Wednesday 14th January

Wednesday, 14 January 2026 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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Friday 12th June

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