COUNCILLORS are going “round the houses” to help support a singer involved in this year’s Christmas at The Well community sing-song at Rockwell Green.

The Old Well at Rockwell Green – believed to have been originally at the centre of the ancient settlement – will see local vocalist Kiera Chard joined by other performers in putting on a festive show.

Residents of The Well have been putting together events for the local community – including the Christmas sing-song.

Kiera applied for a £250 grant from Wellington Town Council’s policy and finance committee on October 13 to help fund the event.

“We will be singing a mixture of carols and Christmas songs together as a community,” said Kiera. “There are no entry costs and anyone can turn up and sing along in this open air community event.

“After the singing we will be welcomed by the Rockwell Green War Memorial Institute for mince pies and other refreshments.”

But councillors were left scratching their heads as although they wanted to support Kiera, the council policy states that grants cannot be awarded to individuals.

Cllr John Thorne, who said he wanted to support the event, said: “Kiera is a semi-professional singer but she is an individual and we can’t pay individuals.”

Cllr Andy Govier added: “I would like to support the event, but I have similar reservations about supporting an individual.

“I’m sure our office staff could work something out where we can support this event.”

Cllr Chris Penk said: “What they (Christmas at The Well) do as a group is phenomenal.”

Cllr Keith Wheatley said: “We should look at the process of how we can support small projects rather than having to go round the houses to find a way of supporting them.”

Councillors agreed to support the Christmas at The Well up to a cost of £150.