Monday 11th May

Monday, 11 May 2026 at 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

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