm, on wellschess.co.uk and emailed at wellschessclub@ outlook.com

Mayor Jasmine Browne together with Club President Heather Willerton bowling the first wood to officially open the Wells Bowls Club green for the 2025 season

CHESS