Wednesday 12th November

Wednesday, 12 November 2025 at 05:00

By Steve Haigh

Workers belonging to the Unite union at Leonardo Helicopters in Yeovil begin a two-day strike today. Yeovil MP, Adam Dance, has been speaking in a parliamentary debate on improving dyslexia support in schools. South Western Ambulance Service is inviting applications for positions on its governing council...and more

Workers belonging to the Unite union at Leonardo Helicopters in Yeovil begin a two-day strike today following their rejection of the company’s latest pay offer. Workers at sites in Edinburgh, Newcastle, Basildon and Luton are also on strike. Unite says its members rejected an initial 3.2% pay rise, followed by a further offer of a 3.6% rise, claiming both offers were below the rate of inflation. Leonardo says it's disappointed that its 'revised pay offer' has not been positively received and welcomes the union back to the table to resolve the situation. Unite is planning another two-day stoppage on the 25th and 28th of November.

Yeovil MP, Adam Dance, has been speaking in a parliamentary debate on improving dyslexia support in schools. Mr Dance, who has dyslexia and ADHD, is calling for early screening of neurodivergent traits and more assistive technology in schools. The government states that it's spending an additional £1 billion on SEND provision this year.

Avon and Somerset Police are attempting to prevent uninsured drivers from using their vehicles. They've joined a national campaign after seizing nearly 2,500 uninsured vehicles in Somerset so far this year.

Wessex Water, which manages wastewater in much of Somerset, could be forced to spend £11m on sewage improvements. Ofwat states that the company has failed to maintain the system, resulting in sewage entering rivers and seas. They've proposed an enforcement package to reduce spills and fix pipes. Wessex Water states that the company will pay the bill, not its customers.

South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust is inviting applications for positions on its governing council. The role involves helping to shape the ambulance service's future and making sure the service is accountable and responsive to those it serves. Nominations close next Wednesday, November 19th.

Yeovil Town has appointed a new Head of Recruitment. He’s Jamie Hedges, who joins from Aldershot Town. The Club states that Hedges will report directly to the Board, working alongside the first-team manager to identify and secure players who fit Yeovil Town’s style, ethos, and budget.

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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