Tuesday 20th January

Tuesday, 20 January 2026 at 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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Friday 30th October

Wells Cathedral says it's having to get creative to bring in more money as financial pressures continue to grow. A convenience store in Martock has been allowed to keep its alcohol licence despite an employee working there illegally. Police have seized an illegally ridden e-scooter in Yeovil in response to concerns from local residents... and more
Thursday 29th October

A Yeovil man has been detained under the Mental Health Act for attacking his mother with a knife. People in Chard are being reminded that it’s unlawful to attach flags to lamp posts and street furniture. Wincanton Racecourse has called off its 'Badger Chase Day' because the ground is too firm... and more
Wednesday 28th October

Leweston School near Sherborne has announced that it is closing with immediate effect. NHS Somerset could merge with neighbours in Bath and North-East Somerset and Dorset to cut costs. Somerset’s Lord-Lieutenant has launched a campaign to get more people nominated for national honours... and more
Tuesday 27th October

Work has started building a new six-million-pound flood defence scheme in Taunton. Plans have been submitted to build a new church hall in Martock. People are being asked to donate gifts to this year’s Chard Christmas Present Appeal... and more
Monday 26th October

Eligible groups in Somerset are being encouraged to get their flu jabs. There’s a rare opportunity to get a behind-the-scenes look inside Avon & Somerset Police’s control room. Liberal Democrat Deputy Leader, Daisy Cooper MP, has visited Yeovil... and more.
Friday 23rd October

Somerset is the 11th most challenging place in England to be a child according to a report. Dorset, Somerset and Wiltshire could have its own elected ‘Wessex Mayor’ by 2028. Cricketer, Ian Botham returns to the county this weekend... and more.
Thursday 22nd October

The NFU says that testing for the virus Bluetongue needs to be sped up. Construction of new flats on Yeovil’s Grimsby Corner site will officially begin next year. The Met Office has issued a yellow warning for wind tomorrow... and more.
Wednesday 21st October

The owner of campsite in Somerset says a two-thousand-seven-hundred percent increase in business rates will be 'catastrophic' for his business. Plans to build nearly 300 new homes on the outskirts of Chard have been given the go ahead. Yeovil Town are through to the first round proper of the FA Cup after beating Leatherhead 5-2 at Huish Park last night... and more