by John & Barbara Ackland of Higher Yarnacott Farm, Swimbridge
The Star on the hill in Swimbridge is back. The celebrations included fireworks kindly donated by Mike Ackland, a show by our Swimbridge fire-eater Simeon Day and an official switch-on. The star was hit during a lightening strike last year, causing extensive damage to the light, cable and time-switch. It has now all been renewed with funds collected on New Years Eve last year at the Jack Russell Inn courtesy of the landlord, Paul Darch. The star is a visual delight to many people including our local British Airways pilot, Yves, who said it can be seen at over 30,000 feet. The original star was a wooden structure being the inspiration of Dave Bryant of Lightquest fame. The new one at 26 feet high, was made of metal four years ago by John Ackland as a lasting tribute to Dave who sadly passed away last year, without whose inspiration the star would never have been created. After the erection of the star, we enjoyed mulled wine and mince pies at the Jack Russell Inn thanks to Paula & Stuart Swanson.
I'm sure everyone in the Village would agree that huge thanks are due
to John & Barbara Ackland from all of us for making it happen.