Local News Thursday 15th December

Thursday, 15 December 2022 06:00

One hundred and sixty-nine motorists have been arrested in the first three weeks of the Avon and Somerset Police Christmas crackdown on drink and drug driving. A consultant in public health at Somerset County Council says it's important to keep homes warm during the day. 8.6 million pounds is being spent refurbishing five schools in Crewkerne and Ilminster. This winter, an appeal to support vulnerable people in Somerset has raised more than 100 thousand pounds...and more.

One hundred and sixty-nine motorists have been arrested in the first three weeks of the Avon and Somerset Police Christmas crackdown on drink and drug driving. ‘Operation Tonic’ with officers carrying out roadside checks as part of the campaign was started earlier this year to coincide with the World Cup. Last year’s campaign resulted in the arrests of 246 drivers.

A consultant in public health at Somerset County Council says it's important to keep homes warm during the day, particularly for people who are vulnerable to the cold. Alice Munro says not keeping rooms well heated can lead to serious health problems.

8.6 million pounds is being spent refurbishing five schools in Crewkerne and Ilminster. Ashlands Primary School is getting a new classroom built. Herne View Primary School is having its classrooms refurbished. Wadham School is getting a new food classroom and dining space built. Maiden Beech Primary School is getting a new classroom for reception children. And, new windows, doors and a new heating system are being fitted at Wadham School, together with a refurbishment of the science block.

This winter, an appeal to support vulnerable people in Somerset has raised more than 100 thousand pounds. The Somerset Surviving Winter Appeal, organized by Somerset Community Foundation runs every year with the public donating their winter fuel payment for giving to those in greatest need.

There is just over one week left to comment on a new plan for children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities in Somerset. The Somerset SEND Partnership is urging families to share their thoughts before the 23rd of December. The strategy will set out the next steps to improve the lives of children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities in Somerset.

A sprig of thorn from Glastonbury is on its way to King Charles to include in his Christmas table display. Legend has it that the holy thorn in Glastonbury was planted by Joseph of Arimathea when he brought the Holy Grail to the town and established Glastonbury’s first Christian church. The tradition of taking a cutting to give to the Monarch was started by the Bishop of Bath and Wells back in the reign of King James the First.

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