Monday 11th May

Monday, 11 May 2026 06:00

By Steve Haigh

New figures show a sharp increase in reports of drones interfering with critical air ambulance missions. The Liberal Democrats have retained the Mendip Hills seat on Somerset Council following a by-election. A woman from Chard has been recognised for her contribution to the community with an invitation to the King’s Garden Party at Buckingham Palace... and more

Helicopter pilots working for air ambulances in the South West have issued a warning to drone operators following a rise in disruptions to emergency flights. New figures show a sharp increase in reports of drones interfering with critical air ambulance missions, with drones flown close to helicopters by people attempting to capture footage for social media. Pilots say the problem is becoming increasingly dangerous, with some emergency missions delayed or even aborted. The Civil Aviation Authority is reminding drone operators that strict regulations prohibit flying near the scene of an emergency response.

The Liberal Democrats have retained the Mendip Hills seat on Somerset Council following a by-election. Sam Phripp won the seat with one thousand, five hundred and thirty-four votes. Reform UK candidate Greg Stone finished second on nine hundred and thirty-six votes.
Somerset Council has announced plans to build six hundred new homes over the next five years as part of efforts to address housing demand across the county.

An appeal has been launched for more people to foster abandoned animals. Animal fosterers provide temporary homes for pets while they are prepared for permanent adoption. Charities say foster care plays a vital role in helping animals adjust to life in a home environment and recover from neglect or abandonment.

A woman from Chard has been recognised for her contribution to the community with an invitation to the King’s Garden Party at Buckingham Palace. Hilary Willoughby attended the event in recognition of thirty years of service to the Chard St Mary’s Walking Group, where she currently serves as chair.

In women’s rugby, Yeovil’s Marlie Packer scored four tries for England in their victory over Italy at the weekend. The result means the Women’s Six Nations title will be decided on the final day of the tournament, when England face France next Sunday.

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