BRIDGWATER, Burnham-on-Sea, and surrounding areas have been revealed as the second happiest places to live in Somerset according to a recent study.

The Office for National Statistics used the results of a national survey which asked people to rate their level of happiness during the 12 months up to March 2023, to give a breakdown of four areas across Somerset.

Figures published by the ONS list Taunton and Somerset West as the top ranking area across the board when compared to Sedgemoor, South Somerset, and Mendip. 

The Sedgemoor area ranks a close second in the happiness ranking with a score of 7.59 out of ten, slightly above the national average of 7.39.

However, Sedgemoor residents experienced some of the most anxiety in Somerset, with a score of 3.23 out of ten, considerably higher than the 2.67 score for Somerset West and Taunton, and topped only by South Somerset's score of 3.33.

The area received a 7.74 rating for feeling that the things done in life are worthwhile ranking third among its county-counterparts but marginally above the national average of 7.73.

The final category of life satisfaction was placed the Sedgemoor area among the lowest in the county, with a score of 7.62, beating only South Somerset's score of 7.61, but still a cut above the national average of 7.45.