Local News Thursday 18th March

Thursday, 18 March 2021 at 07:30

Controversial plans to restructure the school system in Ilminster and Crewkerne have finally been approved by Somerset County Council. Yeovil MP Marcus Fysh has been defending the government's Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Bill. Firefighters have rescued a dog after it became stuck down a rabbit hole in Martock....and more.

Controversial plans to restructure the school system in Ilminster and Crewkerne have finally been approved by Somerset County Council. Wadham School will become a secondary school; Maiden Beech, Ashlands, St Bartholomew’s, Merriott and Haselbury Plucknett will become primary schools; Swanmead and Greenfylde will amalgamate and become a primary school and Misterton school is set to close. Governors at Swanmead said they are "shocked, angry and very sad" about the way the plans have been handled by the County Council. The Council said all views had been considered and their priority was to secure a high-quality education for all pupils.

Yeovil MP Marcus Fysh has been defending the government's Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Bill.
The legislation’s been criticised for not doing enough to tackle harassment and violence against women. Clauses in the Bill allowing police to impose conditions on non-violent protests have also been criticised. Marcus Fysh believes the Bill has many good points and should be welcomed.

Firefighters have rescued a dog after it became stuck down a rabbit hole in Martock. Listening equipment was used to locate Lincoln, a terrier dog after it got into trouble underground in Gastons Lane.

The funeral takes place today of Yeovil entertainer Jimmy Quinn. After service in the Navy, Jimmy turned to show business and is remembered for recording the Yeovil Town anthem ‘Here We Go’ played throughout the season the Glovers won promotion to the Championship in 2013

The Bishop of Bath and Wells has retired early from his post, due to ill health. The Right Reverend Peter Hancock has been receiving treatment for cancer since August. Until his successor has been appointed, the Bishop of Taunton, Ruth Worsley, will continue to lead the diocese.

Ilminster Midsummer Experience will be back-on this year. It’ll be held from June 24th until June 27th, two weeks later than normal due to coronavirus restrictions. The Ilminster Flag Festival has been extended and will run from May 31st until July 4th.

Radio Ninesprings Local News is compiled and edited by our Station Manager Steve Haigh

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