Monday 7th September

Monday, 7 September 2026 06:00

By Steve Haigh

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

Avon and Somerset Police are warning about a new scam involving criminals posing as police officers. They say people are receiving phone calls from fraudsters claiming their personal information has been compromised, their bank accounts are at risk, or their details have been linked to criminal activity. In some cases, callers claim a suspect has been arrested and the victim’s details were found during the investigation. Police say genuine officers will never ask you to transfer money or reveal sensitive banking information over the phone. If you think you’ve received a scam call, contact the police non-emergency number on 101 or 999 in an emergency. You can also visit your nearest police station and speak to an officer in person.

Flu vaccinations are now available on the NHS ahead of the winter. Eligible patients are being contacted about having the jab. Mike Hewitson, a community pharmacist in Norton-sub-Hamdon, says getting vaccinated can help protect people from serious illness and keep them out of hospital.

Bridgwater Conservative MP Sir Ashley Fox says allowing carnival carts to use red diesel could help keep local carnival clubs operating. He’s calling on the government to add carnival carts to the list of vehicles permitted to use the much lower-taxed fuel. Duncan White, from Bridgwater’s Guy Fawkes Carnival, is due to meet government officials later this week to discuss the issue.

The Green Party has retained its seat in Frome West on Somerset Council following a by-election. Dominic Ellison was elected with 663 votes, beating Liberal Democrat Drew Gardner by 119. Reform UK finished third, with Labour and the Conservatives further behind. Turnout was just under 22 per cent. The by-election was triggered by the resignation of former Green Party councillor Michael Dunk, following his conviction over a Just Stop Oil protest.

And Liverpool comedian John Bishop has cancelled his upcoming show in Taunton after breaking his ankle. He was due to perform at Somerset County Cricket Club’s ground this Friday, alongside comedians Justin Moorhouse and Sally-Anne Hayward. Somerset County Cricket Club says all tickets will be refunded.

More from News

Thursday 8th October

Somerset Council is to press ahead with increases to parking charges at its car parks. Police say increasing numbers of young people in Somerset are riding e-scooters illegally. Wells market has received national recognition...and more
Wednesday 7th October

Somerset Council says it's started talks about what do with the Brewhouse theatre in Taunton after it closes at the end of the month. A Chard man has been sentenced for keeping multiple different dogs despite being banned from doing so. NHS van drivers based in Bridgwater who supply hospitals in Somerset with essential medical equipment will walk out on strike next week... and more
Tuesday 6th October

Prince William is visiting Ilminster today, where he will launch ‘Ready Together’, a new initiative helping communities prepare for emergencies. Barwick and Stoford Primary School near Yeovil says it's confident of emerging stronger after being placed in special measures by Ofsted. Vapes and weight-loss jabs are putting workers at recycling centres in Somerset at risk after being wrongly thrown away...and more
Monday 5th October

Ilminster is gearing up for a Royal visit by Prince William tomorrow. Plans have been approved to convert the former Battens Solicitors building on Princes Street in Yeovil into 21 flats. A 'Just Giving' page has opened for making donations towards Ilminster Carnival which, on Saturday, had to be cancelled midway through due to a gas leak...and more
Friday 2nd October

An investigation's underway after two people died in a collision near Taunton. A Somerset-based charity has warned of the risks of fuel poverty this winter. A Somerset healthcare service has been recognised with a national award.... and more.
Thursday 1st October

765 new homes have been given planning permission on the edge of Yeovil. Somerset Council’s Executive will meet to consider new parking charges. Four of the county’s best military cadets have been appointed as Lord-Lieutenant cadets... and more.
Wednesday 30th September

Police are appealing for a missing 17 year old from Castle Cary. A registered sex offender has been sentenced to 9 years in prison. A former Chard student who is one of six writers in the running to win this year's Booker Prize has paid tribute to his childhood teachers... and more.
Tuesday 29th September

Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service say this summer saw record-breaking levels of demand. The charity that runs the Brewhouse Theatre has confirmed that it will definitely close. A Chard charity has launched a minibus service to improve community transport... and more.