News in Midsomer Norton and Radstock

The Government has issued advice for pet owners and livestock keepers about caring for their animals during the coronavirus pandemic.

The government guidance is that there is no evidence of the virus circulating in pets or other animals in the UK and there is nothing to suggest animals may transmit the disease to humans.

The Green Shop in Midsomer Norton will still be open on Monday (March 30), but only serving customers via the front window, so no more browsing, even at a safe distance.

Owner Emma Ramsden has taken the decision to close to walk ins, and to focus on telephone orders, to keep her staff safe.

Somer Valley Foodbank continues to need supplies for the most vulnerable in Midsomer Norton, but they are also getting offers of extra volunteers.

As of today (March 26) organisers say that they have enough of their usual volunteers to keep going, but many people have already been in touch offering to help alongside them.

Bunches of flowers with a little note saying thank you have been appearing on doorsteps, and outside the local shop, in Writhlington.

The thoughtful gesture has been cheering up the local community who have dubbed their special visitor, the flower fairy.

The Government has today (Friday March 27) issued advice for pet owners and livestock keepers about caring for their animals during the coronavirus pandemic.

There is no evidence of the virus circulating in pets or other animals in the UK and there is nothing to suggest animals may transmit the disease to humans.

Bath & North East Somerset Council is highlighting some free materials that have been produced in response to Coronavirus (Covid-19) to help people with additional needs access essential information about the pandemic.

Mencap has produced an easy-read version of its Covid-19 information and autism consultant Carol Gray has produced a social story to help explain the virus to people with autism.

The police were out and about on patrol today (March 27) in a clear presence in Midsomer Norton, the day after new powers were introduced to help them in tackling the coronavirus outbreak.

These two officers, neighbourhood beat manager, PC Mark Graham and Sgt Sam Kayser, were patroling along the main Radstock Road around one o'clock.

Thatcher + Hallam Solicitors have been holding a free legal surgery at their Island House offices in Midsomer Norton for an uninterrupted 35 years.

During that time, the firm estimates that they have helped out more than 12,000 clients. The surgery is believed to be one of the oldest continuous legal clinics in the whole of the country.

RADSTOCK BRIEFING: Friday March 27.

In case you missed it, Running on Hempty in Fortescue Road has had to shut up, but will still be selling all its on line, with the owner saying they will do their best to deliver locally. One of the newest businesses to the road it stocked all kinds of products including electric aroma diffusers and essential oils to keep you calm and de-stressed. All the products via their web site.

MIDSOMER NORTON BRIEFING: Friday March 27