Friday 3rd July

Friday, 3 July 2026 06:30

Somerset residents are being urged to be tick-aware. Children are being encouraged to pick up a book over the summer holidays. A Yeovil apprentice has been recognised for his outstanding achievement... and more

Somerset residents are being urged to be tick-aware. The UK Health Security Agency South West is telling us that we should take precautions against tick bites this summer, following the publication of the first report of its kind by Defra and the Animal and Plant Health Agency. The south west is one of the highest risk regions in the country for tick bites and tick-borne disease and the report confirms that the region recorded 281 Lyme disease cases in 2025, ranking it second-highest in England.

Tick activity normally increases in late spring, peaking around June but can occur all year round. People spending time outdoors in wooded areas, grassland and heathland are at greatest risk. Anyone who has been bitten by a tick should remove it as soon as possible using a tick removal device or fine-tipped tweezers and be alert to symptoms such as a spreading rash, flu-like illness or fatigue in the following weeks.

Chard Town Council is saying goodbye to its chief executive and town clerk. David Bell, who holds both roles, will step down this weekend after completing an18 month contract that saw him negotiate the council’s transition and reform. He will be succeeded by Stephen Hill, currently town clerk at Honiton Town Council, on Monday.

Somerset Council is encouraging children to pick up a book over the summer holidays with the 2026 Summer Reading Challenge, which launches tomorrow. Read to the Beat aims to inspire primary-school-age children to explore the connection between stories and songs, discovering how reading and music both ignite imagination and creativity. Those wishing to take part should sign up at their local library and read six books over the summer holidays, which can include graphic novels and poetry, as well as regular stories and non-fiction.

A Yeovil service and maintenance technician has been recognised for his outstanding achievement at a local car dealership. Harry Matterface from Vertu BMW Yeovil has been named BMW’s apprentice of the year, after completing his course last year, with a distinction in all areas. Since qualifying, he has transitioned to a full role with the company.

More from News

Friday 17th July

Plans have been submitted to build 30 new homes in Ashill. As the heatwave continues, a Somerset air conditioning business says demand for its services has never been higher. Morrisons has confirmed it will close its Glenthorne Avenue store in Yeovil on August 1st... and more
Thursday 16th July

Plans to build up to one hundred new homes on Yeovil's former cattle market have moved a step closer. It’s being made easier for parents in Somerset to register children for free school meals. Wessex Water says it has no plans for a hosepipe ban at the moment but is keeping a close eye on supplies as demand increases... and more
Wednesday 15th July

Bus passengers in Yeovil have been provided with easier access to the town's bus station. Firefighters are warning of an increased risk of wildfires because of the hot weather. Aldi is asking for public comments on plans to build a new food store in Chard... and more
Tuesday 14th July

A Martock machinery business has been bought out of administration saving the jobs of 15 employees. A Somerton man has pleaded not guilty to dangerous driving after a car crashed into a house in Martock. Drivers are being reminded that the A303 between South Petherton and Ilminster will be closed in both directions overnight from tonight... and more
Monday 13th July

Somerset Council says it's lost £91 million on commercial property investments. The former Clay Pigeon Karting Track near Yeovil is to be turned into a holiday park. The fire service is warning the dry conditions continue to pose a risk of grass fires... and more
Friday 10th July

The inquest into the death of a sex offender has returned an open conclusion. A driver has been arrested after a pursuit across the county. Ilminster Arts Centre has held its 2026 Open Exhibition Prize Giving Event... and more
Thursday 9th July

A father who shook his baby to death has been convicted of murder. Local people at high risk of having oesophageal cancer can take part in a new NHS test. Cheddar Reservoir will be closed to the public until next Monday morning because of the extreme heat... and more
Wednesday 8th July

NHS Somerset is warning us to take care as a new amber heat-health alert comes into place. A Yeovil encampment of campervans could soon be evicted. Chard’s former Oscar Mayer site could become home to a new Aldi... and more