Ilminster reels from spate of vandalism, arson, and theft
Report by Duncan Williams for Pulman's Weekly News
Ilminster residents have been left shocked after a troubling series of incidents rocked the town between the evening of Wednesday, 30th April, and the early hours of Thursday, 1st May 2025.
Among the most concerning acts was the vandalism of a life-saving defibrillator located inside the old phone box in Market Square. The device was found displaced and damaged, prompting the Ilminster Defibrillator Team to launch an appeal for information.
Eleanor Rose, a member of the team, voiced her frustration and concern. “We are appealing for anyone who may have CCTV in the area, heard anything or saw anything suspicious on the evening of 30th April or early hours of 1st May to contact us so we can catch the person who has done this.”
Thanks to a vigilant member of the community, the vandalised defibrillator was quickly located and reported.
A team representative later visited the site to ensure the device was still operational.
While the main unit remains intact, the pads and other essential components will need to be replaced - a repair cost that remains unconfirmed.
“The pads etc need replacing,” Eleanor added. “Luckily, the actual defib itself wasn’t broken.”
The defibrillator vandalism was just one in a string of disturbing acts. At around 5.00am on 1st May, an alleged outdoor arson attack took place near a bench on Frog Lane.
In a separate but potentially connected incident, a fire extinguisher was reported stolen and later found discarded near the children’s slide in Ilminster Recreational Grounds.
All incidents have been reported to Avon and Somerset Police, and a crime reference number has been issued.
The Defibrillator Team is urging anyone with relevant footage or information to come forward, either by contacting them via social media or reaching out directly to the authorities.
The recent events have stirred concern among residents, raising questions about public safety and the protection of community resources. As investigations continue, locals are being asked to remain vigilant and report any suspicious behaviour.
Have you seen or heard anything that could help with the investigation? Contact the Ilminster Defibrillator Team or Avon and Somerset Police with any information.
( Photo: PriMEDIC Heart Save 📸 )