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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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