Friday 3rd July

Friday, 3 July 2026 at 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.

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Friday 30th October

Wells Cathedral says it's having to get creative to bring in more money as financial pressures continue to grow. A convenience store in Martock has been allowed to keep its alcohol licence despite an employee working there illegally. Police have seized an illegally ridden e-scooter in Yeovil in response to concerns from local residents... and more
Thursday 29th October

A Yeovil man has been detained under the Mental Health Act for attacking his mother with a knife. People in Chard are being reminded that it’s unlawful to attach flags to lamp posts and street furniture. Wincanton Racecourse has called off its 'Badger Chase Day' because the ground is too firm... and more
Wednesday 28th October

Leweston School near Sherborne has announced that it is closing with immediate effect. NHS Somerset could merge with neighbours in Bath and North-East Somerset and Dorset to cut costs. Somerset’s Lord-Lieutenant has launched a campaign to get more people nominated for national honours... and more
Tuesday 27th October

Work has started building a new six-million-pound flood defence scheme in Taunton. Plans have been submitted to build a new church hall in Martock. People are being asked to donate gifts to this year’s Chard Christmas Present Appeal... and more
Monday 26th October

Eligible groups in Somerset are being encouraged to get their flu jabs. There’s a rare opportunity to get a behind-the-scenes look inside Avon & Somerset Police’s control room. Liberal Democrat Deputy Leader, Daisy Cooper MP, has visited Yeovil... and more.
Friday 23rd October

Somerset is the 11th most challenging place in England to be a child according to a report. Dorset, Somerset and Wiltshire could have its own elected ‘Wessex Mayor’ by 2028. Cricketer, Ian Botham returns to the county this weekend... and more.
Thursday 22nd October

The NFU says that testing for the virus Bluetongue needs to be sped up. Construction of new flats on Yeovil’s Grimsby Corner site will officially begin next year. The Met Office has issued a yellow warning for wind tomorrow... and more.
Wednesday 21st October

The owner of campsite in Somerset says a two-thousand-seven-hundred percent increase in business rates will be 'catastrophic' for his business. Plans to build nearly 300 new homes on the outskirts of Chard have been given the go ahead. Yeovil Town are through to the first round proper of the FA Cup after beating Leatherhead 5-2 at Huish Park last night... and more