The Spark Magazine July/August Issue

Spark THE

M AGA Z I N E

The family behind Horrell & Horrell Photography © Jesse Wild

Issue sponsored by

July/August 2024 Issue 2 Supporting the Village of Sparkford Including the hamlets of Weston Bampfylde & Little Weston, Somerset

KIN

N AI

B R G

SÉ

S

CID

E ORGA NIC S RS E & PR

KING BRAIN ORGANIC CIDERS AND ORGANIC PRESSÉS

Little Weston Farm, BA22 7HP www.kingbraindrinks.co.uk Tel: 07905 367614

2022

Welcome to the July/August Edition of The Spark Magazine 2024 Issue 2

T

hank you to everyone who has commented on the launch issue of The Spark Magazine (May/ June Issue 2024).

In this issue, we are including an article written by Julie Baber, who owns a sustainable farm in Pensford, Somerset. Also a profile of a world athlete, Gemma Ruegg, who is a professional boxer!

Our front cover is sponsored by Jules & Steve of Horrell & Horrell, who run dining experiences for up to 30 people in their beautiful barn in Sparkford.

The Winner of our launch issue (May/June 2024) Sudoku competition is Cherry Toop, South Cadbury, and she has won a delicious dinner for 2 at The White Post, Rimpton.

Many Congratulations!

GET IN TOUCH Please get in touch if you have any events that you would like us to publish in the September/October 2024 issue – we will need all contributions and advertisements by the beginning of August and artwork (in high resolution 300dpi) by the 14th August. jpbristowbristow@gmail.com T: 01963 361753

We are only able to publish The Spark Magazine due to the support of our advertisers and we would really like to thank them all.

Also many thanks to Victoria Osborne (Graphic Designer) and Wincanton Print.

Distribution: The Spark was delivered to you by: Jane Notley, Andy & Anne Voysey, Sharon Bradford, Ann Purdy, Helen Skinner, Victoria Rogers, Peter Bristow & George & Jill Lawson.

If you too could help us deliver The Spark Magazine, please contact: Victoria Rogers who is co-ordinating the distribution - 01963 440475.

Many thanks!

July/August 2024 T H E Spark T M A G A Z I N E 3

S PA R K F O R D PA R I S H C O U N C I L Chairman (Elected 8 May 2024):

Clerk:

Mr Ken Flood kflood1612@hotmail.com 07484 182390

Mrs Lisa Davis sparkford.clerk@gmail.com

Vice Chairman (Elected 3 June 2024): Mr Trevor Tuck trevorctuck@gmail.com

Councillors: Mr David Hazel davidhazel80@btinternet.com

Mr Andrew Quick Andrew.quick2020@gmail.com

Mr Duke Westwood duke.sd.westwood@gmail.com Mr Richard Squires Richardsquires51@gmail.com Mr Larry Piper

larry.piper@pipertrimmers.co.uk

www.sparkford.org

4 T H E Spark T M A G A Z I N E July/August 2024

Somerset Councillors: Mr Henry Hobhouse henry.hobhouse@southsomerset.gov.uk 07970 867108 Mr Kevin Messenger kevin.messenger@somerset.gov.uk 07969 150646

U S E F U L C O N TAC T S Anne Tuck (Beavers)

07538 502812

Caz (Playing Field)

07841 470237

Jon King-Brain (Cricket)

0791 449 4330

Victoria Rogers (Hall) Karen (Playing Field)

01963 440475 07506 250359

Kerry Pike 01963 441595 (Cam Vale Church) (10-2 Tuesdays & Fridays)

What’s on at the Sparkford Village Hall Mondays 9am-12pm ‘O’ Gauge Trains Would welcome new members!

Contact: Bob Harris 01963 440167 Parish Council Meetings: 1st Monday of every month Monday & Tuesday Evenings (Term time) Beavers / Cubs / Scouts

Fridays Bingo Every 2nd Friday of the month

Wednesdays Art 2pm – 4pm Contact: George Lawson 01963 440551

Various days

Jaya Jaks Yoga 6.30pm – 7.30pm Contact: jayajaks21@gmail.com 07974 681422

Fitness & Boxing Please contact: Gemma Ruegg 0788 031 1969

Thursdays Explorers

Somerset Mobile Library Village Hall Carpark

4 July 7am-10pm

MAKE A BOOKING If you would like to book the hall (£4 per Hour) or need further information, please contact Victoria Rogers, Bookings Secretary on 01963 440475 Please note that if you are having a party or event where you need some wine glasses, cutlery, crockery a and maybe even tables, we can hire them out to you for a small donation.

July/August 2024 T H E Spark T M A G A Z I N E 5

MAP OF PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT

TH

E AV

EN

UE

Hedg

01

2B AS 880 80 2B .40 m 2 AS 880 80 .40 m2

CHER RY PIE

02

02

36

36

02

36 05

04

BENNETT CLOSE

V-B1 V-B2 V-B3 V-B4 01

01

erow

LANE

Serv ice Area

Substation

05

35

3B 101 8 AS 94 3B5P .6m

35 35

V5

2

04

03

33

9m

61.5

33

34

14

08 08

14

09

09

4B 1282 AS 124.3 m2

8 152 2 4B AS .7m 144

Bung2B 819 OPP 76.1m 2

Sing Gara le ge

8 152 P 4B OP 2 .7m 144

30

09

10

20

3B Bung 1141 106.0 AS 0m 2 26

3B 1018 AS 3B5P 94.6 m2

3B Bung 1141 106.0 AS 0m 2

AS 3B5P 94.6 m2

3B 1018

19

21

21

v10

17

18

18

v8

20

25

20

19

19

CHERRY PIE LANE, SPARKFORD PROPOSED SITE LAYOUT

Application boundary

Site Area:

1.37 ha = 3.3 acres

Additional land controlled by the applicant to be sold back to the Parish

House Type Ref:

No.

Individual Sqm Individual Sqft

2B 880: 2B 819 Bu: 2B 663: 3B 859: 3B 912: 3B 1018: 3B 1141Bu: 4B 1282: 4B 1528:

2 units 2 units 3 units 6 units 1 unit 1o unit 4 unit 4 unit 4 unit ________ 36 units

[81.7] [76.1] [61.5] [81.0] [90.0] [94.6] [106.8] [124.0] [144.7]

TOTAL:

27

26

26

25 25

18

v9

Accommodation schedule

26

25 AS 3B5P 94.6 m2

Sing Gara le ge

27

17

3B 1018

3B 859 AS 79.8 0m 2

v11

NOTES:

3B Bung 1141 106.0 AS 0m 2

8 152 P 4B OP 2 .7m 144

4B 1282 AS 124.3 m2

8 152 2 4B AS .7m 144

27

18

AS 3B5P 94.6 m2

22

21

21

3B 1018

erow

Serv

ice Area

Dou Gara ble ge

Hedg

16

17

3B 859 AS 79.8 0m 2

28

27

Dou Gara ble ge

22

28

Sing Gara le ge

23

29

28 28

16

22

22

11

12

Sing Gara le ge

23

3B Bung 1141 106.0 AS 0m 2

11

12

Sing Gara le ge

le ub e Do rag Ga

24

11

12

16

16 23

23

3B 859 AS 79.8 0m 2

29 29

4B 1282 AS 124.3 m2

le ub e Do rag Ga

15

24

3B 859 AS 79.8 0m 2

4B 1282 AS 124.3 m2

11

13

30

29 10

13

24

Sing Gara le ge

v6

V7

Sing Gara le ge

gle e Sin rag Ga

13

12

24

32

30

30

09

10

10

15

31

08 08

13

15

32

31

2B 819 Bung 76.1m 2AS

3B 912 AS 84.7 2m 2

07

Sing Gara le ge

07 14

15

33

34

07

06

le ub e Do rag Ga

06

2

07

Sin Ga gle rag e

2

663 14

3B 101 8 AS 94 3B5P .6m

2

Sin Ga gle rag e

05

31

3B 101 8 AS 94 3B5P .6m

06

06

04

32

3B 101 8 AS 94 3B5P .6m 2

2B AS 663 61.5 9m 2 AS2B 663 61.5 9m 2 AS2B

erow

3B 101 8 AS 94 3B5P .6m 2

03

3B AS 859 79.

3B 80 m 2 AS 859 79.

80 m2

Serv ice Area

03

Hedg

34

3B 101 8 AS 94 3B5P .6m 2

Existing Gate

Total Sqm

Total Sqft

[880] [819] [663] [871] [968] [1018] [1150] [1334] [1558]

163.4 152.2 184.5 486 90.0 946 427.2 496 578.8

1758.8 1638.2 1985.9 5231.2 968.7 10182.7 4598.3 5338.9 6230.1

Total Areas

3524.1

37932.8

1:250@A1

190811 L 02 01

G JH / MC FEB 2020

Hems House, 84 Longbrook Street, Exeter, Devon, EX4 6AP T: 01392 368866 W: www.cliftonemerydesign.co.uk M: mail@cliftonemerydesign.co.uk

PLANNING CONTRACTORS MUST CHECK ALL DIMENSIONS ON SITE. ONLY FIGURED DIMENSIONS ARE TO BE WORKED FROM. C THIS DRAWING IS COPYRIGHT.

S c h e d u le o f A r e a s :

60

Draft 6 T H E Spark T M A G A Z I N E July/August 2024

S PA R K F O R D PA R I S H C O U N C I L P L A N N I N G A P P L I C A T I O N S

Message from Mr Ken Flood, Chairman, Parish Council (elected on 8 May 2024) The image opposite is of the draft Plan as presented by LVA at the Parish Council meeting on 8th May 2024 The plan shows that they intend to apply for permission to build 60 new houses with the entrance through the existing Cherry Blossom Way road.

They have stated In addition to the current width of Cherry Blossom Way we have an ability to widen the road by up to 0.5m, although at this stage we don’t consider this to be necessary. Also, Cherry Pie Lane is capable of being used as a secondary access, with use restricted to emergency vehicles only.

Going Forward We indicated that the presentation of the Plan to the Parish meeting was the first step in the process. We anticipate making a submission within the next week for formal pre-application dialogue with Somerset Council’s planning team.

In the background, we will be continuing to prepare our evidence base and working with other consultees on aspects of any submission. We anticipate that we would look to hold a public consultation event within the village during the latter half of June or the early part of July 2024. We would then anticipate a submission before the end of August 2024.

Please watch the Parish Website and other social media for any further updates.

(LVA is an investor and planning project manager in UK land and property.

They focus on forming responsible alliances with landowners and all other stakeholders, where all parties’ interests are mutually aligned, to create developments which add value to local communities).

July/August 2024 T H E Spark T M A G A Z I N E 7

L AT E S T P L A N N I N G A P P L I C AT I O N 24/00940/FUL | Erection of a single storey building to be used as welcome/meeting area at entrance to business park. Land East Of Entrance To Vantage Park Goodwood Drive Sparkford https://publicaccess.southsomerset.gov.uk/online-applications/applicationDetails. do?keyVal=SBXMRKOWIA900&activeTab=summary 19/01123/FUL Erection of seven dwellings and conversion of barn to dwelling. Land Rear Of Sparkford Inn High Street Sparkford 19/01100/LBC Internal and external alterations to barn to convert to dwelling. Sparkford Inn High Street Sparkford 24/00891/FUL | Application Type: Full Application | Construction of new unit (use class E, B2 and B8) | Land To South West Of Unit 1 Goodwood Drive Sparkford Yeovil Somerset Applicant: Mr LA & RW Piper

H OW T O C O M M E N T O N A P L A N N I N G A P P L I C AT I O N Search for: www.somerset.gov.uk and scroll down to and click on ‘Planning, buildings and land’ then scroll down and click on ‘View and Comment on a Planning Application’.

Scroll down and click on ‘South Somerset’ and search for planning applications. Leave status as ‘All’ and enter reference no. ie. 22/01598/OUT. Scroll down and click on comments and click on ‘make a comment’. Now add your name and address details and all starred boxes and make your comment in the box below.

Then click ‘submit’ or ‘submit and register’ if you want to be kept informed on the progress of this planning application.

P U B L I C N O T I C E S - S PA R K F O R D PA R I S H C O U N C I L Neighbourhood Watch –

we are looking to re-instate the Neighbourhood Watch scheme. If you would like to get involved then please contact the Parish Clerk.

Speedwatch – we are

looking for volunteers to get involved with Speedwatch in the Parish.

If you are interested then please contact the Parish Clerk.

Dog fouling - please

help keep our village clean, tidy and safe by clearing up after your dogs.

Warm Hubs – Do you have

a few hours to spare each week or month? Would you like to help people who may be struggling with the cost of living crisis? Do you like to meet new people? If you answer yes to all these questions then please contact the Parish Clerk to learn more about how you could help with a Village Café/Warm Hub.

Community events – are you holding an event in Sparkford? Please send the details to the Parish Clerk so that it can be promoted on the parish website and Community Facebook page.

8 T H E Spark T M A G A Z I N E July/August 2024

Daisy Woods – please note that in the interests of safety and to protect the habitat Daisy Woods has been closed temporarily to allow the area to recover following recent bad weather.

PA R I S H C L E R K Lisa Davis sparkford.clerk@gmail.com

Forthcoming events July/August Sparkford (S), Queen Camel (QC), West Camel (WC), North Cadbury (NC) Marston Magna (MM), Castle Cary (CC), Wincanton (W) QC S QC QC W CC

2 July – Open Pathway Retreat Centre – Meditation Class – 7-8pm

4 July – General Election – Village Hall 7am – 10pm

5 July - weekly – Open Pathway Retreat Centre – Yoga – 9.30 – 11am 5 July - Countess Gytha Primary School Summer Fayre – 3.30pm 5 July – The Balsam Centre AGM, Wincanton – 2.30pm – 4.30pm 6 July – Hand-tied Arrangements Workshop with Tracy Nadin

Flowers at Home, Castle Cary, Somerset – 01963 350525 - £40 W

6 July – Table Top Sale, The Balsam Centre – 10am – 2pm

QC

6/7 July – Open Pathway – Labyrinth Retreat – 10am - 5pm - details being provided by Christy 01935 850266

WC

7 July – Davis Hall Theatre & Workshop – 5-7pm

QC WC QC NC WC W QC QC W

9 July – Open Pathway to Peace – Sound Bath – 6.45pm

12 July – Davis Hall – Light Opera ‘Goodbye Mr Chips’ 7pm 16 July – Open Pathway – Meditation Class – 7-8pm

17 July - 2pm - Local Garden visits followed by cream tea in the village hall, Gardening Club 26 July – Davis Hall – Film ‘The Lesson’ 7pm

27 July – Repair Café – 10am – 12.30pm – The Balsam Centre

30 July – Open Pathway Retreat Centre – Meditation Class 7-8pm

3 August – Gardening Club Summer Show – Memorial Hall

3 August – Family Pride Day – 10.30am – 2.30pm – The Balsam Centre

S

8 August – Horrell & Horrell Supper at Off-Grid Organics 7-10pm (15 August back-up date if the forecast is wet. Guests will be advised on the 5 August if the date needs to be changed) – See advertisement on Pages 12 & 13

NC

14 August – 11am Visit to Wraxall Vineyard to include wine tastings. (£20) Gardening Club

QC WC QC W WC

17/18 August – Open Pathway – Exploring the Invisible Dimension 10am-5pm 23 August – Davis Hall – Film ‘Wicked Little Letters’ 7pm 24/25 August – Open Pathway – Mediation 10-5pm

31 August - Repair Café – 10am – 12.30pm – The Balsam Centre

September 2024 - St Michael’s Scottish Country Dancing Club – Davis Hall – New beginners class - 4 Thursdays in September - 7pm – 7.30pm - £2 per session www.stmichaelsscdclub.org contact Elspeth - Elspeth_a_wright@hotmail.com 07972 125617

The Balsam Centre, Balsam Park, Wincanton BA9 9HB p: 01963 31842 | For details of weekly classes and activities taking place at The Balsam Centre, please visit www.balsamcentre.org.uk/timetable July/August 2024 T H E Spark T M A G A Z I N E 9

Summer shade solutions

S

ummer has finally arrived and at Lizzie Price Shading Solutions we can enhance your outdoor living areas with glass or polycarbonate roofed Verandas as well as folding arm motorised or manual Awnings. They offer shaded areas on patios or to shade the sun’s rays from entering your home, substantially reducing solar gain.

External roller blinds provide protection from the sun’s rays and are one of the most effective way

of reducing solar gain into your home. Ideal on large windows and doors.

Our huge range of internal blinds to provide shade, privacy and blackout to your rooms.

We offer a complete professional service from our home visit

to installation of your new Blinds, Plantation Shutters, Awnings, Verandas and so much more...

LIZZIE PRICE

Visit our website for more details by scanning the QR code or www.lizziepriceshadingsolutions.co.uk SHADING SOLUTIONS

For site survey and no obligation quotation contact us on enquiries@lizziepriceshadingsolutions.co.uk or phone 07879 992000

LIZZIE PRICE SHADING SOLUTIONS

Blinds, Shutters, Awnings, and so much more...

Call us on 07879 992000 or visit www.lizziepriceshadingsolutions.co.uk Based in North Cadbury - Covering Somerset, Dorset & Wiltshire

10 T H E Spark T M A G A Z I N E July/August 2024

N E I L P I E R C Y P L A S T E R I N G Modern & Traditional

N E I L P I E R C Y P L A S T E R I N G Modern & Traditional

All aspects of Modern and Traditional Renovation & Plasterwork Plastering•Limework •Floor Screeding Plumbing • Electrics • Carpentry Groundworks • Local Stone Masonry

Wallpapering & Mural Specialist, General Painting & Decorating

Always happy to provide helpful advice and a free no obligation quotation.

Somerton Castle Cary Sherborne T: 01963 240185 or M: 07974185923 E:office@modernandtraditional.co.uk

Mobile: 07832 290148

www.modernandtraditional.co.uk

FOOD-MARKET, BUTCHERY, CHEESE COUNTER, RESTAURANT, FOOD TO GO, MILK REFILL, BOTTLE STORE, GIFTING, EV CHARGING & DOG JOG. B CORP. OPENING HOURS: 8AM TILL 6PM. 7 DAYS A WEEK. At Teals restaurant, our menu changes daily to make the most of the produce around us. You’ll find thoughtfully sourced ingredients from the best makers, bakers and farmers in our region, crafted into fresh, flavoursome and nourishing meals throughout the day. We work directly with as many small businesses as we can in order to put money right into the hands of the people who share their harvest with us. And we offer it to you, with all the skills, warmth and experience we have, in order to bring you the best of everything Somerset has to offer, whether you are making a brief stop for a coffee, or have time to spend with us.

Book a table today at www.teals.co.uk

1 ORCHARD LANE, SOUTH CADBURY, YEOVIL, BA22 7FS

July/August 2024 T H E Spark T M A G A Z I N E 11

W

e are delighted to be writing for The Spark and wanted to use this first diary entry to introduce ourselves to those of you in the village who do not already know us. Horrell & Horrell is a family enterprise, led by us, Jules & Steve Horrell. Our culinary journey includes some of Somerset’s most renowned restaurants including At the Chapel and Roth Bar & Grill, where we built a profile for exceptional hospitality, innovative events, and cooking over fire. Working alongside our Lauren our daughter, and son in law Cosmo, we are a small family business that 12 T H E Spark T M A G A Z I N E July/August 2024

welcomes 30 guests, 4 days a week to a long sharing table, in an old cow barn and kitchen garden at our home here in Sparkford, where we have lived for the last 8 years. There is no menu – we use the produce reared, grown, and gathered on the land around us, so you dine on the very best food that week has to offer.

If we had to describe Horrell & Horrell, it’s a bit like going to a friend place for dinner, where you bring a bottle, relax, enjoy the food, and let conversation flow – whilst we take care of everything else’. Since opening in July 2023, we have been listed as one

“

Since opening in July 2023, we have been listed as one of the best dining experiences in the UK...”

of the best dining experiences in the UK by Conde Nast, Times Luxx, The Guardian, The Telegraph, and National Geographic, and we are always delighted to welcome so many local people to our table.

Horrell & Horrell is open Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings, and on Sunday for lunch. There are 30 spaces at the table, and tickets can be purchased via the website. www.horrellandhorrell.co.uk Tickets start from £55 pp for dinner, £65 pp to include a seasonal cheese course, or £50 pp for Sunday lunch. The barn is also available for private hire – perfect for a family celebration, or a group of friends.

Photography ©Jesse Wild

Join us for a Summer Supper at Offgrid Organics Thursday 8th August We are relocating for one night only to Offgrid Organics in Sparkford. Working in collaboration with Camilla Mays, who runs a thriving market garden, growing an abundance of fresh seasonal produce for our table throughout the year.

Guests will dine al fresco on a long table seating 50 guests surrounded by the seasonal crops and wild flowers. You will be greeted with a garden spritz, before feasting on a supper picked from the garden and cooked over fire. Drinks as always are BYO. To reserve a space, please visit at www.horrellandhorrell.co.uk Sparkford, Somerset, BA22 7LA

July/August 2024 T H E Spark T M A G A Z I N E 13

Rewilding Julie Baber

W

hat do you think of when you hear the word “rewilding”?

An industrialised agricultural landscape returned to wild nature, uncorrupted by human hands? The welcome re-introduction of “missing” species, such as beavers and, whisper it, wolves? Or do you fear the loss of farmland and food production under an unsightly forest of plastic tree guards that represent corporate greenwashing at its worst?

“Rewilding” is an emotive word that is used and abused to illustrate a wide range of fantasies and fears.

As a livestock farmer, and native of a Somerset village that has seen enormous changes in my lifetime, I am as well placed as anyone to consider the apparent conflicts between nature and food security.

14 T H E Spark T M A G A Z I N E July/August 2024

My farm is small, traditional and as chemical free as I can currently reasonably make it. I grew up in the 1960s and 70s, a time before my village had become a place of the picturesque country residence of the urban commuter, but also at the start of the industrialisation of farming in our area. Many farms like mine would be swallowed up by the advance of the agrichemical companies and giant agricultural machines.

Here in the west, nature has fared better than in the vast pesticide-soaked arable fields to the east, but enough damage has been done to justify, in the minds of some casual observers, the “restoration” that only they apparently can achieve. This in turn allows large corporations to continue their climate

ABOUT JULIE Julie Baber runs her farm singlehandedly and keeps around 150 traditional breed sheep, currently including Black Welsh Mountain, Portlands and Castlemilks. She does small flock shearing and sells fleece, yarn and woollen products. She is also a freelance writer for The Sustainable Food Trust and a longer article about rewilding can be found on the Sustainable Food Trust website: www.sustainablefoodtrust.org For further information: pigsmoor@gmail.com

damaging activities by funding often illthought-out tree planting schemes and even worse “rewilding” ventures.

Meanwhile, nature does what nature has always done, constantly reinvents and restores itself as it chooses. So, a reintroduced pine marten is just as likely to eat a crofter’s chicken as a grey squirrel, a sea eagle is just as likely to eat a lamb as a fish, and a family of beavers is just as likely to set up home behind ASDA at Frome as in the sort of landscape a “re-wilder” might desire for it.

That, to me, is our best hope. Nature doesn’t need a human with a PHD to decide how and where “rewilding” should occur.

It just needs us to remember that we cannot live without it. It just needs us to shove up a bit to let the wild back in, to our farmland and our lives.

July/August 2024 T H E Spark T M A G A Z I N E 15

Need a helping hand with your insurer after a property damage claim?

Alex Thoemmes, Concept Claim Solutions (Bristol)

F

loods, earthquakes, fire… no it is not the end of days, but just a regular year for property owners here in the UK. You still have to be unlucky for one of these to impact you, although there are many more mundane events that can cause serious property damage. But once you start engaging with your insurer, you may realise just how far the bad luck can run!

Sadly, when flooding, leaks, fires and other structural damage to 16 T H E Spark T M A G A Z I N E July/August 2024

buildings occur, dealing with the initial emergency is just the first of many hurdles you face when trying to return to normality. Obtaining a decent settlement from the insurance may be even more trying than the disaster, whilst dealing with contractors is invariably arduous.

My company represents a littleknown, but highly effective alternative way forward. We are a claims management firm which take on the administrative burden of dealing with both the insurers and contractors.

Because we are highly experienced at both, we will obtain a better outcome for you, whilst relieving you of as much stress as possible. Better still, we won’t cost you a penny extra.

Unsurprisingly, insurance companies will almost always try to limit their exposure – and often they go too far. Claimants are either too intimidated, or don’t know any better, to challenge them. We stand up for a fair payout on your behalf; and if you

“

...we will obtain a better outcome for you, whilst relieving you of as much stress as possible.”

use our expert builders to perform the repairs (saving you the job of sourcing them yourself), the insurance payout will cover all our costs.

We can get involved at any point during a claim, so please tell me about your situation on 0117 463 3265 or by emailing bristol@concept-solutions.co.uk – my advice is free. Ask me also about Build Back Better if flooding is your issue; it is a special policy feature which may unlock £10,000 for flood defence measures for your property.

July/August 2024 T H E Spark T M A G A Z I N E 17

Mattia Diner

The Great American Dining Experience in Sparkford

Capture the spirit of yesterday by taking a step back in time to 1950’s America with Freddy and Andrea Mattia in one of their authentic American Diners. Combining their passion for good food, classic music and the culture of rock ‘n’ roll 50’s, take a virtual trip across the Atlantic and escape from everyday life to enjoy one of their famous milkshakes or sought after homemade burgers in a nostalgic American paradise.

The perfect place to meet, eat, drink, have fun and appreciate all things vintage!

A303 Yeovil, BA22 7PH 01935 851715 www.mattiadiner.co.uk Image by marymarkevich on Freepik

SCOUTS (101/2 - 14 Years) Tues. 7.15-9pm Scott Austin asl@sparkfordscouts.org.uk

BEAVERS (6-8 Years) Tues. 6pm-/pm Anne Tuck bskktsparkfordscouts.org.uk

CUBS (8 - 10¹/² Years) Mon 6.30-8pm Lucia Atkinson call@sparkfordscouts.org.uk

EXPLORER SCOUTS (14-18 Years) Alternative Thurs.

Kevin Davis si@sparkfordscouts.org.uk

F O R F U R T H E R I N F O R M AT I O N Please contact Anne Tuck on 07538 502812 | www.sparkfordscouts.org.uk

July/August 2024 T H E Spark T M A G A Z I N E 19

Gemma Ruegg Fitness & Boxing Instructor - Sparkford

G

emma took up martial arts as a child encouraged by her father. As a teenager she developed a serious mental health condition which affected her whole life for many years. She struggled with alcohol addiction. At the age of 27 she got back into martial arts and her mental health improved significantly.

She began fighting professionally as a mixed martial arts fighter within a year. When she was 35, she was signed by a boxing manager and became a professional boxer.

She has her own female fitness clothing company and has re20 T H E Spark T M A G A Z I N E July/August 2024

trained to become a fitness instructor and England boxing coach.

She moved to Sparkford two and a half years ago with her husband and 5 of their children and has recently opened a gym in Milborne Port.

Gemma offers classes and 1-2-1 training in both Milborne Port and in the Village Hall, Sparkford. She has a children’s boxing class, adults boxing fitness class and train people on a 1-21 basis in accordance to their goals.

Contact: 0788 031 1969

Combat Dollies Women’s Fitness and Gym wear for all your workouts. Unique designs at affordable prices! Fast delivery. Sizes XS - 6XL. Designed and worn by female athletes.

Price Range £10-40 across the range. www.combatdollies.co.uk July/August 2024 T H E Spark T M A G A Z I N E 21

Health & Wellbeing Walks Queen Camel: Fridays at 10.00am OPEN TO ALL!

W

e leave the Old School car park at 10.00am (when the church bells have chimed) each Friday and walk for about an hour and a half. A chance to meet people, learn some local byways and enjoy the fresh air and gentle exercise. The walks are for fun and everyone is welcome; no obligations, no fees, just wear suitable footwear and come along.

For further details, please visit our site: www.sasp.co.uk/health-walks e: walks@sasp.co.uk Office No. 01823 653998

22 T H E Spark T M A G A Z I N E July/August 2024

An alternative gentle walk from Queen Camel Medical Centre starting soon with Health Coach Liz. Contact the health coaches for more details.

The walk will be under 1 mile, flat ground, at a gentle pace. It will be ideal for those new to walking or living with health conditions that impact fitness or mobility.

QUEEN CAMEL BOWLS CLUB

PHIL NICHOLLS Electrical Contracting Services The Recreation Ground, off Englands Lane, Queen Camel, Yeovil, BA22 7NN Tuesday Evenings are for Lawn Bowls at Queen Camel Bowls Club.

A Coach is available to help both those wishing to try for the first time, and those who would like some guidance on how to improve their game.

The evenings start at 5:45pm so why not come along to say hello and meet some new friends.

To find out some more please email queencamelbowlsclub@gmail.com or call Sally on 07514 485809

For all your electrical needs from an extra socket to a complete rewire 18th Edition Qualified

Mobile:

07767 863625 philnicholls539@yahoo.co.uk

Crafting quality timber buildings and gates since 1912 Sparkford, Yeovil, Somerset BA22 7LH Tel: (01963) 440414 | Email: info@sparkford.com | @sparkfordtimber | www.sparkford.com

July/August 2024 T H E Spark T M A G A Z I N E 23

Shop Local artwork

T

his ‘Shop Local’ sign on the A303 bank by the roundabout at Sparkford has been designed by Zac Greening who is a local eco artist.

The piece was originally commissioned by Somerset Council a few years ago as part of Wincanton’s regeneration programme.

“For years I have always driven passed Sparkford bank and have wanted to install something on it but never had the right piece....until SHOP LOCAL”, says Zac. The longer term plan is to use that space as a venue to display other artworks and installations which are themed around sustainability”.

24 T H E Spark T M A G A Z I N E July/August 2024

These huge metal ‘buttons’ sparkle in the sun. and are lit up at night. It is a very poignant message and you can see more of his work at https://zacgreening.co.uk/

A303 Sparkford to Ilchester dualling scheme Project Newsletter June 2024

A

s we move into the final stages of the scheme, we will use this newsletter to keep you up to date with news from the project team, imporant dates, milestones, and updates about what we’re doing in the local community.

F O R M O R E I N F O R M AT I O N Please visit: www.nationalhighways.co.uk/our-roads/south-west/a303-sparkford-to-Ilchester July/August 2024 T H E Spark T M A G A Z I N E 25

Jaya Jaks Yoga Classes Private, Corporate & Group Classes Retreats & Well-being My style of teaching is playful and light-hearted, focusing on slow, strong and intentional movements, with precision and attentive alignment.

This practice builds strength, stability and balance, which, in turn, promotes a greater sense of stillness, calm and well-being.

My aim is to challenge students out of their comfort zones and encourage them to tiptoe over their edge and step beyond. On the other side lies growth, freedom and unlimited possibilities.

Classes are £60 for 6 consecutive weeks or £12 drop in ALL LEVELS WELCOME Join us in The Sparkford Village Hall Wednesdays 6.30pm – 7.30pm Jayajaks21@gmail.com

www.jayajaks.com

07974 681422

‘To tread the path of truth, we must become courageous like lions.’

26 T H E Spark T M A G A Z I N E July/August 2024

Cam Vale Tuesday Group Queen Camel Memorial Hall Ladies! – if you are free on the first Tuesday of the month, then why not come and join our friendly group! We start at 10am – noon and enjoy coffee/tea & biscuits and then at 10.30 we have interesting talks from a variety of speakers. New members and visitors are very welcome.

Family run since 2010 Event Catering for all occasions.

Membership for 2024/2025 - £20 First visit as a guest £2 Members: £1.50 including raffle & refreshments Speaker 2 July: Jenny Barham – How to make celebration garlands.

Speaker 6 August: 12 noon Meeting for Poughman’s lunch £5 + Table Top Sale.

Funeral Wakes, Anniversaries, Weddings, Drinks Parties

contact@dorsetdelightscatering.co.uk

For further information please contact Marion Chapman at 01963 22074

07783 928532 www.dorsetdelightscatering.co.uk

The Village Stores Bob and Jackie New welcome you!

An extensive range of goods and services available •

Fresh meat from BARCLAY BUTCHERS of Wincanton.

Daily delivery of a selection of meats and your orders taken.

•

Selected local farm cheese including MONTGOMERY’S world famous Farmhouse Cheddar

•

Frozen meals from OLIVE’S KITCHEN

•

MOORES and BORDER biscuits in stock

•

LONGMAN”S Farmhouse Butter

•

Off Licence, including locally made Cider

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

•

Fresh BREAD, PASTRIES & PIES baked on the premises

•

Dry Cleaning with PUFFINS of Yeovil

8am-5.30pm Monday-Friday

•

Groceries – Fruit & Vegetables & Milk

8am-1pm Saturday

•

Pet foods & household goods

9am-1pm Sunday

•

Hot drinks available

•

Colour/Black & White Photocopying – Faxing – Laminating

The Village Stores, North Cadbury BA22 7DW Tel: 01963 440201

AND MUCH MORE...

July/August 2024 T H E Spark T M A G A Z I N E 27

Summer Lawn Care with Sherborne Turf

A

s this year has been particularly rainy, you may notice a lot of growth in your garden and lawn as we head into summer. To keep your lawn green and happy, try to cut little and often, keeping your mower at a higher level so as not to stress the grass and prevent it drying out in hot weather.

If the summer is dry and you’d like a green lawn, water well at least once a week – but only early in the morning or later in the evening to prevent scorching. But please remember, if you want to reduce you water usage, your lawn will recover when the weather cools and it starts raining again.

A common problem to watch out for is Red Thread Disease – which will look like small pinkish-red strands of grass.

The solution is a nitrogen rich fertiliser (applied very carefully if the weather is hot and watered in well).

For advice, please contact us on 01935 850388 or message us online, we’re always happy to help.

28 T H E Spark T M A G A Z I N E July/August 2024

T H E S I X C H U R C H E S O F C A M VA L E SERVICES FOR THE MONTH OF JULY 2024 Sunday 7 July

Queen Camel Corton Denham West Camel

9.30 am 10.00 am 4.00 pm

All Age Service Morning Prayer Tea @ Four United Service

Sunday 14 July

West Camel Weston Bampfylde Sutton Montis West Camel

9.30 am 10.00 am 10.00 am 6.00 pm

BCP Holy Communion Morning Prayer Morning Prayer Methodist Service

Sunday 21 July

Queen Camel Sparkford West Camel West Camel

9.30 am 9.30 am 10.00 am 6.00 pm

CW Holy Communion BCP Holy Communion Lego Service Methodist Service

10.00 am 6.00 pm

Together @ 10 Methodist Service

Sunday 28 July Corton Denham West Camel

From the Registers: Weddings 29th June – Guy Loader & Charlotte Davis, Holy Trinity Sutton Montis Funerals / Memorial Services 4th June – John William Kerton, Holy Trinity Sutton Montis 10th June – Nigel Gordon Westcott (Bill), St Mary Magdalene, Sparkford 18th June – Jeremy John Howard, St Barnabas Queen Camel

H A R O L D F. M I L E S F U N E R A L D I R E C T O R FA M I LY R U N B U S I N E S S All arrangements made 24-Hour service Private Chapel of Rest Pre-paid Funeral Plans

Winston Cottage South Cadbury Tel: 01963 440367

July/August 2024 T H E Spark T M A G A Z I N E 29

T H E S I X C H U R C H E S O F C A M VA L E SERVICES FOR THE MONTH OF AUGUST 2024 Thursday 1 August

Queen Camel

7.00 pm

Celebration for a New Ministry

Sunday 4 August

Queen Camel Corton Denham West Camel

9.30 am 10.00 am 4.00 pm

All Age Service Morning Prayer Tea @ Four United Service

Sunday 11 August

West Camel Weston Bampfylde Sutton Montis West Camel

9.30 am 10.00 am 10.00 am 6.00 pm

BCP Holy Communion CW Holy Communion Morning Prayer Methodist Service

Sunday 18 August

Queen Camel West Camel

9.30 am 6.00 pm

BCP Holy Communion Methodist Service

Sunday 25 August

Sparkford West Camel

10.00 am 6.00 pm

Together @ 10 Methodist Service

St Mary Magdalene

A

nd a very Happy July to you all. As many will know we have been without a vicar for some time which has been a challenge for the 6 churches (Sparkford, Queen Camel, West Camel, Sutton Montis, Western Bampfylde and Corton Denham) making up the Benefice of Cam Vale.

On the 1st August the Rev Caroline Walker will become our new minister. She will be welcomed into the Benefice at a special licensing service in Queen Camel on the 1st August.

In the meantime, the Church here in Sparkford has seen a fresh Parochial Church Council (PCC) formed in April.

Andy Voysey who had been leading the PCC in the absence of a vicar, who always chairs the PCC, has now stood down.

Stuart Cattermull has taken over his leadership role.

At the time of going to print the services planned for Sparkford are as follows: •

Holy Communion on 21st July at 9:30 (followed by tea and coffee).

•

‘Together at 10’ on 25th August at 10:00 open to all of Benefice Villages (followed by tea and coffee)

•

Harvest Festival on 15th Sep at 11:00 followed by a picnic lunch in the Church.

The Church is having to fund 2 minor restoration projects; firstly, some

sections of the internal wall had to be replastered and painted which by the time you read this should have been completed and secondly, the organ requires a new motor and blower, which is currently on order as they are a made to measure product. These 2 projects will cost in the order of £7000.

To date we are very grateful to 3 parishioners who have donated towards these works.

If anyone would like to contribute to the restoration work so we can keep the Village’s Church going then any size of donation would be most appreciated.

T O D O N AT E You either scan the QR code which takes you to the ‘givealittle’ website and you can donate to St Mary Magdalene Organ Fund or contact Stuart stuartcattermull5764@yahoo.co.uk or mobile: 07492907084 https://givealittle.co/c/2ocvZQxeWkQ6hp6hAPTbe

30 T H E Spark T M A G A Z I N E July/August 2024

Galhampton ad.qxp_Layout 1 10/10/2023 12:23 Page 1

Galhampton Shop & Country Store

Animal Feeds and Bedding Timber Supplies Tools | Hardware | Gardening Workwear | Logs and Gas Local Food | Home Essentials Open 7 days a week Mon-Sat 7.30am – 5.30pm | Sun 10am – 4pm 01963 440464

Family-run, rural country store on A359 between Castle Cary and Sparkford Fir Tree Business Park, High Road, Galhampton, Somerset, BA22 7BH sales@galhamptoncountrystore.co.uk

Fir Villa

Residential Care Home 01935 850670

office@firvilla.co.uk www.firvilla.co.uk Camel Street, Marston Magna, Nr Yeovil, Somerset BA228DB

July/August 2024 T H E Spark T M A G A Z I N E 31

EASY SUPPER RECIPE

Easy Homemade Balsamic and Olive Oil Dressing

B

alsamic Vinegar Dressing is possibly the simplest of all salad dressings, a classic made with 1 part balsamic vinegar to 3 parts olive oil, plus salt, pepper and a t/s brown sugar.

A fantastic standby because balsamic vinegar dressing lasts for 3 to 4 weeks.

(The better the quality of the balsamic vinegar and olive oil, the better the dressing).

Serve with local organic salad ingredients available from The Old Parlour Farm Shop, Weston Mill, Sparkford BA22 7HY 01963 440044 theoldparlourfarmshop.co.uk

Eat, sleep, entertain, celebrate at The Sparkford Inn Fully Licenced for Civil Ceremonies Twelve en suite bedrooms

Catering for up to 130 guests

Large function room with own bar, stage & facilities

Free House High Road, Galhampton 01963 440751 www.orchardinngalhampton.co.uk

Beautiful 18th century building with original features

Full packages available, with everything under one roof Please ask for our latest brochure, or email us at Sparkfordinn.yeovil@phoenixpub.co.uk High Street, Sparkford, Yeovil BA22 7JH www.sparkfordinnpubyeovil.co.uk p: 01963 440218

32 T H E Spark T M A G A Z I N E July/August 2024

Queen Camel Tennis Club ww.clubspark.lta.org.uk/ QueenCamelTennis Club

A friendly and sociable two-court Club with floodlights. Social & competitive play + coaching - children & adults. Summer camps - see website for dates Playing Fields Green Lane Queen Camel BA22 7NW

North Cadbury Tennis Club North Cadbury Tennis Club is a public tennis facility situated in the village of North Cadbury. The club has two courts, holds a weekly club night during the summer and participates in the Yeovil & District Tennis League.

If you are interested in becoming a member, please check our website for details.

Non-members wishing to play can book a court, subject to availability, for a fee of £10 per court per hour.

Contact: Liz Ellis 079665 49714 www.northcadburytennisclub.co.uk

PAUL PARSONS DANCE Ballroom and Latin American dance classes have been held in the Market House, Castle Cary from around 1975 up until March 2020.

Everything changed for everyone in the spring of 2020.

I left the Market House and now run classes in a few different venues throughout the week.

Wells Town Hall - Monday at 7:00pm is an intermediate Ballroom and Latin American class 8:00pm for beginners Galhampton Village Hall - Wednesday at 7:00pm for intermediate Ballroom and Latin American.

One to one tuition for couples or singles is available in Hadspen Village Hall, 2 minutes north of Castle Cary, by arrangement.

New absolute beginner classes will start in the autumn in Wells Town Hall.

For more information and an informal chat regarding anything you might like to know, please call me on: 07805 571590. email: paulparsons7@googlemail.com July/August 2024 T H E Spark T M A G A Z I N E 33

Do you have small jobs around the house that nobody wants to do? Dripping tap?

Broken light? Door off its hinges? Rotten garden gate? The list is endless!

The HomeFirst Plus Handy Person can help.

We can give you a no-obligation estimate before we start any work so you stay in control of the job at all times and we bill you at the end.

Phone us now to book a visit to get all those small jobs sorted once and for all by our friendly Handy Person.

Are you experiencing mobility problems and difficulty accessing the bath everyday?

Is mobility in your home a problem?

We understand that accessibility is an important part of enjoying life and at HomeFirst Plus we have a wealth of experience in making adaptions to your home to make life so much easier.

Call us now for a no-obligation consultation with our friendly staff in the comfort of your own home. Check our website for more information.

HomeFirst Plus,The Old School, Queen Camel BA22 7NH Phone: 01935 319006 or 07817 877167 email: office@homefirstplus.co.uk www.homefirstplus.org

It has never been so important for us to use cash!

USE IT OR LOSE IT!!

Why is cash preferred: Businesses save money instantly on transaction fees.

They have more control over their profits.

If you can help save that business money, they are more likely to keep staff employed and give back to their local community.

Small to medium business are an integral part of keeping our local economy and community thriving and growing.

For more information: www.keepcashalive.com 34 T H E Spark T M A G A Z I N E July/August 2024

Richard Hammond’s Famous ‘Desert DB9’ Joins ‘Oliver’ the Opel Kadet at the Launch of Haynes Motor Museum’s new ‘DriveTribe’ Exhibition

T

he Aston Martin DB9 driven across the Sahara Desert by Richard Hammond in ‘The Grand Tour: Sand Job’ is among the star cars at a new DriveTribe exhibition at Haynes Motor Museum officially opening on Monday 24th June.

The new feature showcases cars, engines, digital and video content from Richard Hammond’s hugely successful DriveTribe social networking.

Alongside the heavily-modified and desert sand-blasted DB9 other iconic TV cars on display include ‘Oliver’ the 1962 Opel Kadet driven by Richard in the Top Gear Botswana Special, a 1998 Mazda MX5 Mk2 owned by DriveTribe presenter Mike Fernie, a 1971 Buick Riviera from the Grand Tour: Lochdown episode, and a Chevrolet SSR from The Grand Tour: Eurocrash.

The exhibition also features a V10 engine and a mix of digital and non-digital interpretation, interactive features and a photo opportunity.

Starting in 2017 as a social media platform founded by Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond, and James May, DriveTribe has evolved to become one of the biggest automotive media outlets and communities in the industry.

Known mainly for its YouTube channel featuring Richard Hammond, Mike Fernie, Ben Collins and Izzy Hammond, it now has over 2.6m subscribers.

The exhibition comes off the back of the DriveTribe Live event which is set to happen for its second year at the Museum with those attending the sold out event having exclusive first access to the new ‘exhibition’ before it opens to all Museum visitors the following day.

All interpretation has been written and filmed

by DriveTribe and features exclusive videos from Richard Hammond and the other presenters about each of the cars.

“After the success of the live event here at the museum, we view this exhibition as a natural extension of our partnership, and we’re really

pleased to offer fans, a chance to interact with what they see on screen in a real-life setting,” said Dave Murdoch, Managing Director at DriveTribe.

The exhibition is part of ongoing project to transform the Museum to be accessible for multiple audiences, not just enthusiasts – telling the stories behind the vehicles, their previous owners and social history.

“We’re always looking for ways to widen our audience and engage with new visitors,” said Museum Curator Dr Luca Hoare.

“We want motoring heritage to be accessible to as many people as possible. This innovative feature is an amazing opportunity for the Museum to access a significant new audience,” she added.

The exhibition will change over time with the introduction of new features and content giving visitors the chance to see different cars and discover new stories.

Located just off the A303 at Sparkford in Somerset, Haynes Motor Museum is an independent registered charity and Arts Council England accredited museum.

The new exhibition is included within general Museum entry. Visitors can book online and save 10% plus revisit all year round for FREE. Haynes Motor Museum, Sparkford, Nr. Yeovil, Somerset, BA22 7LH. Open 10am daily.

For more information call 01963 440804 or visit www.haynesmotormuseum.org.

July/August 2024 T H E Spark T M A G A Z I N E 35

Pets Corner Wellness screening is something we take for granted from our GP’s. As part of routine healthcare, they regularly take our blood pressure, ask us about our lifestyle and if there are any concerns about our health. They may check our urine or blood.

This is a concept that is as important to our adult pets as it is to us. Pets age around 7 times faster than humans and become susceptible to a variety of conditions just like us.

Routine vaccination appointments provide an opportunity to have your pet checked over and discuss any concerns you may have but that is only once a year.

Veterinary wellness screening is nurse-led. It is a comprehensive medical MOT for your cat or dog that can detect health issues and help give you peace of mind about your pets health and wellbeing.

You are invited to bring your adult pets to the surgery along with a urine

Starring: Maggie (British Blue), Ziggie (Biewer Terrier), Marshall (King Charles Spaniel)

sample and have their blood pressure checked, complete a full health check questionnaire and have a blood sample checked for any age changes that are not yet evident on the outside.

1 in 7 adults cats and dogs have something to hide that if detected early can be supported and managed in order to give the them best, longest life possible. This increases to 1 in 5 seniors and 2 in 5 geriatric pets that could be helped earlier if only we knew.

So if your cat is over 7 years old, your dog is over 5 (over 3 for giant breeds) then make a Wellness Screening appointment and we will help give you the peace of mind you are caring for your pet in the best way possible.

Fulford House, Torbay Road, Castle Cary, Somerset BA7 7DT Tel: 01963 350307 & 106 – 108 Hendford Hill, Yeovil, Somerset BA20 2RF Tel: 01935 474690

July/August 2024 T H E Spark T M A G A Z I N E 37

BUMPS, TOTS & TODDLERS If you have a little one, why not come along and join us on Wednesdays during term time

in St Barnabas Church, Queen Camel from 10.00 am – 12 noon

It is an opportunity for parents to meet and relax with a cup of coffee/tea and a piece of cake & for their little ones to explore and make friends. £3 per family - do come & join us!

For more info call Morwenna Ford on 01935 850 300

Serving the surrounding towns and villages of Wincanton. It’s available to people of all ages who, for one reason or another are unable to access service buses.

Available for picking you up and dropping you off at your door.

You pay a lifetime membership fee of £10 followed by zone related fares when traveling on the bus.

To book please ring: 01963 33864

Bus passes will give you 50% reduction in fare

38 T H E Spark T M A G A Z I N E July/August 2024

North Cadbury & District Gardening Club Please feel welcome to come and join us!

W

e meet the third Wednesday evening of each month, usually for a talk in the village hall in North Cadbury. We are very friendly and love to have new members.

Coming up this year are Local Open Gardens and cream tea in the village hall on July 17th and a visit with guided tour of Wraxall Vineyard, near Ditcheat, on 14th August. This includes a tasting of their 4 wines.

In September Paul Rendell from Dartmoor will be talking about its ‘Secret Nature’. In October, Martin Young is enlightening us about all aspects of hydrangeas. Louise Burks from Castle Gardens will be clearing the confusion of Gardening Folklore in November.

December sees us celebrating Christmas in an evening party to be catered by Dorset Delights.

In 2025 We’ve invited Abigail Willis of Castle Cary, author of ‘Somerset Gardens’ to share more deeply the garden stories in her book. There’ll also be a talk on Coastal Britain. In Pursuit of the Plants of Peru is a talk by a plant hunter and her husband who have many stories of adventures in far-flung places.

James Cross of Bishop Palace Gardens will be talking to us on Winter Borders, and also at our AGM in January there will also be a video presentation on the National Gardens Scheme.

A part of our cause is to manage and maintain both the village hall garden and the wild flower garden. We would love more volunteers! We are planning to have two or three gardening sessions a year with members joining in. The garden is flourishing now and has really benefitted from all the attention.

Membership is only £15 and benefits include discount events at Castle Gardens twice a year, which includes January and February. We also run a plant sale in the spring. We have a social evening in the summer with a shared meal as well as at Christmas.

Guests and visitors are always welcome to meetings for a small fee if you would like to try us out. If you’d like more information please contact Susie. ncgardening@outlook.com

July/August 2024 T H E Spark T M A G A Z I N E 39

Sudoku

Copyright © 2024 Puzzles.ca

Issue 1 answers:

The lucky winner of our Launch Issue Competition is: CHERRY TOOP, NORTH CADBURY and she has won a fabulous dinner for 2 at The White Post, Rimpton!

Many Congratulations!

AWARD-WINNNG Gastro Restaurant Rimpton, Dorset BA22 8AR P: 01935 851525 The White Post is a lovely gastro pub owned by Brett, an extremely talented chef, who is passionate about sourcing local produce.

The views are amazing and the County line runs through the middle of the bar!

Have drinks poured in Somerset and then drink them in Dorset!

www.thewhitepost.com 40 T H E Spark T M A G A Z I N E July/August 2024

Cricket Club News

Y

ou may have seen we have been busy with the installation of our fabulous new Training Nets!

Thanks to a lot of hard work in planning the project, fund raising and overseeing the construction, we now have a fabulous new training facility at Sparkford CC which is proving invaluable especially as the unsettled weather continues!

As always, the Ground looks superb thanks to the huge effort put in by Will our Groundsman.

We have had a great start to the Youth cricket season with Junior training nights on Wednesdays (5.30-7pm) being extremely well attended by very enthusiastic boys and girls from under 10s to under 16s. Our under 10s and under 14s teams are now well into their League seasons, with Cup games to follow, and are making great progress!

We have had a couple of recent inquiries regarding sponsor boards at the Club.

Sparkford CC are very

grateful to all our sponsors and if any business would like to have a board up at the Ground, please email me: jonkingbrain@gmail.com for details.

Motorcycle Repair & MOT Centre For a friendly and reliable service Steart Road Garage, West Camel, Somerset BA22 7RE July/August 2024 T H E Spark T M A G A Z I N E 41

CLASSIFIEDS Chimney Sweep and Vacuum

Gerry’s Window Cleaning Services

Clean and friendly service covering all local and surrounding areas

If you are interested in our professional reach and wash service, please call us today on: 074601 16468 or email: whitegerry7@gmail.com

For more details call Daren on 01935 850913

BW Painting Solutions Homes & Businesses Interior & Exterior Benjamin Woof Painting & Decorator e:bwpaintingsolutions@gmail.com p: 07766 543730

RAINBOW SMILE CARE

I am a self-employed carer based in Sparkford, with 25 years experience in all aspects of care.

If you need any help with organising your home, a home cooked meal or just a chat over a cup of tea, please get in touch. I am here to help you maintain vour Independence at home Some of the things I cover but not limited to are: personal care, social activities, respites. night sits, home from hostpial care.

I hold a DBS, Insurance, NVQ Health and Social Care, Dementia care and a clinical certiticate. e: rainbowsmilecare@yahoo.com p: 07944879437 42 T H E Spark T M A G A Z I N E July/August 2024

We also clean fascias, clean gutters and provide property maintenance

Helping Hands

Sole trader with 25 years care experience.

Services offered: Personal care: Meal preparation and House-keeping duties: Appointments & shopping trips: Companionship & social activities: Respite day and night: Sleep-ins & sit-ins. End of life care: Return from hospital visits: Gardening. e: lisawhitemore@hotmail.co.uk p: 07734 055309

Martin Roberts - Plasterer Plastering, Plasterboard & Screeding p: 07979 755567

To Advertise in T H E Spark Please contact: Jackie Bristow: 01963 361753 jpbristowbristow@gmail.com Deadline 14th August for the September/October 2024 issue

The Old Glove Factory, Neston, Wiltshire

Crafting innovative, thoughtfully designed homes with generous living spaces across Wiltshire, Bath, Somerset & Gloucestershire.

Visit our website for more details.

01225 791155

ashford-homes.co.uk