Two long-standing Wells businesses are celebrating their 50th anniversaries, marking half a century of serving the local community.

City News, the High Street newsagents, first opened its doors in November 1974. The shop quickly became a go-to spot for daily and local newspapers, magazines, stationery, confectionery, and smoking requisites.

The shop has remained a fixture in Wells for five decades, with a commemorative plaque presented by Wells Civic Society in 2020 recognising its long-standing presence.

Meanwhile, The Ancient Gatehouse Hotel and Rugantino restaurant, located on Sadler Street, also marked its 50th anniversary in December. The hotel and Italian restaurant were founded in 1974 by Franco Rossi and his wife Heather. Franco had previously worked at The Dorchester Hotel in London before moving to Wells, where he and Heather started what would become a local institution.

Today, the business is run by their sons Jonathan and Nick Rossi, who have carried on the family tradition.