Friday 5th September

Friday, 5 September 2025 06:00

A large water leak in Yeovil closed part of Middle Street last night whilst repairs took place. A Somerset MP has been voicing his concerns over warnings of future flood dangers in the county. The Wincanton branch of Lidl could be demolished to be replaced with a bigger store...and more.

Yeovil has been facing its second mains water issue in a month. Wessex Water closed Middle Street yesterday between Old Station Road and Newton Road to carry out urgent repairs after a large leak. It’s thought around 100 residents have been affected, with Wessex Water setting up a bottled water station on Earl Street, and vulnerable customers receiving deliveries direct to their door.

A Somerset MP has been voicing his concerns over the warnings we shared last week of future flood dangers in the county. The Environment Agency announced in August that it was stopping maintenance on smaller rivers and streams to focus on larger stretches, where the flood risk is greater. But Bridgwater MP, Sir Ashley Fox, told the Commons it was a dangerous move, saying his constituents were concerned that without proper maintenance, the county would see the return of 2013/14 levels of flooding. In response, the Leader of the Commons, Lucy Powell, said ministers would look at it and provide a response, and are determined that the Environment Agency and others are held to account for the actions they take.

The Wincanton branch of Lidl could be demolished to be replaced with a bigger store. The supermarket has made a formal planning application to Somerset Council, with the plans also on show in the store itself. It’s thought the expansion would mean additional jobs, a state-of-the-art store, and a drive-thru unit. The old building would remain open for trade for the majority of the building works, although it would need to close entirely for a few weeks as the plan came to fruition.

The Ferne Animal Sanctuary are putting the final preparations in place for their 31st annual dog show this Sunday. The charity’s 72-acre site near Chard will be the venue for a day out catering for dogs and owners alike. Alongside the contests, there will be an agility course, a sit-and-stay challenge and ‘Temptation Alley’ to test the bond between owners and their dogs.

More from News

Thursday 4th September

A new leisure complex on the edge of Yeovil will be built, after plans were approved by Somerset Council. Landmarks across the south-west will be illuminated from Monday to mark Air Ambulance Week. YAOS are hoping to trace passengers stranded at Gander Airport in Newfoundland after the 9/11 attacks...and more.
Wednesday 3rd September

Yeovil’s MP, Adam Dance, will introduce his first Bill to Parliament next week, proposing dyslexia screening. The 2025 Ilminster Neighbourhood Plan referendum has won a massive majority in the town. Chard residents are being encouraged to report crime and antisocial behaviour...and more.
Tuesday 2nd September

An ex-Somerset MP who quit politics after allegations of sexual misconduct has died suddenly. The A378 in Langport has now reopened after extensive work. Crewkerne’s annual Charter Fair, which can be traced back to Saxon times, returns this weekend...and more.
Monday 1st September

The taps are back on in Yeovil, after large parts of the town were left without water on Friday. South Somerset is now considered the UK’s top alternative to the Cotswolds. Yeovil is gearing up for the return of its Literary Festival this October...and more.
Friday 29th August

The Assistant Chief Constable of Avon and Somerset Police says she wants to instil trust in the force. Chard businesses are voicing their concerns after major roadworks started in the town. A farmer who produces potatoes for the crisp industry says the rainfall is welcome but yields will be down... and more.
Thursday 28th August

A Marston Magna man who fell ill on holiday has died. A film of Yeovil’s fundraiser for famine relief is being screened tonight, forty years on. A South Somerset contestant has been ranked fifth place at the World’s Strongest Man (Natural) contest...and more.
Wednesday 27th August

Concerns are being raised over the maintenance of the River Cary, following reports of planned cutbacks. It could be an earlier harvest for Somerset cider growers this autumn after a warm summer. The Teals Farm Shop has revealed plans to broaden its services...and more.
Tuesday 26th August

An investigation is underway after a man was found seriously injured in the Queensway Place area of Yeovil . A man has been charged with murder following an incident in South Petherton. Yeovil Town FC have confirmed that Mark Cooper has been relieved of his duties... and more.