The DWP has confirmed that millions of pensioners will see a sizeable increase in their payments from April 2026, following the government's new figures.

The DWP has now confirmed payments will increase by more than 6% for claimants in April 2026, reflecting September 2025's 3.8% inflation rate, plus the standard allowance increase of 2.3%.

Brits are becoming much more ruthless with their spending, according to a new survey from Moneybox.

Avon and Somerset Police are looking for missing Rosie, May, aged 15, and “wish to hear from anyone who can help us find her”.

This week, we have rounded up photos from Somerset Camera Club members that they have taken over Christmas.

Millions of energy bill payers will see an increase in their prices this weekend, just as some of the coldest days of the winter bring snow and ice weather warnings

What speed triggers a speed camera in UK - motoring experts explain how they work, what the rules are, and if 10% above speed limit exists.

Items sold at Waitrose, Tesco, Lidl, Marks and Spencer, B&M and Poundland and more UK supermarkets have been recalled with “do not eat” warnings in place.

An average of 13 people apply for every one-bedroom property which becomes available on the Homefinder housing register

Burnham-on-Sea Baptist Church has launched a new youth cafe, offering a safe space for young people

Traffic delays have been reported along the M5 Northbound from Junction 20 B3133 Ettlingen Way (Clevedon) to Junction 26 (Wellington).

Somerset fire crews responded to reports of alarms sounding and smoke issuing from an office block on the Hinkley Point C site this morning.

The NHS has announced that families with young children will be offered protection against chickenpox as part of their routine childhood vaccinations.

The BBC has confirmed the full line-up for The Traitors 2026 as the popular BBC show filmed at Ardross Castle in the Scottish Highlands returns.

Dog lovers have been issued a warning about letting their four-legged friends onto the bed with them.

Afluenza, the modern obsession with material excess, is explored by Clinton Rogers, with insights from a village vicar and Dickens’ Ebenezer Scrooge.

This includes a talk by Dennis Coath, who will discuss his career in sports journalism.

Sir Ashley Fox MP has launched a new constituency-wide bus survey to gather residents' views on local bus services.

Struggling to keep New Year’s resolutions? Behavioural science tips for UK readers on setting achievable health, fitness and weight loss goals that last.

Bridgwater has seen many businesses come and go in 2025 over a multitude of reasons - here are seven that closed in the year.

We've made it, bruised, bloodied and possibly a little hungover, to the end of another year in Somerset - and what a year it's been in local politics

Avon and Somerset police warn drivers to "expect to be pulled over" on New Year’s Eve after 243 arrests were made in December for drink/drug driving.

An amber cold health alert has been issued by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), warning of a potential “rise in deaths” across Somerset.

WE have been supporting the St Margaret's Hospice Light Up A Life appeal this Christmas - and as part of this support, we are sharing just some of the dedications made during the festive season.

Before we enter 2026, let's take a look back at some of Bridgwater's biggest news stories from 2025.

YMCA Dulverton Group chief executive Martin Hodgson has been awarded the MBE for outstanding services to communities, children, young people and the homeless and vulnerable.

A 19-year-old man is due to appear in court after being charged with multiple driving offences.

A new case of bird flu has been declared near Bridgwater by the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs.

A woman has been left injured after an incident involving dogs on Christmas Day in Somerset.

The former South West medical director for NHS England, and other key figures working for the trust have all been recognised in the King’s New Year Honours.

A WOMAN who has dedicated 60 years to helping young people has vowed to carry on as president of girl guiding in Somerset after being awarded the MBE.

Discover Somerset's top events this week, from festive pantomimes in Yeovil and Bridgwater to Burnham's Christmas Tree Festival and Taunton's BSO Gala.

Somerset Council is set to show four short films that showcase the services available at Somerset Libraries.

Numerous major transport projects (many backed by central government funding) will be implemented across Somerset over the next 12 months

Gold Star Uniforms in Bridgwater has closed after 18 years of serving the community.

Ultra-processed foods like ready meals and fizzy drinks are linked to obesity, diabetes, and heart disease. Learn about UK health risks and healthier choices.

Somerset councillor Christine Lawrence to be named Honorary Alderwoman for decades of service to West Somerset, honoured by Somerset Council.

Clinton Rogers reflects on prostate cancer recovery, turning 70, and exercise in later life. Read his candid look at ageing, health and keeping fit.

This week, the members of Somerset Camera Club have been taking photos of things that strike them as being Christmassy.

Avon and Somerset Police have revealed the speed cameras in Somerset that have recorded the highest number of speeding drivers within the last year.

Somerset Council has announced that a Severe Weather Emergency Provision will be in place over the festive season.

Local businesses in Bridgwater have expressed concerns that they may face permanent closure due to the controversial Celebration Mile.

These are the Christmas opening times at Asda, Tesco, Aldi, Morrisons, M&S, Lidl and Sainsbury's

Don't get caught out recycling incorrectly this Christmas - how to avoid getting a fine by your local council

All the Christmas Day TV to look forward to on BBC One, BBC Two, ITV1 and Channel 4

Bridgwater weather forecast: Christmas week brings sunny intervals, mild temperatures (highs of 10°C, lows of -1°C) and gusty winds up to 37mph.

Bridgwater Riverview Terrace home for sale at £230,000. Features two double bedrooms, sun room, loft room, large garden, near town centre and M5.

Chalet-style three-bed home Crows Nest in North Petherton for sale at £475,000. Countryside views, ample parking, no onward chain.

Tesco Winter Food Collection donates nearly 17,000 meals to Somerset families in need, supporting Trussell Trust and FareShare food banks amid rising demand.

Councillor Diogo Rodrigues has been asked to resign after allegedly leaving a full council meeting during a minute's silence for deceased councillors