THE IDEA

The Trust exists for the general betterment of Wellhouse: To achieve for the village, that which the residents desire; To guide, enable, and facilitate; To channel, and represent.

FORMATION

In early 1996, the Methodist Church let it be known that they were considering the sale of Wellhouse Graveyard for housing development. At a public meeting at the school called by Colne Valley Trust, some 100 local residents met and determined that `something must be done'. A group of volunteers were elected with the brief to `save' the graveyard, possibly through the medium of a Charitable Trust. Meeting for the first time on 11th March 1996, the work necessary such a Trust was begun, with final registration being received on 6th Nov.1996. The Trust has a general remit to Preserve and Enhance Wellhouse and it's Environment

THE GRAVEYARD

The Church authorities agreed in principle to transfer ownership, as at the time of writing the legal process continues but is nearing completion. Much hard work has been done, but the job is not yet complete.

THE GREEN

Early in 1998, two local residents took it upon themselves to tidy the Green and planted new flowers along the roadside frontage. In lobbying Kirklees Council for the reinstatement of the Playground Equipment, an eight year time table was discovered. This delay, they were told, could be shortened if the village could be seen to demonstrate support and commitment to the proposal. Negotiations led to an agreement with the Council that work would be brought forward if the village could raise 50% of the estimated capital costs of £7,500 -- some £3,750. Fired by the challenge, the people of Wellhouse rallied round and supported a variety of fund raising events. The Trust lent it's name, and Charity status, to the venture along with volunteer labour. Success, and the new , village specified WOODEN playground equipment was installed in August 1999. Clearance and planting work continues in the upper reaches of the Green, but save for painting the surrounding railings green, the playground is complete.

THE CLUB

Although used extensively for fund raising events to the benefit the Green, the Liberal Club was, by early 1999, exhibiting but a shadow of it's former glory. In April, an open meeting considered closure, but a name change to THE VILLAGE CLUB and a revamp proved to be the favoured option. Later in the year, The Trust was approached with a view to leasing the upper room at the Club. That room having remained unused since 1987 due to disrepair, and as a cost saving measure. After negotiations, it was agreed that The Trust would lease the whole enterprise and operate the venue for the greater benefit of the residents of Wellhouse, there being a cost saving through operation as a charity. A new fire escape. a new ceiling, rewiring, and minor repairs were undertaken, and the new, enlarged Village Club opened with a New Year's Eve event and much rejoicing. The Upper Room offers a smoke - free alternative to the Lounge area on the ground floor, and together with the smaller Pool Room, offers a new flexibility to the venue. Just over one year on, and a pattern of usage has developed that has enabled The Club to survive, cover costs and generate a small surplus.

FUTURE

Using a regular monthly Newsletter, The Trust is keen to inform, and to elicit ideas and requests from residents. Where possible the goals identified will be worked towards for the general good.

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