Ashill Village Hall has had a lick of paint. Picture: Summerfield

Housing developer helps repaint Somerset village hall after finishing homes

Paul JonesDecember 23, 20250 Comment0

A SOMERSET village hall has got a new lick of paint – thanks to a developer who built 10 homes nearby.

Taunton-based Summerfield Homes recently completed a development in Ashill, near Ilminster, and took the opportunity to repaint the building.

The redecoration was needed after the building was damaged during heavy storms at the end of 2024, and form part of a larger refurbishment project,

Ashill Village Hall is used by various community groups, as well as the village school for PE during bad weather.

Summerfield’s £500 contribution for the redecoration was made through the Somerset Community Foundation (SCF), where the company has established a Summerfield Force for Good Fund for grants to chosen charities and community projects throughout the year.

Summerfield has just finished the St Mary’s green development in Ashill

Other grants made from the Summerfield Fund in 2025 include £5,000 to the Albermarle Centre, in Taunton, supporting vulnerable young people with disabilities; £1,000 to help disadvantaged young people reach their potential in STEM subjects; and £5,000 to the North Taunton Partnership towards their community centre.

Fiona Foster, senior philanthropy manager at SCF, said: “Our role in getting funds into the hands of passionate people who want to make their communities happier, healthier, and more connected is only possible thanks to the generosity of supporters like Summerfield, and we are truly grateful.

“We know what a difference the painting of Ashill Village Hall made, as it helped waterproof the cladding and protect it from more severe weather. Without the use of the hall, local groups would have to close or go further afield. It is a valuable community hub.”

James Holyday, group managing director for Summerfield, added: “It is our pleasure to give something back to the communities where we live and work.

“Channelling our giving through Somerset Community Foundation is an effective way of ensuring the funds are well spent where they are needed.”