On Saturday 3 October the Wells Cathedral Chorister Trust celebrated their Annual Evensong. Here are the words from Arnold Wills, Chair of the Trust, included in the Order of Service.

‘Thank you for being with us today. As we wait for the start of this 2026 Annual Evensong, may I ask that you all think about what difference you yourself can make to help the Chorister cause at Wells Cathedral.

Today especially, we celebrate the work of The Friends of Wells Cathedral Chorister Trust and its support for the ‘Chorister cause’. It is one of the main ways for supporters to financially assist the Chorister tradition at Wells. I am very grateful to all our regular and occasional donors, and we especially welcome any new Friends who have joined this year.

Wells Cathedral School musicians will be joining with the Choir today and we are very pleased to have our friends from the School’s music department with us. It is always good to collaborate.

Today, HM Vice Lord-Lieutenant Robert Drewett is representing HM Lord-Lieutenant of Somerset. Both are Patrons of WCCT. Robert is joined by his wife Celia and it is a pleasure to have them both with us.

The Right Reverend Michael Beasley, Bishop of Bath and Wells, has been called to serve in the House of Lords as one of the Church of England’s Lords Spiritual. Bishop Michael has received his writ of summons from the King and is expected to be introduced to the House in October. We send him our congratulations.

James Davies became Headmaster of the School this term. His enthusiasm for the Cathedral, the School, and the Chorister Trust makes it seem as though he has been here for years. He has a key role, and the Trustees have assured him of their full support. Even before taking up his post, James became WCCT’s 100th Friend — what a commitment.

Just before the service today, the Choir will sing an introit as we remember the life of Lady Patricia Marina Hobson who died recently. Lady Hobson, along with her husband Sir Ronald, particularly in the early days of the Chorister Trust, were fervent supporters. The Chorister Trust would not have been so successful without their early support and enthusiasm for all that we did, helping those who, after means testing, need additional bursaries.

Lady Hobson was a supporter to the end and she was a delight to liaise with. She loved the Choristers here and enjoyed receiving news and hearing all about the children and the work of WCCT. The last opportunity to support the WCCT was in favour of the Coronation Fund. We have sent condolences to her family. May she Rest in Peace.

We were so pleased that this summer Cantiamo Singers, directed by Jeremy Martin, held an enjoyable fundraising concert in the Bishop’s Palace Chapel and tickets sold out well in advance. There will be a repeat Sunday evening event in the summer of 2027. Date to be announced.

So, what difference can I make to help the ‘Chorister cause’ at Wells Cathedral? There have been Choristers singing at Wells Cathedral since 909 (as far as records can tell) and that is before the current Cathedral building was completed. I can tell you that without the work of WCCT the Choir and this tradition in its current form would no longer exist. The Friends of WCCT undertake a regular commitment to support the ‘Chorister cause’, ranging upwards from £10 per month. Ambassadors undertake £100 or more per month. Each donor gives as much they can, which makes a real difference. We need your help!

What difference can I make?

· You could simply do nothing and continue telling your friends and family how marvellous the Choristers and the Choir are. We all know that is not an option if we wish to preserve this magnificent tradition.

· You could join the family of WCCT – The Friends of WCCT www.wcct.co.uk/friends

· You might decide to review your Will and leave a legacy on your death for the WCCT.

· You might decide to make a lifetime gift. Currently there are tax benefits on lifetime gifts and legacies. I wonder how long this government will allow that benefit to continue?

So unashamedly, I ask for your support.

This is my final year as Chair of Trustees which ends in November 2027 with much ahead still to achieve. Meanwhile, my very best wishes and thank you to our amazing Choristers and to their supportive families.’

Arnold Wills

Chair of The Wells Cathedral Chorister Trust

chair@wcct.co.uk