ALL SAINTS CHURCH: A BRIEF HISTORY

Records show that there was a wooden church around 995 AD, which was replaced by a stone building with a small tower in the Norman period (c.1100). The nave and north chapel were added c.1200, the small Norman building becoming the chancel of the enlarged building. In the 15th century the pulpit was added, the height of the nave, north chapel and tower we raised by about half, and the fine nave roof was added.

Many other improvements were made, but sadly these were destroyed in the religious turmoils of the late 16th century. The spirelet on the tower was added in 1631.

All Saints Church has six bells, one of which dates from the 15th century and weighs approx. 370 kilos. The most recent bell was added in 1977, the others having been re-hung in 1951. In 1835, pews were erected in the chancel, paid for by those who sat in them. The vestry minutes record that the people who paid for them "drew lots for the choice of situation”. The present entrance-porch was built in 1866, replacing an earlier one which has been demolished.

There is a list Rectors of West Camel all the way back to 1317. The foregoing is only a summary of the history of All Saints Church. This attractive, historic church is well worth a visit, and further information about its history is available in the church. Substantial internal renovations were completed in spring 2007. These include the provision of running water, kitchen facilities, and a disabled toilet. The organ was moved to the newly-built gallery.

METHODIST CHURCH: A BRIEF HISTORY

 Although Methodism in West Camel goes back to the 19th century or even earlier, when the Methodist Chapel on the Sparkford was built in 1908 the A303 was just a narrow country lane. West Camel Methodists had previously worshipped in an "upper room” above a carpenter’s shop in Keep Street. The thatched roof leaked when it rained, and when the congregation was large (it seated 80) props had to be placed beneath the floor to support it! The necessity for a new church became increasingly apparent, but lack of funds prevented this dream from becoming a reality for many years. It was when Mr and Mrs A E Clothier came to reside at Vale Farm and offered a plot of land for a new church that plans really got under way, and an estimate of £497.50 from Messrs. Chapman and Co., Builders of Yeovil was accepted.

On June 14th 1908 the stone-laying ceremony took place, and new premises were officially opened on 24th September 1908. In 1974, an extension, including kitchen and toilets, was added, and in 1998, to coincide with the 90th anniversary celebrations, extensive alterations were undertaken. This involved reversing the interior layout of the chapel, constructing a new entrance, and renovating the church hall. Over time, the A303 has become the busy London to Exeter trunk road and presented a danger to worshippers. This, together with our isolation from the village, deterred people from coming to us.

In July 2016 we entered into a Building Sharing Agreement with our friends at All Saints Church, with whom we have had a very happy working relationship for many years. This has enabled us to be a more effective part of our community. We have our own services most Sundays, as well as regular united services and events.