Friday 19th June

Friday, 19 June 2026 06:00

By Steve Haigh

An amber heat health alert has been issued for Somerset with high temperatures expected to continue into next week. Schools across Somerset are taking part in a pilot scheme teaching children about money laundering. Ham Hill Country Park has been recognised with a top award for its efforts to protect the countryside... and more

The UK Health Security Agency has issued an amber heat health alert for Somerset, with high temperatures expected to continue into next week. The warning remains in place until Tuesday. Health officials are urging people to take precautions, particularly older adults and those with underlying health conditions.

The opposition leader at Somerset Council says he's disappointed after the council’s children's social services were rated as "requiring improvement" by inspectors. An Ofsted report found the service was not good enough. Consrvative opposition leader Diogo Rodrigues says more progress is needed to ensure vulnerable children receive the support they deserve.

Schools across Somerset are taking part in a pilot scheme teaching children about money laundering. Developed with support from the police, the lessons aim to help young people recognise scams and protect bank accounts from criminal exploitation. Following the Somerset trial, the programme is expected to be introduced nationally from the autumn.

Construction is underway on a major affordable housing development in Crewkerne. The Goldwell Farm scheme, located north of Yeovil Road, will provide 67 new homes through a partnership between Allison Homes South West and housing provider Abri. The development is set to deliver 100 per cent affordable housing for local residents.

Ham Hill Country Park has been recognised for its efforts to protect the countryside and improve public access. The park has received a Love Your Countryside Award from the Campaign to Protect Rural England for its project "Uncovering Ham Hill's Past for its Future", which has helped preserve local heritage and strengthen connections between people and nature.

An army corporal from Devon has been crowned Europe's Strongest Man. Rhys Calland secured the title after completing a series of gruelling strength challenges, including dragging a combined weight of almost five tonnes over ten metres and back.

And Yeovil Town have signed former Manchester United youngster Jack Kingdon from Cardiff City. The 20-year-old centre-back joins the Glovers on a one-year deal.

More from News

Tuesday 15th September

Police investigating an attack on a shop worker in Yeovil have released CCTV images of a man and woman they want to speak to. Farmers in Somerset are being warned to expect more cases of bluetongue. Ilminster Carnival Committee has announced the cancellation of this year's Children's Carnival due to a lack of entries... and more
Monday 14th September

Two new mobile NHS breast screening units have taken to the road in Somerset. More than 700 new homes are to be built alongside the M5 in Bridgwater. Dawes Twineworks in West Coker is one of several venues open to the public for free this month... and more
Friday 11th September

It’s going to cost more to park in Chard. Police have issued an image of a man they want to speak to in connection with two burglaries in Yeovil. Somerset Cricket Club is planning to stage performances by some of the world's biggest artistes at their Taunton ground... and more
Thursday 10th September

Work has begun building a new multi-million-pound David Lloyd leisure centre in Yeovil. NHS Somerset says a new system to handle emergency stroke care will lead to "better outcomes" for patients. Tickets for next year’s Glastonbury Festival will go on sale in October...and more
Wednesday 9th September

Police have released an image of a man they want to speak to following an assault in Yeovil. Businesses in Taunton say they're worried that planned changes to parking rules could put people off visiting the town. The Red Arrows will take to the skies near the Somerset border in a one-off display later this week... and more
Tuesday 8th September

Police in Avon and Somerset say they’re dealing with a big increase in reports of cloned vehicle fraud. A new video system designed to speed up stroke care has been launched in Somerset. Pilgrims are walking through Somerset this week to mark eight hundred years since the death of Saint Francis of Assisi... and more
Monday 7th September

Avon and Somerset Police are warning about a new scam involving criminals posing as police officers. Flu vaccinations are now available on the NHS ahead of the winter. Liverpool comedian John Bishop has cancelled his show in Taunton later this week after breaking his ankle... and more
Friday 4th September

Police are investigating a suspected arson attack on a vehicle near Shepton Mallet. New taxi charges come into force in Somerset later this month. The fire service is treating as accidental a blaze at a flat in Yeovil town centre... and more