Wednesday 14th January

Wednesday, 14 January 2026 at 05:00

By Steve Haigh

The union representing workers at Leonardo in Yeovil says it needs a clear answer from the government on whether the Yeovil factory will be awarded a contract to build new medium-lift helicopters for the RAF. Somerset Council says more support will be provided to foster carers. A bird flu surveillance zone remains in place over the Somerset Levels...and more

The union representing workers at Leonardo in Yeovil says it needs a clear answer from the government on whether the Yeovil factory will be awarded a contract to build new medium-lift helicopters for the RAF. Leonardo has warned it will shut the Yeovil factory if the order, reportedly worth 1.4 billion pounds, is not confirmed by March 31st. The government says it will make a decision on the order when the Defence Spending Programme is published, but hasn't said when that will be.

Somerset Council says more support is to be given to foster carers after the number of fostering households in Somerset fell again last year. The council will expand its support network for foster families and establish a new intervention team to provide 7-day-a-week support.

A bird flu surveillance zone remains in place over the Somerset Levels. Avian influenza was first detected near Bridgwater in November, and a protection zone with stricter biosecurity measures remains in place. Cases of Avian flu have also been reported in commercial flocks near Tiverton and Winsford on Exmoor.

A group of mothers on Exmoor is highlighting the learning challenges faced by rural schools. ‘Moorland Mums’ says children on Exmoor struggle to get the same opportunities as children in urban areas. They’re planning several events, including a sponsored walk around the perimeter of Exmoor National Park, to raise funds to purchase computers for schools on Exmoor.

Great Western Railway is inviting charities, community groups, and voluntary organisations to apply for funding for rail-related projects. Last year, the rail operator supported more than ninety projects across the region, funding projects worth tens of thousands of pounds.

The village of Winscombe in Somerset is starring in a new TV show to the delight of its residents. The BBC comedy ‘Can You Keep A Secret’ starring Dawn French was filmed at various locations in Somerset, including Axbridge and Cheddar.

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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