Nestled in the rolling Mendip Hills of Somerset, the Parish of Mells is more than just a dot on the map; it’s a living, breathing community with a rich tapestry of history. Located within the Somerset Council area, our parish weaves together ancient landscapes, industrial heritage, and a vibrant contemporary community spirit.
Our Parish’s Story: From Stone to Steam
We’ll trace our roots from ancient sites to the literary legacy of the Horner family at Mells Manor, highlighting our deep, tangible history.
Ancient Foundations
The parish’s story is etched into its very soil. At its heart stands the historic St Andrew’s Church in Mells, a site of worship for centuries and the final resting place of renowned war poet Siegfried Sassoon, who is buried in the churchyard.
Industrial Heartbeat
Our neighbouring hamlet of Vobster powered an era. It is historically known for the Vobster Breach colliery and, more recently, the now-closed Vobster Quay inland diving site, reminders of the area’s industrial past and adaptation.
Literary and Artistic Legacy
From the Horner family connections to the artistic figures drawn to its beauty, Mells has long been a haven for writers and thinkers, adding a profound cultural layer to our local identity.
Our Editorial Mission: Community at the Core
We explain our unique editorial focus, which connects official parish information with informed commentary on community-led activities like our village lottery and the UK Gambling Commission’s rules for small society lotteries.
Informing the Parish
First and foremost, we provide clear, official-style information from Mells Parish Council. We are your source for council decisions, local planning, and essential community updates.
Navigating Regulations
We go further by offering editorial insight into the rules that affect community life. A key example is explaining how the UK Gambling Commission regulates ‘small society lotteries’, which are vital for village lottery fundraising efforts across Somerset.
Championing Local Fundraising
We spotlight the initiatives that keep our community thriving. This includes covering popular local fundraising events like community bingo nights, common in Somerset villages, and explaining how they operate successfully within the legal framework.
How Our Team Works for You
We operate with a personal, first-hand approach, attending parish council meetings and community events to give you an informed, conversational, and sometimes opinionated take on local life.
On the Ground Reporting
Our editorial team is embedded in the parish. We don’t just report from a distance; we are present at meetings, fetes, and fundraisers, capturing the authentic voice of Mells and Vobster.
A Conversational Voice
We believe community news shouldn’t be dry. We write with a direct, engaging tone—breaking down complex topics like charity law into clear, useful information for residents and organisers.
Local Insight, National Context
We connect local happenings to wider frameworks. Whether it’s how national policy affects our village hall or the significance of a regional heritage site, we provide the context that makes local news matter.
The true character of our parish is found not only in its resilient landscape but in the ongoing story of its people—a story of industry, creativity, and communal resilience. We are committed to sharing that story, from official notices to the lively chatter after a community bingo night, celebrating what makes Mells and Vobster unique.