June 2012 Burnham-On-Sea and Highbridge News Archive

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Town motorist given jail term
A HIGHBRIDGE motorist has been given a jail sentence after being convicted of perverting the course of justice and other motoring offences. Edward Osgood, 43, of Burnham Road appeared at Taunton Crown Court on Friday (June 29th) where he was sentenced. More...

Crews called to Highbridge fire
TWO fire engines from Burnham-On-Sea rushed to a blaze at a flat in Highbridge on Saturday morning (June 30th). Crews were called to General Higgins House in Southwell Crescent at 10.37am, as pictured, after a kitchen blaze was repoorted by the occupants. More...

Mental health help at hand
THE national charity Rethink Mental Illness is launching a new course during July for people with mental health problems in Burnham-On-Sea. The eight-week course offers a wide variety of activities and is designed to help people build their confidence and help relationships. More...

Sixth form prom held on pier
Photo Special: SIXTH form students from a Highbridge school celebrated the end of their school year with a lavish prom on Friday night (June 29th). The pupils from King Alfred School gathered on Weston Pier for their special night, as pictured here, for an evening of fun. More...

Sexual assaults may be linked
POLICE say two sexual assaults which occurred in Burnham-On-Sea and Bridgwater this week may be linked - and they have issued an appeal for witnesses. 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. More...

Crews called to M5 accident
THREE fire engines were called to an accident on the M5 motorway near Burnham-On-Sea on Friday afternoon (June 29th). Two engines from Burnham and a rescue tender from Weston were called to the accident between junctions 22 at Burnham and 21 at Weston. More...

Burnham dog show on Sunday
BURNHAM-On-Sea's annual RSPCA dog show will be held this Sunday (July 1st). The fundraising dog show and summer fair will be held in Burnham's Manor Gardens from 11am. One of the organisers said: "We hope lots of people will come along and join the fun." More...

Cider and music festival today
FINAL tickets are on sale for a cider and music festival being held in Brent Knoll today. The Westcroft Cider, Beer and Food Festival will be held throughout the day and will feature an exciting free local food festival in the daytime followed by a ticketed evening of music. More...

Appeal after sexual assault
BURNHAM-On-Sea police have issued an appeal for witnesses following an alleged sexual assault in the town on Thursday (June 28th). Officers were called to the town's Frank Foley Parkway at 2.30pm on Thursday afternoon after the woman was attacked by a passer-by. More...

Bloom entries set to close
BUSINESSES and home owners across Burnham-On-Sea are being encouraged to enter the town's annual Burnham In Bloom flower competition, with entries set to close on Saturday (June 30th). This year's competition has sixteen categories to enter for individuals and businesses. More...

Councillor's anger at vandals
A TOWN councillor in Burnham-On-Sea is counting the cost of vandalism this week after a wall outside his home was damaged. Cllr Paul Young who represents Burnham Central and Burnham South, is fuming after vandals targeted his Highbridge Road property. More...

'Dragons' boost town groups
FOUR community groups in Burnham-On-Sea and Highbridge have received financial boosts this week after pitching their ideas to a panel of judges during an event styled on the BBC's hit TV show Dragon's Den. Burnham & District Lions Club held the 'Lions Den' event. More...

Recycling service to expand
THREE more types of rubbish can be included in Burnham-On-Sea householders' kerbside recycling from the start of July, Sedgemoor District Council has announced. Aerosols, textiles and paper kitchen towels have been added to the list of ten materials accepted by the waste collectors. More...

'Priceless' sculpture stolen
Exclusive: POLICE have appealed for witnesses after a huge metal sculpture, weighing more than a ton, was stolen from a garden in Brent Knoll earlier this week. The bronze sculpture of a boat on a wave, pictured here, was removed from outside a property in Brent Knoll on Monday (June 25th) at around 10pm. More...

Fundraising music night
A LIVE music evening will be held to raise funds for Berrow Junior Football Club on Friday (29th June). Local group Combyne Arvester will be playing from 9pm onwards at the Berrow Inn. A special fundraising menu will be offered to visitors during the event. More...

Delays hit wind farm plans
Exclusive: MULTI-million pound proposals for a controversial new wind farm near Burnham-On-Sea will be formally submitted to planners over the next few weeks, quashing rumours that the scheme is about to be shelved due to rising costs and delays. Developer Broadview says it is finalising its plans. More...

New Highbridge group formed
A NEW campaign group seeking a brighter future for Highbridge has been formed by concerned residents this week. Responding to the ongoing blight of the former Highbridge Hotel site and the recent demolition of the iconic FF&F building, residents are expressing their frustration. More...

Tesco consultation underway
BURNHAM-On-Sea Town Team's consultation with residents, businesses and councillors is underway this week on how £300,000 of Tesco funding should be spent in the town centre. The Town Team has been asked to gather ideas and feedback from the community. More...

Fire crews called to Brean blaze
FIRE crews from Burnham-On-Sea rushed to a holiday park in Brean on Wednesday afternoon (June 27th) after a blaze broke out in a chalet. Five fire appliances from Burnham-On-Sea, Weston and Bridgwater were sent to Pontins after reports of the fire at 4.45pm. More...

Town swimmers are winners!
A GROUP of swimmers from Burnham-On-Sea Swimming Club scooped no fewer than 25 medals during a successful competition earlier this week. The youngsters, aged from 9-15, travelled to Hutton Moor Leisure Centre in Weston to enter the Clevedon and Chard Open Meet. More...

Drama group seeks actors
AN award-winning local drama group is seeking local people to join the cast of its next production. The West Huntspill Players are currently reading plays for their November production. Those interested in taking an acting role are welcome to attend two meetings taking place in July. More...

Students to hold art exhibition
STUDENTS at Highbridge's King Alfred School will be displaying their artistic expertise during a special art exhibition on Wednesday (July 4th). King Alfred's art department is hosting the 'inspirational evening of art' from 6pm-8.30pm in the school's main hall. More...

Super-fast broadband next year
BURNHAM-On-Sea is set to be included in British Telecom's roll-out of super-fast broadband next year, it has been announced this week. High-speed fibre broadband will be rolled out to more than 10,000 homes and businesses in Burnham-On-Sea during 2013, the firm said. More...

£500k boost for wildlife plans
A NEW Wildlife and Heritage Education Centre is to be built following a massive £502,600 grant from The Heritage Lottery Fund, it has been announced this week. The new facility is to be built at Secret World Wildlife Rescue Centre in East Huntspill, near Burnham-On-Sea. More...

Police name crash victim
POLICE have named the motorcyclist who died in a fatal accident in Lympsham on Sunday (June 24th). John Ivison, a 76-year-old man from Exeter, died in the collision with a Mercedes car at the busy Lympsham road junction of Brean Road and Rectory Way. More...

Anger as river homes approved
COUNCILLORS and residents have reacted with disappointment to the news that controversial proposals for a new riverside housing development in Highbridge were approved on Tuesday (June 26th), albeit in a downgraded scheme. The proposals for the boatyard site attracted scores of objections. More...

Students head off to Kenya
STUDENTS from the Burnham-On-Sea area are among a group heading out to Kenya to build a school supported by a local Somerset charity. Henry McGwinty from Mark and Ben Ferguson from Axbridge have responded to the Mend the Gap charity’s appeal. More...

Cider music festival countdown
TICKETS are on sale for a cider and music festival being held in Brent Knoll later this week. The Westcroft Cider, Beer and Food Festival will be held on Saturday 30th June and will feature an exciting free local food festival plus a ticketed evening of music. More...

Rotary book shop re-opens
BURNHAM-On-Sea Rotary Club's fundraising book shop has re-opened in the town centre. Members of the club are running the shop at the former Thresher's Wine Shop in College Street from Monday to Saturday between 10am-4pm. Donations of books are being welcomed by the group. More...

River homes decision today
District councillors will decide today (Tuesday, June 26th) whether controversial plans to build 95 new homes next to the River Brue in Highbridge are given the go-ahead. The proposals for the boatyard site near The Clyce include eighty five houses, plus ten flats, and have attracted scores of ojections. More...

Tai chi taster day held in town
DOZENS of residents took part in a tai chi taster event in Burnham-On-Sea's Manor Gardens on Saturday. Bubbling Springs, which is based in Burnham, held a series of demonstrations in the gardens over the course of two hours. Tai Chi Form is sometimes referred to as 'meditation in movement'. More...

Busking vicar raises hall funds!
A BUSKING vicar has helped to raise hundreds of pounds towards much-needed repairs to a church hall's roof in Highbridge. Reverend Sharon Crossman from St John's Church picked up her guitar and played popular tunes outside the church on Saturday to boost funds for the hall's roof. More...

Pylon protest on Crook Peak
BURNHAM-On-Sea's MP Tessa Munt joined campaigners walking along Crook Peak on Sunday (June 24th) to raise awareness of controversial plans by the National Grid to install a 37-mile line of 400,000 volt, 46.5m tall pylons crossing Somerset’s countryside. More...

Mayor presents Jubilee medals
BURNHAM-On-Sea Coastguards received Jubilee Medals from the town's Mayor and bid farewell to a retiring member of the organisation on Friday (June 22nd). Burnham and Highbridge Mayor Ken Smout presented six members of the team with their Jubilee medals. More...

Moose Lodge holistic success
BURNHAM-On-Sea Moose Lodge has raised £3,000 for Devon and Somerset Air Ambulance and other local charities during a fundraising weekend. The lodge's holistic weekend was hailed a successful despite being held over the Jubilee period and poor weather. More...

£2k raised at charity cream tea
A BERROW couple raised a cuppa and £2,000 for charity on Saturday (June 23rd) when they held a fundraising cream tea in aid of Marie Curie Cancer Care. For a fifth year, Steve and Hilary Cox served up hundreds of teas to the general public including MP Tessa Munt. More...

Biker killed in crash with car
A MOTORCYCLIST died in a collision with a car near Burnham-On-Sea on Sunday afternoon (June 24th). Police were called to the busy Lympsham road junction of Brean Road and Rectory Way where a Mercedes car and a motorbike collided at approximately 3.30pm. More...

Popular Coastguard retires
BURNHAM-On-Sea Coastguards bid farewell to a popular member of their group on Friday evening (June 22nd) who has retired from his role. Long-serving Burnham-On-Sea Coastguard team member Dave Ilsley, pictured, has retired after 11 years of active duties in the town. More...

Air ambulance lands in town
A Highbridge woman was airlifted to hospital on Saturday evening (June 23rd) after suffering an accident in which she fell down a staircase. Ambulance crews were called to a property in Highbridge Road shortly after 6pm and, because the lady had a potentially serious head injury, a helicopter was called. More...

Petals scattered to recall tragedy
THE mother of a five year-old girl who died after getting stuck on mudflats at Berrow scattered flower petals at the scene of the tragedy today (Saturday), ten years to the day since it occurred. Five year-old Lelaina Hall died after getting trapped by the incoming tide on the beach on 23rd June, 2002. More...

In photos: Armed Forces Day
TWO ceremonies to mark Armed Forces Day were held in Burnham-On-Sea and Highbridge today (Saturday, June 23rd). Mayor Ken Smout led a flag-raising ceremony outside Highbridge Community Hall, followed by Burnham-On-Sea's ceremony in Pier Street. More...

Town fire crews in blaze drama
Exclusive Photos: THESE were the dramatic scenes in the village of Mark on Friday afternoon (June 22nd) when firefighters from Burnham-On-Sea were called to tackle a blazing car. Firefighters rushed to the residential area of Churchlands in Mark at 4.35pm where the car was alight. More...

Join free tai chi taster sessions
A TAI chi club from Burnham-On-Sea is inviting residents to try out the activity during a free taster event today (Saturday). Bubbling Springs, which is based in Burnham, will be hosting demonstrations in Burnham-On-Sea's Manor Gardens from 2.30pm-4.30pm. More...

Flood-hit streets under water
Exclusive: Streets in part of Burnham-On-Sea were left under several inches of water on Thursday evening (June 21st) after heavy rainfall. Roads and pavements along parts of Maple Drive and Sycamore Close were flooded with up to six inches of water, as pictured, due to long-running drainage problems. More...

Arts festival countdown begins
HIGHBRIDGE and Burnham Artists have begun making 'Denizens of the Deep' for their summer arts festival which takes place next month. The festival will be held throughout the day on Saturday 14th July from 10am to 4pm in the open air at Highbridge's Apex Wildlife Park. More...

BARB to hold special open day
BURNHAM-On-Sea's rescue hovercraft station will be holding a special open day on Saturday (June 23rd) - ten years to the day since a five year-old girl died after getting stuck in mud at Berrow. Five-year-old Lelaina Hall tragically died on the beach at Berrow in June 2002. More...

Time capsule winners named
THE winners of a competition at Highbridge's King Alfred School to design items for a time capsule have been announced this week. As part of the school’s Challenge Day, the Year 8 students were asked to design an item which represents Burnham and Highbridge to be placed in the time capsule which will be opened in the year 2062. More...

Debbie picked as new president
BURNHAM-On-Sea Inner Wheel has this week chosen its new President for the year ahead during a colourful Jubilee party. Debbie Spragg took over the role from Sandra Moon in fine style, on Wednesday evening (June 20th) during the group's Jubilee dinner at Burnham and Berrow Golf Club. More...

Prominent building demolished
Exclusive: FEARS for the safety of pedestrians have led to a familiar building in the centre of Highbridge being demolished this week, making way for a new development of 14 flats. Bulldozers smashed down Canal House next to the roundabout in Market Street, as pictured. More...

Green fears halt £120k park plan
Exclusive: PLANS to build a new £120,000 outdoor sports area in Highbridge's Apex Park have been dealt a setback this week after the district council said the proposals could harm the park's green environmental status. The Town Council is applying for £100,000 of funding to build a new MUGA (Multi Use Games Area). More...

Warning over fake £20 notes
Exclusive: BURNHAM-On-Sea businesses and shoppers have this week been urged to be on their guard against counterfeit bank notes. Several forged £20 notes have been received by businesses in the town centre - including a High Street shop, a pub and a petrol station. More...

Couple to hold tea fundraiser
A BERROW couple will be raising a cuppa for charity this Saturday (June 23rd) when they hold a fundraising cream tea in aid of Marie Curie Cancer Care. For a fifth year, Steve and Hilary Cox (pictured) will be serving up hundreds of teas to the public from 2-5pm. More...

Van in town car park collision
POLICE were called to a Burnham-On-Sea car park on Tuesday (June 19th) after a van careered through a fence into a garden. The white van smashed through a wooden fence in Burnham's Pier Street car park next to the town's Morrisons supermarket, as pictured here. More...

Young dancers celebrate wins
YOUNGSTERS from across the Burnham-On-Sea area are this week celebrating scooping top awards at the annual Taunton Dance Festival. The Lucy Gunter Dance Centre in Highbridge entered a large group of local students into the popular festival. More...

Resignations hit hospital group
Exclusive: THE Friends Of Burnham-On-Sea Hospital have this week issued an appeal for new volunteers following several resignations. Chairman Tony Deahl told the group's AGM that several members of the group's committee have resigned, citing major NHS changes. More...

River homes meeting tonight
A PUBLIC meeting is to be held in Highbridge this evening (Wednesday) when residents will be able to air their objections regarding a proposed development of 95 new homes. The proposals for the riverside boatyard near The Clyce include eighty five 2, 3 and 4 bed houses. More...

Have your say on £300k windfall
Exclusive: RESIDENTS in Burnham-On-Sea are being invited to have their say on how £300,000 of community cash from supermarket giant Tesco is spent on improving the town centre. The expansion of Burnham's Tesco store in Ben Travers Way involves £300,000 being given to the regeneration. More...

Joe to stand in county election
Exclusive: HIGHBRIDGE and Burnham South Liberal Democrats have this week selected district councillor Joe Leach as their candidate for next year's County Council elections. Joe, 25, has lived and worked in the town all his life, and has been a district councillor for over five years. More...

Forces Day ceremonies in town
BUS services to Berrow Health Campus have been improved following feedback from visitors to the centre. WebberBus has included a new request stop in Berrow within their 15/75 service from Wellington to Weston. First Bus services also stop at Berrow Triangle. More...

Bus service changes in Berrow
BUS services to Berrow Health Campus have been improved following feedback from visitors to the centre. WebberBus has included a new request stop in Berrow within their 15/75 service from Wellington to Weston. First Bus services also stop at Berrow Triangle. More...

TV sports hurt tourism trade
Exclusive: THE Olympics and Euro 2012 are partly to blame for a 15 per cent downturn in Burnham-On-Sea's summer tourist trade, it has been claimed this week. The high number of summer televised sporting events - in addition to poor weather - are leading to a reduction in advance bookings. More...

Wind farm subsidy 'to be axed'
PROTESTERS fighting against plans for a wind farm on the outskirts of Burnham-On-Sea have this week welcomed reports that the government is preparing to scrap all subsidies for onshore wind farms. Reports have claimed the subsidy regime will be phased out. More...

Young town chef honoured
ASPRING Highbridge Chef Brad Edrich has been honoured at Weston College's Excellence in Business Training Awards 2012, celebrating businesses and apprentices. Brad Edrich, 17, of Bristol Road, Highbridge received the Hospitality Learner of the Year Award. More...

Cream teas raise hospice cash
A GROUP of generous Burnham-On-Sea ladies have raised £220 for St Margaret’s Hospice by holding a fundraising tea party. Barbara Fletcher, who organised the 'Great British Tea Party' in her garden, supplied a delicious cream tea which was enjoyed by around 40 people. More...

Brent Knoll restaurant on TV
A RESTAURANT near Burnham-On-Sea was the focus of Channel Five's Restaurant Inspector TV series on Monday evening (June 18th). Fernando Peire, the director of London's world-famous Ivy restaurant, right, visited Ollie's Restaurant next to the A38 in Brent Knoll. More...

£2bn deal to build Hinkley C
EDF Energy has this week named the construction company which has won a £2bn contract to build Hinkley Point C power station, near Burnham-On-Sea, if it gets planning consent. A joint venture, Bouygues/Laing O’Rourke, has been announced as the preferred bidder for the Hinkley Point C contract. More...

It's Neighbourhood Watch Week
NEIGHBOURHOOD Watch Week is being marked in Burnham-On-Sea and Highbridge this week with several events. Police will be at Asda in Highbridge on Tuesday (June 19th) from 10am-noon, offering information and details about running and starting the schemes. More...

Town parking clampdown begins
MOTORISTS who park illegally in Burnham-On-Sea town centre are being warned to expect fines from today (Monday, June 18th) by Somerset County Council's new parking wardens. The council's new civil enforcement officers, pictured here in Burnham, were introduced earlier this month. More...

Berrow Fayre beats weather!
STORMY weather failed to dampen spirits at Berrow's annual summer fayre on Saturday (16th June), when an afternoon of entertainment was enjoyed by large crowds. The popular event was held on the village's Millennium Field off Red Road and was enjoyed by the spectators. More...

Busy summer planned at Cove
A BUSY summer of activities is being planned at Burnham-On-Sea's Marine Cove gardens with a craft fete and promotional events scheduled. A wildlife morning was held at the seafront gardens on Saturday (June 16th) when guided tours were given by Peter Grainger, Ecologist at Sedgemoor District Council. More...

Delays as vehicle overturns
AN overturned vehicle caused traffic disruption on the M5 motorway past Burnham-On-Sea on Sunday (June 17th). Police and fire crews were called to the northbound carriageway, between junctions 22 at Burnham-On-Sea and 21 at Weston, at 12.09pm. More...

Motorist air-lifted to hospital
Updated: A motorist has been air-lifted to hospital following a serious accident which closed a busy road through Burnham-On-Sea on Sunday afternoon (June 17th). Police closed Queen's Drive, as pictured, after the collision between a motorbike and a car on the railway bridge. More...

Food festival plans unveiled
BURNHAM-On-Sea is set to host its first food festival this autumn when scores of food and drink producers from across the West country will gather in the town. Producers of food and drink, restaurants, growers, brewers and farmers will come together for the first Burnham-On-Sea Food and Drink Festival. More...

Outgoing Chairman thanked
MEMBERS and supporters of Burnham-On-Sea's Chamber of Trade have thanked their outgoing chairman after two busy years in the role. Rhonda Mills stepped down during the group's AGM, held at the Somerset and Dorset pub, on Thursday evening (June 14th). She was presented with a gift by members. More...

Police investigate car blaze
Exclusive: POLICE have begun an investigation into a car fire near Burnham-On-Sea this morning (Saturday, June 16th). Firefighters were called to Puriton at 7.18am to find the blazing pink Audi Quattro pictured here in a ditch besides the road. It is thought to be deliberate. More...

Council visits site of 95 homes
COUNCILLORS have this week made a special visit to Highbridge to see for themselves the site where 95 controversial riverside homes are being proposed. Members of Sedgemoor District Council's Development Control Committee, led by Chairman Bob Filmer, visited the boat yard in Clyce Road. More...

Berrow fayre preview
BERROW'S annual village fayre will go ahead today (Saturday, 16th June) as planned despite the forecast of wet weather. Organisers met on Friday afternoon to discuss whether to postpone the event, but they decided to proceed with the event as scheduled. More...

Fundraising ladies night today
A BURNHAM-On-Sea carnival club is holding a fundraising ladies night tonight (Saturday, June 16th) to boost its funds. Hillview Carnival Club said earlier this week that it is being hit by the ever-increasing costs of insurance, fuel and safety regulations and needs more donations. More...

Hinkley crime fears rejected
THE firm behind plans to build a new nuclear power station at Hinkley Point near Burnham-On-Sea has this week denied that the project will bring fresh crime and disorder to the area. Police have warned that the construction could become the focus of major protests. More...

One hurt in five-car M5 crash
A MOTORIST was taken to hospital today (Friday, June 15th) following an accident involving five cars on the M5 at Burnham-On-Sea. Police, fire and ambulance crews were called to the northbound carriageway between Burnham-On-Sea and Weston at 1.30pm. More...

Town theatre receives £20,000
Exclusive: BURNHAM-On-Sea's Princess Theatre has been awarded a funding boost of almost £20,000 which will enable a revamp of its interior to go ahead. Delighted members of the town council's Princess Management Committee have been celebrating the news that £19,970 has been pledged to the theatre. More...

Cider farm hosts music festival
TICKETS have gone on sale for a cider and music festival being held in Brent Knoll later this month. The Westcroft Cider, Beer and Food Festival will be held on Saturday 30th June and will feature an exciting free local food festival plus a ticketed evening of music entertainment at Westcroft Cider Farm. More...

New manager at garden centre
BRENT Knoll's Sanders Garden World has a new manager following the departure of long-running boss Peter Burks. Mr Burks, pictured, has recently taken up a new role of Manager at Jack’s Patch Nursery & Garden Centre in Bishopsteignton, Devon and is now a regional manager. More...

Cars on show for Father's Day
SCORES of vintage and classic motor vehicles will be on display at a free event in Brent Knoll on Father's Day (Sunday, June 17th). The Vintage and Classic Vehicle Display will take place at Sanders Garden World from 10am until approximately 3pm. This is the ninth year that we have hosted the Vintage and Classic Vehicle Display. More...

High winds and rain sweep in
HIGH winds sent this canopy into the air outside a Burnham-On-Sea pub on Thursday (June 14th) as forecasters predict more unseasonal weather for the next couple of days. Strong gusts picked up the canopy at The Railway Inn in the High Street, as pictured, narrowly missing several pedestrians. More...

Mayor praises Olympic rider
Exclusive: Burnham-On-Sea's Mayor has congratulated BMX rider Liam Phillips on being selected to ride for Great Britain at this summer's Olympic Games. The Burnham BMX rider has been chosen to take part in this summer's Olympics despite breaking his collarbone last month. More...

Breeze wins £25k on TV show!
Exclusive: A 22 year-old singer from West Huntspill, near Burnham-On-Sea, is this week celebrating after winning £25,000 on Sky 1's talent show Don't Stop Me Now. Breeze Kilpin scooped the huge cash prize on Sunday night when she was awarded top place on Sky's hit entertainment show. More...

Liam selected for Olympics
BURNHAM-On-Sea BMX rider Liam Phillips has this week been selected to ride for Great Britain at this summer's Olympic Games in London. Liam recently competed in the 2012 BMX World Championships in Birmingham where he became the second fastest man in the world during time trials. More...

Fire crews in Manor Gardens
AT first glance, it appeared that a major fire incident was underway in Burnham-On-Sea's Manor Gardens on Wednesday evening (June 13th), yet in fact there was no need for concern. The two fire engines and rescue Land Rover from Burnham Fire Station were taking part in a training exercise. More...

Fun-packed fayre this Saturday
BERROW'S annual village fayre will be held this Saturday (16th June) between 11am and 4.30pm on the Millennium Field (off Red Road) in the village. The popular event will include a wide range of entertainment, from police dogs to a Zumba display, plus refreshments. More...

Chamber to hold AGM tonight
BUSINESSES in Burnham-On-Sea are being encouraged to attend the AGM of the town's Chamber of Trade this evening (Thursday, June 14th). At the meeting, an update will be given on plans to submit a second bid for Mary Portas funding for the town centre. The proposals are aimed at boosting trade. More...

That 'asda' be good news!
THREE good causes in the Burnham-On-Sea area have this week benefited from a new fundraising scheme at Asda's Highbridge store. The supermarket is encouraging customers to vote for their favorite groups by dropping tokens into collecting boxes - and those that attract the most receive a cash donation. More...

Mass sandcastle contest held!
OVER 280 Scouts, Beavers, Cubs and Explorers from across the district gathered on Burnham-On-Sea beach on Tuesday evening (June 12th) to take part in a mass sandcastle building competition. The youngsters from across Sedgemoor took part in the contest. More...

Roman coin is discovered
Exclusive: A Burnham-On-Sea metal detecting enthusiast has unearthed this ancient Roman coin dating back to the Constantine era from a field outside Highbridge. Morley Howard, pictured right on Burnham beach, made the discovery of the coin - which historians say was minted in AD 322. More...

Tributes paid to Lorraine
TRIBUTES have been paid to a popular Burnham-On-Sea driving instructor and football club treasurer who has died this week. The body of Lorraine Dibble, 49, was found at her home in Burnham on Sunday. Scores of tributes have been paid to her by shocked pupils, friends and family. More...

School parking plans approved
A BURNHAM-On-Sea school's plans to extend its car parking facilities have this week been approval by town councillors. St Andrew's School in Dunstan Road wants to create an extra 18 spaces for vehicles, taking its total spaces from 26 to 44. The land is currently used as grass area at the school. More...

TV star and MP urge support
BURNHAM-On-Sea's MP Tessa Munt has teamed up with TV presenter and Fiona Phillips this week to call for improved support for carers across Somerset. Tessa made the call at the launch of National Carers' Week, which takes place from June 18th until june 24th. More...

Traffic wardens return to town
TRAFFIC wardens returned to Burnham-On-Sea's streets on Monday (June 11th) when the county council took over responsibility for enforcing on-street car parking rules. Somerset County Council has taken over the role from Avon and Somerset Police. More...

MP faces students grilling
BURNHAM-On-Sea's MP Tessa Munt will be among the politicians from the main parties being grilled by sixth form students from Highbridge's King Alfred School this week. The pupils will be taking part in a unique version of 'Question Time' this Friday (15th June). More...

Fearless Guides leap from plane
TWO fearless Guides from Burnham-On-Sea have completed a parachute jump from a plane at 15,000ft to raise funds for a unique trip to Mexico. Beth Lavis and Vicky Simmons undertook the tandem jump at Dunkeswell Airfield in Devon to raise £1,000 for their trip. More...

Lakin scoops flower show award
CROWDS turned out to see displays of roses and sweet peas at a show held in Brent Knoll last weekend. Sanders Garden World provided the venue for the annual Rose and Sweet Pea Show, organised by members of Burnham and Nailsea Horticultural Societies. More...

Plaque unveiled to thank donors
A NEW plaque was unveiled in Highbridge on Monday (June 11th) to formally thank those local people who donated over £16,000 towards the cost of the new town clock. More than 30 people attended the ceremony outside Highbridge Community Centre in Market Street. More...

Fire crews rescue stuck pigeon
BURNHAM-On-Sea fire crews carried out one of their more unusual rescues today (Monday) when they were called to retrieve a stranded pigeon. Two fire appliances from Burnham were sent to Technical Street at 2.30pm after reports that the bird was trapped in netting. More...

Down searched for missing man
A POLICE helicopter and Burnham-On-Sea Coastguards carried out a full search of Brean Down during the early hours of today (Monday) amid concern for a missing person. Coastguards were initially called to Brean Down Fort at 11.45pm on Sunday night (June 10th). More...

Council's plea to dog owners
SEDGEMOOR District Council's Dog Wardens will be marking National Poop Scoop Week this week by handing out leaflets and dog waste bags in Burnham-On-Sea and Highbridge. National Poop Scoop Week aims to encourage dog owners to be responsible and pick up after pets. More...

Club hit by funding shortfall
Exclusive: A Burnham-On-Sea carnival club has suffered a 50 per cent fall in donations due to the difficult economic climate and is planning a series of fundraising events over the summer to try and make up the shortfall. Hillview Carnival Club says the ever-rising cost of insurance, fuel and meeting safety regulations mean that it needs to raise around £12,000 each year. More...

Battle of bands held in Burnham
BURNHAM-On-Sea's first ever Acoustic Battle of the Bands was a great success at the town's Princess Theatre on Friday night (June 8th). Organised by the team behind the annual Burnham FolkFest, the event sought to find up-and-coming new musical talent. More...

Triathlon - photos and results
BURNHAM-On-Sea's first ever Acoustic Battle of the Bands was a great success at the town's Princess Theatre on Friday night (June 8th). Organised by the team behind the annual Burnham FolkFest, the event sought to find up-and-coming musical talent. More...

Fun day raises £600 for charity
HUNDREDS of pounds was raised for two Burnham-On-Sea charities during a special fundraising fun day outside the town's Victoria Hotel on Saturday (June 9th). The Jubilee-themed event began with a guest appearance from Mickey Mouse and included music and entertainment. More...

Arthur, 91, completes 41st triathlon
INCREDIBLE 91 year-old Burnham-On-Sea pensioner Arthur Gilbert, who is the world's oldest triathlete, successfully completed his 41st triathlon today (Sunday, June 10th). Arthur, who carried the Olympic flame through Minehead last month, took part in today's Burnham Sprint Triathlon. More...

Fly tippers warned of £50k fines
Exclusive: SEDGEMOOR District Council has this week warned fly-tippers they face fines of up to £50,000 for illegally dumping rubbish in the Burnham-On-Sea area. It comes just days after items were dumped in Pople's Bow, pictured above, and a large quantity of rubbish was also discarded in Stoddens Lane. More...

Town pub receives RAFA award
BURNHAM-On-Sea's Railway Inn has been presented with a plaque in recognition of its services to the Royal Air Forces Association. Jay Bebbington, the Manager of The Railway, received the award from Brian Mudge of the Burnham-On-Sea and District branch on Friday. More...

Film fans raise cash for BARB
FILM fans have helped raise money for Burnham-On-Sea's rescue hovercraft charity. Pat Scott from the town's Ritz Cinema in Victoria Street has presented £114 to BARB (Burnham Area Rescue Boat) following collections during several charity screenings. More...

Cadets take to the skies
THIS group of Burnham-On-Sea air cadets enjoyed a day to remember on Saturday (June 9th) when they were given a flight in a search and rescue helicopter. The cadets from 290 Squadron Air Cadets were treated to an exhilarating flight in Devon in a Sea King helicopter. More...

Have your say on power lines
NATIONAL Grid has begun a period of consultation to identify parts of land suitable for underground power lines in the Burnham-On-Sea area. The company wants to link the proposed new Hinkley Point C power station with a sub-station at Avonmouth near Bristol. More...

Five arrests after town mugging
Exclusive: Police have arrested five people following an alleged mugging in Highbridge on Thursday evening (June 7th). Police were called to an area near Willet Close, as pictured, at 8.15pm after a teenager said he had been attacked in Sparks Way. More...

Free fireworks display tonight
THE skies above Brean will be lit up with a free fireworks display tonight (Saturday, June 9th) when Brean Leisure Park holds its second display of the year. While there will be no admittance charge, there will be collections on the night for several local charities. More...

Two-day flower festival begins
ROSES and sweet peas will be the focus for a two-day event being held at Brent Knoll's Sanders Garden World this weekend. The centre is holding a Rose and Sweet Pea Show organised by members of Burnham and Nailsea Horticultural Societies on both Saturday and Sunday. More...

BBC and ITV live in Burnham
BURNHAM-On-Sea was featured on two simultanteous live national TV programmes for the first time on Friday morning (June 8th). ITV1's Daybreak visited Burnham's Home Farm Holiday Park for a live segment about tourists who are braving the bad weather and the BBC1's Breakfast also visited the area. More...

Video: 65mph gales batter town
GALE-force winds gusting up to 65mph gave Burnham-On-Sea a battering today (Friday, June 8th). Big waves struck Burnham's sea wall at the height of this morning's tide, pictured. A windsurfer was rescued in stormy seas by Weston's lifeboats from next to Brean Down. More...

Ferry hopes given a boost
Exclusive: PLANS to launch a new commercial passenger ferry service between Burnham-On-Sea and Wales have moved a step closer this week after the Town Council gave its financial backing to the project. At a meeting on Wednesday (June 6th), councillors voted in favour of earmarking £2,500 towards the venture. More...

Dreamscheme to hold fun day
HIGHBRIDGE Dreamscheme will be holding an enrolment fun day on Saturday (June 9th) when youngsters aged 7 and over will be able to join the group. The event will be held between 11am-3pm at the town's Southwell Gardens when all will be welcome, including new leaders. More...

Traffic light flattened in crash
BURNHAM-On-Sea police have appealed for witnesses to come forward following an early morning crash on the town's seafront that left this traffic light flattened. Officers were called to the South Esplanade at around 1am today (Thursday, June 7th) following the incident on the pedestrian crossing. More...

Join 'Brew For The Few' in town
A BURNHAM-On-Sea pub will be hosting a special coffee morning on Friday (June 8th) to raise money for the Royal Air Forces Association. The Burnham branch of the RAFA has organised the 'Brew For The Few' event at The Railway Pub in Burnham High Street from 10.30am-2pm. More...

Body identified as missing man
Exclusive: A coroner has confirmed that the body of a man recovered from a river near Burnham-On-Sea last Friday (June 1st) has been identified as a missing Highbridge man. The body was recovered from a stretch of river off Newbridge Drove in East Huntspill. More...

£250k arts quarter bid completed
Exclusive: A BID for £250,000 of European funding to transform part of Highbridge town centre into an 'arts and crafts quarter' has this week been formally submitted. Town councillor Phil Harvey has worked with Sedgemoor District Council to submit the outline bid from the European Regional Development Fund. More...

Best decorated shops revealed
THE winners of a competition to find the best-decorated Jubilee shop windows in Burnham-On-Sea and Highbridge have been announced. Town councillor Dennis Davey has toured the streets of the two towns over recent days to assess the patriotic displays. More...

Gus joins 1,000 mile bike ride!
BURNHAM-On-Sea's Mayor has this week waved off a group of fundraising bikers and a special dog on a unique 1,000 mile cross-country journey! Gus, the dog, is travelling in a specially-made sidecar during the three-day fundraising ride from Land's End to John O'Groats. More...

Hotel to hold fundraising day
BURNHAM-On-Sea's Victoria Hotel will hold a fundraising 'Jubilee day of mayhem' this Saturday (June 9th). The event will be held outside the town centre hotel in Victoria Street from 1pm-midnight and will include a line-up of music and entertainment for all ages. More...

Severe gales forecast for area
HEAVY rain and gale-force winds are forecast to hit the Burnham-On-Sea area during Thursday and Friday, prompting the Met Office to issue a severe weather warning. A yellow alert has been issued for the whole of the south west region, including Burnham-On-Sea. More...

M5 re-opens after accident
MOTORISTS faced delays on the M5 motorway at Burnham-On-Sea on Wednesday (June 6th) following an accident. A car struck the central reservation and debris was thrown onto the southbound carriageway, leading to its temporary closure while a clean-up took place. More...

Police hunt men after burglary
POLICE are hunting for two men who carried out a distraction burglary in Highbridge yesterday afternoon (Tuesday, June 5th). The burglary occurred at 3.15pm in Grange Avenue when one man distracted the occupant of a home while his accomplice went upstairs and searched the rooms. More...

Roof damage closes church hall
Exclusive: A church hall requires thousands of pounds of repairs after its roof was severely damaged during recent bad weather, forcing it to close until the autumn. St John's Church Hall in Highbridge will remain shut for another three months while repairs to its roof and interior go ahead. More...

Full photo round-up of Jubilee
BURNHAM-On-Sea.com covered scores of Jubilee events across the Burnham area at the weekend. We have compiled a full photo review of a very special weekend of celebrations - from the successful world record bid to the parade and street parties. More...

Commemorative wall unveiled
A COMMEMORATIVE wall has been unveiled in Highbridge's Apex Park to mark the Queen's Diamond Jubilee. Overseen by Burnham-On-Sea Rotary Club and Burnham-On-Sea Dreamscheme, the unique 's-shaped' wall has been constructed next to the park's main car park. More...

New-look landmarks unveiled
CEREMONIES to mark the refurbishment of two landmarks in Burnham-On-Sea have been held over the Jubilee weekend. More than £3,500 was spent by the Town Council on refurbishing the Victorian drinking fountain in Seaview Road and the bandstand in the Manor Gardens. More...

Jubilee fun day attracts crowds
Photo Special: LARGE crowds flocked to a Jubilee Fun Day at Burnham-On-Sea's BAY Centre on Monday afternoon (June 4th). The event, pictured here, saw scores of activities, games and music acts being laid on to mark the Queen's Diamond Jubilee. More...

In photos: Stuck horse rescued
Exclusive: THESE were the scenes when Burnham-On-Sea firefighters rescued a stranded horse from a water-filled ditch on Monday evening (June 4th). One fire crew from Burnham-On-Sea and a Special Rescue Team from Bridgwater were called at 6pm. More...

Street party 'was the biggest'
RESIDENTS of Burnham-On-Sea's The Grove, Marlborough Court and Gardenhurst threw a Jubilee Street party on Monday (June 4th) which is thought to have been the biggest in Somerset. More than 200 neighbours, friends and family gathered in glorious sunshine. More...

Jubilee beacon lit in town and knoll
SPECTATORS lined part of Burnham-On-Sea's seafront to watch the town's Jubilee Beacon being lit as part of a nationwide chain on Monday night (June 4th). There were loud cheers as the beacon was lit opposite Burnham Sailing Club on the other side of the River Brue. More...

Search held for missing person
VOLUNTEERS from BARB and Burnham-On-Sea Coastguard were called away from their Jubilee celebrations today (Monday, June 4th) to search for a suspected missing person at Brean. Crews were called to the beach at 12.45pm after a beach warden discovered a large quantity of clothing. More...

Jubilee celebrations continue!
JUBILEE celebrations are in full swing across the Burnham-On-Sea area and the fun is set to continue on Monday (June 4th). Scores of street parties will be held across the area and several public events are also to be held during the day including beacon lightings. More...

Brent Knoll fete attracts crowds
BRENT Knoll's annual summer fete took on a Diamond Jubilee theme on Saturday (June 2nd) with residents and stallholders dressed in colourful costumes. The spectators - who included Burnham's MP Tessa Munt - were treated to an afternoon of fun and entertainment. More...

Crowds flock to classic cars
OVER 100 vintage vehicles visited Burnham-On-Sea on Saturday (June 2nd) for the 19th annual Vale of Avalon Vintage Vehicle Road Run. Classic cars, bikes, lorries and emergency vehicles went on show in the Pier Street car park after arriving from Glastonbury. More...

Cremony held for clock unveiling
HIGHBRIDGE'S brand new £20,000 town clock has been officially unveiled by the town's Mayor as part of this weekend's Jubilee celebrations. The brand new four-faced structure in the town's Jubilee Gardens has been funded by donations and pledges from local people. More...

Graffiti vandals target hotel
CHEEKY graffiti vandals have painted bunting and a message on the wooden hoardings outside the derelict Highbridge Hotel. The message 'what can I do to make you love me?' has been spraypainted along the length of the hoardings at the front of the hotel. More...

Jet skier rescued on busy night
BURNHAM-On-Sea Coastguards had a busy Saturday evening (June 2nd) after being called to two separate incidents. In the first at 6.55pm, a jet skier got into difficulty when his machine suffered technical difficulties. A Burnham lifeboat was launched. More...

In photos: Hundreds join parade
BURNHAM-On-Sea's Olympic torchbearers led a colourful parade through the town on Saturday (June 2nd) to mark the Queen's Diamond Jubilee. Dozens of representatives from local groups joined the procession, watched by large crowds along the route. More...

New world record set on beach
HUNDREDS of people helped smash the world record for the most sandcastles built in one hour on Burnham-On-Sea beach today (Saturday, June 2nd). An estimated crowd of 500 residents took part in the attempt as part of Burnham's Jubilee celebrations - and, unofficially, a new record of 993 was set. More...

Body of man recovered from river
THE body of a man has been recovered from a river near Burnham-On-Sea following a police search for a missing person today (Friday, June 1st). Burnham-On-Sea.com learns the body of a man, who has not yet been named, was recovered from the River Huntspill in East Huntspill this afternoon. More...

Pupils arrive in style for prom!
A HELICOPTER, a horse and a fire engine were among the more unusual modes of transport used by pupils of Highbridge's King Alfred School to arrive in style at their end-of-term prom tonight (Friday, June 1st). 200 Year 11 pupils flocked to Rookery Manor. More...

In video: Queen's 1958 visit
AS the nation celebrates the Queen's Diamond Jubilee, Burnham-On-Sea.com looks back at the Queen's visit to Burnham and Highbridge on December 5th, 1958. Her Majesty arrived by train at Highbridge Railway Station and travelled to the radio signals station. More...

A38 fire drama caught on camera
A BURNHAM-On-Sea resident has spoken of his shock at seeing a van burst into flames on the A38 near Highbridge this week. Allan Roberts took these photos and video of the blazing vehicle at Dunball on Tuesday evening (May 29th) as he travelled home. More...

Towns unveil Jubilee flowers
FLOWER beds in Burnham-On-Sea and Highbridge have been given Royal-themed makeovers in time for this weekend's Jubilee celebrations. Funded by Burnham and Highbridge Town Council, the flower beds are on the North Esplanade and at Highridge's Apex Park. More...

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