Issuu

the Village of Sparkford Including the hamlets of Weston Bampfylde & Little Weston, Somerset

Welcome

to the July/August Edition of The Spark Magazine 2025 Issue 8 www.sparkmagazinesparkford.co.uk

THE front cover of this issue has been provided by Georgia Bovey who owns the Beauté Shed in Weston Bampfylde. She has also converted a horse box into a lovely space to provide makeup at festivals, etc! She specialises in dermatological treatments and her ‘shed’ in Weston Bampfylde is a wonderful, peaceful, space for all beauty treatments.. Find out more on pages 14 & 15.

Look out for our Photo Competition to win an £80 Voucher from The Queens Arms, Corton Denham, plus, your image will appear on the front cover of the January/February 2026 Issue of The Spark Magazine! –The theme is ‘Pets at Rest’ –See Page 19

The John Haynes’ Inaugural Classic Car Show is taking place on Sunday, 7th September and we cover his amazing story on pages 38 to 39.

Sparkford Hall is up for sale and there is a short history about the Hall on pages 26 & 27.

Mandy Bloom, our local journalist, has carried out an interview with Ted Marsh, who evacuated from London during the second world war with his siblings and lives in Sparkford. See his story on pages 30 to 33.

John Harman is Sparkford’s Master Thatcher and a keen horse trainer. He used to own Sparkford Hall and we learn more about his life on pages 45 to 48.

Higher Farm is a new regenerative food and farming project outside Castle Cary. They also have off-grid nature cabins for people to enjoy a peaceful overnight stay surrounded by trees and birdsong. See pages 60 to 62.

There is a new Café in Sparkford! Larry & Royston Piper have opened up their vintage-

style café where people can sit indoors or outdoors to enjoy a cuppa. See pages 66 & 67.

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. Distribution: Jane Notley, Andy & Anne Voysey, Elma Wakefield, Justine Spacey, Anne Purdy, Helen Skinner, Victoria Rogers, Peter Bristow & George & Jill Lawson.

Thanks also to: Wincanton Print | www.wincanton-print.com

Victoria Osborne, Graphic Designer www.victoriaosbornedesign.com

The Spark Website Designed & maintained by Laura Tarling www.watermillmedia.co.uk

GET IN TOUCH

Please get in touch if you have any events that you would like us to publish in the September/October 2025 issue of The Spark Magazine – we will need all contributions and advertisements by the end of July and artwork (in high resolution 300dpi) by the 5th August 2025.

jpbristowbristow@gmail.com 01963 361753

“Yapp specialises in proper French wines that taste as if made to go with plates of food and good company. Its own-label pink from the Ardèche on the western banks of the Rhône river is no exception.”

Victoria

Moore, The Telegraph

With the best selection of rosé this side of the Channel, summer starts here. Bottles start at £10.95…

Yapp Brothers Wine Merchants Units 3A & 4, West 303, High Street, Sparkford, Somerset BA22 7JQ

sales@yapp.co.uk 01747 860423 @yappaboutwine

Open Monday - Friday 9am - 5pm

What’s on

at the Sparkford Parish Hall

Mondays 9am-12pm

‘O’ Gauge Trains

Would welcome new members!

Bob Harris: 01963 440167

Parish Council Meetings: 1st Monday of every month - 8pm

Monday & Tuesday Evenings (Term time)

Beavers / Cubs / Scouts

Anne Tuck: 07538 502812 www.sparkfordscouts.org.uk

Wednesdays

Art 2pm – 4pm

George Lawson: 01963 440551

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

Thursdays

Explorers

Somerset Mobile Library Village Hall Carpark: 17 July, 14 August, 11 September & 9 October

For further information visit: www.somerset.gov.uk/libraries or call Somerset Direct 0330 1232224

! GARAGE SALE CANCELLATION

5 July 2025

Unfortunately, the Sparkford village garage sale has had to be cancelled due to lack of response.

Fridays

Bingo

Every 2nd Friday of the month

Fridays & Saturdays

Paul Parsons is now taking one-to-one dancing lessons by arrangement Contact: 07805 571590

Various days

Fitness & Boxing

Please contact: Gemma Ruegg 0799 031 1969

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.

Forthcoming events July-August

July

1 Cam Vale Tuesday Group, Queen Camel Memorial Hall 10.30am – Speaker Gary Holpin Contact: Marion Chapman 01963 220741

1 – 31 Natural Energy Therapy & Reiki – Japanese Head Massage & Spa – AquaMove (by arrangement) Gong Bath (by arrangement) – Open Pathway – Queen Camel

4 Yoga & Bones for Life – Open Pathway – Queen Camel – 9.30 – 11am

4 Health & Wellbeing Walks – Meet at The Old School, Queen Camel @ 10am Contact: Georgina – walks@sasp.co.uk p: 07599 654679

4 – 6 Devitos Circus – Castle Cary – Performances 5pm & 7.30pm - devitoscircus.com - £7.99

5 Playfulness for the Lighthearted – Open Pathway – Queen Camel

5 Castle Cary Vintage Market – 10am – 3pm

6 Giant Flea Market – Bath & West Showground – Open 9.30am - £6 Adults – Accompanied Children Free

6 Young Driver – Driving Lessons for 10-17 year olds – Open 9.30 – From £46.99

8 – 20 Sherborne Abbey – Annual Calligraphy Exhibition – (All Day) – Lady Chapel

9 Singing for Fun – Market House, Castle Cary – 7pm – 9pm

10 Stourhead Buggy & Sling Walk – Stourhead Visitor Centre - 10am – 11.30am - Open to parents/carers with children under 5 years of age living within a 10-mile radius of The Balsam Centre, Wincanton

10 Nat West Van – Market House – Castle Cary 10.45am – 11.45am

11 Yoga & Bones for Life – Open Pathway – Queen Camel

11 Health & Wellbeing Walks – Meet at The Old School, Queen Camel @ 10am –Contact: Georgina – walks@sasp.co.uk p: 07599 654679

11 – 12 Balloons and Tunes – Bath & West Showground - 12pm – 11pm – From £6.99

12 Queen Camel Tennis Club Open Day – 9am – 2pm www.clubspark.lta.org.uk/queencameltennisclub

12 Craft Activities, Games & Workshops, The Balsam Centre, Castle Cary 10am – 2pm

15 The Arts Society, Mid Somerset – An English Eye: James Ravilious, the photography of a Forgotten corner of Britain – Caryford Hall, Maggs Lane, Ansford, Castle Cary BA7 7JJ - www.theartsocietymidsomerset.org.uk

16 North Cadbury Gardening Club – Garden Party – Please contact: susie.ncgardening@outlook.com

17 Somerset Mobile Library – Sparkford Parish Hall - 1.35pm – 2pm

18 Yoga & Bones for Life – Open Pathway – Queen Camel

18 Health & Wellbeing Walks – Meet at The Old School, Queen Camel @ 10am Contact: Georgina – walks@sasp.co.uk p: 07599 654679

18 – 21 Meditation – Open Pathway – Queen Camel

19 u3a Looking at Art – Castle Cary Market House – 7pm – 10pm

20 The Sherborne Market - 10am – 3pm

23 North Cadbury Village Hall, Reading Room. Women’s Group -10.00am. Talk on Trussel Trust Food Bank. Contact: Susie Morris 01963 441 319.

25 Rhythm of the Dance – Westlands Ballroom Yeovil.

25 Health & Wellbeing Walks – Meet at The Old School, Queen Camel @ 10am Contact: Georgina – walks@sasp.co.uk p: 07599 654679

26 Repair Café and 0-5s Clothing Bank – Balsam Centre 10am – 12.30pm

27 Garden Party – Open Pathway – Queen Camel – 2.30pm – 4.30pm

30 – 4 Aug New Wine 2025 – Tickets from £157 – Gathering of Christians from all around The UK and beyond – Camping £206 – Young Adult (18-29) £194 – Offsite Adult £166

Wednesdays 2, 9, 16, 23 & 30 July – 6pm-8pm Queen Camel Memorial Hall – Queen Camel Youth Group – Open to young people aged 10-14 living in Sparkford

August

1 Health & Wellbeing Walks – Meet at The Old School, Queen Camel @ 10am Contact: Georgina – walks@sasp.co.uk p: 07599 654679

1 – 31 Natural Energy Therapy & Reiki – Japanese Head Massage & Spa – AquaMove (by arrangement) –Gong Bath (by arrangement) – Open Pathway – Queen Camel

2 Castle Cary Vintage Market 10am – 3pm

3 Mitch Garlington presents a Evening of Mediumship – Caryford Hall, Castle Cary – 7.30pm – 10pm - £12.50

5 Cam Vale Tuesday Group, Queen Camel Memorial Hall 10.30am – Cream Tea –Contact: Marion Chapman 01963 220741

5 – 24 Sherborne Abbey – Photography Exhibition – Lady Chapel

6 – 10 Satellites 2025 – Bath & West Showground - Five-day gathering is designed to inspire teenagers to live with God at the Centre of their lives. Open 12pm – Admission from £99

7 Nat West Van – Market House – Castle Cary – 10.45am – 11.45am

8 Health & Wellbeing Walks – Meet at The Old School, Queen Camel @ 10am Contact: Georgina – walks@sasp.co.uk p: 07599 654679

9 The Script – Glastonbury Abbey – Freya Ridings – Steve Whalley Band & The Wells Cathedral Oratorio Society – Advance Tickets £50 – www.glastonburyabbey.com/extravaganza

9 Craft Activities, Games & Workshops – The Balsam Centre - 10am – 2pm

12 Summer Play Day – Cale Park, Wincanton

14 Somerset Mobile Library – Sparkford Parish Hall – 1.35 – 2pm

15 Health & Wellbeing Walks – Meet at The Old School, Queen Camel @ 10am Contact: Georgina – walks@sasp.co.uk p: 07599 654679

16 North Cadbury Gardening Club – Visit, tour and tastings at Harry’s Cider Farm, Long Sutton, nr. Langport – 11am. Please contact: susie.ncgardening@outlook.com

16 Bath & West Showground – 2nd2NoneDriving School – Under 17s and HGV. Doors open 10am – 3pm – From £45 per 30 minute session

17 Giant Flea Market – Bath & West Showground – Open 9.30am - £6 per adult – accompanied children free.

17 The Sherborne Market – 10am – 3pm

22 Health & Wellbeing Walks – Meet at The Old School, Queen Camel @ 10am –Contact: Georgina – walks@sasp.co.uk p: 07599 654679

23 Party in the Park – Sparkford Playground Committee – Stalls – Music, BBQ, Raffle, Tombola - Plus fun and games!!

23 Repair Café and 0-5s Clothing Bank – The Balsam Centre – 10am – 12.30pm

29 Health & Wellbeing Walks – Meet at The Old School, Queen Camel @ 10am Contact: Georgina – walks@sasp.co.uk p: 07599 654679

30-31 Giant Truck Fair – Bath & West Showground – Doors Open 9.30am – Admission £18

Wednesdays 6, 13, 20 & 27 August – Queen Camel Memorial Hall – Queen Camel Youth Group – 6pm-8pm Open to young people aged 10-14 living in Sparkford

If you would like your event to be listed free of charge in The Spark Magazine, please contact Jackie Bristow on 01963 361753 or jpbristowbristow@gmail.com

Cancellation of Sparkford’s Duck Race 2025

Tragically, the Sparkford Playing Field Committee had to announce in May 2025 that their annual Duck Race had to be cancelled because the sluice gates were damaged due to the winter storms and could not be shut to contain the water. It is usually possible to hold the water in with these gates, but as they are now rotten, it is not possible to do so and the river is bone dry.

This annual event is the main fundraiser for the Playing Field Committee and there is now a huge gap left in their finances.

The Committee have organised a ‘Go Fund Me’ to help recover the loss and

have decided to hold a ‘Party in the Park’ on Saturday, 23rd August for the village which will hopefully help their cause.

The ‘Party in the Park’ will be a lovely event with opportunities for people to have stalls to sell their products @ £15. There will be Music, BBQ, Raffle, Tombola and Fun & Games.

There are plans to hopefully provide shelter in the Playing Field and the Committee need to build a new Santa Sleigh.

They are also hoping to open up a ‘Santa’s Grotto’ later this year at Piper Trimmers for children to enjoy.

All this takes time and effort by the Committee. Please get in touch to let them know if you can help in any way and also if you would like to take a stall at ‘The Party in the Park’ on the 23rd August.

Please contact Caz on 07841 470237 or Karen on 07506 250359 for further details.

The Beauté Shed:

Your Skin’s Best Friend in Somerset

Nestled in the serene countryside of Sparkford The Beauté Shed is a small intimate salon (est 2017) where it’s all things beauty. Georgia (salon owner) is very passionate, even still with her little one in tow. All the team pride themselves on offering a wide range of treatments tailored to your unique needs, from IPL treatments to bridal makeup even to a simple brow shape, every single client to come through the door leaves feeling a better them. Georgia said, that’s all she’s ever wanted, to provide a space for people to come and always leave feeling better.

The team are venturing out this June to Inner sanctum campsite at Glastonbury festival, where they offer festival makeup and massages for the more fragile festival goers. Georgia renovated this old rice horse box in her maternity leave last spring, her goals are to continue doing both the things she loves most, business and her baby. The Beauty Box will have them out enjoying the summers together.

Summer beauty tips from Georgia and the team

Never Skip SPF

The sun’s rays are stronger in summer. Protect your skin daily with broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher, even on cloudy days.

Hydrate Inside & Out

Drink plenty of water and use a lightweight, hydrating moisturizer to keep your skin plump and healthy.

Exfoliate Gently

Use a mild exfoliator 1–2 times a week to remove dead skin cells and prevent clogged pores.

Protect Your Lips & Eyes

Use an SPF lip balm and wear sunglasses to shield delicate areas from UV damage.

With the UV rays growing stronger this season, it’s more important than ever to protect your skin with SPF. We are here to guide you in choosing the right products and treatments for your skin type.

We invite you to visit us for a free consultation, where you can discuss your skin concerns with our friendly and approachable team. Whether you’re looking for a quick consultation or a full treatment plan, we’re here to ensure you leave feeling confident in an industry that can be so overwhelming.

Find out more and book treatments on our website www.thebeauteshed.co.uk

01963 440802

The Beauté Shed, Mill Farm, Weston Bampfylde, Yeovil, Somerset, United Kingdom, BA22 7HY

The Spark Magazine

Photographic

Competition

Theme - ‘Pets At Rest’

Are you a keen photographer?

Would you like your image to appear on the front cover of The Spark Magazine January/February 2026 issue?

Please email your image in high resolution (300 dpi) to jpbristowbristow@gmail.com by the end of July 2025, together with your name, address and telephone number. (If possible, it would be preferable to have photographs taken in the local area).

Please include: your pet’s name a little bit of information about the photograph where and when it was taken.

The photograph entries will be judged by Graham Hiscock of Camelot Photographic, Wincanton and we will announce the winner in the September/October 2025 issue of The Spark Magazine.

Please note that if you do not inform us otherwise, we will pass your details on to The Queen’s Arms.

Many thanks & good luck!

The winner will receive a voucher worth £80 from The Queen’s Arms, Corton Denham

Valid until November 2025

Summer shade solutions

If the recent hot spell has not yet prompted you to think about how you are going to shade your home during the summer months, then now is the time. Join the people who have already invested in creating shade to their homes and gardens with our extensive range of shading solutions and are already reaping the benefits of cooler living spaces. At LPSS we offer top quality products, reliable and honest advice, and a firstclass installation service.

The most effective way of keeping your home cool is by shading from the outside before the sun reaches the glass. We offer a variety of retractable Patio Awnings with optional drop-down valances, side screens, lighting, sun and wind sensors and the Weinor Plaza Viva framed awning. Our external roller blinds with screen fabrics allow you to enjoy your view whilst reducing heat gain considerably. Don’t delay, give us a call to arrange a no obligation site survey to discuss your requirements and get shaded for the summer. Say yes to LPSS.

07879 992000 enquiries@lizziepriceshadingsolutions.co.uk Visit our website to view the full range of products www.lizziepriceshadingsolutions.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

• Fresh BREAD, PASTRIES & PIES baked on the premises

• Dry Cleaning with PUFFINS of Yeovil

• Groceries – Fruit & Vegetables & Milk

• Pet foods & household goods

• Hot drinks available

• Colour/Black & White Photocopying – Faxing – Laminating AND MUCH MORE...

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK 8am-6pm Monday-Friday 8am-1pm Saturday 9am-1pm Sunday

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

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.

Croscombe Village Hall - Monday 6.30pm –Intermediate Ballroom and Latin class – 7.30pm for beginners Ballroom & Latin.

Galhampton Village Hall – Wednesday at 7pm for intermediate Ballroom and Latin American.

Sparkford Parish Hall – One-to-one tuition for couples or singles is available by arrangement.

For more information and an informal chat regarding anything you might like to know, please contact me on: 07805 571590. Email: paulparsons7@googlemail.com

Uncovering Ham Hill’s Past for Its Future: A New Chapter Begins

A new visitor centre and other improvements are on the way for an iconic Somerset landmark as a major project at Somerset Council’s Ham Hill Country Park starts soon.

The ‘Uncovering Ham Hill’s past for its future’ project has been made possible thanks to a £2.153M grant from The National Lottery Heritage Fund and further financial support totalling £111,200 from the Wolfson Foundation, Leonardo, and with the support of the Friends of Ham Hill, Garfield Weston, Bernard Sunley Foundation and the Bannister Trust.

The first works on site are expected to start next month, connecting water

and power to the site of a brand-new purpose-built visitor centre next to the Lime Kiln Car Park. The aim is to start the visitor centre build itself at the end of March, with the goal to complete this autumn – though as with any construction project the schedule can be affected by unforeseen factors, such as the weather. The new visitor centre will feature a café and changing places facilities and host permanent exhibitions and interactive displays, to

make Ham Hill’s stories accessible to all. The project also aims to support local schools and community groups with educational resources.

Thanks to the generous Heritage Fund grant, Somerset Council has welcomed two new members to our team to help deliver the project: An Assistant Ranger and Engagement Ranger have joined our two permanent rangers Paul and James and our incredible group of volunteers. Together, their work will help conserve and celebrate the rich heritage and nature of Ham Hill including:

• Heritage Conservation: Protecting and showcasing the wealth of archaeology at Ham Hill, including its status as one of Europe’s largest Iron Age hillforts.

• Biodiversity Enhancement: Improving habitat management to support a diverse range of species and ecosystems.

• Community Engagement: Offering educational programmes and interactive exhibits to engage visitors with the history, geology, wildlife and natural beauty of Ham Hill.

• Visitor Experience: Developing new ways to help people explore Ham Hill with an accessible visitor centre, a café and permanent and temporary themed exhibitions.

Councillor Grahame Oakes, Somerset Council’s Lead Member for Public Health, Environment and Climate Change said:

“This is an exciting time for the Ham Hill community. We can’t wait for visitors to see and experience the positive impact of these efforts. We are committed to making Ham Hill an accessible place where people can connect with nature and history in meaningful ways, ensuring this muchloved historical beauty spot is preserved for future generations and continues to be a wildlife haven for nature to thrive. This project will also serve as a model for heritage and conservation efforts across Somerset, inspiring similar initiatives throughout the county. As part of the council’s plan for a greener, more sustainable Somerset, we aim to promote environmental stewardship and sustainable tourism. We are extremely grateful to the Heritage Fund and other generous benefactors for their amazing support—without them, this project would have just been a dream.”

GET INVOLVED

If you would like to get involved at Ham Hill through volunteering or find out more about the activities on offer for your group or organisation please contact countryside@somerset.gov.uk

Keep up to date with the project’s progress, follow Ham Hill on social media or check out the Visit South Somerset website www.visitsouthsomerset.com

Sparkford Hall

Change of Ownership - A New Era

From the 17th century until 1815, the manor of Sparkford was attached to the North Cadbury Court estate and had no separate manor house.

James Bennett (1746-1815), by his will, separated the two properties and bequeathed Sparkford to his younger son, the Rev. Henry Bennett (1795-1874), who after spending many years acting as a Protestant chaplain around Europe, settled back in Somerset. In 1853 he built, on a previously unoccupied site, a new square manor house of pale golden-grey Doulting

stone, which has a three-bay entrance front and four-bay side and rear elevations. A large extension of two storeys and attics was added to the north side later in the 19th century as a service wing. The interiors are correspondingly simple, with decoration concentrated on the staircase hall in the centre of the house,

where the staircase has a cast iron balustrade and rises under a coved ceiling with two large skylights in it to a first-floor balcony with a similar balustrade.

The grounds were landscaped at the time the house was built and were described as having ‘a park-like appearance’ in the late 19th century, something which remains true today.

The estate was sold by the SteadEllis family around 1990 when the A303 by-pass was built which cut off the drive to the house from the High Street.

James March purchased Sparkford Hall in 2011 and refurbished the house. He has been running it as a private house to rent for holidays, parties and weddings since then.

However, Sparkford Hall is at the time of publication on the market and waiting for its next owner....

ENQUIRIES

Please contact Roderick Thomas, Castle Cary 01963 351993 www.roderickthomas.co.uk

Mabel’s Café

Galhampton Stores

High Road, Galhampton, Somerset BA22 7BH | p: 01963 401230

Open 7 Days a Week

Monday – Saturday 9am – 4pm

Sunday - 10am – 2pm

Wedding & Event Florals

Sympathy & Gift Designs

Flower School & Creative Workshops

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

From London Evacuee to Somerset Stockman: Ted Marsh’s Story

During World War II, the British government organized the evacuation of children and vulnerable adults from cities and towns to safer rural areas. This ‘Operation Pied Piper’ aimed to protect these individuals from potential bombing and gas attacks. The evacuation began in September 1939 and involved the movement of millions of people, primarily schoolchildren, accompanied by teachers and sometimes parents.

Experiences:

While some children enjoyed the countryside and their host families, others experienced homesickness and difficulty adjusting to the new environment.

Psychological impact:

The evacuation had a mixed impact on children, with some experiencing trauma and separation anxiety, while others found it to be a positive experience.

Long-term effects:

The evacuation had a lasting impact on the lives of those who were evacuated, some of whom stayed in their new locations after the war.

To mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day in May 2025, Ted Marsh from Sparkford talked to local memoir writer Mandy Bloom about how he was evacuated from London to Somerset at the start of the Second World War and how that led to a lifetime’s work in agriculture.

I was born a Cockney in East London in October 1929, in the sound of Bow Bells. My mother Florence worked in the paint factory and my father Walter for Ranks Flour Mills in Victoria Docks until it was bombed. He was conscripted into the army and joined the Royal Engineers in 1942.

Before I was ten, I went to Grange Road School and was already old enough to pick up the paper and read about Adolf Hitler. I remember when Neville Chamberlain met Hitler and returned promising, ‘Peace for our time’. Chamberlain had hardly got back to Downing Street before Hitler had advanced into Czechoslovakia.

Early in 1939, every household with a garden was given corrugated steel for an Anderson shelter. My father and uncle dug a hole, 6 ft x 8 ft and covered the floor with matting. So far in our family I had two brothers and three sisters and we would go down into the shelter to play. That summer our parents told us that the four eldest – me, Wally, Evelyn and Margaretwould be ‘going away on holiday to the countryside’ saying we would be home for Christmas when the war was over. Wally was eight and Evelyn was six, but little Margaret was only four and hadn’t started school yet. In the last week of

August, we went to school carrying our gas masks with a label showing our name, address and school, plus a packed lunch and clothing in a bag. As my sisters didn’t own a bag, they used pillowcases tied in a knot. Our father impressed in me that it was crucial that we must all stick together and I took that responsibility seriously.

Every morning that week we left saying ‘Cheerio Mum, see you later,’ but on Friday 1st September the teachers seemed agitated. We were to walk to West Ham Underground Station – a hundred children with three teachers. We crossed London to Ealing Broadway where a steam train was waiting. We had never been on a steam train before. Three hours later we stopped at Frome where other schools got off, then Bruton. This was an incredible operation – moving one and a half million children out of London that day. We were loaded onto coaches to Sparkford. In the village hall, where people sitting at a desk were allocating children to foster parents. Wally and I were picked out for Gladys and Reg Hobbs, a farmworker in Weston Bampfylde, while Evelyn and Margaret were given to Marjorie Bishop, the cheesemaker at Home Farm. I shouted out, ‘No, they’re not going there! They’re my sisters –we have to stay together!’ Miss Bishop kindly told me we would be able to see their farmhouse from our window.

While we adapted to life in the country, we didn’t go to school until Wednesday, walking to Queen Camel Memorial Hall. By early 1940, most evacuees had returned to London, with only eight left by

Easter, so we joined the main school. I was ten when I passed the school scholarship papers and was told I had won a place at Yeovil Boys’ School. My father was up in arms at the idea: ‘You’re not going to Yeovil. You must all stay together.’ I’ve always regretted that lost opportunity.

Reg Hobbs kept a few cows for the Slades at Manor Farm. A local boy called Keith Hallett, who was my age, helped Reg with the milking. During that first winter, I would go into the byre after school to watch him milk. ‘If you can do that, Keith, so can I!’ I said. Reg overheard and replied, ‘There’s a bucket. There’s a stool. There’s a cow. Get under it.’ I milked my first cow and soon was given two to milk. On 1st September 1939, I didn’t know a cow from a bull, but by Christmas I was milking daily.

In March 1940, when the German bombing started, we had another influx of evacuees from Southampton. Our neighbours, the Spencers, took in two boys: Roy Pierce, and Jim Hazel. Like me, Jim enjoyed sport and we played cricket with a makeshift cricket bat which Mr Spencer had fashioned from a length of wood.

Harry Slade, the farm owner, saw us playing and later called me in to see him. ‘I’m very thankful to you for helping Reg milk the cows. You know I can’t pay you, but there’s a package for you.’ Inside was a beautiful cricket bat and three stumps. ‘Now you can go out in the field to play instead of in the yard,’ he said. It became one of my most treasured possessions and I still have it today.

In January 1941, Wally and I moved to South Barrow with the Misses Wakes. It felt like Victorian times - no electricity, a tin toilet outside and cooking on an oil stove or range. They were strict, not allowing us to play with other children. But there were advantages as the youngest Miss Wake was musical and arranged for her neighbour Miss Raymond to teach me harmonium. I later owned this same harmonium and also played the church organ for years.

One weekend in April 1945 my mother travelled down to fetch us - after five and a half years, we were going home. My father wanted me to become an electrical apprentice, so I joined Tate & Lyle, starting the day after VE Day holiday. I stayed until November when it was discovered, during football training, that I had a heart problem. The consultant noticed my West Country accent and when I explained about our evacuation said, ‘Well, I think you had better go back where you came from.’ That was music to my ears, as

I couldn’t get on with factory work. I returned to Somerset in February 1946 to work for the Wakes. After a couple of years, I moved to work for Vince Croft at Lower Farm, North Barrow, where I had already met Ellen Goodland at the youth club. We married in September 1950.

Ellen and I had four children - Brenda, Phillip, Linda and Steven. We moved to Sparkford in 1986 and - in addition to the war years - I have now been living in Somerset for 79 years. Ellen sadly died in November 2014. I worked as a stockman all my life and was group chairman for the Agricultural and Allied Workers’ Trades Union and Camelot branch secretary. In 1983 I was awarded

the British Empire Medal in the Queen’s News Years Honours for my work with my colleagues in agriculture and for work in the community. (Photo) Had it not been for Hitler, none of this would have happened and my life would have been entirely different.”

ENQUIRIES

For more information about commissioning Mandy Bloom to write your life story visit www.mandybloom.co.uk or email enquiries.mandybloom@gmail.com

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

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

1 ORCHARD LANE, SOUTH CADBURY, YEOVIL, BA22 7FS LOYAL TO LOCAL

Coffee, Restaurant, Food Market, Butcher, Bakery, Cheese Counter, Food-to-Go, Community, Wellness Classes, Gifts, Books, Dog-Jog & B Corp.

Hidden Value?

Having a clear-out feels a good thing to do these days. We seem to have so much stuff in our lives, with less room and limited time to attend it.

Most homes seem to have coins and notes secreted somewhere, unbothered, in a tin or drawer. Old holiday money, outof-date UK cash, and even ‘unidentified round things made of metal’!

Could be well worth a look, and an opportunity to make space and a bit of cash at the same time.

I spend most of my time on-the-road, visiting homes to identify and value coins, notes, medals, etc. and pretty regularly

somebody turns up a real ‘winner’. Have a think and a rummage; all it costs is a cuppa (and maybe a biscuit)!

Another angle of my work is to help charities, large and small, to raise funds and I love assisting local projects. A oneoff campaign can prove fruitful within just a few weeks – I recently worked with the Otterhead Trust where we set a target of £500, but with great efforts from the locals, they exceeded £1200.

So maybe have a think about what is lurking in the darker corners at home and see if I can help you decide what to do with it. I am always happy if you wish to keep the items, may be because of the memories hey hold; or if you choose to pass them on in the family. It can and does bring a bit of history back to life.

Lovington C of E Primary School raises £950 at May Fayre

This year the sun shone perfectly down on Lovington C of E Primary School as they celebrated the annual May Fayre, on their beautiful field on the 17th of May 2025. All of the dedicated staff, creative PTA and excited children gathered to entertain each other, the community, relatives, friends and new comers with a whole host of activities that created an event any school could be proud of.

The May Queen, Jessica, was crowned and the day commenced with Pippin class Do-si-do’ing and setting the scene with country dancing. Bramley and Russet class kept the pace up with their Maypole dancing and it was simply perfect in the sun. The Castle Cary Sygnets gave it their all for the crowds and even persuaded some to join in!

The rest of the day was filled with entrepreneurship with children running their own stalls selling friendship

bracelets, sweets and prizes, birds of prey stunned everyone with their beauty, the bar buzzed, the BBQ fed the masses, cakes and coffee fuelled everyone, coconuts were won, sponges were comically thrown at parents and teachers in the stocks, face painting was nonstop, ice-creams were devoured before they melted, targets were hit in archery, the splat-a-rat and hook-a-duck kept tradition flowing, great prizes were won on the raffle, the goalie was, in fact, beaten! And money was raised for the small school, with the biggest of hearts. The day was truly perfect for all, and the traditional, community-based feeling shone through. Lovington Primary School is not one to be overlooked with events like these. The new Headteacher, Mrs. E. Marshall, has set the precedent for next year!”

Naomi Bushrod, Chair of Governers

Lovington C of E Primary School, Lovington, Castle Cary, Somerset, BA7 7PX

01963 24030

office@lovington.ppat365.org

Haynes Motor Museum to Host Inaugural John Haynes Classic Motor Show

Haynes Motor Museum is hosting the first John Haynes Classic Motor Show on Sunday 7th September 2025. This new Somerset event will bring motoring enthusiasts and the local community together to mark 40 years since John Haynes OBE founded the Museum in 1985. The show, spread across five outdoor zones, will feature displays, demonstrations, talks and activities celebrating John Haynes’ passion for the motor vehicle.

Central to the show is the Haynes Manual Display, showcasing vehicles

with a corresponding Haynes Workshop Manual and celebrating John Haynes’ ability to make complex engineering easy to understand.

Highlights of this display include the Museum’s 1971 Ford Escort Mexico, the 1965 ‘Project 50’ Mustang and the 2001 Citroën Saxo Max Power. The Museum is also offering the chance for vehicle owners to be part of the display and receive free entry to the show.

Chris Scudds, CEO of Haynes Motor Museum says, “We’ve been amazed by the interest shown by car and motorcycle clubs, as well as visitors. This will be a

very special day celebrating John’s legacy and the motor vehicle.”

Other attractions will include the Car and Motorcycle Club Arena, Live Show Paddock, Discovery Zone with handson STEM activities, and a Market with local food, drink and crafts alongside automotive exhibitors.

As an Arts Council England accredited Museum and charity, proceeds will support the Museum’s charitable aims of preserving its collection and delivering learning activities.

Haynes Motor Museum, Sparkford, Nr. Yeovil, Somerset, BA22 7LH. For more information call 01963 440804 or visit www.johnhaynesclassic.co.uk

SUNDAY 7 SEPTEMBER

Haynes Motor Museum will be hosting its very own signature classic motor show. This show honours John Haynes OBE, creator of the iconic Haynes Manual and founder of Haynes Motor Museum. The show will celebrate his legacy through a day of heritage and nostalgia.

We write this month’s entry in between 2 work trips to Greece. We have recently return from the island of Zakynthos where the Shearer family who own and run Peligoni, invited us to fly out and cook for their guests. Peligoni is a rather fabulous beach club, beside the coastal village of Agios Nikolaos. We were part of their PACE week, an invigorating wellness week led by a hand-picked selection of the industry’s leading practitioners and specialists. The whole focus was to bring people together in a beautiful Greek island setting and providing a whole host of experiences designed to leave you feeling physically, mentally and emotionally nourished.

Well we felt all three! On the Monday evening, we cooked a welcome dinner over fire for 150 guests, using the freshest island produce – lamb cooked over fire, heritage tomatoes and sweet peppers, and to finish wood roasted peaches, with honey ice cream and baklava crumb. It was a great way for everyone to meet as they started a week together. We met friends old and new, and participated in many of the workshops which included everything from cold dips to yoga, to breathwork. Steve, an avid Peloton fan, even got to ride with his hero Sir Chris Hoy. Luckily for us, there was plenty of down time to enjoy coastal walks, leisurely meals, and sea swims. To close

the week, we left our youngest Horrell’s to host our stand at the Peligoni food festival. Lauren, Harvey and Cosmo served up homemade falafel with a herby yogurt in fluffy homemade pittas – it was just what everyone needed!

Meanwhile, Steve and I flew back early to visit the Chelsea Flower Show. As first timers at the show and invited as guests by our friends at The Newt, we were in awe. The show was inspiring to see, and it was a pleasure to see both wild meadow style, and edible gardens included. We bumped into several gardening friends, and caught up with Kat who was responsible for our beautiful handmade block print table linen. We first came across Kat’s table linen range at Teals, before getting in contact and asking her to create a range for our table. She was showcasing her newest wares on her stand at Chelsea.

Just before we went away, we spent

a busy 2 weeks planting out all our flower seedlings, brassicas, bean and squash plants. The end of May is such a busy time in the garden, with the risk of frosts behind us, it was time to empty the polytunnel of seedlings and fill it with tomatoes and cucumbers. It felt like a race against time, but we just about managed.

We then handed over to Laura our trustee gardener to take care of all the baby plants, and to water whilst were away. We arrived home to borders blooming with colour, and a very productive kitchen garden.

As you read this, we will just have returned from Athens where we are hosting a summer wedding for friends on a private estate high in the hills, more to come on that in our next diary entry.

Until next time xx

www.horrellandhorrell.co.uk

Are you looking for new tiles?

With over 25 years of experience, J2Tiling is a trusted, family-run business that has built a reputation for delivering high quality tiling and bathroom installation services. Specialising in both supply and fit or supply only, they cater to a wide range of residential and commercial needs with attention to detail and expert craftsmanship.

Not only do they offer quality tiling and sanitary ware solutions, but J2Tiling also undertakes plumbing and electrical work, making them a one-stop shop for your bathroom renovation needs. Their prices are highly competitive, often rivalling large retailers, while still delivering personalised service and professional installation.

With a team of experienced tilers and bathroom installers, J2Tiling ensures every project is completed to the highest standards. Whether you are updating a bathroom or adding a stylish touch to any room, you can trust their expert teams to get the job done right.

As a family-oriented business, J2Tiling is also proud to offer VAT Disability Relief, please contact them to see if your project would be eligible. Their new website and showroom

make it easy to explore options and connect with the team for a hasslefree renovation experience.

• Quality Floor & Wall Tiles from Leading Brands

• Professional Fitting/Installation Service

• Design Advice

• Supply & Fit or Supply Only

• Full Range of Sanitary Ware, Basins, Baths

• Large Format Wall and Floor Tiles

Open: 8am – 4.30pm Monday to Friday 9am - 1pm Saturday

Unit 16, Venture 20, Lynx West Trading Estate, Yeovil BA20 2HP p: 01935 472088

www.j2tiling.co.uk

Meet John Harman… Sparkford’s Master Thatcher

Thatched roofs may have been with us since the Bronze Age or even the Neolithic Period, but according to Sparkford’s Master Thatcher John Harman, this ancient craft is still in demand as an environmental and aesthetic roofing solution today. And John doesn’t foresee that a thatcher’s skills will become endangered - a thatched

roof uses natural, sustainable materials, looks beautiful and provides good heat insulation and leaves virtually no footprint. John has been thatching for over 50 years, ‘It appealed to me as a 16-yearold because I wanted variety in my work. Although I was earning good money on a farm, I couldn’t see my long-term future there.’ Finding an

Interview with Mandy Bloom, Mandy Bloom Memoirs, Castle Cary, May 2025

apprenticeship was difficult, as most thatchers only wanted to hire trained men.

“

You live and die by your reputation - no thatcher would get away with producing poor work

He went from £24 a week to nothing in an unpaid trial with one thatcher, leading to a four-year apprenticeship with another Master Thatcher, David Howell in Shaftesbury, earning £5 a week. His lodgings cost £8, he remembers, so he relied on his father’s generous support.

for long.”

internationally, with contracts across Britain as well as in Normandy, heritage sites like Jamestown, USA and zoos in Los Angeles and Washington. At one time he had seven self-employed thatchers on his team.

‘Dad had 40 acres at Sturminster Marshall, Dorset. After learning about growing thatching materials from a local farmer, I started cultivating my own there and bought a binder for £40. That enabled me to start my own business, and I’ve since worked on roofs across the country and abroad. In the hot summer of 1976 I grew about 20 acres which was enough straw to set me up.’

Thirty years ago John saw the early potential in websites and after launching www.thatcher.co.uk, his career expanded

Mudford, Somerset

‘One of the biggest thatching contracts I did was for the Marie Antoinette Court at Ovaltine Dairy Farm in Hertfordshire. I’ve recently tendered again for the re-thatch, and was asked if I had ever done projects of that magnitude before - I sent them a newspaper cutting of me aged 26 completely rethatching The Ovaltine Complex, which was originally for the dairy herd, converted into 15 houses.

‘That was 1983, I used Norfolk reed then, and it has lasted all this time, which proves the longevity of English materials. I’m passionate about English reed - there is great potential for growing it again on the Somerset Levels where Sedge grass gave Sedgemoor its name. If schemes were set up to grow reed domestically in these marshland areas it would create manual jobs for young people and reduce imports.

‘We use water reed, wheat straw and long straw, but today most reed comes from Hungary, Ukraine and China, there’s hardly any cut in Norfolk any more. Our wheat straw has no artificial nitrogen added in the

Tarrant Monkton, Dorset

growing process, as this reduces the life span of thatch.’

“On a sunny day when the birds are singing, it’s lovely to be on a thatched roof.”

John moved from the New Forest to Sparkford in 2000 and now employs three people: two master thatchers and one trainee. Although Master Thatcher is not a formal qualification, he says the thatching industry is selfregulating. ‘You live and die by your reputation - no thatcher would get away with producing poor work for long. There are fewer master thatchers in the UK now than when I started, but recently it’s been steady at around 900. Thatchers rarely make a lot of money, but they have a good way of life.’

He says young people considering it as a career would still need financial support. Although there is an NVQ, (which are difficult to get on), apprenticeships are self-funded, so it could be seen as an alternative to further education – but without the student loan. ‘Applicants would also need to have a feel for the material and be practical with their hands. I would be more likely to take on someone who can say they’ve worked on a farm, driven a tractor and mucked out stables,’ he says. While these days he’s most often seen with both his feet on the ground

wearing a fedora and Western boots, or riding his beloved horses, John still enjoys thatching. ‘On a sunny day when the birds are singing, it’s lovely to be on a thatched roof for a couple of days, but at 69, I mainly focus on our project management.’ He’s amused when returning customers from 30-40 years ago ask ‘Are you still thatching?’ ‘Why would he want to retire?’ he asks.

Hazelbury Bryan, Dorset

John Harman Thatching Limited

Equestrian Centre

Sparkford Hall, Sparkford Somerset, BA22 7LD

enquiries@thatcher.co.uk

Tel: 07774 223252

www.thatcher.co.uk

Queen Camel

Countess Gytha Preschool

We are a friendly term time only preschool located in the village of Queen Camel just outside of Yeovil.

We have 2, 3 and 4 year old spaces available!

We accept 30 hours funding and also 2-Year-Old funding.

Our session times are:

9:00am – 12:00pm 12:00pm – 1:00pm 1:00pm – 3:15pm/3:30pm

In addition to this we are pleased to announce we also offer out of hours sessions which are as follows: 8:00am – 9:00am 3:30pm – 5:30pm (bookable in half hour sessions)

We offer a wide range of activities supporting the children’s development and interests in both an indoor and outdoor environment.

As staff we are hugely passionate about promoting high self-esteem, self-worth and independence to support the children in both their academic and social and emotional journey.

Please contact us for more information, for a viewing or to secure your child’s place!

Phone Number: 01935 850564

Email address: preschool@countessgytha.ppat365.org

Or find us on Facebook – Countess Gytha Preschool

Cam Vale Tuesday Group

Queen

Ladies! If you are free on the first Tuesday of the

We start at 10am – noon for coffee/tea & Biscuits and then at 10.30 we have interesting talks from a variety of speakers. New members and visitors are very welcome.

Membership for 2025 - £20

First Visit as a guest £2 Members:

1 July – The Southwest Coastal Path Speaker: Gary Holpin

5 August – Cream Tea Speaker: Richard Kay – Lawrence’s

For more information please contact Marion Chapman 01963 220741

Bakers Executive Coach Travel

local coach day-trip specialists

Bideford for the day (HALF FULL) 5th Jul

Minehead & Lynmouth (HALF FULL) 15th Jul

Iford Manor & Warminster 29th Jul

Taunton Flower Show 2nd Aug

Teignmouth 5th Aug

Bridport Market & Seaton 9th Aug

River Exe Cruise – 11th Aug

West Bay & Weymouth (HALF FULL) 14th Aug

Hestercombe House & Gardens 16th Aug

Canonteign Falls & Exeter 19th Aug

Lyme Regis (HALF FULL) 28th Aug

Dorchester Market & Sculptor 3rd Sept

Jurassic Coast Cruise 20th Sept

SENIORS: 65+

Pick Ups in Yeovil, Martock, Cartgate Picnic Area, Somerton, Sherborne, Wincanton & Sparkford www.bakerscoaches-somerset.co.uk – 01935 428401 office@bakerscoaches-somerset.co.uk www.facebook.com/bakerscoachesyeovilsomerset/

Anyone for badminton?

Would you be interested in playing this sport for fun?

Rimpton Badminton Club would like to encourage new members for weekly or occasional games.

We play on a Wednesday evening from 7.00 – 8.30pm in Rimpton Village Hall BA22 8AD.

We have one court and if more than four people turn up, we rotate so you should get to play a few games and have a breather in between! There are no membership fees and no commitments; just turn up and play for £2 a session. The standard is moderate and beginners are welcome.

If you are interested in any way, please drop me an e-mail: Mr Lindsey Maguire: Lindsey@studio-6.co.uk or give me a call on 07903 297712.

Image

Heal and Sole Holistics

Complementary, holistic therapists, Julia and Kevin Stevens of Heal and Sole Holistics in Castle Cary have been helping their clients manage chronic health conditions and maintain a great feeling of well-being for over 12 years. Their cosy and peaceful treatment room is situated in a pretty garden setting and benefits from a state of the art, electrically adjustable treatment couch with the option of heating, offering the ultimate in luxury and comfort.

Holistic therapies are natural, gentle and non-invasive. They treat the whole person rather than a specific part or condition and can alleviate the effects of stress, induce deep relaxation, boost the immune system, rebalance the body’s energy flow and support the body’s natural ability to heal itself. They are safe to use alongside conventional medical treatment and can help with a wide range of physical, mental and emotional health conditions.

Reflexology

Reflexology is a touch therapy based on the theory that different points on the feet, lower leg, hands, face or ears correspond with different areas of the body and reflexologists work these points through the application of pressure using specific thumb and finger techniques. Julia also specialises in Reflexology Lymph Drainage an advanced technique which is not only excellent for lymphoedema, but also many other autoimmune and inflammatory conditions including arthritis and fibromyalgia.

Reiki

Life Force Energy runs throughout our bodies through energetic channels or pathways called Meridians. These channels can easily become blocked through stress, emotions, trauma or illness, causing the body to function less efficiently.

Reiki aims to release the energy blockages and direct the free flow of energy throughout the body to bring about self-healing and normalise the functions of the body.

Reiki is a very gentle healing technique, carried out by the practitioner placing their hands on or over a person with the intent to channel Reiki energy. It is not a form of massage and no manipulation takes place.

Kevin is a Reiki Master Professional Practitioner. His many years of dedicated study and practice give him the intuition to provide a bespoke healing treatment tailored for his client’s specific needs.

Indian Head Massage

This massage works the major muscle groups of the shoulders, neck, head and face, to release stress and tension

which can improve headaches, migraines and eye strain.

Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT

Tapping)

EFT aims to release negative emotions and blocked energy, by stimulating the meridian points. Tapping on specific meridian points using the fingertips, whilst focusing on the issue, is thought to neutralise the emotional block in the energy system. It is one of the simplest and fastest ways to heal from almost any kind of trauma and is commonly used to help with stress, depression, anxiety, panic attacks, the effects of trauma and abuse, addictions, PTSD, fears and phobias and pain management.

FURTHER INFORMATION

Station Road, Castle Cary, Somerset

07356 240382 www.healandsole.co.uk

Relax. Breathe. Restore.

Salt Room - Halotherapy (Salt Therapy) Buteyko Breathing Technique

Caring, calming, supportive

Caring, calming, suppor7ve

Buteyko Breathing Technique

Caring, calming, suppor7ve

Helping with Respiratory Conditions, Asthma, Anxiety, Breathing Pattern Disorders, Long Covid & more.

Helping with Respiratory Condi?ons, Asthma, Anxiety, Breathing PaDern Disorders, Long Covid & more.

Helping with Respiratory Condi?ons, Asthma, more.

Old School, High Street, Queen Camel. BA22 7NH. 07368 986972

hello@halobreathingspace.co.uk halobreathingspace.co.uk

Old School, High Street, Queen Camel. BA22 7NH. 07368 986972 hello@halobreathingspace.co.uk halobreathingspace.co.uk

Old School, High Street, Queen Camel. 07368 986972

hello@halobreathingspace.co.uk halobreathingspace.co.uk

Relax. Breathe. Restore.

Salt Room

Halotherapy (Salt Therapy)

THE TEN CHURCHES OF THE CADBURYS AND CAMELS

Sunday 6th July Yarlington 9.00am Breakfast Church

3rd Sunday Queen Camel 9.30am All Age Service after Trinity North Cadbury 11.00am Holy Communion (CW)

West Camel 4.00pm Tea @ Four

Sunday 13th July Galhampton 9.30am Holy Communion (BCP)

4th Sunday Corton Denham 11.00am Holy Communion (CW)

after Trinity

Sutton Montis 11.00am Morning Worship

West Camel 6.00pm Methodist Service

Tuesday 15th July South Cadbury 12 noon Holy Communion (BCP)

Sunday 20th July Queen Camel 9.30am Holy Communion (CW)

5th Sunday North Cadbury 11.00am Sunday Worship after Trinity Sparkford 11.00am Holy Communion (BCP)

Weston Bampfylde 11.00am Morning Worship

West Camel 6.00pm Methodist Service

Yarlington 6.30pm Sung Evensong (BCP)

Sunday 27th July South Cadbury 9.30am Morning Worship

6th Sunday West Camel 9.30am Holy Communion (BCP)

after Trinity North Cadbury 11.00am Holy Communion (CW)

West Camel 6.00pm Methodist Service

Galhampton 6.30pm Evening Service

Sunday 3rd August Yarlington 9.00am Holy Communion (BCP)

7th Sunday Queen Camel 9.30am All Age Service after Trinity North Cadbury 11.00am Holy Communion (CW)

West Camel 4.00pm Tea @ Four

Sunday 10th August Galhampton 9.30am Holy Communion (BCP)

8th Sunday Corton Denham 11.00am Morning Worship

after Trinity Sutton Montis 11.00am Holy Communion (CW)

West Camel 6.00pm Methodist Service

Sunday 17th August Queen Camel 9.30am Holy Communion (BCP)

9th Sunday North Cadbury 11.00am Sunday Worship

after Trinity Sparkford 11.00am Holy Communion (BCP)

West Camel 6.00pm Methodist Service

Yarlington 6.30pm

Sung Evensong (BCP)

Tuesday 19th August South Cadbury 12 noon

Holy Communion (BCP)

Sunday 24th August South Cadbury 9.30am Holy Communion (BCP)

10th Sunday North Cadbury 11.00am Holy Communion (CW) after Trinity West Camel 11.00am Morning Worship West Camel 6.00pm Methodist Service

Galhampton 6.30pm Evening Service

Sunday 31st August North Cadbury 10.30am United Benefice Service

11th Sunday West Camel 6.00pm United Service

after Trinity

Registers:

5th April Burial of Ashes

8th April Funeral

11th April Funeral

11th April Burial of Ashes

24th April Funeral

19th May Funeral

Mid Week Holy Communion

Every third Tuesday we are holding a said bcp Holy Communion service at St Thomas a Becket, South Cadbury

Albert William Haines

St Mary Magdalene, Sparkford

Marlene Peggy St Mary the Virgin, Yarlington Masters-Harding

Michael Daniel Cook St Michael’s, North Cadbury

Marion Lucy Raymond

Pamela Margaret Case

Kenneth Henry Croom

Every third Tuesday we are holding a said bcp Holy Communion service at St Thomas a Becket, South Cadbury

Why not come and join us? 12 noon

followed by (optional) lunch at the Camelot Pub

Next one is - June 17th 12 noon

Mid Week Holy Communion

St Thomas a Becket, South Cadbury

All Saints, West Camel

St Barnabas, Queen Camel

Every third Tuesday we said bcp Holy Communion St Thomas a Becket, Why not come and 12 noon followed by (optional) Camelot Pub

Next one is - June 17th

Further details Caroline Walker carolinehwalker@btinternet.com

Next one is - June 17th 12 noon

Further details Caroline Walker carolinehwalker@btinternet.com

HAROLD F. MILES

FUNERAL DIRECTOR FAMILY RUN BUSINESS

All arrangements made

24-Hour service

Private Chapel of Rest

Pre-paid Funeral Plans

Winton Cottage

South Cadbury

Tel: 01963 440367

Plastering•Limework •Floor Screeding Plumbing • Electrics • Carpentry Groundworks • Local Stone Masonry

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 www.modernandtraditional.co.uk

Wildlife gardens & meadows Expert gardening Plant care & advice Garden & planting design

Higher Farm

Higher Farm is part of a growing movement of regenerative farming here in Somerset.

Just outside Castle Cary, this 50-acre farm was once a rundown dairy. Since taking it on in 2023, brothers Giacomo and Matteo have been working to bring it back to life. They’ve planted over 2,000 trees, increased biodiversity by more than 10 per cent and are showing how farming can be a force for renewal.

At the centre of the farm is The Farm Caff, a table-to-farm restaurant that turns the usual idea on its head. Chefs and growers work side by side, with the week’s harvest guiding what ends up on the plate. The kitchen is led by George Barson, whose ingredient-led cooking has earned the restaurant a place in both the Good Food Guide and

the Michelin Guide. Menus change weekly, shaped entirely by what the farm, local gamekeepers, foragers and like-minded producers can provide. This summer, Higher Farm is open for visitors to come and experience the land through seasonal experiences. Alongside the Courtyard Bar, there will be guest chef dinners, guided farm tours, wild swimming and boating at the lake, and plenty for families to enjoy, from feeding animals to exploring the new jungle gym. Later in the season, look out for craft and community workshops. For those who want to stay longer, the Nature Cabins offer a peaceful overnight stay surrounded by the Somerset hills.

“

Chefs and growers work side by side, with the week’s harvest guiding what ends up on the plate.”

Images with thanks to Dave Watts, Dave Watts Photography, Castle Cary www.wattsdave.com

For opening times and to book a table visit www.higher-farm.co.uk

Higher Farm, Shepton Mallet BA4 6QF p: 07879 922943

CONSULT A PRIVATE GP

Consultations

Prescriptions

Blood tests & investigations

Cardiovascular tests

Cancer screening tests

Well woman checks, to include HRT prescribing, osteoporosis assessments, breast screening, smear tests as appropriate

Well man checks, including prostate cancer screening

Lifestyle & weight

management advice and medication

Children and all ages welcome

Home visits available

The Poundbury Clinic Middlemarsh Street, Poundbury, Dorchester, DT1 3FD

01935 609453

01935 384234

The Kingston Wing, Yeovil Hospital, Higher Kingston, Yeovil, Somerset, BA21 4AT

clinic@wessexprivategp.co.uk

wessexprivategp.co.uk

THE GARDENER

by Salley Vickers, Penguin 2021

Review by Claire Brooker, Bailey Hill Book Shop, Castle Cary

Agood read for Spring and early Summer. Salley Vickers wrote The Gardener during the Covid 19 lockdown and its first-person narrative reflects the inner andouter discoveries made by many people at that time.

Hassie Days, has just moved to Knights Fee, a rambling house she’s bought withher older sister following their father’s death. Vickers’ descriptions and details bring itto life: the shed’s dangling light bulb hangs from a wire that would have put anyhealth and safety officer into a frenzy, whilst a butterfly in the attic has wings patterned like a tiny exquisite Persian carpet.

As Hassie embraces village life in Hope Wenlock and meets the delightfully eccentric local, she encounters friendship and prejudice, hope and fear; she grows and heals through the changing seasons, wildlife and history all around her.

Vickers’ characters are deftly drawn and skilfully developed as the story unfolds. No stereotypes here, but individuals portrayed with warmth, humour and insightful dialogue. After a relatively slow start, I was drawn in: I cared what happened to them and was not disappointed.

This is a beautifully crafted and deceptively powerful novel from the author of Miss Garnett’s Angel and The Cleaner of Chartres.

BAILEY HILL BOOKSHOP

NEW l SECOND HAND l RARE BOOKS FORE STREET CASTLE CARY BA7 7BG l TEL 01963 350917

WE ARE OPEN MONDAY - SATURDAY 9AM TO 4PM

A Family Guide to Seasonal Fun in Sparkford

Joining us in our September/October issue of The Spark Magazine is Sarah White, who lives in Sparkford and runs a blog for mums who need a bit of TLC!

Sarah will be presenting regular articles in The Spark Magazine for local mums called – ‘A Mum’s guide to Sparkford’ with fun things to do with children in and around the village both indoors and outdoors!

A monthly peek into family life, local happenings and seasonal fun around our beautiful village.

Sarah also runs a blog called ‘Whimsical Mumblings’ and you can find out more about her on her website www.whimsicalmumblings.co.uk

Old

Carolyn Coleman

Mobile Hairdressing Service

Specialist colour service with optional Olaplex treatments.

Fabulous hair extensions service with 80 colours to choose from and many more pampering treatments.

To book an appointment, please call Carolyn on 07701 299898

e: carrcoleman28@gmail.com

Follow me on Facebook TLC HAIR PAGE

SCOUTS (101/2 - 14 Years)

Tues. 7.15pm-9pm

Scott Austin

asl@sparkfordscouts.org.uk

CUBS (8 - 10¹/² Years)

Mon 6.30pm-8pm

Lucia Atkinson

csl@sparkfordscouts.org.uk

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION

BEAVERS (6-8 Years)

Tues. 6pm-7pm

Anne Tuck

bsl@sparkfordscouts.org.uk

EXPLORER SCOUTS (14-18 Years)

Alternative Thurs.

Kevin Davis

sl@sparkfordscouts.org.uk

Please contact Anne Tuck on 07538 502812 | www.sparkfordscouts.org.uk

The Vantage Park Welcome

Centre is now officially open to everyone!

Brothers, Larry and Royston, company directors at Piper Trimmers would like to extend their thanks to the Parish Council and locals for all their support. They are thrilled to officially open the Welcome Centre and welcome you for a coffee and a cake! The Welcome Centre is open daily Monday-Friday 9am – 5pm, and Saturday mornings 9am-12pm, serving a range of freshly prepared hot and cold drinks, cakes and snacks and ice creams. Everyone is welcome, including dogs!

Having been in business for more than 28 years, Larry and Royston have now successfully developed Vantage Park which hosts some fantastic independent businesses and have since created multiple job opportunities within the village. The businesses are all linked to the automotive industry, with a particular specialism in high end, prestigious and classic vehicles. The associated nature of the individual enterprises is unique, offering a one stop service to many customers. Along with the Welcome Centre, businesses on site include Piper Trimmers - who specialise in car trimming and furniture

upholstery - Churchill and Thomas Car Storage, Lavant Restoration –specialising in restoration of classic and sports cars, GSW Car Sales, to name but a few, so it is well worth a visit!

For a full list of all the businesses located at Vantage Park and any future events, including the monthly Cars and Coffee event where you can grab a coffee and a bacon roll, relax and chat to other like-minded people, please head to the Vantage Park website www.vantage-park.com

Vantage Park, Goodwood Drive, Sparkford, Somerset BA22 7FQ

Expert Lawn Care Services

Achieve a lush, green lawn with our professional care solutions:

Seasonal Fertilisers – Keep your lawn nourished year-round

Herbicide Application – Control unwanted weeds effectively

Scarification – Remove thatch & improve grass health

Aeration – Enhance soil drainage & root growth

Pest, Disease & Fungus Control – Protect your lawn from damage

Top Dressing & Re-Seeding – Restore thin or patchy areas

Re-Turfing – Get an instant, fresh lawn makeover

Hard Surface Weed Spraying – Maintain driveways & patios weed-free

Coronation Chicken

Ingredients:

Cooked Chicken

500 g

Mayonnaise/Crème Fraiche 4-6 tbls

Medium Curry Powder 2-3 tsps

Mango Chutney 2 tbls

Sultanas 1-3 tbls

Black Pepper Pinch

Sea Salt Pinch to taste

10-12 Minutes

Method:

1. Mix mayonnaise (or crème fraiche), curry powder, chutney & sultanas together

2. Season with sea salt & black pepper.

3. Stir in chicken pieces – add a little water if too thick –

4. Ideal for a summer’s supper served with sliced apples, salad and rice (optional)!

If you have an easy recipe to share, please contact Jackie @ jpbristowbristow@gmail.com

Sudoku

ISSUE 7 ANSWER 2025 Issue 7 answers

At JLH, we bring timeless craftsmanship to every project. Specializing in traditional lime mortar work, restoration and drystone walling.

We combine years of experience with a deep respect for traditional building methods and quality finishes that stand the test of time.

Stone cladding, boundary / garden walls, features, traditional and contemporary stone cladding, rendering, plastering, painting and decorating, brickwork, rendering and paving.

From stone walling to complete decorative finishes and full house renovations — we’ve got you covered. Whether you're restoring a historic property or enhancing your outdoor space, we deliver skilled craftsmanship with attention to every detail.

Contact JLH Traditional Stone Works & Landscaping today – where tradition meets excellence.

Based in South Somerset. Small and Large projects undertaken. CSCS registered.

Our Services include:

• Lime Mortar and Restoration

• Drystone Walling and All Types of Stonework

• Repairs / Insurance work

• Landscaping

• Brickwork, rendering

• Plastering, Painting and Decorating

• Fencing

• Full renovations

Our work is built to last – blending seamlessly into natural and historic surroundings.

Pets Corner

Cats At Home Care Services

Going on holiday or maybe into hospital?

Let me look after your cats in their familiar surroundings. I have 47 years experience of looking after cats.

• Booking flexible, tailored & guaranteed

• Medications given

• Enhanced DBS.

• Text updates while you are away

• Your property will be secure

Looked after professionally with love and care for your cats, as though they are mine.

Tel: 07748 775657 for further information | www.happycatservices.co.uk

Delaware Veterinary Group is now officially “Puppy Friendly”

Introducing the pitter patter of puppy paws into your home can not only be extremely exciting, but incredibly daunting for all new parents of our fourlegged friends. With this in mind, we wanted to be able to provide all of our puppy owners with the perfect package of healthcare and behaviour advice, ensuring they are armed with the essential information to produce their very own model canine citizen.

After meeting the standards required, we are proud to announce that Delaware Veterinary Group, Castle Cary is now officially “Puppy Friendly”.

Any new pup joining the practice will not only receive the standard health check and primary vaccination from a member of our fabulous vet team, but also a 30-minute “Puppy Chat” with an experienced nurse who has completed “Puppy Friendly” training. A wealth of knowledge will be shared during this consultation, whilst your new bundle of fun will be encouraged to relax on a cosy bed with a puppy safe toy filled with lip-smacking puppy safe treats. Each new parent will be provided with A Puppy Owner’s handbook, vouchers for discounted Adaptil Collars and £85 worth of online puppy courses including “The Perfect Puppy Owner Course” and “The 5-day Sleep Challenge” so you can have

a puppy that sleeps through the night and settles happily in the day in just 5 days!

Our Puppy Friendly Status allows us to provide all of this information completely free of charge.

We are continuing to run our successful Puppy Preschool with some fresh content to compliment all of the free information from the online courses. Join us for preschool on a Thursday evening at the practice to explore more about all aspects of learning theory and reward, canine body language and basic handling for a fear free future both at home and within practice. There will be closely monitored off lead play, skin & coat care from a professional dog groomer and training on basic first aid, with your very own first aid kit to take home.

Call the practice on 01963 350307 to register your interest and ensure that your pup is putting their best paw forward when they take their first steps into their exciting new world.

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

Queen Camel Tennis Club OPEN DAY

Saturday 12th July: 9am – 2pm

Join us for some FREE tennis activities and coaching !

9.00am – 9.45am – Red Ball (ages 5-8 yrs)

9.45am – 10.30am – Orange Ball (ages 8 – 10yrs)

10.30am – 11.15am – Green Ball/Yellow Ball (ages 11+)

11.15am – 2pm open courts for social & family tennis

* Children under 14 years must be accompanied. Rackets are available to borrow.

Refreshments available throughout

Queen Camel Tennis Club is a friendly and sociable two-court Club with floodlights. We enjoy competitive & social play and have a great coaching programme including Saturday mornings for children from 5 upwards and for adults Wednesday evenings.

In addition to our regular Club Night on Tuesday evenings, we also have Club morning sessions on the first and third Sunday of every month at 10am until noon. All members welcome.

Queen Camel Tennis Club, The Playing Fields, Green Lane, Queen Camel BA22 7NW www.clubspark.lta.org.uk/QueenCamelTennis Club

Imagine...

Sitting in the sunshine on a comfortable bench overlooking a lovely lawn maybe with a cup of tea of coffee or a glass of beer in your hand. Would this be considered to be boring? Looking more closely the lawn is remarkably flat and very well-tended. There are well dressed people bowling their woods towards the jack. You now notice the bias which makes the woods curl either to the left or to the right as they travel up or down the green. This Is a wonderful way

We offer a traditional window cleaning Service. Please ‘phone us for a quote.

Car cleaning service brought to you home Cars - £40 : 4 x 4s - £50 (Price is inside and outside)

We sell the following products available for your garden or allotments:

Mushroom compost: 60 litre bags – £8 each 900 litres loose - £90

Rotted horse manure:

900 litres loose £60

Woodchip: 900 litres loose £80

Please call Jess or Charlotte for more information about any of the above services on 07724 455128

to enjoy bowls with a view of becoming a member of Queen Camel Bowls Club.

On Tuesdays in the late afternoon our players practice and this becomes a regular social evening where any member may use the subsidised bar and chat.

Should you be interested in participating our qualified coach could give you a free lesson (upon application) to see if you would like to become a full member and even to compete, in a very friendly way, with other local bowls clubs.

For any further details, please contact the Club Secretary – Simon Stapely, either at queencamelbowlsclub@gmail.com or telephone 01935 850563

The Clubhouse, Englands Lane, Queen Camel.

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

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Self-Store

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White Horse Valley

Bratton, Wiltshire, BA13 4TB

Discover White Horse Valley, an exciting new development of 2, 3, and 4-bedroom homes nestled in the heart of the highly soughtafter village of Bratton, Wiltshire. Brought to you by award winning developers Ashford Homes, this carefully designed collection blends timeless craftsmanship with modern living.

Set on the edge of Salisbury Plain, Bratton offers stunning countryside views, a vibrant community, and a rich local heritage including the iconic Westbury White Horse and Bratton Camp Iron Age hill fort. Residents will enjoy convenient village amenities such as Central Stores with Post Office and bakery, a welcoming village pub, Bratton Surgery, and local attractions including Fitzroy Farm’s café, hairdresser, and garden centre. The village also features two active community halls, a thriving social calendar, and expansive recreational facilities with cricket and football pitches.

Bratton’s location offers the best of both worlds – rural charm with excellent access to nearby towns and cities. Just 2.5 miles from Westbury, with its rail links to Bath, Bristol, London, and the South West, and a short drive to Trowbridge, Bath, Salisbury, and Swindon.

Perfect for families, professionals, and downsizers alike, White Horse Valley is the ideal place to call home.

01225 791155

ashford-homes.co.uk