Major Somerset developer backs local rugby

Castle Cary RFC is the latest recipient funding of Persimmon Homes Severn Valley’s Community Champions scheme.

The housebuilder presented the cheque for £1,500 at the clubhouse to Chairman Greg Power. They were joined by local Somerset councillor, Cllr Kevin Messenger.

The club, established in 1888, has youth teams serving local children aged 4-16 as well as a senior side. One of its alumni, Oscar Churchouse, was recently selected for England’s U18s.

Persimmon Homes donates £700,000 to good causes and much-valued organisations across Britain each year. Recent local recipients include Caryford Community Hall, Toy-Box Pre-School, and the River Cam Flood Warning App.

The accredited five-star builder will deliver 162 high-quality homes at its new site in Castle Cary, Tor Point. Homes will be constructed to high energy-efficiency standards using timber-frame construction, with a number equipped with solar panels and electric vehicle charging points.

The site will include a local equipped area for play, generous public open space, and dedicated pedestrian and cycle routes. 35% of the homes will be reserved for a local housing association.

A focus on biodiversity will see the inclusion of new hedgerows, woodland planting, and sustainable drainage systems, while bird and bat boxes will be installed to support local wildlife.

Persimmon will also safeguard land for a future primary school and for future employment use, supporting long-term job creation in the area. They will also make financial contributions towards education, as well as local recreation and leisure facilities.

Persimmon Homes Severn Valley Sales Director Carly Spear said:

“Persimmon is proud of our commitment to building a sustainable, new development in Castle Cary and, as part of that, we want to give our backing to a local institution like the rugby club.

“Clubs like this play an excellent role in the town, bringing the people together over the love of sport and providing a place for the community to meet, so we were very happy to support Castle Cary RFC with this donation.”

Greg Power, Chairman of Castle Cary RFC, added:

“We’re thrilled to have received this generous donation from Persimmon as part of their commitment to our community.

“For the club to continue to offer what it does in the here – whether that be a team to play rugby for or a place that brings people together – it needs to build partnerships like this.

“We’re grateful to Persimmon for the difference this will make for the club and effort they are making in here to support us.”