Axbridge News: decision deadline looms for Cheddar Res 2 as costs increase; Axbridge Town Council’s extra-ordinary meeting to scrutinise finances; Wessex Water drop-in dates; plus a local history trip – and the Axbridge Diary

May 28, 2026

By Harry Mottram: It’s the one story I get asked about most: Cheddar Res 2. When is going to be built, where will the access road go, and will it affect house prices with all the construction traffic? Having ploughed through Ofwat’s scrutiny documents it is not difficult to see why the project is proceeding with caution. West Country Water and Environment (WCWE) – an industry umbrella group that includes West Country Water who own Bristol Water – have a series of ‘gates’ they need to go though in Ofwat’s evaluation of the project and how much it will cost. With the way HS2 costs spiralled out of control it’s not hard to see why politically a project that goes over budget can create a political crisis. Few would doubt that we need better water resilience – but how, where and what is the question – and with Government backing a new reservoir next to the current one along with a pipeline to Devon and a new treatment works is the solution from the authorities.

But there’s a but. Having read through the pages and pages of the scrutiny documents there is a doubt about the plans – since project Cheddar Res 2 cleared gate’s one and two the expected costs have risen by 173% up from £688.23 million to £1,876.81 million. The reasons are: “…developments in scope, design maturity and the associated risk profile, and is primarily attributable to further definition of the solution. In particular, this includes progression to a more developed reservoir design (and associated uncertainties), the addition of the 73 km pipeline to Wimbleball, and the inclusion of additional pumping and associated infrastructure.”

Now WCWE who are behind Cheddar Res 2 have to produce more details of the anticipated costs for gates three and four – which is as any engineer will tell you is an uncertain science. The next key date is 23 June for them to provide further information followed by December this year, and early in 2027 they will hope for Ofwat’s green light. It seems unlikely the project would be halted but in the documents it says if in the meantime a cheaper alternative to Cheddar Res 2 was found – then things could change. I covered the original plans back in 2016 when it was rising costs that put the kibosh on that more modest project – and politics can change a Government’s priorities as has happened with HS2. The odds suggest it will go ahead but one thing is certain – it will cost more than expected. And some of those costs will inevitably fall on us consumers.

Axbridge Town Council

On Monday 1 June 2026 at 6.30pm there is an extra-ordinary meeting of Axbridge Town Council to scrutinise a set of accounts – which you can read on their website at https://www.axbridge-tc.gov.uk/the-council/minutes-agendas/

The documents under discussion are Agenda Item 4.1 External Audit Section 1 Annual Governance Statement 2025 26 (pdf) Agenda Item 4.2a External Audit Section 2 Accounting Statements 2025 2026 (pdf) Agenda Item 4.2b Explanation Of Variances (pdf) Agenda Item 4.2b Explanation Of Variances Detail (pdf)

For those keen on numbers they make interesting reading with the Explanation of Variances revealing details of grants, the costs of grass cutting, vehicle speed indicator devices, maintenance of the public toilets and even the costs of the mayor’s regalia.

Water notes

Bristol Water owned by South West Water provide our drinking water – and rather confusingly we also have another company in Wessex Water who sort out our sewage and waste water which is why we get two bills. If you live in Taunton or Yeovil Wessex provides both – essentially it is down to the history of water boards and later companies as to why we have two providers. Wessex Water have organised community drop ins this summer with the nearest one to us is at Cheddar library – with three dates of 15 July, 9 September and 11 November. You can quiz their people on all things water between 10am-12noon and 1-2pm. The sessions give you a chance to find out about your bill, get advice on saving water and avoiding blockages and get information about water quality, plumbing and drainage. Their magazine Source has dropped through Axbridge letterboxes. See https://www.wessexwater.co.uk/

Axbridge Local History

The group based at King John’s Hunting Lodge have a trip planned to visit the SS Gt Britain on Wednesday 17^th June with a mini bus from the Square pick up at 9.45am. The cost will be a max of £30 per head payable on the day. If you are interested and would like to join the society email Liz at moorlandfm@btinternet.com for more details.

Incidently Axbridge’s Rumble in the Jumble takes place on Sunday 28^th June from 10am and proceeds will go towards the King John’s Hunting Lodge, so come to Axbridge and have a browse around the town. The Museum will be having a table top sale and many interesting books will be offered for a modest fee.

Axbridge Diary of Events

Some Axbridge dates coming up. Send Axbridge events to me and I’ll try to keep the list updated. Email: harryfmottram@gmail.com I’ll also post on my website at https://www.harrymottram.co.uk/diary/

Coming up is a Fun Day in the Square, Open Gardens, pantomime recruitment and lots of events at the Axe Vale Arts centre – check them out as for a small town Axbridge punches above its weight.

Harry Mottram

Note: I get asked this frequently so just to repeat I write up these stories from time to time out of personal interest – all the information is in the public domain – I put it together, so it makes sense to me. I am not paid – my main job is covering Bath for Bath Voice News and ICSM of Bridgwater which is about business insolvencies. I have lived in Old Church Road for over 25 years and am married to Linda – our four children went to the local state schools. I’ve always taken an interest in local affairs having worked as a journalist in Somerset for many years. More at at www.harrymottram.co.uk and social media on X as @harrythe spiv, Facebook, Blue Sky, LinkedIn, Instagram, Threads and God knows where else!

Axbridge News: More details on Cheddar Reservoir 2 revealed; car crash report; new town councillor; reports of attempted break-ins; Somerset Live’s profile of Axbridge; plus what’s on and a new estate in the town takes shape

Byharrymottram

May 24, 2026

By Harry Mottram: More details have emerged for the new treatment works to be constructed by the current buildings on the Axbridge side of the reservoir as part of the Cheddar Reservoir 2 project. The map of the planned site posted online by a resident shows the new treatment works taking up far more space than the existing one in the field running alongside Portmead Drove and the reservoir embankment with an array of buildings. Absent from the image of the Treatment Process Units is the anticipated access road for the building site south of the reservoir which is expected to run around the western edge of the embankment.

Covering an area of three full sized football pitches the site dwarfs the old one which is not inconsiderable in size as can be observed if you walk around the reservoir. The field is used for grazing for livestock, and features a mature oak tree which would be in the way of the buildings and is often waterlogged in winter. If the plan is put into action this or next year as is planned then quite a few trees would also go – however until planning permission is applied for with more details we can only speculate. The main photo shows the field in question and the footpath leading across it.

Sergeant of The Mace

For those with an interest in the details of how Axbridge works the town council meetings are essential to understand some of the everyday mechanics of the town. Car parks, footpaths, dog poo bins, planning applications and licensing to name but a few topics. In the latest minutes on the council’s website to be published for the March 9^th meeting reveals that Ray Sparks – the new landlord of The Oak House – has been co-opted as a town councillor. Ray is also listed as one of the ceremonial officers of the town council as the Sergeant of The Mace – in previous centuries a role which would have given him the powers of arrest, to help maintain law and order and to act as a body-guard for the mayor. In Medieval times a mace was also a club weapon to be used to beat the heads of knights in or to be swung around in close quarter fighting. Now it is more ceremonial – to carry the symbols of office – the mace represents the power of the council and the mayor – and to ensure everything is in order at civic ceremonies. Sadly it doesn’t give him the power to arrest boy racers who race through the town in the early hours! For details of the the council visit https://www.axbridge-tc.gov.uk/

Car crash

Police have reported on a serious car crash on the A38 at near Cross and Lower Weare. Writing for Somerset Live, Shannon Brown penned: “A police car has been involved in a crash on the A38 in Somerset. One person was taken to hospital following a collision between Rooksbridge and Axbridge involving a marked Avon and Somerset Police car. The police car had been pursuing a vehicle linked to a wanted person at the time of the collision, a spokesperson for the force said. Officers spotted the vehicle at around 7.25pm on Thursday, May 21 and began a chase when the driver failed to stop. At 7.28pm, the police car was involved in a crash with an unrelated vehicle occupied by two members of the public. They were treated by paramedics at the scene, and one person was taken to hospital for assessment for injuries not believed to be life-changing or life-threatening.”

The A38 section of Turnpike Road linking Cross to Tarnock has seen numerous road traffic accidents over the years with the junctions at Cross, Kingsway and Old Coach Road blackspots for crashes.

Crime

Residents have been using Facebook to alert householders in the town of attempted break-ins at night in the last few weeks. West Street, Clover Ground and Hippersley Drive have all seen reports of attempts by unknown persons to force an entry into garages. Avon and Somerset Police give this advice: “During the summer months, with lighter evenings and many people spending more time away from home or on holiday, burglaries remain an important priority for us. Taking simple steps can help keep your property secure.”

Lock your doors and windows before going out.
Invest in a light timer and use it when you are out.
Report any suspicious activity in the area to the police.
Invest in a burglary alarm and CCTV camera’s for added security.
Flood lights are good to deter potential burglars.
Keep keys locked away somewhere secure at night.

For more information can be found on our website www.avonandsomerset.police.uk/crime-prevention-advice.

Somerset Live

The online news site Somerset Live has run a portrait of Axbridge on its website which it describes as a “The Somerset town with Tudor streets ‘unchanged for 600 years’” By which we assume the article by Kate Wilson refers to the High Street and King John’s Hunting Lodge. She describes Axbridge as ‘looking virtually unchanged for six centuries’ which suggests the writer hasn’t noted much of the listed buildings are Georgian and Victorian – and there’s no mention of the 20^th and 21^st century housing. Despite that it is always good for the town to receive such positive coverage – although the news site reported that the next Axbridge pageant is in 2030. I contacted the editor to point out the next pageant is in 2029 over the August Bank Holiday weekend. The article was then updated.

Axbridge Diary

I try to keep it up to date but it is helpful if organisers email me at harryfmottram@gmail.com or send me a message using social media. There are many events coming up at Axe Vale Arts Centre in West Street including workshops – some for youngsters – the regular acoustic and poetry nights which are free – and live music including Tango Calor – an Argentinian inspired band on 14th June. In July there is a Sports and Social fun day in the Square on July 11th, plus there’s Rumble in the Jumble, Open Gardens and a pantomime recruitment event – check out the dates at: https://www.harrymottram.co.uk/diary/

New Axbridge

The estate off Houlgate Way is nearing completion with many of the properties built by Bellway Homes now occupied with the new residents taking part in the town’s events such as the Progressive Supper and their children attending school. Out of curiosity I took a wander around the estate of more than 50 homes – some detached, some semis and some terraced – and some described as ‘affordable housing.’ Lavendar Rise as the estate is known has homes on the market from £520,000 to £800,000 – I can’t comment on the prices but the layout is attractive with views across the Levels for some – and the chicken farm at Townsend for others. There is a playground, a car park and several green areas or mini parks with trees and shrubs – plus two ponds to encourage wildlife.

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Axbridge News: The town has a new mayor; Cheddar Res 2; major roadworks at Churchill; Bristol Airport expansion across the A38; Progressive Supper; Axbridge Diary; and more development news

Byharrymottram

May 16, 2026

By Harry Mottram: Many in the town will know of the two Facebook sites that have much news, views and adverts for events and businesses: Axbridge Connected and Axbridge Community. As one of the admins for Axbridge Community I am amazed that the site has more than three and half thousand members since the population of the town is just over 2,000! There are members from the towns and villages surrounding Axbridge but also former residents who live as far away as Australia and Canada – and they like to keep in touch. There is also the more nostalgic Facebook site of OLD AXBRIDGE PHOTO’s (and new) which has a lot of photos and memories – and some new – of the town and its many residents. With the demise of local newspapers – my main source of employment as a reporter and editor for decades – social media sites have become a vital centre of news.

New Mayor

At the Mayor Making and Annual Meeting of Axbridge Town Council on Monday, May 11, 2026, Richard Willis was voted in as the new mayor of the town for 2026-2027 by councillors. His deputy will be Graham Page, while the other ceremonial posts were confirmed as Ray Sparks was appointed as Sergeant at Mace, Andres Bolado appointed as Town Bailiff, Nigel Scott be appointed as Town Crier and Tricia Clark was appointed as Keeper of the Bells. Sometimes known as the Tricorn hat brigade the posts although largely ceremonial have a long history and in the past held considerable power from law and order to checking weights and measures in the market. Perhaps the most high profile today of these positions is that of town crier with Nigel Scott proving a popular incumbent with his bell, cloak and strong voice. The outgoing mayor Pauline Ham was thanked for her work in the town and will continue to serve as a councillor having previously worn the chain of office in the past.

On his social media site, Richard Willis wrote: “It’s not every day you get appointed as the Mayor of the Town I have loved living in for the past 20+ years, the place where I married Amy Willis 25 years ago, thanks to everyone who came to the ceremony, it’s an absolute pleasure to be the Mayor of Axbridge for the next year.”

The role of the mayor dates to 1557 when Queen Mary I transformed the governance of the town from a Guild to a Borough Corporation. The town dates to the Early Medieval Saxon era of the 10^th century with the first of several charters for trade and governance granted by King John in 1204. In 1229 Henry granted another charter – and this one is the one to be marked by the next Axbridge Pageant in 2029.

Don’t forget the mayor, deputy, councillors and other officers such as the town crier are volunteers who do their best for the town. The council has limited powers with most held at county hall in Taunton – but they can give views on planning, maintain the footpaths, Furlong Field and other assets of the town – including the carparks. Details on the council at https://www.axbridge-tc.gov.uk/

*This is the field where the new filtration station is proposed to be built – currently it is used for livestock with a well used footpath from Axbridge to the Reservoir*

Cheddar Res 2

The new reservoir to built next to Cheddar Reservoir will hold considerably more water than the existing one despite covering a similar area. By being deeper the amount of water it could hold is around 8.2 billion litres compared to 6.1 billion litres. The design will be different with the Cheddar Res 2 which is strawberry shaped – the new one will have an irregular shape or as I call it like an amoeba and will feature areas for wildlife and possibly floating islands for wildlife. Cheddar Reservoir 2 will be constructed with a new earth embankment like its sister, with concrete sides and probably a clay bottom using the geology of the valley to help seal the water in.

*A graphic published by Bristol Water showing the second reservoir*

Apart from the reservoir which will have a large construction site area, there will be a new access road and a new Water Treatment Works (WTW) next to the existing River Axe pretreatment facility, which will ‘be refurbished and integrated with the new WTW for operational efficiency.’

West Country Water and Environment is the water utility umbrella group for the region – they are behind the project that includes South West Water who own Bristol Water and the Res. There is Government backing so despite previous delays Axbridge News understands the new reservoir will be built – whoever is resident in Number 10 Downing Street. Consultations, excavations and planning proposals are expected this and next year with the first water flowing into the new reservoir from 2030.

Churchill

For those who travel up the A38 towards Bristol there will be major roadworks at Churchill starting on Monday 18 May. North Somerset Council said: “The Churchill traffic improvement scheme aims to alleviate congestion, improve traffic flow, and enhance both current and future bus services. Under the approved design, the existing crossroads will be transformed into a roundabout with smart traffic signals.”

The plans are designed to improve traffic flow, reduce congestion, and provide a safer, more efficient route for all users with a bus lane safer pedestrian access. Work will take months with a completion date in 2027.

Bristol Airport

Up the A38 from Churchill Bristol Airport have announced plans to expand to serve 15 million passengers per year and to fly to farther destinations like America and the Middle East. Although I’ve chartered some of these plans already the airport has now published more details. These include expanding the airport to absorb neighbouring Cook’s Farm to the north west, increase the size of the terminal building by almost half, and lengthen the runway — with landing lights to cross the A38 and be installed on Felton Common. Plus there is a planned change to the A38 with it being rerouted slightly to allow for the runway extension as far as I understand.

Progressive Supper

The annual charity progressive supper is set for Saturday November 21, 2026, with as last year the help of The Oak House Hotel. The new landlord Ray Sparks has kindly granted the use of the main function area to host the start and finish of the event which sees diners consuming a three course meal in three different locations on the night. More details nearer the time but some details of last year’s supper are here: https://www.harrymottram.co.uk/journalist/axbridge/axbridge-features/progressive-supper-2025/

Axbridge Diary

Events in the town are listed here: https://www.harrymottram.co.uk/diary/

I try to keep it up to date but it is helpful if organisers email me at harryfmottram@gmail.com or send me a message using social media. Events coming up include those at Axe Vale Arts Centre, Fun Day in The Square in July and the carnival in September.

The area indicated by Strongvox for their planned estate

Development News

Strongvox have indicated they will put in planning permission this year to build 43 homes in the field at the end of Orchard Way in the town. On their website they show two new sites – both green fields – where they plan to build new homes – worth keeping an eye on their website at https://www.strongvox.co.uk/developments/ .

Close to Axbridge, Lidl wish to build a supermarket on Upper New Road near the filling station and Cheddar’s allotments, while the former yogurt factory on the A371 is to be converted to housing and other buildings. The link road to the works for Cheddar Reservoir 2 is thought to be likely to be built from the A371 near the former yogurt factory, while further along the bypass nearby a planning proposal has been lodged with Somerset Council for a Gypsy and traveller site off the bypass on the Mendip side of the A371. This has been opposed by Axbridge Town Council and has met with much comment since it would be within the Area of Outstanding Beauty. Meanwhile in the town, building continues off Houlgate Way in the Lavender Fields development with a newly built playground plus several detached houses under construction at the Townsend side of the estate.

Axbridge News: Harry Mottram

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Axbridge Diary of Events

Some Axbridge dates coming up. Send Axbridge events to me and I’ll try to keep the list updated. Email: harryfmottram@gmail.com I’ll also post on my website at www.harrymottram.co.uk

Visit: https://www.harrymottram.co.uk/diary/

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Axbridge News: Oak House reopens; Tree dedicated to plane crash victims; Mayor of Axbridge news; The Space in Cheddar; Development News; Watersports at the Res; Crime and an ex-town councillor’s rock gig

Byharrymottram

May 9, 2026

By Harry Mottram: The Oak House has reopened on Axbridge Square with Ray Sparks as the landlord and a new menu for those needing a bite to eat. It’s been over four months since the hostelry closed so for those in need of a tipple it is good news. The menu includes breakfast so there’s a choice of food in the Square for early eaters.

Remembering the victims of Hochwald

A service of dedication in the churchyard for a tree and bench in memory of those lost in the Hochwald disaster was held on 11 April 2026, with the planting of a tree. For those new to the town the aircraft crash in 1973 in Switzerland was carrying mostly women on a shopping trip from Bristol Airport to Basle with many from Axbridge amongst the victims.

The doomed flight had members of Axbridge Ladies Guild, Cheddar Mums’ Night Out group, skittles players from Wrington and Congresbury, plus friends and relatives. Of 139 people on the Invicta International Airlines Flight 435 (IM435) from Bristol Lulsgate to Basel-Mulhouse, 108 died. Several of the victims are buried in the church grounds in Axbridge. Somerset’s communities were devastated after scores of men lost their wives and more than 40 children lost their mothers in the tragedy that shocked the nation.

This is a report on a memorial service held in 2023: https://www.harrymottram.co.uk/journalist/axbridge/axbridge-features/basle-air-disaster/

Mayor Making

On Monday 11^th May in the town hall at 8pm the town council will elect a new mayor. The current mayor Pauline Ham (pictured) is likely to be succeeded by Richard Willis who is currently deputy. Other civic posts in the council will also be confirmed or voted on including the new deputy mayor, the Sergeant of Mace, Town Bailiff , Town Crier and the Keeper of Bells. The evening is known as Mayor Making and always takes place in May and marks the beginning of the new municipal year and the new council year as a new civic leader is installed.

The town councillors are all volunteers who work as a committee for the good of the town with powers over the cemeteries, allotments and open spaces as well as areas like the changing rooms, playground and to a certain extent highways and planning – although most major decisions are made by Somerset Council. Everyone in the town is welcome to the Mayor Making which also includes the Annual Council Meeting when a number of reports are given – and if you are interested in the town it’s a chance to learn about our ancient settlement.

More info from the clerk: Mrs V L Brice Axbridge Town Council Email:town.clerk@axbridge-tc.gov.uk The Council Office Website: www.axbridge-tc.gov.uk

The Space needs volunteers

The Space is a children and young people’s mental health charity based in Cheddar. They are holding a Volunteer Evening on Monday 18th May 7 PM – 9 PM at The Hub, 1-2 Lower North Street, Cheddar BS27 3HA and are hoping to recruit volunteers to support their fundraising, help with the community garden, and the Youth Club/Youth Café, and to create a new volunteering group. They are also looking to welcome new Trustees, including a new Chair of Trustees to replace John Pimblott, who will be stepping down later this year after many years of dedicated service. There is more on The Space at https://thespacesomerset.org.uk/about-us/
You can find the event details and booking link here: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/volunteer-evening-tickets-1988994922355

Development News – Cheddar Res 2

The documentary on BBC this spring about building Hinkley Point 2 Nuclear Power Station showed how a massive infrastructure project can transform a region. Well, we have potentially a project as large in the plans to build a second reservoir next to the current one constructed in the 1930s. Planning permission is set to go in this or next year after more consultations which if agreed will see a large area set aside for the new reservoir. Preliminary work is underway along with surveys which you may have noticed around Sharpham Road playing fields. There have been updates from West Country Water and Environment (WCWE) who are behind the project although you may have noticed a post on social media from Conservative politician and farmer in Devon James Wright about his concerns about the pipeline that will connect Cheddar Res 2 to Tiverton. He is in favour of the project but is worried about the disruption the construction of the pipeline will cause to farms and businesses.

Development News – Council Houses

Somerset Council has said it plans to build 580 new council homes in the next six years. Under the Conservative administration of the 1980s many council houses were sold to those who rented them while others were handed over to new housing authorities with the ones in Axbridge held by Homes for Sedegemoor and Knightstone. The main areas for the new council houses and homes will be clustered around Taunton, Bridgwater and the M5 corridor. None as far as Axbridge News understands are planned for this town. While on the subject of rented local authority homes the new Renting Rights Act is now in force. It is an end to ‘no fault’ evictions, a tightening of regulations to end ‘dodgy landlords’ who don’t maintain basic standards for their rented homes, and rents can only be increased one a year. Further guidance at https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/69bc04b8f7b1c24d8e23ce60/The_Renters__Rights_Act_Information_Sheet_2026.pdf

Development News – New homes locally

A plan to build a home at the bottom of Moorland Street caused considerable comment when it was first proposed due to fears of it blocking views of homes in Bailiffs Close and worries about it being on a flood plain. The proposals eventually were passed, and the construction is well underway – while a home further along on the Furlong side of Portmead Drove is all but complete – both homes live several others there are also on the flood plain. A new plan to construct a building further along Portmeade drove on the right side has been put forward. A simple search on the Somerset Planning Portal can see the details but there is a question over the access road which is badly damaged. Anyone who has walked or driven along the drove will know it is badly pitted.

New news from Strongvox of Taunton yet who are set to request planning permission for the construction of 43 homes in the field at the end of Orchard Way in the town. It’s not an idea that’s gone down well since the cul-de-sac would see upwards of 43 cars using the road which already congested for parking. While building continues off Houlgate Way in the Lavender Fields development as the project continues – now with a newly built playground. It is fenced off to allow the grass to grow but is a welcome addition to the town’s amenities – as well is the car park opposite the surgery.

One of the larger homes in the process of completion in the development is on the market for £800,000 while this is small beer if you are interested in the Old Court House in St Mary’s Street. That home is on the market for £2,395,000, while a two bed flat off West Street is £155,00.

Development News – Lidl, the former yogurt factory and Bristol Airport

Everywhere I have worked in the West Country one of the perennial news stories has been development. New homes, roads and redevelopments of old brown field sites. Close to Axbridge Lidl wish to build a supermarket on Upper New Road near the filling station and Cheddar’s allotments, while the former yogurt factory on the A371 is to be converted to housing and other buildings and of course the new reservoir will include a large water treatment plant and access road on the Axbridge side of the reservoir. Up the road at Lulsgate, Bristol Airport wish to expand – work is underway – but they want a longer run way so the landing lights are expected to be moved to Lulsgate Common – meaning less space for those who enjoy the green space. And I’ve not mentioned in Weston-super-Mare there are plans for a huge arena for the old Tropicana site plus the ongoing restoration of Birnbeck Pier – long overdue. North Somerset Council have released videos of the work online.

Watersports at Cheddar

Paddle boarding was introduced at Cheddar Reservoir in 2017 as a result of the partnership with local ecologists, Natural England and Cheddar Watersports Club in 2016. Paddle boarding is available to members and guests of the local community group. The club is an evolution of Bristol Corinthian Yacht Club. While still being a protected conservation site for wildlife, the specifics of Cheddar’s designated conservation status make it a much more suitable site for managed paddle boarding, kayaking and canoeing than Chew Valley and Blagdon Lakes say Bristol Water. To join the club as a family member is £325 although you can be a social member for £80 a year – handy if you want to pop in to use the toilet.

Crime

There was an attempted break-in into a garage overnight on West Street last week. A garage door was forced showing how brazen thieves can be at the dead of night. The local police give this advice: “Most burglaries are committed by opportunist thieves. In around one in four burglaries committed, they do not have to use force; they often break in through an open door or window. Take simple precautions, such as locking windows and doors when you go out, even if just stepping next door or out in the garden. Also, use a light timer and do not leave your keys lying around.”

Sidetracks

Next Sunday the Sidetracks Band are playing at The Railway Inn in Meare – and included in the line-up is Axbridge vocalist Jo Hogg of Cheddar Road. Jo has been a member of the town council in the past but is best known for her rock chic voice as part of the band who specialist in the Californian West Coast sounds of the 60s and 70s. The gig is on Sunday 10^th May.

And back stories on Axbridge at https://www.harrymottram.co.uk/journalist/axbridge/axbridge-news/

Axbridge News: Harry Mottram

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Axbridge Diary of Events

Some Axbridge dates coming up. Send Axbridge events to me and I’ll try to keep the list updated. Email: harryfmottram@gmail.com I’ll also post on my website at www.harrymottram.co.uk

Visit: https://www.harrymottram.co.uk/diary/

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Axbridge News: New Mayor of Axbridge to be announced; Oak House to reopen: Gypsy site proposals prompt petition, and part of Axbridge’s Railway Station is returned

Byharrymottram

May 4, 2026

By Harry Mottram: On Monday 11^th May in the town hall at 8pm the town council will elect a new mayor. The current mayor Pauline Ham (pictured) is likely to be succeeded by Richard Willis who is currently deputy. Other civic posts in the council will also be confirmed or voted on including the new deputy mayor, the Sergeant of Mace, Town Bailiff , Town Crier and the Keeper of Bells. The evening is known as Mayor Making and always takes place in May and marks the beginning of the new municipal year and the new council year as a new civic leader is installed.

More info from the clerk: Mrs V L Brice Axbridge Town Council Email:town.clerk@axbridge-tc.gov.uk The Council Office Website: www.axbridge-tc.gov.uk

*The new look interior to the Oak House*

The Oak House Hotel

On Friday May 8^th at noon the Oak House Hotel will reopen on the Square with Ray Sparks as landlord and the Valiant Pub Company as owners. It’s good news for residents who will have a choice of establishments to enjoy a tipple and competition for the Lamb Inn across the road – and don’t forget the pubs in Cross down the lane where there is also the Cross Brewery in the White Hart.

In a cheery social media post Ray Sparks wrote: “Hi everyone! I’ve been proud to call Axbridge home for the past 8 years, having moved here for family—and it’s truly become a place close to my heart. With 38 years in hospitality and a background as a qualified chef, I’ve had the privilege of running award-winning real ale pubs. Now, my focus is firmly here in Axbridge. Many of you may already know me through my role as a Town Councillor or from volunteering as a steward in the Museum. I also support various community groups in Axbridge. My aim is simple: to make The Oak House the heart of the community—a place where everyone feels welcome, can come together, and enjoy great company. I’m always here to support the town in any way I can, so please do pop in, say hello, and make yourself at home.”

We wish Ray and all the staff and customers or the Oak House all the best as it will make a valuable addition to the town’s social life.

For more on the Oak House see their social media site at https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61574301893240#

Gypsy and Traveller site plans

As previously reported there is a planning proposal lodged with Somerset Council for a Gypsy and traveller site off the bypass on the Mendip side of the A371. Graham Godwin-Pearson who is an admin for the ‘LOVE Cheddar, Axbridge and Shipham’ Facebook site has mounted a petition to oppose the plans with a link to the campaign at https://www.cheddarvalleymatters.org.uk/campaigns/no-traveller-camp-behind-axbridge

Axbridge Town Council have already listed a number of reasons why the plans should not go ahead which included concerns of traffic and road safety as well as the site being with in the Mendip Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and by a Site of Special Scientific Interest.

Before the petition was posted there had been considerable amounts of comments online opposing the plans from the public. Graham Godwin-Pearson writes, “This is the wrong location for any development of any kind. The hills to the north of Axbridge are extremely special and need to be protected – hence they are part of the AONB.”

However not everyone is opposed with some pointing out the inherent prejudice there is against the gypsy and traveller communities and voicing the problems of a shortage of affordable housing in the area. One resident gave this sage advice online: “From experience of working in planning, petitions are fine, but if people are really concerned about something they need to take time and write an objection as part of the planning process (it holds more weight).”

In a statement the town council addressed their concerns over the PLANNING APPLICATION NO. 02/25/00030 CHANGE OF USE OF LAND as listed on the Somerset Council’s planning portal.

The town clerk Vicky Brice put into words the thoughts of the council’s planning committee. She wrote: “Axbridge Town Council strongly objects to this application on the following planning grounds:- Compliance with national, regional and local planning policy and guidance; Effect on the landscape and the Impact upon the character and appearance of the area The site is outside of the settlement boundary within the Mendip Hills National Landscape adjoining the Axbridge Hill and Fry’s Hill Designated Site of Scientific Interest.”

Railings mystery solved

A piece of the old Axbridge Railway Station has been found and will be reunited with the former station yard now under the governance of the Mens’ Shed. Musical impresario, gardener and litter picker Barry Walsh came across a length of iron railings in a garden in the town which the owner wished to be removed. It appears they are the missing section in the station yard and must have gone ‘walkabout’ when the station was closed in the Beeching cuts of the 1960s. Unlike Winscombe, Axbridge’s station building remains largely intact and has been used as a youth club in the past. Will the station ever be reopened – unlikely since the various bridges linking the town to Yatton in one direction and to Wells in the other have been dismantled. Plus of course the line is mainly laid out as a footpath and cycle path as The Strawberry Line. But at least the station will be little more complete thanks to Barry Walsh and The Mens’ Shed.

And https://www.harrymottram.co.uk/journalist/axbridge/axbridge-news/

Axbridge News: Harry Mottram

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Axbridge Diary of Events

Some Axbridge dates coming up. Send Axbridge events to me and I’ll try to keep the list updated. Email: harryfmottram@gmail.com I’ll also post on my website at www.harrymottram.co.uk

Visit: https://www.harrymottram.co.uk/diary/

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Axbridge News: Town Council’s grants; Huntsman convicted; the late DJ Andy Kershaw and a link to our MP; Cheddar Res 2 meeting; Lidl plans; and junior football success for the town

Byharrymottram

Apr 25, 2026

By Harry Mottram: Here is a quick round up of some of the stories associated with the town – and I have included some notes for new residents on the Lidl and Cheddar Reservoir 2 developments.

Axbridge Town Council Grants

The town’s council at a meeting in March have earmarked grants to two local groups. Axe Vale Arts has been paid £5,000 while Axbridge Blackberry Carnival will receive £800 to help stage the annual event in September. Axe Vale Arts is the new name for the former Methodist Chapel in West Street and has been run by volunteers for the last 12 months – and their steering committee hopes to be able to either take a long term lease from the church authorities or to buy the building. They have run a number of events there – details on their website and on the Axbridge diary at https://www.harrymottram.co.uk/diary/

The carnival is a free community event that takes place at the same time as the fun fair in the Square and attracts thousands of visitors to the town. The procession is in the afternoon of the Saturday – while the fun fair is on from Thursday and all packed up by Sunday. See https://www.facebook.com/AxbridgeBlackberryCarnival/

Boxing Day Hunt

The Government have pledged to outlaw fox hunting during the current parliament following widespread abuses by hunt groups who are supposed to only use trails and not allow their dogs or hounds to be out of control. The latest court case against the practice involves a member of the Weston and Banwell Hunt who traditionally meet in Axbridge on Boxing Day. In recent years opposition to the group has grown and it has become a hot topic with demonstrations against the hunt. The police reported: “A 48-year-old man has been fined for hunting a wild animal with dogs. Wayne Gregory, of Huish Champflower, pleaded guilty under the Hunting Act 2004 during a hearing at Taunton Magistrates’ Court today (Monday 20 April). The result comes after a six-month-long police investigation into an incident in which dogs were not called off from hunting a fox during a Vale of Taunton and Banwell Harriers hunt event in November last year. Gregory was fined £250 and was ordered to pay £185 in costs. Two men charged alongside Gregory – Ross Cordery, aged 45 from Highbridge, and James Parish, aged 31 from Uffcume – have since had their cases discontinued.”

MP Tessa Munt and DJ Andy Kershaw

For many of us of a certain age it was a great sadness to hear that former Radio One DJ and reporter Andy Kershaw had died this spring. He was one of a generation of BBC DJs who helped to shape the music tastes of the Baby Boomers and those who followed in the 1990s and 2000s. The only reason I mention the late DJ is the strange link to our MP Tessa Munt. She was pals with Andy and helped him out when he needed an address to be included on the electoral register some 20 years or so ago. Tessa had ousted the Tory MP David Heathcote Emery in the 2010 election after he came undone over the expenses scandal by claiming tax payers cash for his garden. But his supporters in the Daily Mail were keen to take revenge against Lib Dem Mrs Munt for ending a long line of Conservative representatives for this area. Their claim was she was sharing her home with Andy Kershaw while claiming the local council discount for living alone – which after a Sedgemoor District Council enquiry turned out to be false. Mr Kershaw was living in the Isle of Man but wanted to register to vote which he did at his pal’s home in Somerset which is entirely legal. She said at the time she hadn’t seen him in years and he didn’t live with her. The non-story may have damaged her at the time but it was the national swing to David Camerson’s Conservative revival in 2015 and his austerity plans which did. Tessa lost to James Heappey of the Conservatives at the next election but eventually returned to the House of Commons in 2024 winning back the seat for the Lib Dems. As I said, it was a strange link and a non-story with our current MP to the late DJ and World Music advocate Andy Kershaw who has died. But life can be strange at times – especially in politics.

Cheddar Reservoir 2

Those new to the town may not have been aware of two of the biggest stories to hit the area in years. The umbrella group for water utilities in this region the West Country Water and Environment are behind plans to build a new reservoir to the south of the current one next to Axbridge. Cheddar Res 2 is set to see work commence next year or in 2028 with the operation completed around 2030 or so. In Taunton last week there was a talk on the project by water and reservoir experts, Julian Welbank and Martin Wood to explain to engineers why the reservoir was being constructed and to give the context of water resilience. The project includes a new water treatment centre at Axbridge, a new road for construction traffic, a pipe line to Devon and the reservoir itself – about the same size as the one built in the 1930s and one of the favourite places for a walk by locals.

Lidl

The other major project are the plans for a new supermarket on Upper New Road in Cheddar – close to Axbridge. The new grocery store is yet to get planning consent and is unlikely if given the green light to be ready to open this year – but you never know. The site is near to the allotments and the so-called Magic Roundabout and petrol station at the top of the road (the MFG Service Station and shop) where there is an intersection with the A371 Shute Shelve to Wells Road, Shipham Hill Road, and Axbridge Road – the one to Tweentown. It all adds up to more congestion on what can be a highly congested road at the rush hour as Bristol Water have indicated construction traffic for the new reservoir will also be using the A371. The utility firm plan on a new road down to the current reservoir from near the former yogurt factory now being redeveloped for housing – close to Cheddar Woods resort – meaning rather a lot of road works are set to take place along the road that links Axbridge to Cheddar.

Football

And finally some brilliant news about the next generation of young Axbridge lads. This is a report on Facebook from Andy Corp of the achievements of the Axbridge Saxon Junior Football Club this season: “Emotional post alert! 11 years ago Leon Denz Parsons talked Mark Beardsley and me into starting a junior team for Axbridge Saxon Junior Football Club – I think Leon’s words were “do it for a season and see how it goes”. Today that team won the league with 2 games to spare. The boys have team spirit and will to win in buckets. I’d love to say nothing makes me prouder than seeing the boys doing litter picking in Axbridge or selling poppies on Remembrance Day, but after seasons of finishing bottom (table and red cards), painting lines, digging balls out of brambles, hundreds of parent driving miles – winning the league feels pretty good The eleven year plan paid off. Massive respect to Tim Jeacock, Arkadiusz Wilkutowski, Lofty, Neil, Craig and Andrew Hulbert for coaching through freezing rain and failing floodlights. The parents who have been there all the way. But above all praise to Cath Frith and Lucy Heard who kept the team going when the easiest thing was to call it quits. Teamwork makes the dream work. Go Saxons. Axbridge – look out for the open top bus tour trophy parade.”

The Axbridge Saxons were founded in the late 1990s with a fund raising match on the Furlong between the Mayor’s XI and the PTA dads of the school. Since then Axbridge has created several teams including ones for girls, juniors, veterans and Axbridge United FC – the senior team.

For more news see https://www.harrymottram.co.uk/2026/04/24/axbridge-news-town-council-opposes-gypsy-and-traveller-site-plan-bristol-airport-expands-and-the-oak-house-is-set-to-reopen/

Axbridge News: Harry Mottram

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Axbridge Diary of Events

Some Axbridge dates coming up. Send Axbridge events to me and I’ll try to keep the list updated. Email: harryfmottram@gmail.com I’ll also post on my website at www.harrymottram.co.uk

Visit: https://www.harrymottram.co.uk/diary/

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Axbridge News: Town Council opposes ‘Gypsy and Traveller site plan’; Bristol Airport expands; and the Oak House is set to reopen

Byharrymottram

Apr 24, 2026

By Harry Mottram: Following a public meeting in Axbridge Town Hall on Monday 30^th March the Town Council have issued their objections to a plan for a Gypsy and Traveller site off the bypass. In a statement the town council addressed their concerns over the PLANNING APPLICATION NO. 02/25/00030 CHANGE OF USE OF LAND as listed on the Somerset Council’s planning portal.

The plans for the development are within the ANOB – Area of Natural Outstanding Beauty – of the Mendips adjoining the Axbridge Hill and Fry’s Hill Designated Site of Scientific Interest – which means development of this type goes against the rules surrounding the sites. The council said of the site that it is: “… a nationally important botanical site, for both vascular and non-vascular plants. It also contains a roosting site for two nationally rare species of bat and a wide range of butterfly species. These key features, including the wildlife habitat, would be threatened by inappropriate use of the adjoining field. The Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 provides protection for animals, plants, and habitats. In term of the impact upon the character and appearance of the area, the fields along this stretch of road are agricultural, with a view of the beautiful slope of the Mendip Hills. Any residential development and associated amenities (car parking etc) would detrimentally impact upon the character and appearance of the area.”

The council reminded the applicants that other proposals for developments on the Mendip Hills side of the A371 had been rejected by planners on a number of grounds including concerns over traffic and road safety. More objections included refuse and recycling collections, parking, a loss of agricultural land and a reference to a lack of school places. In conclusion the town council said: “Development on this site which is outside of the settlement boundary, in a protected National Landscape, adjoining the SSSI and situated on the A371 should be refused. At the public meeting to discuss this planning application (which was attended by many residents) we undertook to request that this application is referred to committee if not dismissed by officers.”

Online there have been a number of objections from residents who sometimes voice ideas not covered by the council. Applications for gypsy and traveller sites are rarely popular amongst residents for a range of reasons from concerns over house prices and social objections to people being able to move into an area without having to pay for the construction of conventional homes. Others point out the fact there is a shortage of affordable housing in the area and there is an unfair social prejudice against those who live on such sites. Now it is up to the planners to decide what will happen.

Bristol Airport

Anyone who has been to the airport recently will have noticed the amount of development taking place at Lulsgate with new carparks, roads and a hotel amongst new builds. The airport has put in more plans to further expand the airport to increase passenger numbers from 12 to 15 million per year with 4,974 night flights between 11.30pm and 6.00am, alongside runway and site boundary extensions and related development. Generally, the noise doesn’t affect Axbridge while many work at the airport or supply the businesses on site – but there is a wider issue over air travel and its pollution for some people and for more development in a rural area. To see the plans visit: https://planning.n-somerset.gov.uk/online-applications/applicationDetails.do?keyVal=TCIP27LP01600&activeTab=summary

The Oak House

The pub, restaurant and hotel on Axbridge Square is to reopen on Friday May the 8^th at noon following refurbishment by the new owners the Valiant Pub Company of The Oak House. And the new landlord is a familiar figure in the town: Ray Sparks. In a cheery social media post he wrote: “Hi everyone! I’ve been proud to call Axbridge home for the past 8 years, having moved here for family—and it’s truly become a place close to my heart. With 38 years in hospitality and a background as a qualified chef, I’ve had the privilege of running award-winning real ale pubs. Now, my focus is firmly here in Axbridge. Many of you may already know me through my role as a Town Councillor or from volunteering as a steward in the Museum. I also support various community groups in Axbridge. My aim is simple: to make The Oak House the heart of the community—a place where everyone feels welcome, can come together, and enjoy great company. I’m always here to support the town in any way I can, so please do pop in, say hello, and make yourself at home.”

Ray has had numerous messages of congratulations from residents already. The pub has also offered a competition to win bubbly wine advertised on the Axbridge Community FaceBook site.

So a new chapter in the town’s hospitality sector following the closure of the pub last Christmas – and it must be said competition for the Lamb Inn.

Axbridge News: Harry Mottram

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Axbridge Diary of Events

Some Axbridge dates coming up. Send Axbridge events to me and I’ll try to keep the list updated. Email: harryfmottram@gmail.com I’ll also post on my website at www.harrymottram.co.uk

Visit: https://www.harrymottram.co.uk/diary/

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Axbridge News: The Oak House, application for a Gypsy site, Cheddar Reservoir 2, King John’s Hunting Lodge, revealing buildings in the town, and what’s on in the Axbridge Diary

Byharrymottram

Apr 5, 2026

By Harry Mottram: The builders are in at the Oak House on the Square as the new owners make material changes inside the pub come restaurant come hotel. Residents who enjoy a drink or a meal out are keen to see the hostelry reopen following its closure last December when managers Dave and Marina left after two years behind the bar. It has been widely reported that the hostelry was put up for sale with a buyer found in the Valiant Pub Company who have stated they plan to reopen it soon and have even posted on the Axbridge Community FaceBook site an offer for potential customers to win a bar tab of £50.

Based in Birmingham the Valiant Pub Company was founded by experienced hospitality professionals Gerry Carroll and Mark McGinty in 2021 and now has scores of pubs across England and Wales. Patrons of Axbridge’s inns will be pleased to see the tavern on the corner of the Square back in business as on a sunny evening it is a popular place for a glass or two of a favourite beverage.

Gypsy & Traveller site

A public meeting was held in the town hall on Monday March 30th, 2026, to discuss the planning application for a ‘Change of use of land to Gypsy & Traveller site’ off the A371 near St Michael’s. The application has attracted considerable interest online and residents can leave comments on the Somerset Council’s Planning Portal at https://sdc.somerset.gov.uk/planning_online
Somerset Council give this explanation of terms relating to gypsies and travellers – a subject that provokes a certain amount of comments: “A number of different groups are covered by the generic term Gypsy, Roma and Traveller: English and Welsh Gypsies, Irish and Scottish Travellers, showmen (fairground people) and circus people, bargees (occupational boat dwellers) and New Travellers. Most of these communities have a long tradition of a travelling lifestyle, although their history and customs vary.”

*Looking south from the Reservoir today where the new one will be built*

Cheddar Reservoir 2

The works undertaken at the the Sharpham Road side of the reservoir have appeared to have been completed – for a time it led to the closure of the path around the Reservoir on the Cheddar side. Under the Water Industry Act 1991 Bristol Water carried out excavations under their Emergency Draw Down Project to expose an existing pipe running along land next to Sharpham Road and the access road to the car park. Part of the rugby ground and other areas along the road were excavated. Axbridge News understands the work is related to preparations ahead of work to construct Cheddar Reservoir 2. A second consultation is set to take place this year before planning proposals are finalised. For those new to this information Bristol Water plan to build a second similar sized reservoir on the Wedmore side of the current one.

*A photo from the 1930s showing the pipe that linked the reservoir to the source at Cheddar*

A new access road from the A371 is expected to be constructed along with a new filtration station next to the one by the existing one on the Axbridge side. A road is also expected to be constructed alongside the Portmeade Drove to an area of several fields which will be part of the construction site. No date has yet been given for the start of the planning process which will include work to the site by the reservoir along with land all the way to Devon for a pipeline to connect with South West Water’s systems. The original reservoir was built just before WW2. The new one will arguably become one of the largest construction sites in England.

King John’s Hunting Lodge

The town’s museum reopened for the new season on Saturday 4 April during the Farmers’ Market with an Official opening marked by the Mayor Pauline Ham. And adding some Royal glamour were the new Carnival Queen and her entourage to give the occasion some style. The museum is also the HQ of the town’s local history society with the opening hours of 1pm until 4pm every day. On the first Saturday of the month, to coincide with the Axbridge Farmers’ Market, the museum is open from 10am. If you have never been inside then you are missing so much – a huge collection of items, pictures and artifacts including the remains of one of the town’s pre-Saxon residents. But the real star is the building itself – a timber framed Tudor shop and home with the wonkiest staircase beloved by children and super views of the Square from the tiny windows.

The museum is run by volunteers but is owned by the National Trust in an unusual partnership stating: “It is entirely dependent on volunteer support. We have a friendly and welcoming team and welcome new faces to join us in meeting and greeting visitors. For more details please drop us a line at: kingjohnshuntinglodgemuseum@gmail.com“

For more on the museum and its history and collection visit https://kingjohnshuntinglodge.co.uk/

The Big Reveal

Axbridge News couldn’t resist taking a photo of a home in Jubilee Road where the outing cladding has been stripped off by the new owners. Several properties in the town have had their outer layers removed to reveal the original frontage which gives a more authentic look to the building. In the 1970s pebble dash was a popular way to clad the front of homes and there have been others including timber, pvc and fibre cements finishes amongst others – of which a builder is more qualified to expand on than me. The reasons include improved weather proofing and insulation – but also it has to be said fashion.

When the old plaster layers were removed from the front of King John’s Hunting Lodge what was revealed was a far more interesting and authentic building. I will leave the merits of such work for the experts to discuss but visually the effects are easy on the eye.

Axbridge News: Harry Mottram

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Axbridge News: Cheddar Reservoir; JB Priestley revisited; Cross talk on the new reservoir and its effects on the environment; Axe Vale Arts Centre’s latest event; plus the Axbridge diary

Mar 23, 2026

By Harry Mottram: Visitors to Cheddar Reservoir during the last few days will have noticed works taking place at the Sharpham Road side of the man-made lake. Under the Water Industry Act 1991 Bristol Water carried out excavations under their Emergency Draw Down Project to expose an existing pipe running along land next to Sharpham Road and the access road to the car park. At one time the path around the reservoir was closed at the entrance from the car park to the public while part of the rugby ground and other areas along the road were also excavated. Axbridge News understands the work is related to preparations ahead of work to construct Cheddar Reservoir 2. A second consultation is set to take place this year before planning proposals are finalised.

In presentations last year South West Water who own Bristol Water outlined what they called the ‘zone of operation’ that included several fields to the south and west of the reservoir earmarked for activities along with much of the Sharpham Road area including the playing fields – and the Strawberry Line linking Axbridge to Cheddar. More details on the proposed reservoir and its long pipeline to Devon are on the website of WCWE England and Wales, West Country Water and Environment (formerly known as West Country Water Resources) at https://www.westcountrywaterandenvironment.org/flagship-projects/cheddar-reservoir-sro/about-the-cheddar-2-sro-project

WCWE were tasked by the government under the National Framework for Water Resources to create a regional water resources plan that looks ahead to 2050 and beyond. The Pennon Group in Exeter own South West Water. Work is expected to begin in 2028 with a completion date of 2030 or later.

Cross talk on Cheddar Reservoir 2

This Wednesday there is a talk by Axevale Climate Action on theenvironmental aspects of the proposed Cheddar 2 Reservoir.Join Helen Gavin, the Environment Lead, is to talk on the environmental aspects of the Cheddar 2 Reservoir project. The action group said they are looking forward to ‘understanding what will be proposed to support wildlife and biodiversity through the project.’

The meeting is open to all and is on Wed 25th March in Cross Memorial Hall at 7pm. Refreshments available for a donation to cover costs. I would attend but have a ticket for the play in Axbridge that night.

See: https://www.facebook.com/events/886891620987819?acontext=%7B%22event_action_history%22%3A[%7B%22surface%22%3A%22home%22%7D%2C%7B%22mechanism%22%3A%22attachment%22%2C%22surface%22%3A%22newsfeed%22%7D]%2C%22ref_notif_type%22%3Anull%7D

JB Priestley revisited

Axbridge Community Theatre are staging JB Priestley’s play I Have Been Here Before in the town hall this week with a run from Wednesday 25th to Saturday 28th March 2026, nightly at 7.30pm with a further run in Bristol at the Alma Tavern for two nights next week. Directed by John Bailey the cast includes some familiar faces from the town. Liz Browne and Chris Jarman play the unhappy couple of Janet and Walter Ormund, while Tony Wilson plays the mysterious Dr Gortler – a German refugee – who seems to know more than he’s letting on. Jude Wilson plays schoolteacher Oliver Farrant, while the proprietors of the Black Bull Inn where the action takes place are Sally Pratt and Sam Shipley who are played respectively by Sian Tutill and Phil Saunders.

Written in 1937 the drama is one of Priestley’s ‘Time Plays’ which have an element of déjà vu in which a character appears to be able to look back into the past. No spoilers though. John Boynton Priestley or JB Priestley as he mainly known was a highly successful novelist, playwright, screenwriter and broadcaster. In his time in the 1930s and during the war he was one of the most famous men in England. Famed for his wartime radio broadcast, the author of The Good Companions and his play An Inspector Calls. ACT have previously staged Time and the Conways – another of his ‘Time Plays’.Tickets on sale online at: Axbridge Community Theatre event tickets from TicketSource. – and in the Post Office

Photos of the dress rehearsal by Adam Clutterbuck.

Axe Vale Arts Centre

This week the former Methodist Chapel and now The Axe Vale Arts Centre features an exhibition of work by local artists Ros and David Cuthbert in the Undercroft Gallery in West Street. There’s a private view on Friday night and the show is open on Saturday and Sunday – see the poster for details. There are plenty more events on at the centre in April and May – for details see the Facebook site at https://www.facebook.com/groups/393368381558682/user/61577360096860

Axbridge Diary

I try to keep this diary of what’s on in the town up to date – so do send in your events to me as it gets thousands of reads a month – I’ve moved it to a new spot on my website. See https://www.harrymottram.co.uk/journalist/axbridge/diary/

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Axbridge News: update on the Oakhouse as a ‘new chapter now begins’

Mar 23, 2026

By Harry Mottram: Since Christmas the Oakhouse on Axbridge Square has been empty following the departure of Dave and Marina who ran the pub for two years. It has been widely reported that the hostelry was put up for sale with a buyer found in the Valiant Pub Company who plan to reopen it later this year once they have found a landlord to take on its running. Steve and Julia Jenkins owned the pub but have now relinquished it to the Valiant Pub Company for an undisclosed sum.

Writing on social media Steve penned: “A Heartfelt Message About The Oakhouse. After 18 years, Julia and I have helped The Oakhouse Hotel to be sold on to the Valiant Pub Company, who specialise in community pubs and have committed to a significant investment in the building. Knowing the “The Oak” will continue to be cared for means a great deal to us.

“When we bought the Oakhouse in 2008, it was a beautiful listed building in real need of regeneration. Being its custodians has been a privilege. It may not have been the best financial investment we’ve ever made — but it has certainly been one of the most meaningful. The memories, friendships and shared moments it has brought into our lives are truly priceless. To everyone who has supported The Oak over the years, management, team members, customers, “you know who you are” – thank you. Your kindness, loyalty and good humour have shaped our experience more than anything else.

“A special thank you to Dave and Marina for guiding the Oakhouse through the last couple of challenging years. We’re grateful for everything they’ve done and wish them every success with what comes next. A new chapter now begins for the Oakhouse — and we look forward to enjoying it with you. See you there.”

The Valiant Pub Company have advertised for a ‘pub operator’ to take on the establishment this year. They have described it as ‘a charming 11th-century pub in the heart of Axbridge, Somerset, complete with historic features, a dog-friendly beer garden, strong regular trade, and six cozy hotel rooms.’

They go on to give this glowing portrait for the potential pub operator: “With a full refurbishment planned for early 2026, we’re seeking a hands-on operator experienced in busy community pubs, confident in kitchen management, and passionate about local events and creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Hotel room experience is a bonus.”

There’s no mention of it reverting to a hotel in the advert but add there is a two bedroom accommodation and the ingoing costs are £5,000 with the majority of operating costs covered. In the past the hotel included up to 10 bedrooms – although Axbridge News understands some modernisation would be required to bring them up to modern standards.

Historians may baulk at the notion of it being an 11th century pub since only some of the internal Medieval stonework exists – a stone well and a large inglenook fire – as it was largely rebuilt over successive centuries with the look of a Georgian coaching house today. Old photos show it as part of two houses which have been at various times a hardware store and even a petrol station. Valiant are spelling it in two words as the Oak House while in recent times it has been spelt as one word: Oakhouse – even though the signage outside is two words – you can tell I am an editor!

Based in Birmingham the Valiant Pub Company was founded by experience hospitality professionals Gerry Carroll and Mark McGinty in 2021 and now has scores of pubs across England and Wales. They state on their website: “We are passionate about pubs and people and we thrive on taking unloved pubs and
restoring them to become the beating heart of the community. Each of our pubs are created as a home from home, whose door is open to one and all.”

This is obviously good news for locals who have seen The Lion close in the 1990s and more recently the end of The Crown as a pub – and it will be competition for The Lamb across the Square.

Axbridge Diary

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Axbridge News: A call to arms to support the carnival at its AGM; Annual Town Assembly; Yeo Valley site; Special Education Needs; Somerset Stitchers; Church Organ; population increase, and the diary of events

Byharrymottram

Mar 8, 2026

By Harry Mottram: Firstly, just a brief note to apologise for the suspension of the news and diary of events in the town recently. It marked something of a hiatus in my life as things got on top of me and the diary and news take a lot of time. After an appeal from Barry Walsh and messages from more than 100 residents to keep it, I changed my mind. So, back to the news:

Axbridge Carnival AGM

On Monday, March 9^th, there is the annual general meeting of the Axbridge Carnival in the Church Rooms at 7.30pm. The September Carnival is a highlight of the year in the town – but it is run entirely by volunteers despite its impressive size and the large crowds who watch the procession. This meeting is a chance to show an interest, find out how to take part or to help behind the scenes or to be a marshal on the day. For newcomers to the town the carnival takes place on a Saturday afternoon in September and unlike the illuminated processions in other Somerset towns is more or a child-friendly, family and community event – with no need for thousands of lightbulbs! For more on the carnival see https://www.facebook.com/AxbridgeBlackberryCarnival and https://www.blackberrycarnival.com/

Town Council Annual Assembly

The annual meeting of the electorate of the town is held in the town hall on Monday 16^th March this year at 8pm and is open to all residents of Axbridge. Under the 1972 Local Government Law all parishes must hold a meeting between 1st March and 1st June each year so the local council can update the town on important matters but also local groups and charities including the police and other organisations can give a report.

The agenda this year is expected to include the presentation of reports from Axbridge Town Council, Somerset Councillors, the Police and the School Governor representatives. Local organisations also have the opportunity to update residents on their activities and some organisations including the Town Council, Town Trust and Parochial Charities present their accounts. All residents of Axbridge are welcome to attend. It is a chance to find out more about the town and the organisations in Axbridge. For more see https://www.axbridge-tc.gov.uk/

Special Education Needs (SEND)

It was back in 1978 with the Warnock Report that Special Educational Needs (SEND) was clearly identified as an aspect of the country’s education system that needed to be tackled. Up until then provision for what was termed ‘education for handicapped children,’ was patchy with some education authorities more proactive in the early years of the 20^th century. Autism was identified the 1940s and over the next 50 years came to be more defined with as it became understood so by the 1960s the first special schools were founded. Since then, the provision of SEND has varied depending on where you live but with an increase in the diagnosis of conditions that include autism, ADHD, dyslexia, dyspraxia, dyscalculia, speech issues, and physical disabilities the number of school places available are too few. Although huge strides had been made in providing education due to the lack of provision for many and too few places of children in special schools the consensus was it was a mess.

The Government have published the long-awaited schools white paper: Every Child Achieving and Thriving which plans to make SEND a universal system providing for all children who need the service. That will be a relief for their parents as in Somerset there are simply not enough places meaning that many families end up with children falling out of education or being educated at home. The Government said they are ‘creating a simple, logical system to meet the needs of all children and young people with SEND.’

The changes will give every child with additional needs a new Individual Support Plan. Billions will be invested in creating thousands of more SEND teachers and spaces in existing schools, nurseries and colleges with the aim of as far as possible integrating SEND in most local schools. The only drawback is although the plans have near universal political support they will take several years to be fully implemented with the cash feeding in from the next academic year.

In Somerset to find SEND provision visit https://www.somerset.gov.uk/children-families-and-education/the-local-offer/find-send-services/ but be warned as managing to get your child a place is not easy as most are oversubscribed. For more on the changes announced by the Government visit https://educationhub.blog.gov.uk/2026/02/schools-white-paper-what-parents-need-to-know-about-changes-to-the-send-system/

Former Yeo Valley site

With the planned Lidl store on Upper New Road, more homes being constructed either side of the road, and the traffic heading to the planned Cheddar Reservoir 2 site, the area around the MFG Cheddar Fuel Station and shop by the traffic intersection (popularly known as the Magic Roundabout) is set to be even more congested in future. As it is the road is often nose to tail from the bypass all the way to the Draycott end of Cheddar in the rush hour. There is likely to be even more congestion when the former Yeo Valley Yogurt site finally sees new homes being built. Cheddar Parish Council noted that Yeo Valley had been identified originally for commercial development and had subsequently been set to be used for housing due in part to a lack of demand for commercial developments. Back in 2018 Yeo Valley Farm and Holt Farms applied for outline planning for 100 new homes, a 60-bed care home, 12 extra care units, five live/work units and a nursery, on the site. However, things didn’t move forward in part due to changes in the economy followed by the Covid 19 Crisis which led to Homes England the Government’s housing and regeneration agency taking on the development in 2023.

Concerns were raised locally that the numbers of new residents on the development would go ahead without added infrastructure – but was agreed in 2020 by Sedgemoor District Council ‘s development committee – now abolished. Now Somerset Council has approved revised proposals for the site put forward by Homes England with work expected to take place this year.

Increased population

The population of Axbridge is now well over 2,000 with the new estate off Cheddar Road at Mendip View and the 53 homes on the Lavender Field development off Houlgate Way which is 80% complete. More than 40 homes are planned for the development by Strongvox of Taunton off Orchard Road who confirmed to Axbridge News the plans are to go ahead this year. Each decade has seen new estates built in the town with Starrs Close, Hippisley Drive and Knightstone amongst others. With the new Bloor estates off Upper New Road in Cheddar together with the plans for the Yeo Valley site the population of the village will be well over 7,000. As each development is agreed it is not only the health care provision and schools that are affected but also the roads as most new homes come with a car and in many cases more than one car. Two centuries ago the population of Axbridge was around half of today’s – although there were fewer homes as most properties housed larger extended families.

Axbridge Heritage Stitchers

Following their textile interpretation of the Axbridge Heritage Trail, which is now installed at the back of the parish church, the Axbridge Heritage Stitchers decided to create a wall hanging of Somerset depicting various well-known scenes.

The driving force behind the project Margaret Cowie spoke about the textile creation following its completion and is now hanging in the Grade II Listed Church Rooms at the top of the Church Steps.

She said: “The Axbridge Heritage Stitchers held a coffee morning in the Church Rooms on market day in the town square on 7th March, so that anyone interested in seeing their work could come and enjoy coffee and cake with them all. The Friends of the Church also had a jewellery stall selling donated vintage and preloved items and the most enjoyable morning raised a total of £294 for the restoration of the organ in their beautiful grade one listed church.

“The Somerset Scenes hanging took over a year to complete and the following stitchers, Margaret Cowie, Sally Batt, Judith Strange, Barbara Wells, Pam Ryan, Lynn Howes and Sue Rushworth all created either one or more panel each, to make the hanging.”

Each of the scenes is an individual work of art using a variety of techniques and making use of different materials including cotton, wool and even buttons to indicate flowers. It pays to look carefully at the hanging to inspect the work to see the intricate details. They convey a kaleidoscope of scenes: air sea rescue, the Wicker Man statue, Glastonbury Tor, Ashton Windmill, Bridgwater Carnival, Burnham-on-Sea’s Lighthouse and even our own Open Gardens event in June.

This year Open Gardens is chalked up for Sat-Sun, 6-7 June, 2026 and the money raised is in aid of the Friends of Axbridge Church who work to restore and enhance the historic building and its interior which includes the organ.

Restoration of the organ in Axbridge Church

The Friends of Axbridge Church as mentioned in the heritage stitchers article raise money to restore and preserve some of ancient features of the church. A reminder the Friends are not part of the religious organisation but focus on the building’s historic and social aspects which attract many visitors each year.

The Friends write on their website: “The Axbridge Church organ was built in 1884 by W G Vowles. Vowles was an English pipe organ maker and refurbisher based in Bristol. He established his own practice in 1856, building and renovating organs across South West England and South Wales. Additional work to the Axbridge organ was carried out by Geo Osmond, Taunton between the wars and there was a major restoration by Percy Daniel & Co in 1971.”

Interestingly, the original Vowles organ remains, while the former organist, Martin Latham, carried out regular maintenance during his 50 year term. Visiting experts have made a number of suggestions to restore the huge musical instrument to its former glory which would include removing different parts of the organ and undertaking extensive cleaning and restoration, at an estimated cost of around £15,000.

The Friends are seeking fundraising support from other Axbridge organisations and grant applications by the Church Council along with events such as coffee mornings and events like the one organised by the Axbridge Heritage Stitchers. To donate: Cheques can be sent by post and made payable to Friends of Axbridge Church. Please use Sort Code: 30-91-84 and Account Number 00871868 for bank transfers and standing orders and pay to the account of Friends of Axbridge Church. See https://www.stjohnthebaptistaxbridge.org.uk/foac.asp

Axbridge Diary

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Axbridge News: concerns over what’s on events; carnival event; plus parking in the Square, Police report, Cheddar Reservoir 2, Axbridge Court and the Axbridge Diary of Events

Feb 26, 2026

By Harry Mottram: There are mounting concerns over the number of events organised in the town after poor ticket sales led to the cancellation of two ticketed social events recently with a third one this week being scratched. The Axbridge Blackberry Carnival fundraiser planned for Sunday March 1^st in the town hall with duo music Brooks Williams and Aaron Catlow (pictured), has been cancelled. One of the reasons could be due to an increase in live music and other events compared to a year or so ago with the opening of the Axe Vale Arts Centre. Plus of course a Sunday evening gig before a school day may have also been a factor as well as the type of music on offer. The Sports and Social, The PTA at the School, the Church, and The Lamb Inn all stage events from time to time as well. It raises the question of how many events during The Cost-of-Living Crisis can a town the size of Axbridge stage which all cover their costs?

Axbridge Carnival – a plea to support the fundraiser on March 1st

This Sunday evening there’s a chance to catch the soaring melodies, heart-tugging and agile rhythms of the musical duo of Brooks Williams and Aaron Catlow – and it’s all in aid of this September’s Axbridge Carnival. The carnival is one of Axbridge’s greatest community events with a dedicated team of residents committed to make it happen – so please do your bit and come along to the town hall for this fundraising concert – or order your ticket online or pick one up from the Post Office. There’s a licenced bar with the doors open from 7.15pm, Sunday, 1st March. Tickets £10 each from Post Office. Or online from https://wegottickets.com/event/684360 And if you would like to take more of an interest then pop along to the AGM on Monday 9^th March in the Church Rooms at 7.30pm. You may have noticed that Barry Walsh has tried very hard to drum up support for this gig – as the carnival is an essential part of Axbridge’s community life – and I make no apology in supporting his efforts and those of the Carnival Committee.

Town Council Reports

The latest minutes of the Town Council are not yet available online but the ones from previous months are and so here are a few highlights. By the way you can look at the minutes, agendas and see what the council does and even join as a councillor – they are all volunteers who do the best for the town. Visit https://www.axbridge-tc.gov.uk/

In a recent one the Police reported that several vehicles in the town did not have current Vehicle Excise Duty (the old tax disc we used to display in our car windscreens) and MOTs (Ministry of Transport tests) and were ‘aware of a car incident in Moorland Street on New Year’s Day.’ On the subject of Vehicle Excise Duty and MOTs it is widely reported that in this country around half a million vehicles don’t have a valid MOT and more than a million vehicles also haven’t paid for the Vehicle Excise Duty – which is easy to do online. If you watch those online Police videos on TikTok and YouTube you will notice that Police highway patrols routinely run computer checks on car number plates to establish if they are being driven without the correct tax and MOT. In the early 1980s I was riding my motorbike in Surrey and was pulled over by the Police as in those days they looked for number plates from out of the area. Suffice it to say I hadn’t a valid tax disc – and had three points placed on my licence. So this piece of Police and motoring news is personal to me!

Electric vehicle charging news

Cllr Pauline Ham updated the meeting of the Town Council on Somerset Council who are ‘investing funds for electric vehicle charging on council owned sites. Members would seek confirmation that this would apply to sites now owned by the Town Council (i.e. following devolution from Somerset Council) and would consider possible site opportunities.’ It is one of the changes in local Government that facilities like car parks and public toilets were shifted from central responsibilities to local parish and town Councils to save money. It was done in the knowledge in part as places like Axbridge Town Council are run by councillors who are not paid – in contrast to the officials from district and county councils. So it does seem fair that the expense of installing electric charging points should be funded at lease in part by the former owners of the car parks since the bulk of our Council Tax goes to County Hall in Taunton. Pauline Ham is a town councillor but also was elected as a Somerset Councillor along with Ben Ferguson in the last local elections as Liberal Democrats.

Orchard Road Development

In a further report at the town council there has been no further news relating to the proposed planning application off Orchard Road – the firm Strongvox of Taunton are behind the plans. Axbridge News can confirm that the proposed housing development is set to request planning permission for the construction of 43 homes in the field this year. After an initial consultation in the form of a questionnaire and the announcement by Bristol Water it would be building a new treatment works nearby along with an access road the plans disappeared from Strongvox’s website. Although the plans have gone, the company confirmed by an email question by me they are to put in for planning consent.

Nursing Home conversion

The architects Angus Meek published plans for the former nursing home off West Street last year. They stated: “Full planning application submitted for the redevelopment of Axbridge Court. The proposed development seeks to convert the former care home, which lies centrally within the settlement of Axbridge and the historically-rich setting of the Grade II Listed former Axbridge Workhouse, in order to provide 21no. high quality dwellings with associated parking and outdoor amenity. A mix of conversion and extension will utilise the existing buildings on site.”

A public meeting was held last year to hear comments from the public in the town hall. The former nursing home in West Street had been empty for some time after Almondsbury Care Limited went bust and closed the home in 2022 making the staff redundant and the residents homeless. It also left creditors in the lurch and according to ICSM of Bridgwater it took some time to sort out their accounts with a creditors meeting held a year later. After it went into administration the property was largely empty but a planning application was been put in to convert it into 21 ‘dwelling houses’. Originally built at the beginning of the 20th century as an Edwardian cottage hospital it was located next to the former workhouse and later hospital that was converted into flats in the 1980s. Builders are currently on site.

Highways Matters from the Council

The Town Council’s recent minutes noted: the ‘central island at Townsend: the corner of this grass verge always looked a mess, being driven over by lorries. It was difficult to resolve this.’ Efforts in the past have been made by residents to tidy the verge as well but trucks consistently mount the curb and damage the grass verge. This is an ongoing issue which other places in the town also experience such as Meadow Street and Old Church Road.

The Town Council minutes also reported on the proposed changes to parking in the Square: “The consultation had closed on 30 November 2025 and the group had considered all responses received as summarised in the report. The overall response had been positive and other comments were considered and addressed where appropriate. It was not proposed to alter parking restrictions in The Square. As a result of the consultation, members proposed that the Council request Somerset Highways to go ahead with the plan as agreed, with one very minor “tweak”: to also move the middle vertical space on the south side of the Square by the Almshouse back, so it is adjacent to the edge of the road (as the spaces either side are/will be in that position as well).”

The Council said they would request Somerset Highways to proceed with the improvements and that they would confirm they would also ensure the new white lines would be repainted when they faded.

Also, they reported on the issue of losing three spaces in the Square by increasing the parking at the top of St Mary Street in Jubilee Road. The clerk to the council reported: “…the group wished to request that the double yellow lines in front of The Pennings be removed, being historic lines to access the former garage and petrol station. This would compensate for the 3 lost spaces in The Square and would act as traffic calming, similar to parking in Jubilee Road. Lines would need to remain to permit safe access and vision for properties either side of the Pennings. Somerset Highways would be asked whether this section of double yellow lining could be removed.” Those old enough will remember that The Pennings is a newish building despite being a pastiche of a Georgian mansion and replaced a petrol station and garage.

Cheddar Reservoir 2

No news on the massive construction project lately although there is to be a second consultation this year and will ‘involve a wide range of organisations including statutory authorities, regulators, catchment partnerships, customers and local community groups.’ Planning applications will be submitted next year the West Country Water and Environment have confirmed. A reminder that the reservoir which will provide around 20 million litres per day of drinking water by 2035-36 during the summer months and will be the same size approximately than the current one but will be deeper in depth. It will be supplied with water from the Cheddar Yeo and when required the River Axe and while the old one is strawberry shaped the new one will be amoeba shaped – although Bristol Water do not use these descriptions!

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Axbridge News: Cheddar Res 2; Town Trust; The Guardian reports on The Res; Bird Flu; Axbridge Surgery; flooding; Bristol Airport drop off fees rise to £8.50; Drama in the Town Hall; and the Axbridge Diary of events

Feb 18, 2026

By Harry Mottram: After making a general enquiry on the website of West Country Water and Environment – the umbrella group behind Cheddar Reservoir 2 – I received the following reply: “Good morning Harry, Thank you for your email to the Cheddar 2 Reservoir and Transfer project. Following our first consultation on the project in Autumn 2025 we’re still considering the valuable feedback received, alongside ongoing survey work, and continuing discussions with stakeholders to inform the project’s development. We appreciate residents’ interest in the project, and we will be holding another round of consultation before any planning application is submitted. At this consultation we will present further information on how the project has progressed and provide communities and stakeholders with another opportunity to give their input and help shape the project. We don’t have a date for the consultation currently.”

Previously West Country Water and Environment (WCWE) held consultations last September which included an exhibition on plans in Axbridge Town Hall. Concerns voiced by residents included the amount of land around the reservoir construction site south of the existing one that would be affected, the access road to a new filtration complex next to the one on the Axbridge side of the reservoir from the A371, congestion around the ‘the magic roundabout’ due to the proposed Lidl on Upper New Road and new homes, and in general the effects on life in general due to a vast new construction project.

Related to the above the proposed new estate off Orchard Road in Axbridge is still on the agenda for this year according to developer Strongvox of Taunton, and Lidl have also previously said they will put forward further plans later this year for the new store. Both projects together with Cheddar Reservoir 2 will first need to go through the planning stage.

Town Trust

The Trust who look after the Grade 2 Listed Town Hall and The Square held a meeting on February 15, 2026. Writing on social media (Axbridge Community Facebook) they reported: “Matters discussed included: Mr Timothy Chard has been appointed Chair of Axbridge Town Trust, as of the 2 Feb 2026. He takes on the role from Mr Cedric (Ric) Canham. Mr Richard Parsons is the new vice-chair. The Town Hall’s new front door has been adjusted to improve the fit. The planters in the square, are being replaced. Quotes are still being sought for maintenance work to the roof of the town hall, and various required carpentry work.”

The Trust operate a fundraising draw called the Town Trust 150 Club with cash prizes – to join or to find out more email chairman@axbridgetownhall.co.uk The draw raises money for the maintenance and enhancement of the Town Hall and Axbridge Town Square. The Trust also reminded residents the town hall which has been updated and modernised is available for hire via The Clerk to the town trust. clerk@axbridgetownhall.co.uk

The Guardian and The Res

The national newspaper and news website has reported on Cheddar Reservoir’s bird life. Writing for The Guardian Stephen Moss recorded a visit to the reservoir noting many of the species of birds there. He penned: “After weeks of heavy rain, Cheddar reservoir in Somerset is finally full again – of water, and of birds. Thousands of coots, hundreds of gulls and ducks, and dozens of great crested grebes crowd the surface, some already moulting into their smart breeding plumage, crests and all.”

He also spotted tufted ducks and red-necked grebes. I don’t know about you, but it is gratifying that a national newspaper has taken an interest in our wild birds and Cheddar Reservoir!

Bird flu

While on the subject of wild birds the Bird Flu control zone that was set up on 30 January 2025 has now been lifted. The control zone centred on Dunwear, restricted the movement of poultry and birds in a 3km area around the east side of Bridgwater. Defra confirmed that following five weeks of restrictions, they consider the “completion of disease control activity and surveillance” to have been a success. All restrictions on bird movements and recording of access to bird enclosures have been lifted (with effect from 3 February 2026).

Axbridge Surgery

Sadly these days I’m a regular visitor to Axbridge Surgery – but even passer-byes will have noticed the builders are on site. In a statement published online Axbridge and Wedmore Surgeries reported: “Applications were recently invited for a national £102 million NHS England fund aimed at modernising GP premises across the country, supporting over 1,000 practices. This funding is primarily intended for refurbishment, reconfiguration, and more effective use of existing space. We are very pleased to announce that Axbridge Surgery has been awarded 100% funding, and Wedmore Surgery 66% funding, to support planned reconfigurations. We are extremely grateful to the Wedmore and Axbridge Health Fund, who have generously agreed to cover the remaining 34% shortfall for Wedmore (£42,000), as well as the costs of equipping each new clinical room.”

The work means there will be five additional clinical rooms at Axbridge and one at Wedmore. Axbridge Surgery will remain open throughout the works, which are expected to take up to 12 weeks with an end date around Easter – confirmed Dr Ewart Jackson-Voyzey and Dr Josephine McHugh GP Partners at the practice.

*Pic: BBC – near Burrowbridge this month*

Flooding

Axbridge is built mainly above the flood plain of The Levels but any visitor to much of the Somerset Levels around Currymoor, Northmoor, Saltmoor, and the moors upstream of Langport (including Huish Episcopi, Midelney and Westover) will have seen the vast areas of land under water. Somerset Council – in what they call a Multi-Agency Response – working ‘in line with the principles of the Avon and Somerset Local Resilience Forum plan, the Recovery Working Group – is continuing to plan and work toward the recovery operation.’

The Environment Agency have added pumps at: Dunball, Northmoor, Saltmoor, Elson’s Clyce, Westonzoyland and Bridgwater Canal and Docks – and say they are working 24 hours a day to pump out the flood water. The A361 between East Lyng and Burrowbridge, along with Cutts Road, the Langport to Muchelney Road and New Road, West Lyng has been badly affected by flooding.

A Somerset Council spokesperson said: “We’re fully aware of the ongoing impact of flooding on many communities in Somerset, including businesses who have lost trade due to emergency road closures.”

Potholes

Some of the worst potholes in Old Church Road and Cheddar Road in Axbridge have been filled but others remain with new ones opening up as weaknesses in the road surface quickly deteriorates. Somerset Council said they have doubled the number of crews working to repair the thousands of potholes in the county, but say they need more money from the central government to help. The government said it has awarded the council up to £46 million for repairs this year.

“We’ve got 4,170 miles of road in Somerset,” said Councillor Richard Wilkins. “It’s an incredible amount of road. We need more money, we need to put more investment into our infrastructure.”

It is easy to report a pothole or damaged road surface to Somerset Council by visiting https://www.somerset.gov.uk/roads-travel-and-parking/potholes-and-road-damage/ and completing the online form. Ideally include a photo. Axbridge Town Council also report potholes to Somerset Highways.

Bristol Airport

If you are jetting off for a holiday from the airport there are developments taking place including a clamp down on some of the offsite illegal parking sites which are cheaper for parking than the official ones at the airport. There is also new signage enforcing no stopping or waiting in the lane directly off the Airport roundabout installed and new parking restrictions for the Bridle Cottage layby on the A38 near the Fox and Goose, limiting waiting for a maximum of two hours.

There are bus services to and from the airport including the Falcon which stops at Shute Shelve – about a mile from Axbridge Square. Drop off charges start at £8.50 – for up to 10 minutes. Details at https://www.bristolairport.co.uk/parking/drop-off-and-pick-up/

Drama in the Town Hall

Axbridge Community Theatre are staging J B Priestly’s play I Have Been Here Before. Directed by John Bailey (who directed the last three pageants and numerous ACT plays) the drama is one of Priestly’s ‘Time Plays’ which imply that at certain times we seem to be able briefly to look back into the past in a moment of déjà vu. Set in an isolated pub on the Yorkshire Moors the play features the arrival of a mysterious stranger who appears to have some sort of insight into the past and future. Written before the war I Have Been Here Before was the third in the Time Plays – and you may have seen An Inspector Calls or even Time and The Conways which ACT staged in The Lion in Axbridge in the past.

The play is in complete contrast to the last drama ACT staged – Vardy v. Rooney: The Wagatha Christie Trial – which followed the court case that pitted Coleen Rooney against Rebekah Vardy who sued Rooney for libel. In that production Jude Wilson had a break out performance as a sort of Jeff Stelling type commentator – but in I Have Been Here Before he is a very different character as young headmaster Oliver Farrant. The cast also includes Sian Tutill, Phil Saunders, Tony Wilson, Liz Browne and Chris Jarman.

The play runs from 25th to 28th March 2026 in Axbridge Town Hall and then 31st March to 1st April (Bristol) – tickets on sale at: Axbridge Community Theatre event tickets from TicketSource. Also Buy Tickets – I Have Been Here Before by J.B. Priestley – Alma Tavern and Theatre Axbridge tickets are also available in the Post Office.

Rehearsal photography – Adam Clutterbuck

Artwork – Lucid Dreaming II by Barry Cawston

Axbridge Diary

I try to keep this diary of what’s on in the town up to date – so do send in your events to me as it gets thousands of reads a month. See https://www.harrymottram.co.uk/diary/

Harry is a freelance journalist. Follow him on Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, Instagram, Blue Sky, YouTube etc

Email:harryfmottram@gmail.com
Website:www.harrymottram.co.uk

Axbridge News: Axe Vale Arts Centre’s programme of events; news update on the Oakhouse; and the Orchard Road development is back on; plus the Diary of Events in Axbridge

By Harry Mottram: If you have the January blues then take a look at what’s on at the former Methodist Chapel – now the Axe Vale Arts Centre – in West Street this month and in February. Some of the events are free and the centre has a bar which sells only non alcoholic drinks plus teas and coffees – so if you are abstaining from booze then there’s no temptation so break dry January. The Randy Swindlers play the venue on Saturday 17^th January – an evening of swinging jazz and blues plus comedy from impresario Randy Swindler. That’s followed by two free gigs – poetry and spoken word on the 21^st and acoustic night on the 28^th. There’s much more later in the month along with a packed February programme so do check out for details at https://axevalearts.org.uk/#whats-on

Oakhouse Hotel

A couple of years ago the hotel, restaurant and pub closed when the lease holders quit leaving several brides-to-be high and dry as they had paid deposits for wedding receptions in advance. Workers were seen taking away furniture after the establishment had been shuttered for some time but fortunately in stepped Dave and Marina who took on the pub determined to make a success of it following the previous tenants’ departure. It quickly became very popular due to the hard work of the duo with Axbridge once again having two thriving pubs on the Square. However, running a pub is very challenging as even city centre pubs may not be busy on cold wet weekday nights – plus there’s the issue of staffing, taxation, national insurance hikes and energy costs – making profitability difficult. It now appears it has come full circle as the pub is closed at the moment, and adverts have been posted online for a new operator by Valiant Pubs of Birmingham.

Owner Steve Jenkins wrote on Facebook this month that after much soul searching he, Dave and Marina agreed to sell the pub and the business. He added: “I suspect many of you will join me in thanking the two of them for the amazing job they have done over the last couple of years in building a community led venue. The Oakhouse does need significant investment to allow it to continue in these challenging economic times. It is this which the three of us have come to terms with. The closure is only temporary, to give Dave and Marina a well-earned break. We have been proud to have been the custodians of this grand old building for the last 18 years. Now it’s time for somebody else to take it on. We will keep you updated on the progress of the sale in due course.”

Speculation had been rife since New Year’s with locals posting on Facebook but now it appears it will once again reopen with a new owner. It will be a new era for the Grade II listed building that dates to the 17^th century with evidence that parts relate to a much earlier medieval property. Many older residents can remember when it was run by Nick Barrington and Charles Donovan when it was known for its food and occasional theme nights. It has not always been a restaurant or a pub but in the early days of the motor car it sold petrol, oil and bicycle parts. I penned an article a few years ago when I was invited by the manager to look at some old photos of the place during renovations. The article is here: https://www.harrymottram.co.uk/2019/11/15/axbridge-review-feature-axbridge-square-pictured-in-the-1970s-before-all-the-changes-took-place-and-an-earlier-photo-of-the-oakhouse-hotel-where-you-could-buy-petrol-back-in-the-day%ef%bb%bf/

Orchard Road development

Strictly speaking it’s not in Orchard Road but the developers want to use the street for access to a field which they hope to build on. Axbridge News can confirm that the proposed housing development by Strongvox of Taunton is set to request planning permission for the construction of 43 homes in the field. After an initial consultation in the form of a questionnaire and the announcement by Bristol Water it would be building a new treatment works nearby along with an access road the plans disappeared from Strongvox’s website. Although the plans have gone the company confirmed by an email question by me they are to put in for planning consent.

One of the largest concerns apart from the loss of another green space is access. A footpath alongside Mendip View could connect with the plot while Orchard Road is currently a cul-de-sac with residents not keen on seeing their street an access for scores of vehicles – especially in the rush hour.

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*The farmers’ market with the fair trade stall and an excited customer buying socks*

Axbridge News: Santa in the Square, Rural crime, Trail Hunt ban, Farmers’ Market, work at Lidl site, recycle centre news and Cheddar Reservoir – plus the Axbridge Diary of Events

By Harry Mottram: The last farmer’s market of the year was held in the town on Sunday 21^st December, 2025, with the event blessed by dry weather and a large turnout of shoppers. From a Fair Trade stall to a stall stocked with venison and from one with fish and another with cakes there was plenty on offer for last minute purchases.

*Not the best photo of Santa – but it does show him in Axbridge!*

Santa in The Square

It was one of the most popular ever Santa in the square events organised by the Sports and Social who ensure Axbridge is ready for Christmas with the Square packed with hundreds of families. For the uninitiated the evening begins at 4pm as the sun light fades and braziers are lit to warm the hands of onlookers on the Saturday before Christmas. Small scale fairground stands are set up, a stall selling burgers and mulled wine and other drinks take centre stage opposite Ripley’s Antiques and the Square is closed to traffic. On the Church Steps the Axbridge Singers kept up a choral concert of carols from 5pm which was relayed over the tannoid system. On queue Father Christmas arrived and from his grotto outside the Oakhouse Hotel gave out presents to children – whose parents had waited in line for a long time in a line stretching back to the Lamb Inn. And with King John’s Hunting Lodge open there was a steady footfall in the town’s most famous timber framed building. The overall feel was that of a warm community atmosphere with many people chatting to friends and relatives and even those who are new to the town may have felt they had made the right decision to live here.

Barriers at Lidl

Much has been written about Lidl’s plans for a supermarket on Upper New Road – now in the planning application stage. The main concerns for many are congestion as the road between the ‘magic roundabout’ and Oak House Road is often grid-locked – especially at the school run or rush hour. With plans for a new roundabout for Bristol Water’s link road to the current reservoir off the A371 nearby, the former Yeo Valley development nearer to Axbridge and the Oak Park development opposite from Taylor Wimpey the plan for a grocery store is only going to increase traffic. In 2026 the plans will be decided on by planners – possibly changes will be requested – but few believe the supermarket plans will be rejected. It suggests Lidl feel they will get a green light as workers have been preparing the site ahead of construction work. Large boards have been put up and a gate installed on the site – once used as a small holding and place to sell Christmas trees.

Cheddar Reservoir

No news to report other than the current reservoir is now full after its low water levels in the summer caused many to wonder what was happening since there were periods of rain. Over at Blagdon Lake there’s been a problem with an invasive weed which are treated with steam. Bristol Water said: “We’re tackling Crassula helmsii (aka swamp stonecrop/New Zealand pigmyweed) – a highly invasive plant that’s rapidly spreading at Blagdon lake. This year’s dry weather gave it the perfect chance to take hold. Crassula helmsii is incredibly tough to control; even the smallest fragment can regrow. Please help us protect our lakes: Clean, Check, Dry your kit to stop invasive species spreading.”

So far, the weed hasn’t affected Cheddar Reservoir although contractors have been hard at work destroying ant hills on the slopes of the reservoir with rotavators. The idea is to make grass cutting easier as the ant hills prevent the mowers from making a clean sweep of the grass. On a birdwatching note, I noticed a goosander for the first time on the waters.

*Leaflets have been posted trough letterboxes in Axbridge*

Boxing Day Hunt

Technically it is not a hunt meeting in Axbridge Square on Boxing Day as it is a trail hunt – with the hounds following a trail laid out for them to follow. The main issue nationally has been the widespread abuse of the rules of the 2004 Hunting Act which replaced fox hunts with trail hunts. It has been widely reported that the Government are to seek to ban the practice with consultations in 2026 and a ban to follow. Animal Welfare Minister Baroness Hayman said: “In our manifesto we said we would ban trail hunting, and that’s exactly what we’ll do. There is evidence that trail hunting is being used as a smokescreen for the hunting of wild animals, and that’s not acceptable.”

Tim Bonner, chief executive of the Countryside Alliance, said: “Animal rights activists have spent 20 years making increasingly spurious claims about the legal activity of hunts without any evidential basis. Trail hunting is a legal activity which supports hundreds of jobs and is central to many rural communities. “Especially after its attack on family farms, the government should be focusing on addressing issues that actually help rural communities thrive, rather than pursuing divisive policies that hinder them”.

However, in Axbridge there is strong support for a ban – based on the amount of opinions sent to Axbridge News and comments on the town’s social media accounts – something reflected in nationwide opinion polls.

Recycling and bins

There are no garden waste collections from Thursday 25 December to Wednesday 7 January. Garden Waste collections re-start on Thursday 8 January 2026.

All Somerset Council recycling sites will be closed on Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day. Sites will be open as usual on other days, a list of Recycling site locations can be found on the Council’s website.

Rural Crime

Axbridge is a town in the Somerset countryside with farms located on points of the compass from its boundaries – and being close to Bristol and other large cities and towns there is a regular issue of rural crime. Farms often have some hi-tech kit on their premises and thieves see them as easy pickings – so it was good to see some arrests by the police this week of a gang operation in the county and further afield. Somerset Neighbourhood Policing Inspector Rose Green said: “We have seen hundreds of thousands of pounds worth of plant, vehicle and machinery equipment being stolen across our force areas, which has devastated our rural communities. These arrests are a significant step in the right direction following months of sorrow for our communities, especially farmers whose day-to-day lives are significantly impacted by thefts of this nature, both emotionally and financially.

“We have been proactive in attending meetings with the rural community and will continue these efforts, but I hope these recent arrests act as reassurance to those residents that we do take rural crime seriously and we will proactively target suspected organised crime groups who seek to benefit from other’s misfortune.”

Senior Investigating Officer, DI Richard Grierson, said:“This has been a long-running investigation where we have worked collaboratively with a number of different police forces and organisations. In excess of 50 officers from across Avon and Somerset, Dorset, South West Regional Organised Crime Unit (SWROCU) and Gwent were involved in the action carried out today. Enquiries are ongoing.”

As always, a reminder that these reports and information are in the public domain – I just put them together so as to make sense to me. Merry Christmas – this cartoon refers to an incident when I lost my top hat in the woods near Shipham Hill in the dark – but I found it the next day – when the effects of the gin had worn off.

For events in the town see: https://www.harrymottram.co.uk/diary/

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Axbridge News: comments on Lidl’s plans for a supermarket near Axbridge close with concerns over congestion, pedestrian and cycle access on Upper New Road – but many are in favour

Byharrymottram

Dec 15, 2025

By Harry Mottram: Reading the comments on the application of a retail store on Upper New Road which close on Monday 15 December 2025, there is an obvious split between those who want it to open and those who don’t. The main concerns of those who oppose the plans are on the practical aspects of adding a supermarket to an already busy road which can be gridlocked during the school run and other times. With roadworks and sets of lights regularly installed on the A371 between the turning to Axbridge and St Andrews Church in Cheddar many will have often wondered if it would be quicker to get out and walk.

The plans for Lidl (17/25/00051/GNN) on the Somerset Council planning portal show the layout of the proposed store and its car parking – but shows no sign of a pavement or cycle path access. There is a pavement on the opposite side of the road but without a pedestrian crossing – and from the Axbridge side – a pedestrian crossing further up at the junction with Shipham Hill – it is a hazardous crossing on a busy day.

Back in September Cheddar Parish Council objected to the plans on the issue of pedestrian access but also on congestion and whether with Sainsbury’s, Tweentown and Tesco in the village there was a need for another grocery store. Many of the comments in favour of the supermarket cite the need for a cheaper food store as Lidl is generally seen to be at the budget end of grocers with some slating Sainsbury’s as ‘a rip-off’ shop. It should be said prices at shops do fluctuate and are adjusted for different areas and what competition. Most who were in favour liked the idea of a shorter drive compared to a trip to Sainsbury’s or further afield to Budgens in Churchill or Asda in Highbridge.

Now the application has closed technically a decision could be made almost immediately with Lidl hoping (and perhaps expecting) for a green light. There has already been according to some reports of preparatory works on the site – which would necessitate the demolition of the house which stands on the land. Now it is up to the planners – but if they do agree with perhaps some modifications then the area could see the super market opened in 2027. Which is when just up the road Bristol Water could begin building their new access road to the reservoir. It would appear the valley is set for massive new developments in the next 24 months – and I’ve not even mentioned the plans at the old Yeo Valley site just yards away also off the A371.

For the record Lidl is a private grocery chain based in Germany dating back to the 1930s although it wasn’t until 1994 that the firm opened its first shop in the UK. In the 1970s the company began to focus on discounting – some say they copied Aldi’s model – but that is contested – the point being the two rivals now dominate the small supermarket sector across Britain and Europe with thousands of stores. The store says it pays a minimum of £13 an hour and will be recruiting new staff – and offer benefits including enhanced holiday entitlement, life assurance and optional health and dental insurance. They add: “Lidl GB is the only discounter to offer a colleague discount in store and has the most competitive maternity pay package in the sector. Lidl does not operate zero hours contracts. All Lidl recruitment specifically targets our stores’ primary catchment areas (usually less than a five-minute drive from the store). This means that around 80% of the jobs will be filled locally, providing a real boost to the local economy.”

Don’t forget to check out what’s on in the town at https://www.harrymottram.co.uk/diary/

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Axbridge News: Cheddar Reservoir 2, parking in the Square, Boxing Day hunt faces ban, Santa in the Square, Strawberry Line Closure and the Axbridge Diary with what’s on in the town

Byharrymottram

Dec 13, 2025

By Harry Mottram: Christmas is nearly upon us so a brief reminder of some of the events in the town to mark the festive season. Marking the celebrations of the birth of Jesus Christ there is a carol service in St John the Baptist parish church at 6pm on Sunday 21^st December and a Christingle service on Christmas Eve in the church at 4pm – always popular with families. This is followed by Midnight Mass at 11pm with a Christmas Day service in the church at 10am.

Santa in the Square

Christmas isn’t Christmas without Father Christmas and the man in red will make an appearance on Saturday, 20^th December when he arrives in style in The Square. Qualifying children will receive a present while The Square is filled with hundreds of people with the road temporarily closed for safety reasons. The Sports and Social are behind the event which features a stand with mulled wine, braziers to warm your hands on, a pig roast, children’s entertainment and organised carol singing. It’s a lovely atmosphere and a chance to catch up with friends and get in the festive spirit. The fun starts around 4pm and continues into the early evening and should you wish to continue celebrating there’s a silent disco in the Lamb Inn later – while the night before there is outdoor cinema by the Oakhouse with the screening of It’s A Wonderful Life – check details on the Axbridge Diary at https://www.harrymottram.co.uk/diary/

Cheddar Reservoir 2

Walkers and joggers will have noticed the reservoir is now around 90% full with water entering from an inlet under the Sharpham Road tower which is good news for the yacht club members. Meanwhile Axbridge News understands preparations for Cheddar Reservoir 2 continue with surveyors and engineers checking out the fields and geology of the fields around the reservoir – including the route of the new access road and the construction of the new treatment works off Portmead Drove on the Axbridge side.

West Country Water and Environment or WCWE (on behalf of Bristol Water owned by South West Water) who are behind the project to build the new reservoir and the pipeline linking it to Devon was tasked by the government under the National Framework for Water Resources to ensure there is enough water for the area in the coming years.

WCWE said: “Once operational, the new reservoir will permanently reshape the land, becoming a new visual feature. We are reviewing temporary and permanent access options for the new reservoir from the A371 in the north, Middle Moor Lane and the Lower New Road in the south.Construction will bring increased traffic and temporary disruptions, which will be carefully managed. All aspects, from environmental impact to public safety, are being carefully considered in the design process.”

Consultations begin in earnest in 2026 with planning applications the following year and construction expected to begin in 2028 or 2029 with completion a couple of years after that.

Strawberry Line Closure

On Tuesday 16 December 2025, the Strawberry Line will be closed from 9am to 5pm to all users between the Woodborough Road bridge and Winscombe Sports Club for essential Ash dieback safety work. The work is scheduled to take one day, but may extend into Wednesday 17 December if required and is being carried out by North Somerset Council. The diversion is through the car park at the football club, down the Vinery, Lynch and Green or Woodborough Road rejoining at the former station.

Trail Hunting Ban Plan

Consultations begin next year driven by a cross-party parliamentary group called The New Hunting Ban on bringing to an end trail hunting which replaced traditional fox hunting in 2004. The group said: “Since the passing of the Hunting Act 2004, fox hunting and other forms of hunting with hounds have continued almost unabated across England and Wales, with only lip service paid to the concept of “trail hunting” – a practice that has only ever existed on paper. In reality, hunting never ceased, and hunts continue to kill wildlife, abuse dogs, antagonise locals, and disrupt rural life. Enforcement of hunting law has been difficult, prosecutions rare, and convictions even rarer. The 2004 Act, while a significant step, failed to account for the determination of hunts to evade the law.”

If parliament approves of a ban on trail hunting, then the annual Boxing Day meet in the Square will see its days numbered. In recent years voices have been raised against the meet with passions running high on both sides. Nationwide polls continue to show a majority against all forms of hunting with hounds while parliament is likely to pass the legislation should it be proposed in the next couple of years. For more see https://thenewhuntingban.com/

Parking in The Square

Axbridge Town Council’s consultation over proposed plans to change the layout of parking places in The Square has now ended. The plans in discussion with Somerset Highways and Axbridge Town Trust address the changing nature of vehicles with these three main concerns: Small size of parking spaces: The dimensions of current spaces are often insufficient for modern vehicles, causing difficulties for drivers; Misuse of the disabled parking bay: The designated bay is not legally enforceable and, therefore, is frequently used by vehicles without a valid Blue Badge, preventing access for those who need it; Obstruction caused by parking near the Co-op: The first bay outside the Co-op is a frequent point of obstruction, particularly for buses navigating the area.

The proposed changes are outlined below and shown on the attached plans:

Disabled bay relocation: The disabled bay will be moved to a space on the north side of The Square, facing the Oak House. This new bay will be clearly marked with a sign, making it legally enforceable.
Wider spaces on the north side: The row of spaces on the north side of The Square will be widened, reducing the total from 8 to 7 accessible spaces.
Access to the north side: The road to the north of The Square, by The Lamb and Ripleys will be widened, creating easier access.
Reallocation of the current disabled bay: The current disabled bay will be converted into a general parking space.
Revised spacing near the Alms House: The space adjacent to the Alms House will be moved back towards the edge of the road. This will create space for a bike rack, reduce “fly parking,” and make it easier for people to get in and out of their cars on the south side of The Square.
Parking layout on the west side: The spaces on the west side will be moved towards the Hunting Lodge by half a space, away from the junction with Old Church Road. This area will be hatched, and the remaining spaces will be wider, reducing the total from 5 to 4.

The town council said: “The cost of this redesign work will be paid for by Axbridge Town Council, using money received from The Community Infrastructure Levy funds from the construction of Lavender Rise. While there will be a net loss of two parking spaces in The Square, we believe the improvements will significantly benefit residents. Additionally, the recent provision of 12 new public spaces at Lavender Rise should compensate for the reduction. The improved navigation will also reduce the threat from the Bus Company to reroute the bus.”

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Axbridge News: The Annual Charity Progressive Supper raises £1,701 in one night

With more than 100 residents taking part in the Axbridge Progressive Supper an impressive £1,701 was raised on the night for local charities. Held on Saturday 22 November 2025, starting and finishing at the Oakhouse Hotel via many homes in the town the annual event will be donating £567 to Cheddar Food Bank, Axe Vale Arts and Friends of Axbridge Church. The money came from the fees people pay to take part and the raffle held on the night.

Co-organiser Anna Dawson said she was delighted with the figure and thanked Marina and Dave at the Oakhouse and all the diners and hosts who took part in the unusual extended dinner. Anna also said without the help of Nicky Frewin, Rachel Wilkinson and Steve Dawson administrating the courses in the Oakhouse and Sue Binns and Heather Dugmore selling over £400 in raffle tickets the evening could not have happened. She said: “Thank you very much to all who took part, 108 participants this year! Special thanks to our 39 hosting pairs from the west in Compton Lane to the far end of Cheddar Road in the east. We know how much effort all the hosts put into making the evening such a success and we really appreciate all the delicious food, drinks and hospitality given. We hope you will join us next year.”

Co-organiser Margaret Cowie said each year the supper supports local charities and groups which in the past has included the parent teacher group at the school and the Axbridge Pageant. The Food Bank based in Cheddar was supported again this year due to the cost-of-living crisis that has hit many families. New this year is the Axe Vale Arts Centre based in the former Methodist Chapel in West Street which stages a number of music, arts and drama events with the hope of being able to buy the redundant church in the future. Previously the supper had donated to The Friends of Axbridge Church who raised money for a new accessible ramp for the historic building to enhance the visitor experience and with this donation more work can take place in preserving the monuments within the church.

To find out more about the supper including the date of the next one visit the Facebook group site at https://www.facebook.com/AxbridgeProgressive/ and find out more at https://www.harrymottram.co.uk/journalist/axbridge-news/axbridge-features/progressive-supper-2025/

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Axbridge Theatre Preview: It’s WAG on WAG as Rebekah Vardy goes head to head with Coleen Rooney in a very 21st century celebrity legal drama staged in Axbridge Town Hall

By Harry Mottram: In a drama all about saving face, ego and incredible wealth – the footballers wives of Jeremy Vardy and Wayne Rooney face each other in court following Rebekah Vardy’s decision to sue Coleen Rooney for defamation over leaked private messages about her private life. Mrs Rooney was convinced Mrs Vardy was behind the leaks and set a trap to expose her fellow WAG – and the phrase Wagatha Christie was born.

In 2022 the libel case finally arrived in court with the public and media gripped. From the transcripts of the court case TV script writer Olivia Hennessy created the play Vardy v Rooney: The Wagatha Christie Trial which was nominated for a Laurence Olivier Award – and now you can witness the drama in Axbridge Town Hall this week. Directed by Phil Saunders of Axbridge Community Theatre the cast features some well known local faces in what will no doubt have you gripped up until the final judgement.

There have been various documentaries about the court case and a two part Channel 4 drama – in which the lives of the Wives and Girlfriends of famous footballers are laid bare for all to see – along with the eye-wateringly high legal bills. Meanwhile their husbands continue with their footballing lives. Wayne has recently retired from a long career which ended when he managed Plymouth and Derby while Jamie is still playing top flight football – this time in Italy.

Words from Axbridge Community Theatre: “Edited from seven days of High Court transcripts, witness the case of Rebekah Vardy v Coleen Rooney as it unfolds, in their own words. A story stranger than fiction that blurs the boundaries of tabloid scoop, court case and soap opera, this trial explores privacy and celebrity in modern Britain whilst asking “who is Davy Jones and where exactly is his locker”? While the country was captivated, only a handful of people witnessed what happened behind closed doors. Now you can too! This amateur production is presented by arrangement with Concord Theatricals Ltd on behalf of Samuel French Ltd. Rehearsal Photography by Adam Clutterbuck.”

Tickets are still available for Wednesday and Thursday at https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/axbridgecommunitytheatre

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Axbridge News: Bristol Water confirm Cheddar Reservoir 2 is on – and the real reason for the delays

By Harry Mottram: Six years after it seemed the diggers where about to move in to excavate Cheddar Reservoir 2 in the land between the Clay Pits and the Cheddar Yeo there’s still no sign of work beginning on what will be one of the county’s largest infrastructure projects.

That’s actually not quite true as in the last few weeks contractors have been taking soundings in the land south of the current reservoir ahead of any major work taking place. I made an enquiry to the press office at Bristol Water about Cheddar Reservoir 2 and after a wait Water Supply Optimisation manager Owen Smith got back to me.

*The original graphic made public by Bristol Water*

Basically, due to the amount of time that has passed since 2018 when it appeared it was all systems go for the new reservoir Bristol Water needed to resurvey and re-evaluate the project in case things have changed.

He wrote: “The work developing the Cheddar 2 proposal is very much ongoing and is being progressed by West Country Water Resources (a combination of Bristol Water, Wessex Water and South West Water). As you can imagine such a significant infrastructure project requires time to collect information and develop proposals, whilst the key principle of increasing the volume of storage to make more water available from our existing resources remains the same, where the water is going and how it is connected into each water company has evolved – so it’s not as simple as just refreshing the previous plans. I appreciate the local community would like to hear more, and further updates will be provided in the coming months.”

Back in 2018 there were several issues that arose, the first being the cost which caused OFWAT to kick out the plans as the bill was essentially being passed on to customers which would have seen an above inflation hike in our water bills. Another issue was acquiring the land as it is all farmland off Hellier’s Lane with the farm at Gypsy Lane submerged along with some other agricultural buildings. There was also the problem of the Clay Pits beloved by anglers which may have to be sacrificed for the project, along with around 100 mature trees and about two miles of hedgerows which are cover for numerous wild animals, birds, flowers, plants and insects. Bristol Water assured the public that new trees would be planted to compensate for the loss and the new reservoir would be designed to encourage a range of wildlife habitats.

The geology of the area will not have changed but at the time of the first enquiry there was a local story of anthrax infected cattle being buried in the fields after the First World War. No evidence was found to support this or the theory there may have been either a Romano British or Early Medieval harbour on the Levels.

*In the original plans there would be enhanced facilities for water sports as well as an encouragement for wild life*

Whatever the outcome of the latest plans clearly the decision to proceed with what will be a massive infrastructure project has been taken.

Last year writing in the trade publication Greg Pitcher reported: “South West Water will invest £2.8bn to upgrade a third of water treatment works in Devon and Cornwall, reduce leakage to less than 10%, create a water grid to ensure all strategic reservoirs are connected and invest in large reservoirs starting with Cheddar 2 in Bristol. Water companies have set out plans to almost double their spending on the network during asset management period (AMP) 8, 2025 to 2030. The utilities filed their business plans to regulator Ofwat on Monday 2 October, asking for permission to hike customer bills to allow them to invest a combined £96bn in 2025-30. If approved, these proposals will see a raft of infrastructure projects carried out in AMP8 to improve the reliability of clean water supplies and reduce sewage spills into rivers and seas. Sector body Water UK said utilities had asked for approval to build 10 reservoirs as well to use cutting-edge technology and nature-based solutions to slash wastewater overflows.”

Initially I assumed the delay was due to a change of Government this summer and the ongoing bad publicity over pollution of rivers and the sea by the water utilities of which South West Water was implicated – especially over the Brixham incident which say households having to boil their water. Since 2018 Bristol Water was acquired by South West Water based in Exeter and part of the Pennon Group has plans to expand. Earlier this year they bought Sumisho Osaka Gas Water UK Limited, the holding company of Sutton and East Surrey Water plc (“SES Water”). Now the project is back on the utility’s agenda with South West Water confirming it hopes to have the new reservoir in operation by 2033 – some 95 years after the first one was opened just before WW2.

Axbridge News is edited by Harry Mottram and is published for the interest of himself and fellow residents.

Harry is a freelance journalist. Follow him on Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube etc

Email:harryfmottram@gmail.com
Website:www.harrymottram.co.uk

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October 11, 2024

Axbridge News: the reason why the levels in Cheddar Reservoir were so low this summer despite the unseasonably heavy rain

By Harry Mottram: It was a paradise for wetland birds, swan, ducks, coots and waders such as herons, dunlins and egrets but for many humans Cheddar Reservoir looked (and smelled) rather weird. Huge areas of the floor to the reservoir were exposed as water levels dropped to near drought levels with the yacht club unable to use the jetty as islands appeared and the vast clay floor partly exposed.

Depsite the heavy rain in the summer with a particularly soggy June and September according to the Met Office it wasn’t as wet as 2012 – the wettest summer since 1891. It was also cooler this summer than normal while Somerset saw above average rainfall in September when usually the levels rise quickly – but that didn’t happen until the start of October when water was being pumped into the Reservoir at a much higher rate.

The reason given by Bristol Water is perhaps not the one I for one had expected. I had summised it was Barrow Tanks where the water was going in the Southern Resilience pipline constructed in 2018. In fact it was a problem in Chew Valley Lake that had to be fixed with water pumped from Cheddar Reservoir.

We operate our reservoirs and wider network as one conjunctive system due to the high level of interconnectivity we have, this means that we can vary our supply strategy for a given scenario. Cheddar reservoir level can vary quite significantly throughout the year, the summer of 2023 was particularly wet and levels remained unusually high, whereas 2024 started wet, but this summer was less wet than 2023.

This is a statement from Bristol Water to my inquiry: “We have had good flows into Cheddar Reservoir this year, we have also pumped out a large volume too. This year we had an extended blue-green algae outbreak on Chew Valley Lake so we reduced our abstraction during these periods, whereas Cheddar was not affected and provided support. Additionally, when the inflows are good and the environment is wetter a good autumn/winter refill is the most likely scenario and we can drop the level lower.”

Chew Valley Lake is a flooded valley with the work to create a dam, remove thousands of tons of soil, rocks, trees, hedgerows and the village of Moreton begun in 1951 and completed in 1956. It is the fifth largest man made lake in the UK running to around an area of around 1,200 acres is size when full. Like Cheddar Reservoir Chew Valley Lake allows sailing and fishing and other water based activities but these were suspended due to high levels of blue-green algae in June as the algae can be harmful to people and animals causing vomiting and diarrhea.

Axbridge News is edited by Harry Mottram and is published for the interest of himself and fellow residents.

Harry is a freelance journalist. Follow him on Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube etc

Email:harryfmottram@gmail.com
Website:www.harrymottram.co.uk

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Cheddar Reservoir Two is back on

This article is from earlier in 2024 and since then there has not been an update on the new reservoir from South West Water – possibly to the change of Government in July and issues over pollution in the summer of 2024.

By Harry Mottram: Back in 2018 we thought the Cheddar Reservoir two project was dead. Ofwat had pulled the plug on the plans to dig a huge new reservoir south of the current one cost grounds. The plan had been to give the water customers the bill – which was ruled out by the regulator. Instead a pipeline was dug linking the Res with Barrow Tanks near Bristol – with the pipes running under the Strawberry Line and through Shute Shelve Tunnel.

Now the project is back on the utilities’ agenda with South West Water confirming it hopes to have the new reservoir in operation by 2033 – some 95 years after the first one was opened just before WW2. The plans were put forward earlier this year but have come to everyone’s attention in an article in the New Civil Engineer.

*The Res under construction in the 1930s*

In the trade publication Greg Pitcher reported this month: “South West Water will invest £2.8bn to upgrade a third of water treatment works in Devon and Cornwall, reduce leakage to less than 10%, create a water grid to ensure all strategic reservoirs are connected and invest in large reservoirs starting with Cheddar 2 in Bristol.

“Water companies have set out plans to almost double their spending on the network during asset management period (AMP) 8, 2025 to 2030. The utilities filed their business plans to regulator Ofwat on Monday 2 October, asking for permission to hike customer bills to allow them to invest a combined £96bn in 2025-30. If approved, these proposals will see a raft of infrastructure projects carried out in AMP8 to improve the reliability of clean water supplies and reduce sewage spills into rivers and seas. Sector body Water UK said utilities had asked for approval to build 10 reservoirs as well to use cutting-edge technology and nature-based solutions to slash wastewater overflows.”

In 2013 it was Bristol Water who were behind the plans which would have seen a huge reservoir dug south of the current Res swallowing up the Clay Pits, Gypsy Lane Farm, Helliers Lane and Hythe Lane off the B3151 Wedmore Road. Since then the management of Bristol Water has been taken over by South West Water who clearly have major plans for the region. Apart from cutting down hundreds of mature trees, scrubbing out miles of hedges the project would mean massive amounts of earthworks and road traffic of heavy plant and trucks.

Back then there were concerns over anthrax infected livestock that had been thought to have been buried in the area decades ago, fears that the excavations would destroy a possible Saxon port linked to the River Axe and more fancifully a Roman farm. And rather more to the point there was a suggestion it would need a new road from the A38 by the petrol station up the valley to the site to accommodate the site traffic.

I was reporting for the Cheddar Valley Gazette then and it was a huge story – with people living in the homes near the potential site concerned their house values would plummet – let alone their concerns of all the dust and noise created by the construction.

*Looking south to the clay pits where the new Res would be constructed*

Local Democracy Reporter Daniel Mumby writing for Somerset Live reported today (October 13, 2023): “Plans for a new reservoir near the Mendip Hills in Somerset appear to be back on the table, according to recently published plans. Bristol Water first teased plans for a second reservoir in Cheddar back in 2013, claiming that the reservoir would be built to the south of the village’s existing reservoir and could hold up to nine billion litres of water.

“The project (dubbed ‘Cheddar Two’) was scrapped in April 2018, with the water company claiming it was no longer needed and would focus on reducing existing leaks in its system instead.”

Patric Bulmer, head of water resources and environment at Bristol Water, stated at the time: “The information we now have on population growth and climate change has moved on significantly since we proposed the Cheddar Two project.

“That, coupled with our planned reduction in leakage and work to improve water efficiency means we no longer believe the reservoir is needed.”

Ofwat will publish a draft determination for each company by June next year. These will be consulted on before final determinations are set in late 2024.

*The Res is home to the Bristol Corinthian’s sailing club*

David Black, chief executive at the regulator, said: “The water industry needs to deliver a step change in investment and performance to clean up our rivers and seas, while also helping to ensure that we can meet the challenge of climate change.

“Company business plans are an important first step in the price review process. Ofwat’s role is to forensically scrutinise their proposals, to ensure any increase in bills is justified, efficient and delivers significant improvements in river and bathing water quality. We will assess how companies are helping customers to afford any bill increase.

“As we work through the business plans we will continue to monitor companies’ performance, hold them to account for delivering improvements and push them to build meaningful plans to change.”

Daniel Mumby said the project’s revival has now been corroborated within South West Water’s business plan – though it will require Ofwat’s approval by June 2024 before it can begin the process of securing planning permission afresh. The plan said: “As part of our continued investment in the UK water sector, customers of Bristol Water, Bournemouth Water and those in the Isles of Scilly are set to receive their largest ever investment in their water infrastructure and in resilience, building on the track record for water services we have delivered in Devon and Cornwall, and sharing the learnings from the extended drought.

“It’s also why we’re resurrecting the previously disregarded plans for the Cheddar Two reservoir, that will benefit customers across the Greater South West. Our merger with Bristol Water, driven by synergies and strategic water resources benefits, and our active progression of the need for the new Cheddar Two reservoir, brings benefits to all of the wider South West region, including the Wessex region.”

*How the valley looked as work began in the 1930s*

In the late 1930s Cheddar Reservoir was constructed mainly by men with picks and shovels. A steam digger was brought in along with a branch line from the Cheddar Valley Railway to bring in materials to the site. Built as a saucer shape and relatively shallow it was state of the art at the time – with a second one planned to go along side – hence the straight side on the Axbridge side meaning it has the shape of a giant strawberry. The plan for the second Reservoir in 2013 was changed as the land to the west of the Res had since had a refuse tip built – now a grassed over field – and properties had been built that would have been in the way.

Now it is wait and see – Ofwat will publish a draft determination for each company by June next year. These will be consulted on before final determinations are set in late 2024. Remember there is likely to be an election next year and these costs could spiral as they did for HS2 so despite the plans nothing is certain in this 21st century world. One this is certain though – with more homes being constructed in Axbridge and Cheddar – and plans for even more in the region – the demand for water will only grow.

My thanks to George Tyte for spotting the Somerset Live article.

Your thoughts on the subject to harryfmottram@gmail.com

Axbridge News is edited by Harry Mottram and is published for the interest of himself and fellow residents.

Harry is a freelance journalist. Follow him on Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube etc

Email:harryfmottram@gmail.com
Website:www.harrymottram.co.uk

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Axbridge News: update on the Oakhouse Hotel in Axbridge following issues over it’s apparent closure and attempts to book it for weddings

Byharrymottram

FEB 12, 2024

By Harry Mottram: In the last few weeks there have been a number of comments online on various social media platforms about problems booking rooms and events such as weddings at the Oakhouse Hotel in Axbridge.

Residents know it has not been open on a regular basis for some weeks although there have been occasional wedding receptions. Various rumours have circulated about it being in administration, being up for sale along with a plan to mothball it until trade picks up.

*Readers may recognise this pervious owner Charles Donovan of the restaurant – back in the day* *when he ran it with Nick Barrington – info from Susan Forsdyke-Bishop*

The hotel is not up for sale as the owner Steve Jenkins has made plain on the Axbridge Community FaceBook site. He wrote: “Hi all, I own the building and confirm there are no plans to sell the Oakhouse. However, the current tenants have clearly decided to close the business, from what I can tell, indefinitely. I am working on resolving the situation asap and am hopeful the hotel and bar will re-open in Spring. I suggest anyone with a booking reach out to the email addresses and any mobile numbers they currently have for the existing tenants. Unfortunately, I cannot help with this, as I have no legal authority to influence any business decisions in relation to the hotel company nor share its data. This is the responsibility of the tenants and directors. I assure you I feel as passionately about the the Oakhouse as anyone does and will update you further in due course.”

A look on the Government’s Companies House website that lists all limited companies and gives details shows that at the moment it is not in administration – information that is in the public domain.

There have been a number of officers and owners of the hotel over the years but at present they are Luke and Melanie Sturman who it is understood hold a lease. Luke’s correspondence address is in Wareham in Dorset and Melanie’s is at the Oakhouse. A confirmation statement was made on 3rd January this year while Melanie made a change of details to Companies House last summer with an indication she was ‘a person of significant control’.

*The Oakhouse even served petrol at one stage in the early 20th century*

The Grade II listed building and hotel has had a number of transformations over the years – originally constructed as two houses and in the early 20^th century it was for a time a petrol station. It dates back to (according to most sources) to the 11^th century – but only in parts such as a fireplace and the well – one of the hotel’s most interesting features. However, the property was rebuilt and much of the building dates from the 17^th and 18^th centuries with later modernisations.

To echo Steve Jenkins’ comments – we all hope the hotel and restaurant will reopen soon as it is one of the town’s finest buildings set in a wonderful location and part of Axbridge’s business community.

Axbridge News is edited by Harry Mottram and is published for the interest of himself and fellow residents.

Harry is a freelance journalist. Follow him on Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube etc

Email:harryfmottram@gmail.com
Website:www.harrymottram.co.uk

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Axbridge News: remembering Johdi Russell with the annual Purple Ball that raises awareness of sudden death from epilepsy with SUDEP Action

Byharrymottram

JAN 14, 2024

By Harry Mottram: The Purple Ball commemorates the life of Johdi Russell from Cheddar – organised by her family and friends – and raises cash for SUDEP Action – the charity dedicated to raising awareness of epilepsy risks and tackling epilepsy deaths including Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy.

Johdi Russell was just 17 when she suddenly died in October 2017. In a BBC article by Emma Elgee written at the time Johdi’s mum Tanya said: “Johdi was amazing and absolutely hilarious, she was one of those girls who always went above and beyond for people. I always describe her as like sunshine on a rainy day.”

Emma wrote: “Since then Mrs Russell, who also has epilepsy, has campaigned to change processes in hospitals and GP surgeries to make sure families with children with epilepsy are informed about SUDEP. She also hosts a yearly ball to raise money for SUDEP charities and support other bereaved families.”

SUDEP is a rare condition which affects around one in every 1,000 adults with epilepsy each year. According to SUDEP Action, the cause of SUDEP is not yet known, with researchers investigating a range of possibilities such as the effect of seizures on breathing and the heart.

Their services include bereavement support, counselling, help with understanding the inquest process and in collaboration with UK research teams, the involvement of bereaved families and professionals in research through the Epilepsy Deaths Register. See https://sudep.org/

The Purple Ball is an impressive event raising thousands of pounds for SUDEP Action – and features a three course meal, music, dancing, entertainment, a raffle – and above all a great night out. This year the event is on Saturday, October 5th, 2024, at the Winter Gardens in Weston-super-Mare. Tickets are now available – scan the QR code on the poster or visit https://www.jumblebee.co.uk/thepurpleball2024inmemoryofjohdirussell

If you have been affected by an epilepsy death, please contact our support team on 01235 772852. Visit https://sudep.org/ for more information and see Johdi’s story at https://sudep.org/my-story/stories/johdi

To read Emma’s article see https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-somerset-67156694

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Axbridge News: Axbridge Progressive Supper donates £500 to the Cheddar Foodbank, Axe Valley Men’s Shed and the Axbridge Blackberry Carnival

*From left: Margaret Cowie of the Axbridge Progressive Supper, Barbara Wells of the Axbridge Action Committee and Penny Cooke of the Cheddar Food Bank*

By Harry Mottram: Last year’s Axbridge Progressive Supper raised £1,542 in a combination of the tickets for the starters, mains and sweets plus the raffle organised by Margaret Cowie. As a result the committee of Kirsty Edwards, Zoe Hebden, Margaret Cowie, Sarah Boundy and Harry Mottram have been able to award £500 each to three local charities: Cheddar Food Bank, Axbridge Carnival and the Axe Valley Men’s Shed. The charity supper is under the umbrella of the Axbridge Action Committee – with the £42 being held over to the next progressive supper which is on Saturday 30th November 2024.

Representatives of all three charities were on hand for photographs to mark the donations on Saturday, 3rd February 2024, during the monthly Farmers’ Market in Axbridge Square. The Annual Progressive Supper has raised cash for local charities for the last four or more decades with all the cash going to the chosen charities and is a voluntary run event with all the cash going to charities. New people are always welcome to join the committee (please email harryfmottram@gmail.com to join – it’s a lot of fun and you get to meet lots of new people). In already in 2024 new members Barbara Wells and Anna Dawson have joined.

*Barbara Wells and Margaret Cowie with the chaps from Axe Valley Men’s Shed – from left Mark Parnell, Roger Cowie, Andy Laken, George Marshall, Mike Belch, Frank Ferguson and Clive Jenkins*

Axe Valley Mens’ Shed is a registered charity and member of the UK Men’s Sheds Association. If you want to help support their work to improve the mental health and wellbeing of local men and the restoration of the former Axbridge Railway Station as their new HQ, then please make a donation on our GoFundMe page. For details visit https://axevalleymensshed.org/

Cheddar Food Bank is a part of the Trussell Trust, the charity that works to end the need for food banks in the United Kingdom. It “is based on, shaped, and guided by Christian principles” and supports a network of over 1,200 food bank centres to provide emergency food and compassionate, practical support to people in crisis, while campaigning for long-term change to the structural issues that lock people into poverty. It is located at Unit 8, Wessex Business Centre, Cheddar BS27 3EJ. To enquire about how to obtain a food parcel, or to make a food donation, please contact the foodbank by phone on 07922 309369, or by email at info@cheddarvalley.foodbank.org.uk. For more details and to help or donate visit https://www.trusselltrust.org/get-help/find-a-foodbank/cheddarvalley/

*Margaret Cowie, Anna Dawson and Barbara Wells of the Progressive Supper with Di Owen, George Marshall, Karen Healey and*

Axbridge Carnival Committee organise the Annual Blackberry Carnival in September which coincides with Blackberry Fun Fair in the Square. It takes a lot of work to put on this popular and long running community event so they are always in need of extra hands, donations and sponsors. In recent years there has been increased rules over carnival events which increase the costs of running Axbridge’s family event – hence the need to fundraise. Their Face Book page is at https://www.facebook.com/AxbridgeBlackberryCarnival/?locale=en_GB

The Axbridge Progressive Supper is held every year near the end of November or the beginning of December and features three courses chosen by diners out of a hat – so they have no idea where they will sit down for their three courses – each in a different location. For details visit the Face Book page at https://www.facebook.com/AxbridgeProgressive/

The next progressive supper is on Saturday 30th November 2024.

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Axbridge Review: it’s official – the next Axbridge Pageant is set for 2029 to mark the 800th anniversary of the town’s Plantagenet charter – so mark your diaries

By Harry Mottram: To celebrate the awarding of the town’s 13^th century charter, the next Axbridge Pageant slated for 2030 has been brought forward by 12 months by the Axbridge Pageant Trust to 2029. The new date will see the huge community play held in the town square staged over the August bank holiday weekend of Saturday-Monday, August 25-27, 2029, daily at 3pm.

In 1229 a charter granted by King Henry III (800 years before 2029) freed Axbridge traders from tolls and recognised the town as an important market centre in the county. Wool had become one of the town’s wealth generating industries as sheep on the Mendips became big business. Guilds were established to protect the commerce in Axbridge making it a centre for the lucrative trade and for the Crown a vital source of taxation and revenue. It is also the 750th anniversary of the charter granted by Edward I in 1279 allowing Axbridge to hold a fair.

The Axbridge Pageant Trust and the town crier Nigel Scott said it was important to mark the year as the charters gave the town an independence and a prosperity which began the process of leaving behind the constraints of medieval England.

Nigel Scott said: “The pageant has come to define the town since its inception in 1967 when the history play was created in the town square to celebrate the opening of the bypass which freed the narrow streets from through traffic. From that humble beginning the pageant has become globally famous with live streaming on social media, plus television and radio coverage, the subject of a social research project by universities and its cast of hundreds of local people. It was repeated in 1970, 1980, 1990, 2000, 2010 and again in 2022 – having been put back two years by the Covid crisis. People travel from around the world to see the three-day event complete with associated live music concerts – and so it seems appropriate to mark the 800^th anniversary of the Plantagenet charter.”

The pageant trustees said more details will be announced in the coming months but asked residents and fans of the pageant to mark their diaries for August Saturday-Monday, 25-27, 2029.

Photo: Nigel Carson

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The annual carnival proves a success with fine weather, large crowds and of course… Barbie and Ken

By Harry Mottram: The annual Axbridge Blackberry Carnival was a huge success on Saturday 23rd September, 2023, and was blessed with fine weather. Large crowds lined the route and with plenty of entries the procession passed through the Square packed as usual with the rides of the fun fair.

The organisers said: “Thank you to everyone who took part and to those who volunteered to marshal the route – with who we could not hold the carnival. Once again Axbridge came good to make the carnival a wonderful family event. And everyone who put an entry in is a winner in our eyes. The creativity and originality of the entries never ceases to amaze us – so thankyou to everyone involved and to those who spend so much time making the costumes and dressing the floats.

“The wonderful Carnival Queen and Princesses (and their parents), the Town Crier and the Mayors who very kindly open the carnival for us. Thanks to the amazing people in the community who help us with moving planters and street furniture, putting out road signs and traffic cones and clearing the decks for the big day. Plus, the wonderful people who put on their high vis to become stewards on the day to help us to keep everyone safe and photographer Toby. And the brilliant first aiders, the traffic marshals, the clean-up crew who put everything back to how it was. Thanks to the local council and traffic management for keeping us on track health and safety wise – the Post office staff who help us hand out entry forms and risk assessments, plus the local pubs, cafes and Coop for keeping us fed and watered.

“Also thanks to the Judges who give up their time on the day, and Ben who provides us with the PA, Harry for providing us with lots of publicity, Vick’s Mum for doing the posies, and Toby and Stellan for being our official photographers for the day. And not forgetting the lovely fairground team who come to Axbridge every year to add to the fun and excitement of Carnival Day.

“Our Chairman Robin Mace who oversees everything and keeps us on the straight and narrow. Mel and Sophie who smash the procession organisation, Vicky who smashes the town hall proceedings and Di Owen who holds us all together. And a very special mention to our newest committee member who only joined us about three months ago but has had no choice but to hit the ground running and has got us all organised and on track – not always an easy task and we couldn’t have done it without you! Thank you Karen!”

A funding appeal has been launched to raise cash to pay for next year’s carnival – to donate go to Just Giving and search for Axbridge Carnival. With increased paperwork and costs from the County Council it is a huge task for the small group of people on the carnival committee to ensure the event continues with a target of £5,000.

The procession was led by the civic party known as ‘the chain gang’ with the Axbridge Mayor Councillor Frankie Mitton, the town councillors, the mace bearer, town crier Nigel Scottand, the bailiff plus mayors and civic leaders across the county who accompanied them.

The results for Axbridge Blackberry Carnival 2023 are: Overall Winner, Barbie and Ken; Wackiest Entry, Barbie and Ken; Best Entry on Wheels, Thunderbird; Walking Juniors, 1st place – Rhythm Fever, 2nd place – Saxons Supporters Club; Open Walking, 1st place – Surfers against Sewage, 2nd place – The Government Inspector, 3rd place – Frolicking Fairies; Junior Trailers, 1st place – Hakuna Matata, 2nd place – Buzzing Brownies; Open Trailed, 1st Axbridge Harvest Home; Best Dressed Driver, Liz Scott.

The Castle Cary Majorettes known as the Cygnets also provided a spectacular aspect to the procession, plus there were some colourful entries that raised a smile including George Tyte’s tractor pulling the Harvest Home float, the Carnival Queen and her princesses, the Only Fools and Horses entry with a three-wheeler, several classic cars and motorcycles, chopper 70s cycles and of course the many walking entries including the Adams Family, witches and Laurel and Hardy – featuring the former mayor Edith Channon.

The Axbridge Blackberry Carnival has a long history and has seen a revival in recent years with more entries, large crowds and rain-free passes from the weather gods. There is plenty more on their Facebook site – but they always need more help in organising and of course fundraising. Without the work of the likes of Bev Davies in the past ant Di Owen, Andy Corp, the Caple family, Cath Frith the chairman Robin Mace, and many more – it would not happen – so do lend a hand – or at least visit the Just Giving site and chip in a few quid.

Next year’s carnival is slated for Saturday 21^st September, 2024, although the date is to be confirmed.

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Axbridge Review – feedback from the public meeting on the campaign to Save The Axbridge Methodist Church moves on to some practical steps to realise the dream of an arts centre

Byharrymottram

Dec 1, 2024

By Harry Mottram: The two main people behind driving the campaign to Save The Axbridge Methodist Church have published the ideas, feedback and next steps for the project following a public meeting in Axbridge Town Hall.

On Monday 25^th November, 2024, around 60 or more people attended the meeting to give their opinions and thoughts on the project to keep the church for community use. The meeting had a panel of interested parties including Paul Hughes and Peter Harding who are driving the plan along with in advisory roles Councillor Pauline Ham, the Mayor Graham Page and the Reverend Andrew Bell and Malcolm Gale from the Methodist Church.

Following the meeting Paul Hughes published a statement on the Next Steps.

1. People at the meeting gave clear voice that they wanted to see the Methodist Church Building saved for use by the community.

2. We now need to pull together clarification of the feasibility of the centre and make sure that we can make our case to The Methodist Church and work together with them to move forward.

3. Reach out and find out about other churches which have been converted into art centre – such as David Hall in South Petherton and the building in Cinderford

4. All attendees provide contact details if they want to be kept informed and get involved. This will be followed up and a Steering Group will be established.

5. We will send initial feedback/proposal to the local Methodist Leadership Team. We will ask for clarification on costs and need for a Structural Survey.

6. We will aim to set up a Charitable Incorporated Organisation or Community Interest Company but in the interim the ‘Axbridge Arts Interest group will come under the umbrella of the Axbridge Action Group.

What emerged from the public meeting was the prospect of a three-year lease while the Axbridge Arts Centre Interest Group are able to assess its viability. These would be restricted by the stipulation by the Methodist Church authorities that the lease if offered would ban the sale or consumption of alcohol. At the end of the three years the group would have the option to buy the building. Based on present figures that is likely only with the help of grants and fundraising.

One imaginative idea from the public meeting was the suggestion the town could be sold to fund the purchase of the church – but this won’t happen as The Town Trust would almost certainly block the idea. Another idea was to suggestion the church would be renamed The Axbridge Ark which seemed to gain approval from the attendees.

It is now up to the Axbridge Arts Centre Interest Group to try and realise the next steps while the pressure is on to come up with a proposal for the church authorities to consider who wish to put the property up for sale with what Axbridge Review understands to be in the region of £200,000. The steering group also need some information as regards the conditions of the building and any associated potential costs for upkeep and updating suitable for an arts or community centre. The Methodist Church authorities will make a decision in March 2025 so the clock is ticking.

For more on the public meeting see https://www.harrymottram.co.uk/2024/11/25/axbridge-review-rev-andrew-bell-no-booze-if-methodist-church-is-leased-church-authorities-will-sell-to-highest-bidder-while-the-public-suggest-various-ideas-in-a-packed-town-hall-including-its-sa/

And also https://www.harrymottram.co.uk/2024/11/24/axbridge-review-campaign-to-save-the-axbridge-methodist-church-for-the-community-begins-with-an-open-afternoon-and-a-public-meeting/

Axbridge Review is edited by Harry Mottram and is published for the interest of himself and fellow residents.

Harry is a freelance journalist. Follow him on Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube etc

Email:harryfmottram@gmail.com
Website:www.harrymottram.co.uk

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Axbridge Review: update on the annual Boxing Day meeting of Weston and Banwell Harriers in Axbridge as anti-hunt group doubles down on their opposition

Byharrymottram

Nov 29, 2024

By Harry Mottram: Axbridge Town Council has responded to questions from Alyson Rogers of Action Against Foxhunting over their jurisdiction of the town square and whether they have the power to prevent the annual Boxing Day meet of the Weston and Banwell Harriers. In response to the question the council said in a statement (as reported by Alyson Rogers): “Further to your email I just wish to reiterate that Axbridge Town Council has no jurisdiction or involvement with any events taking place in The Square.”

The Square is largely the responsibility of The Town Trust who also look after the town hall – a Grade II listed building – who also have no powers to prevent the hunt from meeting in the Square. Trail hunting is currently legal in England and Wales – it replaced the traditional hunt under the 2004 Hunting Act which allows for one or two dogs to ‘flush out’ a fox from a hedge or thicket. There has been abuse of this aspect of trail hunting which is the reason why Labour have pledged to outlaw trail hunting completely.

Anti hunt groups have been putting pressure on parish and town councils to ban hunts from meeting in public places on health and safety grounds in order to end the practice. In reply to Axbridge Town Council Alyson Rogers said: “We are well aware that the Town Council and Town Trust have no powers to stop the hunt meeting there, but they both have a duty of care, particularly as the Weston & Banwell hunt have not applied for a road closure. We are asking you as a council to contact the Weston and Banwell Hunt to ask them not to come to Axbridge on Boxing Day for health and safety reasons. We have shown that the event, because of the lack of a road closure and the closing of parking slots contravenes the law. We have also shown that the majority of Axbridge residents don’t want the hunt here, and as a council, it is important that you speak for the people.”

The anti-hunt group also presented a petition with 240 signatures to the council to back up their claims that the hunt was not wanted by residents. However, as it stands the hunt can meet legally in the Square even if vehicles have difficulty in passing through or to find somewhere to park due to the large numbers of people, horse riders and hounds. The hunt supporters argue it is only for a few minutes – an hour at most that they occupy the Square. And at midnight on New Year’s Eve the Square is packed with people celebrating midnight – and again traffic would find it very difficult to pass through for a short time. Alyson Rogers also criticised the Town Trust as she says they effectively facilitate the meeting by ‘closing the car park.’ She has promised to again demonstrate against the hunt on the day.

The Countryside Alliance are adamant there is no reason for hunt meetings not to take place and have organised counter-campaigns to combat attempts to curtail lawful hunting activity from taking place on council land, public spaces and on private land. In Tiverton in Devon (one of several places where the hunting community face opposition) they said: “The Tiverton Hunt’s annual Boxing Day meet is always incredibly well attended, with families from all over the local area flocking to the town centre to cheer on the spectacle. Many attendees use the opportunity to shop locally, supporting local hospitality and retail at an important time of year.”

The Countryside Alliance added: “Boxing Day meets are enjoyed by thousands of people from all walks of life, in many cases bringing much needed footfall to towns and village centres, boosting support for local businesses. Often criticism of these popular events is whipped up by small groups of activists from outside the local area.”

Maddy Jennings and Andy Trigg of the BBC reported that in 2022, official figures compiled by the Labour Party showed there were 438 convictions under the Hunting Act since 2010 over abuses of the law. A Defra spokesperson said: “This government was elected on a mandate to introduce the most ambitious plans to improve animal welfare in a generation, including banning trail hunting.” Before the General Election, in June, then shadow environment secretary Steve Reed tweeted that Labour would “end trail hunting that allows for the illegal hunting of foxes, deer, and hares to continue”.

Axbridge Review has not approached the town council or the town trust for a comment but understand the town council do not have any jurisdiction over activity in the Square and the Town Trust have not breached any laws by not banning or restricting the Boxing Day meet. Also, we understand Somerset Council has approached the hunt over the meeting as they have jurisdiction over the roads in the Square.

Just to reiterate it is as far as Axbridge Review understands the annual Boxing Day meet of the Weston and Banwell Harriers is entirely legal while those wishing to demonstrate their opposition are also within the law to make their point made on the same day.

I have written more on this subject at https://www.harrymottram.co.uk/2024/11/13/axbridge-review-the-towns-boxing-day-hunt-meeting-set-for-more-opposition/

For more on Axbridge Town Council visit https://axbridge-tc.gov.uk/

For more on The Countryside Alliance visit https://www.countryside-alliance.org/campaign-for-hunting

For more on Action Against Foxhunting visit https://www.actionagainstfoxhunting.org/

For more on the Weston and Banwell Harriers visit https://www.wildlifeguardian.co.uk/hunts/weston-and-banwell-harriers/

For more on the law visit https://www.cps.gov.uk/legal-guidance/hunting-act-2004

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