In the early 19th century the waters from an ancient well in the Consett area, known as hallywell – ‘hally’ being derived from the Saxon word meaning whole as in wellness – was said to have healing powers and if drunk would cure a range of ills. Many well-to-do folk flocked to the spot to take advantage of this healing spa and even though the waters didn’t taste good – Charles Dickens is alleged to have referred to them as poison after his visit in 1839 – many continued to drink up for the good of their health; gathering here to use the bathhouse, refreshment rooms saloon and reading rooms. Eventually, after over 60 years of use, the spa closed and the well was drained, but the stone base still remains today.
However not many are aware of another well in the area, hidden away, which has been discovered recently by local historians who heard of its existence. This well is also alleged to bring health benefits to those who drink from it.
Scientists who conducted tests on the water have revealed that it is safe to drink and tastes remarkably sweet; having a pungent kick to it which brings on a sense of well-being almost immediately. In fact, a group of them were forced to camp overnight beside the well as they felt unable to drive after consuming the waters, describing themselves as feeling ‘decidedly giddy’. An assemblage of experts have been flown in to look for the source of the well bringing specialist equipment to help with their investigations.
It has been noted that the wildlife in the adjacent area were acting somewhat strangely. Foxes were spotted in the daytime lying asleep close to the well with what looked like huge grins on their faces. A family of ducks were seen attempting to swim upstream in the river and deer have been leaning against trees in the woods unable to walk in a straight line. While the experts can’t be sure and have no real evidence to back up their theories they do believe that this has something to do with the well water.
In fact, many other animals have relocated to the area with an influx of birds and creatures not usually seen in this habitat. The animals are apparently all extremely healthy, content and exude a cheerful and carefree demeanour!
Locals have been invited to take part in a survey that will analyse their opinions, perceptions and behaviours as they participate in sampling the waters. Organisers state they have been inundated with applications.
As word is spreading many have visited the well under the cloak of darkness, filling containers to take away for use at home. And because there is no trace of ownership the well is now public property. However, because of its popularity, a security firm has been called in to protect the area and also to implement a policy which restricts the water to 2 litres per person per week in case of overuse.
Caravans, camper vans and tents are arriving daily to the spot and large queues have formed to sample the waters that are making Consett and surrounding areas one of the happiest places in the world to live.
Well, where else boasts an everlasting supply of free Tequila?
Cheers!
Please note: This is a fictional story created for entertainment purposes.
Illustration by Fr John Bagnall
