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Welcome

to the September/October Edition of The Spark Magazine 2024 Issue 3 www.sparkmagazinesparkford.co.uk

Many thanks to all of you who have commented on the July/August issue of The Spark Magazine. We really appreciate all your input and encouragement!

In this issue, we are including an article about Hazlegrove School, Sparkford. Hazlegrove House was acquired by Sir Walter Mildmay in 1556. The oak trees at Hazlegrove must date from the Middle Ages. The school continues to be extremely popular. Please see pages 12 to 16.

The lovely artwork on the front cover is by Katy Rundle, who is a fabric artist. Her daughters went to Hazlegrove School and they recently left King’s In Bruton. The family now live in Hampshire. See page 17.

Did you know that we have an exprofessional rugby player in our midst?!

GET IN TOUCH

Please get in touch if you have any events that you would like us to publish in the November/December 2024 issue – we will need all contributions and advertisements by the end of September and artwork (in high resolution 300dpi) by the 5th October. Jackie Bristow jpbristowbristow@gmail.com 01963 361753

Sam Nixon, who lives in Sparkford, has had to retire due to injury and now helps run his family farm. See pages 24 & 25.

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!

SPARKFORD PARISH COUNCIL

Chairman (Elected 8 May 2024):

Mr Ken Flood kflood1612@hotmail.com 07484 182390

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

Clerk: Mrs Lisa Davis sparkford.clerk@gmail.com

Somerset Councillors: Mr Henry Hobhouse henry.hobhouse@southsomerset.gov.uk 07970 867108

Mr Kevin Messenger kevin.messenger@somerset.gov.uk 07969 150646

USEFUL CONTACTS

Anne Tuck (Beavers) 07538 502812

Victoria Rogers (Hall) 01963 440475

Caz (Playing Field) 07841 470237

Karen (Playing Field) 07506 250359

Jon King-Brain (Cricket) 0791 449 4330

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

(See article pgs. 20 & 21)

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

Wednesdays

Art 2pm – 4pm

Contact: George Lawson 01963 440551

Jaya Jaks Yoga 6.30pm – 7.30pm

Contact: jayajaks21@gmail.com 07974 681422

Thursdays

Explorers

Somerset Mobile Library

Village Hall Carpark

Fridays

Bingo

Every 2nd Friday of the month

Friday 27 September 10-12 noon – Annual McMillan Coffee Morning –Cake Stall & Raffle

All proceeds to McMillan Support

Contact Victoria 770475 or Alison 440577

Various days

Fitness & Boxing

Please contact: Gemma Ruegg 0788 031 1969

Forthcoming Event

1 December 2-5pm

Christmas Fayre

Contact Victoria 440475 or Alison 440577

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.

Don’t let your hedge become a hazard

Keeping hedges, trees and vegetation cut back regularly helps to make sure that our public footpaths and highways are safe and accessible for everyone to use.

If the pavement or footway is narrow or the obstruction is excessive, pedestrians may be forced into the road – this is particularly dangerous for wheelchair users or people pushing a pushchair or buggy.

If you have hedges, trees and/or vegetation next to the highway that need cutting back, this generally means that they should not overhang or encroach onto public footpaths or highways.

What should owners/occupiers do?

Check your own trees and hedges.

• Are they overhanging the footpath or boundary of your property?

• Are they affecting visibility for road users? If so, cut them back (or arrange to have them cut back) as soon as possible.

Is it the wrong time of year to prune my tree/hedge. Can I leave it until later? Most pruning to clear the highway is minor and will not damage the tree, regardless of the time of year. Consideration must be given to nesting birds and hedges must not have a drastic cut between March to September.

What will happen if I don’t cut my hedge?

It is an offence under the Highways Act 1980 to allow trees, hedges, shrubs and so on to obstruct the highway. Somerset Council may, after an initial request serve a Notice on you, the occupier, to cut back the offending vegetation.

Message from Mr Ken Flood, Chairman, Parish Council

We are paying for contractors to come and cut verges and hedges in the village as it is getting very dangerous for people to walk on the pavements.

A flyer has been put through the letter boxes of some of the private properties that are overgrown. (If anyone does not want their verges/hedges cut back, please contact the Parish Clerk or ‘phone 07484 182390. (If we do not hear, we will assume that the land owner is happy for us to go ahead).

We are not allowed to cut verges and hedges if it is private property and the owner doesn’t want us to. However, if we are asked not to and nothing is done, they can be reported to Somerset Council who may possibly issue an order to have it attended to.

We will be carrying out this work at no cost to the land owners as it will be paid for by the Parish Council.

We have a meeting coming up with the Environmental Agency regarding installing Radar on the river Cam which will give us warnings when the river is rising to flood levels.

About 3-4 months ago during the high winds and floods a large tree on Montgomery’s land came down fell across the river bringing down with it a couple of smaller ones and blocking the entrance to Daisy Wood. A narrow path has been cleared but the entrance is still limited, so even though some strimming has been done, we can’t get the other machinery in to cut the grass etc. Therefore various activities have been stopped, ie Scout and Cubs. So until the tree is cut up and removed the entrance is limited.

Obviously, because of the rainfall we’ve had, it’s been too wet to get the proper machinery in to cut it up. At the moment, Rory Montgomery is very busy with combining but will cut the tree up and remove the wood towards end of September 2024.

LATEST PLANNING APPLICATION

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

Forthcoming events Sept-Oct

Sparkford (S), Queen Camel (QC), West Camel (WC), North Cadbury (NC) Marston Magna (MM), Castle Cary (CC), Wincanton (W)Y Yeovil (Y)

WC Sept St Michael’s Scottish Country Dancing Club – Davis Hall www.stmichaelsscdclub.org contact Elspeth: Elspeth_a_wright@hotmail.com p: 07972 125617

QC 2 Sept Open Pathway Retreat Centre – AquaMove weekly – 2.30pm

QC 3 Sept Open Pathway Retreat Centre – Taize evening – 7pm songs and readings

QC 3 Sept Tuesday Group – Village Hall – Breast Cancer Care - 10am

CC 4 Sept Caryford Hall – “What’s in a Name?” – talk by Castle Gardens – 7.30pm – 9.30pm ccgardeningassociation@gmail.com - www.castlecarygardening.com

QC 6 Sept Open Pathway Retreat Centre – Yoga classes weekly 9.30am

CC 7 Sept Vintage Market – The Market House 10am – 3pm

QC 7/8 Sept Open Pathway Retreat Centre – Kindness & Self Compassion Retreat

S 10 Sept Coffee Morning – Sparkford Parish Hall – All ages welcome

CC 14 Sept Coffee Morning – Rainbows – The Market House

W 14 Sept Wild & Green Community Day 10.30am – 2.30pm – Balsam Centre

CC 15 Sept 4pm – 6pm – Caryford Hall – David Saunders & Harry Skinner – Acoustic Blues

QC 21/22 Sept Open Pathway Retreat Centre – Meditation Course Part 1

QC 24 Sept Open Pathway Retreat Centre – Sound Bath 6.45pm

Y 26 Sept Jobs Fair – 10.30am – 3.00pm www.jobfairssouthwest.co.uk

S 27 Sept Village Hall - Annual McMillan Coffee Morning – Cake Stall & Raffle 10-12noon

W 28 Sept Repair Café – 10am – 12.30pm – Balsam Centre

QC 28 Sept Open Pathway Retreat Centre – Yoga & Bones for Life Day

CC 28 Sept McMillan Coffee Morning – The Market House

QC 29 Sept Open Pathway Retreat Centre – Meditation Course Part 2

QC 1 Oct Tuesday Group – Village Hall – Montacute Tapestries – 10am

QC 1 Oct Open Pathway Retreat Centre – Taize evening 7pm – Songs & Readings

CC 2 Oct Caryford Hall “A Short History of Food Growing” – 7.30pm – 9.30pm

CC 3 Oct Caryford Hall – Flower Arranging – www.caryfordhall.co.uk

QC 4/6 Oct Open Pathway Retreat Centre – Silent Retreat

CC 5 Oct Children’s Carnival & Coffee Morning – The Market House

CC 12 Oct Somerset Beekeepers’ Honey Show –Tony Johnstone – 07973 341557 SBKA

CC 12 Oct Castle Cary Ansford Evening Carnival – www.ccacs.org.uk

QC 12/13 Oct Open Pathway Retreat Centre – Animal Energy Therapy

QC 14/17 Oct Open Pathway Retreat Centre – Mediation Course Parts 1 & 2

CC 19 Oct Guy Davis – www.caryfordhall.co.uk

CC 19 Oct Coffee Morning & Book Sale – The Market House - 9.30am – 12pm

QC 22 Oct Open Pathway Retreat Centre – Sound Bath 6.45pm

W 26 Oct Repair Café – 10am – 12.30pm – Balsam Centre

CC 26 Oct The Market House – Coffee morning in aid of Toybox Pre-school – 9.30-am -12pm

CC 30 Oct Caryford Hall – Life in the UN – www.caryfordhall.co.uk

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

Cam Vale Tuesday Group

Queen Camel Memorial Hall

An entertaining talk from Jenny Barham on making garlands. She makes them for every occasion using recycled fabrics. She includes fruit nets, wool, crepe paper, bits from crackers, the insides of old pillows (washed first of course), scarves, ribbons and every type of fabric maginable, even leather.

Her husband complained that his hosepipe had suddenly become much shorter. Jenny had cut some off for one of her bigger garlands. I don’t really think that is what recycling means!

We meet on the first Tuesday of the month at Queen Camel Memorial Hall at 10am. We welcome new members and visitors.

Membership for 2024/2025

£20 – First Visit as a guest £2 – Members £1.50 (including raffle & refreshments).

For more information please contact Marion Chapman 01963 220741.

Coming Up:

3 September: Breast Cancer Care

Speakers: Maggie Hague & Sue Greenwood (please bring along any unwanted jewellery).

1 October: Montacute Tapestries Speaker: Sonja Roberts

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

Autumn shade solutions

As we head towards Autumn and we can hopefully enjoy an Indian summer, our thoughts may turn towards getting our summer cars, caravans and motorhomes away for the winter months.

Our range of carports can be free standing or lean-to off the side of your home, and with optional sides are perfect for keeping your pride and joy dry and protected whilst not in use.

You can also create covered walkways along

the side of your home, keeping you dry when walking to and from garden buildings or your car. If you would like to extend your outdoor space to use all year round, our range of glass or polycarbonate roof Verandas with optional sides, heating and

lighting make a perfect addition to your home. We offer a complete professional service from our home visit to installation for Blinds, Plantation Shutters, Awnings, Verandas and so much more…

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

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

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

Call us on 07879 992000 or visit www.lizziepriceshadingsolutions.co.uk

All aspects of Modern and Traditional Renovation & Plasterwork

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

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

Hazlegrove School

Hazlegrove, Sparkford, Somerset BA22 7JA

The school’s history reaches back in time to 1519 during the reign of Henry VIII and as part of the King’s School Bruton Foundation, Hazlegrove is part of an educational lineage which spans nearly five centuries. The school was founded by Richard Fitzjames (Bishop of London) and his nephew John Fitzjames of Redlynch (later to become Chief Justice of the King’s Bench) whose family crest incorporated the bearded dolphin which remains part of the school crest today.

The date of the Tudor house is uncertain, but it is probable that it was built in the time of Henry VIII. The fine original plaster ceiling shows the Tudor Rose and also the Pomegranate, which

is generally associated with Catherine of Aragon.

After only twenty years of existence, the school was closed with the dissolution of the Monasteries resulting with the surrender of the Abbey including all the endowments of the school to the King (Henry VIII until 1547, and then Edward VI, his son). For ten years the school ceased to exist until a “humble petition” was presented to Edward VI requesting him to restore the endowments of the school. This was granted with the school being called the Free Grammar School of King Edward the Sixth. This Royal Foundation led to a crown being placed above the dolphin on the school crest.

* The picture of the school gates kindly supplied by Hazlegrove School

The original endowments of the school were re-granted to a Corporation that was to consist of twelve governors. Indeed, it may be the first school ever to have a Governing Body with an unbroken record of the proceedings of the meetings of the Governors dating back to 1553.

The Junior School was moved to Hazlegrove House, after the Second World War in 1947, to be able to satisfy the increasing demand for places. Today, about 40 per cent of the pupils (Year 8s) leaving Hazlegrove continue their education at King’s which is also co-educational and situated within the attractive town of Bruton, nine miles to the North East of Hazlegrove.

In 1948, Henry Bruton was appointed Headmaster. Hazlegrove was a busy, thriving place from the start with eighty boys enjoying the rapid conversion of a stately home into a school. Once a fortnight in the summer term, a friendly train driver agreed to stop his engine at Sparkford Station (which was converted into Haynes Publishing Company) to take the boys up the line to Bruton for a swim!

From the park of Hazlegrove, there is a fine view of Glastonbury Tor and Cadbury Castle can also be seen to the east. If Cadbury was in fact Camelot, then the village of Camel and the park of Hazlegrove lay very much at the centre of King Arthur’s activity. At the time of the Norman conquest, the manor was held in the 11th Century by Gytha, the widow of Earl Godwin and mother of King Harold. In 1866-90 it was claimed that

Gytha was at Queen Camel when she heard the news of Harold’s death at Hastings. Apart from the Doomsday reference, the evidence for this is uncertain.

In 1299 Manor and Park was valued at £60. In 1558 it was acquired by Sir Walter Mildmay from the Crown for a considerable amount of money! It is very doubtful whether he ever lived there, preferring his residence at Apethorpe in Northamptonshire!

The land was inherited by Sir Humphrey Mildmay (knighted in 1616) who again did not live at Hazlegrove but in Danbury, Essex. It was inherited in 1690 by his cousin, Carew Hervey Mildmay of Marks in Essex, who in turn bequeathed it to his great grandson, who was also called Carew Hervey Mildmay of Marks and Hazlegrove. He lived there and made the most contribution to the house and grounds.

In 1730-1732 the house was remodelled for Sir Carew Hervey Mildmay. The Elizabethan façade was replaced by an 18th Century one. Although he spent a great deal of time in London, he took tremendous interest in his Somerset estate. From 1740 – the estate continued to be passed on from generation to generation and in 1872 a new lodge was built and a new entrance using the archway brought from Ham from John Stawell’s house, (MP for Somerset 1625 – 1662).

In 1904 Rev. Arundell Charles Mildmay dies and the house was let until the First World War, when it was empty for a couple of years.

In 1913 a Somerset Archaeology Society visit to Hazlegrove records a park “of great antiquity”, judged by the size of some of the oak trees – one being 32 feet in girth and several others not much less! The King John’s Oak which is thought to be nearly 1000 years old with a 32ft girth. The Aragon Room with its original plaster ceiling, showing the Tudor rose and pomegranate, suggesting the house may have been built in the time of Catherine of Aragon.

A Roman coin dating from the late IIIrd Century A.D. was found in the kitchen garden; a dig was made in this area but no further Roman finds have been made. The coin does not prove the presence of a Roman dwelling at Hazlegrove and may have been dropped there, or even brought to the garden in a load of top soil. However, there is very substantial evidence for a habitation in about the XIIth century.

The house had various tenants. In 1939-45 the House was used as a Convalescent Home by The Red Cross. A classroom block was built in 1948 and numbers steadily increased. In 1952

Portrait of Sir Walter Mildmay (1520 – 1589)reproduced courtesy of The Master and Fellows of Emmanuel College, Cambridge

Henry Bruton emigrated to New Zealand and was succeeded by Robin Lankester. When, in 1954, a swimming pool was being dug to the south of the house, foundations and pottery of various periods were found. As the dig proceeded, pottery, nails, glass, bones of animals and finds of many descriptions were unearthed. When the deep end of the pool was dug, slabs of about 1 ½ ins in thickness, and decorated on one side, were found at a level of some 3 feet below the surface. More pottery was found, some of which was of the XIth, XIIth and XIII Centuries. These finds indicate a settlement of some kind at Hazlegrove in the Middle Ages and it seems probable that there was a farm or small hamlet there.

Lodge & Former Entrance: All that remains of the entrance to Hazlegrove by the old lodge on the Sparkford High Street is a magnificent stone archway with wrought iron gates. The stone was brought from the Stawell Estate at Low Ham in 1872. This Archway and the Lodge now stand on private land.

* Photo of King John Oak provided by Hazlegrove School

John Cann, former Headmaster gives an insight into the earlier years at Hazlegrove

We set our standards that life would be physically vigorous, mentally stimulating and spiritually challenging. Life was fairly rough and ready in those days and equipment minimal – no TV, no computers, very little science, no chairs, carpets or curtains in the dormitories. We ate our meals in the Entrance Hall of the house and in the Headmaster’s study. A farmer arrived with a churn of milk every morning, William Atkins brought in a supply of vegetables from the garden. Food rationing was still in operation, but we did receive one consignment of caviar destined for a hotel in Cornwall, which in turn received our sardines and baked beans! We had porridge and a cooked breakfast; fish came by rail direct from Grimsby to Sparkford station. Boys and staff collected apples from the orchard every autumn. We had no deep freeze and no modern cooking equipment – just two large Agas. Stanley, our boiler man, had a dog, Skipper, which guided him back from the Sparkford Inn every night, except on

one night when Stanley rested on a log, which turned out to be a cow’!

We never locked any part of the house at night except my study (the Catherine of Aragon room) and on one occasion, a cow was found in the passage outside the staffroom! Boys (and headmaster) had a cold bath in the mornings, followed by PT on the front drive before breakfast. The gym was an old wooden barn which swayed dangerously when pushed and it had a concrete floor – quite good for roller-skating! The front lawns and drive were covered with long grass and brambles, which were cleared by staff and boys with the help from Farmer Paul’s sheep. One glory of the grounds and park was the 300-400 elms, which later succumbed to Dutch `Elm disease, but the King John oak still lives on vigorously.

With all this activity, staff and boys felt that they really belonged to Hazlegrove and with fresh confidence, the Governors were able to purchase the house and seventeen acres from the Ilchester Estates for the amazing figure of £4000.This became possible because we had paid off our debts; we also accepted more boys, and donations began to come from Governors and parents.

Hazlegrove House must have reached the height of its fame in the XV111th Century. It is most probable that a number of the leading men of the day enjoyed Carew Hervey’s hospitality at Hazlegrove, where they rode in the park, inspected the newly laid out gardens, dined in the oak panelled room and discussed patronage, politics, enclosures and land drainage. Carew Hervey left an inheritance to Hazlegrove which was to be enjoyed and enhanced by the St. JohnMildmays of the XIXth Century, the legacy of which is still enjoyed by those who live there today.

Old Hazlegrovians

Ed Benhow – Headmaster – Hazlegrove 2022 – Present

The Hazlegrove Association is an informal and supportive network of Old Hazlegrovians and their parents as well as former and current staff and anyone else with an association with Hazlegrove. They are really keen to hear from all Old Hazlegrovians. Please write to them at headsec@hazlegrove.co.uk with your stories (photographs are most welcome too). There is no annual subscription and the association relies heavily on members keeping in contact with the school.

Today, Ed Benhow is at the helm. He grew up nearby, attending Queen

< Headmaster Ed Benhow & his wife Amanda

Camel primary school, Perrott Hill and Sherborne School. He took a degree in Spanish, Russian and Economics at Durham University and has a Masters in Educational Leadership. He is also a keen sportsman and musician!

There are currently 380 Pupils, including Nursery (more or less equal between boys and girls) with around a third boarding and a small handful from overseas.

Ed and his wife Amanda live onsite at Hazlegrove with their children, Eli and Freddie, and two lively cocker spaniels, Pickle and Muffin. They are passionate about the family boarding ethos that is central to Hazlegrove’s philosophy, fully immersing themselves in as many areas of the School as possible. They are actively involved with all children from Nursery to Year 8, sharing a common desire to ignite the fire in every child. “It’s a place where children work and play hard, but where they also as importantly have bucket loads of fun and stay children until they leave at 13”.

For further information about Hazlegrove, please contact the Head’s Secretary: Beth Holdgate –headsec@hazlegrove.co.uk

Hazlegrove, Sparkford, Somerset BA22 7JA T: 01963 440314 www.hazlegrove.co.uk

Katy Rundle

I had only recently started experimenting with textile art, and had never exhibited, but was excited at the opportunity. So I set to work.

My life as a professional artist began the day my daughter came home from Hazlegrove asking if I would take part in a fund raising art exhibition at her school. I had only recently started experimenting with textile art, and had never exhibited, but was excited at the opportunity. So I set to work.

Inspired by the constant cow dodging on the school run, I created an image using a collage of fabric pieces and stitch. It was with some trepidation that I submitted my entry for sale, and it was with great excitement that I later found out it had sold! Not only that, but I had several commissions from other parents. My life long dream of becoming a full time artist was about to begin.

Eight years on, I am an award-winning artist, exhibiting at galleries and art fairs, with collectors on both sides of the Atlantic. You might also have seen me compete on Sky Arts Landscape Artist of the Year 2018.

Eight years on, I am an awardwinning artist, exhibiting at galleries and art fairs, with collectors on both sides of the Atlantic. You might also have seen me compete on Sky Arts Landscape Artist of the Year 2018. I work from a studio at Project Workshops in Quarley, Hampshire, and am currently ‘Artist in Residence’ at Winchester Hospice. (My first career was as a Macmillan Nurse and this recent role combines my two careers perfectly.)

I work from a studio at Project Workshops in Quarley, Hampshire, and am currently ‘Art Residence’ at Winchester Hospice. (My first career was as a Macmillan Nurse and this recent role combines my two careers perfectly.)

Winner of Newcomer Award DSWF Wildlife Artist of the Year 2023

www.KatyRundleArt.com Commissions welcome

The Beauté Shed

Owner and founder of The Beauté Shed, on her own little journey to provide the best treatments for her growing clientele. Georgia started her journey at Yeovil College aged 17 and soon landed herself a job working for a fantastic local salon. It was here that she gained the best training and start to her life in the industry.

At 19, she ventured to Bristol to study Media Makeup, but that only lasted three months. She just couldn’t keep up with university life – It’s not for everyone.

It was then that Georgia decided to join the world of business and start up by herself, aged just 20. With a lot of hard work - and long hours - 6 years on, The Beauté Shed is

Meet Georgia Bovey

thriving. Georgia’s not only provided employment for herself, she has also employed two other beauty therapists and is training a student.

A note from Georgia – “Having my own business has enabled me to do what I love all under one brand. I love being creative, I love interiors, I love independence, I love being a mum, I love making people feel their best whether it’s a simple brow shape or a bridal makeup, I adore what I do and I will always be coming up with new ideas to better my work life and anyone who works with me”.

The Beauté Box

Our newest space... a recently renovated old Rice horsebox. Its first event was at a private glampsite for Glastonbury festival, where Georgia (pictured) and Cadence (head beauty therapist) provided festival makeup for their guests. The Beauté Box is available to hire. It would be great for pamper parties, kids parties or just a vanity station at a marquee wedding.

For a bespoke quote, please fill in our contact form online.

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

Galhampton ‘O’ Gauge Train Group

The Galhampton ‘O’ Gauge group was formed by Mr Chris Smith who had retired to Galhampton after farming for most of his life in Weston Bampfylde.

Chris bought a portable model railway test track but found it slightly too large to fit in his house and after some lengthy discussion, it was decided to hire the local Village Hall every Monday morning, except Christmas day.

We invited several mutual friends to join us and so the group was formed.

When Galhampton Village Hall was dismantled in order to build a new larger facility, we were welcomed by Victoria Rogers (Sparkford Village Hall’s Booking Secretary), who has continued to make us feel very much

at home, as has the Chairman who has been very helpful and the Treasurer who has very kindly forgiven me for jamming the electricity meter with a pre decimal brass threepenny bit mistakenly taken for a pound coin!

Because it is very central for most of our members we will be happy to use the Sparkford Village Hall for the foreseeable future.

Chris Smith, who passed away a few years ago and is buried along side his wife in Weston Bampfylde churchyard, is still fondly remembered by the members of the group. His son

Nick, who lives in Weston Bampfylde, occasionally brings Chris’s favourite model to run on the test track.

The group happily runs without a committee and all decisions are made by the members themselves. Its a happy group and hopefully the Galhampton ‘O’ Guage Train Group will continue for many years to come.

We welcome new members! Please contact Bob Harris on 01963 440167 Images kindly supplied by Ellis Clark Trains. www.ellisclarktrains.com

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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.

Getting to know a little bit about Sam Nixon

It was a privilege to be asked to tell a little about myself and my professional Rugby career which spanned 10 years and allowed me to experience so much. It provided me with a platform to give back to the local community. I’ve lived in the immediate area my whole life, starting school at Queen Camel, then Sparkford, Bruton and Street.

In my career I was very fortunate to play for 3 of the 4 South West clubs. starting my premiership career at Bath and spending 4 years there, with Exeter Chiefs and a very brief spell at Bristol Bears. In that time, I was lucky enough to play and train with some of the best players in the world.

Having a job that is also your love is a huge honour, but it comes with many sacrifices, which can also take its toll physically and mentally. Recently this led me to retire from rugby due to several neck injuries, requiring 3 invasive surgeries to reverse nerve damage. I managed to balance playing rugby with lending a helping hand on the family farm, which gave me a great sense of reality.

We were always given the day off before arriving at The Rec, Bath on Friday evenings for a 7.45pm KO. On several occasions I would work on the farm all day, then put my rugby boots on and go and play in front of almost 15,000 fans in the Champions Cup. It

sounds ridiculous, but I had some of my best games after a day of farming. My biggest career challenge came in the offer to play in the French Top14 for Bayonne, the best league in the world with easily the best collection of players that are in the game . Not only was there a huge language barrier but also a completely different way to play the game. The French are quite emotional people and that translated to the players and fans. We would have team talks by the coach or captain that would make you feel like you were in ‘Gladiator’ with your final moments about to happen.

Lads would be crying; some would be smacking each other and we would then run on the pitch being cheered

“We were always given the day off before arriving at The Rec, Bath on Friday evenings for a 7.45pm KO. On several occasions I would work on the farm all day, then put my rugby boots on...”

on by some of the most passionate fans I’ve ever experienced. It honestly would feel like playing in the Colosseum.

Some of the best wins came when we thought we didn’t stand a chance, that’s when the French and lads threw the kitchen sink at it. I owe a lot to rugby, France. family and my wonderful wife for all the support in a strenuous job. I’m looking forward to coaching now in order to give something to the next generation of rugby players.

I hope this has been a short insight into professional sport and the highs and lows that come with it.

End-to-end flooding response from local experts

When flooding hits hard, we hit back

End-to-End Flooding Response from Local Experts

There’s no question that Sparkford has been hit hard by flooding in the last year, causing property and infrastructure damage across the area.

July 2024

When flooding hits hard, we hit back.

There’s no question that Sparkford has been hit hard by flooding in the last year, causing property and infrastructure damage across the area.

We’re here to help.

ServiceMaster Restore is a UK-wide disaster recovery and specialist cleaning company.

The condition of your contents will usually depend on the contamination level of the water, which we assess before extraction, allowing you to make informed decisions about the restoration of your property.

ServiceMaster Restore is a UK-wide disaster recovery and specialist cleaning company.

When water damage has affected your home, all affected material must be removed from the property and disposed of safely.

We’re backed by over 60 years of experience from the global ServiceMaster brand, we offer our local knowhow serving the Bath and Bristol area – supporting communities in and around Sparkford from floods. This combines to give us the expertise and resources to take care of any disaster restoration job, no matter how tough. Supported by our Concept Claims Solutions operation, when dealing with flooding, we can also provide a complete end-to-end solution from start to finish, from claims to disaster restoration.

Mould spores require moisture to develop and spread, so it’s essential to dry the space affected by water as a priority before restoration can take place.

Supported by our Concept Claims Solutions operation, when dealing with flooding, we can also provide a complete end-to-end solution from start to finish, from claims to disaster restoration.

Our flood restoration processes

We protect your assets, leave your property as good as new whenever possible, and are ready to reinstate decor and furniture in severe cases.

Furthermore, our modern drying equipment can run quietly, so you don’t lose sleep while it dries.

Our top-of-the-range equipment allows us to extract water from the property quickly, minimise damage to your property’s contents and work on restoring them to their original condition.

Supporting claims processes

Our flood restoration processes

Our top-of-the-range equipment allows us to extract water from the property quickly, minimise damage to your property’s contents and work on restoring them to their original condition.

When water damage has affected your home, all affected material must be removed from the property and disposed of safely.

Combined with the restoration services we offer through our Concept Claims business, we’ll also support you during the claims process of your disaster recovery, so whether you’re involved in the claims processes or not, you know you’re in safe hands, as our end-to-end solutions ensure your claim is handled by professionals who understand the recovery process your home has undergone.

Preventing other forms of damage

Disaster can’t always be predicted, but it can be prevented. With our leak detection services, we use top-of-therange technology to identify leaks and moisture in your property to stop water damage before it happens.

We don’t just help with flooding and water damage, either.

Our experts also provide a range of other disaster restoration services, including but not limited to:

• Fire and smoke damage restoration

• Graffiti and Vandalism restoration

• Trauma cleaning

• Mould removal and inspection

Don’t know what to do next? We do.

No matter what the future holds for Sparkford and the surrounding areas, we’ll be on hand to support you with complete, professional end-to-end solutions to help you get back on your feet as quickly as possible.

SCOUTS (101/2 - 14 Years)

Tues. 7.15-9pm

Scott Austin asl@sparkfordscouts.org.uk

CUBS (8 - 10¹/² Years)

Mon 6.30-8pm

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

W.SMITH & SONS

24 Hour Callout for Fallen / Dangerous Trees

Our Services

Hedge Cutting

Hedge Trimming

Grass Cutting

Removal of Trees

Garden Waste Removal

Height Pruning

Fence Erecting

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

Coffee Image by Freepik

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

We 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 t: 01823 653990

Office No. 01823 653998

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.

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

As 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.

Georgia Gee Photography

Georgia, the owner of Georgia Gee Photography - relaxed and intimate Family, Newborn and Maternity Photography for those who want to capture connection. Serving families across Somerset including Yeovil, Weston Super Mare, Wells & Taunton.

I’ve always been an outdoor soul and attribute my love of nature to many years being left to my own devices on my Grandparents farm back in Essex.

So, many years later, when I married my husband and his role in the military meant we would be relocating from Plymouth to Somerset, my first thought was to the challenges of moving my photography business. My second was to all the gorgeous green space I was about to explore and the amazing locations I might find.

Family photography lends itself beautifully to an outdoor setting for many reasons. For the most part being in nature is a sensory experience that calms, rejuvenates and inspires, the perfect place for the hectic everyday of busy

family life to ebb away and be replaced with quality time together. Secondly, nature’s backdrop adds beauty and interest to any image, whether it’s rolling hills, moody skies, forests and ferns, wildflowers or beaches. And finally the natural light. Photography is in essence all about painting with light, controlling carefully how much is seen, where it falls and how it tells a story. So for me harnessing and capturing beautiful natural light can be one of the most expressive and emotive parts of telling a family’s story.

Last Spring I was looking for local recommendations for places to find bluebells and heard from multiple sources that Sparkford Wood was THE place to visit. So Luna, my labrador, and

I hopped in the car and headed down to check it out. It was still early in the season and although there were no blooms to see yet it was already clear that this little wood was going to be something extremely special.

With its long straight vistas, a tall well established canopy and, as far as the eye could see, a carpet of green long leaves waiting for sunshine, this little wood was very soon going to be the perfect backdrop for Spring Family Photography.

I‘ve always believed that the only thing you should leave at a location is your footprints but with bluebells even those need to be considered.

Protecting and preserving these beautiful flowers is always my priority when incorporating them into a shoot so I take great pains to prepare families before their session on how we will avoid damaging them in any way. I use pathways and already established trails to position them and myself and shoot

low to create the illusion that they’re sitting amid the blooms.

Shooting amongst the bluebells this Spring was an absolutely magical experience and helping families capture timeless memories in this incredible location is something I will look forward to again and again.

Contact details for anyone looking to book a shoot with me are through my website www.georgiageephotography.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

Haynes Motor Museum

Haynes Motor Museum has a variety of exciting events and activities this Autumn season, catering to all ages and interests.

Experience some of the largest car boot sales in the Southwest, hosted at the Museum on Saturday, 7th September and Saturday, 5th October. Sellers bring your treasures in need of a new home, and buyers, come and browse the diverse collections of items on display!

Get into the Halloween spirit with a brand-new children’s spooky “Track or Treat” trail this October Half Term (26th October – 3rd November). Hunt for automotive monsters while exploring the impressive Museum collection.

Explore a range of automotive topics in the weekly Volunteer Talks. Passionate Museum volunteers share their expert knowledge with a different theme every month. This Autumn, the themes include the tale of William Morris, the story of iconic Minors and Minis, the four key figures behind one of the most successful F1 teams, and the history and significance of some of the Museum’s star cars.

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

Six Steps to a Fantastic Lawn with Sherborne Turf

Autumn is the perfect time of year to look after your lawn, whatever the summer has thrown at you! Follow our six simple steps to get your lawn ready for the winter:

1. Scarify

Put simply, rake your grass. If you have a look at your lawn, you’ll probably notice a layer of light brown debris, called thatch, covering the soil that can easily be removed. It is important to remove the thatch in order to let light, water, fertiliser and seed through.

2. Aerate

After scarifying, aerate, or spike, your lawn using a lawn aerator with solid tines or spikes. This will allow water and fertiliser into the soil. Make sure you aerate before fertilising your lawn.

3. Fertilise

Autumn is the perfect time to apply fertiliser or conditioner. This will protect the lawn over the winter months. The best fertiliser will be lower in nitrogen and higher in iron, such as Sherborne Turf’s Green and Black Fertiliser.

4. Improve the surface

If you have aerated your lawn and feel that the surface needs evening out, an application of top-dressing will smooth the lawn surface and correct any irregularities. A mixture of sand and compost will help improve drainage whilst stimulating healthy grass growth and improving the appearance of the lawn’s surface.

And remember, we’re always happy to help if you need more advice. Call us on 01935 850388, or message us online.

www.sherborneturf.co.uk

5. Re-seed

Down in the Southwest of England, we have a lot longer to sow grass seed should we need to, though October is often the last opportunity. Keep an eye on the weather as particularly heavy rainfall or cold temperatures will prevent germination, where light rainfall and warmer temperatures will encourage it.

6. Mow

It is important to continue mowing your lawn throughout the colder months. We would recommend cutting little and often, then collecting the cuttings and any leaf fall to keep for compost and mulch. Don’t mow when the grass is wet as this can spread disease such as red thread, as well as potentially damaging your mower.

THE SIX CHURCHES OF CAM VALE SERVICES FOR THE MONTHS

OF SEPTEMBER & OCTOBER 2024

Sun 1 Sept Queen Camel 9.30 am BCP Holy Communion

Corton Denham 10.00 am BCP Holy Communion

West Camel 4.00 pm Tea @ Four United Service

Sun 8 Sept West Camel 9.30 am BCP Holy Communion

Weston Bampfylde 10.00 am Morning Prayer

Sutton Montis 10.00 am Morning Prayer

West Camel 6.00 pm Methodist Service

Sun 15 Sept Queen Camel 9.30 am BCP Holy Communion

Sparkford 11.00 am Harvest Festival followed by bring & share picnic at the church

West Camel 6.00 pm Methodist Service

Sun 22 Sept Weston Bampfylde 10.00 am Together @ 10

West Camel 6.00 pm Methodist Service

Sun 29 Sept West Camel 6.00 pm Songs of Praise

Sunday 6 Oct Queen Camel 11:00 am Harvest Festival – Lunch to follow at Memorial Hall

Corton Denham 10:00 am Harvest Festival

West Camel 4.00 pm Tea @ Four

Sunday 13 Oct West Camel 11:00 am Harvest Festival

Weston Bampfylde 10:00 am Harvest Festival

Sutton Montis 10:00 am Harvest Festival

West Camel 6.00 pm Methodists Service

Sunday 20 Oct Queen Camel 9:30 am BCP Holy Communion

Sparkford 9:30 am BCP Holy Communion

West Camel 6:00 pm Methodists Service

Sunday 27 Oct Queen Camel 10:00 am Together @ 10

West Camel 6:00 pm Methodists service

From the Registers:

Weddings:

William Stebbings & Hannah Burton

Saturday 14th September at Holy Trinity, Sutton Montis

Funerals:

Margaret Ann Endersby - Friday 5 July at All Saints, West Camel

Geoffrey Brooks - Wednesday 24 July at Mendip Crematorium

Leslie Dewey (Les) - 8 August at St Mary Magdalene’s Sparkford

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

Sparkford Duck Race 22 June 2024 Playing Field Committee

Thanks to an amazing turnout and lots of wonderful raffle prizes kindly donated, together with cakes made by friends and supporters, we managed to raise in the region of £1,500.

We unveiled our plans for the summer - all our new playground equipment is on order and we hope to have an installation date confirmed sometime soon.

Once the work has been completed, we will then plan a party in the park for the end of the summer! There is currently a board in the Village Hall showing the computerised images of the new equipment and layout with full details for anybody that is interested. I am sure Victoria Rogers at the village hall will enable access.

Many thanks – Sparkford Playing Field Committee.

Gazpacho

This classic cold Spanish soup is perfect for a summer lunch. Best made with ingredients at the height of their season an a great way to use up a glut of tomatoes.

Ingredients:

1.5kg ripe tomatoes, chopped ½ cucumber, peeled, deseeded and chopped

1 red pepper, deseeded and chopped

1 small clove garlic

1 ½ red onions

2 tbsp sherry vinegar

150ml olive oil

1 tsp sea salt, or to taste

www.orchardinngalhampton.co.uk

Method:

Blitz together all the ingredients in batches, apart from the olive oil. With the machine running, add the oil at the end of each batch so that it emulsifies. Chill for at least an hour before serving.

Serve with the grapes and croutons.

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

Pop Up Dolls in Queen Camel

Did you notice the wonderful selection of characters that used to sit on a bench over the Cam bridge into Queen Camel from Sparkford?

These lovely life-size people were the creation of Bernie Peachey who lived in the cottage with a bench outside. Apparently her house used to be a shop and Post Office.

She dressed her life-sized dolls in different outfits at different times of the year and placed them outside to entertain people.

Tragically, Bernie’s home was flooded last year (together with many other properties in Queen Camel) and she has since had to leave the village. She has also recently had a heart attack due to the stress over the last year.

Bernie had a wonderful group of characters in the sidelines waiting to sit on the bench, but unfortunately they were all ruined by the flood.

Thank you Bernie for making us smile – what a very talented lady you are and we really hope that you return to full health in the near future and enjoy your new home in Stoke-sub-Hamdon.

Bernie obtained clothing for her dolls and scarecrows from many sources – she used to scour charity shops together with friends and found all sorts of useful items. Also, kind people who enjoyed seeing her creations brought items they hoped she could use including tights supplied by the villagers to hold the straw together for the scarecrows. She often used to return home to find a bag of tights on the doorstep!

Pets Corner

Firework night is looming. Although it may be a few weeks away yet, if your pet is afraid of loud noises you need to act now! Nearly 50% of dogs have a genuine fear of loudnoises and as 5th November approaches this can be a most distressing time of year for them. There are no magic cures for frightened animals but here are a few suggestions, which we hope will help to make things less distressing for your pets.

Preparing for Fireworks night

• Identify a safe quiet area for your pet.Provide a bed and some familiar items. Providing an unwashed item of your clothing may help so that the dog can smell your scent.

• Consider placing a pheromone device nearby.

• Minimise the noise and light coming into the house by shutting all the windows and drawingthe curtains early.

• Walk dogs early to avoid going out once the fireworks have started. Keep them on a lead in case unexpected fireworks are encountered.

• Try to mask the noise by turning on the television or radio. If possible do this before the first fireworks start. Keep the volume at a comfortable level to avoid adding to the problem. It is better to make these preparations now and not leave it until the last minute.

When the Fireworks start

• Encourage your pet to go to the ‘safe area’ and stay there. If they choose to hide somewhere else, let them do so. They will tend to seek out a place where they feel most secure.

• Let them have a free run of the house. Animals which are frightened will attempt to escape. If their efforts are thwarted they are more likely to become aggressive or destructive.

• Ignore your pet if it shows signs of fear. Although it seems natural to try to soothe or reassure your pet, this would only reward fearful behaviour and makes the problem worse in future.

• Reward calm behaviour with praise or a treat.

• Do not get cross with your pet. Punishment of fearful behaviour will only make them more anxious.

• Try to stay calm and relaxed yourself. Act as a good role model.

Medications

There are certain products and medications available from your vet for pets with firework phobias, which we will be happy to discuss with you.

Please contact the Delaware Veterinary Group on 01963 350307 for advice. We also have an experienced Registered Veterinary Nurse with additional qualifications in behavioural therapy. She can discuss and help to plan a programme of therapy for noise phobias.

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

Sparkford Cricket Club

Sparkford Cricket Club Juniors have had a successful season, especially our u14s. They were runners-up in their League and Cup Finalists in the knock-out competition.

We are currently starting a much-needed refurbishment of our Pavilion, both internally and externally to improve our facilities.

We have an amazing but small band of volunteers and for next season we are looking for more help, especially coaches, both male and female. The Club will fund the training costs for level 1 ECB Coaching Courses. If anybody is interested, please get in touch with me on 07914494330 if you think you could help. Many thanks, Jon King Brain, Sparkford Cricket Club.

Nine

Four

Eight Detailing & Valeting

• Paint correction

• Ceramic coating

• Valeting

• Fully insured Vantage Park, Goodwood Drive Sparkford 07917701601

www.ninefoureight.co.uk

September/October 2024 Issue

Chimney Sweep and Vacuum

Clean and friendly service covering all local and surrounding areas

For more details call Daren on 01935 850913

Gerry’s Window Cleaning Services

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

We also clean fascias, clean gutters and provide property maintenance

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

Oven Cleaning Services

Selling your home: Spring Cleaning Landlords Service

Contact: Mark Mawdsley 01935 862614 or 0775 269 5264

Plastering, Plasterboard & Screeding p: 07979 755567

To Advertise in THE Spark

Please contact: Jackie Bristow: 01963 361753 jpbristowbristow@gmail.com

Deadline 5th October for the November/December 2024 issue

Martin Roberts - Plasterer

Household

Car

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.