Alex Parnham-Cope

Joshua Bonehill-Paine, a former neo-Nazi imprisoned for antisemitic online material and convicted of harassing Labour politician Luciana Berger, has withdrawn as the Conservative candidate for Crewkerne South in the 2027 Somerset Council elections. He cited the need to rebuild trust with the Jewish community and said he would instead support Kemi Badenoch’s work on antisemitism and radicalisation. Jewish organizations and Liberal Democrat MP Adam Dance criticized the original selection, while Badenoch expressed regret over his withdrawal and said he could advise the Conservative Party’s Culture and Integration Commission.

Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch defended the party’s decision to select Joshua Bonehill-Paine, a former neo-Nazi who was jailed for antisemitic material and convicted of harassing Jewish politician Luciana Berger, as a candidate for Crewkerne South on Somerset Council. Badenoch said he had been rehabilitated and was now active in combating racism and antisemitism, while stressing that the threshold for standing as a Conservative MP would be higher. Berger strongly opposed the selection, citing both his racism and misogynistic views. Bonehill-Paine acknowledged that his past conduct was indefensible and said he had dedicated himself to challenging antisemitism.

The George Ilminster has reduced prices across its drinks and food menus and expanded its daily Happy Hour to help locals afford an evening out during the cost-of-living crisis. The pub is offering pints from £4, wine from £5 and spirits from £3 between 3pm and 5pm daily, alongside £10 burgers on Tuesdays and two portions of fish and chips for £25 on Fridays. The pub says the measures are intended to support customers, create something positive during difficult trading conditions and stimulate the local economy.

Local leaders in Bridgwater responded after Somerset Council received a government Best Value Notice citing weak financial management and a fragile financial position. MP Ashley Fox criticised the Liberal Democrat‑led council for poor performance and declining services, while Bridgwater Town Council reassured residents of its sound finances and backed further devolution of powers. Somerset Council leader Bill Revans acknowledged the seriousness of the warning, emphasising ongoing improvement efforts and the need for accelerated reforms to strengthen finances, governance and service delivery through 2027.