A passionate group of Glastonbury locals is rallying to purchase and preserve a cherished parcel of historic land once owned by the renowned ‘egg man,’ Wilf Peddle, who passed away in June 2024.
The land, located off Selwood Road, is a beautiful, wildlife-rich area dotted with heritage apple and other fruit trees. It holds a historic well linked to the era of Christian King St Edmund, making it a treasured site deeply woven into Glastonbury’s cultural fabric.
Wilf Peddle was a beloved town figure, famous for delivering eggs in all weather from his vintage car. Despite repeated approaches from developers, he steadfastly refused to sell the land, protecting it for many years. Now, a group calling themselves Friends of St Edmund’s Well has formed to continue that legacy by turning the land into a community sanctuary.
Their vision includes establishing a memorial orchard, creating a nature space for local forest schools, community sessions, and other groups—a place where people can connect with nature and reflect on Glastonbury’s rich heritage.
The group, composed of around 50 Windmill Hill residents, has set up a Community Interest Company (CIC) and successfully raised funds toward their goal. Natasha Hopkins, spokesperson for Friends of St Edmund’s Well CIC, expressed cautious optimism: “We are confident in our bid but also a little nervous. Our fundraising efforts have been strong, covering the guide price, and the recent crowdfunder provided an extra boost. Preserving this land, which was so dear to Wilf and his family, is incredibly important.”
The community group aims to create a lasting legacy by protecting the land from inappropriate development. A statement from their crowdfunding page highlights, “By protecting this land from inappropriate development, we aim to create a living legacy that honours the natural, cultural and agricultural heritage of Glastonbury.”
The land is scheduled for auction today through GTH auctioneers, with a guide price set at £50,000. Interest has been high, and Friends of St Edmund’s Well CIC continues to seek donations to strengthen their bid.
Preserving this land not only safeguards local wildlife and natural beauty but also honors the memory of Wilf Peddle, a true Glastonbury legend.