From Melksham to the mountains of Vancouver! Melksham News reporter says farewell

MELKSHAM News’ senior news reporter, Ben Fenlon, is moving on to pastures new… in the wilds of Canada! 

After over five years reporting on the goings-on in the town and surrounding villages, Ben is moving to Vancouver, on the west coast of Canada, with his husband, Jeff Mills – who is also well-known in the town for his role at Melksham Town Council. 

In his time as news reporter, hundreds of new houses have been built – against the will of many locals; the town had its first LGBT Pride festival; another unsuccessful attempt was made to merge Melksham’s two councils; one heroic cat saved the life of a toddler; the ongoing debate about an A350 bypass heated up; a global pandemic shut down the town; and construction finally started on Melksham’s elusive new community campus. 

“Melksham is certainly not the sleepy town people think it is,” said Ben. “It has been a real eye-opener working for Melksham News, and I have loved every minute of it. Being at the heart of the community you get to meet so many interesting people – and people that are doing such great things for the town. The town is so lucky to have so many people who volunteer their time to support others and improve the area. Canada has a lot to live up to! 

“Whilst I’ve loved getting my teeth into the world of local politics – which has sometimes provided more drama than an episode of Aussie soap Neighbours – the stories I’ve enjoyed the most have been the stories that gave local people a platform to share their story or their cause. I’ll always remember helping Caroline Fielding, who is visually impaired, successfully campaign to get an unsafe bus stop moved on Spa Road; and the campaign with Sandra Gill to get Avon Place cleaned up – which is now looking amazing.” 

Joining the Melksham News team is Jacqui Cadogan in the role of senior news reporter, bringing with her over 20 years’ experience . 

Jacqui said, “I am enjoying settling into my new role, and sad that Ben will be leaving. I’m looking forward to learning more about the people and the town.”