TRUST HISTORY
It began
at Wavering Down.
Frankie and Dennis’s home in Cross became a place for open days, music and fundraising. That spirit of welcome lives on in Loxton.
OUR SOMERSET STORY
A home, a charity,
a community.
Dennis Heymer was the first President. Dame June Whitfield followed him, with her friend Dame Joanna Lumley taking on the role after June’s death.
Garden events featured The Wurzels, Tim Pitman, Bjorn Belief and Don the Whistler. Roman evenings and royal celebrations also brought visitors together. The Trust estimates that fundraising between 2003 and 2010 raised around £100,000.
David Walliams and Rafe Spall visited Dennis while researching their television drama. They, and fellow admirer Griff Rhys Jones, became patrons.
Our patrons- 2003 onwards
Open days at Wavering Down
Dennis Heymer and his partner and carer, Chris Byrne, welcomed visitors to the house and gardens. Concerts and other charity events raised funds for local causes.
- 2008
The Trust is established
As the fundraising grew, a charitable Trust was formed. Dennis became its first President. Dame June Whitfield later took over, followed by Dame Joanna Lumley.
- Moving to Loxton
A new community base
After Dennis died and Wavering Down was sold, the Trust developed its work in Loxton. Chris died in September 2017.
- 2026
The Dame June Whitfield Centre
With a café and minibus supporting the community, the Centre opened officially on 21 April 2026.
FROM THE FAMILY ALBUM