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

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