Although Methodism in West Camel goes back to the 19th century or even earlier, when the Methodist Chapel on the Sparkford road was built in 1908 the A303 was 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-
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.
In 2020 our congregation decided to join the Independent Methodist Connexion of Churches, while continuing to share the church with our Anglican friends, and supporting them whenever possible.