July 2012 Burnham-On-Sea News

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Speedway extension on cards?
HIGHBRIDGE'S Oaktree Arena speedway track is seeking permission to extend the days on which it can hold bike races following a summer of wet weather causing cancellations. Somerset Speedway wants to hold meetings six times a year on another weekday evening besides Fridays. More...

Group plans Clyce judicial review
OVER 50 members of a new campaign group who are striving for a brighter future for Highbridge have this week begun drawing up plans to launch a judicial review into controversial plans for 85 new riverside homes in the town. Members of the 'Fight For Highbridge' campaign group met on Monday. More...

X-Factor group heads to town
A GROUP who performed on ITV's hit talent show The X-Factor will be appearing in Burnham-On-Sea later in August. The Lovettes - who were one of the groups that appeared on the eighth series of the ITV1 show - will appear at The Princess Theatre on August 25th. More...

Cove hosts Morris Men display
BURNHAM-On-Sea's Marine Cove Gardens will play host to a special performance by a group of Morris Men this Thursday (August 2nd). The Chalice Morris Men will be performing in the seafront gardens at 7.45pm for a 30-minute display of their traditional dancing. More...

Crews tackle 'deliberate' blaze
THESE were the scenes at a property in Highbridge last night (Monday) when fire crews battled a blaze at a property that is suspected to have been set deliberately. Two fire crews from Burnham-On-Sea rushed to Grange Avenue at 10.16pm, as pictured, after reports of flames being seen. More...

Couple's Olympic ceremony role
A BURNHAM-On-Sea couple have spoken of their pride at taking part in an historic ceremony to mark the opening of the London 2012 Olympics. Burnham Carnival Chairman Phil New and his wife Jayne travelled to Weymouth at the weekend where Bridgwater Carnival's unique squibbing ceremony took place. More...

Apex Play Day countdown
CROWDS of children and their families are set to descend on Highbridge's Apex Park on Wednesday (August 1st) for a day of fun-filled activities on National Play Day. This year's Play Day will be held between 10am and 3pm and will feature more than 40 activities. More...

MP takes on RSPCA job for day!
BURNHAM-On-Sea's MP has spent a day working with Somerset's RSPCA to find out at first hand the work they do. Tessa Munt joined Chief RSPCA Inspector John Pollock on several calls, discovering what inspectors face when they go about their local work. More...

Police appeal after man dies
A PENSIONER from Burnham-On-Sea has died in hospital following a three-vehicle road crash earlier this month, police have confirmed today (Monday). The collision took place on the A39 at West Quantoxhead at about 9am on Saturday July 14th and the man died last Thursday in hospital. More...

Wind farm 'will hit TV reception'
Exclusive: THOUSANDS of residents in the Burnham-On-Sea area will face TV reception problems if a controversial wind farm is built, campaigners have claimed this week. Energy firm Broadview wants to construct four 130-metre tall wind turbines - each as tall as Brent Knoll - on land south of Rooksbridge. More...

Cardboard waste warning
HOUSEHOLDERS in the Burnham-On-Sea area have this week been urged not to put out too much cardboard with their kerbside recycling after a summer surge of bulky waste. Purchases of TVs to watch the Olympics are increasing the amount of cardboard put out. More...

Panto Society presents awards
BURNHAM-On-Sea Pantomime Society has presented awards to its hard-wording members after a busy year for the group. The group, which performed Sleeping Beauty in January, handed out awards to its members during its annual presentation night in Burnham. More...

Town art show draws visitors
A STEADY flow of visitors attended an arts and crafts fair in Burnham-On-Sea on Saturday (July 28th). Organised by Highbridge and Burnham Artists (HABA), the event in the town's Princess Theatre saw a wide range of locally-made crafts and skills on display, as pictured. More...

In photos: Stert Island Swim
DOZENS of swimmers completed Burnham-On-Sea's gruelling Stert Island Swim on Sunday (July 29th), watched by large numbers of spectators. A large crowd lined the jetty and seafront to watch the annual 2,400m sea race from Burnham to Stert and back, which began at high tide at 3.45pm. More...

Lorry spill causes M5 delays
MOTORISTS on the M5 approaching Burnham-On-Sea faced further delays on Saturday (July 28th) after a lorry shed part of its load of straw across the carriageway. One lane of the motorway's northbound carriageway near junction 23 at Highbridge was closed following the mid-morning incident. More...

80 ready for Stert Swim
EIGHTY swimmers will dash into the sea at the start of Burnham-On-Sea's annual Stert Island Swim on Sunday (July 29th). The unique 2,400m race will this year start later than normal at 3.45pm, watched by crowds of onlookers along the seafront and the jetty. More...

Food alert issued to residents
ENVIRONMENTAL health officers have this week issued a warning to shoppers in the Burnham-On-Sea area to be on the look out for a brand of olives that may pose a health risk. Sedgemoor District Council has contacted over 120 food premises about the scare. More...

Crews battle roof blaze
FIREFIGHTERS from Burnham-On-Sea, Taunton, Street and Bridgwater tackled a house fire on Friday morning (July 27th). One fire engine from Burnham was among six called to Holford Road in Bridgwater shortly before 11am, as pictured here, where a roof was alight. More...

Olympics fun held in Berrow
CHILDREN in Berrow have this week been getting in the Olympic spirit by taking part in sporting events. Several members of Berrow Juniors Football Club took part in a football fun day on Tuesday (24th July) to celebrate the start of the London 2012 games. More...

Delays after M5 accidents
TWO accidents on the M5 motorway near Burnham-On-Sea caused lengthy delays for motorists on Friday (July 27th). Police from Burnham were called to a multi-vehicle accident between junction 22 at Burnham-On-Sea and junction 21 at Weston at lunchtime. More...

Hottest day since July 2009
BURNHAM-On-Sea experienced its hottest day for three years on Thursday (July 26th). Temperatures at a weather station in Brent Knoll reached 29.9C (85.8F) shortly before 5pm on Thursday, the hottest day of the year so far - and it was also the hottest since July 2009. More...

Olympic honour for couple
A BURNHAM-On-Sea couple will be taking part in an historic ceremony to mark the opening of the London 2012 Olympics this weekend. Burnham Carnival Chairman Phil New and his wife Jayne, pictured, will be travelling to Weymouth on Saturday where Bridgwater Carnival's tradition of squibbing will be held. More...

Benefit fraud checks begin
RESIDENTS in the Burnham-On-Sea area have this week been warned to ensure they are not incorrectly claiming council tax benefits as a clampdown on fraud begins. Across Sedgemoor, there are approximately 16,000 single people who claim a discount on their bills. More...

Golden day for Dreamscheme
THREE young members of Burnham-On-sea Dreamscheme have this week struck gold in recognition of their community work. Thomas Jefferies, Ellis Crennol and Joe Clark received Gold Award certificates, Dreamscheme hoodies and gold badges in recognition of their efforts at the group. More...

Entries open for 45th show
ENTRIES have opened for Burnham-On-Sea Horticultural Society’s 45th annual show, which is set to take place during August. Green-fingered residents across the Burnham-On-Sea are being invited to show off their gardening and craft skills at the event. More...

YMCA takes over ex school
Exclusive: A FORMER school in the centre of Burnham-On-Sea is set to become a YMCA young person's housing project as part of a £300,000 project announced this week. Sedgemoor district councillors have this week agreed to give financial support for the YMCA to bring the ex La Retraite school back into use. More...

Hedgehog influx at wild charity
BABY hedgehogs suffering from hypothermia or orphaned have been flooding in to Secret World Wildlife Rescue Centre near Burnham-On-Sea during recent weeks. Their plight will be highlighted at the charity’s Hedgehog and Tortoise Open Weekend this weekend. More...

Apex Play Day next week
CROWDS of children and their families are set to descend on Highbridge's Apex Park next Wednesday (August 1st) for a day of fun-filled activities on National Play Day. This year's Play Day will be held between 10am and 3pm and will feature more than 40 activities. More...

Popular exhibition is extended
AN art exhibition in Burnham-On-Sea that is focusing on the work of emerging local artists has proved so popular this week that it is being further extended. The display of work from up-and-coming artists is underway from 10am-3pm each day at The Princess. More...

Megan serves up success
A BURNHAM-On-Sea tennis player has a big smile on her face this week after being selected to represent Somerset. Megan Rundle, 9, from Burnham-On-Sea's Avenue Tennis Club and Mark First School, represented the county in its 9 years and under team this week. More...

Mud walkers spark beach search
HOVERCRAFTS and Coastguards carried out a search of the mudflats at Brean this evening (Wednesday, July 25th) after a group of four people were reported to be in difficulty. Brean's beachwarden alerted Coastguards at 5.15pm after spotting the walkers struggling through waist-deep mud. More...

Stert Island Swim this Sunday
EIGHTY swimmers will dash into the sea at the start of Burnham-On-Sea's annual Stert Island Swim this Sunday (July 29th). The unique 2,400m race will this year start later than normal at 3.45pm, watched by crowds of onlookers along the seafront and the jetty. More...

Second Portas bid is rejected
BURNHAM-On-Sea's hopes of becoming a Portas Pilot town, securing vital regeneration funding have been dashed for a second time, it was announced today (Wednesday, July 25th) - however the town could still gain government support. Local Government Minister Grant Shapps has announced that Burnham is not among the second wave of 15 towns. More...

Calm weather leaves 'smog'
CALM weather conditions led to a thick brown smog building up in the skies over the Burnham-On-Sea area on Tuesday evening (July 24th). The lack of wind and hot summer temperatures caused the thick brown haze to form in the sky, creating unusual sunset scenes. More...

MP backs milk protest farmers
BURNHAM-On-Sea's MP Tessa Munt has this week supported the National Farmers Union's campaign to highlight a drastic reduction in milk prices for dairy farmers and she has called for a reversal in the cuts in Parliament. Up to a 2p per litre cut has been announced. More...

In photos: Centre opens extension
PATIENTS, carers and staff from the Highbridge Medical Centre have celebrated the completion of building works and the official opening of a brand new extension. Mrs Jane Barrie OBE, the Chairman of NHS Somerset, cut a ribbon to mark the official opening of the extension. More...

Minibus blaze causes M5 delays
MOTORISTS faced long queues on the M5 between Burnham-On-Sea and Bridgwater on Tuesday evening (July 24th) after a minibus fire. Two fire appliances from Bridgwater and Burnham-On-Sea were called to the scene at 4.56pm and fought the flames with hose reel jets. More...

Wind farm events start today
A SERIES of roadshows organised by campaigners against a controversial wind farm near Burnham-On-Sea is set to begin today (Tuesday, July 24th). Energy firm Broadview wants to construct four 130-metre tall wind turbines on land at Pilrow Farm near Rooksbridge. More...

Fuel spill brings A38 to a halt
THE busy A38 through Highbridge was partially closed for almost two hours on Monday evening (July 23rd) following a mystery fuel spill. Burnham fire crews were called to the busy Huntspill Road where more than 30 litres of fuel was found across the carriageway, making the surface hazardous. More...

Village turns out for unveiling
A COMMEMORATIVE clock in memory of a popular East Huntspill villager was unveiled during a ceremony in front of hundreds of residents on Saturday evening (July 21st). The new digital clock was launched above the entrance to the village hall, watched by scores of villagers. More...

Talent show to be held in town
BUDDING musicians and entertainers will be able to take part in Burnham-On-Sea's own version of the hit TV talent show Britain's Got Talent later this year. The Princess Theatre and Arts Centre has this week announced it is to hold its first talent show and is seeking competitors. More...

Laptop donation for tech clinic
BURNHAM-On-Sea's Lions Club and Moose Lodge have jointly funded the purchase of a new laptop computer at a technology clinic in the town. The Burnham Area Youth Centre holds two weekly technology clinics on Fridays at 11am and 1.30pm and needed the new kit. More...

Red Arrows thrill spectators
THESE were the colourful scenes on Monday (July 23rd) when the Red Arrows performed a high-flying display during the annual Weston Air Show. The planes roared through the skies, watched by crowds of onlookers on Brean Down and along Weston seafront. More...

Teenager mugged in Berrow
BURNHAM-On-Sea police are appealing for witnesses following the theft of a bike and a mobile phone from a teenager in Berrow. The incident happened on Saturday July 14 between 3.30pm-4pm when a 13-year-old boy was riding his mountain bike along a footpath which runs alongside Coast Road. More...

Lifeboat called to 'Stert object'
ONE of Burnham-On-Sea's lifeboats was launched today (Monday, July 23rd) to investigate a 'stranded object' on Stert Island. Burnham RNLI's Puffin lifeboat was launched at 11.37am amid concerns that the item could have been a liferaft. Crews quickly found it was a builder's bollard. More...

Clothes on cooker cause blaze
TWO fire crews from Burnham-On-Sea rushed to Brean on Sunday evening (July 22nd) after a blaze in a holiday apartment, caused by clothing being left on a hot cooker. Firerfighters were called to Pontins holiday park at 8.24pm after the park's staff raised the alarm. More...

At last! Sun boosts town trade
GOOD weather and the start of the summer school holidays gave traders in Burnham-On-Sea a much-needed boost over the weekend. Temperatures reached 23.7 Centigrade (74F) on Sunday as the town enjoyed non-stop sunshine, bringing visitors flocking to the town and beach, as pictured. More...

In photos: Fire drama at farm
Exclusive: THOUSANDS of pounds of damage was caused to a tractor during a dramatic blaze near Burnham-On-Sea on Saturday (July 21st). A fuel leak caused the tractor to burst into flames, sending flames and thick black smoke into the air in the village of Mark. More...

Youth theatre group to start
A NEW youth theatre group is set to launch in Burnham-On-Sea next month. Burnham-On-Sea and Highbridge (BOSH) Youth Theatre is being run by the Princess Theatre. A launch day is to be held on Tuesday 14th August when newcomers will be welcome. More...

Burnham's lifeboat returns
BURNHAM-On-Sea's RNLI station has this week welcomed home its Atlantic 75 lifeboat, called The Staines Whitfield. At the end of April the lifeboat was sent to the RNLI's lifeboat repair facilities for its regular four-yearly refit and it has now returned to its home town. More...

Kung fu enthusiasts in Berrow
MORE than 65 people from across the country attended Berrow-based Kung Fu group Fei Lung Kwan's annual National Junior Grading competition on Saturday (21st July). Held at Berrow School, 35 students took part in the grading, eight of whom were from Berrow. More...

Holidaymakers in beach scare
FIVE mud-covered Spanish holidaymakers were walked to safety by Coastguards at Brean today (Sunday) after sparking a safety scare on the mudflats at low tide. The five youngsters, pictured, were seen wading through deep mud over a mile from the shore at low tide. More...

Yacht club takes on the world!
THREE members of Brean Land Yacht Club have represented Great Britain at the World Land Yacht Championships this week. The trio - Ron Frewin, Martyn Hale and Caroline Hart - travelled to Cherrieux in France to take part against competitors from across the world. More...

Town's Carnival Queen selected
SIXTEEN year-old Jenna Picton was selected as Burnham-On-Sea's new Carnival Queen on Saturday evening (July 21st). At a packed ceremony in Burnham's Princess Theatre, the King Alfred School student was chosen by a panel of judges to lead this year's carnival parade following a special selection event. More...

Ceremony marks Green Flag
A CEREMONY has been held to mark Burnham-On-Sea's Marine Cove Gardens being handed its first ever Green Flag Award. The seafront gardens - which was re-opened last year after a major refurbishment - formally received the award on Friday afternoon (July 20th). More...

New queen to be chosen today
HIGHBRIDGE and Burnham-On-Sea's new Carnival Queen and Princesses will be chosen at a special event tonight (Saturday). The annual Carnival Queen and Princess Selection Evening will be held from 6.45pm, with judging at 7.15pm, at the Princess Theatre. More...

Emerging artists hold exhibition
A WEEK-long art exhibition which will focus on emerging artists in Burnham-On-Sea is set to start on Tuesday (July 24th). The exhibition of work from up-and-coming artists will take place from July 24th-28th from 10am-3pm each day at The Princess Theatre. More...

Town swimmers make a splash
BURNHAM-On-Sea Swimming Club made a splash when their members took part in a regional contest at a new Olympic-sized pool this week. The club had an invitation from Bristol Penguin Olympic Swimming Club to attend a relay gala at a new 50m pool. More...

Tributes to Olympic coach
TRIBUTES have been paid to a world-renowned fencing coach from Burnham-On-Sea who died in a horror road crash just days after his top student was selected for the Olympic Games. Professor James Perry, 65, who has tutored many of Britain’s top fencers, was killed in a crash near Burnham last Friday. More...

Bravery awards for mud rescue
THREE courageous Burnham-On-Sea police officers who saved the life of a woman from thick mud on Brean beach are to receive special bravery awards to commemorate the Queen's Diamond Jubilee, it has been announced this week. PC Ryan Dinham, PC Adrian Jones and PCSO Peter Williams will receive a new 'Act of Bravery Award'. More...

Doctor's farewell after 30 years
A WELL-known doctor is set to leave Highbridge Medical Centre after three decades in the role. Dr Ciaran Clapham, who was one of the original group of GPs who merged three separate practices to form the current Highbridge practice, is leaving after 30 years in the role. More...

Concert raises £500 for charity
MORE than £500 was raised for Burnham-On-Sea's rescue hovercraft charity during a special community concert this week. Over 150 people attended the Mudlarks Community Choir concert in the town's Catholic Church on Monday in aid of BARB (Burnham Area Rescue Boat). More...

Pupils in Olympic challenge
THIS summer's London Olympics was the theme for a whole week of activities at Highbridge's King Alfred School. During the final days of term before the summer break, the Year 7 and 8 youngsters at Highbridge's King Alfred School took part in a number of events. More...

Cove fun day this Sunday
BURNHAM-On-Sea's Marine Cove Gardens will be celebrating 'Love Parks Week' with a special day of fun this Sunday afternoon (July 22nd). Traditional games, refreshments and garden activities will be held in the seafront gardens between 1pm and 4pm. The Friends will also have a stand. More...

Summer drama school to start
BUDDING dancers, actors and singers will have the chance to join a week-long summer school aimed at developing their skills. The special event is being led by Victoria Roberts from Burnham-On-Sea based Dancefit Somerset and will run from Monday 6th to Friday 10th August. More...

Cycle duo cheered into town
TWO local cyclists who are peddling their way across the UK in memory of a 7-day-old boy who died last year were met by a crowd of friends and supporters as they rode into Burnham-On-Sea this evening (Thursday). Richard Lambert and Craig Tuck were met by loud cheers. More...

Overcrowding fears at new school
Exclusive: FRESH concerns have been raised this week regarding pupil overcrowding at a new £4.6m school being built in Highbridge which is set to open this autumn. The new 420-pupil Churchfield School in Highbridge is scheduled to open in September following a year-long construction project. More...

Pig and donkey racing returns!
THIS month sees the return of Brean Leisure Park's annual pig and donkey race nights, which will be held throughout the summer for local charities. The fundraising race nights will take place in the park's arena every Tuesday evening until August 28th. More...

Lighthouse to appear on signs
Exclusive: NEW-look road signs will soon to be installed at the entrances to Burnham-On-Sea and Highbridge thanks to the work of a local artist. Judith Champion, pictured right, has been commissioned by the Town Council to design the official signs for local roadsides. More...

Town's police pod re-launched
HIGHBRIDGE's community police pod has been re-launched this week ahead of a busy summer of special events. Located in the car park at the town's Asda supermarket, the Pod was initially opened in 2009 and provides advice and community information to visitors. More...

Green Flag delight at gardens
SUPPORTERS of Burnham-On-Sea's Marine Cove Gardens are celebrating this week after the park received its first Green Flag Award. The seafront gardens - which re-opened last year following a major £360,000 four-year refurbishment project - will formally receive the award on Friday (July 20th). More...

Town woman murdered in Egypt
A BURNHAM-On-Sea woman has been murdered in Egypt, according to a national newspaper this week. The Sun says 69 year-old Fran Rossiter died in the city of Hurghada in June. The paper has dubbed her a "Shirley Valentine gran" amid claims that she moved to Egypt to be with her younger partner. More...

Bogus caller alert from police
POLICE have this week warned residents in the Burnham-On-Sea area to beware of bogus callers. It follows several distraction burglaries across the police force area where criminals have gained entry to people's homes by either pretending to be from a water firm. More...

Plaque unveiled in Highbridge
A CEREMONY has been held to unveil a new plaque at a Highbridge monument marking the town's long railway history. A set of bogie wheels was installed next to the Walrow roundabout in Isleport, Highbridge last year and this week's ceremony saw a plaque being unveiled. More...

Teachers up for top awards
TWO teachers from Highbridge's King Alfred School have been nominated for highly prestigious teaching awards. Steve Wood and Headteacher Andy Owen, pictured, have been put forward for 2012 Pearson Teaching Awards. Both teach maths at GCSE level. More...

Two arrests after robbery
POLICE have arrested two people after an armed robbery at a post office near Burnham-On-Sea. Two men aged 28 and 43 have been held following the daylight robbery at Lympsham Post Office at 2.30pm on Friday (July 13th). The men have been arrested on suspicion of robbery and released on bail. More...

Western singer at Princess
COUNTRY and western artist Raymond Froggatt will perform an evening of music in Burnham-On-Sea this Thursday night (July 19th). The Princess Theatre will play host to Raymond Froggatt during his nationwide 'Movin On Tour'. The event will start at 7.30pm. More...

Fashion show to be held
A BURNHAM-On-Sea textile design teacher will be leading a fashion exhibition and show in Weston this weekend. Nicola Stent, who teaches A Level Textile Design at Weston College, is holding the show in the Sovereign Centre this Saturday (July 21st). More...

Council defends hotel silence
Exclusive: SEDGEMOOR District Council has this week defended its decision not to make any comments on the future of the fire-ravaged Highbridge Hotel despite the owner speaking out about his plans for the site. It comes after owner Derek Mead spoke out last week. More...

Petition calls for centre repairs
Exclusive: ANGRY members of a sports centre in Highbridge have launched a petition calling for urgent repairs to be made to the building's damaged roof following the lengthy closure of a squash court. Structural damage to a roof has led to one of the squash courts being put of action for safety reasons. More...

Helen to fight for council seat
LIBERAL Democrats in Burnham-On-Sea have this week announced town councillor Helen Groves will be standing as a candidate during the county council elections next May. Helen, pictured right, has been selected as the Burnham North candidate. More...

Rain fails to stop play for pupils
YOUNGSTERS from Burnham-On-Sea Infants School enjoyed a morning of fun at the town's Avenue Tennis Club despite the weather doing its best to spoil the visit! Teacher David Quint and several teaching assistants walked the pupils from the school to the club. More...

Woman air-lifted to hospital
AN air ambulance was called to a holiday park in Burnham-On-Sea on Sunday afternoon (July 15th) to fly a heart attack victim to hospital. The yellow Devon and Somerset air ambulance, pictured here, landed in the grounds of Burnham Holiday Village shortly after 3pm. More...

Burnham man killed in crash
POLICE have issued an appeal for witnesses following a fatal accident near Burnham-On-Sea on Friday morning (July 13th). As reported here, a 65 year-old man was killed in a two-car accident on the Causeway, between East Huntspill and Woolavington, at 7.20am. More...

Apex arts festival is a success
CROWDS flocked to an outdoor arts festival at Highbridge's Apex Wildlife Park on Saturday (July 14th). The sun shone on the event, called 'Denizens of the Deep', which was run by Highbridge and Burnham Artists and is now in its fifth year and continuing to grow in popularity. More...

Civic Awards for unsung heroes
FOUR residents from Burnham-On-Sea and Highbridge were presented with awards to recognise their work for the community during the town's annual Civic Service on Sunday. Derick Cooper, Ian Jefferies, Mary Lawrence and Pam Lyes received the awards during the service. More...

Dog rescued in Brean cliff drama
Exclusive: THESE were the heart-warming scenes on Brean Down this evening (Sunday) when Burnham-On-Sea Coastguard's Cliff Rescue Team saved a dog stranded on rocks. Charlie, a Border Collie, tumbled down the steep cliffs at Brean Down Fort at arpound 4pm, prompting his desperate owners to call 999. More...

Flower festival attracts crowds
DOZENS of colourful patriotic-themed blooms filled a tiny church on the outskirts of Burnham-On-Sea over the weekend during its annual flower festival, which ended on Sunday (July 15th). A steady flow of visitors flocked to Edithmead Church on both days. More...

One hurt after chemical leak
ONE person was taken to hospital after a chemical leak at a property in Burnham-On-Sea on Saturday (July 14th). Fire crews from Burnham and Bridgwater were sent to Louvigne Close in Burnham at 12.53pm after reports of chemicals leaking, causing gas. More...

Classic car show on Sunday
A FUNDRAISING classic car display in aid of local charities will be held in Brean on Sunday (July 15th). The free 'Classic Car Day and Autojumble' will be held at Warren Farm holiday park's market field from 10am to 4pm when all will be welcome. The event will be include children's entertainment. More...

Daylight robbery at post office
POLICE have begun an investigation following a daylight robbery at a post office near Burnham-On-Sea on Friday (July 13th) - the second this year. Two men entered Lympsham Post Office and demanded cash from staff before fleeing with an unknown quantity of cash. More...

Lifeguards on duty for summer
BURNHAM-On-Sea beach is again in safe hands this summer after the town's lifeguards this week completed an extensive training course in preparation for the holiday season. Amy Sellick, Emma Trunks, Dave Goffe and Chris Bowker have undergone a safety course. More...

Apex Park art festival today
FINAL preparations are underway for a free arts festival taking place today (Saturday, July 14th) at Highbridge's Apex Wildlife Park. Highbridge and Burnham Artists is organising the festival, called 'Denizens of the Deep', from 10am to 4pm, when all are welcome. More...

Motorist, 65, killed in accident
Updated: A motorist has been killed in a two-car accident near Burnham-On-Sea this morning (Friday, July 13th). Fire, police and ambulance crews were called to the Causeway, between East Huntspill and Woolavington, at 7.30am after two vehicles collided and ended up in a ditch. More...

Seafront lights to be removed
Exclusive: DECORATIVE lights along part of Burnham-On-Sea's seafront look set to be removed after a council survey of lighting columns revealed many have become "unstable". Town councillors discussed the future of the illuminations along the North Esplanade during a meeting on Wednesday (July 11th). More...

Delight at excellence award
A SERVICE which supports elderly patients with dementia and their associated memory problems has been awarded a much-coveted accreditation status by the Royal College of Psychiatrists this week. Staff at the Burnham Memory Assessment Service offer support in the area. More...

1,000 roof tiles stolen in town
POLICE have appealed for witnesses to come forward after 1,000 roof tiles were stolen from a building site in Highbridge. The materials have been removed from the site of the former Canal House building, which was bulldozed by property developers during June. More...

Free arts festival tomorrow
FINAL preparations are underway for a free arts festival taking place tomorrow (Saturday, July 14th) at Highbridge's Apex Wildlife Park. Highbridge and Burnham Artists is organising the festival, called 'Denizens of the Deep', from 10am to 4pm when all are welcome. More...

Rhythm and blues in Berrow
A NIGHT of top quality rhythm and blues is in store at a concert in Berrow Village Hall this Saturday night (July 14th). A popular two man band called The Jives will be playing Essex-style blues, R’n’B and rock, alongside other local and regional acts during the evening. More...

60 new homes for hotel site
THE owner of the fire-hit Highbridge Hotel has this week confirmed that a youth hostel and 60 homes are under consideration for the site. In an interview with Burnham-On-Sea.com following our story earlier this week, Derek Mead confirmed the plans. More...

New traffic-free zone for town?
Exclusive: THE pedestrianisation of Burnham-On-Sea High Street and the launch of a new seafront splash park are among a list of proposals unveiled this week to rejuvenate the town. The launch of a traffic-free shopping zone is at the top of a list of town centre improvements proposed by the Town Team. More...

Town medical centre expands
PATIENTS, carers and staff from Highbridge Medical Centre will be celebrating the completion of a major building project next Tuesday (July 17th) with the official opening of a brand new extension. The centre is holding an 'open house' afternoon as part of the celebrations. More...

Music On The Green preview
AN evening of Music On The Green will see the return of The Fabulous Top Mix this weekend in Brent Knoll. Residents and visitors to Brent Knoll will be able to enjoy a night of music from the 1960s through to the 1980s, performed by the band The Fabulous Top Mix. More...

Setback for £250k art project
Exclusive: A bid for £250,000 of European funding to transform part of Highbridge town centre into an 'arts quarter' has been turned down, it was announced this week. Town councillor Phil Harvey had submitted the outline bid for the Market Street funding from Europe. More...

Teen's 22 mile walk for charity
A BURNHAM-On-Sea teenager is seeking sponsors for a 22 mile walk in aid of Help For Heroes. Frank Parker, 16, is preparing for the sponsored trek from the seafront in Burnham-On-Sea to Cheddar Reservoir and back on Saturday August 25th to raise charity cash. More...

New enterprise centre opens
A NEW enterprise centre which aims to help small businesses flourish is to open in Berrow this weekend. The new 'Craft and Enterprise Centre' will be launched on Sunday 15th July at the Berrow Inn. It will offer local crafters and traders a base to sell their goods. More...

Awards for police constables
SEVERAL Burnham-On-Sea Special Constables have received awards during Avon and Somerset Constabulary's annual parade and awards ceremony. There are currently over 400 Special Constables in the force with 113 across Somerset West, including Burnham. More...

Tesco pharmacy concerns
Exclusive: THE multi-million pound expansion of Burnham-On-Sea's Tesco supermarket is set to be completed in mid-November, it has been confirmed this week, despite council concern about some of the new facilities. The supermarket says its expanded store is to open on November 12th. More...

Food shortage at Secret World
A WILDLIFE rescue centre near Burnham-On-Sea has been hit by a food shortage following an influx of animals caused by wet summer weather. Secret World in East Huntspill says it has been inundated with orphans and casualties in recent weeks. Food has been depleted. More...

Burnham braced for heavy rain
Updated: RESIDENTS across the south west - including Burnham-On-Sea - have been warned to expect more heavy rainfall this week. The Met Office has issued a 'yellow warning' and predicted heavy rain will sweep across the area on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday. More...

Mudlarks to hold summer concert
BURNHAM-On-Sea's community choir will be holding a fundraising concert in aid of a town charity on Monday evening (July 16th). The Mudlarks will be holding their summer concert at 8pm in the Roman Catholic Church in Highbridge Road, Burnham, in aid of rescue hovercraft charity BARB. More...

'Unfair' rates re-think urged
BURNHAM-On-Sea's MP has this week called for a re-think to the law that sets "unfair" business rates. Tessa Munt, pictured, wants a change to legislation after being contacted by a local businessman. Publican Steve Wilson says his business rates are unfair. More...

Wildlife fun day this Sunday
SOMERSET Wildlife Trust is holding a family wildlife day at Highbridge's Apex Park this Sunday (July 15th). The event, taking place from 1.30pm-4.00pm, will provide an afternoon of wildlife-themed fun for all ages including guided walks by the lakes and meadows. More...

Portakabin creates 30 new jobs
PORTABLE buildings firm Portakabin has this week said it will be creating 30 new jobs at its new premises in the town. As first reported in February by Burnham-On-Sea.com, the firm is building a new centre on Highbridge's Isleport Industrial Park next to the roundabout at the junction of Bennett Road. More...

Hostel plans for hotel site
Exclusive: SEDGEMOOR District Council has this week declined to confirm or deny rumours that the fire-hit Highbridge Hotel could soon be transformed into a major new youth hostel. Residents say they have heard plans are being drawn up by the building's owner to overhaul the former landmark. More...

Fresh weather warnings issued
RESIDENTS across the south west - including Burnham-On-Sea - have been warned to expect more heavy rainfall this week. The Met Office has issued a 'yellow warning' and predicted heavy, persistent rain will sweep across the area on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday. More...

Choral Society sing at Albert Hall
A GROUP of 11 singers from the Burnham and Highbridge Choral Society travelled to London on Sunday (8th July) to take part in an unforgettable performance at The Royal Albert Hall. The group sang with Britain's largest choral society, The Really Big Chorus. More...

Pirate fun day on town's beach
A PIRATE-themed family fun day is to be held on Burnham-On-Sea beach next month. The free family event is to be held from 12 noon to 6pm on Sunday August 12th on the town's beach next to The Pavillion. Events being planned include a fancy dress competition. More...

Community cash plan attacked
Exclusive: CAMPAIGNERS fighting controversial plans for a major wind farm on the outskirts of Burnham-On-Sea have this week attacked the developer's proposals to introduce a new community fund. As we first reported last week, Broadview has submitted a formal planning application. More...

Queen competition extended
ORGANISERS of the annual competition to appoint this year's Highbridge and Burnham-On-Sea Carnival Queen and Princesses have extended the entry period for the contest following a low number of entries. The search has been extended until Sunday July 15th. More...

'Driver lucky to escape jail'
POLICE have given their reaction to a 44-year-old Highbridge man being found guilty of attempting to pervert the course of justice after trying to outwit police rather than accept a speeding offence. Edward Osgood from Highbridge was caught speeding. More...

Golf club's apology to walker
Exclusive: BURNHAM and Berrow Golf Club has this week issued an apology to a dog walker who says she narrowly avoided being struck by a golf ball while using a footpath across the course. Angie Dibble is keen to warn other dog owners about the dangers of crossing the course at Berrow. More...

Bloom judges in town today
VOLUNTEERS launched a big clean-up operation in Highbridge on Sunday (July 8th) ahead of the town being assessed by judges from the Britain In Bloom competition. Members of Highbridge in Bloom were out in force alongside youngsters from the Dreamscheme. More...

Minis cruise through Burnham
MORE than 20 Minis cruised through Burnham-On-Sea on Sunday afternoon (July 8th) during a fundraising event. The vehicles were taking part in a Charity Mini Show at Brent Knoll's Sanders Garden World which was held in aid of Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance. More...

'Rock and chips' raises £800
ALMOST £800 was raised for charities in the Burnham-On-Sea area during a fundraising concert at the town's Princess Theatre on Saturday (July 7th). A capacity audience attended the 'Rock and Chips' event, organised by Burnham's Moose International Lodge. More...

First aid honours for air cadets
A GROUP of air cadets from Burnham-On-Sea's 290 Squadron have achieved a first aid qualification following an intensive course. The ten cadets gained a St John accredited first aid qualification after being tutored in 25 subjects ranging from severe bleeding. More...

Four in court on drugs charges
FOUR men are to appear in court this month after being charged with drug production offences following the discovery of four separate cannabis cultivation set ups in the Burnham-On-Sea area. Over 300 cannabis plants were seized by local officers in the space of two weeks earlier this year. More...

Arts festival countdown begins
RESIDENTS at nursing homes in Burnham-On-Sea and Brent Knoll have been working with local artists this week to make sea creatures for an arts festival taking place on Saturday (July 14th). The arts festival 'Denizens of the Deep' takes place at Apex Wildlife Park. More...

In photos: Picnic In The Park
BIG crowds took full advantage of good weather on Sunday afternoon (July 8th) to flock to Burnham-On-Sea's Picnic in the Park. Organisers breathed a sigh of relief as sunny weather attracted big crowds to the Manor Gardens for four hours of music. More...

Mayor praises young artists
BURNHAM and Highbridge's Mayor has praised the standard of work on display at an art exhibition in the town. More than 70 art students at Highbridge's King Alfred School displayed their artistic skills at a one-off exhibition of their work on Wednesday evening (July 4th). More...

Heavy rain causes disruption
HEAVY rain has caused disruption across the Burnham-On-Sea area this weekend, flooding roads and causing several events to be cancelled. The annual Sedgemoor Vintage Vehicle Show, which was due to take place this weekend at Highbridge's Isleport Farm, was cancelled on Saturday due to flooding. More...

Flooding cancels vehicle show
THE annual Sedgemoor Vintage Vehicle Show, which was due to take place this weekend on the outskirts of Highbridge, has been cancelled due to flooding caused by heavy rain. Dozens of vintage tractors, classic cars, trucks, motorcycles and stationary engines were to go on display at Isleport Farm. More...

Picnic In the Park to go ahead
ORGANISERS are keeping a close eye on the latest weather forecast as they make final preparations for Burnham-On-Sea's Picnic in the Park, which is due to be held tomorrow (Sunday, July 8th). The free event in Burnham's Manor Gardens is from 12.30pm-5pm. More...

Search for new Carnival Queen
THE search is underway for this year's Highbridge and Burnham-On-Sea Carnival Queen and Princesses. Burnham-On-Sea Lions Club has kicked off the annual hunt for this year's contestants, who will take a leading role in this autumn's carnival, which is on Monday November 12th. More...

Two-car crash at A38 blackspot
Exclusive: POLICE were called to a two-car collision at an accident blackspot on the A38 near Burnham-On-Sea on Thursday evening (July 5th). A Rover and a Ford collided at the entrance to Burnham Moor Lane, with one vehicle ending up in a ditch, as pictured here. More...

Funnel cloud spotted near town
Updated: WEATHER experts have confirmed that a funnel cloud was spotted over Stert Island, near Burnham-On-Sea, on Thursday afternoon (July 5th). Several residents and motorists in the Huntspill area reported seeing the cloud forming, as pictured here. More...

Wind farm plans are submitted
Exclusive: HOTLY-debated multi-million pound plans for a major new wind farm on the outskirts of Burnham-On-Sea have been formally submitted to Sedgemoor District Council by a developer this week. The controversial proposed Pilrow wind farm is to be located on agricultural land adjacent to the M5. More...

Yee haw! Wild West fun day
VISITORS to Brent Knoll will be able to sample a taste of the Wild West this weekend while raising funds for a good cause. The Boots & Saddles Western Re-enactment & Living History Club - which is based in Somerset - will be performing on Sunday (July 8th). More...

Mayor welcomes Germans
A GROUP of Germans from Burnham-On-Sea's twin town of Fritzlar have visited the area this week. The group of 30 people arrived on Saturday, and were treated to a civic reception by Burnham's Mayor, Cllr Ken Smout, in the Town Council Chambers in Jaycroft Road. More...

Late night booze bid concerns
Exclusive: TOWN councillors have this week expressed concerns over proposals by a Highbridge supermarket to begin selling alcohol until midnight every day of the week. Highbridge's Asda store in Springfield Road has submitted a request to Sedgemoor District Council to amend its premises license. More...

BT phone box bought for £1!
Exclusive: A DISUSED phone box near Burnham-On-Sea has been given a new lease of life at the centre of the community after being bought from BT for just £1. West Huntspill Parish Council has taken over the redundant red kiosk in Alstone Gardens and turned it into an information point. More...

Vintage vehicles to go on show
CLASSIC vehicles from the past century will go on show when the annual Sedgemoor Vintage Rally is held this weekend on the outskirts of Highbridge. More than 70 vintage tractors, cars, trucks and bikes will be on show at Isleport Farm on Saturday and Sunday. More...

Appeal after window smashed
POLICE have issued an appeal for information after this shop window in the centre of Burnham-On-Sea was smashed at the weekend. A large pane of glass at Berryman's estate agents in The High Street was shattered between Saturday afternoon and Sunday. More...

Healing weekend preview
CROWDS of visitors from across the UK are expected to visit East Huntspill this weekend when a popular annual Healing Weekend is held at Secret World Rescue Centre. Now in its fourth year, The Healing Weekend will be held on Friday, Saturday and Sunday 8th July. More...

MP wants fairer school funding
BURNHAM-On-Sea's MP Tessa Munt will lead a delegation of representatives from the Somerset Schools Forum and other Somerset MPs to meet the Secretary of State for Education, Michael Gove, later this month. The meeting comes after a constructive meeting last week. More...

Civic award winners unveiled
Full Coverage: THE names of four community-spirited residents in Burnham-On-Sea and Highbridge who are to receive Civic Awards has been announced this week. Derick Cooper, Ian Jefferies, Mary Lawrence and Pam Lyes have this week been officially named by the Town Council as winners of the awards. More...

In photos: Cider music festival
OVER 350 people attended a day-long cider and music festival held in Brent Knoll on Saturday (June 30th). The Cider, Beer and Food Festival featured a free local food festival plus a ticketed evening of quality music and entertainment at Westcroft Cider Farm. More...

TV dance stars head to town
Exclusive: TWO stars of BBC1's hit TV series Strictly Come Dancing and So You Think You Can Dance will be coming to Highbridge next month for several special dancing events. Professional dancer Camilla Dallerup appeared on Strictly Come Dancing for five years. More...

Torch bearer opens school fair
BURNHAM-On-Sea Olympic torch bearer Jason Vickers was the special guest who opened West Huntspill School's annual summer fair at the weekend. The youngsters got a chance to have their photos taken with the torch and meet Jason during the afternoon event. More...

Two arrests after sex assault
POLICE have arrested two people following a sexual assault in Burnham-On-Sea last week. Officers were called to Burnham's Frank Foley Parkway at 2.30pm on Thursday (June 28th) after a woman was attacked by an Asian man aged between 20 and 30 and of a stocky build. More...

Pensioner hurt in town accident
A PENSIONER was taken to hospital following an accident in a car park in Highbridge this morning (Tuesday). Police and ambulance crews were called to Highbridge Medical Centre in Pepperall Road at 9.08am after a blue vehicle was in collision with an elderly lady. More...

No action over 'garish' snack bar
Exclusive: SEDGEMOOR District Council has this week said it will not take action against the owners of an "unauthorised" snack bar on Burnham-On-Sea seafront despite concerns it is out of keeping with the Conservation Area. The Town Council contacted Sedgemoor's planning enforcement team after the brightly-coloured shed was installed. More...

Cyclists raise £2,000 for charity
FOUR Burnham-On-Sea residents raised £2,000 for charity by completing a 100km night cycle between London and Brighton at the weekend. Louise Crew, Toria Taylor, Marcus Medd and Alan Clarke took part in the Moon Ride in aid of Breast Cancer Care. More...

MP calls for arms trade treaty
BURNHAM-On-Sea's MP has this week thrown her weight behind an international campaign calling for a robust, human rights-based arms trade treaty to be negotiated by the United Nations. Tessa Munt took part in an action event in the House of Commons organised by The Control Arms Coalition. More...

Minis to cruise along seafront
SCORES of minis will be cruising along Burnham-On-Sea seafront and through Brean on Sunday afternoon (July 8th) during a fundraising event. The vehicles will be taking part in a Charity Mini Show, being held at Brent Knoll's Sanders Garden World, in aid of Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance. More...

Festival to hold AGM tomorrow
THE organisers of the Highbridge Festival Of The Arts will be holding their Annual General Meeting on Wednesday (July 4th) when all will be welcome to find out more about the long-running event. The meeting will be held at 7.30pm in Highbridge Community Hall. More...

England cricket star visits town
ENGLAND cricket star Marcus Trescothick MBE visited Burnham-On-Sea today (Monday, July 2nd) as part of a nationwide scheme to promote the sport in schools. Staff and pupils at St Joseph's School in Oxford Street welcomed the sportsman as part of a scheme run by the Cricket Foundation. More...

Jubilee medals for BARB crew
SEVERAL volunteer crewmembers at Burnham-On-Sea's rescue hovercraft charity BARB have been presented with Jubilee medals this week in recognition of their work. Burnham and Highbridge Deputy Mayor Cllr Martin Cox handed over the medals outside the seafront hovercraft station. More...

Town regatta sails to success
BURNHAM-On-Sea's annual sailing regatta ended on Sunday evening (July 1st) after a weather-interrupted fortnight. The stormy conditions meant the number of races taking place in Bridgwater Bay over the past two weekends was cut - but there was still some keen competition. More...

Mayor opens Southleigh party
DOZENS of people attended Burnham-On-Sea's Southleigh Kindergarten summer garden party on Saturday afternoon (June 30th). Burnham's Mayor, Cllr Ken Smout, opened the event in Rectory Road and judged a colourful fancy dress competition, pictured. More...

Town singers to star in opera
SINGERS and dancers from Burnham-On-Sea will be taking part in a specially commissioned opera in Somerset later this month. Burnham singers Lewis Coleman, Mary Crowe, Kate Gibson, Fran Bowkett and Julian Plested are making final preparations for the shows near Wedmore. More...

Second Portas bid submitted
BURNHAM-On-Sea has submitted its second bid to become a Portas Pilot town and win a share of regeneration funding. Government Minister Grant Shapps announced in May that Burnham was not among the first 12 towns across the UK to be selected in round one. More...

Soggy end to Berrow fair!
TORRENTIAL rain brought Berrow School's annual summer fair to a soggy end on Saturday afternoon (June 30th). As pictured, a downfall of unseasonally heavy rain flooded the playground and sent most people running for cover - although some children loved it! More...

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