Wednesday 12th November

Wednesday, 12 November 2025 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 24th April

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Thursday 23rd April

Helicopters from RNAS Yeovilton have completed six weeks of sorties, protecting Cyprus from attacks by Iran. People in Somerset who use domestic heating oil are calling on the government to regulate the oil supply industry. Patients are being invited to register at a new NHS dentist in Crewkerne... and more
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NHS Somerset has delayed closing the hyper-acute stroke unit at Yeovil Hospital. A former Avon and Somerset Police officer has been jailed for making indecent images of children. A Somerset man has been fined after pleading guilty to hunting a wild animal with dogs... and more
Monday 20th April

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