Thursday 9th July

Thursday, 9 July 2026 06:30

A father who shook his baby to death has been convicted of murder. Local people at high risk of having oesophageal cancer can take part in a new NHS test. Cheddar Reservoir will be closed to the public until next Monday morning because of the extreme heat... and more

A father who shook his four-week-old baby to death has been convicted of murder following a trial at Bristol Crown Court. Tony Bartlett, aged 39, of Axminster, caused severe injuries to his son Atticus during an incident at the family home in Chard. Despite the best efforts of medical professionals and neighbours, the boy could not be saved. Bartlett will be sentenced at Bristol Crown Court on Friday 24^th July.

People in Langport ,Bridgwater and Chard who are at high risk of having oesophageal cancer can take part in a new NHS test. Somerset NHS Foundation Trust is the first in the country to proactively contact people who are at risk to offer a quick test that could catch oesophageal cancer before symptoms appear.

Two garden designers from Somerset are hoping a new RHS flower show will help them raise awareness of multiple sclerosis. Michael Leech from Somerton and Gavin Moth from Langport have designed a garden for RHS Badminton, which opened in Gloucestershire yesterday.

Cheddar Reservoir will be closed to the public until next Monday morning because of the extreme heat. An amber heat warning is in place until 9pm on Sunday. Bristol Water says there is very little shade around the reservoir and warns the water can be dangerous. The company says the move is designed to protect visitors and reduce pressure on emergency services.

And 30 young professionals in the county are set to be recognised through a new award scheme. Somerset Chamber of Commerce has launched the Somerset Future 30 Awards, recognising young professionals under the age of 30 who are making an impact locally. Entries are now open and nominees must be aged 30 or younger and either employed or self-employed with a Somerset-based organisation.