News in Midsomer Norton and Radstock

The leader of Bath and North East Somerset Council leader has urged people to remain calm and outlined its response to the coronavirus pandemic.

Many services offered by the authority are being scaled back or changed and Councillor Dine Romero said people need to adapt to different behaviours.

Some positive news - and it smells good too.

Because so many countries have shuttered down, there are currently only two main customers at the international flower markets in Holland, the UK and Germany, so blooms there are a plenty.

The family of Midsomer Norton brave youngster Henry, who needs life changing spinal surgery and intensive therapy, are trying not only to keep him well and entertained as they self distance, but are now worrying how they can continue fundraising.

Several big fundraising events have had to be cancelled, and with Henry suffering from cerebral palsy spastic diplegia they don't know what comes next.

The coffee shop in the main supermarket in Radstock was closed this morning (Thursday) so that staff could be diverted to stocking up shelves.

The manager of the Radco store explained the move, and reassured customers that it was NOT to do with any virus scares.

Tesco Superstore in Midsomer Norton is closing two hours earlier for the foreseeable future and introducing special morning shopping sessions for the vulnerable and elderly.

Shopping restrictions are also being implemented in response to people over-buying amid the coronavirus outbreak.

RADSTOCK BRIEFING: Thursday March 19

So we are changing our daily briefing in light of the coronavirus crisis. From now on we will still be giving you the daylight hours, the weather and shop opening times, but we are adding in other key details to help the community get through this unprecedented and challenging time. Do let us know if you think there is some additional information you might find useful and here at Radstock Nub News will we do our best to include it.

MIDSOMER NORTON BRIEFING: Thursday March 19

Today,a great local initiative by Brookes News in Midsomer Norton which is offering to deliver to all customers who are going to self isolate. From next Monday they will be offering, in addition to the newspapers, milk , bread ,groceries … as long as they have it in stock. Contact Hilary or Val on 01761 412378 .

Midsomer Norton's Costa Coffee is closing its seating area and serving all food and drinks in takeaway cups and packaging from tomorrow (Thurs).

CEO Jill McDonald has announced a raft of changes which will come into effect at all the company's coffee shops.

Updated; The government has just announced that all schools, across the UK will close from Friday. The only children left in school will be those of key NHS workers.

Earlier today, Norton Hill School announced that some year groups will be closing and pupils no longer need to come into school, due to staff and pupil numbers falling as coronavirus takes hold.

Pubs and restaurants in Radstock and Midsomer Norton are being given the green light by the Government to legally sell hot food takeaway during the coronavirus outbreak.

Currently, planning permission is required for businesses to carry out a change of use to a hot food takeaway.