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

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
Thursday 3rd September

Fifteen thousand people have signed a petition calling on Somerset Council to cancel plans for a huge data centre in Bridgwater. A nest of Asian hornets has been found in Somerset. More patients in Somerset are set to benefit from a hospital project aimed at restoring independence... and more
Wednesday 2nd September

Yeovil-based charity, School in a Bag, has started sending supplies to Nepal to help in the aftermath of the devastating floods. 6,000 people have signed a petition opposing plans for a new relief road in Chard. The Royal British Legion in Somerset is appealing for more volunteers to help run this year’s Poppy Appeal... and more
Tuesday 1st September

One person had to be cut free from a vehicle following a two-vehicle collision on the A30 near Chard. A Yeovil man has been jailed for 7-and-a-half years for supplying cocaine and cannabis. Two Somerset teenagers have become the youngest to swim the Bristol Channel... and more
Friday 28th August

An organisation that investigates loan sharks has opened a branch in Taunton. Free parking on Sundays in Somerset's main towns could end just before Christmas. Local communities in and around Draycott will be able to take advantage of a shuttle bus service... and more.
Thursday 27th August

A 21 mile stretch of the M5 is to be given a 50mph speed limit for three years. Chard remains a safe place to work, live and visit say Avon & Somerset Police. Sunflowers of Somerset is celebrating its 10th anniversary with a photography competition and community activities... and more.
Wednesday 26th August

Two people have been arrested and released under investigation after the death of a baby in Crewkerne. A large sand picture of the prime minister has appeared in Burnham On Sea. The wet winter and hot summer means cider producers are struggling with their yields... and more.
Tuesday 25th August

Fire crews have been dealing with a fire in Ilchester which broke out yesterday afternoon. Somerset’s frontline health services say heatwaves and tourism are making their jobs more difficult. A Chard health store has been named Natural Lifestyle Retailer of the Year.. and more.