Author: Lesley Webb

MINEHEAD MOTOR CLUB’S EXMOOR CLOUDS EVENT , 2ND NOVEMBER 2025

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Authorisation has been granted for the above motor event to take place on public rights of way within parts of the parishes of Brompton Regis, Exton, Luxborough, Minehead, Timberscombe and Winsford.

The event organiser is Mr Norton Selwood.

The applicant has satisfied this department that all requirements under Section 33 of the Road Traffic Act 1988 have been met regarding insurance, safety, repair of surface should any damage occur, landowner consent, signs and marshalling.

Should you need any further information please do not hesitate to contact either myself, or the applicant.

Regards,

Loren Eldred

Rights of Way Officer

Highways Group

Economic & Community Infrastructure

Somerset County Council

County Hall

Taunton

TA1 4DY

Winter Coat Exchange

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Libraries across Somerset collect thousands of donated coats to help residents stay warm and reduce waste this winter

Somerset Council’s Libraries service is relaunching its Winter Coat Exchange scheme, designed to support the community by providing access to warm coats for anyone in need.

Now in its third year, the scheme has been increasingly successful with 2,470 coats donated and 2,086 taken last winter. The excess donations were given to the charity RAFT – Refugee Aid From Taunton.

The organisation supports displaced people locally and further afield, and works with other local charities / groups supporting a variety of different causes.

Libraries taking part this year include:

The initiative was launched to help people stretch tight budgets that little bit further. The scheme is simple:

  • You can take a coat without making a donation
  • You can donate a coat without taking one
  • All donations must be of good quality and in a clean condition
  • Coats of any shape or size, for adults or children are accepted
  • Donors are asked to hand items directly to a member of staff at one of the participating libraries
  • For more information or to participate in the Coat Exchange scheme, visit:

Cost Of Living Support

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Cost-of-living support available for Somerset residents this winter
A range of support is available to help Somerset residents struggling due to the cost-of living crisis this winter.
Somerset Council is again distributing funds from the Household Support Fund in partnership with local charities and community groups to offer a broad selection of essential free support measures for local people.
The Government has given Somerset Council £6.74m to spend between April 2025 and March 2026. We distribute these funds, called the Household Support Fund, with the aim to provide immediate, practical help during a time when many are facing financial hardship.
Whether it’s food vouchers for children, help with fuel bills, or support for older residents and those with disabilities, the fund ensures that people can access essentials with dignity and ease. It’s not just about crisis support – it’s about preventing deeper struggles, reducing stress, and helping people stay well, warm, and connected through the colder season.
We’ve built this year’s programme around what we know works – thanks to feedback from our partners, data from previous rounds, and the voices of our communities. Here’s a snapshot of what’s coming:
• Free School Meal vouchers during school holidays. Food, fuel, and essential items available through an online portal.
• Emergency grants for crisis situations, hospital discharge support, and council tax relief.
• Specialist advice and outreach from trusted partners like Age UK, Citizens Advice Somerset, and SASP and Thrive.
• Community hubs offering warm spaces, meals, budgeting support, and more.

We’ve made sure the programme is inclusive, with outreach being targeted in areas of deprivation and rural isolation as well as town-centre locations, and support being available both online and in-person to suit all preferences and schedules. Our website provides comprehensive information on the various schemes, eligibility
criteria, and how to apply. All Somerset residents, including individuals and families, are encouraged to explore the support available.
For more information and to access the full range of offers, visit:
http://www.somerset.gov.uk/cost-of-living-support.
Please note that people who do not have access to the internet and wish to access the support available should call 0300 123 2224 and ask for ‘cost of living crisis support’.
For more Information, please contact
Laura Annandale, Head of Service, Early Help – Children and Families Commissioning.
Laura.annandale@somerset.gov.uk