News in Midsomer Norton

Bath & North East Somerset Council is thanking residents for heeding advice about not having bonfires – and reminding them of other options to manage garden waste which will help them during this next phase of the public response to the coronavirus outbreak.

At the end of March the council asked people to avoid lighting fires in case people living near them had breathing difficulties, resulting in a positive response from residents with complaints about bonfires having fallen this month.

Local radio station Somer Valley FM are marking the start of Mental Health awareness week by joining hundreds of radio stations across the UK for the annual #mentalhealthminute campaign.

The special audio featuring the Duke of Cambridge, Katy Perry, Stephen Fry and other famous voices will be broadcast at 10:59 and everyone is invited to join in on social media.

The newly elected Mayor of Midsomer Norton has a clear goal in office.

Cllr Lynda Robertson doesn't hesitate for a moment, telling Nub News: " "I think the most important thing for me is to get the High Street going again. It's vital. "

An application by Bristol Airport to increase the number of night flights that take off and land at the airport year-round has been objected to by Bath & North East Somerset Council.

The airport is currently allowed 3,000 night flights in summer and 1,000 in winter and has applied to increase this to 4,000 throughout the year from Summer 2021, but the council says the disadvantages outweigh the benefits and will have a negative effect on Bath and North East Somerset residents living in towns near the airport.

The terrific local charity SWALLOW has turned to takeaway to keep essential funds coming in.

Local estate agency Sam Chivers says they can't wait to get people moving again - but warn that it is early days.

On Wednesday (May 13) the government's decision to get the housing market re-opened left many companies working out just how they could re-start home viewings and open offices - safely.

At the outset of the COVID-19 lockdown, local solicitors Thatcher + Hallam set up an advice helpline service to business owners and commercial landlords and tenants. Six weeks later, the helpline has proved to be a vital source of advice for local businesses.

Lucy Ingram is one of the solicitors who can be contacted on the helpline. 'We have spoken to many landlords, tenants and local business owners over the last few weeks' says Lucy. 'I am pleased to hear that many have adapted well and with the help of some reassurance as to the legal position and practical advice to suit their individual circumstances, local businesses have remained impressively robust'.

The good news is, after some spectacular record breaking weather reports, it is going to warm up.

According to Midsomer Norton's favourite local weather man: " The weather is on the warm up and by this time next week we could well be seeing temperatures in the high 20's C."

Avon and Somerset Police is playing a "supporting role in a public health crisis" now the lockdown has been relaxed.

Following the "baby steps" set out by Prime Minister Boris Johnson, chief constable Andy Marsh said there are now many more reasons why people can be outside, so there is greater need for everyone to act responsibly.

The easing of the lockdown rules has caused some concern about what is and isn't possible when it comes to visiting the countryside.

Today in parliament the Environment Secretary George Eustice sought to clarify what you can and cannot do when heading into the countryside.