Monday 11th May

Monday, 11 May 2026 06:00

By Steve Haigh

New figures show a sharp increase in reports of drones interfering with critical air ambulance missions. The Liberal Democrats have retained the Mendip Hills seat on Somerset Council following a by-election. A woman from Chard has been recognised for her contribution to the community with an invitation to the King’s Garden Party at Buckingham Palace... and more

Helicopter pilots working for air ambulances in the South West have issued a warning to drone operators following a rise in disruptions to emergency flights. New figures show a sharp increase in reports of drones interfering with critical air ambulance missions, with drones flown close to helicopters by people attempting to capture footage for social media. Pilots say the problem is becoming increasingly dangerous, with some emergency missions delayed or even aborted. The Civil Aviation Authority is reminding drone operators that strict regulations prohibit flying near the scene of an emergency response.

The Liberal Democrats have retained the Mendip Hills seat on Somerset Council following a by-election. Sam Phripp won the seat with one thousand, five hundred and thirty-four votes. Reform UK candidate Greg Stone finished second on nine hundred and thirty-six votes.
Somerset Council has announced plans to build six hundred new homes over the next five years as part of efforts to address housing demand across the county.

An appeal has been launched for more people to foster abandoned animals. Animal fosterers provide temporary homes for pets while they are prepared for permanent adoption. Charities say foster care plays a vital role in helping animals adjust to life in a home environment and recover from neglect or abandonment.

A woman from Chard has been recognised for her contribution to the community with an invitation to the King’s Garden Party at Buckingham Palace. Hilary Willoughby attended the event in recognition of thirty years of service to the Chard St Mary’s Walking Group, where she currently serves as chair.

In women’s rugby, Yeovil’s Marlie Packer scored four tries for England in their victory over Italy at the weekend. The result means the Women’s Six Nations title will be decided on the final day of the tournament, when England face France next Sunday.

More from News

Tuesday 2nd June

Somerset Prostate Cancer Support Group says a decision not to introduce mass screening for prostate cancer is the wrong one. A Martock woman has been banned from driving for 28 months. Somerset Council is marking Volunteers’ Week by thanking the volunteers who help deliver council services... and more
Monday 1st June

People in Somerset with Football Banning Orders are being reminded they must surrender their passports by the end of today ahead of the upcoming FIFA World Cup tournament. A road in Yeovil will close for nine days later this week. Farmers from Somerset were among the winners of this year's ITV Britain's Got Talent final...and more
Friday 29th May

South Western Ambulance Service is struggling to cope after a surge in 999 calls during the hot weather. Glastonbury and Somerton MP Sarah Dyke says a shortage of rental homes is making it harder for rural employers to attract workers. The National Trust is warning that changing weather patterns are making it difficult to maintain the Cerne Abbas Giant... and more
Thursday 28th May

People are being asked to take extra care in parks and open spaces as high temperatures and dry conditions increase the risk of fire. Plans to build hundreds of new homes in Yeovil can now go ahead after a High Court challenge by Mudford Parish Council was dismissed. A Somerset bakery chain has sparked a reaction after it stopped making iced buns... and more
Wednesday 27th May

The UK Health Security Agency has increased its heat health alert for Somerset to amber. Trading Standards officers have shut down three shops in Taunton after illegal cigarettes and vapes were discovered on the premises. Bridgwater Town Council is considering running its own bus services...and more
Tuesday 26th May

A Martock agricultural machinery business has gone into administration, putting around thirty jobs at risk. A new sensory room has opened at a Yeovil schook to support neurodiverse pupils. The headteacher of a Chard primary school is stepping down... and more
Friday 22nd May

The National Farmers Union in Somerset has welcomed the government’s new trade deal with six Gulf countries. Campaigners say Somerset’s canals and locks are in urgent need new investment. The Liverpool comedian John Bishop is heading to Somerset later this year...and more
Thursday 21st May

Police are being asked to cut the time the M5 is closed following accidents. Plans to build a major solar farm near Chard have been thrown out. Aldi is asking shoppers to help find locations for new stores in Somerset...and more