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

Friday 8th May

Police investigating a fire in Shepton Mallet are appealing for help to identify two people. Yeovil MP Adam Dance has called for more government support for Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service. This weekend sees the start of the Great Gardening Show at The Newt near Bruton...and more
Thursday 7th May

A disabled man has taken his case to the High Court, arguing that Somerset Council’s council tax reduction scheme is discriminatory. Bristol Airport says travellers planning summer holidays should not change their plans. Chard and Ilminster Amateur Boxing Club has launched a fundraising appeal,..and more
Wednesday 6th May

Pharmacists in Somerset say it's becoming difficult to get hold of some medications. The building used as Club Neo in Stars Lane in Yeovil has been put up for sale. Free gym memberships are being offered to people living with Parkinson's in Somerset...and more
Tuesday 5th May

An investigation has been launched following a suspected arson attack at Sherborne Police Station. Somerset Council is spending £2.3 million on 14 new road gritters. Ilminster Literary Festival is marking its tenth anniversary this year... and more
Friday 1st May

A Yeovil man has pleaded guilty to threatening behaviour towards two female paramedics. Police in Chard are appealing for the public’s help following a spate of thefts in the Henson Park area of the town. Pet store chain, Jollyes, is opening a new branch in Yeovil... and more
Thursday 30th April

More than 4,500 people have expressed interest in joining a new NHS dental practice in Crewkerne. Somerset Council says a long-term solution is needed to make Hendford Hill in Yeovil fully safe for motorists. A Somerset man has won first prize at the World Marmalade Awards... and more
Wednesday 29th April

Somerset Council says Hendford Hill in Yeovil should be fully reopened to traffic by the end of May. Plans have been approved to build 40 new homes in Crewkerne. A huge pile of illegally dumped rubbish in Glastonbury has been cleared... and more
Tuesday 28th April

Police are appealing for witnesses to a fatal collision at Rimpton. A 19-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of criminal damage in South Petherton. Former Yeovil Town manager Gary Johnson has been retained as first-team manager of Taunton Town for next season... and more