Tuesday 20th January

Tuesday, 20 January 2026 06:00

By Steve Haigh

Citizens Advice says thousands of people in Somerset have lost some or all of their council tax discount. The UK's first autonomous full-size helicopter, manufactured by Leonardo in Yeovil, has successfully completed its maiden flight. A new pharmacy has opened in Wincanton...and more

Citizens Advice says thousands of people in Somerset have lost some or all of their council tax discount after being moved onto Universal Credit. Somerset Council is urging people struggling to pay their bills to get in touch, as they could be eligible for discretionary funds.

The UK's first autonomous full-size helicopter, Proteus, manufactured by Leonardo in Yeovil, has successfully completed its maiden flight. The aircraft, built for the Royal Navy and designed to unlock the potential of uncrewed aerial systems, made its inaugural flight from the Predannack Airfield in Cornwall.

HGV drivers can now stop off for a free health check at a new NHS clinic in Somerset. Based at the Truckstop at Junction 24 on the M5, the clinic recognises the mental health issues associated with lorry driving.

Approval has been given to build 12 new homes in Chard. The properties, four of which will be ‘affordable’, will be built on land off Jarman Way.

A new pharmacy has opened in Wincanton. The Medicine Clinic is on the High Street, next to Clementina.

The cancer charity Marie Curie is seeking volunteers to help with its Great Daffodil Appeal. This year marks the 40th anniversary of the appeal and aims to raise £20,000 to support Marie Curie's end-of-life services.

The Friends of Chard Reservoir are looking for new members. The group serves as a hub of community involvement, focusing on enhancing health and well-being through the reservoir and nature reserve. Details about joining can be found on the Friends of Chard Reservoir Facebook page.

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Tuesday 15th September

Police investigating an attack on a shop worker in Yeovil have released CCTV images of a man and woman they want to speak to. Farmers in Somerset are being warned to expect more cases of bluetongue. Ilminster Carnival Committee has announced the cancellation of this year's Children's Carnival due to a lack of entries... and more
Monday 14th September

Two new mobile NHS breast screening units have taken to the road in Somerset. More than 700 new homes are to be built alongside the M5 in Bridgwater. Dawes Twineworks in West Coker is one of several venues open to the public for free this month... and more
Friday 11th September

It’s going to cost more to park in Chard. Police have issued an image of a man they want to speak to in connection with two burglaries in Yeovil. Somerset Cricket Club is planning to stage performances by some of the world's biggest artistes at their Taunton ground... and more
Thursday 10th September

Work has begun building a new multi-million-pound David Lloyd leisure centre in Yeovil. NHS Somerset says a new system to handle emergency stroke care will lead to "better outcomes" for patients. Tickets for next year’s Glastonbury Festival will go on sale in October...and more
Wednesday 9th September

Police have released an image of a man they want to speak to following an assault in Yeovil. Businesses in Taunton say they're worried that planned changes to parking rules could put people off visiting the town. The Red Arrows will take to the skies near the Somerset border in a one-off display later this week... and more
Tuesday 8th September

Police in Avon and Somerset say they’re dealing with a big increase in reports of cloned vehicle fraud. A new video system designed to speed up stroke care has been launched in Somerset. Pilgrims are walking through Somerset this week to mark eight hundred years since the death of Saint Francis of Assisi... and more
Monday 7th September

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
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