The Somerset Leveller - Issue 185 - 15th Oct 2025

Curry Rivel

Learn

Dundon

High

Aller Pitney

Langport

Somerton

Huish Episcopi

Muchelney

Kingweston

Chalrton

Mandeville

Chalrton

Kingsdon

Long Sutton

Long

Adam Keinton

Awards for officers after 'rescue'

FREEZING temperatures on a November day in Somerset did not prevent two police officers risking their own lives to rescue a child who was reported to have fallen into a lake.

In November 2024, police received a 999 call from a child who said that nine-year-old friend had fallen into a lake near Burnham-on-Sea.

Sgt Joe Pitman and his colleague, who does not wish to be named, went to the scene and spoke to the child.

"The girl seemed quite distressed, and was saying, 'My friend’s fallen'," Sgt Pitman said. "She indicated a rough area of the lake, which is a deep former clay pit – the water is quite murky.

"We visually scanned the lake for any obvious signs of the child, but there wasn’t any splashing. I looked at my

colleague and said, 'We're going to have to go in', because if there was a child in that lake, they were under the water.

"So we took off our body armour and boots and got in the water."

And so they plunged into the cold depths of the lake, thought to be at the Apex Leisure Park.

"My colleague is a much better cold water swimmer than I am, I'll give him that," Sgt Pitman went on. "The temperature got to me straight away. It was horrendous, really freezing cold.

"Other emergency services arrived on the scene with more specialised equipment to do an underwater search."

Then, after 19 minutes or so, the little girl said her story wasn’t true. There wasn’t a child in the water. The child – and their family – were spoken to by officers to

“educate to prevent a repeat occurrence”.

However, despite the call being a false alarm, the actions of the two officers involved have been recognised with Bravery Awards at the 2025 Avon & Somerset Police Federation Recognition Awards.

Sgt Pitman went on: "It's nice to be recognised. I'd like to think that any officer in that situation would have done the same thing, ultimately.

"As a father myself, it's a

parent's worst nightmare. If we hadn't gone into the water that day, we wouldn't have been doing our duty effectively."

Avon & Somerset Police Federation chair, Tom Gent, said: "With the cold temperature and wintry conditions that day, the officers felt like they had no choice but to enter the water immediately in order to save a life. That it turned out to be a hoax does not change the bravery and resilience the officers showed that day."

Sgt Joe Pitman and a colleague entered the freezing cold lake in Burnham to rescue a girl who reportedly fell in Pictures: Avon & Somerset Police Federation/Burnham & Highbridge Town Council

FROME has a new town councillor – Lyndsey Mayhew – who picked up the most votes in a poll on her birthday.

Lyndsey – who stood for Independents for Frome – is the new representative for the Market Ward on Frome Town Council (FTC) after a poll on Thursday (October 9).

She picked up a total of 360 votes, more than 190 ahead of Liberal Democrat, Damon John Hooton, who came second.

Reform UK candidate Timothy Simon George Stevens came in third (76 votes), followed by Conservative Claude Atkinson (42) and Neil Sheppard (15).

The poll came after the resignation of former councillor Mel Usher after 11 years, following a move out of the town centre.

Crash in Pilton

A PERSON was freed from a vehicle after a crash in Pilton.

Emergency services were sent to the scene at around 6.18am on October 8, including firefighters from Glastonbury and Shepton Mallet, as well as ambulance crews.

A Devon & Somerset Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson said the crash involved a single vehicle.

“Crews used Edraulic cutting equipment to release the casualty and VStrut stabilisation equipment was also used,” they added.

“Environmental pads were also used to stem fuel leaking from the vehicle.”

of September 27, police said

Milkshakes and money taken during 'opportunist' burglary

ELECTRICAL devices, cash and bottles of milkshake were stolen from a Yeovil café.

Police are appealing for information after burglars targeted The Crossing, in Preston Road, at around 3am on Saturday, September 27.

A resident called the police after hearing a disturbance and described seeing two men part ways when running from the scene, an Avon & Somerset Police spokesperson said.

“Both men were described as wearing dark clothing,” they went on. “One was believed to be wearing trainers with white soles, and the other was said to be wearing trainers with three

stripes on the side. No further descriptions of the men have been established at this time.

“Crime scene investigators have assessed the scene and CCTV, house-to-house enquiries and high visibility patrols have also been carried out while enquiries continue.

“We are now appealing for anybody who may have CCTV footage of the West Yeovil area, specifically properties on Larkhill Road and Preston Road, which may have captured the suspects in the moments leading up to or immediately after the burglary.”

PC Katarzyna Myk, officer in the case, added: “It is believed the suspects parted ways when

running from the location, so they may not have been seen or captured together by any CCTV or doorbell cameras.

“We believe this was an opportunity burglary rather part of a series or a targeted campaign, and we do not expect there to be any wider threat to the community.

“While we are treating this as a one-off incident, it is something we are taking seriously and are continuing with the investigation to identify those responsible.”

Anyone who saw the men, or has CCTV, doorbell, or dashcam footage from the time of the incident, should contact police on 101, reference 5225271378.

Pedestrian seriously injured in Bath crash

POLICE are appealing for information after a pedestrian suffered "potentially life-threatening" injuries after being hit by a motorcyclist in Bath.

The incident unfolded on the A36 Rossiter Road at just before 7.40pm on Saturday (October 11).

"The motorcyclist went on to collide with a grey Ford Transit Connect," an Avon & Somerset Police spokesperson said. "A pedestrian and the rider of the motorbike both went to hospital

where they remain. Their next of kin are aware.

"The pedestrian's injuries are currently described as potentially life-threatening.

"The motorcyclist remains in a serious condition. Thankfully, the Ford driver was uninjured."

The road was closed between Churchill Bridge and Pulteney Road for investigation and recovery.

Anyone who saw what happened should contact police on 101, reference 5225285860.

Burglars targeted The Crossing cafe, in Yeovil, in the early hours

The Bed Specialist – Vispring Craftsman Day

Friday 24th October

In the beginning, inspiration struck.

James Marshall, a British Engineer living in Canada wanted to develop a superior system of comfort and support for his wife during a period of illness. Most mattresses in an age of old-fashioned uncomfortable feather and horsehair padded systems with bouncy and unforgiving open coil link spring mattresses just didn’t provide the comfort needed. James soon developed what we now know as the modern pocket spring, an individual coil capped at each end, encased in its very own fabric pouch and tied together with others to create the most responsive surface for the unforgiving contours of the human body to lay on. The idea took off, others fell in love with the feel and products and in 1901 John Nolan and Frederick James introduced Marshalls innovation to the UK, founding the Marshall Sanitary Mattress Company in London, by 1911 Vispring was born, adopting the Roman numeral VI, a nod to the six springs sewn into each pocket.

VISPRING continue to only make pocket sprung beds, and today you can be confident that you are still buying the original and the best. Handmade products from the finest materials VISPRING offer in quality, luxury and style. VISPRING is widely regarded as the finest handmade mattresses and divans in the world. There is no compromise when it comes to quality and the entire range of pocket sprung handmade beds are made to order in Plymouth, Devon.

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Nick says “The exceptional strength of vanadium steel is used to craft each pocket spring making the core strength of each mattress robust and supremely responsive. We believe each mattress within the VISPRING collection is worth the investment, especially as we all deserve a great night’s rest without worrying if our mattress will live up to the average 8 hours use each night or 30,000 hours over 10 years and provide the prolonged comfort we all search for.”

FRIDAY 24 TH OCTOBER 2025 10 AM - 5 PM

This year The Bed Specialist is celebrating a huge milestone on the high street; their 60th Anniversary as a trusted family business. As a local independent bed and mattress specialist, much of what they offer is sourced from some of the best bed and mattress manufacturers in the UK, and they are thrilled to showcase the fantastic VISPRING brand throughout their showrooms in their Yeovil shop at 106 Huish, BA20 1AQ.

On Friday 24th October you can experience how these exceptional quality beds are made first hand between 10am and 5pm. We have talks and demonstrations by the craftsman, many of the beds available to try and purchase at further reduced prices only on the day with free luxury bedding gifts and other special offers.

Make sure you put this date in your diary and be sure to call in during the day to secure a special offer that will not be available at any other time – we can’t wait to greet you as we continue to celebrate our 60th Anniversary milestone.

Don’t’ forget, we offer free Nationwide delivery, and you can enjoy free old bed recycling on the day too worth £75.

Now is the time to invest in your sleep and enjoy some impressive savings on a new bed and mattress from The Bed Specialist at 106 Huish, Yeovil BA20 1AQ. Shop online or call us on 01935 423 596.

Jailed over stolen farm machinery

YEOVIL man Harry Hollowell has been ordered to hand over more than £300,000 after being convicted of handling stolen goods - in the form of stolen agricultural machinery.

The 27-year-old, of Jellicoe Road, Yeovil, appeared at Bristol Crown Court on Wednesday (October 8) for a Proceeds of Crime Act (POCA) hearing.

In December 2023, he appeared at the same court for sentencing after admitting conspiracy to handle stolen goods.

The charge came after a police raid in October 2020 at a farm in South Barrow, near Sparkford, which revealed 20 stolen machines, with further machines later recovered.

Hollowell had been purchasing farm machinery

stolen from burglaries in the Sedgemoor area of West Somerset throughout 2020.

The investigation also found he, with another defendant, had bought and sold stolen plant equipment taken from building sites in Cardiff in 2020.

Hollowell was sentenced to three years and two months in prison for the offences.

At the POCA hearing this week, the judge granted a confiscation order and Hollowell has been ordered to pay £309,116.38, of which £53,958.32 will be paid to seven victims who did not have their stolen equipment returned to them or other compensation. The remaining money will be invested back into the criminal justice system to continue to battle crime.

Ch Insp Joe Piscina, the rural crime lead at Avon & Somerset

Police, said: "The theft of plant and agricultural machinery and tools have a detrimental impact on the farming community, who already work tirelessly to provide for our communities.

"Hollowell’s actions cost the victims thousands of pounds in time and materials and it is brilliant that those victims will receive some compensation for their suffering.

"I would also like to praise the hard work of the original investigating officers who first brought Hollowell before the courts, and officers from our Financial Investigations Unit who worked on the POCA process."

Det Ch Insp Carlos Filippsen, from the Financial Investigations Unit, added: "Compensation for victims remains a focus for our financial investigations, reinforced by the desire to tackle crime at all levels.

"Criminals, especially those

who use the proceeds of their crimes to further commit offences, have a significant impact on our communities and we will continue to work hard to ensure individuals are not able to live off this money –such as by living in large houses, drive expensive cars, or enjoy a luxurious lifestyle at the cost of hard working members of the public.

"I would like to recognise the impact that these thefts have had on the victims and thank them for their strength and patience in supporting us with this process.

"While it will not fix what happened, I hope receiving this compensation will go some ways to helping them recover from what happened."

Carnival brings Wincanton streets to life!

THE streets of Wincanton were lit up by carnival on Friday (October 10).

Residents lined the streets for the procession, which saw dozens of carts, performers and more show off their creations for the 2025 season.

A spokesperson for the event thanked everyone who came out, and said the "efforts are very much appreciated" of all who volunteered and took part.

The results from Wincanton Carnival 2025 were:

Class 20 Majorettes: 1st Enigma, 2nd Ilchester Gems, 3rd Castle Cary Cygnets

Class 19 Trade: 1st Aaron Keirl, 2nd Hopkins Estate, 3rd Nine Springs Radio

Class 18 Vintage: 1st Aaron Keirl

Class 16 Anything Goes: 1st Jackson Gare, 2nd Storm George JCC, 3rd Storm George CC

Class 15 B Juvenile Masquerader (12-17): 1st Just Ed

Class 15 A Juvenile Masquerader (0-11): 1st Lily Langley, 2nd Beatrix Elson-Woodhouse

Class 14 Adult Masquerader: 1st Apollo CC, 2nd Roger Muspratt, 3rd ABC CC

Class 13 Juvenile Pair: 1st Cheeky Monkeys, 2nd Mini Star Delights, 3rd Jacob and Regan

Class 12 Adult Pair: 1st Krodie CC, 2nd Dee Gees CC

Class 11 Juvenile Group: 1st Ealson Juniors CC, 2nd Wincanton Primary School, 3rd Huntrix

Class 10 Adult Group: 1st Ealson CC, 2nd Wincanton Youth Football Club

Class 9B Small Trollies: 1st Pickles JCC, 2nd Frederick Churchill, 3rd Florence and Tuppence

Class 9A Large Trollies: 1st Higlets, 2nd Effie Bowring, 3rd AJ's JCC

Class 8 Juvenile Motorised Group: 1st Just Dance

Class 7 Adult Motorised Group: 1st BOOBs Breast Cancer, 2nd Got Your Six UK

Class 6 Non VSO: 1st Frome CC

Class 3 Comic: 1st Cary Comedians

Class 2 Feature: 1st Kipling CC, 2nd Hot Rock CC

Class 1 Tableau: 1st Magnum Special Awards

Best Dressed Driver: Magnum Spectator Choice: Our Lady's Primary School

Best Local: Just Dance

Best Masquerader Costume: Apollo CC

Best Cart Costume: Magnum

Best overall Costume: Apollo CC

Best overall Masquerader: Krodie CC

Best overall: Magnum

Pictures by Charles Gervais/ Both Hemispheres Photography

Quick news

Car torched in late-night attack

POLICE are appealing for information after a car was torched in a Somerset street.

The incident unfolded in The Oval, Bath, some time between 10pm and 10.30pm on Monday, October 6.

Officers said a window of a blue Vauxhall Corsa was said to have been forced open before an accelerant was believed to have been used to set fire to the vehicle.

“Substantial damage was caused to the vehicle and the fire is being treated as deliberate,” an Avon & Somerset Police spokesperson said. “Increased patrols and house-to-house and CCTV enquiries have been carried out, but we are appealing for witnesses and those with information to come forward.”

Anybody with CCTV or doorbell footage of the incident, or the moments leading up to it or immediately afterwards, should contact police on 101, quoting reference number 5225280733.

Exposure arrest

A MAN has been arrested in connection with reports of indecent exposure in Frome.

On Wednesday (October 9), police said a male remained in custody as an investigation into the incident continued.

“We understand that recent reports of indecent exposure have caused concern within the local community,” an Avon & Somerset Police spokesperson said.

“We want to reassure you that a male has now been arrested in connection with these incidents.”

Anyone with information relevant to the investigation should contact police on 101, quoting reference 5225282298.

3,000 Leonardo workers in Yeovil could go on strike

THOUSANDS of workers at the Leonardo site in Yeovil could go on strike after turning down the company’s latest pay offer.

Unite the Union said almost 3,000 members are demanding the aerospace and defence firm returns to negotiations after the company refused to improve its pay offer.

The union said staff voted “overwhelmingly” for strike action, which will take place later this autumn unless Leonardo meets their demands.

Leonardo said it ‘stood by’ an offer totalling some 9.2% over two years, it would “continue to engage in open dialogue with Unite to find a constructive path forward”.

Unite general secretary, Sharon Graham, pictured,said: “Our members are highly skilled and work on critical defence and aerospace systems yet are being short-changed by a company making billions.

“Leonardo needs to do the right thing, return to the negotiating table and make an improved offer our members can accept. Otherwise they will see their workers on the picket line and their factories shutdown.”

Workers at sites in Yeovil, Edinburgh, Newcastle, Luton and Basildon were balloted for industrial action after rejecting a pay offer of 3.2 per cent from the employer, which they branded a ‘real-terms pay cut’, with all four sites voting in favour of taking strike action.

Leonardo is a world-leading manufacturer of defence industry equipment including helicopters, aircraft, aerospace parts, electronics and cybersecurity.

Headquartered in Italy, it is one of the largest defence companies in the world, and a major employer in Somerset, with around 3,000 workers in Yeovil.

Unite regional officer, Carrie Binnie, said: “This strike is entirely the making of Leonardo and its refusal to improve its pay offer. And it can fix it with the stroke of a pen.

“Unite remains ready to return to negotiations but only if Leonardo management are

prepared to come up with an offer worth listening to.

“Our members will not accept a real-terms pay cut for their hard work and loyalty.”

The union said if Leonardo does not negotiate, it would serve notice for strike action to begin later this autumn.

A spokesperson for the firm said it was ‘continuing to engage’ with workers over a deal.

“Our focus remains on offering a fair and competitive package to our employees and the proposed pay deal has the potential to pay employees 9.2% over the course of the two year pay deal, representing a package of fixed and variable pay,” they added.

“We regularly benchmark our pay and benefits against industry standards to ensure they are appropriate.

“While we stand by the competitiveness of our current offer, we continue to engage in open dialogue with Unite to find a constructive path forward.”

Workers could walk out of Leonardo in Yeovil over pay, according to Unite general secretary Sharon Graham, below Pictures: Google/Scottish Government

Rape probe launched after Taunton attack

AMAN has been arrested after a woman was raped in a Taunton park.

The incident occurred in Victoria Park, Taunton, overnight between Friday and Saturday (October 10 and 11).

Police said the arrest came as enquiries continue into the incident.

"Officers launched an investigation after members of the public found the distressed woman at about 5am on Saturday," an Avon & Somerset Police spokesperson said.

"The woman has been offered specialist support."

They said a man was arrested at an address in the town at around 6.30pm on Sunday following a public appeal for information. He remains in police custody.

Detective Sergeant Wendy Fellowes said: “We’re very grateful to everyone who has contacted us with information

or shared the appeal. Although an arrest has now been made, our investigation is really just beginning.”

She added: “It’s important now that people don’t post

speculation online which could affect any future prosecution.”

The spokesperson added: "If you have information or footage which could help and have yet to speak with officers do please

contact us."

n Anyone with information that might help the investigation should contact police on 101, reference 5225285274, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Help is available for victims of rape or sexual assault, recent or non-recent. People can self-refer to The Bridge, a Sexual Assault Referral Centre available 24/7 365 days a year. Visit their website or call 0117 342 6999.

There are also details of charities and organisations with expertise in supporting victims at www.thisisnotanexcuse.org. If you feel unsafe in a public place you can report it via StreetSafe on the police uk website. The tool helps to inform our approach to protecting women and girls and allows police and partners to target particular areas of concern.

Police have made an arrest after an incident in Victoria Park, Taunton

M5 50mph speed limit and narrow lanes

WORK on a £5.9 million project to reduce flooding on the M5 in Somerset is set to begin next week - with 'narrow lanes' and a 50mph speed limit being installed on the motorway.

On October 20, National Highways will start work to improve drainage and alleviate flooding on the verges and carriageway near junction 26, for Wellington, with some overnight closures also planned.

The organisation said the work was aimed at 'reducing future wet weather-related incidents and closures'.

Ditches will be de-silted, gullies renewed, the motorway resurfaced and markings repainted, with pipes and fittings unblocked and camera and proofing work also carried out - but it will take until February next year.

Jonathan Hill, National Highways’ SW route manager, said: "This is an essential scheme which will bring two-fold benefits in terms of safety and wet weather resilience, reducing the likelihood of flooding and surface water issues at this location. As with all schemes, we’ve worked closely with

partners to find a suitable timeframe to deliver the project, we’re doing all we can to keep disruption to an absolute minimum and we thank all drivers in advance for their co-operation and patience while we carry out this essential work. The work has been programmed to follow Somerset Council’s concrete renewal scheme at the

junction and Chelston link road – the two schemes couldn’t be carried out at the same time as this would have significantly impacted people’s journey times during the busy summer months, both on the motorway and roads around the junction."

A 50mph speed limit will be in place northbound from October 28 until February 19, National Highways said, with a similar speed restriction in place on the southbound carriageway from November 2 until February 11 for safety reasons.

And overnight closures will be required to install the traffic management and signage, with diversions southbound from junction 25 to junction J27, via the A358 and A38 and the northbound in reverse. It comes after an overhaul of junction 26 and the Chelston link road was completed.

The work will cut the risk of flooding around junction 26 of the M5, at Wellington Picture: National Highways/Somerset Council

Trio helping keep the Strawberry Line straight as part of Somerset firm's scheme

EVERY Friday morning, whatever the weather, three friends can be found on Somerset's Strawberry Line clearing paths, litter picking and trimming hedges.

Gerald Dube, Nicholas Muridzi and Wisdom Logozo - all employees at Charlie Bigham’s Dulcote Quarry in Wells - have given the popular green way a new lease of life since they began working on the converted railway track a year ago.

The initiative is part of Charlie Bigham’s volunteering programme, which encourages staff to support local communities.

But for the three friends, it’s more than a volunteering project - it’s a way to give back, enjoy nature and build friendships.

"I thought it would be a good opportunity to get out there, meet new people and do something useful," said Gerald, 42, who moved to Somerset from Zimbabwe with his family.

"The company told us about the Strawberry Line needing maintenance – cutting bushes, keeping it clean – so I put my name down."

The trio work on the Strawberry Line for four hours every Friday, outside their normal shifts. Uniquely, the company still pays staff for their time – something Gerald calls "a real sign of appreciation".

The Strawberry Line runs for around 10 miles through the Mendips, from Yatton to Cheddar, via Shepton Mallet and Wells.

Volunteers like Gerald, Nicholas and Wisdom have been transforming the route into a path suitable for walkers and cyclists, with some of their colleagues even using the route to commute to work as part of a community-led charity initiative to ensure a traffic-free route that runs all the way through the Mendips from the sea.

Charlie Bigham’s volunteers are one of several groups of volunteers that make up the Strawberry Line Society to work in partnership with landowners and local councils to maintain the existing path and deliver new sections.

None of the trio knew each other before joining the Bigham’s team, but now they describe themselves as close friends.

"It’s all about fresh air and fun," said Wisdom, 31, who was born in Ghana but is now based in Somerset. "We work at our own pace. It’s physical exercise, but it’s good for the mind too. I also love the wildlife - the squirrels and rabbits just look at you, curious."

Nicholas, 49, originally from Zimbabwe but now a Somerset resident too, said: "It’s relaxing, it clears your head. You talk, you laugh. It’s not just work –it’s a social thing."

The brand’s founder, Charlie Bigham, said volunteering has become an integral part of how the business gives back to their community, saying they generate a “buzz” and an "uplifting sense of connection" within the business.

In 2024 employees across the business dedicated almost 4,500 hours to support their charity

partners.

Charlie added: "We’re incredibly proud of our team here at Charlie Bigham’s, and we never take for granted the privilege of engaging more than 700 colleagues to deliver our purpose: making delicious food and striving every day to do business in a better way.

"The ethos of the brand has not changed since I set it up almost 30 years ago: we value every person who looks after our food as it travels from our growers and producers, through our kitchens, and onto our customers’ plates.

"Fostering a strong sense of community at Charlie Bigham’s is at our core - both amongst those who enjoy our food, as well as everyone who works in the business. Our long term ambition is to forge a reputation as a ‘beacon business’, inspiring

other businesses to join us in having a positive impact on people’s lives and the planet."

Pamela Schmid, people director at Charlie Bigham’s, said: "At Bigham’s, we aim to do business in a better way. We are all about making delicious food, but also about building a business that people love to work in and contributing to a more sustainable world. We recognise the importance of building a team that supports everybody, including the community and world we live in.

"This approach touches everything we do - from the thoughtful sourcing of packaging and ingredients, the way that we interact as teams and individuals across Bigham’s, to volunteering and community outreach programmes that we sponsor."

The friends spend each Friday morning working on the Strawberry Line

From 'bloody' judges to heartbroken lovers - Somerset's haunted spots revealed

Huge

SOMERSET is teeming with haunted locations. From old farms to stately homes, we are never far from a friendly ghost or ghoul - if you believe in such things, of course.

Now, one noted Somerset spook is being featured in a special Halloween advent calendar, created by Paul Lee, a renowned spectre sleuth and documentarian of all things haunted.

The calendar, available online and social media, documents the most haunted hotels.

And his entry in the calendar for October 14 is set to feature The Grey Lady - an actress said to have taken her own life in the 1800s when her husband killed her secret lover.

In the ensuing two centuries, she is said to appear in the rooms and hallways at the Francis Hotel, in Bath.

"She wears the same grey feather

dress she wore on her last night on stage," Paul said. "Her perfume has also been smelt, lingering in the air.

"She may be the strange lady seen sitting on a bed; when staff check reception they find that the room is unoccupied and a return trip reveals the intruder has gone."

But according to legend, The Grey Lady is not alone at the Francis, Paul said.

"Another phantom is a lady in black who disappears after turning down a corridor," he went on.

"There are also the ghosts of a housekeeper of the building's designer, who took pity on her after she lost her fortune due to

gambling. She became depressed and hanged herself on the top floor. She usually manifests as poltergeist behaviour, and guests report a feeling of claustrophobia and pressure bearing down on them.

"Historical records do not reveal a maid who hanged herself, but two local men died in the hotel when it was bombed in the war (they may have been taking shelter in the basement)."

And there's more, said Paul, who has a PhD in nuclear physics, who added: "Reports also exist of people seeing and hearing doors moving by themselves, including the 100-year-old turnstile door, even though there was no wind.

"Management tell of a single loudspeaker in the bar piping music, even though everything was off and the room was empty.

"Child-like whispers and voices that accompany staff on their rounds - but stop when staff stop to listen, shadows that disappear down hallways, and an

employee who feels a 'reassuring' squeeze or an arm round her shoulder are some of the other incidents experienced here."

Paul has also compiled a map detailing haunted locations across the country, which can be found atpaullee.com/ghosts/ ghostgeo/index.php. Among those listed for Somerset are The Three Swans pub, in Frome, where a ghostly black dog is said to patrol the bar, while a former landlord of The Well Inn, in Cannard's Grave Road, near Shepton Mallet, is believed to prowl the premises.

In Taunton, Judge Jeffreysthe 'hanging judge' who oversaw the Bloody Assizes trials in the town - is said to roam the room he occupied at the Tudor Tavern, now Caffe Nero.

You can follow along with Paul's Halloween Advent Calendar on BlueSky at paullee. com/bsky.

n Do you know of any other haunted locations in Somerset? Drop us a line at newsdesk@ somersetleveller.co.uk.

Have you spotted the ghost of Judge Jeffreys at Caffe Nero in Taunton, or The Grey Lady at the Francis Hotel in Bath?

Pictures: Google

Wildlife tower plan for former dairy farm

PLANS for a six metre-tall wildlife tower on a former Somerset dairy farm have been approved.

The scheme would see the structure installed at Honeygar Farm, at Westhay, which is owned by the Somerset Wildlife Trust.

As part of wider plans to create a centre of excellence for scientific research and training at the site, SWT commissioned PlanningSphere to submit a planning application for the structure.

The tower is also part of “a wider vision to create an ecological network connecting Honeygar Farm to the wider countryside and other existing designated wildlife sites”.

Designed by architects Pearce+ and built using reclaimed materials, the nature tower would provide a habitat for birds, mammals and invertebrates.

The application outlined how the structure would be loosely divided into three zones.

It said: “Ground zone – The three legs rise the building out of the water zone and provide a wetland habitat around them through loose piles or rocks and boulders and within the mortar which will be purposely left

with recesses for invertebrates.

“Mid-zone – As the legs change from masonry to timber select timber boards are recessed or omitted to create niches and perching ledges characteristic of the elevational treatment. Behind and between the upper parts of the legs there is a sheltered area that buffers

wind and weather without complete enclosure. This area houses a number of Kent bat boxes.

“Upper zone – An enclosed upper chamber contains warm- and cold-roost bat boxes, plus nesting boxes for kestrel, barn owl and little owl. A fixed vertical ladder gives safe access for inspection and maintenance.”

The application went on:

“The tower’s footprint lies within a man-made depression – thought to be an old quarry or possible holding pond – on ground that is especially soft and waterlogged outside the summer months.

“Tree cover is sparse allowing strong prevailing winds which sweep across the open site.”

The plans were approved by Somerset Council and for more details, log on to somerset.gov. uk, reference 2025/1088/FUL.

How the new wildlife tower at Honeygar Farm could look Pictures: Pearce+/Somerset Council

Voices of veterans will feature during 2025 Somerset Festival of Remembrance

VETERANS' voices will play a key role in the upcoming Somerset Festival of Remembrance 2025.

Wells Cathedral is the venue for the special service, marking the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War.

Staged by the Somerset County Royal British Legion, organisers say it is likely to be one of the last occasions where veterans who took part in the war might attend.

Extracts from audio interviews conducted with some of those veterans will be played during the evening.

Honouring the courage, resilience and sacrifice of Somerset people at home and abroad, the service will take place on Saturday, November 1, from 7pm to 9.30pm.

As well as the recordings of veterans, the service will feature

performances by the Central Band of the Royal British Legion and the Yeovilton Military Wives Choir, as well as the parading of the Somerset Book of Honour, the Act of Remembrance (with a poppy drop) and a multi-themed programme, tracing Somerset’s wartime experiences, from mobilisation to liberty and

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Guildhall Young Artists Taunton is a vibrant, creative space, welcoming children and young people to learn and perform music and drama on Saturdays in term time.

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legacy. The evening will be compered by two former BBC correspondents and presenters, Ali Vowles and Clinton Rogers Commodore Robert Mansergh, Somerset County President of the Royal British Legion, said: "I really hope Somerset turns out in force to honour the service and sacrifice of the people of Somerset at one

of the most turbulent times in our history. And to be able to hear from veterans who were actually there will undoubtedly be very moving. It promises to be a wonderful night, with fitting entertainment from fabulous musicians."

Somerset’s Lord-Lieutenant Mohammed Saddiq, who will be guest of honour at the service, added: "We owe all these people an enormous debt of gratitude. We owe them the freedoms we enjoy today – and that is what this service is all about."

n Tickets for the event are available online at somersetfestival-of-remembrance-2025. eventbrite.co.uk.

Anyone who needs assistance buying tickets online can call the box office on 01749 832207, or email bookings@ wellscathedral.org.uk.

Meat and alcohol stolen from North Somerset supermarket

MEAT and alcohol were stolen from a Somerset supermarket – and police want to speak to this person.

The incident happened at a store in Stock Way, Nailsea, at around 2.15pm on Friday, September 19, with a “large quantity of meat and bottles of alcohol” stolen.

A CCTV image of a man – described as white, around 30-45 years old, of average height and build, who is bald, has a beard, and wearing a grey jumper, black jogging bottoms, and black shoes – has now been issued by officers in relation to the probe.

An Avon & Somerset Police spokesperson said CCTV enquiries have been carried out and anybody who recognises the man pictured should call 101, reference 5225264865, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Wells Cathedral will host the Somerset Festival of Remembrance

Pine martens finding their feet on Exmoor

PINE martens are back on Exmoor for the first time in a century as part of a landmark project to reintroduce the species.

A total of 19 of the animals – nine females and 10 males – have been freed on Exmoor National Park.

Once common on Exmoor but lost to hunting and habitat loss, the pine martens – small, cat-sized animals from the weasel family – were released last month at secret locations owned by the National Trust and Forestry England as part of a project the Two Moors Pine Marten Project and supported by The National Lottery Heritage Fund.

The project is led by the charity Devon Wildlife Trust and is a partnership between seven organisations: Dartmoor National Park Authority, Devon Wildlife Trust, Exmoor National Park Authority, Forestry England, National Trust, Somerset Wildlife Trust and Woodland Trust. Expert assistance has been provided by the Vincent Wildlife Trust.

The pine martens were sourced from healthy wild populations in the north

west of Scotland and the reintroduction marks the culmination of three years of planning by the Two Moors Pine Marten Project working with volunteers, stakeholders and communities.

On arrival in Exmoor the pine martens were housed separately in specially constructed release pens, each containing a snug den box.

There they were allowed to acclimatise quietly to their new surroundings while being provided with fresh food and water.

After 72 hours, the door to each pen was opened and the pine martens were able to slip into their new wild surroundings.

Each has been fitted with a radio collar allowing project staff to follow their fortunes in coming months. The lightweight handmade leather collars are designed to drop off the animals after six to nine months.

The Exmoor initiative comes after 15 animals were released by the Two Moors Pine Marten Project on Dartmoor in autumn 2024.

The Dartmoor population has become established with the first births of kits being recorded in July 2025.

Similar successful releases have also taken place in recent years in the Forest of Dean, Wales and Cumbria.

Pine martens have a varied diet and at this time of year will consume wild fruits, along with hunting for prey which includes small mammals such as voles, mice and grey squirrels.

Devon Wildlife Trust’s Tracey Hamston, who leads the Two Moors Pine Marten Project, said: “It’s

wonderful to see pine martens living wild in Exmoor again. These animals were once a key part of our thriving woodland wildlife, so it’s good that they are back where they belong.

“It’s a positive sign that nature can be restored. Our woodlands and their wildlife will benefit from their presence.”

Lucy Bennett, pine marten engagement officer at Somerset Wildlife Trust, said: “We’re proud and delighted to see pine martens returning to Somerset and to have played a part in the national recovery strategy as this animal re-establishes its former range.

“At a time when wildlife needs us more than ever and action is much needed, it’s fantastic to see recovery milestones met, like the return of this important mammal in functioning British woodlands.

“We look forward to monitoring the progression of the Exmoor animals, supporting woodland wildlife and local communities as the pine martens move and expand their range.”

n To find out more about pine martens and the Two Moors Pine Marten Project, visit www. twomoorspinemartens.org.

Pine martens, below, have been reintroduced to Exmoor, above

Pictures: Two Moors Pine Marten Project/Terry Whittaker/2020Vision

How elephants helped create amazing pumpkin mosaic

AROUND 11,000 pumpkins and gourds were used to create a memorable mosaic at a Somerset attraction.

Noah's Ark Zoo Farm, at Wraxall, has unveiled the 2026 installation - a giant elephant creation - made using homegrown squashes.

The artistic tradition came about six years ago, when pumpkins were found unexpectedly growing on the elephant muck heap - from the park's bachelor group of African elephants.

From those first surprise sprouts, a dedicated pumpkin patch was created, using elephant poo as a unique fertiliser.

Larry Bush, director at Noah's Ark Zoo Farm, said: "Once we saw pumpkins thriving on the muck heap, we realised we were on to something special.

"Now, it’s grown into an annual highlight for both our team and our visitors.

"Despite the dry summer this year, our elephants’ natural fertiliser has helped us achieve

our best harvest yet – from fiery red Fireballs to knobbly Warty Goblins and classic Jack-o’Lanterns.

"With over 15,000 grown this year, there really is a pumpkin for everyone."

During a recent team building day, the park's corporate partners, Albert Goodman, were involved in creating the jumbo elephant pumpkin mosaic, which illustrates the ‘poo-topumpkin’ story.

The impressive creation took shape right beside the elephant habitat – the largest in Northern Europe and spanning more than 20 acres – with the elephants looking on as the design took shape.

The colossal artwork shone a spotlight on the elephants’ unusual role in pumpkin growing, using more than 30 pumpkin and gourd varieties, with 11,000 pumpkins used in total.

It has now been disassembled, with the

pumpkins taking place on shelves at the farm shop.

Tom Stone, partner in the Farms & Estates team at Albert Goodman, said: "Our team building day at Noah’s Ark was a brilliant way to bring everyone together.

"The pumpkin mosaic was a unique and a really memorable activity for our team to take part in."

Until November 2, visitors to the park can enjoy the Noah’s Ark Farm Shop Pumpkinfest, when they are invited to pick the perfect pumpkin from a family-friendly, wheelchairaccessible patch as they browse the autumnal display.

The park is also running a 'Poo Done it- Dung Detectives' trail for visitors to uncover a whole host of fun dung facts.

The stunning squash-based creation celebrated the elephants' role in the growing process

Picture: Noah's Ark Zoo Farm

Are Peter Andre's in-laws moving house?

COULD this mysterious house – on the market for more than £2 million – be a sign Peter Andre’s in-laws are moving?

The house, at Broomfield, between Taunton and Bridgwater, is listed for sale with an asking price of some £2.25 million, being marketed by Strutt & Parker.

The pop star’s doctor wife, Emily, comes from a family of medics based in the county – and it is understood they have put their six-bedroom, four-bathroom Somerset home on the market.

windows welcoming plenty of natural light, handsome original fireplaces and elegant cornicing and ceiling roses throughout,” the listing said.

As well as almost 6,000 of accommodation, the property comes with a tree-lined driveway approach, patio area, tennis court and a kitchen garden complete with raised beds.

“Beyond the garden, the wider gounrds also include areas of meadow and shaded woodland, as well as a peaceful pond, providing a haven for wildlife,” the listing added.

In Broomfield, the house sits in more than nine acres, and is described as a “handsome period house” arranged over “three light-filled floors”.

“The property offers six bedrooms and six flexible, airy reception rooms, with tall sash

Andre, inset, famed for hits such as Mysterious Girl and Insania, fell for doc Emily –whose father is a surgeon – in 2012. They have gone on to marry and welcome three children, with Andre also father to two children from previous relationships.

News analysis

“PEOPLE may not realise it, but their bills would be higher today without the increasing role that wind and solar farms running on free sunshine and wind are playing by reducing our dependence on gas power.”

A while back, I wrote about climate change – a topic I am hugely interested in, but reluctant to put pen to paper about.

Why? Because, if I’m honest, the response to such stories is 90% people shouting at me –and no one likes to be shouted at, do they?

I’m not one to shy away from presenting facts, regardless of the reaction, but most people –instinctively – want to dislike climate change. I presume because it might mean they have to consider their own impact on the planet they, their children and grandchildren, live on – and we fear change. Of course we do, that’s perfectly natural.

So I tend to avoid it.

However…

How renewables are saving you money - whether you like it or not...

I recently came across an update on something we discussed in that previous piece – which you can read at somersetleveller.co.uk (or in edition 172 of your Leveller.

In that piece, I explained how, far from being the cause of higher energy bills, renewable energy was actually the only real way of bringing down household costs – despite what numerous national newspapers, campaign groups and politicians want you to believe.

Part of the reason fossil fuels drive up bills is that they are the most expensive to produce. As I explained then, the energy ‘wholesale’ market is governed by something called the marginal cost pricing system.

It basically means that when our suppliers by the energy they need to sell to us, the price they pay for

it (and pass on to us through our bills) is set by the most expensive unit of energy sold on the wholesale market.

The most expensive is gas, a fossil fuel. So, we pay that amount.

So, in reality, the cost of your

energy has absolutely nothing to do with renewable energy – it is dictated by the cost of hugely expensive fossil fuels.

That said, if we had more renewable energy, we would pay less, because it is cheaper (so the marginal cost pricing system would be set lower).

As we said back in January: “If we produced more electricity using renewables, we could meet the demand at the lower price – bringing our bills down.”

This is absolutely true. And new analysis proves it. (I’m not one to say I told you so, but I told you so.)

Renewable energy is saving you money –whether you like it or not.

The Energy and Climate Intelligence Unit (ECIU) has quantified savings being made on electricity on the dayahead wholesale markets (governed by, you

Wind and solar farms are beginning to crowd out more expensive gas from the energy market, and below, the cover of the February Leveller

Picture: Ed White/Pixabay

guessed it, the marginal cost pricing system).

The ECIU found windgenerated electricity is now at such a level that sometimes, just sometimes (around 15% of the time in 2024), our energy needs are totally met by renewables.

When this happens, it means energy suppliers are not paying as much for energy through the marginal cost pricing system – because gas has been pushed out. Hurrah!

And the ECIU found it did indeed result in lower day-ahead wholesale prices, so much so that the amount it saved could “roughly equal the support that wind farms receive from bills”.

So, even though this isn’t happening all the time – yet – it looks to be paying for itself already, covering those ‘green energy subsidies’ you hear populists moaning about a lot.

As with electric cars, the environmental and financial subsidies are more-than paid back in the long term.

And just as an aside –because lots of people don’t want to face up to this – the emergence of wind power is also doing a lot that could help preserve our planet for the grandkids.

It is, genuinely, a win-win situation. Lower bills, healthier planet.

Here’s the situation…

Previously, the ECIU found that gas set the price of electricity almost 100% of the time (through the marginal cost pricing system). But this now appears to be changing – falling to around 85% of the time.

So, our energy is cheaper 15% of the time. It’s a start. And it made a lot of difference.

The analysis found wind power reduced the wholesale price of electricity by up to a quarter (25%) in 2024, equivalent to around £25/MWh, through what they called a ‘hidden saving’ – the impact of the marginal cost pricing system being lower.

Dr Simon Cran-McGreehin, head of analysis at the ECIU, said: “Energy experts have long known that the invisible hand of

the market would see renewables with no fuel costs reduce the overall cost of electricity by pushing gas power out of the market, and this was starkly highlighted in the gas crisis.

“People may not realise it, but their bills would be higher today without the increasing role that wind and solar farms running on free sunshine and wind are playing by reducing our dependence on gas power.

“This also means things could have been even worse during the peaks of the gas crisis, had it not been for renewables – indeed, anything that avoids gas generation helps to limit prices, including interconnectors and our old nuclear power plants.

“Prices can spike when wind is low and gas power plants come on, but this is more than made up for by the overall savings on prices that wind farms deliver the rest of the time.

“Years of underinvestment in our grid means significant upgrades are now needed as demand for electricity increases,

but this will deliver more British renewables and so reduce household vulnerability to gas markets whose price is set internationally.”

Here are the conclusions of the analysis:

The estimated saving on wholesale prices due to largescale wind farms amounts to about £24–25/MWh

Without the reduction due to wind power, the average day-ahead price of £73–76/ MWh in 2024 could have been as high as £96–101/MWh

Links between day-ahead markets and longer-term trades, where the rest of supply is traded, mean savings of a similar size are likely to be seen for all supplies

The savings translate into about £27–28/MWh in retail prices. If there are similar cuts in prices across all trades, then the savings on bills due to all wind power could roughly match the £27/MWh of support paid on bills to support wind farms via the RO and CfDs

So, renewables are now already suppressing the wholesale price of electricity –

keeping it as low as possible.

Adam Bell, director of policy at Stonehaven, said: “This is immensely valuable work that showcases the extent to which we’d all be paying more if we hadn’t built out our wind fleet over the last 20 years.

“Pushing older inefficient gas plants out of the market is how wind holds down costs.”

And the good news is, this can get better. Your bills can get cheaper – if we develop more renewable energy.

So, the next time you bemoan renewables, or shout at me about some made-up ‘climate scam’ etc, remember – the fact is that they have saved you money, whether you like it or not.

I hate to say it, but we told you so.

PAUL JONES Editor in Chief

Dr Simon Cran-McGreehin, head of analysis at the ECIU, inset, said renewables had kept energy costs down Pictures: ECIU/ Sebastian Ganso/Pixabay

Wild ponies and wildflowers go hi-tech!

AHI-tech Somerset firm has gone old school to help protect a county tradition.

Singer Instruments, which creates robotics to assist biological research, has joined a project to create wildflower meadows on Exmoor – and boost the area’s wild pony population.

Exmoor ponies are helping the firm create the meadow at its Roadwater headquarters as part of the Sowing the Seeds initiative.

Singer is one of more than 50 sites taking part in the scheme, which aims to create more wildflower meadows across Exmoor National Park.

Lucy Cornish, Sowing the Seeds project officer, said: “Wildflower meadows are habitats rich in wildlife. They are grasslands that were traditionally managed for hay so left to grow and flower over the spring and summer, feeding and sheltering a wide array of wildlife, but most of these habitats have been lost in the landscape.

“Since 2021, Exmoor National Park Authority has been running a project called Sowing the Seeds, working with landowners, farmers, community groups, schools, and parish councils, to create, restore, and promote wildflower

Pictures: Sowing the Seeds/ Singer Instruments

meadows and habitats across the National Park.

“We are working with communities to restore this rare habitat and make more wildflower areas that will in time join up to create a thriving nature network, where wildlife can flourish.”

Singer Instruments said its work with companies harnessing nature to find or engineer new microbial organisms to tackle some of humanity’s greatest challenges, was the perfect compliment to

Sowing the Seeds. CEO of the firm, Harry Singer, said: “Humanity needs biology now, more than ever! We’re super proud to be making a global impact in this regard, as well as a local impact by creating our own wildflower meadow. Thanks very much to Exmoor National Park Authority for driving this initiative.”

A successful grant application to the Farming in Protected Landscapes Fund in 2023 funded the re-fencing of

the field before Exmoor Ponies were introduced.

Pony owners, Lloyd and Gemma Parry, said: “Exmoor Ponies are mentioned in the Doomsday Book and are renowned worldwide for their hardiness and skilled conservation grazing.

“The current three; Ambrose, Megs Mary, and Hazel, were born on Dunkery in the Tawbitts herd, bred by the late Jackie Ablett and Gill Langdon.

“The ponies keep the grass in check, eat through brambles and scrub, provide fertilizer for the seeds, and get a workout in the steep field in the process.”

Wildflower seeds harvested from donor sites were sown by staff once the ponies had grazed the meadow in the first year, with top-up seeds also being sown in the second year.

Health, safety and environment manager for Singer Instruments, Sally Parish, added: “The meadow is now in year three of a five year management plan and already there has been an improvement in the variety and cover of flora.

“More Exmoor Pony visits will be required in the years to come which we look forward to as they give us a warm welcome in the mornings, hanging their heads over the gate to see what’s going on.”

Police reassure residents after reports of person in street with a weapon

POLICE have reassured residents on a Weston-Super-Mare estate after rumours of a person walking the streets with “a bladed weapon”.

The incident unfolded on Tuesday, October 7, after reports of a potentially dangerous person on the Mead Vale estate.

However, police have found no evidence of a person being in possession of a weapon in the area, and have moved to quell “some concern, and some speculation”.

“A large number of enquiries took place on the day following a call from the member of the public to say they believed they had seen someone with a bladed weapon in the area,” an Avon & Somerset

Police spokesperson said.

“Officers on the ground, supported by the police helicopter, extensively searched the area and could find no trace of anyone with a weapon.

“Nobody else called to report seeing someone with a weapon, which given the time of day and location, we would have expected had that have been the case.”

They said further enquiries and patrols have since taken place, including an “in-depth CCTV trawl”.

“We’ve reviewed all that CCTV footage and it does not show anyone in that area carrying a weapon,” they went on.

“We have no doubt that the person who

called us did so with good intent and would please ask people do not criticise them for their actions. They did the right thing.

“If they thought there was even a small chance someone was walking around with a weapon, then we’d rather know and take all the precautions necessary to keep the public safe.

“Neighbourhood officers have been carrying out high-visibility patrols since Tuesday and will continue to be available to talk to over the coming days, but we hope this update provides reassurance that there is not considered to be any wider risk to anyone’s safety.”

To report crime, call 101.

Exmoor ponies are helping create wildflower meadows on Exmoor, including at Singer Instruments, main picture

Office destroyed after fence fire

AN office block and workshop near Castle Cary were “totally destroyed” by fire on Friday night (October 10) after a fence blaze spread.

The blaze, in a commercial yard, was reported at 7.37pm, with a total of six fire engines sent to the scene, along with a water bowser, aerial platform, command support unit and specialist officers.

Stations attending were Street, Yeovil, Castle Cary, Martock, Shepton Mallet, Somerton, Wells and Wincanton.

A Devon & Somerset Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson said: “Fire control received 999 calls reporting some fences on fire in a commercial yard, near Castle Cary.

“One fire engine was originally sent, however subsequent calls indicated this fire was spreading, so a further fire engine and water bowser was sent to assist.”

More crews and equipment followed, they said, and added: “Crews have since confirmed this fire now involves a wooden office block and workshop well alight.”

At around 11.45pm, the spokesperson said the blaze had been extinguished.

“The building was totally destroyed by the fire and the cause was accidental,” they added.

Quick news

A CAR was "totally destroyed" by fire in a layby near Yeovil last night.

Firefighters from Yeovil were sent to the scene, on the A37 at Chilthorne Domer, at just after 11.50pm on October 9.

"On arrival, crews confirmed this car was in a layby and well alight," a Devon & Somerset Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson said.

Crews extinguished the fire using breathing apparatus, a hose reel jet and a thermal image camera.

"The vehicle was totally destroyed by the fire and the cause was accidental," the spokesperson added.

Crews tackled the blaze near Castle Cary on Friday night Picture: Somerton Fire Station

'I'm proud of the country I call home'

WHEN my family moved to the UK I was just a year old, a baby brought here by parents searching for opportunity.

They came for what Britain stood for: good education for their children, the chance to work hard, to own a home, and to build a better future. And they did exactly that.

With hard work they bought their council flat, thanks to Margaret Thatcher.

In time they opened a small café and turned it into a restaurant.

Years later my siblings and I followed in their footsteps, opening our own restaurants.

To me and to many families like mine, Britain is a country that welcomes aspiration, rewards hard work, values family and looks confidently to the future. It is a fair and tolerant country.

It’s in Somerset that I was able to buy my first home and open my business, and I’m proud of that.

I’m proud of the opportunities this country can provide, and proud of what we are all able to achieve here.

It’s also the simpler things

that make Britain special - down the pub after a hard day at work, fish and chips on a Friday night, watching Britain’s Got Talent on a Saturday with a curry, and sitting down for a roast dinner with family on a Sunday.

We all value and have pride in Britain for different reasons - this is my pride in Britain.

I wasn’t born British, I was born Portuguese. I became British through choice and through pride. I earned that right, and I’m proud to hold dual nationality

I stand proudly with both the Union Jack and the Somerset flag behind me, proud of the country that gave my family opportunity and proud of the county I call home.

DIOGO RODRIGUES

Conservative Leader of the Opposition on Somerset Council Somerset Councillor for Bridgwater East & Bawdriport.

Flag issue overblown

IT was great to see so many Somerset places up for awards in your latest issue (Somerset Leveller 184).

Since moving here 10 years ago, we've been surprised to

FACT OF THE WEEK...

WORDS are a fascinating thing (I suppose we would say that!) - and the English language perhaps the most intriguing.

Some experts estimate English features around 500,000 words, a lot when compared to estimates for the likes of French (under 100,000) and German (135,000).

However, in some ways, there are very few... For example, can you name the two longest, one-syllable words in the English language?

READER PICTURE

find so many things to visit that we had never heard about before!

We all know about the Tor etcetera, but who outside of the county has heard of Burrow Mump, or the amazing farm parks and National Trust venues here? Not many, it seems, if our friends from further afield are anything to go by!

Come on Somerset, shout about yourself more!

IRENE Somerton

Thanks for carnival!

IT has been wonderful to see carnivals back on the streets of Somerset in recent weeks. We look forward to it every year and the carts and costumes never cease to amaze!

The colour this year has been brilliant and I thought I would put pen to paper to say well done to everyone involved in putting these things together.

JUNE THOMAS via email

Before those with an accent from neighbouring Dorset scream 'squirreled' (yes, seriously), that doesn't count, as squirrel is, officially, a two-syllable word!

It is a bit of a trick question, as one of the words is not widely used nowadays. The two words are 'scraunched' and 'strengthed'.

Scraunched means crunched, or squashed up, as in, 'they scraunched their stress ball'.

Strengthed on the other hand, is defined as the past participle of strength. However, it is not widely used in modern language, so you may well be forgiven for only getting one answer! Next up, in another challenge of your dictionary diet, see if you can recite the four (maybe five) words in the English language that start with 'dw'... We'll discuss the answer in the next Leveller!

A classic 80s children's show was recreated in Somerset thanks to this picture by reader Chris Millin of pigeons in Street! You can send your pictures to newsdesk@somersetleveller.co.uk, or message us on Facebook @somersetleveller

Young people urged to get creative to follow Gritty Gritty Bang Bang gritter name!

FOLLOWING on from Gritty Gritty Bang Bang and Spready Mercury –young people are once again being asked to name new Somerset gritters.

Two new vehicles are joining the Kier fleet in the county, and need names as the firm gears up for the cold winter months.

Last year, Brymore Academy (Gritty Gritty Bang Bang) and West Pennard Primary School (Spready Mercury) named the vehicles.

And now, schools have until November 7 to put their suggestions forward, when they will be judged by Somerset Council and Kier, with a shortlist then going for public vote.

Councillor Richard Wilkins, Somerset Council lead member for transport and digital, said: “Last year’s entries were brilliant with some inventive pun-tastic ideas.

“It’s a great way for local children to get involved in naming the road gritters and learn more about road safety in the winter.

"I can’t wait to see the

creative names the children come up with and see some new gritters on the road this winter.”

Tom Stockley, operations manager with Kier Transportation, added: “We’re looking forward to running this competition again this year. It’s great for the pupils to get

involved, and understand more about our challenges during the winter months.

“Gritting is important as it helps keep roads safe and reduces weather-related disruptions, whether you’re heading to school, work, or appointments.

“Road gritting involves spreading rock salt on roads to prevent ice and snow build-up, giving car tyres better grip. With temperatures falling, gritting teams will soon be undergoing trial runs – and will grit the roads when the weather is set to fall below 0.5 degrees.”

SEND school in Street plans to expand into new building

A SOMERSET school for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) has applied for permission to expand.

The Inaura School wants to change the use of 12A Leigh Road, in Street, from an office to a school.

Currently, the school occupies 12 Leigh Road, and now wants to use 12A to accommodate up to four extra pupils and staff.

“The school currently occupies four sites, including 12 Leigh Road,” the application said. “Teaching is mainly on a one-to-one bases (one teacher to one student) and is not solely

dependent on the use of a single school building, as required by typical mainstream schools, nor does it require many of the usual facilities found in mainstream schools.

“For example, it does not have assembly, does not have formal games, and students are not brought to school by parents.”

No physical changes to the site are proposed, the application said, with the building originally built in 1925 as Strode School, by Clarks.

“The availability of 12A means that it (the school) will have extra rooms and classrooms adjoining its existing premises and thus will have control over the whole site, including the car park,” the application said.

“The school considers the Leigh Road building and location to be ideal to meet its students’ needs.”

A five-space car park to the rear of 12A will be utilised by staff, in addition to 10 marked

spaces already in use, with access from Vestry Road, off Leigh Road.

Inaura School is an independent, co-educational SEND school, catering for young people with complex educational, social, emotional and mental health needs, the application details, with all pupils referred by Somerset Council, as well as the Bath and North East Somerset, North Somerset and Gloucester authorities.

n For more details on the scheme, log on to somerset.gov. uk and search application reference 2025/1589/FUL.

Spready Mercury during a visit to West Pennard CofE Primary School

Picture: Somerset Council

The school wants to expand into 12A Leigh Road Picture: Google

The allure of auctions...

Auctions are becoming an increasingly popular way to buy and sell land and property. Whether it’s a farm, a residential home, or a commercial warehouse, auctions offer a real alternative to your traditional private sale.

There are clear advantages for both buyers and sellers, but there are certainly some pitfalls to watch out for.

Why auction?

There is potential for numerous interested parties to compete against each other, increasing the final purchase price for the seller. The process is fast paced, often being preferred by landowners who just want to get the sale done.

The auction hearing ends when the hammer falls. The striking sound of the gavel against the wooden block indicates an agreement to sell and buy a particular plot of land or property. There is no backing out after this point, which may provide certainty to the parties involved.

Why buy at auction?

Taking advantage of under market value properties, the savvy purchaser may grow their portfolio, or the local equestrian may find a new home for their beloved horses.

LEGALLY SPEAKING

by MATT PARKHOUSE Pardoes Solicitors

Auctions are open to everyone, and everyone has a chance to compete.

It’s not all sunshine and rainbows

Given the speedy nature, it is not surprising to hear there are some pitfalls that may catch you out.

Bidding without investigating is akin to a cardinal sin for us property lawyers. Unlike traditional private sales, there may not simply be enough time to review all the documentation in the legal pack to truly understand whether you can use the land for your intended use.

A planning restriction or right of way issue may be hiding in the depths of the legal pack so it is imperative to contact your lawyer early in the process. What would be worse than buying your dream home but not realising you have no legal way to access it?

Another issue to consider is any premiums or hidden costs. It’s all well and good securing a solid deal on a piece of land, but you should be aware of any auctioneer or buyers’ premiums lurking in

the Special Conditions.

All in all

On the face of it, auctions can provide an alternative to a traditional conveyancing transaction, whether you are an executor trying to sell your loved-one’s property, or whether you are a local farmer wanting to add to your farm. But you should be aware of the potential pitfalls.

If you need help with a proposed auction matter, let’s have a chat. I am in the Commercial Property Team, if you would like any advice on a property matter please do not hesitate to contact me (or our Residential Property Team) in our Bridgwater office on 01278 457891, or by emailing enquiries@pardoes.co.uk.

Pardoes Solicitors would be delighted to assist you, your family and your business.

EV giant unveils Taunton 'experience' plan

ELECTRIC car giant BYD is set to open an 'experience centre' in Taunton town centre.

The firm, which produces EV models such as the Dolphin and Sealion 7, is taking up residence at an Experience Centre at the Orchard Centre - with an opening date to be announced soon.

A spokesperson said the move comes after recent product placement events at the shopping centre, and would act as an extension of the company's showroom, on the Toneway, which opened a year ago.

"Following the great success of our various product placement weekends at the Orchard Shopping Centre, it was clear that the natural progression of this success was

to enable a more permanent position there," a spokesperson said.

"This will facilitate enhanced accessibility to the brand, as well as extending our expertise and dedicated customer service to a wider range of people."

They said the outlet would showcase the brand's latest

models, as well as giving customers the chance to test drive models via pre-arranged appointment.

City West Country sales director, Luke Yetman, said: "We are thrilled to expand our representation in the Taunton town centre. From late October we will be able to offer

The BYD Sealion 7 will be among models on offer at the new Orchard Centre venue

customers the opportunity to see our fantastic BYD products in the Orchard Shopping Centre as well visiting our site in Toneway for a demonstration drive. I look forward to opening the doors and welcoming Taunton shoppers into our new store to experience our BYD range."

Estate agent wins gold for excellent service

STAFF at the GTH office in Minehead have been sporting winning smiles after scooping a top ranking at a national awards.

The West Somerset branch of the estate agency has been named a gold winner in the British Property Awards.

The national awards provide agents across the UK with “an invaluable opportunity to compare the service that they provide against their local, regional and national competition”, focussing on customer service and GTH at The Parade was judged the best in town.

Robert McLean, from The British Property Awards, said: “Our awards have been designed to remove any opportunity for bias or manipulation.

“If an agent has been attributed with one of our awards, it is simply down to the fantastic customer service levels that they have demonstrated across a

prolonged period of time.

“Winning agents should be proud that their customer service levels provide a benchmark for their local, regional and national competition.”

The awards echo happy responses from reviews on Google.

A recent one read: “From the moment I first entered the GTH office in Minehead, I knew I was onto a winner. To find out that that office had an all-female staff was particularly encouraging. The manager was extremely efficient and friendly, and the two negotiators I met thereafter did their jobs well, also the administrator on the team was courteous and helpful.”

Another said: “Pleasant helpful people who answered all our questions quickly and calmly.”

n To get in touch with the Minehead GTH branch, call 01643 706666.

The GTH team in Minehead toasting their success at the British Property Awards Picture: GTH

Future of motoring explored at new museum exhibition

ANEW exhibition awaits visitors to the Haynes Motor Museum during the October half term.

Alongside the museum’s collection of more than 300 cars and motorcycles, a Big Bug Hunt family trail is running, where microscopic monsters are invading the attraction, at Sparkford, near Yeovil, and need intrepid bug hunters to track them down.

Seek out the creepy crawlies threatening to eat their way through leather, wood and fabric, and discover how the museum stops them from

gnawing through the historic car collection.

Writer set for Taunton

BESTSELLING Somerset author Kate Lord Brown will be discussing her latest novel in Taunton this week.

On Thursday (October 16), the writer, inset, will be at Brendan Books to talk about The Golden Hour - a tale of family secrets and archaeological intrigue.

The novel combines tales of 1930s Cairo and 1970s Beirut, interweaving glory-seeking desert archaeologists, priceless treasures, Nefertiti’s tomb and more.

"Lucie travels home to be with her dying mother and discovers the truth about her family, Juno's work and their shared search for the greatest undiscovered tomb of allNefertiti's.

"From the cities to the deserts, this transporting and moving story of a lost generation transformed by war is a study of great love and sacrifice in all its forms."

The outline said: "Archaeologist Lucie Fitzgerald's mother is dying –she's also been lying.

"As her home, the 'Paris of the East', Beirut, teeters on the brink of war in the 70s, Polly Fitzgerald has one last story to tell from her deathbed - the story of her childhood best friend Juno and their life in 30s Cairo.

Kate, who hails from the south west, will be at the Bath Place bookshop from 6.30pm on Thursday.

"I'm really delighted to be coming back to Brendon Books. Taunton is lucky to have such a vibrant independent bookstore and I'm thrilled to be talking about the new paperback with them," said the author, a finalist in ITV's The People's Author contest. Tickets, costing £8, are available via brendonbooks.org.

Meanwhile, half term also marks the launch of Transitions, a brand-new interactive exhibition exploring the future of motoring.

From electric vehicles that can drive themselves to hydrogen-powered engines, visitors can discover the innovations shaping a more sustainable tomorrow.

Favourites including the

motoring-themed outdoor play area and the Little Tikes cars will also be open through the holidays, as well as the museum eatery, Café 750.

n Haynes Motor Museum is open from 10am daily.

For more information, and to book a visit, call 01963 440804, or visit www.haynesmuseum. org.

Ideal time to get out and meet new people

NOW is an ideal time as we go into Autumn to still get outdoors as the weather allows to get out to meet new people, make new friends and maybe that someone special.

It’s a relaxed way to meet people and broaden your social circle!

Just Introductions is an Introduction Agency for single people; we offer one to one introductions and social events throughout the group.

We cover all ages 25 + younger members are very welcome.

We offer a confidential, personal and professional service.

We are part of the JIG group, also in Dorset, Wiltshire, Hampshire and Devon, plus you can meet members across the group. All members are interviewed in their own home and ID checked.

For more info and testimonials of our successes, please look at the website and give us a call!

What’s stopping you? What price happiness?

Head over to our website for more details.

We look forward to hearing from you!

Youngsters can take part in the Big Bug Hunt at Haynes Motor Museum

Farm shop to hold special re-opening event

Little Clayhill Farm will hold an open day and re-opening this month

ADAY of “food, fun and Somerset flavour” is promised when a new-look farm shop welcomes visitors at a grand re-opening later this month.

On October 25, the farm shop at Little Clayhill Farm, in Cannington, will reveal a new, larger premises – and is keen to greet shoppers from across the area.

“After years of welcoming customers to our small farm shop, we’re delighted to announce its grand re-opening in a bigger space on October 25,” a spokesperson said.

“To celebrate, we’re hosting

14th SEPTEMBER2.30-4.30pm, PAGEANT GARDENS,Sherborne. Sherborne Town Band are playing the last event of the summer program. All our favourite pieces from over the summer with a 'last night of the proms' finish. It's free ( but we love donations), keep an eye on social media for any wet weather alternatives.

The Templecombe Scout Group will be providing yummy refreshments, so bring your flags, friends and family.

a Family Open Day here on the farm.”

As well as showing off the new shop, the farm will be hosting a barbecue of Somerset produce, farm tours with the Butcher family, tastings and showcases, and children’s activities.

“Our farm shop stocks our own lamb, pork, and eggs, alongside carefully chosen local produce – Somerset beef, trout, chicken, jams, chutneys, drinks, and dairy,” the spokesperson said. “It’s all about connecting the community with local food, supporting small farmers and producers, and celebrating

SHAFTESBURY

EMPORIUM, Friday 17th & Saturday 18th October, 94.30pm, Town Hall Shaftesbury, Lots of wonderful locally crafted & consumable items for sale. Free Entry, Supporting DSAA & Weldmar Hospice

ONE OFF EVENT, Fabric and Quilting book Sale, From 50p - £8 each , Thursday 23rd October, 4 - 7pm, Boobs Breast Cancer Shop, 7a Salisbury Street, Shaftesbury, SP7 8EL, All money will be donated to Boobs.

Somerset’s countryside heritage.”

Little Clayhill Farm has been cared for by the Butcher family for five generations, and they said the expansion marks “an exciting new chapter in our journey to bring people closer to

farming, food, and the land”.

“We look forward to welcoming the community for a day of food, fun, and Somerset flavour,” they added.

n For more details, visit the Little Clayhill Farm website, at littleclayhillfarm.co.uk.

Planning | Highways | Licensing |

TRAFFIC NOTICES

Somerset Council Parish of Frome

Temporary Closure of The Mount

Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, have made an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along: The Mount - from 53 metres south of the junction with Feltham Lane, southwards for a total distance of 557 metres. This Order will enable Tithegrove Ltd to carry out drainage and street lighting works on behalf of David Wilson Homes. The Order becomes effective on 15th October 2025 and will remain in force for 18 months. The works are expected to commence on 20th October 2025 and last until 28th November 2025 between the hours of 00:00 - 23:59 for a total of 40 days. Please visit https://one.network/?tm=GB144643404 for further information on the alternative route. For information about the works being carried out please contact Tithegrove Ltd on telephone number 0755 779 1522 quoting reference number ttro162532E.

Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 15th October 2025

Statement of Reasons for making the Order a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

Somerset Council Parish of Long Load

Temporary Closure of Somerton Road

Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, propose to make an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along: Somerton Road - from the junction with Church Lane, northwards for a total distance of 612 metres.This Order will enable Kiely Bros to carry out pre-surface dressing patching works on behalf of Somerset Highways. Solid diamond symbolization will be used on the diversion route and will not clash with any other Kiely Bros works within the area.

The Order becomes effective on 29th October 2025 and will remain in force for 18 months. The works are expected to commence on 6th November 2025 and last until 11th November 2025 between the hours of 09:30 - 15:30 for a total of 6 days. Visit https://one.network/?tm=GB144726562 for further information on the alternative route. For information about the works being carried out please contact Kiely Bros on telephone number 0121 722 3800 quoting reference number ttro242049S.

Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 15th October 2025

Statement of Reasons for making the Order a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

Somerset Council Parish of South Barrow

Temporary Closure of Sparkford Road

Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, propose to make an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along Sparkford Road - from the junction with Fosters Lane, northwards for a total distance of 86 metres. This Order will enable Wessex Water to install a new connection. The Order becomes effective on 29th October 2025 and will remain in force for 18 months.

The works are expected to commence on 3rd November 2025 and last until 7th November 2025 between the hours of 00:00 - 23:59 for a total of 5 days. Please visit https://one.network/?tm=GB145605831 for further information on the alternative route. For information about the works being carried out please contact Wessex Water on telephone number 0345 600 4600 quoting reference number ttro296926S.

Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 15th October 2025

Statement of Reasons for making the Order a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

Somerset Council

Parish of Ash

Temporary Closure of Main Street

Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, propose to make an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along: Main Street - from the junction with Tintinhull Forts Interchange, northwestwards for a total distance of 767 metres. This Order will enable Kiely Bros to carry out pre-surface dressing patching works on behalf of Somerset Highways. Solid diamond symbolization will be used on the diversion route and will not clash with any other Kiely Bros works within the area.

The Order becomes effective on 29th October 2025 and will remain in force for 18 months. The works are expected to commence on 4th November 2025 and last until 6th November 2025 between the hours of 09:30 - 15:30 for a total of 3 days. Please visit https://one.network/?tm=GB144725923 for further information on the alternative route. For information about the works being carried out please contact Kiely Bros on telephone number 0121 772 3800 quoting reference number ttro349542S.

Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 15th October 2025

Statement of Reasons for making the Order

a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

Somerset Council

Parish of Chard Town

Temporary Closure of Catchgate Lane

Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, propose to make an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along: Catchgate Lane - from the junction with Crimchard, north-westwards for a total distance of 140 metres. This Order will enable EJC Contracts Ltd to lay duct and build chambers on behalf of Nexifibre.

The Order becomes effective on 29th October 2025 and will remain in force for 18 months. The works are expected to commence on 4th November 2025 and last until 17th November 2025 between the hours of 08:00 - 19:00 weekdays and 08:00 - 18:00 weekends for a total of 14 days. Please visit https://one.network/?tm=GB145221953 for further information on the alternative route. For information about the works being carried out please contact EJC Contracts Ltd on telephone number 0289 083 9574 quoting reference number ttro364738S.

Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 15th October 2025

Statement of Reasons for making the Order a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

Somerset Council

Parish of Winsham

Temporary Closure of Court Street

Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, propose to make an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along Court Street - from the junction with Church Street to the junction with Broadenham Lane. A total distance of 248 metres. This Order will enable National Grid to carry out tree trimming works.

The Order becomes effective on 29th October 2025 and will remain in force for 18 months. The works are expected to commence on 3rd November 2025 and last until 5th November 2025 between the hours of 00:00 - 23:59 for a total of 3 days. Please visit https://one.network/?tm=GB145563867 for further information on the alternative route. For information about the works being carried out please contact National Grid on telephone number 01460 273067 quoting reference number ttro441481S.

Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 15th October 2025

Statement of Reasons for making the Order

a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

Somerset Council Parish of Long Load

Temporary Closure of Martock Road

TRAFFIC NOTICES

Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, propose to make an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along: Martock Road - from the junction with Paynes Lane to the junction with Church Lane. A total distance of 1301 metres. This Order will enable Kiely Bros to carry out pre-surface dressing patching works on behalf of Somerset Highways. Solid diamond symbolization will be used on the diversion route and will not clash with any other Kiely Bros works within the area.

The Order becomes effective on 29th October 2025 and will remain in force for 18 months. The works are expected to commence on 6th November 2025 and last until 11th November 2025 between the hours of 09:30 - 15:30 for a total of 6 days. Visit https://one.network/?tm=GB144730149 for further information on the alternative route. For information about the works being carried out please contact Kiely Bros on telephone number 0121 772 3800 quoting reference number ttro442253S.

Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 15th October 2025

Statement of Reasons for making the Order a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

Somerset Council Parish of Hatch Beauchamp Temporary Closure of Oldway Lane

Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, have made an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along Oldway Lane - from the junction with Village Road, north-eastwards for a total distance of 76 metres. This Order will enable Amco Griffen to carry out de-vegetation and maintenance works.

The Order becomes effective on 15th October 2025 and will remain in force for eighteen months. The works are expected to commence on 20th October 2025 and last until 22nd October 2025 between the hours of 00:00 - 23:59 for a total of 3 days. Please visit https://one.network/?tm=GB144686918 for further information on the alternative route. For information about the works being carried out please contact GTM on telephone number 0178 723 7509 quoting reference number ttro474702W(TD).

Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 15th October 2025

Statement of Reasons for making the Order

a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

Somerset Council Parishes of The Charltons and Somerton

Temporary Closure of Welham and West Charlton Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, propose to make an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along: Welham - from the junction with Kingweston Road to the junction with Wilmoors Lane; and West Charlton - from the junction with Wilmoors Lane, southeastwards for a distance of 935 metres. A total distance of 1676 metres. This Order will enable Wessex Internet to carry out pre-enablement works of fibre cables. The Order becomes effective on 29th October 2025 and will remain in force for 18 months. The works are expected to commence on 3rd November 2025 and last until 5th November 2025 between the hours of 00:00 - 23:59 for a total of 3 days. Please visit https://one.network/?tm=GB144893035 for further information on the alternative route. For information about the works being carried out please contact Wessex Internet on telephone number 0333 240 7997 quoting reference number ttro500777S.

Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 15th October 2025

Statement of Reasons for making the Order

a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

Somerset Council Parish of Kingsbury Episcopi

Temporary Closure of Dudmoor and Broadmead

Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, propose to make an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along: Dudmoor - from the junction with Folly Road to the junction with Stockditch Road and Broadmead - from the junction with Stockditch Road to the junction with Gawbridge. A total distance of 1711 metres. This Order will enable Wessex Internet to install fibre cables.

The Order becomes effective on 29th October 2025 and will remain in force for 18 months. The works are expected to commence on 3rd November 2025 and last until 7th November 2025 between the hours of 00:00 - 23:59 for a total of 5 days. Please visit https://one.network/?tm=GB145541267 for further information on the alternative route. For information about the works being carried out please contact Wessex Internet on telephone number 0333 240 7997 quoting reference number ttro509986S.

Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive

Dated: 15th October 2025

Statement of Reasons for making the Order

a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

Somerset Council Parish of Corton Denham

Temporary Closure of Corton Denham Road

Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, propose to make an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along Corton Denham Road - from the junction with Beacon Lane to the junction with Ridge Lane. A total distance of 852 metres. This Order will enable Openreach to carry out pole testing works.

The Order becomes effective on 29th October 2025 and will remain in force for 18 months. The works are expected to commence on 6th November 2025 and last until 7th November 2025 between the hours of 09:30 - 15:30 for a total of 2 days. Please visit https://one.network/?tm=GB144983273 for further information on the alternative route. For information about the works being carried out please contact Sunbelt Rentals on telephone number 0370 050 0792 quoting reference number ttro530001S.

Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 15th October 2025

Statement of Reasons for making the Order

a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

Somerset Council Parish of Seavington St. Mary Temporary Closure of Meade Lane

Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, propose to make an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along: Meade Lane - from the junction with Water Street, eastwards for a total distance of 394 metres. This Order will enable Wessex Internet to install duct and fibre cable.

The Order becomes effective on 29th October 2025 and will remain in force for 18 months. The works are expected to commence on 3rd November 2025 and last until 7th November 2025 between the hours of 00:00 - 23:59 for a total of 5 days. There is no alternative route for this closure. The works promoter will contact residents and businesses directly to discuss access arrangements. Visit https://one.network/? tm=GB144879516 for further information. For information about the works being carried out please contact Wessex Internet on telephone number 0333 240 7997 quoting reference number ttro546799S.

Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 15th October 2025 Statement of Reasons for making the Order a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

Somerset Council Parishes of Martock and Long Load

Temporary Closure of Long Load Road

Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, propose to make an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along: Long Load Road - from the junction with Paynes Lane to the junction with Highway Road. A total distance of 1208 metres. This Order will enable Kiely Bros to carry out pre-surface dressing patching works on behalf of Somerset Highways. Solid diamond symbolization will be used on the diversion route and will not clash with any other Kiely Bros works within the area.

The Order becomes effective on 29th October 2025 and will remain in force for 18 months. The works are expected to commence on 6th November 2025 and last until 11th November 2025 between the hours of 09:30 - 15:30 for a total of 6 days. Please visit https://one.network/?tm=GB144727463 for further information on the alternative route. For information about the works being carried out please contact Kiely Bros on telephone number 0121 772 3800 quoting reference number ttro580105S. Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 15th October 2025

Statement of Reasons for making the Order

a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

Somerset Council Parish of Ashcott

Temporary Closure of High Street

Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, propose to make an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along High Street - from the junction with Whitley Lane, south-westwards for a total distance of 62 metres. This Order will enable Wessex Water to install a new connection.

The Order becomes effective on 29th October 2025 and will remain in force for 18 months. The works are expected to commence on 3rd November 2025 and last until 7th November 2025 between the hours of 00:00 - 23:59 for a total of 5 days. Visit https://one.network/?tm=GB144855971 for further information on the alternative route. For information about the works being carried out contact Wessex Water on 0345 600 3600 quoting ttro609580N.

Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 15th October 2025

Statement of Reasons for making the Order

a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

Somerset Council Parish of Sampford Brett

Temporary Closure of Weacombe Road

TRAFFIC NOTICES

Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, propose to make an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along: Weacombe Road - from the junction with Taunton Road, north-eastwards for a total distance of 417 metres. This Order will enable Kier to carry out drainage works on behalf of Somerset Highways.

The Order becomes effective on 29th October 2025 and will remain in force for 18 months. The works are expected to commence on 3rd November 2025 and last until 16th January 2026 between the hours of 00:00 - 23:59 for a total of 75 days. Visit https://one.network/?tm=GB145026171 for further information on the alternative route. For information about the works being carried out please contact Somerset Highways on telephone number 0300 123 2224 quoting reference number ttro611695W.

Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 15th October 2025

Statement of Reasons for making the Order

a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

Somerset Council

Parish of Kingsbury Episcopi

Temporary Closure of Iron Dish Lane

Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, propose to make an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along Iron Dish Lane - from the junction with Burrow Farm Lane, westwards for a total distance of 1030 metres. This Order will enable Heidelberg to carry out prep and resurfacing works on behalf of Somerset Highways. The Order becomes effective on 29th October 2025 and will remain in force for 18 months. The works are expected to commence on 7th November 2025 and last until 11th November 2025 between the hours of 07:30 - 18:00 for a total of 5 days. There is no alternative route for this closure. The works promoter will contact residents and businesses directly to discuss access arrangements. Visit https://one.network/? tm=GB145081262 for further information. For information about the works being carried out please contact Somerset Highways on 0300 123 2224 quoting ttro671740S.

Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 15th October 2025

Statement of Reasons for making the Order a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

Somerset Council Parish of Street

Temporary Closure of Farm Lane

Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, have made an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along Farm Lane - from outside property number 79 Grange Avenue, eastwards for a total distance of 24 metres. This Order will enable Openreach to carry out underground structural works.

The Order becomes effective on 15th October 2025 and will remain in force for 18 months. The works are expected to commence on 20th October 2025 and last until 21st October 2025 between the hours of 09:30 - 15:30 for a total of 2 days. There is no alternative route for this closure. The works promoter will contact residents and businesses directly to discuss access arrangements. Please visit https://one.network/? tm=GB144654045 for further information. For information about the works being carried out please contact Sunbelt Rentals on 0370 050 0792 quoting ttro710902E.

Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 15th October 2025

Statement of Reasons for making the Order

a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

Somerset Council Parish of Bruton

Temporary Closure of Dropping Lane

Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, propose to make an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along: Dropping Lane - from 493 metres east of the junction with Discove Lane, for a total distance of 589 metres. This Order will enable Kier to carry out jetting works on behalf of Somerset Highways.

The Order becomes effective on 29th October 2025 and will remain in force for 18 months. The works are expected to commence on 6th November 2025 and last until 7th November 2025 between the hours of 09:30 - 15:30 for a total of 2 days. Please visit https://one.network/?tm=GB144918202 for further information on the alternative route. For information about the works being carried out please contact Somerset Highways on telephone number 0300 123 2224 quoting reference number ttro815704S.

Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive

Dated: 15th October 2025

Statement of Reasons for making the Order

a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

Somerset Council Parish of Taunton

Temporary Closure of Broadlands Road

Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, have made an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along Broadlands Road - from the junction with Trull Road to the junction with Middleway. A total distance of 172 metres. This Order will enable BRM Utility Services Ltd to repair Frame and Cover on behalf of Vodafone.

The Order becomes effective on 15th October 2025 and will remain in force for 18 months. The works are expected to commence on 21st October 2025 and last until 21st October 2025 between the hours of 07:00 - 19:00 for a total of 12 hours. Please visit https://one.network/?tm=GB144767647 for further information on the alternative route. For information about the works being carried out please contact BRM Utility Services Ltd on telephone number 0771 355 7683 quoting reference number ttro961110W(TD).

Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 15th October 2025

Statement of Reasons for making the Order a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

SOMERSET COUNCIL

(VARIOUS ROADS, HUISH EPISCOPI) (PARISH OF HUISH EPISCOPI) (30MPH SPEED LIMIT)

ORDER 2024

Notice is hereby given that on Friday the 10th day of October 2025 Somerset Council made the above order in pursuance of the provisions of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984, as previously advertised on the 7th day of November 2024 to introduce a 30mph speed limit on the lengths of road as specified in the Schedule to this Order. The Order comes into effect on the 15th day of October 2025. A copy of the Order may be inspected online at www.somerset.gov.uk/TRO. If any person wishes to question the validity of the order or of any of its provisions on the grounds that it or they are not within the powers conferred by the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 (the Act), or that any requirement of the Act or of any instrument made under the Act has not been complied with, that person may, within 6 weeks from the date on which the order is made, apply for the purpose to the High Court. General enquiries relating to this Order may be made in writing, quoting reference number ET18102024, to Somerset Council, Traffic Management, B2 West, County Hall, Taunton TA1 4DY or by email troinbox@somerset.gov.uk

Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 15th October 2025

SOMERSET COUNCIL

(OLD A3037, SEA AND GREENWAY, DOWLISH FORD, ILMINSTER) (PARISHES OF DONYATT AND ILLMINSTER) (40MPH SPEED LIMIT) ORDER 2024

Notice is hereby given that on Friday the 10th day of October 2025 Somerset Council made the above order in pursuance of the provisions of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984, as previously advertised on the 7th day of November 2024 to introduce a 40mph speed limit on the lengths of road as specified in the Schedule to this Order. The Order comes into effect on the 15th day of October 2025. A copy of the Order may be inspected online at www.somerset.gov.uk/TRO. If any person wishes to question the validity of the order or of any of its provisions on the grounds that it or they are not within the powers conferred by the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 (the Act), or that any requirement of the Act or of any instrument made under the Act has not been complied with, that person may, within 6 weeks from the date on which the order is made, apply for the purpose to the High Court. General enquiries relating to this Order may be made in writing, quoting reference number ET22102024, to Somerset Council, Traffic Management, B2 West, County Hall, Taunton TA1 4DY or by email troinbox@somerset.gov.uk.

Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive

Dated: 15th October 2025

Somerset Council Parish of Drayton

Temporary Closure of School Street, Drayton Lane and East Street Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, propose to make an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along: School Street (10th November 2025 - 19th November 2025) - from the junction with Midelney Road, northwards for a distance of 467 metres; Drayton Lane (3rd November 2025 - 5th November 2025) - from the junction with School Street, westwards for a distance of 119 metres and East Street (5th November 2025 - 7th November 2025) from the junction with North Street, eastwards for a distance of 210 metres. A total distance of 796 metres. This Order will enable Wessex Water to carry out phased sewer lining infiltration reduction works.

The Order becomes effective on 29th October 2025 and will remain in force for 18 months. The works are expected to commence on 3rd November 2025 and last until 19th November 2025 between the hours of 00:00 - 23:59 for a total of 15 days. Visit https://one.network/?tm=GB145740907 for further information on the alternative route. For information about the works being carried out contact Wessex Water on 0345 600 3600 quoting ttro073188S.

Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 15th October 2025

Statement of Reasons for making the Order

a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

TRAFFIC NOTICES

Somerset Council Parish of Ash

Temporary Closure of Main Street, Martock Lane, Ash Lane and Foldhill Lane Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, have made an Order prohibiting all traffic from proceeding along Main Street (25th October 2025 - 29th October 2025) - from the junction with Witcombe Lane, south-eastwards for a distance of 68 metres; Martock Lane (25th October 2025 - 29th October and 12th November 2025 - 20th February 2026) - from the junction with Main Street, southwards for a distance of 477 metres; Ash Lane (12th November 2025 - 20th February 2026) - from the junction with Foldhill Lane, northwards for a distance of 670 metres; and Foldhill Lane (13th February 2026 - 20th February 2026) - from 150 metres north-east of the junction with Railway Cuttings Close, eastwards for 22 metres. A total distance of 1,237 metres. This Order will enable Wessex Water to carry out phased installation works for a new main and associated apparatus. The Order becomes effective on 15th October 2025 and will remain in force for 18 months. The works are expected to commence on 25th October 2025 and last until 20th February 2026 between the hours of 00:00 - 23:59 for a total of 106 days. Please visit https://one.network/?tm=GB145673747 for further information on the alternative route. For information about the works being carried out please contact Wessex Water on telephone number 0345 600 4600 quoting reference number ttro846648S.

Duncan Sharkey, Chief

Executive

Dated: 15th October 2025

Statement of Reasons for making the Order

a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

Somerset Council

Kings Drive, Bridgwater in the Parish of Bridgwater Without (Temporary One-Way) Order 2025

Notice is hereby given that on the 10th day of October 2025 Somerset Council made the above Order in exercise of the provisions of Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984, as previously advertised on the 1st day of October 2025, to introduce a temporary one-way on the road specified in the Schedule below.

This Order will come into operation on the 15th day of October 2025 and will remain in force for eighteen months.

The Works are expected to commence on the 20th day of October 2025 until the 4th day of December 2025 (between 0730 hours and 1700 hours) to enable CJL Construction Limited working on behalf of Bloor Homes South West to carry out works to install a new foul water pumping main. The restriction will only apply when indicated by traffic signs.

A copy of the draft Traffic Regulation Order and the associated plans can be examined at www.somerset.gov.uk/TRO. Please visit www.one.network for further information on the alternative route.

For information about the works being carried out please contact CJL Construction Limited, by telephone on 07900 214036.

Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive. Dated: 15th October 2025

Schedule Temporary One-Way

Kings Drive, Bridgwater (northerly direction) - From its junction with the A39 Bath Road in a northerly direction to its junction with Kings Drive (access road to Willowdown Primary School)

Statement of reasons for making the Order

a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

LAND DISPOSAL

SOMERSET COUNCIL

LOCAL GOVERNMENT ACT 1972 SECTION 123 (1),(2A) NOTICE

Land in Norton Sub Hamdon, Somerset Notice is hereby given that Somerset Council intends to dispose of the freehold interest in the Minchington Recreation Ground, a small grass area at Minchington Close and the open space at Barn Orchard to Norton sub Hamdon Parish Council. The consideration for the transfers will be maintenance for the Public Benefit.

Land in Seavington, Somerset Notice is hereby given that Somerset Council intends to dispose of the freehold interest in the Rowdells Orchard to Seavington Parish Council. The consideration for the transfers will be maintenance for the Public Benefit.

Land in Badgworth, Somerset Notice is hereby given that Somerset Council intends to dispose of the freehold interest in the Jubilee Fields to Badgworth Parish Council. The consideration for the transfers will be maintenance for the Public Benefit.

Land in Brushford, Somerset Notice is hereby given that Somerset Council intends to dispose of the freehold interest in the Jubilee Gardens play area to Brushford Parish Council. The consideration for the transfers will be maintenance for the Public Benefit.

Land in Leigh on Mendip, Somerset Notice is hereby given that Somerset Council intends to dispose of the freehold interest in land at Park Hayes to Leigh on Mendip Parish Council. The consideration for the transfers will be maintenance for the Public Benefit. The site plans referred to above can be viewed at https://somerset.gov.uk/publicnotices.

Representations in respect of the intended transfer under the Asset Devolution Programme to City, Town and Parish Councils must be made in writing and addressed to Property Governance, Corporate Property, Somerset Council, County Hall, Taunton, Somerset, TA1 4DY or emailed to propertygovernance@somerset.gov.uk by no later than 5pm on Friday 31st October 2025.

PUBLIC PATHS

Somerset Council Parish of South Petherton

Temporary Closure of Footway Between Summer Shard And Summer Shard Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, intends to make an Order, the effect of which will prohibit all pedestrian traffic from proceeding along Footway Between Summer Shard And Summer Shard- from beside property number 50 Summer Shard to outside property number 66 Summer Shard. A total distance of 38 metres. This Order will enable Openreach to carry out cabling works.

The Order becomes effective on 29th October 2025 and will remain in force for 6 months. The works are expected to commence on 5th November 2025 and last until 7th November 2025 between the hours of 00:00 - 23:59 for a total of 3 days. There is no alternative route for this closure. The works promoter will contact residents and businesses directly to discuss access arrangements. Please visit https://one.network/? tm=GB144917639 for further information. For information about the works being carried out please contact Circet on 0739 921 5678 quoting ttro487725S.

Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 15th October 2025

Statement of Reasons for making the Order

a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

Somerset Council Parish of Taunton

Temporary Closure of Footway Between Hamilton Road And Thames Drive With Various Links

Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, intends to make an Order, the effect of which will prohibit all pedestrian and cyclist traffic from proceeding along; Footway Between Hamilton Road And Thames Drive With Various Links- from the junction with Footway Between Blackbrook Way And Severn Drive With Links To Various Streets, northwards for a total distance of 24 metres. This Order will enable Neom Engineering Ltd to carry out bridge replacement works on behalf of Somerset Highways.

The Order becomes effective on 29th October 2025 and will remain in force for 6 months. The works are expected to commence on 5th November 2025 and last until 17th December 2025 between the hours of 00:00 - 23:59 for a total of 43 days. Please visit https://one.network/?tm=GB145091709 for further information on the alternative route. For information about the works being carried out please contact Neom Engineering Ltd on telephone number 0204 542 0866 quoting reference number ttro837273W(TD).

Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 15th October 2025

Statement of Reasons for making the Order

a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

Somerset Council

Parish of Yeovil Without

Temporary Closure of Footway Between Lyde Road And Fairmead Road Somerset Council in exercise of its powers under Section 14 (1) of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 as amended, intends to make an Order, the effect of which will prohibit all pedestrian traffic from proceeding along Footway Between Lyde Road And Fairmead Road- from the junction with Lyde Road to the junction with Fairmead Road. A total distance of 65 metres. This Order will enable Openreach to lay duct.

The Order becomes effective on 29th October 2025 and will remain in force for 6 months. The works are expected to commence on 4th November 2025 and last until 6th November 2025 between the hours of 00:00 - 23:59 for a total of 3 days. Please visit https://one.network/?tm=GB144935688 for further information on the alternative route. For information about the works being carried out please contact Circet on telephone number 0749 488 1980 quoting reference number ttro156071S.

Duncan Sharkey, Chief Executive Dated: 15th October 2025

Statement of Reasons for making the Order

a) because works are being or are proposed to be executed on or near the road; or b) because of the likelihood of danger to the public, or of serious damage to the road, which is not attributable to such works.

Public Notices

PLANNING NOTICES

Town and Country Planning Act 1990

Town and Country Planning (Development Management Procedure) (England) Order 2015

Town and Country Planning (Environmental Impact Assessment) Regulations 2017 Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended) Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas Act 1990) (As Amended) Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas Regulations 1990 (As amended) Notice under Article 15 of the Town and Country Planning (Development Management Procedure) (England) Order 2015 for an Application for Planning Permission Accompanied by an Environmental Statement. Notice under Regulation 25(3) of the Town and Country Planning (Environmental Impact Assessment) Regulations 2017 for further information submitted in relation to an environmental statement which has already been provided Proposed Development at Moons Hill Quarry, Stoke St Michael, Radstock, BA3 5JU

I give notice that John Wainwright & Company Limited is applying to Somerset Council for planning permissions:

1- SCC/4079/2023 - To vary Planning Conditions 1, 7, 37 and 38 of Planning Permission ref: IDO/M/24/B dated 11th July 1995 to amend the working plans, restoration requirements and end dates to facilitate the Extension of Stoke Quarry

2- SCC/4080/2023 - To vary Planning Conditions 1, 7, 37 and 38 of Planning Permission ref: IDO/M/26/B dated 11th July 1995 to amend the working plans, restoration requirements and end dates to facilitate the Extension of Stoke Quarry

3- SCC/4081/2023 - To vary Planning Conditions 2, 8, 49, 50 and 51 of Planning Permission ref: M25/1/76 dated 9th December 2003 to amend the working plans, restoration requirements and end dates to facilitate the Extension of Stoke Quarry 4- SCC/4082/2023 - For the Extension of Stoke Quarry at Moons Hill Quarry for the winning and working of minerals

The application is accompanied by an Environmental Statement. The development may affect Public Rights of Way, Scheduled Monument and the setting of Listed buildings.

Members of the public may inspect the application online at https://planning.somerset.gov.uk/Planning until 14th November 2025.

Any representations regarding the application should be made to Ruth Amundson at planningmineralsandwaste@somerset.gov.uk

I must point out that representations received become a matter of public record, and as such may be made available at any time. Copies will also be forwarded to the Inspectorate and applicant in the event of an appeal.

Any personal data received, as part of such a representation, will be processed in accordance with the current Data Protection legislation, more information concerning the processing of your personal information by the Council can be found at www.somerset.gov.uk/privacy

This is a re-advertisement which relates to further environmental information submitted under Regulation 25 of the Town and Country Planning (Environmental Impact Assessment) Regulations 2017. Any comments that have already been submitted will still be considered and need not be resubmitted. Planning – Minerals and Waste Team Somerset Council

Somerset Council - Planning North Team Town & Country Planning Act 1990 Town & Country Planning (Development Management Procedure) Order 2015 Planning (Listed Buildings & Conservation Areas) Act 1990 Notice is hereby given that the following applications have been received: Application No. 04/25/00005: 2 Eastside Lane, Bawdrip, Bridgwater, TA7 8QB. Roof repair including replacement of existing battens, felt, lead & barge boards, followed by reinstatement of existing clay pan tiles & ridge, installation of 11No. photovoltaic (PV) panels to East & West-facing single storey pitched roof, & re-opening of a sealed external doorway with installation of an oak door & frame. This application affects a listed building & the setting of a public right of way. Application No. 34/25/00010: Building known as Sandpits Barn, Holloway Road, Middlezoy, Bridgwater, NON REG. Erection of a single storey garage. This application is of public interest. (Householder application). Application No. 07/25/00027: HANOVER HOUSE, 157 Brent Street, Brent Knoll, Highbridge, TA9 4BE. Variation of Condition 2 of Planning Permission 07/24/00008 (Erection of extension to East elevation, erection of extension to West elevation on site of existing conservatory (to be demolished), & erection of terrace & steps into rear garden.) to amend the approved plans in schedule A. This development may affect the setting of a public right of way. (Householder application). Application No. 17/25/00072: Sunny Glen, Upper New Road, Cheddar, BS27 3DL. Variation of Conditions 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 & 11 of Planning Permission 17/23/00037 (Erection of 4no. detached dwellings & associated works.) to amend the positions of the house & garage for plot 4 & move 2No. parking spaces, & to discharge conditions 8, 9, 10 & 14. This development may affect a public right of way. For applications identified as householder, if an appeal against a refusal of planning permission is submitted, there will be no further opportunity to comment at the appeal stage. Comments welcome by 05/11/2025. Applications can be viewed online https://sdc.somerset.gov.uk/planning_online, or at Council Offices & libraries. Any comments must be submitted in writing either online, by email PlanningCommentsNorth@Somerset.gov.uk or posted to Planning - North Team, Somerset Council, Bridgwater House, King Square, Bridgwater, TA6 3AR (quote the application no). Please include your name & postal address so your comments can be recorded. Responses will be made available for public inspection. We aim to comply with current Data Protection legislation; please refer to our Privacy Notice at https://www.somerset.gov.uk/planning-privacy-notice.

Dawn de Vries, Service Manager - Planning North Team. Dated: 15/10/2025

Somerset Council (Former South Somerset Area)

Town and Country Planning Act 1990, Town and Country Planning (Development Management Procedure) Order 2015, Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Act 1990

The following applications have been submitted to the Council. Anyone wishing to make representations about an application should do so within 21 days of the date of this notice via our website www.somerset.gov.uk/planning-buildings-and-land/ where the applications can also be viewed. If you are unable to use our online services, please contact our Customer Services Team on 0300 123 2224 who will be able to support you in accessing these services. Any representations received will be made available for public view.

Broadway 25/02200/DPO Land Rear Of The Bell Inn Broadway Road Application to modify a S106 agreement dated 19.12.2024 to remove the obligation to provide a Package Treatment Plant on-site and agree alternative mitigation to ensure the development is phosphate neutral, through the use of phosphate credits, utilising Somerset’s third-party phosphate mitigation scheme. (in relation to approval 19/03070/FUL).

Chard Town 25/02364/OUT Land Northwest Of Jarman Way TA20 1FB Submission of an outline planning application, with all matters reserved, for the proposed development of up to 12no. dwellings (including up to 4no. affordable homes).

East Chinnock 25/02420/HOU The Old Forge Weston Street BA22 9EG Single-storey extension to the east elevation, raising of the main roof, replacement of the lower roof covering, installation of timber cladding to the south elevation and removal of white plastic fascia boards and soffits.

Haselbury Plucknett 25/02427/HOU Corners North Street TA18 7RQ Single storey rear extension with continuation of existing roofline.

Ilton 25/02402/S19 Barn Conversion Drakes Farm Church Road TA19 9EY S19 application to vary condition 2(approved plans) to allow changes to fenestration, addition of PV panels, repositioning of flue, addition of cladding to west elevation, layout changes and erection of car port building which is also to serve as bat mitigation. In relation to planning approval 18/03962/LBC for Conversion of a barn into two residential dwellings with associated parking and domestic gardens.

Ilton 25/02381/S73A Barn Conversion Drakes Farm Church Road TA19 9EY S73A application to vary condition 2(approved plans) to allow changes to fenestration, addition of PV panels, repositioning of flue, addition of cladding to west elevation, layout changes and erection of car port building which is also to serve as bat mitigation. In relation to planning approval 18/03961/FUL Conversion of a barn into two residential dwellings with associated parking and domestic gardens. Langport 25/02191/HOU Little Green Whatley Lane TA10 9QZ Alterations and extension to front boundary wall.

Pitcombe 25/02215/FUL & 25/02216/LBC Hadspen Valley House Lime Kiln Lane Hadspen Castle Cary BA7 7LX Removal of non historic late C20th outbuilding, erection of single-storey, two-bedroom annexe for elderly relative and carer on existing footprint, erection of outbuildings to accommodate machinery and store, re-instatement of lost historic gates and removal of concrete yard covering.

Wambrook 25/02221/FUL & 25/02222/LBC Wambrook Farm Higher Wambrook TA20 3DF Proposed change of use of Wambrook Farmhouse, stables and outbuildings into 2 holiday letting units. Yeovilton And District 25/02449/LBC Lower Farm Mill Lane Limington BA22 8EJ Structural repair and reinstatement works.

Somerset Council Town & Country Planning Act 1990

Town & Country Planning (Development Management Procedure) Order 2015 Planning (Listed Buildings & Conservation Areas) Act 1990

Notice is hereby given that the following applications have been received: Affects the Setting of Listed Building - Application:23/25/0049 Construction of platform patio and retaining wall on land adjacent to access drive at Lancaster House, St Michaels Hill, Milverton (retention of part works already undertaken). Application:42/25/0036 Conversion of barn into 1 No. dwelling at Chilliswood Farm, Chilliswood Lane, Trull. Listed Building Consent - Application:42/25/0037/LB Conversion of barn into 1 No. dwelling at Chilliswood Farm, Chilliswood Lane, Trull. Major DevelopmentApplication:31/25/0009 Erection of 39 No. dwellings with access, parking, landscaping and other necessary infrastructure on land south of Henlade Close, Stoke Road, Henlade. Application:43/25/0085 Erection of 67 No. dwellings with landscaping and associated infrastructure on land within the approved development area (43/14/0130) for part Phases 4 and 5 on land at Jurston Farm, Wellington. Application:43/25/0086 Approval of reserved matters following Outline Application 43/14/0130 for the appearance, landscaping, scale and layout for the erection of 268 No. dwellings, associated drainage and infrastructure at Phases 4, 5, 6 and 7 on land at Jurston Farm, Wellington. Application:43/25/0088 Application for Approval of Reserved Matters following Outline Application 43/23/0056 for the layout, landscaping, scale and appearance of the erection of 161 No. dwellings and associated infrastructure on land north of Taunton Road, Longforth Park, Wellington

The applications can be viewed online www.somerset.gov.uk/planning-west or at Council Offices & libraries. Comments must be submitted in writing either online, by email planningwest@somerset.gov.uk or posted to Somerset Planning West, County Hall, Taunton TA1 4DY within 21 days (quote the application number). Please include your name, postal & email address for your comments to be recorded. Responses will be made available for public inspection. We aim to comply with current Data Protection legislation; please refer to our Privacy Notice at https://www.somerset.gov.uk/planning-privacy-notice. Date Published: 15/10/2025

New business premises near Wellington

WORK is underway on new units at a busy business park near Wellington.

Developer Summerfield has started work on two new terrace units at the Westpark 26 Business Park, which it says will provide “flexible, energy efficient spaces”.

Four of the units are already under offer, the firm said, with “significant interest in several others”.

The first units on Plot 19, named Summerfield Court, are planned to be available to purchase or rent from summer of next year.

A total of 16 units will be created on the site, to be constructed by Devon Contractors to an EPC A grade standard, featuring solar panels, glazed entrance canopies and optional EV charging points.

Westpark 26 is already home to businesses in distribution, warehousing, logistics and

manufacturing, as well as amenities such as a Travelodge, pub, restaurants, a petrol filling station, Costa, McDonalds and a recently opened KFC drive-thru.

Ben Trickey, commercial director at Summerfield

Commercial, said: “We are pleased to have Devon Contractors on site and to see work progressing on the retaining wall and earthworks.

“Once developed, these 16 units will offer sustainable, EPC

A, high quality accommodation to small and mid-sized businesses.”

n For more information on the development, visit summerfield.co.uk/commercialtype/current-developments.

Orchard plot sells for huge price at auction

A GLASTONBURY orchard –measuring just 1.74 acres – sold for a whopping £217,000 at auction.

The sale was part of the Greenslade Taylor Hunt (GTH) sale at Sedgemoor Auction Centre, Junction 24, in North Petherton, which saw 29 lots go under the hammer.

Among them was the Glastonbury plot, at Edmund Hill Lane, which saw “hugely competitive bidding” before it sold for £217,000 – equating to £124,713 per acre – three times the guide price.

The site includes a range of agricultural and poultry buildings which have the potential for conversion to alternative uses.

Another 10 lots on Edmund Hill Lane were offered for sale, pictured, with all of them selling for significantly over their guide prices, attracting a large number of bidders in the room as well as

more than 40 people registered to bid online.

Among those was the orchard that belonged to Glastonbury farmer, Wilf Peddle, who passed away earlier this year aged 74.

Affectionately known as the ‘Egg Man’, his former orchard was bought by The Friends of St Edmund’s Well CIC for £62,000.

Other prices of note included a small parcel of woodland in Yeovil Marsh, guided at £4,000, which sold for £14,000.

GTH’s next property auction is on Wednesday, October 22, at the Aldwick Estate, Redhill.

Entries are invited for the November sale at Sedgemoor Auction Centre on Wednesday, November 19.

For more information about selling at auction, or to register your interest in upcoming sales, contact the Yeovil GTH office on 01935 423474, or the Redhill office on 0117 2035577.

Work is underway on new premises at Westpark, near Wellington Picture: Summerfield

Slides, Photos & Negatives Transferred to DVD, USB, Hard Drives or Emailed to you Est 1990 located in Bridgwater UK, World Wide coverage

Glorious gardens raise thousands for cause

VITAL care at St Margaret's Hospice

- which has bases in Taunton and Yeovil - received a summer boost thanks to glorious Somerset gardens.

The charity's eighth Glorious Gardens campaign ran through spring and summer, with more than 50 gardens, allotments and more open to visitors - raising a total of £31,471 for the cause.

From cottage gardens and allotments to school grounds and stately lawns, visitors explored, relaxed, and enjoyed tea, cake, and conversation throughout the campaign – all while helping fund specialist hospice care in the county.

The use of gardens as a place for reflection, exercise and to boost wellbeing, is highlighted by St Margaret's, which has gardens open to patients in both Taunton and Yeovil.

"Having worked at the Taunton hospice for six years,

I’ve heard so many stories of how our gardens support patients and their loved ones," said Caroline, the charity's head gardener.

"For some, it’s as simple as watching the birds or squirrels from their window; others have enjoyed picking flowers, growing tomatoes, or simply spending time outdoors with visitors."

Holly Hackett, community partnerships fundraiser, added:

"Every pound raised through Glorious Gardens helps ensure that our patients can receive compassionate, specialist care when they need it most.

"From nursing visits at home to emotional support for families, the impact of this campaign reaches far beyond the garden gate.

"We’re so grateful to everyone who opened their gardens, baked cakes, or came along to any of the openings."

The 2025 campaign was once again sponsored by Greenslade Taylor Hunt.

Now, St Margaret’s is inviting gardeners across Somerset to take part in Glorious Gardens 2026.

"Whether you have a courtyard, allotment, or country garden, every space can make a difference," Holly added.

"We provide everything you need to take part - from posters to publicity - and you’ll be part of a wonderful community helping care to flourish across Somerset."

n For more information, or to register your interest in opening your garden for Glorious Gardens 2026, see st-margarets-hospice.org.uk/ event/glorious-gardens.

Sorry, time to get you home winter-ready!

SORRY to be the ones to break the summer mood – although the recent rain started it – but now is the time to start preparing your home for colder weather.

Here’s a quick autumn home checklist from the team at Armishaws.com

Money boiler

HAVE you serviced your boiler recently? It can increase its lifespan and make it more efficient, reducing winter bills.

If you don’t want to pay for a service, you can check the pressure yourself, most boilers run best at around 1 to 1.5 bar. Get on the fence

DON’T wait for that storm to tell you your fences – lying halfway down the street! – need securing. Check them for any weaknesses before they fly away.

Declutter the gutter

GIVE your gutters a quick clean now, rather than having to climb

that ladder after the weather turns.

Lag it

LAG exterior pipes or taps to protect them against the winter chill, not forgetting those in loft spaces or outbuildings.

There’s nothing plumbers like more than fixing burst pipes in winter when they can charge premium rates to fix a potentially preventable issue. While you’re at it, disconnect and drain hosepipes to prevent them splitting.

Chim-chim cheree

Make sure it’s fully dry before covering it and putting it in storage to prevent damp and mould. Fight drafts DRAUGHT excluders are a really cheap way to keep chills out. For windows, easy to install window kits are available from most DIY stores. True grit

WHEN was the last time you had the chimney cleaned? And have you tested the batteries in carbon monoxide and smoke detectors recently?

Greener flames

IF you have a woodburner or

open fire, autumn is a good time to research alternatives to burning wood, to reduce your carbon emissions. Many high-street stores and DIY shops now supply eco-friendly logs. Radiator gladiator BLEED them now. You get bonus points if you left the radiator key somewhere easy to find.

Great outdoors CLEAN outdoor furniture.

GET grit for your pathways now, well before winter arrives, to ensure you have it to hand when things turn icy. Veg out

IF you really want to plan ahead, September is the month to plant things like garlic, onions, radishes and to ensure an early spring harvest.

n Get more household tips and advice at Armishaws.com/ blog

Now is a good time to clean gutters before winter sets in

Somerset role in CBD study for Parkinson's

AGROUNDBREAKING

trial in Somerset aims to find out if cannabidol (or CBD) is an effective treatment for patients with Parkinson’s disease, who also experience psychosis.

Members of the research and Parkinson’s teams at Somerset NHS Foundation Trust have teamed up for the CANnabidiol for Parkinson’s Disease Psychosis trial (CAN-PDP).

The clinical drug trial is open across a number of hospitals in the UK, investigating whether CBD is a safe and tolerable treatment for reducing psychotic symptoms, such as hallucinations and delusions, in patients with Parkinson’s.

About three in five people with Parkinson’s experience symptoms, such as seeing, hearing, or feeling things that are not really there, which are hallucinations, or experience strange beliefs, which are known as delusions.

These symptoms are referred to as Parkinson’s disease psychosis (PDP).

The current treatment strategies for this condition are either not very effective, safe, or convenient for everyday use, which is why the trial is looking at CBD as a safer, more tolerable alternative treatment.

CBD is a non-addictive chemical that’s naturally found in the cannabis plant and research has shown CBD may safely and effectively reduce

psychotic symptoms.

However, it has not been tested for psychosis specifically in Parkinson’s patients who are taking other medications.

The study team is also conducting a brain imaging sub-study to investigate the brain changes that occur in patients experiencing psychosis during Parkinson’s, and whether CBD reduces these changes.

Nishi Singh, a research nurse at Somerset NHS Foundation Trust, said: "The CAN-PDP study is aiming to recruit 120 patients across the UK," she said. "In Somerset, we’ve been set a target of two patients, and we’ve already reached this, although we’re going to keep recruiting until the study closes in August this year.

"I think it’s a really exciting study for our trust to be involved in and it could make a huge difference for patients with Parkinson’s who’re experiencing psychosis.

"We know that not all patients with Parkinson’s have symptoms of psychosis, delusions or hallucinations, but for those who do, it’ll be good to understand whether CBD can have a therapeutic effect in reducing those symptoms."

Dr Sarah Cleaver, a care of the elderly consultant and Somerset NHS Foundation Trust’s principal investigator for the study, added: "It's really exciting to be part of a national study looking to improve the

quality of life of patients suffering with psychosis alongside their Parkinsons, as our current options for treatment are limited and psychosis can be so debilitating."

Naz Ekizoglu, a clinical research associate at King’s College London, which leads on the CAN-PDP study, said: "We’re truly excited about the potential of CBD to change how

we support people with Parkinson’s who experience hallucinations and delusions. "It’s been great to have Somerset as one of our study sites, their team has been incredibly collaborative and a pleasure to work with. We are genuinely grateful for their dedication and the hard work they’ve put into making this research possible."

Nishi Singh, Kimberley Gillman and Anita Goff

Picture: Somerset NHS

Arrow words

Monkeys

Crossword

Sudoku 3D puzzle

Cryptic crossword

Place 1 to 9 once into every black-bordered 3x3 area as well as each of the 54 rows indicated by the coloured lines. Rows don’t cross the thick black lines.

Killer Sudoku Pro

Killer Sudoku Pro Place numbers 1 to 9 once each into every row, column and bold-lined 3x3 box. No digit may be repeated in any dash-lined cage, and all the digits in any cage must add up to the value shown in that cage.

Posh doctor with artist in shadow (5)

A very advanced party supporting Britain boastful display (7)

Promise a grant possibly to cover university and centres for new experts (9) 5 Friend found in pearls oddly (3) 6 Genuine money for kingdom (5) 7 Criminal male CID gets to harangue (7) 11 Most intelligent young animal catching after cold (9)

13 Arab opponent is coming (7)

(6)

15 Hate unusual power in erratic side (7)

(6)

17 New or senior guards in a deteriorated state? (5)

(4)

19 Alter first person in final (5)

21 Reserve diamonds (3)

(6)

(6)

Town pub closes amid economic "disarray"

ALANDMARK historic Somerset pub has closed amid a financial climate "in disarray".

The Bay Tree, in Fore Street, Castle Cary, called last orders on Sunday, October 5, with licensees Kevin, Rennie and Maria standing down.

Although delivery services would continue, the trio said the "difficult decision" had been taken amid testing economic conditions for the trade.

"It is with great sadness and a heavy heart we have made the difficult decision to close the Bay Tree," they said.

"As you all well know, the current financial climate is in disarray and has had a huge impact on our business.

"Costings are through the roof, as you all are aware.

"We have been licensees in Castle Cary for over 27 years and it’s now time to retire.

"We would like the thank our staff for their loyalty, commitment and hard work, we wish them all the success in their new jobs and university.

"We all achieved our five-star hygiene rating and have been the number one place to eat in Castle Cary on Tripadvisor for some

FREE DRINKS on a Saturday from 12-2pm with every pizza or ploughmans!

six years. Also (thanks to) our customers, we would not have had a business without you - especially to our regulars, who have kept us going through the rainy days, and who have become friends as well as customers.

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Many thanks to you all."

The closure comes amid plans for the nearby George Hotel, which is set to be redeveloped by new owners The Newt, were presented to townsfolk.

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Extraordinary story of Keyford Asylum to be told in community radio first

COMMUNITY radio station FromeFM will broadcast its first-ever play later this month.

The station has teamed up with town performing group, Dramakarma, for a performance of The Last Matron, set to hit the airwaves on October 29.

An original production, The Last Matron brings to life the "rich, often untold history of Keyford Asylum, a once-pivotal institution in the heart of Frome", organisers said.

"First performed on stage in 2023 to wide acclaim, The Last Matron now reaches a broader audience through this atmospheric radio adaptation," they went on.

"Written by Kevin Ross in association with Dramakarma and Keyford History Group, the play is inspired by real events, personal diaries and historical records spanning over a century."

The story is set against the background of a crumbling institution facing demolition,

with characters including a defiant young girl desperate to escape institutional life, elderly residents clashing and reminiscing and brave evacuee children confronting the chaos of WW2.

And at the heart of it all, the Matron - a stoic figure holding together the fragile threads of life inside the walls of the 'home'.

As the Matron bears witness to the spectres of the past, The Last Matron becomes more than a tale of loss - it’s a call to remember and honour the lives shaped within those historic walls.

Writer Kevin said: "This is not just a drama - it’s a tribute to a building that once was the soul of the community.

"Through radio, we’re able to breathe new life into the voices of those who walked it’s corridors."

The Keyford Asylum was established in 1804, following the charitable legacy of Richard Stevens, a local currier who left

funds to educate poor girls and care for elderly men in the town.

Serving multiple roles in the town over its 150-year history - including as a hospital to a military auxiliary during WW1 and a refuge for evacuees and a billet for soldiers in WW2 - the institution stood as a beacon of care and resilience until its

demolition in 1957.

Now, decades later, The Last Matron ensures that the building’s legacy is not lost to time.

n The Last Matron will premiere on FromeFM at 8pm on October 29. Tune in to 96.6FM, or simultaneously online at www.frome.fm.

The story of the long-demolished Keyford Asylum will be told in a special radio play on October 29

Motoring

UK's most popular cars of 2025 revealed

NEW car registrations rose by 13.7% in September, according to new data - with the UK's most popular cars revealed.

The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) said there were 312,891 registrations last month, the strongest 'new numberplate' month since 2020.

And the figures revealed 50.8% of new vehicles registered during the 75-plate month were electrified, with plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) becoming fastest growing powertrain, rising 56.4% to achieve a 12.2% market share.

Hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) totalled 15.3% of all new car deliveries in September.

Battery electric vehicle (BEV) uptake increased by 29.1% to 72,779 registrations. It came after the start of a new Electric Car Grant, a government scheme offering discounts of up to £3,750.

Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive, said: "Electrified vehicles are powering market growth after a sluggish summer – and with record ZEV uptake,

massive industry investment is paying off, despite demand still trailing ambition.

"The Electric Car Grant will help to break down one of the barriers holding back more drivers from making the switch – and tackling remaining roadblocks, by unlocking infrastructure investment and driving down energy costs, will be crucial to the success of the industry and the environmental

goals we share."

The 10 most popular new cars in the UK in September 2025:

Kia Sportage: 9,455

Ford Puma: 8,310

Nissan Qashqai: 7,218

Jaecoo 7: 6,489

Vauxhall Corsa: 5,841

BYD Seal U: 5,373

Hyundai Tucson: 5,348

MG HS: 5,173

Volkswagen Golf: 5,147

Volvo XC40: 4,942

The 10 most popular cars of 2025 so far in the UK:

Ford Puma: 41,531

Kia Sportage: 38,734

Nissan Qashqai: 32,789

Vauxhall Corsa: 29,327

Nissan Juke: 26,995

Volkswagen Golf: 25,163

MG ZS: 24,104

Hyundai Tucson: 23,730

Volkswagen Tiguan: 23,519

Volvo XC40: 22,941

Roads policing officers at 10-year low: RAC

THE number of roads policing officers in England and Wales has reduced by more than 1,000 in the last 10 years, RAC analysis of government data has revealed.

Back in 2015 5,237 officers across 43 police forces were working in a range of roles from traffic units on the roads to safety camera partnerships focused on mobile speed enforcement.

As of 2025, this has fallen to just 4,149 – 1,088 reduction – making for a 21% drop.

Looking purely at police out on the roads or ‘cops in cars’, the reduction is greater with the

number of traffic units decreasing by 1,116 from 5,005 in 2015 to 3,889 in 2025 – a 22% reduction.

And there has even been a slight decline in the number of officers dedicated to safety camera partnerships – or casualty reduction partnerships as they are formally known – with 42 fewer this year – 144 – than 10 years ago – 186.

RAC head of policy, Simon Williams, said: “It’s clear from our analysis that the number of officers dedicated to roads policing is at a 10-year low which can only be seen as bad for the enforcement of motoring

laws.

“Drivers we’ve surveyed express strong concerns about the dangers posed by others on the road breaking traffic laws, whether that’s speeding, drink or drug-driving, using a handheld mobile phone, driving in an aggressive way or not having tax or insurance.

“While automatic number plate recognition cameras have become much more common in the last decade, not seeing as many officers in police cars lessens the fear of being caught breaking the law, which may explain why so many lawabiding drivers are concerned

about the behaviour of others they share the road with.

“The deterrent value of ‘cops in cars’ should not be underestimated.

“We’d very much like to see a return to having more officers on traffic duty or significant new measures introduced to crack down on those who break the rules of the road.

“With the Government on the verge of publishing the nation’s first road safety strategy for over a decade, we hope there are plenty of positive measures planned to cut casualties and keep everyone safe on the roads.”

Learners shifting towards automatic cars

THE AA Driving School now predicts one-third of all driving tests will be taken in an automatic car in 2026/27.

The latest data from the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) shows a consistent rise in the number of automatic tests conducted.

In 2012/13, just 6.1% of all driving tests were taken in automatics. By 2023/24, that had surged to 23.4%, and reached 26% in 2024/25, which equated to 479,556 automatic car driving tests.

If current growth continues, AA Driving School expects automatic driving tests could reach 32% for the 2026/27 year, moving to a tipping point where manual tests are no longer the norm.

The rise in automatic tests is being fuelled by a combination of technological innovation and government policy.

Electric vehicles, all of which are automatic, are becoming increasingly common on UK roads. As more drivers make the switch to EVs, many learners are choosing to train in vehicles that reflect the future of driving.

The AA Driving School recently expanded its fleet of electric vehicles (EVs) to meet growing demand.

Since June, AA Driving School franchisees can opt for a Mini Aceman SE, VW id.3 Pro Hatch or BYD Dolphin Comfort.

In 2024, more than 68,000 hours of driving lessons were

taught by AA Driving School franchisees in electric vehicles, and 36% of instructor trainees opted to begin their teaching careers in an automatic.

So far in 2025, that figure has risen slightly to 37%, which shows a steady and growing interest in automatic instruction.

Emma Bush, managing director, AA Driving School,

said: “With more people becoming confident with the idea of their driving future being electric, the idea of needing to drive a manual vehicle will feel irrelevant to many.

“As EVs and hybrids become more popular, more people are choosing to learn in an automatic.”

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Antiques & Collectibles

Diamond ring smashes estimate at auction

DIAMONDS are forever, so the song goes, and they are certainly holding value if a recent Somerset auction is anything to go by.

They were among some high-performing lots at the Somerset Salerooms, in North Petherton, during a jewellery, watches and silver sale held by Greenslade Taylor Hunt (GTH).

There had been plenty of pre-sale buzz about a platinum old cut diamond three-stone ring prior to the sale, at the Sedgemoor Auction Centre, Junction 24.

Hallmarked Birmingham, the old European cut diamonds weighed in at 3.10 carats, with the ring comfortably exceeding its guide price, selling for £4,200.

Meanwhile, Cartier is a name synonymous with elegance and

timeless style and a fine example – a ladies Cartier Santos Galbee wristwatch in 18ct gold and stainless steelwas another coveted lot. It came complete with service records and manuals - but was in need of a new battery - and sold for £2,500.

An antique gold fancy link guard chain with wavy ribbon leaf design was another

eyecatcher and sold for £1,800, while an unusual Georgian pink topaz and diamond ring sold well at £1,400.

A 14ct gold fancy curb link bracelet, hallmarked Birmingham, made £1,300 though the safety chain was broken, and a Victorian 18ct gold and diamond snake ring, set with graduated old European cut diamonds, hallmarked

London, sold for £850.

A couple of lots with royal connections also proved popular in the saleroom.

A pair of Elizabeth II silver goblets by Hector Miller for Aurum, commissioned by the order of The Dean & Chapter of St Paul's Cathedral to commemorate the wedding of Prince Charles and Lady Diana Spencer in 1981, sold for well in excess of the guide pricewith the hammer coming down at £700.

Another limited-edition silver centrepiece, again by Hector Miller for Aurum, this time to mark the 60th birthday of Queen Elizabeth II, complete with paperwork, sold for £550. It was in the form of a six-light candleholder with pierced gilded cover.

The next similar sale takes place on Thursday, November 6,

How you can bid on your own dinosaur sculpture

DINOSAUR lovers in Somerset could own their very own willow replica thanks to an unusual auction.

Coates English Willow, based at Stoke St Gregory near Taunton, created dozens of creatures our of the malleable wood for this year’s Sculpture Trail – which ran until October 10.

And they said a plan was formulated about what to do with many of them when the trail ends – offering them to the public.

“Lots of people have asked if they can buy a dinosaur once the Sculpture Trail ends on October 10, so we have decided to sell them in a sealed-bid auction,” a spokesperson said.

“Not all the dinosaurs are available, as we have plans for the Tyrannosaurus Rex and the Velociraptors,” they added.

However, the likes of Ankylosuars, Pterodactyls, Diplodocus and Stegosaurs are still up for grabs in the sale.

People are being encouraged to submit bids, over £100, by email only to nicola@ coatesenglishwillow.co.uk before 10pm on Saturday, October 18.

“If you are lucky enough to secure a dinosaur, we will need to receive your payment in full before 5pm on October 23,” the spokesperson went on.

“If payment is not received on time, the bid will be disqualified and we will offer the dinosaur to an underbidder.”

People should include their name, address, contact number, name of dinosaur and total bid amount in their submissions.

“A few words about why you want the dinosaur and what you plan to do with is optional but will be taken into consideration,” the spokesperson added. “Good luck.”

For the full list of lots, see coatesenglishwillow.co.uk/ own-a-willow-dinosaur.htm.

This diamond ring sold for £4,200 at the GTH sale

Meeting Place

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Advertising

Ruth White - Advertising Manager ruth@somersetleveller.co.uk tel: 07714 289418

Editorial

Paul Jones - Editor in Chief newsdesk@somersetleveller.co.uk tel: 01963 401177

Sales Director Lloyd Armishaw - tel: 01963 401177

Debi Thorne - Sales Director debi.thorne@blackmorevale.net tel: 07714 289409

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