Memorial Well

The memorial well, built in 1909 for the Horner family, stands within a pre-existing boundary wall. It is attributed to the design of Sir Edwin Lutyens, with carvings by Eric Gill. The well is constructed of Doulting and rubble stone, exhibiting a Georgian Revival style. The lower part now features a later 20th-century metal tap which replaced the original stone faucet. Water was once channelled to the well via pipes and raised by gravity to the faucet. Rubble walling supports a large, rectangular stone slab set lengthways and flush with the wall, strongly influenced by the style of Classical and Neoclassical chest tombs; the stone itself may be a repurposed antique from a sarcophagus. The front face of the slab bears a central, raised roundel with the inscription "FOR THE USE OF MELLS VILLAGE IN MEMORY OF MARK HORNER 1908”, though the lettering is largely illegible. The panel is decorated with finely carved strigillation and surmounted by three flat-topped stone slabs with classically moulded cornices, although one of these slabs is in two parts. The rear elevation is constructed of stone rubble walling.

The well was commissioned to commemorate Mark Horner, the youngest son of Sir John and Lady Frances Horner, who died of scarlet fever in 1908 at the age of sixteen. It was a gift to the village and provided a source of running water. Original plans for the well survive, and its design is attributed to Sir Edwin Lutyens (1869-1944), a family friend. Lutyens also designed a public shelter as a further memorial to Mark Horner. He, along with Sir Alfred Munnings, designed a bronze equestrian memorial statue in St Andrew's Church dedicated to the family's eldest son, Edward, who died in action in November 1917. The well itself was completed in May 1909 by the celebrated carver and craftsman Eric Gill (1882-1940), who carved the inscription and decoration on the front face.

The memorial well is designated at Grade II for its interesting design, communicating its function and place in history. Additionally, it possesses architectural and historical significance and displays the distinctive sculptural style of Eric Gill. It has group value with other locally significant memorials including a Grade II listed public shelter by Lutyens and a memorial statue in the church.