Somerset News
News
Somerset faces major flooding as the River Parrett bursts its banks following unprecedented rainfall, with emergency evacuations in Muchney and Thorney. Meanwhile, Glastonbury Tor's new visitor center opens to record crowds ahead of next week's world-famous festival.
Business News
Smart Campus secures £300 million investment from Tesla for a new battery research facility, creating 1,200 jobs. Clarks Shoes announces expansion of its Street headquarters, safeguarding 500 local manufacturing roles.
Economic News
Somerset's economy grows by 3.8%, boosted by strong performance in advanced engineering and tourism sectors. Cheddar reports a 22% increase in visitors, though farmers warn of crop losses due to flooding.
Political News
Controversy erupts over revised plans for the Somerset Levels flood prevention scheme, with environmental groups threatening legal action. The county council will vote on final proposals next month.
Election News
With local elections approaching in May 2026, the Liberal Democrats gain ground in traditional Conservative strongholds. Key issues include rural broadband, flood defenses, and the future of Hinkley Point C.
Employment News
Unemployment drops to 2.4%, the lowest in a decade, with particular growth in renewable energy and food production sectors. A new agricultural technology training center opens in Shepton Mallet.
Business News
Shares in Somerset-based companies show strong performance, with Yeos Leonardo Helicopters rising 5% after securing new MOD contracts. Cider producers including Thatchers see 8% growth ahead of summer season.
Forecast
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Mon (Jun 16): Heavy rain, 16°C
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Tue (Jun 17): Showers, 15°C
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Wed (Jun 18): Cloudy, 17°C
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Thu (Jun 19): Sunny intervals, 19°C
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Fri (Jun 20): Sunny, 22°C
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Sat (Jun 21): Warm, 24°C
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Sun (Jun 22): Sunny, 25°C
Entertainment News
The newly refurbished Bristol Old Vic announces its Somerset season, including a special production of "Lorna Doone" performed in Exmoor locations. West Country folk legend Seth Lakeman announces surprise Glastonbury warm-up gig in Wells.
Upcoming Events in Somerset
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June 28-22: Frome Festival (Various venues)
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June 21: Somerset County Cricket vs. Surrey (Taunton)
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June 25: W Show (Shepton Mallet)
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June 28-July 2: Glastonbury Festival (Worthy Farm)
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July 2: Outdoor Cinema: "Hot Fuzz" (Wells Cathedral Green)
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July 5: Carnival of the Moon (Glastonbury)
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July 10: Seth Lakeman Live (Wells Cathedral)
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July 15: Somerset Food Festival (Taunton)
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July 20: Dunster Show (Dunster Castle)
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Aug 3-5: Bristol Balloon Fiesta (Ashton Court - nearby event)
Transport Alert: Major flooding has closed the between Glastonbury and Street.
Tourism Note: Visit Somerset reports record advance bookings for the summer season, despite flood concerns, with particular interest in the county's literary and food tourism offerings.
Correction: In our previous edition, we incorrectly stated the opening date for the Gra Smart Campus. The facility is scheduled to open in September 2025, not August. We apologize for this error.
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