Visitors and local residents are advised that Devon & Somerset Fire & Rescue Service will be conducting a planned training exercise at Wells Cathedral on Saturday 7 November 2026, between 8.30am and 12.00pm.

The exercise forms part of Wells Cathedral’s ongoing work with emergency services to ensure the continued safety and protection of the Cathedral, its visitors, volunteers, staff and the wider community. By working closely with Devon & Somerset Fire & Rescue Service, we are helping to ensure that robust plans and procedures are in place should an emergency ever occur.

During the exercise, firefighters and partner agencies will practise and assess emergency response procedures in a realistic but controlled environment. As a result, members of the public may notice emergency service vehicles, firefighters, equipment, alarms and simulated emergency activity in and around the Cathedral precincts.

Please do not be alarmed. All emergency activity taking place between 8.30am and 12.00pm on Saturday 7 November will be part of a planned training exercise only and does not represent a real emergency.

Training exercises such as this are an important part of maintaining the preparedness of emergency responders and strengthening coordination between the organisations responsible for protecting important public buildings and the people who use them.

We are grateful to Devon & Somerset Fire & Rescue Service for their continued support and expertise, and we thank our neighbours, visitors and worshippers for their understanding while this important exercise takes place.