Tributes galore were paid to Ross and Karen Young at Saturday's SOUP in Wells Cathedral.

For more than eight years this lovely couple have made sure the city's grant-giving lunch has run smoothly and grown. More than 100 local good causes have benefitted financially and from raised profile.

Ross is standing down due to health challenges and sadly could not be here on Saturday.

First with praise for the Youngs was Toby Wright, the Dean of Wells, who was master of ceremonies.

Bishop of Bath and Wells Michael Beasley also paid tribute and led the whole audience in standing up and raising their hands to thank Ross and Karen for all their work as volunteers with SOUP.

On behalf of Wells Independents, who organise SOUP, Philip Welch presented Karen with a certificate as a token of their appreciation and a £100 voucher for dinner at Il Postino, the new Italian restaurant in Wells Market Place.

Wells SOUP has come a long way since Simon Lawder of Wells Independents got the idea nine years ago from a similar but larger event in Detroit, America's Motor City.

One of the beneficiaries is Children's Hospice South West whose Jan Ellis told Saturday's audience of more than 100 how they had used the money received at the previous SOUP to care for young people with life-limiting conditions.

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Then Saturday's four presenters spoke:

1. Karen Deverell about Wells Community Day which will feature 80 organisations' stalls on 17^thJanuary in the cathedral. Entry is free.

2. Sue Isherwood from Wells and Mendip Museum which tells stories about the history of our city and need money to improve their displays.

3. Aaron Oats of Keward House, a supported housing service for adults living with a mental illness who have low-to-medium needs.

4. Margaret Mitchell Paul Wiltshire and Neville Dyke from Wells Storehouse - Food and Furniture Store. They would like premises to display all the donated furniture.

The audience gave Keward House most votes and they received half the £700 available with the other three sharing the rest.

The final word came from the Dean: "Please spread the word about this wonderful event."

· The next SOUP will take place in Wells Cathedral on Saturday 14^th March, 12.40pm for 1pm start.

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