1. Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue (DSFRS)

Reducing the risk of wildfires during dry and hot weather

In recent weeks we have seen dramatic scenes as firefighters from across the country have battled wildfires and worked to protect homes and businesses nearby. DSFRS have also had a busy time (although not to the same levels as elsewhere in the country). DSFRS attended a high number of ‘fires in the open’ in July attending 195 (compared to an average of 148 for the same period over the past four years).

Most wildfires are started by human behaviour – a BBQ, campfire, discarded cigarette, or glass lying on dry ground magnifying the sun’s rays. They can also sometimes start due to a bonfire (which was intended to be controlled) getting out of control.

Please click here to read the full press release.

2. SWT launches Covid Additional Relief Fund

SWT has been allocated Government funding to help businesses which did not benefit from any form of Covid relief in the last financial year. The Council has identified businesses across the district that could meet the criteria and is writing to them.

Anyone who thinks they are eligible should visit the website where details of the scheme and how to apply are available.  Please click here to read the full press release.

3. Exmoor Dark Skies Festival 13 – 30 October

Exmoor’s dark skies are some of the best in the UK. They have minimal light pollution and on a cloudless night you can see literally thousands of stars and astronomical sights such as the Milky Way with the naked eye. In 2011 Exmoor was designated as an International Dark Sky Reserve by the International Dark Sky Association.

Booking for all events of the popular Exmoor Dark Skies Festival is now open. Returning for its sixth year, the late October festival, sponsored by SBA (Somerset Business Agency) CIC, is set to be the biggest ever with over fifty events taking place all over the National Park.

The programme of events has been released online at www.exmoor-nationalpark.gov.uk/stargazing.

4. HM Coastguard Watchet – Beware of the Mud!

On the morning of Monday 8 August, HM Coastguard Watchet’s mud rescue team were tasked to attend Blue Anchor Beach following a 999 call reporting a female stranded in the mud in a specialist mobility wheelchair.

The Coastguard would like to remind anyone visiting our local beaches along the Bristol Channel that the soft sand and mud can be treacherous and not to attempt to cross it, to take notice of the warning signs and where anyone becomes stuck to spread their weight and not struggle.

A 999 call to the coastguard will then allow a rescue response to be initiated.

Don’t encourage anyone to go into the mud as they may also become entrapped.

5. Minehead Bay Festival – Saturday 3 September

The Trust is looking for friendly volunteer marshals to help with their brand-new arts and culture festival on Minehead Seafront.

Minehead Bay Festival will be celebrating Minehead’s local art, culture and wellness scene, featuring activities for all the family from circus performances and entertainment, live music, dance performances, street artists, pro skaters, art and craft activities, sand sculpting workshops and much more.

You can expect a fun day out engaging with the local community and enjoying a great day packed with art and culture! If you would like to volunteer please click here for more information.

6. Volunteers Needed

Could you help and support people in your local community towards work? If the answer is yes, you will need the desire to help others, have general life experiences, as well as the enthusiasm to motivate people and raise their confidence and self-esteem.

The Employment Hubs focus on offering one to one practical support such as CV writing, searching and applying for work, how to deal with online application forms, help with interviews and signposting to other agencies for further help and support.

Please click here to find out more information.

7. Spreading hope on World Suicide Prevention Day

In preparation for this year’s World Suicide Prevention Day on 10 September, SCC’s Public Health team are asking members of the public to share quotes, lyrics or poems that have helped them to get through difficult times in their lives.

Please click here to read the full press release.