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October 2026

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THE CHURCH Commissioners, owner of The Bishop’s Palace and the Palace Farm estate, has asked its tenants at Palace Farm to halt all parking on Palace Fields with immediate effect. A sign appeared on the gate to Palace Fields on Friday, 4th September. The sign explains that parking consent has been withdrawn by the landowners, and ends with the hope that the issue will be resolved. The sign was erected by the farm tenants. The Phelps family, who have been tenants at Palace Farm for four generations, has used Palace Fields for vehicle parking for more than 10 years. Under current law, farm land can be used for alternative, non-agricultural purposes without planning permission for a maximum of 28 days in any calendar year. Examples include festivals, car boot sales and temporary parking. As farm

Continued on page 3

A show of thanks Mayoresses and consorts honoured with new board.

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Fundraising duo Wells siblings saving for the trip of a lifetime.

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It’s festival season WAC, Wells Food Festival and Wells Festival of Literature. Campaigner Lavinia Byrne by the sign on the entrance to Palace Fields

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October 2026

n NEWS

A big thank you from boat race team WELLS Moat Boat Race Committee would like to give the biggest of ‘thank yous’ to everyone who came along and supported this year’s event over the August Bank Holiday. A new committee was formed to organise this year’s spectacle, and we were delighted not only to see the rafts racing on the moat once again, but also to reintroduce a fete on the Recreation Ground. Local organisations took the opportunity to entertain the crowds, raise funds and increase awareness of the work they do in our community, while musicians provided entertainment from the bandstand. We would particularly like to thank Bishops Michael and Fiona and Wells City Council for their support, as well as all our sponsors, supporters and

traders. And, of course, a huge thank you must go to everyone who came along on the day and helped create such a wonderful atmosphere. Thanks to the generosity of all those involved, we have been able to make donations to organisations without whose help we would not have been able to stage the event. St John Ambulance, Sea Cadets Cheddar Hub, Globe Carnival Club and Wells City Council have all benefited. The success of this year’s event has also given us some financial security as we begin looking ahead to next year. We hope to make the 2027 Wells Moat Boat Race another memorable occasion, and we would love to hear from anyone who would like to get involved and help us make it happen.

Anyone interested can get in touch through the Wells Moat Boat Race website: wellsmoatboatrace.com/

contact.php and then someone will be in touch with you. Mary Ellis, Chairman Wells Moat Boat Race Committee

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Some of the standout rafts this year included this ‘Mendip Xplorer’ bus and ‘MOATivated Women’ from the Wells Tuesday WI group, complete with suffragette figurehead

Email: sales@wellsvoice.co.uk

wellsvoice

October 2026

n NEWS

Palace Fields parking ban sparks concern From page 1 tenants though, they would require permission from the landowners. A Palace Farm spokesperson said: “We’ve had the 28 days, with their consent, for years. We had to put the sign up because people didn’t know where to go. Cars were going left, right and centre trying to find somewhere to park. It was bedlam. “We don’t think the Commissioners are aware of how important this parking is to Wells. It’s a tourist town, and there’s not enough parking. People come here for the day and need somewhere to leave their cars. “We managed to keep the car park open for the Moat Boat Race and the Railwells events, as the organisers had done so much work on them. We’re hoping to resolve something for the Wells Food Festival as it’s been running for years and so many people will be turning up on the day. “If we can sort something out then we would be proud to do that for the city.” A spokesperson for the Church Commissioners commented: “We recognise that a number of local events appear to have relied on the parking arrangements at Palace Fields. In line with our legal responsibilities, the Commissioners is currently seeking to verify the extent of the parking arrangements and that all proper planning permissions and authorisations are in place. While

the situation is being reviewed by both parties, we have asked our tenant to cease all parking activities.” The Church Commissioners owns around 100,000 acres of land and property in England. It recently applied for planning permission for 60 houses in Westbury-sub-Mendip, and in 2023 it consulted with stakeholders from The Bishop’s Palace and the Wells Civic Society about developing the Palace Farm site for around 300 houses – for more information, go to wellsvoice.co.uk/2023/12/27/ vision-for-new-homes-onpalace-farm-site. Campaigners believe that, due to the city being a major UK tourism destination, parking should be retained. Local resident and campaigner, Lavinia Byrne, said: “The Church will suffer reputational damage if the ban on parking on Palace Fields is allowed to continue. This would have a knock-on effect for our Cathedral and The Bishop’s Palace, both of which attract visitors and income to our city. “The parking which is permitted on the field should, if anything, be extended to take pressure off the medieval streets of the city and enable us to receive our visitors without hassle.” Palace Fields parking has traditionally been seasonal, with the field open for parking on Saturdays throughout the summer as well as major events,

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Many are concerned about how the parking ban will affect the upcoming Wells Food Festival on the 11th of October such as the recent Moat Boat Race and the Wells Food Festival, which is being held this year on Sunday, 11th October. With attendance figures regularly reaching around 15,000 on the day itself and over 200 traders, Palace Fields has been an essential parking location for both visitors and stallholders to the

food festival. Jon Abbott, the chair of the Wells Food Festival, said: “With Wells Food Festival attracting the largest number of external visitors to the city on a single day, the loss of Palace Fields for parking is going to have a considerable impact on the city, its residents and visitors alike.”

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wellsvoice

October 2026

n NEWS

www.wellsvoice.co.uk CONTAC TS Editor and publisher Dean Mortlock 07809 121434 dean@wellsvoice.co.uk Advertising 07809 121434 sales@wellsvoice.co.uk Editorial 07809 121434 news@wellsvoice.co.uk

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

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To ensure your news or letter is included in the October issue, contact us by 15th October.

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

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 7,400 copies will be distributed around Wells and surrounding villages.

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The presenters, with Bishop Michael, Paddy O’Hagan and Cathy Judge

Wells Community Network wins autumn SOUP By Philip Welch THE AUTUMN SOUP in Wells Cathedral proved a sellout success on Saturday, 12th September. Every voting slip was snapped up, and in a very close finish the audience chose Wells Community Network as the winner at this grant-giving lunch which underlines the need and value of volunteering in a healthy society. First on stage was Lucia Chadwick from Focus Wells who told how their charity spent the £500 they won at the last SOUP on professional counselling which transformed the life of a deeply troubled young man. Next to speak was the first of this SOUP’s presenters, Niamh McGrogan from the free and inclusive Wells Jazz and Blues Festival, which a group of volunteers launched successfully last year in four local venues. They were seeking money for big promotional banners to make the festival – ‘where strangers can become friends’ – bigger and better. Then Miriama Samiotis from Wells Community Network told about their transport services by volunteer drivers. “My message to anyone who may be alone, anyone who may be frightened as they are no longer able to drive and get to the doctors or hospital, or anyone who may simply need to hear it, Is this: You are not alone. There is somebody who cares.”

Zoe Costelloe and Emily Sheppard told how they had set up Forever Loved, a support group for those who have lost a baby, a trauma both have experienced. “We can never take away somebody’s grief. We want to make sure they don’t have to carry it alone.” They would use the SOUP donation to provide a wellness day for the people who come to their group. June MacFarlane from Wells Art Contemporary told how in a troubled world, their community projects allow local people to create artworks of high quality, including those experiencing mental health, wellbeing or social challenges. “We invite people to step forward, the door will open and you will be welcome.” The money from SOUP would go directly to provide materials and space for these projects. Then the audience voted, with Wells Community Network receiving £500. The other three good causes went away with £150 each. Also there were the Bishop of Bath and Wells and the Dean of Wells Cathedral who were both full of praise for SOUP. Introducing the presenters and running the show were SOUP stalwarts Paddy O’Hagan and Cathy Judge who thanked this SOUP’s sponsor, Chubb Bulleid. n The next Soup will be in Wells Cathedral on Saturday, 21st November at 12.40pm for a 1pm start.

Email: sales@wellsvoice.co.uk

wellsvoice

October 2026

n NEWS Mayoresses and consorts get their place on the board THE CONTRIBUTION of Wells’ mayoresses and consorts has been recognised with a new board in the Town Hall listing those who have supported the city’s mayors since 1974. The board was unveiled at a special event in the Town Hall on Tuesday, 22nd September, hosted by current mayor, Cllr Denise Denis and former mayor, Cllr Louis Agabani. Previous mayors, mayoresses and consorts attended the event to see their names added to the new board. Louis arranged for the board to be created following his own year as mayor, when he came to appreciate just how much support he received from his mayoress, Mary-Ellen Nowell. “I underestimated how important Mary-Ellen would be during my year as mayor,” said Louis. “The amount of work

The event, hosted by Cllr Louis Agabani, was a great opportunity for previous mayors, consorts and mayoresses to meet up she did making sure I was on time, my tie was straight and my chains were on – it was an amazing amount of work. “All the consorts and mayoresses are phenomenal, and

I felt very guilty that when my year finished I would have my name up on a board and MaryEllen wouldn’t. So really this is my way of saying thank you to her.”

The new board now hangs alongside the existing mayor’s board in the Town Hall. Cllr Denis said it was a fitting way to acknowledge the support given to mayors during their time in office. “We, the mayors, are so appreciative of all the support we get from our consorts and mayoresses, and I think it’s jolly good we’ve now got a board to show that.”

ROSIE A lovely girl with so much love to give

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This beautiful girl is seven-year-old Rosie, and although she has been advertised for some time there has only been one enquiry. Such a shame, as in the right home she has so much love to give. Rosie came into care after she became stressed by changes in her household. With time and patience she settled in and is now very affectionate with her fosterer. She is looking for an experienced cat owner who will be patient with her, as she finds changes to her environment hard. Once you’ve earned that trust she’s a happy girl who purrs non-stop and loves to be on your lap. She’s looking for a home with no other pets and with no resident or visiting children. She has been an indoor-only cat her whole life, and as she has no experience with the outdoor world or roads, her new home must be in a quiet rural area well away from any fast, busy or main roads. If you think you can offer Rosie a new home, fill out an online application form or phone Gill on 01749 850660.

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wellsvoice

October 2026

n NEWS

Falklands history preserved in Wells

By Philip Welch THE FALKLAND Islands are back in the news locally as well as internationally. Argentine President Javier Milei says he will sanction oil companies drilling in the British overseas territory in the southwest Atlantic Ocean after telling his nation: “the Malvinas are Argentine, historically and legally. There’s no debate about that.” Meanwhile, back in Wells there’s a huge book of newspaper cuttings capturing the story of the Argentinian invasion of the Falklands in 1982 and the British task force sent by Margaret Thatcher to evict them. This large book was brought to the UK by Annabelle Spencer and Brian Paul in 1985. After working on the Falkland Islands from 1974, they set up the Falkland Islands Agency in

Maria Gregg with the Falklands book alongside the curator, David Walker Tucker Street, the street where they were both born, to publicise the Islands in Britain, promoting Falkland Islands goods and fostering relations. Sir Rex Hunt, former Governor of the Islands, officially

opened the shop on 21st May 1987, accompanied by the Wells Town Band. After Annabelle died and the shop closed, Maria Gregg from the Wells Royal British Legion approached the Spencer family

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wanting to rescue the items that were on display in the Falklands shop window. “They showed me this fantastic scrapbook,” said Maria, “an everyday account of the war. “Being a daughter and a wife from a military background and my dad serving in the Falklands, I was astonished and touched how one person had kept every record of what happened out there. “So my mission was to keep the story alive and make people today aware that so many of our loved ones gave their life in this forgotten war. And one way to tell the story was to get the book displayed at Wells Museum.” Following Maria’s efforts, the executors of Annabelle’s will donated the book to the museum whose curator David Walker said: “We are very pleased to help continue the link between Wells and the Falkland Islands.”

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wellsvoice

October 2026

n NEWS

MP lends support to junction campaign TESSA Munt MP joined campaigners at the junction of Ash lane, College Road and the A39 to see for herself how dangerous it is. “I’ve been trying to get something done about this for years, as it was a thing when I was MP for Wells before,” she said. “My personal preference has always been that we put something higher up the road from the junction and also something past it, so that people are able to cross in safety either side of it – something like a pelican crossing. I would love to have the speed reduced here. “Something needs to change. We know there are more homes coming to Wells and there will be loads of people who want to send their children in this direction, either for the Blue or Stoberry. Getting kids to school in Wells isn’t always easy and we should be doing everything we can to help.

Campaigners and MP Tessa Munt at the controversial junction Campaigners say that now schools are back, families once again have to cross the junction twice a day without any safe pedestrian crossing to use. To join this campaign email crossingabc@hotmail.com.

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UNO Adorable kitten that’s full of love Uno is an approximately 13-week-old male kitten who is looking for his forever home. We don’t know his history as he was found in a garden with a badly injured tail. Fortunately he has recovered well other than some scarring. Uno is a normal, active, playful youngster who can be a little shy to start with but when he trusts you is purry and affectionate. He needs a quiet home with someone who is around a lot of the time to give him lots of attention. He would probably be fine with other cat-friendly pets as long as slow introductions were taken. Uno would love to be able to explore outside when he’s big enough, so a home with direct access to a garden and green space is a must, well away from busy main roads and fast country lanes. Sensible older children would probably be fine as long as they know to give him space while he settles in. Because we need to be able to keep a check on his tail healing we would like to rehome him in driving distance of Shepton/Wells. Interested? Please fill out the application form on www.cats.org.uk/glastonbury

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wellsvoice

October 2026

n NEWS n NOTES FROM THE MAYOR Defibrillator donated to Wells A NEW defibrillator has been donated to Wells in memory of the late Cllr Tony Robbins, following a gruelling fundraising challenge involving 27 climbs of the Old Bristol Road. Somerset councillor Cllr Edric Hobbs and his team donated the defibrillator, which was formally accepted by Wells mayor Cllr Denise Denis on behalf of Wells Town Hall and Wells City Council, together with Cllr Georgie Robbins on behalf of Tony’s family. The fundraising challenge was undertaken on 20th June by Edric, who cycled up the Old Bristol Road between Wells and Priddy 27 times in just 16 hours. The climbs amounted to a total ascent of 18,000 feet – higher than Everest Base Camp – as Edric raised money towards the purchase of the defibrillator. The mayor thanked Cllr Hobbs and his team for the donation.

You will find the defibrillator located in the Town Hall “Thank you to Cllr Hobbs and his team for making this possible, and our sincere thanks on behalf of Wells Town Hall.” The defibrillator has been given in memory of Tony Robbins, a former councillor, and was described as a “thoughtful and meaningful gift” by the mayor.

The Mayor Making Ceremony usually takes place in May each year

What is it like to be the Mayor of Wells? When I meet people I am frequently asked if I am enjoying being the Mayor of Wells, how did I become mayor, and for how long? So that leads me nicely into this letter. I am very much enjoying my role, and see it as a privilege and wonderful opportunity to meet a lot of different organisations. Over the last three months I have met with runners at the Festival of Running, classic car collectors at the Mendip Classic and Vintage Car Show, motor bikers at the Hare and Tortoise Race, Sikhs, Ambassadors, residents of the Fletcher House Care Home and Air Cadets as well as organisations such as the City of Wells Lions, Rotary, Visit Wells, Moat Boat Race and art exhibitions such as the Beyond Horizons at Stoberry Park (on until 4th October). I have been accompanied by my Mayoress, Olivia Denis, for some of these events, and also other councillors, and my Sergeant at Mace on others. I would like to thank everyone who has supported me one way or another to carry out these visits.

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I was elected to Wells City Council as a councillor five years ago, and was voted to be deputy mayor by my fellow councillors after four years. Mayors usually serve for one year, after the role of deputy mayor. It is a civic role mainly but also, as the chair of council, the mayor chairs the full council meetings once a month. Councillors serve on various committees to direct and oversee the work of the city council, such as finance, planning, estates, outside spaces, staffing, civic and archives. These meetings take part in the evenings at Wells Town Hall, and members of the public are welcome to attend. Agendas and dates of meetings can be found on Wells City Council’s website under ‘About your Council’ then ‘Meetings, or from the Reception Desk: 01749 673091. In this coming year we will be facing local elections. If you are interested in becoming a councillor then please come to some of the committee meetings to learn more about local government at this level. Denise Denis – 652nd Mayor of Wells

Email: sales@wellsvoice.co.uk

wellsvoice

October 2026

n NEWS

Volunteers sought to join Wells Speedwatch WELLS residents are being invited to play a direct role in keeping local roads safer, as Councillor Shirley Eden begins assembling a volunteer team to launch Wells Speedwatch. Speedwatch schemes allow trained volunteers to work alongside police to monitor vehicle speeds in areas where residents have raised concerns. The aim is to reduce speeding, encourage safer driving, and protect pedestrians and cyclists. Councillor Eden said Wells is ready for its own team. “We

know speeding is a persistent issue in parts of the city. I know from my volunteering work with the Accessible Wells campaign and my former career as a police officer that safer roads will make a huge difference, particularly for wheelchair and mobility scooter users, for people with impaired eye sight, frail elderly residents, parents with pushchairs and young children.” Volunteers will receive full training, use police‑approved equipment, and operate only in agreed locations. Drivers

recorded exceeding the limit receive advisory letters, helping reinforce safer habits without issuing penalties. Councillor Eden hopes Wells residents who care about road safety will step forward. “You don’t need specialist skills – just reliability, a bit of time, and a commitment to making Wells safer for everyone.” Anyone interested in joining Wells Speedwatch, or would just like some more information, is encouraged to contact Councillor Eden by email at s.eden@

wells.gov.uk, or you can leave a message for her at reception in Wells Town Hall.

Amnesty group keeps up the campaign for Chaima THE WELLS Amnesty International group continues to campaign for the release of Tunisian prisoner of conscience, Chaima Issa. At Priddy Fayre in July, the group held an information stall

where 44 letters calling for her release were signed and sent to the Tunisian Embassy in London. The group’s annual street collection in Wells in August raised £323.74 for Amnesty, and

members thank collectors and the public for their generosity. Following its first Teams meeting in May, the group will meet again in September, both in person and online. It will also have a stall at Strode

College’s Freshers’ Fayre to raise awareness of human rights issues. For more info, contact Luna Pinto Baker at lrpb2025@ outlook.com or Ed Standhaft at edstandhaft@sky.com.

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Email: news@wellsvoice.co.uk

wellsvoice

October 2026

n NEWS

20 years at the cutting edge A WELLS barbershop is celebrating 20 years in business this month in style. Wolf Barbers on Broad Street, which is owned and run by Chris Young, first opened as Chop Barbers on 31st October 2006, before changing its name five years ago. The business currently has a team of five and has won a string of accolades in recent years, including Barbershop of the Year at the British Hair and Beauty Awards in 2024, followed by Gold awards for Barbershop of the Year and Customer Service in 2025. It was also a South West regional winner in 2023. The barbershop has become a familiar supporter of the Wells community, backing local rugby and football clubs as well as Wells Pride, Heads Up and the Mendip Mental Health Hike. Its community work was also recognised with a Community

Champion of the Year award for helping to set up the hike and supporting other charity events. Chris started barbering 26 years ago and says opening his own shop had been his ambition from the beginning. “I started out in a very standard barbershop 26 years ago. Really basic. 10 to 15 minutes a haircut, churning through them as the cuts were pretty basic then,” he said. 20 years after achieving his ambition, he has no immediate plans to expand Wolf Barbers beyond Wells. “I get asked a lot if that’s something I want to do, and that would be great but at the same time it would dilute what we do here,” he said. “Wolf Barbers works because of the whole team, and I think if we broke that up to launch another branch then it would potentially spoil what we do here.

To advertise, contact Dean on 07809 121434

Chris Young (left) and the Wolf Crew “I just want to make this place the best it can possibly be, and hopefully with the refit we’re currently doing and things like that, we’re getting there.” Wolf Barbers will mark its 20th anniversary on 31st October with a celebration party at the White Hart on 7th November.

Email: sales@wellsvoice.co.uk

wellsvoice

October 2026

n NEWS

Strawberry Line voted Britain’s favourite By Daniel Mumby

Local Democracy Reporter THE STRAWBERRY Line has been crowned Britain’s favourite path following a public vote organised by the Ramblers. More than 20 miles of the planned 29-mile route have already been completed. It currently runs uninterrupted from Yatton railway station to Labourham Way in Cheddar and will eventually extend all the way to Collett Park in Shepton Mallet. The Strawberry Line Society has been working with Somerset Council and landowners to deliver the remaining sections, with the council announcing in early April that £730,000 would be provided towards this and other rural routes over the next two years. The Strawberry Line was the only finalist from the South West in the Ramblers vote, winning ahead of the West Highland Way near Loch Lomond in Scotland, the Holy Island Causeway near Lindisfarne in Northumberland, and Pinnacle Hill in the Malvern Hills in Worcestershire. The path was nominated by Amanda Jane Baldwin, who lives in Winscombe, near Cheddar. She said: “The fact that this path is on my doorstep means everything to me.” Councillor Ros Wyke, Somerset Council’s associate portfolio holder for active travel, has championed the path for many years, setting aside funding to deliver numerous missing links as the final leader of Mendip District Council before its abolition in April 2023. Ms Wyke, whose Mendip West division includes a significant section of the route, said: “I could not be prouder. There was stiff competition for the title. “The Strawberry Line submission emphasised that it is special in that it is a live community project supported by local authorities, as well as hundreds of volunteers who give thousands of hours each year to promote, develop and maintain the path. “It’s not only a path to discover and enjoy Somerset countryside, wildlife, and our diverse rural settlements, but also a greatly

Picture: The Strawberry Line Society

A map of the current and proposed Somerset Circle route valued off road route for local residents. Meanwhile, work is continuing to fill the remaining gaps in the Strawberry Line, including sections around Wells and Shepton Mallet. The Strawberry Line Society has outlined its ambitions for the next 12 months, which include extending the route from Cheddar towards Rodney Stoke and pushing west from Shepton Mallet towards Dulcote. A spokesperson said: “In partnership through Somerset Council and Greenways & Cycle Routes, we hope in 2027 to extend from Cheddar towards Rodney Stoke using existing lanes, push west from Shepton Mallet towards Dulcote from Ridge Road under Stump Cross Bridge and complete phase two of four to connect Easton with the Haybridge area of Wells. As we approach our 50th anniversary in 2027, there’s a lot going on. We are closing the gaps, metre by metre.” To find out more about the Strawberry Line, including how to volunteer, visit www. thestrawberryline.org.uk.

Got News? Call 07809 121434

Email: news@wellsvoice.co.uk

wellsvoice

October 2026

n NEWS

The evening event started off with some delicious food, followed by some fun party games and a spot of fundraising for three worthy charities

Three charities and one big-hearted party By Philip Welch ONE Party – Three Charities… That’s how the invitation read to the event in Wells Museum with free food and drinks provided. The purpose, apart from having fun, was to raise money for three good causes close to the hearts of the organisers.

“A mountain of food will be available in Polish Buffet style so a light lunch at most is recommended,” said Paul Wiltshire who runs the annual fundraising evening event with his wife Ewa. Their family had been affected by cancer, Alzheimer’s and Parkinsons, so all the guests

donated to the relevant health charities through a web link, a QR code and a more traditional big white bucket. But they also encouraged the 40 guests to bring a bottle, which they did, and after most of the food was happily consumed lively party games with prizes followed.

More than £1,100 was raised at the party for the charities Marie Curie, the Wells Dementia Action Alliance and Winchester Hospice in memory of the family members Paul and Ewa have lost. Here is the link if you wish to contribute: www.givewheel. com/fundraising/18312/ one-party-three-charities.

A co-educational prep school offering both day and boarding. All Hallows is conveniently situated just a 20-minute drive from Wells.

Join us for our next Open Morning 10th October 2026 FIND US All Hallows School, Cranmore Hall, Somerset, BA4 4SF www.allhallowsschool.co.uk CONTACT US 01749 881609 admissions@allhallowsschool.co.uk To advertise, contact Dean on 07809 121434

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wellsvoice

October 2026

n FEATURE Spotted in Wells Time for a new feature in Wells Voice, but what exactly is it? A lot of photos are uploaded to the Wells Community Facebook page every day, and occasionally one stands out. This – with the owner’s permission – is where we’ll be showcasing them. The first photo comes from Sue Williams, and shows her father and husband weighing out the sixpenny pieces used to help buy the boys’ club building, which is now the Wells Film Centre. Sue’s father used to own the butcher’s shop in St Cuthbert’s Street and kept the bottle on the counter of his shop until it was full.

C O U R A G E - C O M PA S S I O N - C R E AT I V I T Y Specialist Independent Day School Co-Educational Age 7-18 Ashcott, Somerset

Scan for our Expression of Interest Form

“My new teachers are lovely. I feel I can be myself and people understand me. I find learning easier because of the way things are taught. I feel safe.” Reflection by a new Y8 student, 2025

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Email: news@wellsvoice.co.uk

wellsvoice

October 2026

n NEWS

Siblings set sights on epic Scout adventure

News from St Cuthbert (Out) Find out what’s going on each month in the St Cuthbert (Out) Parish Council. n Five members of the council now hold a Highways Safety Awareness certificate, authorising them to do projects such as litter-picking – look out for the hi-vis!

By Philip Welch WELLS siblings Emma and Jack are preparing for the adventure of a lifetime, but first they need to raise £5,000. They are taking on a huge fundraising challenge after being selected to take part in an international Scout adventure next summer. Emma, 15, and Jack, 13, are both members of Wells Pheasants Explorer Scouts and have been given the opportunity to take part in SomerTREK 2027, organised by Somerset County Scouts. SomerTREK will see a group of up to 53 Explorer Scouts from across the county travel across Europe by coach from 31st July to 16th August 2027, accompanied by experienced Scout leaders. The trip is designed to give young people an exciting first experience of international Scouting, while developing confidence, independence, leadership and teamwork. One of the highlights of the trip will be a week at the Kandersteg International Scout Centre (KISC) in Switzerland, a world-famous Scout centre often described as a ‘Permanent Mini Jamboree’. Here, the Somerset Explorers will be surrounded by Scouts from around the world and will

n Grants have been awarded or pledged recently to Wells Skate Park, Wells Community Network for their community transport project, the Strawberry Line for route signage and a WOWfest concert at St Mary Magdalene, Wookey Hole. Grant applications are reviewed quarterly so please get in touch with Kym on rfo@ stcuthbertout-pc.gov. uk or 07925 711984 for both community or environmental grants and criteria.

Emma and Jack are fundraising for the trip of a lifetime have the opportunity to take part in outdoor adventures, hiking in the Alps, international activities, cultural exchanges and Scout skills. The adventure will also involve plenty of walking and a significant physical challenge, with participants aiming to complete a 2,000-metre ascent during the expedition. Each Explorer attending is required to raise £2,500, meaning

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Emma and Jack need to raise £5,000 between them by June of next year. The money will contribute towards travel, accommodation and activities. The teenagers are fundraising themselves. For example, by selling books and computer games. And they have set up individual JustGiving pages. Emma’s is www.justgiving. com/page/emma-kirbyshirra. Jack’s page is www. justgiving.com/page/jackkirby-shirra1. “We’re determined to work hard and raise as much as we can ourselves,” said Emma and Jack. “It would be amazing to reach our target and be able to experience SomerTREK together.” Anyone who would like to support the fundraising, or a local business interested in donating a prize or offering sponsorship, can email roadto somertrek2027@gmail.com. n Follow them on Facebook and search for ‘Emma & Jack’s Road to SOMERtrek 2027’.

n Plenty of residents in the East Ward (the Horringtons and Haydon) have been managing the difficult arrangements and diversions around the Whitnell Corner roundabout works. The council has coordinated with Somerset Highways, who are aware of issues and now providing fortnightly updates of works. A Speed Indicator Device has been installed on the Old Frome Road in East Horrington. n In planning news, a representative from Curo – the not-for-profit housing association and house builder based in Bath – made a presentation on the newly acquired development site at the western end of Wookey Hole Road/Glencot Road; the parish council will receive the submitted application in due course. Representatives from both Wells City Council and St Cuthbert (Out) continue to meet to discuss common themes. n There are two councillor vacancies for the North Ward (Wookey Hole, Milton, Easton) and South Ward (Dinder, Dulcote and Worminster) for community-minded, energetic residents. Get in touch! www.stcuthbertout-pc.gov.uk

Email: sales@wellsvoice.co.uk

wellsvoice

October 2026

n NEWS The ‘breast friends’ fundraiser SOUTH Horrington residents came together for a community cream tea at the Old Cricket Pavilion, organised by neighbours Gail and Heather, who both recently completed treatment for breast cancer. Living just two doors apart, the pair supported one another throughout their treatment and have since become affectionately known as ‘breast friends’. Their shared experience inspired them to organise an event that celebrated community spirit while raising funds for Breast Cancer Now. Speaking after the event, Gail said: “Heather and I leaned on each other through every step of treatment. Hosting this cream tea felt like a way to give something back — to thank our community for standing by us and to support others facing breast cancer.” The organisers thanked Rachel Richards, chairman of

Samaritans volunteers learn valuable skills and make new friendships

(Left to right) Organisers Heather, Gail, Millie and Mary Wells and Horrington Cricket Club, who provided chairs, tables and games for the event. Thanks also went to The Hive in Shepton Mallet, which donated a selection of homemade biscuits. The event raised £663 for Breast Cancer Now, with donations remaining open until the end of November via The Pavilion’s JustGiving page at www.justgiving.com/page/ thepavilion.

Could you be a listening ear? BATH & District Samaritans is looking for more volunteers to join its team providing support to people looking for help and who are finding life to be a struggle. Volunteers, who come from across Bath, Wiltshire and Somerset, answer calls from the charity’s offices in Upper Bristol Road, Bath, offering a listening ear rather than providing answers or trying to fix problems. New recruits receive training and ongoing support and are

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asked to commit to a minimum of one three-hour shift a week. They work alongside a fellow volunteer, with support available from team leaders. The branch holds regular Finding Out More sessions, both in person and online, so applicants can decide if they wish to proceed further. Anyone interested in finding out more about volunteering with Bath & District Samaritans can email bath.recruitment@ samaritans.org.

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16 WELLS VETS CASE FILES

October 2026

n NEWS

The twinning event at the Wurstmarkt wine festival was a huge success Despite the dramatic fall, Dotty has thankfully made a complete recovery

Four pins and a lot of purrseverance for a young adventurer THE ADVENTUROUS young cat Dotty has made a full recovery after an unfortunate fall from an upstairs window, thanks to careful surgery and four tiny pieces of metal. At just 11 months old, Dotty is at an age when exploring is firmly on the agenda. Unfortunately, one of her adventures took an unexpected turn when she fell from an upper-floor window. Dotty was quickly brought into the practice by her concerned owner. She was lame on her left hind leg and clearly uncomfortable. Given the nature of the fall, there were concerns that she may have injured her leg, pelvis, or both, so X-rays were advised. Dotty was anaesthetised and radiographs were taken. Thankfully, her pelvis was completely fine. However, the X-rays revealed a fracture at the end of her left femur, or thigh bone. The injury was a distal femoral physeal fracture. In young animals, the bones are still growing and contain softer areas known as growth plates. With this type of fracture, the rounded lower part of the femur that forms the knee joint becomes displaced because the growth plate is softer and more vulnerable than mature bone. These fractures require prompt treatment, as damage to a growth plate can potentially cause abnormal bone growth and problems with the limb later in life. Dotty’s surgery was therefore scheduled for early the following morning. A cross-pin procedure was performed. This involved carefully realigning the fractured bone before placing metal surgical pins across the fracture in a crossed pattern to hold

everything securely while it healed. Four wires were placed, leaving the fracture stable. Following surgery, Dotty remained in hospital for pain relief and monitoring before returning home. Her owner was given an exercise and rehabilitation plan, which presented another challenge: persuading an energetic young cat to rest! Dotty began with periods of cage rest before gradually progressing to rest in a small room. Around four to five weeks later, she returned to our Wells practice for further X-rays. The results were excellent. The fracture had remained stable and showed clear signs of healing. Although Dotty still had a mild limp, this was expected after several weeks of restricted exercise. With the fracture looking strong, she was allowed to gradually increase her activity. Her freedom was extended to the whole house and eventually upstairs, although with one important rule: no more investigating the windows! Four weeks later, we received the update everyone had hoped for. Dotty had continued to improve and was back to normal. From a frightening fall to successful surgery and recovery, Dotty’s story highlights the resilience of young animals and the importance of prompt veterinary assessment after an accident. Today, she is back to exploring, playing and enjoying life, thanks to four well-positioned pieces of metal and dedicated care from her owners. Martin Law BVSc BSAVA PGCertSAS MRCVS Veterinary Surgeon Small Animal Director

Wells Vets, 3 Cathedral Avenue, Wells, Somerset, BA5 1FD

Tel: 01749 678420

A postcard from Bad Dürkheim I WAS delighted and honoured to represent our Mayor Denise Denis at the famous Wurstmarkt wine festival in our twin town of Bad Dürkheim. Accompanied by Tony D’Ovidio representing the Chairman John North and the Wells Twinning Association, and Pat Fabiano representing the Wells Carnival with her daughter Claire, we were warmly welcomed by all our friends and the Mayor of Bad Dürkheim, Natalie Bauernschmitt. Occasions like this are particularly special because they give us the opportunity to come together, enjoy each other’s company, celebrate our traditions and strengthen the bonds between us. The festival began Saturday afternoon with a traditional opening parade. It starts with a concert by brass bands on the Schlossplatz, followed by a colourful procession of musicians, the town council, wine-growers and the festively decorated wine wagons down to the festival meadow. Once on the Wurstmarkt grounds, the Mayor

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officially taps the first wine barrel and the wine is distributed to the historic Schubkarchstände. The Wurstmarkt itself has a remarkable history. It began in 1417 as the Michaelismarkt, a market for wine growers linked to the pilgrimage on the Michaelsberg. It was renamed the Wurstmarkt, or ‘sausage market’, in 1832 due to the huge volume of sausages sold. Today it is recognised as the world’s largest wine festival, attracting over 600,000 visitors across nine days with around 300 local wines. On Saturday morning 12th September we were taken through the wonderful gardens to the new centre, the Salinarium Therme. We also visited the beautiful St. Michael Chapel on top of the Michelsberg. Inside the little chapel there is a piece of cornice from Wells Cathedral. On Saturday evening we were invited to the official dinner at the Salinarium Therme where we met twinning delegates from other countries. Our heartfelt thanks to Bad Dürkheim for their wonderful hospitality. Julie Bollini

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wellsvoice

October 2026

n FEATURE

Wookey Hole – the home of Halloween Neil Morgan, a cave guide supervisor at Wookey Hole, brings us another fascinating regular slice of history from the caves… When you think of Halloween, you might think of vampires, pumpkins, ghosts, trick-or-treating, and witches. And few witches are as famous as the Witch of Wookey Hole, a legend more than a thousand years in the making. In 1923, the witch took centre stage in a pageant at Stoberry Park, Wells. It told the history of Wookey Hole Caves from the Iron Age through to the Romans, the witch and modern times. Herbert Balch, the well-known Mendip cave explorer and amateur archaeologist, devised the pageant, with around 500 performers taking part. It was staged to help raise funds for a permanent hall for the Wells Women’s Institute. The Witch of Wookey episode was written by Mrs Arthur Stallard and produced by Miss Hilda Perkins, who also appeared as the Witch of Wookey Hole. The episode was performed

mainly by Wookey Hole residents, including children. Thousands of people attended the pageant, which ran over two days between Tuesday 24th and Wednesday 25th July, 1923. It’s little wonder that Wookey Hole Caves is known as the home of Halloween. The village also keeps the spirit alive (no pun intended) with its Halloween Scarecrow Competition. Spooky scarecrows are displayed around the village throughout the October half-term holiday, which this year is from the 25th of October to the 1st November. Check Wookey Hole social media for more details.

The Home of Halloween Looking for a spectacular family day out near Bristol this Halloween? Just under an hour from the city, Wookey Hole is transforming into the annual Home of Halloween, packed with magical adventures, spooky surprises and unforgettable family fun. Deep beneath the Mendip Hills, explore the famous Wookey Hole Caves and experience spectacular immersive

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Miss Hilda Perkins, the first person to play the Witch of Wookey Hole? projections that bring the legendary story of the Witch of Wookey Hole to life among ancient rock formations. Follow a mysterious pumpkin trail, solve the Witch’s puzzle and claim a Halloween prize at the end. The Witch herself will be making special appearances throughout the event, and she would love families to

come dressed in their best Halloween costume. Every family who visits and takes a photo of themselves in fancy dress and tags Wookey Hole on Facebook or Instagram, will be entered into a daily prize draw to win a year-long Wookey Hole membership, including entry to the attraction’s brand-new Winter Wonderland experience. There’s even more spooky fun above ground, including the all-new Monster’s Ball Circus Show, Halloweenthemed Monster Golf, a thrilling 4D cinema adventure, giant indoor soft play and dozens of other family attractions, all included in your ticket. Running on weekends from 3rd October and daily throughout the school holidays from 24th October to 1st November, Wookey Hole offers one of the South West’s most magical Halloween experiences for families visiting from Bristol and beyond. Book your Halloween adventure and discover why Wookey Hole is the Home of Halloween. Neil Morgan, Cave Guide Supervisor

Email: news@wellsvoice.co.uk

wellsvoice

October 2026

n NEWS NEWS IN BRIEF n Litter picking event There is a litter picking event planned for the weekend of the 10th-11th of October, including a communal pick on the Sunday at 10.30am – meet at the Town Hall.

n Another Café? A planning application to turn 8 Queen Street – which has been empty since Bike City closed at the start of 2025 – into a café has been submitted to the council. Head to www.wells.gov.uk/ meetings to view this and other applications.

n Bravo for Rosa TAKING A BREAK: Martyn Starnes has been in the news for driving and donating ambulances to Ukraine. Now he has told an audience at the Wells Men’s Breakfast about his career in professional football management which includes Bristol Rovers, Swindon Town, Plymouth Argyle and Yeovil Town. There were plenty of funny stories about well-known players in his talk on 5th September.

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Rosa Simms-Preston, a former pupil of the Blue School, is now starring in the new series of the TV show, Below Deck on the Bravo station.

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THE BISHOP’S PALACE

Christmas

Artisan Market

14 & 15 NOVEMBER

L MAKER A C S LO EVAL PALAC I D E ME S GIFT I A M T DE IS R AS H C CLECTIC S E 0 7 TA R LL VE S DRINK Z & O ON D O E FO

Entry £9. £7.50 after 2pm. Tickets include admission to the Palace, Gardens and Artisan Market

www.bishopspalace.org.uk The event is a fundraising event in aid of The Palace Trust

10am - 4pm

wellsvoice

20 Legal guidance with Chubb Bulleid

The different types of wills By Kelli Pimm and Layla Nash-Cree

What is a Will? A will is a legal document which allows you to specify how your property and assets are distributed after your death. It can also be used to appoint guardians for minor children. Without a will, your estate would be dealt with under the intestacy rules, which might not be what you want and can take longer to process. There are many different types of wills, and deciding on what suits you best depends on your circumstances.

Simple Will This type of will allows one person to set out in simple terms how they would like their estate to be distributed after death. It can appoint executors, gift specific items, appoint guardians for children, set out funeral wishes and how you want your estate to be divided between friends, family or charities.

Simple Mirror Wills

Often prepared by couples, these are two separate, simple wills which mirror each other. For example, a couple may leave everything to the survivor of them when the first of them dies, with the estate then being divided equally between their children when the second of them dies. Mirror wills can be more cost effective than two single wills. If you prepare mirror wills, you are each still free to change your will at any time.

Wills containing a Trust These types of will are more complex. A trust is a legal structure to hold assets and offer increased protection for beneficiaries. Some reasons you might include a Trust in your wills are:

October 2026

n NEWS

n To protect children from a previous relationship n To protect children in the event of remarriage n To protect assets for a vulnerable or disabled beneficiary n To protect assets for future generations n To help with inheritance tax planning Some key types of will trust are:

Life Interest Trust Wills These wills can be used to place assets into trust to provide a benefit or income to beneficiaries during their lifetime. You can leave a life interest in property or other assets. For instance, you may want to grant your partner the right to continue living in your property after your death while stipulating that other beneficiaries should ultimately inherit the property.

Right of Occupation A type of trust which can be used to provide a beneficiary with a right to occupy property but limited to a certain period of time.

Discretionary Trust Wills A flexible trust which can be used to benefit a number of potential beneficiaries. They can also be used to protect assets for a vulnerable or disabled beneficiary. Trustees are appointed to look after the assets and decide when and how to release these to beneficiaries. Trustees can consider changes of circumstances after your death and you can provide a letter of wishes to guide them. If you are looking to make a will or would like to discuss this in more detail, please get in touch so that one of our experts can guide you through the process. n Kelli Pimm is an associate and Layla NashCree a trainee solicitor with Chubb Bulleid, who have offices in Wells, Street, Somerton and Taunton. Phone 01749 836100.

TOP OF THE CROPS: Tessa Munt MP at the Dinder and Dulcote Flower & Produce Show, where she kindly awarded the prizes. With her is Julie CostleyWhite, chair of Dinder Village Hall.

n ADVERTISING FEATURE

New home for Slimming World! Exciting news for Slimming World Wells! From 21st October, we’ll be moving to our new home at Wells Football Club, Rowdens Road, Wells, BA5 1TU. I’m really excited about the move and hope our new venue will make coming along to group even easier. It’s simple to find, has free parking, and the car park and surrounding roads are well lit, making it particularly convenient for our evening members. Even better, our group times are staying exactly the same: 9am, 11am, 5.30pm and 7pm, so there’s no need to change the day or time that works for you.

If the previous venue or parking arrangements have ever been a reason you’ve not joined us, we’d love you to come along and discover what you can achieve with Slimming World in our new home! The move also gives us something extra to celebrate, as it coincides with my first anniversary as a Slimming World Consultant in Wells. It’s been a wonderful year of supporting members, celebrating their successes and sharing the ups and downs of their journeys. I can’t wait to welcome you to our new venue and continue this journey together! Ally

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Email: sales@wellsvoice.co.uk

wellsvoice

October 2026

n FEATURE

The enduring art of Philippa Threlfall Ingrid Sofrin takes a closer look at the life and work of the Wellsbased artist, Philippa Threlfall. PHILIPPA Threlfall’s distinctive murals have been installed on walls all over the country, often commissioned by banks, building societies and large corporations. At a summer u3a talk in the Wells & Mendip Museum, Philippa described her life’s work, showing pictures of her murals – some of which have now vanished without trace. Some date back to the 1960s, and often the buildings they were displayed on have been demolished. Sometimes the murals are relocated, but often they are lost forever. She and her late husband Kennedy Collings, a Cambridge historian, made more than 100 ceramic murals together over many decades. Kennedy’s skills lay in materials and techniques, and Philippa’s were in design and modelling. At the large workshop they built behind their medieval cottage in Tor Street, close to the cathedral, they worked out new and original approaches to making relief ceramic murals. Their cottage had been a cider house called Ye Blacke Dogge in the 17th century, so they called their new venture Black Dog. Now 86, and not in the best of health, Philippa is still very much involved in the business, and has been trying to discover the fate

Based on a plan of Wells from nearly 300 years ago, this map mural can Picture: Ingrid Sofrin be found on the wall of Wells’ Tesco supermarket of some of the murals that have disappeared. After their son Daniel put out an appeal for information about the lost murals, someone got in touch to say he had bought a smaller example of her work in a secondhand shop in South London and installed it on a patio wall in his garden, where it had been much admired for 30 years. Many Wells Tesco shoppers will be familiar with Philippa’s giant mural of the city, which is on show on a side wall of the supermarket. Her work can also be seen in the grounds of the Wells & Mendip Museum.

One huge mural of the buildings of Bradford and Bingley was originally commissioned by the Bradford & Bingley Building Society, but is now on permanent display at the prestigious Salts Mill gallery complex at Saltaire in West Yorkshire. In Bristol, her Exploration obelisk, standing 18 feet high and topped with a sphere, is still in place at Redcliff Quay. In Taunton, three giant toads she made for the Old Market Shopping Centre were put into storage when the centre was revamped, but were later reinstalled in Victoria Park in the town. Philippa and friends

restored them some years ago, and they are a popular feature in the park, climbed on by countless children. Another survivor is her Plymouth map, showing the Hoe in Elizabethan times. It was installed in an underpass, but resited to central Plymouth in 2009. In the 1970s, Black Dog decorative tiles became best sellers in the cathedral shop, and led to new designs being developed, inspired by other churches and cathedrals, often incorporating quotes or blessings. Her son Daniel now runs the business from his workshop in Bath, and the decorative tiles Philippa designs still sell through heritage shops around the UK, as well as worldwide to mail order customers.

Philippa Thelfall

Picture: Ingrid Sofrin

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wellsvoice

October 2026

n LETTERS

How to get involved for Wells Kindness Week Wells may be a small city, but it has a big heart. Residents and organisations across our city so often show kindness, and we thought it would be good to celebrate this here as our part of World Kindness Week from the 9th to the 15th of November. Maybe you’d like to use the theme of kindness to do something special then as part of our own Wells Kindness Week, or simply showcase the kind work you do throughout the year. It could be anything from a simple random act of kindness like saying a cheery hello to a passerby, or an organised activity – like creating bunting with kind words on it – or your group helping out another group, to writing someone a letter showing your appreciation, or spending some time simply being kind to yourself. The Bishop’s Palace will be sharing some ideas and resources on their website from midOctober, plus they will be running

n NEWS some activities during Wells Kindness Week, including visiting a local nursing home with some fun exhibits for the residents to enjoy. Do email me on siobhan. goodwin@bishopspalace. org.uk if you are thinking of doing something in Kindness Week. Siobhan Goodwin Community Engagement Manager Bishop’s Palace

Get out and walk this October Bowel cancer is the UK’s fourth most common cancer, but it can be treatable, curable and even preventable. Knowing the symptoms – like blood in your poo, bleeding from your bottom or changes in your bowel habits – is really important. Being active can also help reduce your risk. Getting 150 minutes of exercise a week can reduce your risk of bowel cancer by around 20 per cent, yet almost a third of people in the UK don’t know this. That’s why we’re asking people to Walk 60 Miles in October – that’s less than two miles a day – at your own pace, wherever and whenever suits you. Sign up at bowelcanceruk. org.uk, get walking and fundraise for Bowel Cancer UK. Every mile and every pound could help save lives. Yours sincerely, Genevieve Edwards Chief Executive Bowel Cancer UK

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The Intermedii Chorale put on a beautiful evening of music at St Cuthbert’s

A night of late summer music A review of the Intermedii Chorale’s Music for a Late Summer Evening concert at St Cuthbert’s Church on 31st August by Martyn Atkins. HOW best to end the hottest August ever recorded in Wells? For those crowded into St Cuthbert’s on an early evening on the Bank Holiday, the concert offered by the Intermedii Chorale provided the perfect opportunity for reflection on an extraordinary summer and preparation for the new season. This nonet of exceptionally talented musicians, with origins in Luxembourg and inspiration from renaissance Florence, presented a sparkling programme of 11 choral works from the 16th to the 21st century, deftly introduced by tenor Kerry Turner and very ably accompanied by pianist Andrea Watson.

Opening briskly with Mendelssohn’s Frohlocket, Ihr Völker auf Erden, the ensemble demonstrated their consummate musicianship in the performance of three intricate works for double choir: Giovanni Gabrieli’s Jubilate Deo, Ave Maria gratia plena by Tomas Luis de Victoria, and the glorious Bring Us, O Lord God by William Harris. Intermedii then delighted the audience of over one hundred with contemporary compositions such as Don Macdonald’s ethereal When The Earth Stands Still, and (fittingly) Paul Spicer’s Prayer of St Cuthbert. Frank Ticheli’s Earth Song provided a space for sober reflection on the planet, before Wells man Chris Vigar led the chorale in a rousing rendition of The Wellerman, the shanty providing the perfect envoi into the balmy evening sunshine.

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October 2026

n HOME AND GARDEN Local company wins award WELLS-based Erla Garden Joinery has been named Postsaver’s Approved Installer of the Year for 2026. The family-run business specialises in garden carpentry and joinery, creating fencing, decking, summer houses and bespoke outdoor structures. Founded in 2024 by owner Aiden Matterface, the company grew from his lifelong passion for woodworking, which began in his grandfather’s shed. Erla Garden Joinery joined the Postsaver Approved Installer

Programme two years ago and has since become a regular user of its timber rot protection products. The award recognised a substantial raised timber deck completed for a customer in Street. The project featured bespoke balustrades and two sets of stairs, combining practical design with high-quality craftsmanship. Postsaver rot protectors were used in the project to provide protection against timber rot at the ground line.

Notes from a wildlife garden Just like that, it started raining again. Throughout the summer, Henrietta, my dog, would step outside, look at me as if to say, “Oh gosh, you’ve put the heating on again,” and retreat indoors. Everything was too hot and crispy for her. The heat gave me time to watch red kites circling overhead. With the hay cut so early, perhaps they were watching the fields for supper or afternoon tea. Now I am grateful for the pitterpatter of ‘gardener’s rain’ – rain that can be sipped throughout the day rather than gulped at once. The pond, which almost dried out despite my topping up, is full again. White butterflies gather around the damp compost beneath my fruit trees, and two creamy-yellow butterflies – possibly clouded yellows – flirted around one another against a grey sky. Our teenage pears have become respectable young adults, and I finally gave in and picked some. Who knew a bowl of pears could be so joyful? I have deadheaded the roses in hope of another flush and am taking cuttings in earnest. I am also looking at large rainwater storage tanks. Next summer will not catch me unprepared again. The globe artichokes have made a reappearance, and I realise that they will not come to much now, but I am choosing to regard this as autumn planting, ready to disappear

underground and return in spring. Last month the ground was hard and parched; now the soil is soft and moist again. I imagine the life beneath it – microbes, worms and beetles singing for joy now that their thirst has been quenched. Mr Hog continues to commute from our house to our neighbours on a regular basis. I remind myself that these creatures were here before our houses, walls and fences; they are part of the ecosystem of life. This week I rescued a dragonfly from a spider’s web, although half its wing was gone. I placed it in the laurel, knowing I had done enough. If it dies, it will quietly return to the earth, as we all do. This month I am reading Ursula Buchan’s Garden People, filled with Valerie Finnis’ photographs of people absorbed in their gardens. Sharon Brien

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October 2026

n NEWS

New class aims to get more men on the mat

Imagine how much more fun that would be in a brand-new skatepark

Wells skatepark rolls towards target THE WELLS Skatepark Project has now raised and secured pledges of just over £367,000 towards the £500,000 needed to build the new communitydesigned skatepark, with support continuing to come from across Wells and the surrounding area. Recent fundraising has included an incredible £1,400 raised by Will Chadwick following his marathon on skates. Local businesses and organisations are also continuing to get behind the project. The Cornish Bakery, which has recently opened in Wells, has made its Mark on the Park with a £250 sponsorship. Local supporter Jamie Mochrie has also made his Mark on the Park with a £250 sponsorship. As part of the Mark on the Park campaign, supporters can have their name or business name permanently incorporated into the finished skatepark, creating a lasting record of the community that helped make it happen.

St Cuthbert (Out) Parish Council has pledged £1,000 towards the project, and we were also delighted to receive £1,500 from the High Sheriff of Somerset Charitable Trust, bringing further recognition and support from across the county. Together, these contributions demonstrate the breadth of support behind the project, from individual fundraisers and local businesses to community organisations, parish councils and charitable trusts. The project is now in the final stage of fundraising, and we need your support to get the park built. Whether you can donate, take part in Mark on the Park, organise a fundraiser, introduce us to a sponsor or help spread the word, every contribution can make a difference. If you’ve been thinking about getting involved, now is the time. Find out more at www. skatewells.org or contact us at wellsskatepark@gmail.com.

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A NEW class in Wells is aiming to encourage more men to give yoga a try. Nigel and Berit are launching a class specifically aimed at men, with the first session taking place at the Portway Annexe on Monday, 5th October at 9.15am. While yoga was developed by male yogis in India thousands of years ago, it has increasingly become associated in the West with women. The pair hope to challenge that perception and encourage more men to discover the benefits of yoga. Yoga can help improve strength, flexibility and balance, as well as providing an opportunity for mental relaxation and stillness. The hour-long class will be gentle and relaxed, with small groups and an emphasis on practising together rather than competition.

Nigel is starting a new men’s yoga class

Nigel and Berit also hope the sessions will create a sense of camaraderie among those taking part. The class costs £10, payable through an honesty box, and operates on a drop-in basis. Sessions will take place weekly at 9.15am on Mondays at the Portway Annexe. Participants are asked to bring a yoga mat if they have one. For more information, email nigel@yogawithnigel.co.uk.

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n MESSAGE FROM THE MP

wellsvoice

October 2026

Catching up with the Mendip community Thoughts of Wells and Mendip Hills MP Tessa Munt HELLO everyone, I enjoyed a busy summer. Not having to travel to Westminster, I had more time to catch up with local residents and businesspeople, holding 23 community surgeries during August and listening to your many different concerns, several of which I raised with ministers on my return to Parliament. I met local residents at the junction of the A39 with Ash Lane and College Road, noted for its fast-moving traffic which makes crossing the main road so difficult, particularly for parents with young children and our more senior citizens. It’ll be no surprise that I’ve met with Highways officers to raise the problems faced here by pedestrians, speeding, and other residents’ complaints about the condition of our roads and pavements, works, contractors’ inaccurate signage, and road closures – see page 7 for more information. I was delighted to attend the opening of the new Cornish Bakery in Wells. It looks fantastic and I wish them every success! I had a fab visit to The Bishop’s Palace ‘fun and games’ event. The photo exhibition reminded me of occasions I’d almost forgotten, like the It’s a Knockout team television programme filmed in Wells in the 1970s. It was wonderful to

Hiroshima Day in Wells

see so many people enjoying the sunshine, and to spend time at this very special place. Each year on 6th August, Wells marks Hiroshima Day with a minute’s silence, reading a message of peace from the Mayor of Hiroshima, and as the sun sets, lanterns made and decorated in Hiroshima are floated on the moat in Wells. This is a solemn and poignant occasion, a reminder that we must work to ensure such atrocities never be repeated. Wells celebrated another fantastic Moat Boat Race – the first time I’ve stayed dry for many years – and it’s always a highlight in my calendar. It’s great fun and raises funds for local causes. Congratulations to all the winners, and well done to everyone who put time and effort in to make a raft for the day, and the many supporters at the event. Thank you to Mike Phelps for inviting me to ‘open’ the Party at Palace Farm in aid of the amazing Dorset & Somerset Air Ambulance. We had a lovely evening and were really happy to support this brilliant cause. Huge congratulations must go to Mike and the team for raising so much for such a brilliant cause. It was lovely to welcome another 12 young adults to Westminster for my second Parliamentary Insight Day. They toured Parliament, watched a debate and took part in a workshop. Please let me know if you’d like to come to a future Insight Day. The next one is in November. I returned to a Parliament with a new Prime Minister who seems keen to ‘reset’ politics and work in a different way. My health colleagues have accepted his invitation to work cross-party to find solutions to the longstanding challenge of providing care for our elderly and vulnerable citizens, and I’m hopeful those talks continue and are productive. It seems ministers too have started the new term with a more collaborative approach, which is welcome. I’ll keep you updated over the coming months as the programme of legislation is outlined in detail. If you’re running a business locally, I am keen to hear what works, what doesn’t work and what should change. I’m delighted

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It’s also apple harvesting time, too

that Daisy Cooper MP, Lib Dem Treasury spokesperson will be visiting Draycott Memorial Hall on 24th October to talk about the rules and regulations affecting businesses, give an overview of where the Government is, and seems to be going, and to answer your questions. It’s free to attend

and ticket numbers are limited, so please join us and let us know how you could be supported better. To sign up, please email me at tessa. munt.mp@parliament.uk and I’ll send you the link. My next most local surgeries are listed below, but please call me or visit my website for the full list: n Thursday, 1st October from 11am to 12pm at North Wootton Community Café, North Wootton. n Friday, 2nd October from 8am to 9am at The Mendip Pantry, Chewton Mendip. n Friday, 2nd October from 8pm to 9pm at The Pub Night, Village Hall, Dinder. n Saturday, 3rd October from 8.30am to 10am at Coffee #1, Wells. n Saturday, 10th October from 11am to 12pm at The Hive Craft Café, Shepton Mallet. No appointment is necessary – it’s first come, first served. If you can’t come to meet me, I’ll come to see you.

Yo u c a n c o n t a c t m e o n 01934 440639

(answerphone outside office hours)

tessa.munt.mp@parliament.uk Tessa Munt Freepost (you won’t need a stamp!)

www.fb.com/TessaMunt4Wells tessamunt.bsky.social www.instagram.com/tessa.munt You can contact Theo Butt Philip, your Somerset Councillor 07811 871274 | theo.buttphilip@somerset.gov.uk

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wellsvoice

October 2026

n NEWS

Stories from the Museum In one of the upper galleries of the Wells and Mendip Museum is a reminder of an extraordinary story. It is an intriguing exception to the rule that the City of Wells, lacking access to a navigable waterway, never developed into a major centre of trade and industry. In the 1930s, Scophany was a trendy new electronics company in Kensington that made the newest thing imaginable – giant televisions. The war came. Televisions were out, radar was in – top-secret radar for aircraft. The work was a vital part of the war effort, as important as code-breaking. And then in 1940 a bomb landed on a nearby tennis court. London was clearly too dangerous. But where to go? The search for a new home began urgently. There were three criteria: 1. It must have an available workforce, preferably of young women. 2. It must have empty buildings. 3. It must be somewhere that was unlikely to be bombed. Of all the places in England they chose Wells! Premises were quickly requisitioned – the Town Hall buildings, Clares vacant printing works, Crump Way’s cheese store,

Joe Thomas’ scrap yard in South Street, the Crown skittle alley, and a large private house in Milton Lane. What a mixture! It was a success and Scophany helped to win the war. But then what? The owners wanted their buildings back. By chance, there was an empty prisoner-of-war camp at Penleigh. (That’s another story!) So, after much haggling, Scophany moved in. The company flourished. They made radar components, aircraft tracking equipment and recording equipment to add sound to home movies, and that’s what we have in the museum. By the 1960s over 1,000 people worked at Penleigh. They came from all over the region, mostly by bus, some even from as far away as Bristol. But the company was always short of money. Mergers were arranged with Baird, and EMI – more famous for Beatles records – and Thales, but it was not enough. So eventually, in 2011, the site closed. It is now housing, and Wells is back to its historic state as a delightful backwater. Nick Axten Nick’s book, Why Wells?, is available to buy now at the Wells & Mendip Museum shop.

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Rehearsals for the production of Waiting for Godot are well underway

Little Theatre regular to direct classic play ADAM Lanfranchi, a well-known name in the Wells theatre world, is bring the classic Samuel Beckett play, Waiting for Godot to the Strode Theatre at the end of October. Adam, who went to the Blue School and joined the Little Theatre in 2004 at the age of 14, has acted and directed a number of plays over the years and is lending his talents to help out the Strode. There were several reasons for choosing Waiting for Godot,” said Adam. “Firstly, because we needed a play with a small cast, but also because it is one of my favourite plays and I’ve always wanted to direct it. “After directing Frankenstein at the Strode last year – which was technically very complicated with a lot of moving parts, I wanted to do something very stripped back and character focused, which Waiting for Godot is. A lot of the production team are also veterans of the Little Theatre and we are borrowing costumes and props from Wells for Godot, and in return we will give a donation for their services.” The aim of this play is to raise funds to enable the theatre to set up its own in-house production company at Strode. Waiting for Godot follows two men, Vladimir and Estragon, as they wait beside a tree for the mysterious Godot, who never arrives. As they pass the time

talking, arguing and contemplating their situation, they encounter the eccentric Pozzo and his servant Lucky. A boy eventually appears with a message that Godot will not be coming that day, but promises he will come tomorrow. The following day brings much the same pattern, as Vladimir and Estragon continue to wait in Samuel Beckett’s tragicomic exploration of friendship, hope and the absurdity of human existence. While there’s no denying that Waiting for Godot is a strange play, it’s also extremely funny and full of every actor’s dream roles. Waiting for Godot is running at the Strode Theatre in Street from the 28th-31st of October, and you can book tickets through the box office on 01458 442846 or online at www.strodetheatre.org.uk.

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wellsvoice

October 2026

n FAMILY GUIDE

Home of Halloween – Wookey Hole Caves

Kids’ Halloween Party – The Swan Hotel

Get Spooky! Your complete guide to Halloween fun in Wells Welcome to the Wells Voice Family Guide – your monthly go-to guide for family-friendly days out, activities and adventures in Wells and the surrounding area. Curated by Lorna Gray, a Wells parent with tiny and not-so-tiny children, this guide is packed with recommendations, tried and tested reviews and seasonal inspiration to help you make the most of family life in this wonderful city.

DRESSING UP AND SPOOKY FUN

Halloween might not be quite as big here in the UK as it is across the pond, but there’s no denying it’s becoming a firm favourite with children – and it’s easy to see why. There’s dressing up, spooky fun and, of course, an almost unlimited supply of sweets! Whether your kids are after a proper Halloween party, a spooky day out or simply somewhere to go trick or treating, there’s plenty happening in and around Wells this October.

n Kids’ Halloween Party The Swan Hotel, Wells Friday 30th October, 12pm-4pm – £7.50 per child – Call 01749 836300 or drop-in to book After proving really popular over the last two years, The Swan Hotel is putting on another of its frightfilled Halloween parties for the kids this year. Aimed at children aged up to

the age of 13, there’s plenty of spooky fun to be had, from a UV disco and dancing to Halloween games – no doubt including the old classic challenge of turning yourselves into mummies using loo roll! And after all that running around, there’s a snack buffet filled with plenty of suitably spinechilling treats to replenish those energy levels. Grown-ups go free (up to two adults per paying child), and if you fancy something a little stronger than a soft drink (you may need it!) there’s also a spooky selection of Halloween cocktails available while the kids let loose on the dance floor. Why go: A proper Halloween party with plenty of dressing up, dancing and silliness – just what Halloween is all about.

n Home of Halloween at Wookey Hole Caves Weekends from 3rd Oct, then daily from 24th October to 1st November – Tickets from £16.99, under 3s free – Book online or at venue Wookey Hole Caves is transforming into a spellbinding world of pumpkins, monsters, magic and family fun this Halloween. In addition to all the usual attractions, the circus will host the Monster’s Ball Extravaganza, where vampires, monsters and mischievous creatures take over

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the Wookey Hole Circus in a scarily entertaining family show. There’s Halloween-themed Monster Golf, a spooky 4D film and a pumpkin trail. What’s more, every guest that arrives in fancy dress and snaps a photo with the Witch of Wookey Hole will be entered into a daily prize draw for the chance to win a year’s Wookey Hole Membership. Why go: Wookey Hole Caves really comes to life at Halloween – I mean, what says Halloween better than meeting the famous Witch of Wookey Hole? The kids will have a blast. And don’t miss the circus show – definitely one of the highlights alongside the caves themselves. Money-saving tip: If you have a Tesco Clubcard, points can be redeemed against Wookey Hole tickets, which makes this trip out great value for money.

MORE EVENTS

Keep an eye out for more Halloween events happening in Wells this month. Fosso Lounge and Loaf have both hosted kids’ Halloween events in the past, and we’re hoping they’ll be doing the same again this year. Their plans weren’t confirmed in time for us to include them here, so keep an eye on their socials for updates closer to the time.

TRICK OR TREAT? If you’re planning to give trick or treating a go this year, West Horrington village is our triedand-tested favourite. Almost

every house gets involved, with spectacular spooky decorations and Halloween treats galore. One even opened its doors and invited us in for hot chocolates and homemade Oreo brownies – which were devilishly delicious by the way! Allow at least an hour to make your way around, and be aware that parking can be tight unless you know someone who lives there. If you’re happy to get in the car, Croscombe’s annual Creepy Crawl is another good option. Closer to home, in Wells itself, we’ve had recommendations for a few of the newer housing estates: the Keward estate (particularly good for little ones, as the decorations are a little gentler), Cathedral Walk (next to Morrisons) and Knight Road/ Wand Road (off Glastonbury Road). The general rule is simple: if a house has Halloween decorations or a pumpkin outside, they’re happy to welcome trick or treaters. Some will leave a tub of treats outside too. For the older (and braver) kids, the Penleigh Road Haunt is apparently well worth a visit. One family has gone all-out to transform their house and garden into a ‘trick or treater’s paradise’, complete with a scare maze. We might need to wait another couple of years for this one… enter if you dare! Mwah hah hah!

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wellsvoice

October 2026

n NEWS

of the WAC returns to the cathedral Hearts community Wells Art Contemporary returns to Wells Cathedral in October, with artists from 49 countries joining a strong local representation in this year’s exhibition. Almost 400 artists responded to the theme of ‘Time’, chosen by the Dean of Wells, Toby Wright, drawing on the words of St Augustine’s Confessions: ‘For what then is time? If no one asks me, I know; if I wish to explain

it to one that asks, I know not’. Selectors Laura Moffat, Director of Art+Christianity, and internationally renowned local textile artist Alice Kettle have chosen 30 installation works for the Cathedral, including pieces by Somerset artists Louise Penrice and Charlotte Austen. A further 70 works will be displayed in the Cloisters’ white wall gallery, selected from almost 2,000 entries.

Wells artists Heather Jane Wallace and Liam O’Farrell are among those exhibiting, alongside Cheddar artist Katie Jones, a finalist in Sky Portrait Artist of the Year. WAC chair Paddy O’Hagan said the exhibition was “firmly established as an important international art exhibition”. Wells Art Contemporary runs from the 10th of October to the 7th of November.

Katie Jones

At the Bus Stop – Liam O’Farrell

Louise Penrice

Wells Art Contemporary is showcasing work by four local community organisations alongside the artists. Hearts of the Community features portraits by Katie Jones, a finalist in Sky Portrait Artist of the Year 2025, celebrating volunteers from organisations supported by Wells SOUP. Wells Tuesday WI has created Confluence, a textile sculpture made collaboratively by more than 70 members, celebrating friendship, opportunity and community. The Somerset Speak Their Name Quilt Project honours loved ones lost to suicide, while Shepton Mallet’s Make the Sunshine has worked with schoolchildren on Protecting our Rights: The Rights of a Child, exploring identity, wellbeing, safety and freedom of expression.

10 OCT - 7 NOV Wells Cathedral

Over 30 Site-specific Installations 70 Gallery Works

www.wellsartcontemporary.co.uk

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A Bacchanal before the storm (after Nicholas Poussin): Heather Jane Wallace

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n ADVERTISING FEATURE

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wellsvoice

October 2026

n FEATURE

Men’s group takes a step in the right direction Now celebrating its third anniversary, Men Walking and Talking, which is part of a country-wide network of walking support groups, meets every Tuesday throughout the year. We sent editor Dean along to find out more. For someone joining Wells Men Walking and Talking for the first time, perhaps the hardest part of the evening is not the walking, it’s simply joining in. One newcomer admitted that he had nearly changed his mind twice on the way there. Finding himself facing a group of around 20 men, all of whom were complete strangers, did little to settle his nerves. “The first one’s the hardest,” he was told. But by the end of the evening, however, things already felt different. He had found people to talk to and, reflecting on the experience afterwards, said: “I connected with two people who were so friendly and welcoming.” That small breakthrough sums up much of what Wells Men Walking and Talking is about. There are no counsellors, no formal therapy sessions and no pressure to share personal problems. Instead, men meet for a walk, fall naturally into smaller groups and talk – sometimes about mental health, but just as often about the weather, work, families or whatever else comes up. “The walk is compulsory; the talk is absolutely optional,” said Neil Winterson, the group’s walk leader. Some newcomers spend their first few walks simply listening. Neil recalled one man who drove to the meeting point for four consecutive weeks but found joining the group too daunting and went home without getting out of his car. When he eventually took that step, he wondered why he had waited so long. It is an experience Neil understands. He joined within the first few weeks of the Wells group being formed, almost exactly three years ago, at a time when he was struggling with anxiety and other issues.

27 men took part in this walk through Tor Hill Woods in September. You’re unlikely to find a friendlier bunch The group started with just a handful of walkers but gradually grew. Its WhatsApp group now has around 85 members who have walked with the group at some point, while turnouts have reached almost 30. Neil believes one reason it works is that talking while walking can feel very different from sitting around a table discussing how you feel. “It’s so much easier to talk when you’re walking,” he said.

your mates or your family about,” Neil said. “It’s easy to talk to strangers because they’ve got no link to your wider life.” For one regular walker, the group arrived at an especially difficult period in his life. He had been struggling with anxiety and depression and had sought professional help, but faced a long wait for psychological therapy. He spoke candidly about reaching a point where he experienced suicidal thoughts.

“The group started with just a handful of walkers but gradually grew. Its WhatsApp group now has around 85 members” “You’re looking where you’re going. You haven’t got all the eyes on you.” The walkers naturally break into smaller groups, come together again and then drift into different conversations as the route continues. There is another advantage, too. Particularly for newcomers, being among people who begin as strangers can make opening up surprisingly easy. “There’s certain things that you wouldn’t necessarily talk to

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The weekly walks became something he could rely on. He has now been attending for more than two years and said simply: “It’s helped me so much.” Another member started coming along shortly before Christmas last year. Like many newcomers, he was apprehensive. “When I first came, I thought, okay, I’m not going to know anyone,” he said. “In fact, to be honest, I felt a bit strange.” He soon discovered that he already recognised several people and has

since made many more friends through the group. And that social side has grown beyond the walks. Friendships have formed, members meet independently and the WhatsApp group has developed into its own support network. Neil describes it as something of a ‘hive mind’ – with dozens of men in the group, there is a good chance somebody else has experienced the same problem, knows the answer to a question or simply understands. “We’re a peer support group. A bunch of blokes who felt the need to get a bit off our chest,” he said. That does not mean every walk is an hour of earnest conversation about mental health. Far from it. Most of the chat is ordinary everyday banter. But when somebody does need to talk, there is someone walking alongside who will listen. And sometimes, it seems, putting one foot in front of the other is enough to get the conversation started. n Men Walking and Talking meet outside St Cuthbert’s Church every Tuesday at 7pm.

Email: sales@wellsvoice.co.uk

wellsvoice

October 2026

WHAT’S ON

Your complete guide to what’s happening in and around Wells this month.

Picture: John Law

The Wells Food Festival will have over 200 stalls to browse on the day

Plan your day at the Wells Food Festival WELLS Food Festival offers a full day of flavour, fun and discovery, and a little planning will help you make the most of your time there. The festival starts at 10.30am. Arrive early to secure parking in the city car parks and to avoid your favourite stallholders selling out. Bring some cash, an empty bag and a good appetite. On arrival, pick up a festival brochure to guide your route through the day and to make sure you don’t miss anything. There are a few cookery timings to take note of: families should make a beeline to Little Joe’s Kitchen in the Recreation Ground to book a free cookery workshop for children over the age of three. There are sessions at 10.30am, 11.30am, 1.15pm and 2.15pm which fill up quickly. Food fans won’t want to miss Big Nath’s Fire Stage in the Recreation Ground, where Bristol BBQ expert Nathan Ritchie hosts live demos at 11am, 1pm and 3pm.

For a deeper look at food‑industry issues, visit the Food for Thought marquee for Table Talks, including Tessa Munt on the Good Food Bill at 11am and Charlie Bigham’s Q&A at 11.30am and 2.20pm. There are all sorts of activities in the Children’s Zone in the Recreation Ground, including a ‘Pumpkins Not Just for Halloween’ craft session. Young visitors can also pick up a Children’s Trail map for a food‑detective adventure that leads them around the festival solving clues. Over on Palace Green there’s an chance to design your own Charlie Bigham’s pack sleeve on the stand, for all ages. Before you leave the festival, make sure you take a wander through the Town Hall where a treasure trove of kitchenware and artisan craftsmanship awaits, along with some early Christmas shopping inspiration. For further information, visit www.wellsfoodfestival.co.uk.

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n WHAT’S ON

October 2026

A helping hand for stargazers

The Newark High School Orchestra is celebrating its 60th anniversary in 2027. It is playing in Wells in November

Church to host Ohio orchestra THE NEWARK High School Orchestra from Ohio will perform at St Cuthbert’s Church at 1pm on Wednesday, 4th November, with free entry to its Around the World concert. The programme includes Handel’s Royal Fireworks, arranged by F.J. Allen, and Romanian composer George Enescu’s Rumanian Rhapsody

No. 1, alongside traditional folk tunes from America, England and Bosnia. The touring orchestra is made up of students aged 14-18 and is part of the Newark City Schools Orchestra programme, a musical tradition in the Ohio city and school district dating back to 1967. Over the past six decades,

the programme has given generations of students the opportunity to learn, perform and develop their musical skills. The English tour marks the beginning of celebrations for the orchestra’s 60th anniversary in 2027. The concert at St Cuthbert’s Church starts at 1pm on 4th November and entry is free.

Award-winning choir coming to Wells THE GOOD Afternoon Choir Wells is set to welcome an awardwinning male choir to the city for a special concert. The choir will be joined by the City of Bath Male Choir at St Thomas’ Church on Friday, 16th October at 7.30pm. The City of Bath Male Choir recently competed at the Cornwall International Male Choral Festival, where it won both Overall Best Choir and Best UK Male Choir in the Category II competition at Truro Cathedral. The Good Afternoon Choir Wells is part of a network of 24 friendly, mixed-voice, nonaudition community choirs, with around 1,000 singers across the South West and Wales. The Wells choir rehearses at St Thomas’ Church on Tuesday afternoons from 2pm-4pm with its leader, Ruth Jenkins.

The City of Bath Male Choir will be playing in Wells on 16th October Good Afternoon Choir founder Grenville Jones said: “This will be a very special concert for our members with a mix of music to suit everyone. It will be a great evening for the Good Afternoon Choir Wells, who very much look forward to welcoming the City of Bath Male Choir to entertain you with their award-winning sound.”

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Tickets cost £10 on the door or in advance, with under-16s admitted free. There will also be a retiring collection for Dorset & Somerset Air Ambulance. For further information, visit the Good Afternoon Choir website at www.goodafternoonchoir. org/wells-gac.html or call 0844 888 9991.

ASTRONOMY enthusiasts will have the chance to explore the latest telescopes – and get help with their own – at a special clinic in Wells next month. The Telescope Clinic will be held at St Thomas’ Church Hall from 1pm-5pm on Saturday, 3rd October, with members of the local astronomy community on hand to offer advice and guidance. A range of telescopes belonging to members will be on display, giving visitors the opportunity to see different types of equipment in operation. Visitors are also encouraged to bring along their own telescopes to the clinic, where experienced members will be available to help with setting up and operating the equipment.

Trio Paradis’ Café concerts TRIO Paradis play a café concert at St Thomas’ Church on the first Monday of the month at 11am. There is a pop-up café serving homemade cakes from 10am, followed by a 45-minute concert which is pay-what-you-feel to ensure everyone can access live music, regardless of income. On Monday, 5th October the theme is From Dawn to Dusk – a variety of music inspired by times of day, including Circulo by Spanish composer Joaquín Turina, Matin and Soir by French composer Mel Bonis, and a rarely performed song, Soleils Couchants, by Adela Maddison who was connected with the earliest Glastonbury Festivals. On 2nd November the theme is What’s in a Name?, and on 7th December it’s Winter Landscapes, featuring Sleigh Ride by Delius and Tchaikovsky. The atmosphere at Trio Paradis events is friendly and informal. Entrance is by donation via a retiring collection, and there’s no need to book, although an RSVP via the Trio’s website is appreciated. Head to www.trioparadis.com for information and future dates.

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October 2026

n WHAT’S ON

Final delights for literature festival BEFORE David Bowie fans head to Wells Cathedral in November for the tribute show Bowie By Candlelight, there’s a chance at the Wells Festival of Literature this month to discover what shaped the late musician’s music. Peter Ormerod, a journalist and Bowie superfan, delves into Bowie’s quest for spirituality in his new book, David Bowie and the Search for Life, Death and God. From his first musical encounters as a choirboy, Ormerod traces Bowie’s spiritual obsessions through the years, showing how this quest for meaning propelled him through his darkest moments and biggest successes in his career. As a young musician, Tibetan Buddhism enraptured Bowie, marking the first step in a spiritual journey that would inspire some of his most profound lyrics and music.

Henry Normal

Peter Ormerod Ormerod sheds new light on the spiritual traditions behind Bowie’s genius, from the Kabbalah-influenced tracks of Station to Station to Ziggy Stardust’s messiah complex, and the life-affirming, death-defying

WELLS Festival of

Literature

love of one of his all-time classic songs, Heroes. Another exciting speaker at the festival is poet and comedian Henry Normal, a regular on Radio 4, where he has written and performed several radio shows using poetry, storytelling and comedy to explore some of life’s big questions. Co-writer of the awardwinning Mrs Merton Show and the BAFTA-winning Paul and Pauline Calf Diaries, which he wrote with Steve Coogan, Normal also set up Baby Cow Productions in 1990. Highlights from Baby Cow included Gavin and Stacey,

Red Dwarf, The Mighty Boosh and the Oscar-nominated film Philomena. His new show, A Normal Journey, will be recorded this autumn, and his latest book, Collected Poems, is out now. Peter Ormerod is at the festival on Monday, 19th October at 7.45pm, while Henry Normal appears on Wednesday, 21st October at 7.45pm. Wells Festival of Literature runs from the 16th to the 24th of October. To book tickets and for more information on all the speakers, head to www.wellsfestivalof literature.org.uk.

Pop hits get a classical twist 16-24 October 2026 www.wellsfestivalofliterature.org.uk

CANDELABRA Concerts is bringing something a little different to St Thomas’ Church on 3rd October with its Inspired by Bridgerton Concert. Modern chart music is transformed into elegant live string performances in a world

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Wells Voice.indd 1

inspired by the hit TV show. Artists including Taylor Swift, Ariana Grande, Coldplay and Harry Styles will have their most famous songs played as you’ve never heard them before. For more information, head to candelabraconcerts.com.

Email: news@wellsvoice.co.uk 13/07/2026 10:09

wellsvoice

n WHAT’S ON n Exhibition: Wells Art Contemporary

10th October – 7th November Wells Cathedral See page 29 for more details

n Exhibition: Tom Winter

1st October – 21st November The Bishop’s Palace Tom Winter, a finalist on Season 11 of Landscape Artist of the Year in 2026, has been a freelance painter now for nearly 30 years.

n Halloween Fun

1st October – 1st November Wookey Hole See pages 17/28 for more details

n Exhibition: The First Stranger

10th-31st October Andelli Art The First Stranger is a solo exhibition showcasing the work of Joseph Dilnot.

n Under Milk Wood

9th-10th October Westbury Village Hall Tickets are £10 and available from the Westbury shop.

n Wells Festival of Literature 16th-24th October Cedars Hall See page 35 for more details

Thursday 1st n Jazz Night: Dave Morecroft Trio

The White Hart – 8pm-10pm This piano-led group fuses many styles, influenced by Weather Report and Wayne Shorter.

n Wells Quilters

St Thomas’ Church Hall – 2pm-4pm For further information, please contact Helen on 01749 673101.

Friday 2nd n Groove is at the Hart

The White Hart – 8pm DJ Ian Lythaby spinning the tunes.

n Live Music: Michael Mochan City Arms – 8pm

n Social Dance

Henton Village Hall – 7pm-9pm £6 per head, with refreshments. Beginners welcome.

n The Wells Natural History & Archaeology Society

Wells & Mendip Museum – 7pm ‘The First English Art: Anglo Saxon Stonework 650 to 1066’, a talk by

Chris Eldridge, Head of History at Wells Cathedral School.

Saturday 3rd n Craft and Gift Fair Seager Hall For all enquiries, call 07513 998142 or email midsomercraftfairs@ gmail.com.

n Wells Men’s Breakfast

Wells & Mendip Museum – 8am Paul Hodge from Bristol water charts the history of water resources at Bristol Water. For more information, go to wellsmensbreakfast.org.

n Leaving Party

The White Hart – 8pm Caitlin is setting off for New Zealand, so The White Hart is using it as an excuse to have a bash. Live music, great atmosphere and probably some tears. All are invited to say good bye.

n Live Music: The Spanners Rose & Crown – 8pm

n George Cycling Group The George Inn, Croscombe – 9.30am A 30-mile social cycle ride beginning at the George.

n Crafty Church

St Thomas Church – 10am-12pm Crafty Church is for families with older toddlers.

n Wells Telescope Clinic

St Thomas Church Hall – 1pm-5pm See page 34 for more details

n Coffee Morning

Croscombe Village Hall – 10am-12pm

Sunday 4th

October 2026

n Wells Fountain Poets – Kate Noakes

n Jazz Night: SCQ Trio

The King’s Head – 7pm A lively group of poets has been meeting monthly since 2002. Just turn up and you will be made welcome.

Tuesday 6th Fosso Lounge – 6pm £2 per player, teams of six. Cash prize!

Friday 9th

n Open Mic Night The White Hart – 8pm

n Ancestry Group

Wells Library – 2pm/3pm Email wlslib@somerset.gov.uk to book your place.

n Divine Light: The Stained Glass of England’s Cathedrals Wells Cathedral – 10.30am-2pm An illustrated talk by Janet Gough based on her book, Divine Light: The Stained Glass of English Cathedrals.

Wednesday 7th n Sparks Recital Series

Cedars Hall – 7pm Two of Wells Cathedral School’s outstanding senior specialist musicians curate and present a fulllength recital in two halves.

n Goldies Sing & Smile

Methodist Church Hall, Southover – 2.15pm-3.30pm Goldies is a fun, daytime social singing group.

Thursday 8th n Lunchtime Organ Recital: Timothy Parsons Wells Cathedral – 1.05pm

Croscombe Village Hall – 7pm The life and work of a pioneering photographer who was born in Croscombe. An illustrated talk by Christine and Joe King.

n Cricket Club Quiz

The George Inn, Croscombe – 8pm

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Wells Cathedral – 9am-6.30pm

n Live Music: John Lime City Arms – 8pm

Saturday 10th n Palomar 200-inch Hale Telescope: The Inside Story

Wells & Mendip Museum – 7.30pm Bud will give a video tour of the former world’s largest telescope, which he captured during a recent visit he made to the Palomar Observatory in California.

n Live Music: Devid Piazza The White Hart – 8pm

n Lego Club

Wells Library – 11am For children aged five and over. Booking essential – email wlslib@ somerset.gov.uk.

n Live Music: Timmy Thunderock n Lunchtime Concert: Horizons of Bath Wells Cathedral – 1.05pm

n Halloween Quiz Night

th Tai Chi Heal

Wells Golf Club – 7pm Swat up on Halloween facts. Teams of 4 to 6 people and booking definitely required.

n Rising Stars Recital Series – Nurry Lee

n Trio Paradis Café Concert n Annie Naish – A Rural Life

n Opening the Word: Tyndale, Translation and Transformation

Rose & Crown – 8pm

Monday 5th St Thomas Church – 11am See page 34 for more details

n Ben GoldscheiderElena Urioste-Tom Poster

Cedars Hall – 7pm Three of the finest musicians of their generation perform solos, duos and trios.

n Charity Quiz Night

n Quiz Night

The White Hart – 7.30pm Teams of up to six and £2 per team member. To book, phone 01749 678642 or email bookings@ whitehartwells.com.

The White Hart – 8pm-10pm Smooth, stylish jazz featuring local guitar legend Jerry Crozier-Cole and Canadian tenor player Terry Quinney.

P i l o g a Fi t

Essential Mindful Exercise Core & More Functional Fitness Classes www.healthtaichi.co.uk www.pilogafit.co.uk John Beasley 01749 672482

Cedars Hall – 7pm The Rising Stars Series sees former pupils, now firmly on the road to stardom, return to Wells Cathedral School to perform where their talents were first nurtured.

Sunday 11th n Wells Food Festival

Wells city centre – From 10.30am See page 33 for more details

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wellsvoice

October 2026

n WHAT’S ON n Wookey Hole Cinema: Midwinter Break

Friday 16th

Monday 12th

City Arms – 8pm

Wookey Hole Club – 7.30pm

n Croscombe Film Night: The Christophers

Croscombe Village Hall – 7.30pm

n Armed Forces Outreach Service

Heads Up, South Horrington – 10am-12pm Are you a veteran, serving member, family member, dependent or reservist? Come and have a brew and banter.

n Tai Chi

Wells Library – 10.30am

n Live Music: The Priddice Brothers n Céline Dion by Candlelight Wells Cathedral – £7.30pm Head to concertsbycandlelight. com for more information and to book tickets.

Saturday 17th n Switch Club

Wells Library – 11am For children aged seven and over. Booking is essential – email wlslib@somerset.gov.uk.

n Live Music: Olly Howard

Tuesday 13th

The White Hart – 8pm

n Wells Classic Motorcycle Club

Seager Hall For all enquiries, call 07513 998142 or email midsomercraftfairs@ gmail.com.

Cheddar Valley Inn – 6.30pm Pop along to find out more about this local bikers’ club.

n Live Music: Folk Session

The George Inn, Croscombe – 7pm Live folk session with Nathan and Caelia.

Wednesday 14th n Wells Board Game Group Wetherspoons – 7pm-9.30pm

n Symphony Orchestra Concert – Legends and Love Songs Cedars Hall – 7pm Wells Cathedral School Symphony Orchestra presents a programme inspired by folk traditions, storytelling and song.

Thursday 15th n Jazz Night: Iain Ballamy and Gareth Williams

The White Hart – 8pm-10pm Back by popular demand. This duo always deliver a great night of jazz.

n Music Together

The Lawrence Centre – 10.45am-11.45am For more information, email: info@ soundsjoyful.co.uk or visit www. soundsjoyful.co.uk.

n Symphony Orchestra Concert – Legends and Love Songs Cedars Hallow – 7pm Wells Cathedral School Symphony Orchestra presents a programme inspired by folk traditions, storytelling and song.

n Craft and Gift Fair

n Live Music: SNR

PILATES AND BARRE TUESDAYS Pilates 9.15am Pilates Seated Seniors 10.30am WEDNESDAYS 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

Town Hall – 7pm-9pm The topic will be an aspect of climate change and local community action. Refreshments available. Email sustwells@gmail. com for more information.

n CPR and Defibrillator Awareness Session

Croscombe Village Hall – 7pm For more information, contact cllr.wilkins@croscombe parishcouncil.gov.uk.

Tuesday 27th n Macular Society Support Group

Thursday 22nd

Seager Hall – 10am

n Art Lecture by Alexandra Drysdale

Heritage Courtyard Gallery – 6pm Alexandra’s lectures combine art historical knowledge with personal expertise in aesthetics and artistic techniques.

n Jazz Night: Jo Crozier-Cole and Anders Olinder

n Board Game Night

The George Inn, Croscombe – 7pm

n Wells Classic Motorcycle Club

Cheddar Valley Inn – 6.30pm Pop along to find out more about this local bikers’ club.

Wednesday 28th

n Neighbourhood Police Beat Surgery

The White Hart – 8pm-10pm Local vocalist Jo is performing popular jazz standards accompanied by a well-known, Bristol-based pianist.

n Coldplay by Candlelight

Friday 23rd

Lawrence Centre – 6.30pm-9pm Join in with upcycling or repairing clothing or other textiles. Email sustwells@gmail.com for more information.

Rose & Crown – 8pm

Town Hall – 10am-2pm

Wells Cathedral – £7.30pm Head to concertsbycandlelight. com for more information and to book tickets.

Sunday 18th n Wells City Brass Band Concert

Croscombe Village Hall – 3pm All profits to Croscombe Village Hall. Tickets £10 from Ian Baker – 07972 073601 or baker323@msn. com.

n Live Music: Steve Linforth Kings Head – 9pm

Monday 19th n Jazz Jam Session

The White Hart – 8pm A great way for local musicians of all ages and abilities to get together and play music.

Wednesday 21st n Wells Memory Cafe

Methodist Church Hall, Southover – 2pm-3.30pm Contact 01749 676248 or wellsmemcaf@gmail.com for more information.

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n Wells Board Game Group Wetherspoons – 7pm-9.30pm

n Make and Mend

n The Wells Ghost Walk

7pm-8.30pm & 9pm-10.30pm Full details and booking can be found at www.extours.co.uk.

n Live Music: Ryan Haynes City Arms – 8pm

Saturday 24th n The Wells Ghost Walk

n Forever Loved

n Live Music: Gia

The White Hart – 8pm

Sunday 25th Quickshifter Coffee – From 11am An opportunity for veterans to pull up a sandbag and chat to other veterans over coffee and a bacon bap. On the last Sunday of the month.

Monday 26th n Tai Chi

Wells Library – 10.30am

n Sustainable Wells Fourth Monday Meeting

Wookey Hole Theatre – 6pm Magique returns to Wookey Hole to present their magic and illusion show, Fire and Water.

Thursday 29th

7pm-8.30pm & 9pm-10.30pm Full details and booking can be found at www.extours.co.uk.

n Veteran’s Breakfast

n Magique Presents: Fire & Water

Heads Up, South Horrington This group offers a safe and supportive place to connect with others who understand life after baby loss. For more information, please contact foreverlovedmendip@aol.com.

n Jazz Night: DA Trio

The White Hart – 8pm-10pm A blend of original tunes and jazz standards led by Duncan Anselm on Alto sax.

Friday 30th n Walk Like a Man

Wells Cathedral – 8.45pm

Continued on page 38

Email: news@wellsvoice.co.uk

wellsvoice

October 2026

n WHAT’S ON n Repair Saturday

From page 37 The Music Of Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons by Candlelight comes to Wells Cathedral.

n Save the Children Christmas Coffee Morning

St Thomas’ Hall – 10.30am-12pm Christmas cards, homemade cakes and preserves, handmade gifts and plants. Raising funds for charity.

n Live Music: Woodchuck City Arms – 8pm

n Wells Solo Travellers Club

Blossom’s – 2.30pm Contact Amanda on 07551 958663 or join their Facebook group.

n Quiz Night

Wells Library – 10am-12.30pm Email repaircafe.wells@gmail. com or wlslib@somerset.gov.uk for more information.

n Wells Community Network Café

n Tech Help

Portway Annexe Every Tuesday – 10.30am-12pm

Wells Library Every Wednesday – 10.30am and 11.30am

n Wells Good Afternoon Choir

n Djembe Tots

n Tai Chi Seniors Class Dinder Village Hall Every Tuesday – 9am-10am

n Wells Skating Club

Saturday 31st

Wells Library Every Tuesday – 9.30am-3.30pm

n Halloween Party

n Men Walking and Talking

Wells Blue Sports Centre Every Tuesday – 6pm-7pm

n Youth Job Hub

St Cuthbert’s Church Every Tuesday – From 7pm

Dinder Village Hall Every Thursday – 8pm-10pm

n Mendip Watercolour Art

n Heritage Walk

Regular events

St Thomas Church Every Tuesday – 2pm-4pm

n Irish Set Dancing

Seager Hall Every Wednesday – 11.15am – 12.45pm

The Crown Every Wednesday – 11am

Wells Golf Club – 7pm Non-members welcome. Teams of six and £3 per person. Reserve your table at least a week before.

The White Hart – 8pm Live music from Indi Perry.

n Music for Wellbeing

Dinder Village Hall Every Thursday – 1.30pm – 3.30pm

n Wells Scottish Dancers

Blue School Sports Centre Every Thursday – 6.30pm-8.30pm

n Snack and Chat

St Thomas Church Community Room Every Thursday 2pm – 3.45pm

Dinder Village Hall Every Wednesday – 10am – toddlers/pre-schoolers 11am – babies

n Coxley Community Café

Christ Church, Coxley Every Thursday – 2.30pm – 4pm

n Wells Table Tennis Club

Seager Hall Every Wednesday – 6pm – 8pm

n Stories & Rhymes

Wells Library Every Friday – 10.30am – 11.15am

n Knit & Craft Group

Wells Library Every Wednesday – 10am – 12pm

n Knit & Craft

Wells Library Every Thursday (not third Thursday) 2pm – 4pm

n NHS Health Checks

Wells Library Every Friday – 10am – 4pm

n Quiz at the Crown The Crown Every Sunday – 7.30pm

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wellsvoice

October 2026

n AROUND THE SOCIETIES WELLS MEN’S BREAKFAST

Wells Civic Society

WELLS CIVIC SOCIETY The first of the new season of members’ evening meetings will welcome Tim Parsons, appointed Director of Music at Wells Cathedral in September 2024, who is also Music Director of the Wells Cathedral Oratorio Society. Tim will talk about the multi-millionpound project to repair and restore the cathedral organ, which began earlier this year with 4,000 pipes – along with wind reservoirs, electrical systems and console – being removed and transported to the Durham workshop of organ builders, Harrison & Harrison. This will be at 7pm at the Wells Museum on Wednesday, 7th October. All are welcome – members free, £5 donation for guests, with light refreshments available as usual. The following meeting on 11th November will start at 6.30pm with the Annual General Meeting, followed at 7.15 by presentations and discussions of the planning and environment projects currently underway. Several members of the committee will be standing down at the AGM, including the current chair, and vital roles need to be filled if the society is to continue into its 75th year. Help is required with general administration as well as with the website and social media, and organising events. The Society’s main aims focus on the architectural and natural environments of the historic city, working on planning issues and conservation (often in partnership with others), sharing information and stimulating interests. If you love Wells and would like to help to keep the Civic Society going,

please get in touch with me at chris.f.winter@btinternet.com, or other current members of the committee. Chris Winter – Chair, Wells Civic Society

COXLEY & DISTRICT WI On the 21st of August, Coxley ladies walked around a muchdepleted Cheddar Reservoir. It was a lovely warm sunny morning and the trip was most enjoyable. We completed our morning by having coffee at the Cheddar Garden Centre. Then, at our monthly meeting (with a nod to the national WI day on the 19th of September), Karen had kindly crocheted WI badges for us all to wear. We also raked through our wardrobes to find outfits in WI colours. On another note, our speaker this month was Michael Malaghan with ‘Can you hear me at the back?’ Michael is a writer who has written for TV and also children’s books. He gave us an amusing talk filled with many antidotes of his experiences going into schools to talk with pupils and visiting other groups. Pat S. gave him our vote of thanks . The monthly competition was ‘A Theatre Programme’. This was won by Pat S., with Barbara being second and Margaret third. Flower of the month was won by Rosemary, Ursula coming second and Barbara third. We next meet at Coxley Memorial Hall on 6th October at 7pm, where Claire Bounds will be talking to us about scams. The competition is ‘A Flower Arrangement in an Egg Cup’. Visitors will be made most welcome. Ursula Dann

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Members of Wells Men’s Breakfast welcomed speaker Martyn Starnes to the first meeting of the new season on 5th September, which also introduced a few changes to the breakfast format. Catering is now provided by The Pressoir, the independent wine bar, wine shop and kitchen in Wells run by David Schroetter. Members enjoyed hot breakfast rolls, pastries from The Newt, fruit and freshly brewed coffee. David personally cooked 50 fried eggs on site shortly before service. Martyn then gave an engaging and often amusing account of his move from high-tech businesses into professional football. A Chartered Certified Accountant, he has held senior leadership positions throughout his career, including chief executive roles at Bristol Rovers, Plymouth Argyle, Yeovil Town and Swindon Town. He is now chief executive of Frome Town AFC and chairman of Yeovil Town Community Sports Trust, as well as serving as a consultant, trustee and treasurer for Mendip Community Transport. Drawing on a lifelong involvement in football, Martyn reflected on the opportunities that shaped his career, explaining how being in the right place at the right time played a part on several occasions. His stories provided an entertaining insight into life behind the scenes in professional football.

HENTON & DISTRICT GARDENING CLUB This month we had a talk from Neil Ross called X Factor – 10 Tips to Take an Average Garden and Make it Memorable!

Neil is a local garden designer, garden coach and teacher of RHS courses at Bristol Botanic Gardens. His talk was a fun presentation about some well-known and some refreshingly original design principles. He shared with us concepts such as the Japanese principle of Wabi Sabi in the garden – creating quiet breathing spaces, injecting drama and thinking about creating a theme. Neil was trained at the worldfamous gardens of Sissinghurst and Great Dixter before travelling to spend 12 years in New Zealand, where he developed Beverley McConnell’s iconic garden near Auckland – featured in Monty Don’s Around the World in 80 Gardens. In the UK he has designed parks and gardens, and worked on several exciting restoration projects. “Plants should look like they’re old friends throwing a party rather than strangers waiting in line at a bus stop,” said Neil. We meet at Henton Village Hall, with refreshments at 7pm for a talk at 7.30pm. Visitors always welcome – the fee is £5. Further information on the group can be found at www. hentongardenclub.weebly.com.

WELLS MONDAY WI After the long, hot summer and with more moderate temperatures returning, our Walking Group donned their walking shoes and headed along the Strawberry Line, including the new section. There was plenty of time along the way to catch up with each other and enjoy the walk. Our art appreciators visited both the Bakehouse Artists exhibition at Wells Museum and two venues in Portway to view the work of local artists from Wessex

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Henton & District Gardening Club

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n AROUND THE SOCIETIES From page 39 Artists, including Liz Clay, who is internationally renowned for her handmade felt creations. Many of us also enjoyed the Beyond Horizons sculpture exhibition, held within the beautiful gardens of Stoberry Park. Our book choice for August was Shy Creatures by Claire Chambers. A beautifully told story unfolds through secrets and unforeseen consequences, with moments that are somehow both restrained and deeply moving. The novel was inspired by newspaper reports from 1952 about Harry Tucker, a Bristol man who was discovered living naked and reclusively in a house with his elderly aunt. He remained hidden from neighbours and authorities for decades before he was sent to a mental hospital and later tragically drowned in the River Frome. 16th September marked the WI’s 111th birthday, celebrating 111 years of connection, empowerment, community action and creating positive change. If you would like further information regarding our group, please email wellsmondaywi@ gmail.com.

RICHARD III SOCIETY The Society meets at the Wells & Mendip 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 at the interval. On Saturday, 17th October, Max Keen will present talks on Edward I and Francis Drake. Visitors and guests are most welcome. For more information please contact Patsy Barrow on patsybarrow1948@gmail.com or 01749 679296.

ST. THOMAS WOMEN’S FELLOWSHIP Unfortunately our speaker for September let us down at the last minute so we had an evening of discussion on the future of the group, and a quiz provided by our secretary Alison. The early part of the meeting before our coffee/tea break was taken up with members feelings on our change of venue. We were shocked to be told on 5th August that our long-standing booking of the church hall was to end as another group was being given the Wednesday slot, beginning in September. So we reluctantly agreed to hold our meetings in the church as the last thing we want to happen is for the group to fold. We have a solid core of members who would very much miss our monthly meetings. Therefore, sadly, our next meeting on 7th October at 7pm will be in St Thomas’ Church, when we have an in-house discussion on our oldest/favourite book. We look forward to seeing all our ladies in our new venue. Pat Dyer, leader

Wells u3a

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October 2026

WELLS U3A Wells u3a had a glorious autumn afternoon for their trip to Fenny Castle Vineyard at Worth, just outside Wells, in September. Owner James Cumming gave the group a tour around his sunny south-facing slopes on the edge of the Somerset Levels, followed by a tasting of some of his awardwinning wines. The site has sweeping views over the surrounding countryside, with Glastonbury Tor on the horizon. James and his wife Gill moved to Somerset from London in 2005, raised their young family, and kept a flock of Suffolk sheep. Their dream of creating a vineyard on the site became reality after James took a viticulture course at Plumpton College in East Sussex, and learnt what he would need to do to turn their brambly slopes into a viable business. He planted his first Bacchus vines in 2011, and the following year Ortega and Pinot Noir went into the ground. Since then the enterprise has gone from strength to strength, and Fenny Castle wines have picked up numerous awards, and a loyal band of local devotees. Many of them turn up at harvest time and help pick the grapes. James’ background in print and media has resulted in very stylish labelling and presentation of the wines, and he or Gill can be found most Saturdays at their stand in Wells Market, selling their wines and telling customers about the business. Another enthusiast that Wells u3a encountered last month was Chris Kelly, who has been captivated by the Roman Empire since he was a boy. He was the speaker at the u3a’s monthly talk at Wells Museum, and described the growth of the Roman Empire, with stories of its generals and battles. Now retired and living in Wedmore, Chris’ working life as a general manager in the motor trade took him all over Europe, and gave him opportunities to visit sites of Roman occupation, and record some of the engineering marvels left behind. The u3a provides activities and friendship for the retired and semi-retired. Check the website wells.u3asite.uk or call by at the weekly Thursday coffee mornings

from 10.30am to 11.30am at the Portway Annexe. Ingrid Sofrin

WELLS & DISTRICT WILDLIFE GROUP The recent cooler, wetter weather has been appreciated by nature, and by us! However, a bonus of the hot weather has been increased sightings of butterflies, such as painted lady and clouded yellow, which have come from the continent. Insects are still seeking nectar sources so any flowers will be sought after along with seeds and berries. Any seed heads left in gardens will be welcomed by wildlife. Ivy flowers are a great source of Autumn nectar, and their berries will also be eaten by birds in the winter. If you’re walking down Lovers Walk then you will see the ivy in the hedgerows is ‘buzzing’ with bees, hoverflies and other insects. The group will be having two meetings this month. On Tuesday, 13th October between 10am and 12pm, we will be going on a fungus foray. Join Nathan Orr Nature Recovery Ranger from Mendip Hills National Landscape on a fungi and mushroom foray in Stockhill Forest and learn about some of the 13,000 different species that occur in the UK (No foraging). Numbers are limited on this walk so booking is essential, and payment of £5 per person is required in advance. For more details or to reserve a place, please use our website (wdwg.org.uk) or phone 07415 350062 On Tuesday, 27th October there will be a talk by Adrian Coward on badgers. Adrian’s talk will include badger biology, behaviour, tracks and signs, badger problems, persecution, Bovine TB and badger vaccination, and of course the cull. The talk takes place at Wells Museum (enter via side entrance) at 7.30pm. There is full disabled access. Admission is £5 payable on the door (under 16s free) Tea/ Coffee and biscuits will be served in the interval.

WELLS & DISTRICT GARDENING CLUB Well, it did not take long for the beleaguered lawns to green up

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October 2026

n AROUND THE SOCIETIES Town Hall at 7pm for 7.30pm. Everyone very welcome. Members £2, visitors £5.

WELLS RAILWAY FRATERNITY

Wells & District Gardening Club again. The mowers were soon out, the decapitation of the tender green shoots in full swing, the stripes were back and the gardeners were back in control. All’s right with the world! Leaving cynicism apart, across on the other side of the Atlantic in the Land of the Free, there’s an odd paradox. In a number of cities in the States, the height of the grass in your gardens is regulated by the municipal authorities. In other words, if you let your grass grow beyond a certain height then you will face a heavy fine. Moreover, whether you like it or not, your property could be subject to a lowflying crop sprayer targeting specific pests but eliminating everything else as well. Suburban gardening becomes a Hitchcockian nightmare where the poor old gardener takes on the role of Cary Grant in North by Northwest. As someone said, the words ‘pest control ‘ are just Government language for ‘brutal extermination’. Over here we are a more tolerant lot, and if we wish our lawns to be long or short, striped or not, gardens neat or untidy, that is our choice and we should be thankful for it. Since plants generally grow upwards – as we have just noted – our next meeting will be a talk by Alan Eason on ‘Climbers and Wall Shrubs’. Vertical gardening is something we sometimes neglect, and Alan, who is a professional gardener, learnt much from Penelope Hobhouse while working at Hadspen House gardens in Castle Cary. It promises to be an informative and entertaining evening. The event will take place on Thursday, 8th October in Wells

The Wells Railway Fraternity started their new season of talks with a presentation by Paul Finch of the Western Locomotive Association on the subject of how they preserved, restored, maintain and run three examples of the much-loved Western Class diesel hydraulic locomotives. However, before that, Railwells exhibition manager Chris Challis thanked all the fraternity members who helped make August’s Railwells model railway exhibition such a success, with many of the visitors praising the quality of the modelling exhibited. The WLA, custodians of three Western Class locos all now based on the Severn Valley Railway, celebrated their 50th anniversary in 2024 having been formed in Bristol in 1974. Starting with D1062 Western Courier followed by D1048 Western Lady, they were then asked by its owners to look after D1013 Western Ranger as well. These locomotives were designed to haul express passenger and heavy goods trains in the West of England and Wales. The most successful class of Diesel hydraulic locomotives in Britain, they are powered by two Maybach MD655 engines, which go back to use in Zeppelin airships and battle tanks. These are coupled with Voith hydraulic transmissions, but they had relatively short working lives on account of being nonstandard with the rest of British Railways which favoured Diesel

Electric designs, and ended their time hauling stone trains from the local Somerset Limestone Quarries. The talk explained the difficulties in working on and operating mainline diesel engines designed to be used on an everyday basis without the works infrastructure of the then British Railways. On railway locomotives many parts are heavy and are densely packed within the loco body, so removing and replacing components without the facilities of a major works can be very difficult. The modern purpose-built facilities now available at their Kidderminster base, which is shared with other diesel engine groups, contrast well with those rudimentary ones originally used at the Torbay and Dartmouth Railway, making the job easier. Additionally, sourcing spares for 60-year-old designs can be problematic but modern MTU538 V12 engines have been sourced which can be derated to the required 1350hp. With a rolling programme of overhaul and maintenance these popular locomotives can be seen operating with high reliability on the Severn Valley Railway. Wells Railway Fraternity’s next evening meeting will be on the 13th October in Wells Town Hall at 7.30pm, when the speaker will be the Filmmaker David Parker talking about ‘How we made the Golden Age of Steam’. New members and guests are always welcome. The Fraternity’s programme features a wide range of railway subjects, from historic times through to the modern day, with both full-size and modelling

subjects being covered. For more information about the Wells Railway Fraternity and its programme of meetings, see the railwells.com website.

WOOKEY HOLE WI The 16th of September marks the 111th anniversary of the WI, and we celebrated at our meeting by many of us wearing something purple or lilac. It’s the colour of the suffragettes and represents dignity and loyalty, which reflects the values of the WI. It was suggested in the autumn edition of the WI magazine that three ladies are photographed together to represent 111 years of friendship (1+1+1= 111) and we had fun doing this (see photo in this feature). Our banner, which we made for the centenary, also represents the suffragettes with the colours purple, white for purity and green for hope. Many ladies who were suffragettes went on to form the WI, so strong ladies indeed! Our speaker at this meeting was Philip Draper, who told us so many interesting facts about Somerset Churches. During August we had a garden party at President Jill’s house and were pleased to welcome Shirley our county chairman, Brena from our board of trustees and Sandra our area advisor. The company, weather and food were perfect. Our next meeting is on Monday, 5th October at 2pm in Wookey Hole Hotel. We do have vacancies at our WI so we would be delighted to welcome any new ladies. We meet on the first Monday of the month at 2pm, so there’s no night driving and parking outside the hotel. There are no steps to worry about either and we can give lifts – most of us live in Wells. Do pay us a visit. For further information, contact Jill on 01749 675477.

WELLS TUESDAY WI Everything seems to have gone a little crazy of late! Following our lovely chilled autumn picnic we embarked upon the craziness that was the Moat Boat Race. It was our first attempt at the event and we were rather proud of the result. The girls looked great with their gorgeous hats (how lucky are we to have Wookey Hole WI

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October 2026

n AROUND THE SOCIETIES From page 41 a milliner in our midst?), and outfits giving a modern twist to the suffragette theme. We even saved the purple chairs from a skip. The raft, MOATivated Women, featured a suffragette figurehead and a waterproof version of our gorgeous banner. In conjunction to this we also had a stall with two games on the recreation ground – hook a duck (with some unpleasant floaters!) to represent the clean rivers campaign, and chuck a poo in the loo (brown beanbags in a variety of styles!), to support the clean toilets campaign. The WI isn’t all about crafts and jam! We had lots of fun in both events and raised £200 for Voices, a Bath-based charity who support victims of domestic abuse. A win/ win all-round. It was hysterical to find ourselves in The Times online in their News in Pictures section – following a photo of gravy wrestling! In other news we had the amazing, internationally renowned Dr Lucy Pollock at our meeting talking about getting older for people who don’t want to – which describes our ladies beautifully. She was funny, empathetic and informative all at the same time. Some of the things she mentioned were the importance of friendship, learning new skills and keeping active, which was great as we smugly pointed out we have just been featured in WI Life as one of the top-three sporty WI groups in the Country… Maybe it’s just as well they didn’t see us in the Moat Boat Race after all!

WELLS NATURAL HISTORY & ARCHAEOLOGY SOCIETY Our programme of winter talks has now been finalised. We have a wonderful line-up of topics and presenters – details of which can be viewed on the WNHAS section of the Wells & Mendip Museum website. As well as organising talks and trips, the society, now in its 138th year, continues to work closely with the museum, providing financial support where needed in line with our charitable objectives. Recently we paid for an upgrade to the museum’s alarm system, something that needed to

be done in a short timescale and we were on hand to help. Anyone interested in helping to shape our programme of talks and trips, please contact us on wnhas2023@gmail.com.

WELLS ROTARY CLUB Another busy month has seen further work by Rotarians building raised beds and landscaping at the Stoberry School sensory garden and the near-completion of the picnic area on the Strawberry Line at Dulcot. We have also been planning the Variety Night showcasing local talent in aid of charity, to be held next May in the Wookey Hole Theatre. If you, your children or grandchildren, would like to step into the spotlight, whether in a group or as individuals, please see the advertisement appearing on page seven in this edition of Wells Voice. It promises to be a great night! We are also finalising our plans to bring practical advice and equipment to reduce the risk of flooding in those households currently at risk of flash floods in Wells. The Council and others have identified approximately 85 such homes to date. We aim to supply those householders who seek our help with effective equipment at just 20 per cent of its retail cost. We hope to be able to advertise this service to the local community very shortly. We had hoped to hold a street collection for the flood victims in Nepal during September but, having organised rotas and got our collecting buckets ready, we were unfortunately unable to secure the necessary permit from the County Council in time. We are now hoping to secure a permit for a collection at a later date, when the need for help will undoubtedly still exist in the affected areas.

WELLS FLORAL ART GROUP This month, our chairman Sylvia Ingham welcomed area demonstrator Julia Harrison, whose intriguingly titled demonstration, ‘Backwards and Forwards’ was eagerly anticipated by everyone. Julia, who is well known for her fabulous garden foliage and flowers, wowed us by using bold architectural shapes, unusual

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Wells Floral Art Group textures and pliable leaves alongside amusing stories and impressive spelling! Her first design was built around a long horizontal perspex box – not to be likened to a glass coffin, Julia joked. To soften the sharp edges, Julia created two high-impact designs showcasing blue caryopteris, eucalyptus, ampolopsis brevi punculis, eryngium, soft purple lisiantus, piccolini, limonium and silverbacked feijoa foliage. Next was a clever lesson in less-is-more by crossing stems and using negative spaces. Imagine it’s like a windy garden, said Julia. A box built from insulation boards and packing paper held two trays featuring pieris cascading berries, piccolini, solomio, kangaroo paw, caryopteris. Grasses and solidago rugosa fireworks completed this stunning display. The third creation was a vertical hand-tie cleverly attached to a ’fireguard’ with bronze net mesh, phormium swirled around voile fabric and rusty metal mesh for depth. Larkspur, white lisianthus, gypsophila, freesias and senecio ‘Angel Wings’ made up the beautiful hand-tie. Fourth was an eye-catching traditional arrangement of

kangaroo paw, pink marble photinia, cestrum parqui, glycerined beech, carnations, vibrant gerberas and red cotinus leaves which grounded the piece perfectly. Finally, a rustic garage find focused on a display inspired by West Country artist, Norma Harris. Deep purple garden tones of lavetera and armeria ‘ballerina’ contrasted beautifully with mimosa spikes – the genius use of naked gerbera stalks provided major wow factor and worked beautifully with ‘fashionista’ alstroemeria and ‘prado mint’ carnations. Lastly, coloured filaments bent into bold hoops were added to create this jawdropping display. In total, eight spectacular arrangements were awarded to the lucky raffle winners. Janet Avery gave the vote of thanks to much applause, and Myrtle Stephens and Pat Keene kindly organised teas. Our open meeting is on Tuesday, 6th October at Wells Little Theatre at 7pm with national demonstrator Sarah Fenton on the theme ’A Floral Dance’. Tickets are £20, available from Suzy on 07966 654307. Rosie Cutbill

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n SPORT

Champions crowned at Wells Tennis Club TENNIS

The next Rapidplay event will be held on 24th October at the Town Hall

Wells Chess Club relocates for autumn CHESS AS THE long, hot summer draws to a close, the chess season starts to swing into gear. Wells Chess Club took a break over August and relocated back to their old stomping ground in The White Hart on Sadler Street. The Junior Section, run by Sasha Matlak, has moved to the Portway Annexe. Hopefully both will thrive in their new venues. Wells Chess Club is also running its third annual Autumn Rapidplay event on 24th October in Wells Town Hall. It’s a great opportunity for players of all levels to come together for a day of faster format chess in a fabulous location. It’s a great opportunity for anyone wanting to try out tournament chess for the first time, or returning to the board after a break. While the over-the-board season doesn’t start until the end of September, Wells Chess played the first round

of their 4NCL online league on 9th September. There was some great chess on display as the A-Team dismantled their Guilford opponents with a score of 3.5 to 0.5. Wins for Jeremy Lynn, Jamie Eales and Leon Nelson and a draw for Matt Goatcher made sure that Wells finished week 1 at the top of Division 1. The B-Team suffered a narrow loss, 2.5 to 1.5, in Division 3 at the hands of the English Deaf Chess Association team, despite good results for Greg Roome and Ed Farms. Wells Chess Club 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, with juniors from 5.30pm at the Portway Annexe. More information on wellschess.co.uk and email at wellschessclub@ outlook.com.

SUNDAY, 13th of September was Club Championship Finals Day at Wells Tennis Club. After various rounds for each of the categories, it was the day to see who would take home the biggest piece of silverware! The weather was kind enough for all the matches to be played, but it did see the spectators huddling under the gazebo to keep dry. Congratulations go to Becky Browning and Nik Healey for winning the singles matches. Also to Kevin Durney and Matt Goatcher, and Corali Sacerdote and Wendy Edwards who took home the doubles cups. In the mixed finals, Nik Healey and Daisy Karnas won their match, while Sue Llorca and Martyn Holliday won the over-55 mixed. The championship has kept everyone playing after the summer league finished and

provided a good warm up for those taking part in the North Somerset Winter League. The fundraising for the clubhouse has also been in full swing. The club now has over £100,000 and with planning permission applied for and hopefully soon to be announced, the final push is on. If you would like to be the club’s last court sponsor or can help them get this project underway, please contact wellstennissecretary@gmail. com. For more info, visit www. wellstc.co.uk/clubhouse.

Congratulations to all winners at the tennis club’s Finals Day

The Wells darts season ends with finals and presentations DARTS THE WELLS and District Darts League held its end-of-season Finals and Presentation night on Tuesday, 1st September at Wells Football Club. The season consisted of two Divisions with nine teams in each from Wells, Shepton Mallet, Glastonbury, Cheddar, Chewton Mendip and West Harptree.

After another successful summer season, the night consisted of the semi-finals and then the finals for the Division One and Division Two Individuals competition. Presentations were then given out to the teams that were runners-up and winners of Division One and Division Two, then for the Individuals competitions, the person with

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the most 180s in the season and the person with the highest checkout. A raffle was held on the night with proceeds going towards the charities supported by the league, which are the Multiple Sclerosis Trust and the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance. The committee would like to thank The White Hart, The Bishop’s Eye and the Wells

Football Club for donations, and to people who brought prizes in on the night. Also thanks to Wells Football Club for allowing the club to hold its event there. The winter season will be starting in October. For more information, please check out their website at www. wellsdistrictdarts.co.uk, or the club’s Facebook page ‘Wells & District Darts League’.

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A welcome weather change for memorial open GOLF – WELLS GOLF CLUB WELLS Golf Club hosted the Queen Elizabeth II Memorial Open 4BBB on a fine autumnal day, providing a welcome change in conditions following the long summer drought. With recent rainfall, the course is recovering well, and the greens were in excellent condition. This was reflected in the remarkable number of Twos recorded throughout the field.

Jackie and Paul Lewer of Wells Golf Club, winners with a score of 47

Home pairings The winners were Paul Lewer (10) and Jackie Lewer (19) of Wells Golf Club, who returned an excellent score of 47 points. It was a steady and consistent round, with Paul and Jackie complementing each other perfectly throughout. John Harvey (12) and Joseph Harvey (22) finished runners-up with 44 points, despite recording

a blob during their round. Their score was boosted by four fourpoint holes, including three birdies from Joseph on par 3s and a birdie from John on the 18th. Third place went to the home pairing of Mark Neighbour (7) and Richard Ashby (9) with 43 points, taking the place on countback from Reuben Ashton (8) and Richard Rowntree (10). The latter also secured their

position on countback, with three other Wells pairs finishing on the same score. Local knowledge clearly proved valuable, with Wells pairings occupying a total of 15 of the top 16 places. Visiting pairings The leading visiting pair were Andrew Clueit (8) and Luke Silver (9) from Minehead

Golf Club, who scored 43 points. Their solid round included three birdies. Second among the visiting teams were Phillip Piercy (0) and Richard Rodgers (19) of Orchardleigh Golf Club, who recorded 39 points on countback. Their round included two birdies and an eagle – a superb 2 on the par-4 11th. Third place among the visitors went to Paul Taylor (11) and Ian Rogers (26) of Lansdown Golf Club, also with 39 points, again decided on countback. A special thank you goes to the large group from Orchardleigh Golf Club who travelled to Wells to take part. It was fantastic to welcome so many visitors to the club. Congratulations to all of our winners and prize winners, and thank you to everyone who took part in this year’s Queen Elizabeth II Memorial Open 4BBB.

Hotly contested event for the junior players at Mendip GOLF – MENDIP GOLF CLUB Juniors’ Competition results Junior Club Championships was a hotly contested event, with a nine-hole event for the young juniors, an 18-hole stableford for players with handicap from 24 up to 54 and a medal competition for players with handicaps up to 24. The Junior Club Champion for 2026 is Junior Captain, Libbie Dezis. The Pete Davis Trophy for best nett score went to Lauren Morris. The Junior Stableford Champion was Hector BrookingClarke, and the Geoff Fisher Golf Development Trophy went to Jacob Hartley. This event also concluded the Junior Order of Merit and the winner was Hector BrookingClarke. Congratulations to all. Men’s Competition results The Anniversary Cup was won by Miles Hackett, with a fine nett 66, playing off a 3 handicap. Runner up was Tim Flagg, also with a 66, losing out on countback. The best

gross score was Rob Edney with a 72, just pipping Club Champion Dan Owen on countback. Ladies’ Competition results Wyke Trophy – this Four Ball Betterball Stableford Matchplay is played by the Ladies’ Section versus the Senior Men’s Section. Seniors’ Captain, Paul Godwin had called up his ‘best’ troops, a mixture of low-to-medium handicappers, while acting Ladies’ Captain for the Day, Jane Ball, relied on youth and experience with a mix of ages from 12 to 80 of low, medium and high handicappers, proving that competitive golf can be played by anyone at any age. All the matches were closely fought with some going to the 18th hole. Early results indicated the match was going to be close, and at the halfway stage the match was drawn. However, the last two matches were won by the Seniors, giving them overall victory by 4.5 points to 2.5. Win or lose, it didn’t matter

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The three winners of the Mendip Golf Club Junior Club Championships too much in the end. The real winners on the day were the camaraderie between the teams, strengthening the links between the Sections, making and renewing friendships from a shared love of golf and rounding off the day with a very good meal provided by the catering team. Ladies Club Foursomes & Daily Mail Qualifier was won by Maureen Charlton and Pauline Young with 31 points, closely followed by Jennifer Ahlberg and Linda Papdopoullos with

31 points. Maureen & Pauline will represent Mendip Golf Club in the national Daily Mail Foursomes in 2027. Mixed Competition results Mendip Vase 4BBB Open attracted a field of 94 players. The winning pair, with a fabulous score of 47 points, was Stephen Ledger and Pater Daulby. Closely followed by Chris Macey and Toby Cole on 46 points. Scoring was so good, that the top 14 pairs all scored over 40 points.

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Highs and lows for Wells City FC FOOTBALL Mixed fortunes for Wells It’s been a mixed few weeks for the first team, with wins and losses in both the FA Cup and League. In the FA Cup on the 22nd August, they beat Risborough Rangers from the South Midlands Football League Premier Division in the Preliminary Round 3-1 with goals from Raphael Oppong, captain Jake Brown and Jacob Reader. In the next round they were home to Hungerford Town, a very different challenge, as Hungerford play in the Southern League Division 1 South, a league above Wells. With Hungerford having just been relegated from the Premier Division, but with the core of the same squad, this provided too great a task, Wells losing 4-0 to end this season’s cup run. In the league, Wells had a comfortable 10-0 win at home to a struggling Wellington side on 29th August, with goals scored by Jacob Reader (4), James Tait (3), Jake Brown (2) and Sam Towler with his first for the club. Unfortunately, this was followed by losses to

local rivals Street 1-0 on the 1st September, followed by a loss to high flying Buckland Athletic 3-1 away on 12th September with the Wells goal from Jacob Reader. Reserves start well The reserves meanwhile, who tend to start the season slowly, have this season broken that habit, being unbeaten in their first five fixtures – winning three and drawing two. Particularly pleasing for the club is the emergence of a number of under-18 players in the reserve team squad who, when given the opportunity, have performed admirably. On 29th September they had a tough fixture away on the Astroturf at Portishead Reserves, but came away with a credible 2-2 draw, with goals from Max Ambrosini and Joshua Ryrie – his first goal for the reserves. Against Congresbury on 12th September the squad included seven under-18s. The game started badly for Wells going two goals behind, but they showed spirit to recover to win the game 4-2 with goals from Max Ambrosini (2), and under-18s Shea Donnelly and Max Parfitt both with their first goals for the reserves. Gary Andrews

WELLS CITY HOME FIXTURES Saturday, 26th September

As vs Chilcompton Sports Reserves

2pm

Athletic Ground

Sunday, 27th September

Ladies vs Keynsham Town

2pm

Athletic Ground

Monday, 29th September

U18s vs Mendip Broadwalk

7.30pm Athletic Ground

Sunday, 4th October

Ladies vs Bath City

2pm

Athletic Ground

Tuesday, 13th October

U18s vs Paulton Rovers

2pm

Athletic Ground

Saturday, 17th October

Firsts vs Buckland Athletic

7.30pm Athletic Ground

Sunday, 18th October

Ladies vs Paulton Rovers

3pm

Athletic Ground

Saturday, 24th October

Firsts vs Tavistock Recreation

2pm

Athletic Ground

Wednesday, 31st October

Firsts vs Bovey Tracey

3pm

Athletic Ground

Sunday, 1st November

Ladies vs Weston-super-Mare

2pm

Athletic Ground

Knockout winner, Hilary Austin, receiving her trophy from Les Cater

Croquet social day a success CROQUET

On Saturday, 19th of September, Wells City took on Liskeard at home. Despite Wells playing a good match, the final score was 3-1 to Liskeard

Got News? Call 07809 121434

MEMBERS of the Palace Croquet Club enjoyed a fun and social day on the lawns at the Bishop’s Palace recently. This is a popular tournament with members playing several games of golf croquet, each with a different partner. The object is to score as many hoops as

possible in a timed game, so it is fast and with little thinking time. The winner with the highest total at the end of the day was Marion Cooke. In the afternoon, members watched the final of the in-house knockout competition between Nicky Davey and Hilary Austin This game went to a ‘golden hoop’ and was won by Hilary.

Email: news@wellsvoice.co.uk

wellsvoice

October 2026

n TAKE A BREAK

Sudoku

Each row, column and square (9 spaces each) needs to be filled out with the numbers 1-9, without repeating any numbers within the row, column or square.

For younger readers

4 8 9 3 8 5 9 7 8 6 2 6

Easier sudoku Rules the same as the Fiend, but only six numbers in each box, row and column

R 3 1

I 5

E H

A A

E O

2 1

Txtpert

3 2 6

Down 1 726 (3) 2 2433824 (7) 4 6722 (4) 5 24766 (5) 7 787 (3) 8 624 (3)

Across 1 728 (3) 2 228 (3) 3 66673 (5) 6 8245 (4) 7 72632 (5) 9 4663 (4) 10 744 (3)

Txtpert O

Use the phone keypad to decode the clues. For example: 2 could be A, B or C ... and 5678 could be LOST

Solutions A

Theme: Animal world

Txtpert

c i v it y Vi l la g e

2 7 1

8 7 9

8 2

1 4

2026

WELLS SUNDAY MARKET In Wells Market Place BA5 2RB

Market dates: 12 July, 9 August, 13 September, 8 November, 12 & 13 December For more info, visit: https://www.wells.gov.uk or visit our Facebook page @Wells Market

To advertise, contact Dean on 07809 121434

Email: sales@wellsvoice.co.uk

October 2026

wellsvoice CLEANING SERVICES

47 NEWSPAPER DELIVERY SERVICE

NEWSPAPER DELIVERY IN YOUR AREA

• Window Cleaning • Conservatory Cleaning • Fascia & Soffit Cleaning

Wookey Hub Deliveries Cheapest local delivery service

• Gutter Clearance • Solar Panel Cleaning

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HOUSE CLEARANCE

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info@bubbles-and-suds.co.uk www.bubbles-and-suds.co.uk

Contact Andy or Annette on 01749 672784 Email thehubdeliveries@gmail.com

LANDSCAPING & GARDENING

AERIALS

EDEN PONDS

& LANDSCAPING WELLS

House clearance & waste management services

HOUSE CLEARANCE GARAGE CLEARANCE GARDEN CLEARANCE GENERAL RUBBISH CLEARANCE FULLY LICENSED AND INSURED

MINIMUM COLLECTION FROM £59 INC VAT - FREE QUOTATIONS

Visit us: www.junkmonsters.co.uk Email us: info@junkmonsters.co.uk Call us: 07592 506 003 LEAFLET DISTRIBUTION

LEAFLET DISTRIBUTION Want your leaflet delivered with

PAINTING AND DECORATING

WE CAN HELP! CALL DEAN ON

07809 121434 Got News? Call 07809 121434

Keward Park Glastonbury Road Wells BA5 1QE 01749 674466 07713 598226

NICKI AND JON HANDY PEOPLE

PAINTING & DECORATING REPAIRS & MAINTENANCE KITCHEN FITTING TILING

For all your computing needs

www.nickiandjon.com

Nicki Wetton info@nickiandjon.com Jonathan Wetton TEL: 07707 059188

ROOFING SERVICES

door-to-door?

COMPUTER SERVICES

Wide variety of computers and accessories in stock – visit our extensive showroom at Keward Park. Expert advice on computer repairs, with a call-out service for local businesses and residents.

www.wellscope.co.uk

PRIVATE TUITION

Wells Tutors S CLARK ROOFING SERVICES A family-run business with 43 years’ experience, based in Wells. Free quotes, no obligation.

l Solar panel bird guards l Roof repair l Roof renovation l Ventilation repairs l Roof replacement l Gutter maintenance l Gutter facsia board and soffit replace

07817 274399 / 01749 671156 steveclark48@icloud.com

Core subjects ages 7-18 including GCSE & A level

Tutoring and help

Contact: Alison 07746 743193 learning@wellstutors.co.uk www.wellstutors.co.uk

Email: news@wellsvoice.co.uk

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