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Motorcyclist airlifted to hospital
A MOTORCYCLIST was airlifted to hospital following an accident on the M5 motorway near Burnham-On-Sea on Friday afternoon (April 30th). Police, fire and ambulance crews from Burnham were sent to the northbound carriageway after the rider lost control near junction 21. More...

Protesters in fresh protest march
ANGRY villagers in Berrow calling for a new pavement to be introduced along Coast Road will hold their first protest march of the year on Saturday (May 1st) as their fight continues. Berrow's Local Action Team is organising the protest, starting at 11am at the village church. More...

Murder: Man enters 'not guilty' plea
A BURNHAM-On-Sea man has today pleaded not guilty to the murder of 20 year-old George Lawson (pictured right). Adam Lapthorne appeared at Exeter Crown Court where entered his plea and spoke only to confirm his name. The 23 year-old will now stand trial on August 2nd. More...

Highbridge sets police priorites
Exclusive: TACKLING vandalism and drug dealing will be the two top priorities for police in Highbridge over the next three months, residents in the town have decided this week. Over 20 residents made the decision at the quarterly Partners and Communities Together (PACT) meeting. More...

Police warning after town break-ins
Exclusive: POLICE in Burnham-On-Sea and Highbridge have this week urged homeowners to be extra vigilant after a series of break-ins by opportunistic burglars. Laptop computers and other high value personal items have been stolen during eighteen break-ins over the last three months. More...

Tessa in election walkabout
LIBERAL Democrat parliamentary candidate Tessa Munt was in Burnham-On-Sea on Friday (April 30th) when she visited traders across the town centre. Tessa's election walkabout included visits to Shickle Shoes, the Newquay Pasty Shop, Sea Breeze and Truckles farm shop. More...

Cancer Trust concert to be held
POPULAR local music group the Ginger Hitlas will join four other groups in playing at a charity concert in Burnham-On-Sea on Friday (April 30th). The event at The Railway Inn in the High Street is being held to raise funds for the Teenage Cancer Trust. Four up-and-coming groups will join the Hitlas. More...

Highbridge police meeting tonight
HIGHBRIDGE residents will be able to have their say about policing in the town when a quarterly Partners and Communities Together (PACT) meeting is held tonight (Thursday, April 29th). PACT meetings give local residents a chance to influence what happens in their area. More...

Royal encounter for town runner!
WELL-known Burnham-On-Sea runner Jason Vickers has raised more than £2,300 for charity by completing the London Marathon - and he even had an encounter with Royalty during the event. Jason, who works at Burnham's Tesco supermarket, ran Sunday's London marathon. More...

200 watch town election debate
BURNHAM-On-Sea's three main general election candidates answered questions on topics ranging from the economy to assisted suicide and the Severn Barrage during a public debate in the town on Wednesday evening (April 28th). Almost 200 people attended the special 'Election Hustings Meeting' in Burnham's Baptist Church. More...

Thieves attack parking machine
THIEVES caused hundreds of pounds of damage early this morning (Wednesday, April 28th) when they smashed their way into a parking ticket machine on Burnham seafront. The machine was on The Esplanade, south of the entrance to Burnham Holiday Village, and was badly damaged. More...

Shadow Minister in pylons visit
SHADOW Secretary of State Greg Clark has today visited the site of the proposed giant electricity pylons which National Grid wants to build to connect Hinkley Point and Avonmouth. He was in the Burnham-On-Sea area on Wednesday (April 28th), accompanied by MP David Heathcoat-Amory, to campaign against the pylons. More...

Two injured in multi-car crash
TWO people were rushed to hospital following a multi-vehicle accident on the M5 motorway at Burnham's junction 22 early on Tuesday morning (April 27th). Emergency services were called to the southbound carriageway at 12.14am after a lorry crashed. Two motorists were taken to hospital. More...

25th cold calling zone for town
Exclusive: PLANS to launch Burnham-On-Sea's 25th 'no cold calling zone' in the town have been uneveiled this week. Neighbourhood Watch organisers, working with police and Trading Standards, plan to expand the coverage into the St Marks area over the next few months. More...

Berrow May Fayre this Sunday
ALL the fun of the fair comes to Berrow this Sunday (2nd May) when the village holds its annual May Fayre. Berrow's May Fayre will take place between 12.30pm and 5pm on the Red Road Playing Fields. Last year's event was very well attended and raised over £5,500 for the village hall. More...

Police reassure town over letters
BURNHAM-On-Sea police have this week reassured residents that an anonymous letter which is being dropped through letterboxes, alleging that a paedophile is living in the town, is 'malicious'. Sgt Ian Kennett told Burnham-On-Sea.com: "Some residents in the Burnham Road and Marine Drive area have received the letters in the post stating that a paedophile was living at an address. More...

Car rescue drama on town beach
THE owners of this vehicle got a sinking feeling when their car became stranded on Burnham-On-Sea beach on Monday evening (April 26th) on the first night of their family holiday. The family of three, from Wolverhampton, were on their way to nearby Brean to book in at Pontins holiday camp when they took a detour. More...

'Distressed' river man rescued
BURNHAM-On-Sea Coastguards were called to Brean on Monday afternoon (April 26th) after a man was reported to be in a 'distressed' state on a boat. A lifeboat from Weston-super-Mare was also called to the River Axe at around 4pm and the man was taken off the boat safely. More...

Singer's boost for cancer charity
A BURNHAM-On-Sea singer is set to swap her microphone for running shoes when she takes up a running challenge for charity in June. Gemma Saunders, the vocalist from popular local band 'Man from Funkle', is entered into Bristol's 10 kilometre Race for Life on June 12th. More...

Sanders announces tomato week
GREEN-fingered residents across the Burnham-On-Sea area are being invited to an event dedicated to one of the world's favourite fruits. Sanders Garden World in Brent Knoll will be holding a Tomato Growing Week from Monday May 17th until Sunday May 23rd when a range of tips and advice will be on offer. More...

Age is no barrier for new project
ARMED with wheelbarrows, spades and seeds, this group of Highbridge residents has been busy planting a wildflower meadow. The group were brought together by an 'intergenerational project' called 'The Company of Voices', run by Somerset County Council and the Children and Young People's Partnership. More...

Police called to sudden death
Exclusive: POLICE were called to a Burnham-On-Sea street on Saturday evening (April 24th) to investigate a sudden death at a house. Police and ambulance crews were called to the property in Exeter Close at 8pm after the death of a lady was reported to police. More...

Glass accident shuts part of street
Exclusive: PART of a Burnham-On-Sea town centre street was sealed off by police on Saturday evening (April 24th) amid safety concerns for passing pedestrians. A pane of glass was accidentally smashed at an upstairs flat in Victoria Street, sending shards of glass onto the street and pavements. More...

120 complete Burnham Triathlon
OVER 120 athletes took part in Burnham-On-Sea's Spring Triathlon on Sunday morning (April 25th). The popular 'Super Sprint Triathlon', organised by Burnham Swim and Sports Academy, involved the competitors swimming 250m in the pool, cycling 10km in the town and running 2.5km along the beach and seafront. More...

Burnham fire chief speaks out
Exclusive: BURNHAM-On-Sea's fire chief has this week made a robust defence of the fire service in our area. Burnham Fire Station Watch Commander Dick Solomon, pictured, spoke to Burnham-On-Sea.com following last weekend's rescues of a goat and a horse, which prompted a range of negative feedback. More...

Tai Chi Taster Day raises £400
DOZENS of Burnham-On-Sea residents took part in a Tai Chi taster day on Saturday (April 24th). Over 50 people of all ages flexed and stretched themselves at the event in Burnham Community Centre, which also included displays on holistic therapy and reflexology. More...

Animal exhibition opens in town
A NEW exhibition of animal artwork has opened at a Burnham-On-Sea gallery this week. The display at Sea Breeze in Victoria Street shows the work of twelve artists from Burnham-On-Sea, Bridgwater and surrounding areas. The new exhibition includes Sophie Jones, a textile designer. More...

Students given taste of uni life
A GROUP of Year 12 students at Highbridge's King Alfred School got a taste of university life when they visited Cardiff University last week. The students toured the university accommodation and facilities to get a flavour of independent living and were impressed with what they saw. More...

In photos: Tom King in Burnham
Photo Special: Former Defence Secretary Tom King visited Burnham-On-Sea on Saturday (April 24th) when he joined David Heathcoat-Amory for an election walkabout. Lord King, who was MP for Bridgwater from 1970 until 2001, gave his support to Mr Heathcoat-Amory during his visit to the town. More...

New police priorities are chosen
Exclusive: Tackling speeding, dog fouling and monitoring pubs and clubs in Burnham-On-Sea have this week been chosen as the top priorities for police in the town. The priorities were set by members of the public who attended this week's quarterly police community meeting in the town council's chambers in Jaycroft Road. More...

New dance studio set to open
A NEW dance school which opens in Burnham-On-Sea this weekend is offering a variety of free taster sessions for adults and children. DanceFit has opened its new studio on the Westman's Trading Estate in Love Lane. There's no need to book - just wear suitable clothes. More...

Graffiti vandals target seafront
Exclusive: Vandals have sprayed graffiti across Burnham-On-Sea's jetty and stolen an inflatable life-ring, angering council bosses this week. Sedgemoor District Council's cleaners spent several hours removing the painted messages from the sides of the jetty and parts of the sea wall on Thursday. More...

New arcade plans are approved
Exclusive: PROPOSALS to build a new amusement arcade in Brean have been given the go-ahead by district council planners this week. Brightholme Caravan Park had applied for Full Planning Permission to construct the new arcade on its site in Coast Road in the centre of the village. More...

Esplanade to close for triathlon
PARTS of Burnham-On-Sea seafront and adjoining roads will be closed to traffic on Sunday (April 25th) when the town's spring triathlon is held. The 'Super Sprint Triathlon' will see competitors swimming 250m, cycling 10km and running 2.5km along the Esplanade and the town's beach. More...

Fresh hotel calls on anniversary
RESIDENTS and councillors have this week stepped up their calls for work to begin on developing the former Highbridge Hotel site - exactly two years after a huge fire swept through the property. The remains of the once-proud landmark at the entrance to the town remain clad in scaffolding with no immediate sign of renovation work starting, two years on. More...

Crackdown on anti-social behaviour
BURNHAM-On-Sea police have launched a crackdown on anti-social behaviour in the town following a series of incidents in recent days. Stones and water bombs were thrown at vehicles in Westfield Road, Burnham earlier this week. And two deliberate fires have been set in Highbridge over the last week. More...

Rogue trader warning issued
BURNHAM-On-Sea residents have this week been warned to avoid falling victim to rogue traders who could leave them thousands of pounds out of pocket. It comes after a Burnham-On-Sea homeowner was visited by a group of 'rogue traders' earlier this month who tried to carry out work to replace a roof. More...

Offenders tidy up town seafront
OFFENDERS who have been sentenced by the courts to do unpaid community work have been collecting rubbish along Burnham's seafront and along the River Brue this week. Sedgemoor District Council asked the probation service if they could bring a team to help out in the clean-up operaion. More...

Nursery's new facilities opened
BURNHAM-On-Sea's Mayor was the special guest at the opening of a new outside learning environment at a nursery in the town this week. The Fair Start Nursery recently received a grant from Sure Start and Somerset County Council towards the costs of the new facilities. More...

Sports centre gets £45k revamp
Exclusive: A Highbridge sports centre will officially open its new-look sports hall today (Wednesday, April 21st) following a £45,000 upgrade. The main hall and adjacent rooms at King Alfred Sports Centre have been closed for several weeks while the project to modernise the facilities was completed. More...

Mayor in tree planting ceremony
THE Mayor and Mayoress of Burnham-On-Sea and Highbridge have planted a special tree his week to mark the end of their year in the civic role. Derek and Christine Cooper planted the new sapling in Jubilee Gardens in the centre of Highbridge on Tuesday (April 20th). More...

Car damaged in town centre fire
Exclusive: THIS was the dramatic scene in Highbridge town centre on Tuesday evening (April 20th) when fire crews were called to tackle a 'deliberate' blaze that left a vehicle damaged. A local resident raised the alarm at 8.05pm after a fence was set alight. A Burnham fire crew rushed to Market Street to tackle the blaze. More...

TV's Sooty in Brean this Saturday
TV's Sooty and friends will perform at Brean Leisure Park next Saturday (24th April). Richard Cadell from Children's ITV will lead the performance with Sooty, Sweep and Soo at 3pm in front of a crowd of spectators. The show will be held behind the Farmer's Tavern at the leisure park in the village. More...

Tennis camp is big hit with kids
YOUNG players from a Burnham-On-Sea tennis club have just enjoying a week-long holiday tennis camp. The Avenue Tennis Club’s camp has been hailed a success after attracting the aspiring youngsters. Head coach Vinny Duddy said another will be held in June and people can sign up now to join. More...

Driver 'shaken' after accident
Exclusive: A motorist was left 'shaken' after crashing into a wall and ending up embedded in the side of a shed in Brean on Monday afternoon (April 19th). Police were called to Weston Road at 12.30pm after the single vehicle accident outside Diamond Farm Holiday Park in the resort. More...

Four groups bid to take over TIC
Exclusive: FOUR organisations have come forward to take over Burnham-On-Sea's Tourist Information Centre, it has been announced this week. The four unnamed organisations have submitted formal 'expressions of interest' to the Town Council's working party which was set up earlier this year to find a new group to run the centre. More...

Paddy Ashdown visits Burnham
VINCE Cable, the Deputy leader of the Liberal Democrats, had to postpone his visit to Burnham-On-Sea on Monday (April 19th) due to the continuing air travel problems following last week's eruption of a volcano in Iceland. The MP for Twickenham was due to give his support to local parliamentary candidate Tessa Munt. More...

Lifeboats help stricken yacht
TWO Burnham-On-Sea lifeboats were launched on Sunday night (April 18th) to help a yacht in difficulty. A 26ft yacht had been reported to Coastguards as being disabled with its steering out of action and its keel jammed down. Both Burnham RNLI lifeboats were launched at 7.25pm. More...

TV's Orville coming to Burnham!
TV entertainer Keith Harris is set to bring his puppet Orville to Brean for a night of adult comedy next month. Tickets have gone on sale for the special event, to be held at Brean Leisure Park, on Saturday May 8th. This event will have adult themes and will not be suitable for youngsters. More...

Vince Cable in Burnham today
VINCE Cable, the deputy leader of the Liberal Democrats and its treasury spokesman, will visit Burnham-On-Sea today (Monday, April 19th) during another busy day on the local election campaign trail. The MP will be giving his support to local parliamentary candidate Tessa Munt during a visit to the Oaktree speedway arena from 11.30am to 12.15pm. More...

Local photographers put in focus
OVER 100 photographs went on display when Burnham-On-Sea Camera Club held its second annual photography exhibition on Sunday (April 18th). The popular event, which was held at the BAY Centre in Cassis Close, was opened by Ian Burrage, a presenter on radio station Heart. More...

Goat causes Brean cliff drama
THESE were the scenes at Brean Down on Sunday evening (April 18th) when fire crews were called to rescue a goat that was believed to have become stranded on a cliff edge. After two dog deaths on the steep cliffs during the last month, a walker called out local animal rescue charity Secret World and the fire service amid concern that the goat was stuck on a grassy cliff ledge. More...

53 tractors chug into Burnham
Photo Special: OVER 50 vintage tractors chugged their way through Burnham-On-Sea on Sunday (April 18th) during a fundraising tractor road run that ended on the town's seafront. North Somerset Vintage Tractor Club organised the event from Sandford to Burnham's seafront in aid of BARB. More...

Stranded horse rescued by crews
A HORSE that was trapped up to its neck in two metres of slurry was rescued in the early hours of today (Sunday, April 18th) by fire crews from Burnham-On-Sea, Bridgwater and Taunton. The animal was reported to be in difficulty in Dunwear Lane, Dunwear, near Bridgwater at 11pm on Saturday evening. More...

Town's PACT meeting this week
BURNHAM-On-Sea residents will be able to have their say about policing in the town when a quarterly Partners and Communities Together (PACT) meeting is held this week. PACT meetings give local residents a chance to influence what happens in their area and the meeting will be held on Wednesday 21st April at 7.30pm. More...

Princess event attended by 60
BURNHAM'S Mayor and Mayoress were among 60 people who attended a social evening organised by the town's 'Friends of The Princess Hall' on Saturday (17th April). The event, held at the Princess, gave residents a chance to hear more about the group's strategy. More...

Fire crews tackle heath blaze
FIRE crews from across Somerset, including Burnham-On-Sea, were called to a huge heath fire on the Quantocks on Friday afternoon (April 16th). Fire fighters from Burnham, Nether Stowey, Williton, Bridgwater, Minehead, Glastonbury and Street were sent to Holford Common just after 2pm. More...

Volcano ash spotted by astronomer
Exclusive: A LOCAL astronomy lecturer says this photo of the moon taken through his telescope from Burnham seafront this week shows the quantity of ash and dust in the upper atmosphere following this week's volcanic eruption in Iceland. Greg Dye-Hodge Beardsley, pictured, told Burnham-On-Sea.com how he spotted the material. More...

Election candidates to attend meeting
BURNHAM-On-Sea's three main parliamentary candidates in May's General Election are set to meet for a lively debate in the town. MP David Heathcoat-Amory will answer questions with Tessa Munt and Andy Merryfield at the 'Election Hustings Meeting' on 28th April. More...

Car destroyed by fire in Mark
FIRE fighters from Burnham-On-Sea were called to Mark on Friday evening (April 16th) to extinguish a car blaze. One fire appliance attended the car fire in Blackford Road, Mark at 9.56pm. On arrival, the crew found the car was burnt severely and smoldering and could not be saved. More...

Glasto Festival boss in Burnham
Exclusive: GLASTONBURY Festival organiser Michael Eavis was among the seafront walkers enjoying a balmy evening on Burnham-On-Sea's Esplanade on Friday night (April 16th). The well-known face behind Somerset's pop extravaganza was spotted enjoying a stroll along the town's seafront. More...

Town radio station plan unveiled
Exclusive: A brand new temporary radio station is to be launched in Highbridge in June. Local organisation Somerset Film has applied to OFCOM, the UK's government radio regulator, for a temporary licence to broadcast across the town for two days on June 12th and 13th. Families in and around Highbridge will get the chance to go 'on the air'. More...

Crews tackle 'deliberate' fire
Exclusive: THESE were the scenes in Highbridge on Thursday evening (April 15th) when Burnham-On-Sea fire fighters tackled a deliberate blaze in the town. One fire engine was sent to the rear of the Highbridge Hotel at 7.10pm to extinguish a shed and rubbish fire, which fire crews believe was set alight deliberately. More...

£15k boost for hovercraft appeal
THE fundraising appeal to buy Burnham's new rescue hovercraft has received a major boost this week. A black tie ball held to money towards the cost of buying the craft for BARB raised a huge £15,000. Over 140 people supported the event, held at the Batch Country Hotel. More...

New day jetty permits launched
SEA-going visitors to Burnham-On-Sea can now launch a boat from the town’s jetty without having to buy a year-long launch permit. A brand new day permit has been introduced this month by Sedgemoor District Council to cater for occasional visitors who want to launch vessels such as boats and jet skis from the beach. More...

400 homes planned for Burnham
Exclusive: PROPOSALS to introduce 400 new homes in Burnham-On-Sea over the next two decades have been approved by town councillors this week. They approved the plans contained within Sedgemoor District Council's 'Local Development Framework Core Strategy'. More...

Choral Society seeks new leader
BURNHAM and Highbridge Choral Society is seeking a new musical director. The Society’s long-term Musical Director John Henshaw is stepping down after 15 years in the role and the Society is therefore searching for a replacement to take over the group, which was set up 38 years ago. More...

Shoe scrappage scheme launched!
A BURNHAM-On-Sea shoe shop is offering customers the opportunity to trade in their old shoes and help the Salvation Army. Shickle Shoes in Burnham's High Street is offering £5 off each purchase of Rohde shoes when you bring in a pair of old shoes for recycling. Every suitable pair of shoes will be donated to the Salvation Army to be recycled. More...

Election foul play or vandalism?
Exclusive: Supporters of a parliamentary candidate in Burnham-On-Sea are fuming after signs promoting their party were ripped down and left scattered over pavements in the town this week. Several Conservative Party signs promoting David Heathcoat-Amory were attacked in Berrow Road and the pieces left around the junction with Gore Road. More...

Photos: Dreamscheme planting
YOUNGSTERS at Highbridge's Dreamscheme have been continuing to get creative this week, earning points by making hanging baskets ready for the town's Britain in Bloom entry this summer. 40 young people have attended the sessions and worked with staff from Sanders Garden World at Brent Knoll and Dreamscheme leaders. More...

Police beat surgery next week
BURNHAM-On-Sea police will hold a beat surgery in the town next week when residents will be able to air their views about local community issues. The event will be held at Rectory Stores in Rectory Drive on Monday April 19th from 11am-12pm by Constable Richard Smith, PSCO Peter Williams and PCSO Andy Dancy. More...

Grease film fundraiser at Ritz
FANS of the 1970s musical smash hit film Grease will be heading to Burnham-On-Se's Ritz Cinema next month when a special theme night is held. Burnham fundraiser Keith Mitchell from Winchester Road is organising the Grease film night on May 17th for Scope, a national charity that helps people with cerebral palsy. More...

Two arrests after seafront chase
Exclusive: TWO teenagers have been arrested in Burnham-On-Sea following a dramatic police chase along the town's seafront on Monday (April 12th). Officers were called to The Esplanade to pursue the two teenage boys, who were suspected of being linked to the theft of a car from a local holiday site. More...

27 flats for Burnham garage site
THE site of Burnham-On-Sea's former Tucker's Garage will be converted into two blocks of 27 flats, it was decided by a group of district councillors on Tuesday (April 13th). Despite some concerns about potential traffic issues, the Development Committee gave approval. More...

Beachfront flats plan rejected
RESIDENTS campaigning against controversial plans for a huge block of 13 flats to be built next to Burnham-On-Sea beach were celebrating on Tuesday (April 13th) when councillors rejected the scheme. Proposals to build the three-storey property in Allandale Road were rejected. More...

'Shore up island to stop flooding'
A TOWN councillor has this week called on the Environment Agency to introduce huge new granite boulders on the Western side of Stert Island to protect Burnham-On-Sea from flooding. Councillor Neville Jones told Monday night's Town Council meeting that the island needs to be shored up. More...

Vintage tractors head into town
OVER 40 vintage tractors will chug through the Burnham-On-Sea area this Sunday (April 18th) during a vintage tractor road run that will finish on the town's seafront. North Somerset Vintage Tractor Club's members are holding the event, which will finish at around 12 on The Esplanade. More...

Pensioner to make second jump
A 73-year-old Burnham-On-Sea pensioner is preparing will make his second sponsored parachute jump next month. Malcolm Hill will leap out of a plane on Friday May 28th after a friend, who suffers from Parkinson's disease, was recently refused medical permission to jump, leaving a vacancy for Malcolm. More...

Council thanks regeneration boss
SEDGEMOOR District Council's head of regeneration has this week been formally thanked for playing a 'pivotal role' in securing £159,000 of funding for Burnham-On-Sea's town centre regeneration. Nicola Slawski, Group Manager of Regeneration, was praised for her work as she approcches retirement at the end of this month. More...

In photos: Burnham Aquathlon
DOZENS of athletes of all ages took part in the latest of a series of aquathlons in Burnham-On-Sea on Sunday morning (April 11th). The event, organised by Burnham-On-Sea Swim and Sports Academy, comprised of 1000m swim and 10km beach run, followed by a childrens race. More...

Shock as Christmas lights axed
Exclusive: BURNHAM-On-Sea's town centre will not be illuminated with a Christmas lights display this year due to a major cash shortfall, the town's Chamber Of Trade revealed on Monday evening (April 12th). Geoff Shickle, the Chamber's Chairman, announced the shock news when he appealed to town councillors for funding. More...

Police plan new Burnham Pod
Exclusive: POLICE are considering launching a new police pod in Burnham-On-Sea following the success of the one in Highbridge. Inspector Roger Tolley, pictured, told Burnham-On-Sea.com that he would "greatly like" to launch a similar pod in Burnham. Police have already approached Morrisons in Pier Street. More...

Joan gets £10,000 surprise on TV
Exclusive: A WELL-known Brean resident got a welcome surprise this week when she appeared on BBC's Antiques Roadshow and discovered a family heirloom was worth £10,000. Brean Parish Councillor Joan Jackman was featured in Sunday's episode of the long-running BBC1 series with her 19th century family album. More...

Town crier's wife helps charities
THE widow of Burnham-On-Sea's late town crier has made a special donation to the town's two marine rescue charities this week. Shirley Smith has handed BARB and the RNLI £350 following a collection at the funeral of her husband, Fred, last year. Fred was town crier for 24 years. More...

Camera Club to hold exhibition
BURNHAM-On-Sea Camera Club will be holding its second annual photography exhibition On Sunday April 18th. Dozens of photos will be on display at the BAY Centre in Cassis Close from 10am - 4pm. The event will officially be opened by Ian from Heart FM and the public will be able to vote for their favourite pics. More...

Young tennis player is smash hit
A YOUNG Burnham-On-Sea tennis player is this week celebrating success in a regional tournament. Avenue Tennis Club's Rhiannon Parsons, who also helps with coaching at Burnham's Nathan Edwards Tennis Academy, has won the Under 16 Nailsea Open. It came after a keenly fought match. More...

Yacht towed to safety in river
BURNHAM-On-Sea Coastguards and a lifeboat crew were called out on Sunday evening (April 11th) after a yacht lost power in Bridgwater Bay. The 20ft 'Dreamer' was towed to the safety of Burnham Sailing Club's pontoons in the River Brue by a member of the club shortly after 5.30pm. More...

Town artists help Indian school
DOZENS of art lovers flocked to an exhibition in Burnham-On-Sea on Saturday (April 10th) to help raise cash for a school in India. The 'R-Tex' exhibition at Burnham Baptist Church in College Street raised funds for the Peter Gilliard Memorial School in Rajahmundry, India, which is funded locally. More...

Kids triathlon group launches
A NEW group aimed at creating triathlon stars of the future has been launched in Burnham-On-Sea. Burnham Swim and Sports Academy has started a Junior Triathlon group for children aged 8 to 14. Triathlon is one of the fastest growing sports in the country and involves running, swimming and cycling. More...

Two hurt in Marine Drive crash
TWO people inside this car were injured after a two-car accident in Burnham-On-Sea this afternoon (Saturday, April 10th). Emergency services rushed to the entrance to Burnham Holiday Village in Marine Drive at 4.26pm after the collision between a red Toyota and a silver Ford Escort. Fire crews had to cut the roof off the Toyota. More...

Candidates hit election trail
BURNHAM-On-Sea's MP hit the election trail on Saturday (April 10th) when he went on a walkabout in the town centre. With voters going to the polls across the country in just three weeks, David Heathcoat-Amory met shoppers in the High Street after earlier visiting Brent Knoll. More...

Fire crews tackle hedge blaze
TWO Burnham-On-Sea fire crews rushed to Lympsham on Friday afternoon (April 9th) after a broken power line set a hedgerow alight. One engine from Burnham-On-Sea was initially sent to Bridgwater Road at 2.02pm after a tree was on fire, caused by broken power lines. More...

Stricken jet skier rescued
THIS stricken jet skier was rescued by a Burnham-On-Sea lifeboat crew on Friday afternoon (April 9th) after losing power. Coastguards were called to Burnham beach shortly before 3.30pm after the jet skier, a man from Kidderminster in the West Midlands, raised the alarm when he encountered mechanical problems. More... | Video

Don't lose your right to vote
BURNHAM-On-Sea residents have been warned that time is running out to get themselves registered to vote in May's general election. To vote, residents must appear on the Register of Electors and the last date for applications to get listed is Tuesday, April 20th - which is not far away. More...

Youth groups receive cash boost
TWO Highbridge Youth Groups are celebrating this week after getting a much needed cash boost. County Councillor John Woodman visited the Highbridge Dreamscheme and Highbridge Community Youth Club, presenting cheques to both groups to help them to continue providing youth diversion activities in the town. More...

School's head teacher retires
THE head teacher of Highbridge's King Alfred School has retired after a long career at the school. Staff and pupils have said farewell to Keith Diffey, who retired last week after 15 years at the Burnham Road school. He attended his final governing meeting on March 30th and was handed a photo. More...

4,000 homes hit by power cut
THOUSANDS of homes across the Burnham-On-Sea area were without power on Thursday evening (April 8th), following a major power cut. Western Power Distribution told Burnham-On-Sea.com that a total of 4,177 homes in Burnham, Highbridge and the Berrow area suffered an outage at 7.13pm following a high voltage fault. More...

Free fireworks display tomorrow
A SPARKLING fireworks display will take place above Brean on Saturday night (April 10th) when the resort's Leisure Park holds the first of four free events. The display will get started at 8.30pm, giving visitors an opportunity to enjoy the fun park rides before the display bursts into life. More...

30 new cottages for Berrow park
Exclusive: A BERROW holiday park has this week been granted permission to build a new development of more than 30 holiday cottages. Sandy Glade Holiday Park in Coast Road has won the go-ahead from Sedgemoor District Council to construct 31 holiday cottages, contained within five two storey blocks. More...

MP backs Dreamscheme project
BURNHAM-On-Sea's MP took a brief break from the election campaign on Thursday (April 8th) to support Highbridge Dreamscheme's latest project. David Heathcoat-Amory dropped in at Sanders Garden World in Brent Knoll to visit dozens of young people from the Dreamscheme who were planting up hanging baskets for Highbridge. More...

In photos: Paddy Ashdown visit
PADDY Ashdown, former leader of the Liberal Democrats, was in the Burnham-On-Sea area on Thursday (April 8th) to give his support to the party's local parliamentary candidate, Tessa Munt. Lord Ashdown visited Wedmore to launch his party's local general election campaign in the Wells Constituency. More...

Council defends £50k TIC decision
Exclusive: BURNHAM-On-Sea Town Council's decision to spend £50,000 on keeping the Tourist Information Centre open for the summer season came under attack at the Annual Town Meeting on Wednesday evening (April 7th). Several residents questioned whether the decision was ill-advised. More..

Famed guitarist to play at Ritz
BURNHAM-On-Sea's Ritz Acoustic Club will play host to famed bluesman, guitarist and songwriter Wizz Jones next Thursday, April 15th. One of the original bohemian folkies, Wizz was a key influence on both Eric Clapton and Rod Stewart as well as early folk musicians. More..

Princess to host social evening
BURNHAM-On-Sea's 'Friends of The Princess Hall' group are holding a Cheese and Wine social evening on Saturday 17th April. The event will give local residents the chance to meet, chat and discuss the Friends' strategy with committee members and pledge their support to the group. More..

Highbridge Easter parade in photos
YOUNGSTERS from Highbridge Children's Centre have enjoyed making Easter bonnets and showing their parents their singing skills during a special parade. The nursery children looked colourful in their home-made hats, while their parents enjoyed hot cross buns as they watched on. More...

Man arrested after club break-in
Exclusive: A MAN has been arrested and charged with burglary after breaking into a Highbridge club earlier this week. Police were called to Morlands Social Club at 1.45am on Bank Holiday Monday (April 5th) after the man was spotted entering the building. Officers arrested the man, who is from Weston, and prevented any thefts. More...

£159k compensation claim won
Exclusive: BURNHAM-On-Sea is to receive £159,000 of compensation from the South West Regional Development Agency (SWRDA) following its decision last year not to award the town vital funding towards the modernisation of the town centre. Sedgemoor District Council's Corporate Director Doug Bamsey revealed at the Annual Town Meeting on Wednesday evening (April 7th). More...

Gardeners invited to Cotswolds
KEEN gardeners from the Burnham-On-Sea area are being invited to sign up for a trip to two gardens in the Cotswolds on Monday (April 19th). Sanders Garden World in Brent Knoll is offering people the chance to visit Cerney House Gardens and Batsford, accompanied by a member of its horticultural team. More...

Another dog killed on Brean Down
Exclusive: A FURTHER dog has died this week after falling down the steep cliffs of Brean Down - the THIRD such incident in just a fortnight. Burnham-On-Sea.com learns the two year-old black springer cross cocker plunged to its death on Tuesday (April 7th). The two year-old pet had been walking without a lead on top of the Down. More...

Council acts over beach debris
SEDGEMOOR District Council acted swifted on Wednesday (April 8th) to investigate several sets of rusty metal spikes which emerged out of the sand at the spot where Burnham-On-Sea's beach boating pool was removed last month. Burnham-On-Sea.com visited the site on Wednesday morning and found the debris, pictured. More...

Burnham United Chairman dies
BURNHAM United Football Club is this week mourning the loss of its former chairman, who has died after a fatal heart attack. John Smith, 55, was the chairman of the club last season after previously running the club's bar for many years. The club's members have this week paid their respects. More...

Cider tax U-turn welcomed
CIDER makers across the Burnham-On-Sea area have welcome the government's decision to drop plans for a 10% tax rise on cider following strong opposition across the West Country. Ministers have been forced to rescind the increase, announced in the Budget, due to the election. More..

Join Annual Town Meeting tonight
RESIDENTS of Burnham-On-Sea and Highbridge will be able to quiz town councillors about local matters of concern when the 37th Annual Towns Meeting will be held this evening (Wednesday, April 7th). Starting at 7pm in the Old Courthouse in Jaycroft Road, the meeting will be chaired by the Mayor of Burnham and Highbridge. More...

Objections over chemist plans
Exclusive: TOWN councillors have raised 'strong objections' against plans for a new chemist to be built in Burnham-On-Sea. Burnham Medical Centre had applied for planning permission to construct the new pharmacy on its site in Love Lane - however the scheme has been given a 'thumbs down' by a planning committee. More...

Have your say on nuclear plans
EDF's plans for a new nuclear power station at Hinkley Point will be in the spotlight later this month when public meeting to discuss the proposals will be held in Burnham-On-Sea. The evening event will be held on Thursday 29th April from 4pm – 8pm at Burnham-On-Sea's Princess Hall. More...

Folk duo to perform Mark concert
A POPULAR contemporary folk duo will be entertaining crowds in Mark, near Burnham-On-Sea, this coming weekend. Rising stars Chrissy Mostyn and Rick Pilkington from Blackheart will play a mix of acoustic tunes at Mark Village Hall on Saturday April 10th. Over the last three years the duo have successfully toured across the UK. More...

In photos: Police Pod birthday
THERE were celebrations in Highbridge today (Tuesday, April 6th) when the town's successful police pod marked its first year of operation. Local police officers, members of the blood bikes emergency team, a county councillor and council chiefs were just a few of those present. More...

Historical deeds to be auctioned
Exclusive: A SET of deeds that includes the signature and official seal of a well-known Burnham-On-Sea resident of the 1800s has gone on sale. George Reed's original indenture, dating back to March 1859, covers the sale of a piece of land in Burnham-On-Sea for the princely sum of over £1,000. More...

Election starting gun is fired
THE starting gun for the general election has been fired and Burnham-On-Sea's candidates have today (Tuesday April 6th) stepped up their door-to-door campaigns after Gordon Brown's announcement that the election will be held on May 6th. David Heathcoat-Amory will be defending his long-held seat. More...

Lions Club appeals for walkers
MEMBERS of clubs and charities in the Burnham-On-Sea area which need funding are being invited to pull on their walking boats and rucksacks to take part in a sponsored walk in the Quantocks next month. The fifteenth annual walk is being organised by Burnham-On-Sea Lions Club. More...

Protesters issue fresh challenge
Exclusive: Angry villagers in Berrow calling for a new pavement to be introduced along Coast Road will hold their first protest march of the year next month on May 1st and have issued a challenge to county councillors from across Somerset to join them and see for themselves how dangerous the road is. More...

Brean Subway creates new jobs
Exclusive: FINAL construction work has been completed at Brean's new Subway store, which opened in Brean over the Easter weekend in place of the former Flaming Jaes pub in the centre of the village. Owned by Brean Leisure Park, the store is the first phase of a major overhaul for the site. More...

Busy Easter Day for fire crew
BURNHAM-On-Sea's fire crews were called out to deal with a fuel spill and a car blaze in the town on Easter Sunday (April 4th). One fire engine was called to Technical Street, as pictured here, after a local resident reported a strong smell of fuel. Earlier in the day, two fire engines were called to Berrow Road to tackle a car blaze. More...

Tributes for popular landlord
TRIBUTES have been paid to a popular long-standing Burnham-On-Sea pub landlord who has died this week. Roy Hodge, pictured, was landlord of the S&D in Burnham High Street for more than 20 years until 2007. He died this week following a long struggle with poor health. More...

Bikers in Easter fundraising drive
DOZENS of motorcyclists, some dressed in Easter costumes, took part in a fundraising bike run from Highbridge to Minehead on Easter Sunday (April 4th). Somerset Motorcycle Group oversaw the special event, which started from Highbridge's Bristol Bridge Inn on the A38 in the town. More...

Easter workshop attracts kids
VISITORS to Highbridge's Apex Park took part in a wildlife-themed clay making workshop on Saturday (April 3rd). Led by Burnham-On-Sea artist Margaret Micklewright, the youngsters were encouraged to find natural objects at the park to use for clay modelling throughout the day. More...

CCTV appeal after fuel theft
Exclusive: BURNHAM-On-Sea police have released these CCTV pictures and video of a man they want to speak to following the theft of some fuel from a local petrol station. Officers are keen to identify the man, who may be able to help them with their investigation into the fuel theft at a garage in Brent Knoll. More...

Tributes paid to speedway rider
SUPPORTERS of Burnham-On-Sea's Somerset Rebels speedway team have this week expressed their shock at the news that Paul Fry, a former popular rider, has died at 45. ‘Fryer', as he was affectionately known, quickly won the affections of Rebel fans with his commitment to the club, both on and off the track. More...

Exhibition showcases local artists
MORE than 100 paintings from eighteen local artists were on display at an exhibition in Burnham-On-Sea over the Easter weekend. The town's Community Centre in Berrow Road hosted the three-day show, which was free to enter. Water colours, acryclics and pastels were on show. More...

Fire alert at Highbridge Hotel
FIREFIGHTERS rushed to the Highbridge Hotel on Friday night (April 2nd) after concerns that the building could be alight. One fire engine from Burnham was sent to the property at 10pm, as pictured here, to investigate. A local resident had reported seeing a red glow inside the property. More...

Dog survives new cliff plunge
Exclusive: It certainly turned out to be a 'Good Friday' for this lucky animal after he survived a fall down the cliffs of Brean Down today (April 2nd). Less than a week after a greyhound was killed in a plunge over the same cliffs, a new search had to be mounted for this missing red boxer. More...

Mayor judges Easter competition
BURNHAM-On-Sea's Mayor and Mayoress were the VIP judges at an Easter bonnets competition held in the town on Thursday (April 1st). Derick and Christine Cooper had the task of inspecting the colourful hats of more than 200 children at Burnham Infants School, as pictured in this report. More...

What's on in Burnham at Easter
THERE'S a busy weekend of entertainment lined up across the Burnham-On-Sea area this weekend. Our guide takes you through all the highlights, from a visit by Gilbert The Goose, to live music and a fundraising badger weekend at a local wildlife centre! Read our complete Easter guide. More...

Villagers fill wind farm meeting
ALMOST 100 residents from two villages near Burnham-On-Sea gathered in Puriton on Thursday night (April 1st) when their campaign against a proposed wind farm stepped up a gear. Bridgwater MP Ian Liddell-Grainger was among the crowd of concerned residents at the event in Puriton. More...

Sickness bug hits town care home
Exclusive: A CARE home in Burnham-On-Sea has this week been closed to new admissions after an outbreak of a highly contagious sickness bug. Burnham-On-Sea.com learns that several patients at Frith House in Steart Drive have been affected by Norovirus, which causes violent sicknesss and diarrhoea. More...

Police pod celebrates first year
THE successful police pod at Highbridge's Asda store will be celebrating its first birthday next Tuesday (April 6th). Local police officers, fire crews, members of the blood bikes team and Homes in Sedgemoor are just a few of the agencies who will be attending a special party. More...

'Green' award won by town park
SUPPORTERS of Highbridge's Apex Wildlife Park travelled to Exeter this week to receive a sought-after 'green' award. Apex Park was awarded a 'Planting Places' award by Sustainability South West, which shines the spotlight on the best examples of public, sustainable green areas across the region. More...

£6bn airport planned for barrage
Exclusive: A multi-billion pound regional airport could be built on top of the Severn Barrage next to Brean Down if major proposals unveiled this week get the go-ahead. Welsh entrepreneur Gareth Woodham - the man behind the proposed Severn Lake 'energy causeway' between Brean Down and Lavernock Point. More...

Storm damage clean-up begins
A CLEAN-up operation was underway at Burnham Sailing Club on Wednesday (March 31st) after gale-forced winds and high tides left a trail of damage. The wooden walkway leading onto the pontoons was broken, as pictured, and several boats also slipped their moorings during the bad weather. More...

Emotional farewell for Sheelagh
STAFF, pupils and parents bid a fond farewell to the head teacher of a Highbridge school on Wednesday (March 31st) when a surprise ceremony was held on her final day. The huge crowd gathered in the school's playground to cheer on Beechfield's Sheelagh Aslett on her last trip out of the gates. More...

Inner Wheel marks 60th year
THE 60th anniversary of Burnham-On-Sea's Inner Wheel group was celebrated at a formal dinner on Wednesday (March 31st). The celebratory event was held at Batch Country Hotel in Lympsham, and was attended by 145 guests including many from other clubs and the Rotary Club. More...

Brean cable car plans unveiled
Exclusive: PLANS have been drawn up for a new cable car service to be launched in Brean Down to make it easier for walkers to get to the top. The commercial sevice could come into operation for the start of the 2011 summer season to meet new government guidelines on accessibility. More...