An ex-Somerset MP who quit politics after allegations of sexual misconduct has died suddenly. The A378 in Langport has now reopened after extensive work. Crewkerne’s annual Charter Fair, which can be traced back to Saxon times, returns this weekend...and more.
An ex-Somerset MP who quit politics after allegations of sexual misconduct has died suddenly. David Warburton, who represented Somerton & Frome, which was a neighbouring constituency to Yeovil, died in London on Tuesday last week. Former Yeovil MP Marcus Fysh described Warburton as a talented and sensitive person with a great flair for words and a passion for his constituents.
The A378 in Langport has now reopened under the railway bridge following extensive work. Teams began in July to add new steelwork to the underside of the bridge, ensuring the Castle Cary to Taunton railway line continues to run safely and reliably. The bridge had been closed since August 4th, but is now open again.
Meanwhile, a stretch of Ham Hill will be closed for six hours on Monday to allow for pole replacement and tree cutting. Ninety metres of the road will shut from 9.30 am, heading south-east from the High Street. The council have explained that the closure is necessary to keep the public safe whilst works are carried out. An alternative route will be established.
A Crewkerne building that provides computer servicing could be converted from office space to a residential dwelling if the Somerset Council approves a new planning application. The premises at 27 South Street would undergo internal alterations, but no external changes, in a bid to preserve the appearance and character of the conservation area.
Crewkerne’s annual Charter Fair returns this weekend, with the town centre being transformed into a fairground and marketplace. Edward Danter’s Funfair will open at 4:45 on Friday afternoon. The street market will take place from 10 am on Sunday, and the local Rotary Club will hold its annual grand raffle at 2 pm that afternoon. The street fair can be traced back to Saxon times and was documented in the Domesday Book.
Somerset Council has warned that more homes are likely to flood with further heavy rain forecast to end the week. Discount retailer, The Original Factory Shop, which has an outlet in Crewkerne, has gone into administration. A Barista at Costa Coffee in Ilminster has won a place in the finals of a national competition...and more
Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance has announced plans to develop a new operational base on the Leonardo airfield in Yeovil. Several people have been rescued from their homes in Ilminster due to flooding. An £800,000 project is underway to restore two staircases at Montecute House...and more
Last week was the wettest seven-day period in Somerset for twelve years. NHS Somerset says it’s working towards making access to dental care fairer for all. A scout leader in Somerset has been awarded the British Empire Medal for services to Young People...and more
A new group has been formed to challenge plans to build 100 new homes in Keinton Mandeville. Bridgwater Town Council has voted to increase its share of the Council Tax by 5%. Organisers of Yeovil in Bloom are appealing for young people to get involved in this year’s competition...and more
New data shows that South Western Ambulance is one of the worst-performing ambulance trusts in England. Plans to introduce improved accessibility at Yeovil Junction station have moved a step closer. A community centre in Street is providing vulnerable people with a warm, safe place to meet...and more.
A new NHS diagnostic centre has opened in Yeovil. The go-ahead has been given to build a replacement school for Milford Junior School in Yeovil. A new 500-bed hotel-style campus is being planned to accommodate workers at the new Agratas car battery factory near Bridgwater...and more
Councillors have approved controversial plans to build four large carnival club sheds near Ilminster. Somerset Council says there's an increasing gap between the cost of education and the amount the government provides to run local schools. The Bridgwater Tidal Barrier, aimed at protecting homes and businesses from flooding, has been reduced in size...and more
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