The Leamington Observer

A quartet of Green Flags for Warwick district

Wed, 22 Jul 2026 12:00:32 +0100

CHAMPAGNE corks were popped - and then quickly tidied up again - as Warwick District Council celebrated a quartet of Green Flags. Four local parks and green spaces in the district scooped the prestigious award this year, which is the benchmark international standard for publicly accessible parks and green spaces in the United Kingdom and around the world. Leading the way is Jephson Gardens, which celebrates an impressive 20th consecutive year of holding Green Flag status, with the Pump Room gardens marking its fifth successive award. The nature reserves at Crackley Wood and Oakley Wood have secured their ninth and 10th consecutive awards respectively. Both nature reserves are managed in partnership with Warwickshire Wildlife Trust. In other good news, both Jephson Gardens and the Pump Room Gardens have once again achieved Green Heritage Site Accreditation in association with Historic England for the conservation of the historic features within the two parks. WDC's neighbourhood services spokesperson Coun Will Roberts said: “We’re delighted to receive the internationally recognised Green Flag Awards from Keep Britain Tidy once again; this is a fantastic achievement and one that we don’t take for granted. These awards recognise and highlight that local people and visitors to Warwick district are benefitting from green spaces of the very highest quality. “This is thanks to the huge efforts of the council’s green spaces team, contractors (idVerde) and the great partnership we have with the Warwickshire Wildlife Trust as well as the amazing work of the volunteers from the Friends of Oakley Wood and Crackley Wood. “I would also like to recognise the significance of the Green Heritage Site Accreditation for Jephson Gardens and the Pump Room Gardens, which is testament to the huge amount of work and planning that goes on behind the scenes to ensure that the history and beauty of these much-loved public spaces are preserved and showcased for us all to enjoy.”

Bus fares across most of England to be capped at £2 from January - NATIONAL NEWS

Wed, 22 Jul 2026 09:13:33 +0100

Single bus fares across most of England will be capped at £2 from 1 January 2027 under new plans announced by Prime Minister Andy Burnham, with the measure set to remain in place until the end of the year.

The government said the policy is intended to help ease the cost of living by reducing the price of everyday journeys, with many passengers expected to see fares fall by around a third.

The national bus fare cap was first introduced by the previous Conservative government in January 2023 at £2. It increased to £3 following the 2024 general election and is currently due to remain at that level until the end of March 2027. Some areas, including Greater Manchester and London, already operate different fare structures and will not be affected by the new national cap in the same way. The government said the scheme will cost just over £500 million. Around £454 million will be provided through money reallocated from the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero, while approximately £50 million will come from existing Department for Transport funding that had already been allocated to bus services. Ministers said the changes would involve switching some international climate funding from grants to loans. Announcing the policy, Mr Burnham said:

“Good, affordable transport links are an essential. No one should be priced out of those and left behind. “But for too long people have said that cheaper transport isn’t an option. I don’t accept that. I’ve done it before and I will do it again now: a £2 cap on bus fares for millions across the country. “Lower fares will help people get to where they need to, giving them breathing space to help with the cost of living.”

Chancellor John Healey said millions of passengers would benefit from lower fares, adding that the measure had been funded through savings elsewhere in government rather than additional borrowing. Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander said the policy would make everyday journeys “easier and cheaper” and confirmed that the majority of the funding would come from changes to the government’s international climate finance programme. The announcement is the second major cost-of-living measure unveiled by Mr Burnham since becoming Prime Minister, following plans announced earlier this week to remove VAT from domestic electricity bills.

Defence Secretary Sorry After Being Caught Joking About Early Prison Releases - NATIONAL NEWS

Wed, 22 Jul 2026 09:00:28 +0100

Wes Streeting has apologised after he was caught on a hot microphone making light of Labour’s controversial early release scheme, in comments that have reignited anger over the policy among victims’ families.

The Defence Secretary, who returned to Andy Burnham’s Cabinet earlier this week, was overheard on Tuesday telling Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood that the new Justice Secretary, Alex Norris, was now “the enemy” who “wants to let them all out.” The exchange was reported by Metro after it was picked up on camera.

Mr Streeting later said on social media that the comment was not meant seriously, and referred to it as a nod to an old joke between former prime minister Theresa May and the late chancellor Kenneth Clarke. He apologised for any offence caused, saying he recognised the issue was a serious one for many people. Ms Mahmood echoed the sentiment, saying the moment of levity should not be mistaken for a lack of seriousness on her part. Kemi Badenoch, the Conservative leader, criticised the pair, saying it was wrong for ministers to be joking about the early release of criminals while victims and their families continue to live with the consequences of crime. The remarks come at a sensitive time for the government. Under the Sentencing Act, due to take effect in September, around 6,000 prisoners are expected to be released early as ministers attempt to ease overcrowding across the prison estate, a policy that has drawn sustained criticism since it was first announced. Among those who could be affected are two men convicted over the death of Pc Andrew Harper, who was killed on duty in 2019. Albert Bowers and Jessie Cole were jailed for 13 years in 2020 after Pc Harper was dragged more than a mile along country roads when his ankles became caught in a towrope. Both men were 17 at the time of the offence and could now be eligible for release at the halfway point of their sentences, the Ministry of Justice has confirmed. Pc Harper’s mother has said the possibility of early release for her son’s killers feels like an insult to his memory. Mr Norris has faced calls to reconsider the scheme. Asked whether the government was considering exempting rapists and child groomers from early release, a spokesman said only that ministers were focused on public safety and would not comment on speculation about future policy changes.

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Back business is the message to Andy Burnham from Coventry and Warwickshire

Wed, 22 Jul 2026 07:00:00 +0100

ANDY Burnham must back business when he finally picks up the keys to Downing Street. That’s the message from the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce after new figures revealed the economy grew by 0.1 per cent in May. Burnham became Prime Minister on Monday after Sir Keir Starmer’s resignation in June – just two years after winning a General Election. Corin Crane, chief executive of the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, urged the new PM to back business – and the region. He said: “We wish Andy Burnham well as our new Prime Minister. We’re a non-partisan organisation that simply wants the best for our economy, for our businesses and for our region. “Some of the messaging from the new Prime Minister around ‘good growth’ is exactly what we, as a Chamber, stand for. We want businesses to be successful and we want that to have a positive impact in terms of jobs and prosperity for our region and its communities. “So, we want the new PM to look at every way possible to boost growth and look at how we remove some of the cost burdens and red tape that are holding that back. “It’s not an easy task – as we can see from the latest growth figures and global events – but boosting business is the quickest way to securing economic growth. “And, of course, there is how that is spread across the regions. There has been much focus on Manchester and the north in the media but the Midlands must be at the centre of growth and it was great to see the West and East Midlands Mayors take that message to the heart of Westminster just days before the new Prime Minister was installed.” Stuart Morrison, research manager at the British Chambers of Commerce said: “The latest ONS data shows a fragile economy weighed down by geopolitical tensions and domestic cost pressures. “With GDP growing by 0.7 per cent in the three months to May, and only 0.1% in May itself, the new government faces the same growth challenge as its predecessor. “The Iran conflict is having real-world consequences for UK firms. Rising energy prices and shipping disruption are increasing costs and creating uncertainty across the economy. “For most businesses, recent cost rises, including the national insurance hike, are just the tip of the iceberg. BCC analysis shows government-imposed costs on a typical SME have risen by more than 70 per cent in just 10 years. “The impact is clear – business confidence is low, and our latest SME survey shows investment plans at their weakest level since the pandemic. “From the moment Andy Burnham enters Downing Street, he must back business. That means moving quickly to cut the cost of doing business and create opportunities to boost trade, investment and productivity across the economy.”

HS2 engineers install final roof segment of Burton Green tunnel

Tue, 21 Jul 2026 17:00:00 +0100

HS2 engineers have installed the final roof segment on the 700-metre-long Burton Green tunnel. The 16-metre-wide twin-box-shaped tunnel will carry high-speed trains beneath the village of Burton Green, near Kenilworth. The internal wall will separate trains travelling north to Birmingham and south towards HS2’s two London stations in Old Oak Common and Euston. Now structurally complete, engineers and ecologists will turn their attention towards the tunnel’s 500-metre-long ‘green roof’, to ensure the structure blends into the natural landscape. Doug Barnett, senior project manager for HS2 Ltd, said: “With the main civil engineering complete, thanks to the hard work and dedication of the 150-strong team on the ground, we can now begin the next phase of this exciting project. “We look forward to working with local communities to bring the bold design vision for Burton Green tunnel to life, maximising the potential of this new green space.” “A strong focus has been placed on connectivity and access to the new green space for local communities – linking both sides of the village of Burton Green. Once fully complete, the Kenilworth Greenway will be reinstated close to its original alignment. It will run above the new tunnel to provide a link from Balsall Common to Kenilworth, via Burton Green, for walkers, cyclists and horse-riders.” Excavated material from the tunnel is currently being reused for wider landscaping works, in line with HS2’s sustainability commitments. Large-scale planting of native trees and shrubs will provide biodiverse habitats for wildlife and re-establish vegetated connections to Black Waste Wood and Little Poors Wood.
Cromwell Lane, which links both sides of the village, was temporarily diverted during the construction. In October, following the completion of utilities works, it will reopen on its original realignment. Recognising its significance to local communities, throughout the construction phase HS2 also created a temporary route for the Kenilworth Greenway. This starts at the site of the Burton Green Village Hall and then follows the existing field boundaries linking with Berkswell Station. Burton Green tunnel is one of five ‘green tunnels’ being built on the controversial line, which is not set to be operational until 2026. Some 54 kilometres of the 190km track between London and Birmingham will cut through the heart of Warwickshire, with a new station also being built near Birmingham Airport. Swathes of the county’s landscape has already been transformed by work on the line.

Widdecombe ‘Struck With Hammer 21 Times’, Court Told - NATIONAL NEWS

Tue, 21 Jul 2026 14:54:28 +0100

Ann Widdecombe died after being struck on the head with a hammer 21 times, prosecutors told Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday.

Joshua Kerry, a 28 year old administration worker from Rotherham, South Yorkshire, appeared before the court a day after being charged with murdering the former Conservative minister at her bungalow near Haytor, on the edge of Dartmoor in Devon.

Miss Widdecombe, who left the Conservative Party to join the Brexit Party in 2019 before later becoming Reform UK’s spokeswoman for immigration and justice, was found at her home at around 11.40am on July 9, having sustained severe head injuries. Investigators believe she was attacked almost a full day earlier, on the afternoon of July 8. Discovery by gardener The court heard that Miss Widdecombe, 78, was found lying face down on her kitchen floor by her gardener. He had gone to check on her after her personal assistant raised the alarm when the former MP failed to appear for a pre-arranged interview with Channel 5, due to take place shortly before 1pm on July 8. Prosecutor Kashif Malik told the court that the gardener let himself into the property through the front door, which had been left open, on the morning of July 9, and discovered her body. Details of the attack According to the prosecution, Mr Kerry entered Miss Widdecombe’s home and struck her over the head with a hammer 21 times. He is then alleged to have tipped her from her chair onto the floor, taken her wallet, and driven roughly 270 miles back to his home in South Yorkshire. Officers arrested Mr Kerry, who worked in the administration department of a company that installs and repairs lifts, two days after Miss Widdecombe’s body was found. A red Vauxhall Corsa believed to belong to him was also seized as part of the investigation. Appearing in the dock flanked by three prison officers and wearing a grey sweatshirt, Mr Kerry spoke only to confirm his name, date of birth and address. CCTV and doorbell footage Senior District Judge Paul Goldspring was told that officers who attended the scene shortly after midday noticed a CCTV camera mounted in the hallway, pointing towards the kitchen. Footage from the camera showed Miss Widdecombe sitting near the entrance to the room, eating lunch, in the moments before the attack took place. A separate review of her Ring doorbell camera reportedly captured what prosecutors say was Mr Kerry’s red Vauxhall Corsa arriving outside the property. Mr Kerry was remanded in custody and is due to appear at the Old Bailey. Counter Terrorism Policing, which is overseeing the investigation, has said that establishing whether the attack was politically motivated remains an active line of inquiry.

Cash to upgrade three Warwick district schools and SEND provision

Tue, 21 Jul 2026 14:00:57 +0100

SCHOOLS in the district are getting a £2,21 million cash injection to spend on major site upgrades and SEND provision. Warwickshire County Council’s Cabinet approved the funding to deliver significant facility upgrades across three schools in the Southam area and expand crucial Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) resourced provision in Leamington. The approved investment draws heavily on almost £2.18 million of secured developer contributions, ensuring that local infrastructure keeps pace with housing developments. An additional £34,000 is funded directly through the High Needs Capital Allocation. Southam Primary School has been allocated £1.75 million for major site upgrades including new classrooms, intervention spaces, security improvements, and playground enhancements. Southam College has been allocated £364,000 for refurbishment of post-16 facilities, upgraded technology equipment, SEND support hub alterations, and outdoor learning spaces. Bishops Itchington Primary School has been allocated £58,000 to enhance the outdoor play area for the Ladybirds pre-school to support the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) curriculum. Briar Hill Infant School has been allocated £34,000 for internal alterations to increase the SEND resourced provision for communication and interaction needs from six to 10 places. WCC's children and families spokesperson Coun Wayne Briggs said: “Ensuring Warwickshire children can access the right educational provision is a priority for this council. This investment will improve learning environments across these four schools and support them to meet the needs of their pupils and local communities. “I am particularly pleased to see the expansion of specialist resourced provision at Briar Hill Infant School. With demand for SEND support continuing to grow, creating inclusive, purpose-built spaces within mainstream settings is vital to helping children and young people thrive and achieve their full potential.”

Burnham's Energy VAT Cut Announcement Overshadowed by Funding Row - NATIONAL NEWS

Tue, 21 Jul 2026 12:31:47 +0100

Prime Minister Andy Burnham has unveiled his first major policy since taking office, cutting VAT on electricity bills to zero from October 1, but the move was immediately clouded by questions over how it will be paid for.

The measure removes the 5% VAT rate currently applied to household electricity bills, with the government estimating typical savings of around £45 per household per year. Chancellor John Healey said the change would give families some “breathing room on bills.”

The Treasury says the roughly £850 million cost will be met by scrapping the digital ID scheme introduced under former Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, which had been projected to cost around £600 million a year over three years, according to figures. However, Darren Jones, who lost his Cabinet role as chief secretary to the prime minister in Mr Burnham’s reshuffle, questioned the arithmetic. Writing on X, Jones, who had been responsible for the digital ID programme, welcomed the VAT cut as a straightforward way to help families save money, but added that the digital ID programme was itself unfunded, meaning ministers would need to explain at the Budget how the new policy will actually be paid for. A source close to the prime minister pushed back, telling reporters the digital ID costings had always been accounted for within general government spending. The criticism was echoed by the opposition. Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch said the explanations offered by the new government were already “falling apart” only one day into its term, arguing that funding a policy from an already-unfunded scheme did not add up. Shadow chancellor Mel Stride made a similar point, noting that the Office for Budget Responsibility had flagged the previous November that the annual cost of the digital ID scheme was not properly funded. Consumer champion Martin Lewis, founder of MoneySavingExpert, gave a more mixed assessment. He called the move a “good totemic step” that would be welcomed by households, but separately cautioned that most people would notice little practical benefit, particularly with Ofgem’s price cap expected to rise by around 3.1% in October — a jump that could outweigh the saving from the VAT cut. The policy is only possible because the UK left the EU; under EU rules VAT on domestic energy could not previously fall below 5%. The change will not apply in Northern Ireland, which remains bound by separate EU VAT arrangements. Mr Burnham’s first day also saw a wider reshuffle, with eleven ministers removed from Cabinet, and appointments confirmed for Angela Rayner, Lucy Powell, Louise Haigh, Anneliese Midgley, Lisa Nandy and Bridget Phillipson. The prime minister also held introductory calls with US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, with Trump describing the exchange on Truth Social as a “very good conversation.” Further cost-of-living measures are expected in the coming days, with Mr Burnham telling reporters in Downing Street’s rose garden that ministers were looking at a range of options, including rent controls and support with bus fares, and would set out further announcements shortly.

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CRICKET - Leamington cruise to seven-wicket win at Worfield

Tue, 21 Jul 2026 12:00:36 +0100

JASON Jakeman took six wickets as Leamington CC claimed a seven-wicket victory against Worfield while Harrison Smith hit an unbeaten century.

Jakeman starred with the ball and helped bowl Worfield out for 169 in 47.4 overs at Davenport Park.

And opener Smith finished on exactly 100 not out with the bat as Leamington reached the required target in 36.1 overs with seven wickets in hand. The result means Leamington sit third in the Birmingham Premier League Premier Division Two table. Worfield won the toss and elected to bat only for Tom Warner (2-33) to remove both of the home side's openers as he trapped Harris Ajaz (1) LBW and accounted for Aman Hussain (28). Harry Thompson (1-45) then removed Basit Zaman (11) before Jakeman (6-43) claimed his first scalp with the wicket of Ross Aucott (26). And Jakeman quickly removed Arthur Smallman (4) to leave Worfield in trouble on 74-5. Jakeman also accounted for Joe Arnold (18), Shahrukh Khan (1), Ravan Chahal (33) and Rohel Peters (40) to bowl Worfield out for 169. In reply, Leamington opener Smith (100 not out) remained at the crease throughout the away side's innings. Smith hit 13 boundaries in a 114-ball knock and found support at the crease from Jonathan Wigley (26) and Chris Calcott (21 not out). Worfield took three wickets but could not remove Smith as Leamington cruised to victory in 36.1 overs. Leamington are next in action against Old Hill on Saturday, July 25 with play to begin at 12pm(midday) at Arlington Avenue.

Year of hard work celebrated at Painting's Plantation in Leamington

Tue, 21 Jul 2026 12:00:28 +0100

A YEAR of hard work has been celebrated at Paintings Plantation in Leamington. The nature reserve at Campion School is maintained by students and retired volunteers from Age UK Coventry and Warwickshire. Leamington mayor Sarah Boad toured the site to see what they have achieved. The plantation is named after the late actor and countryman Norman Paintings, who played Phil Archer in BBC Radio 4's The Archers for decades, and who helped plant the very first trees there back at the turn of the millennium. He was patron of Age Concern Warwickshire until his death in 2009 and his ashes are under some of the trees. But in the intervening years the site became overgrown and inaccessible. In 2017, Age UK proposed a scheme to regenerate and develop the plantation. A band of retired volunteers cleared the undergrowth away and now each week meet to maintain the area so that others can use it. In the course of a year, ten local primary schools have visited the reserve to pond dip as part of their curriculum. The ECO club meets every two weeks after school with the Age UK volunteers to undertake various jobs including planting and looking after the vegetable plot. And other school departments use the facilities as an outdoor classroom.

CRICKET - Norton Lindsey return to winning ways with six-wicket win at Adlestrop

Tue, 21 Jul 2026 09:00:10 +0100

TOM Wilcox starred with ball and bat as Norton Lindsey CC returned to winning ways with a six-wicket victory at Adlestrop.

Wilcox took a five-wicket haul to help bowl the home side out for 152 in 44.1 overs at Adlestrop Park.

And Wilcox then recorded a half-century as Norton reached the required total in 34 overs with six wickets in hand. The result means Norton sit second in the Cotswold Hills League First Division table. Adlestrop won the toss and elected to bat as the home side's first six batters all reached double figures while opener Otto Bisson (28) top scored. Economical spells from Steve Bliwert (1-18) and Jack Mann (1-15) restricted Adlestrop's ability to score runs freely. The wicket of Chris Reakes (16), from the bowling of David McInnes (1-19) sparked a collapse as the home side lost their final six wickets for the addition of just 36 runs. Adlestrop slumped from 116-5 to 152 all out as Wilcox (5-36) ripped through the home side's tail order while Matthew Edwards (2-27) took two wickets. Norton found themselves on 23-2 early in their reply as openers Jake Rushton (2) and Joe Williamson (15) both fell cheaply. However, Harry Clarke (43) and Wilcox (72) combined for a match-winning 98-run third-wicket stand. Wilcox eventually departed with the visitors just two runs shy of victory as Dan Fell (3 not out) and Edwards (2 not out) guided Norton over the line.

Elsewhere, Norton's second XI claimed a five-wicket victory against Stoneleigh 2nds at Wolverton Road.

Stoneleigh won the toss and elected to bat as openers Ilyas Chattha (34) and Zain Ul-Abidin (26) put on 48 runs for the first wicket. However, Dave Jarrett (4-27) removed all of Stoneleigh's first four batters to leave the visitors on 91-4. Jarrett also caught Abhishek Goswami (48) off the bowling of Martin Hall (1-33) while Steve Dellow (1-18) also took a wicket. Ilhan Chatha (25 not out) boosted the away side's total as Stoneleigh closed on 183-6 at the end of their 40 overs. Norton made a strong start with the bat in reply as openers Malcolm Henchley (32) and Mark White (55) produced a 76-run first-wicket stand. Srinivasan Parthasarathi (3-26) broke up the partnership and also accounted for White and Max Ashley (0) as the latter departed for a three-ball duck. However, Jarrett (50 not out) scored a 52-ball half-century, which included five boundaries, to guide Norton to a five-wicket win in 38.5 overs. The result means Norton 2nds sit fifth in the Cotswold Hills League Fourth Division table. Norton's first XI are next in action against Ashton-Under-Hill on Saturday, July 25 with play to begin at 12.30pm at Wolverton Road. The club's second XI travel to Lapworth 2nds on Saturday, July 25 with play to begin at 1pm at the Melson Memorial Ground.

Burnham's cabinet: who's in, who's out - NATIONAL NEWS

Tue, 21 Jul 2026 08:52:48 +0100

Andy Burnham has been selecting his first cabinet as Prime Minister, ending much speculation in Westminster with a sweeping reshuffle that saw several Starmer era big beasts moved, demoted or dismissed.

Mr Burnham was appointed Prime Minister on Monday, 20 July 2026, after King Charles accepted the resignation of Sir Keir Starmer, following Mr Burnham’s unopposed election as Labour leader.

He had entered Parliament only weeks earlier, after winning the Makerfield by-election, a seat vacated to allow the former Greater Manchester mayor to stand for the leadership.

Chancellor: John Healey

In the biggest surprise of the reshuffle, John Healey was named Chancellor of the Exchequer, moving from the Ministry of Defence and replacing Rachel Reeves, who left the government. Mr Healey, a long serving Labour frontbencher, called the appointment “the greatest privilege” and pledged to build a new economy for working people.

Prime Minister Andy Burnham appoints John Healey as Chancellor of the Exchequer in 10 Downing Street. Picture by Simon Dawson / No 10 Downing Street

Foreign Secretary: Ed Miliband

Ed Miliband moves from the energy brief to become Foreign Secretary, taking over from David Lammy, who also departed the cabinet.

Home Secretary: Shabana Mahmood

Shabana Mahmood stays on as Home Secretary, having reportedly turned down the chance to become Chancellor in order to continue her work on asylum policy.

Prime Minister Andy Burnham reappoints Shabana Mahmood as Secretary of State for the Home Department in 10 Downing Street. Picture by Simon Dawson / No 10 Downing Street

Defence Secretary: Wes Streeting

Wes Streeting, the former Health Secretary and a onetime leadership contender himself, was among the last senior figures to arrive at Downing Street. He has been appointed Defence Secretary, taking the post vacated by Mr Healey.

Health Secretary: Yvette Cooper

Yvette Cooper, who served as Home Secretary and then Foreign Secretary under Sir Keir, moves to Health, a department she also worked in during the Blair years. She is expected to lead on social care reform, a priority for the new Prime Minister.

Education Secretary: Lucy Powell

Lucy Powell, a close ally of Mr Burnham who was sacked as Leader of the Commons in a previous reshuffle, returns to the cabinet as Education Secretary.

Work and Pensions Secretary: Pat McFadden

Pat McFadden keeps his job as Work and Pensions Secretary, a role he has pledged to use to reform the welfare system.

Housing Secretary: Angela Rayner

Angela Rayner returns to government in the housing brief she held until her resignation last September, following a report into her tax affairs. She was cleared of deliberate wrongdoing earlier this year.

Business and Trade Secretary: Jonathan Reynolds

Jonathan Reynolds has been reappointed Secretary of State for Business and Trade.

First Secretary of State and Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster: Louise Haigh

Louise Haigh, seen as one of Mr Burnham’s closest allies and a key figure in his campaign to return to Parliament and Downing Street, becomes First Secretary of State, Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster and Minister for the Cabinet Office.

Other cabinet appointments

Also confirmed in cabinet roles are Bridget Phillipson as Equalities Minister, Lisa Nandy as Culture Secretary, Miatta Fahnbulleh as Energy Secretary, Alex Norris as Justice Secretary, Heidi Alexander as Transport Secretary, Angela Eagle as Environment Secretary, Sir Chris Bryant as Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, Douglas Alexander as Secretary of State for Scotland, Stephen Kinnock as Secretary of State for Wales, Emma Reynolds as Chief Secretary to the Treasury, Anneliese Midgley as Chief Whip, Ellie Reeves as Attorney General, Alan Campbell as Leader of the Commons, Baroness Smith of Basildon as Leader of the Lords, Hamish Falconer as Minister for Intergovernmental Relations, Kanishka Narayan as Minister for Artificial Intelligence, and Matthew Pennycook as Housing Minister.

Who left the cabinet

Among those to leave government in the reshuffle are Rachel Reeves, who leaves the Treasury, David Lammy, who departs as Deputy Prime Minister and Justice Secretary, Steve Reed, who leaves the Housing brief, and Baron Hermer, the outgoing Attorney General. Darren Jones and Hilary Benn were also dismissed from their posts.

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MP Matt Western talks to students about social media ban

Tue, 21 Jul 2026 07:00:47 +0100

MP MATT Western has been talking with students about the ban on social media for under 16s. The Warwick and Leamington MP brought together students from Campion School and Myton School, and minister for AI and online safety Kanishka Narayan, to discuss the incoming ban. A social media ban for under 16s was announced by the Government last month with plans to bring it into force next spring. The ban followed a three-month consultation on how to prepare children for the future in an age of rapid technological change. The results of the consultation showed a huge demand for action, with nine in ten parents backing a ban and two-thirds of young people agreeing under 16s should not be allowed to use at least some social media platforms. Social media companies will be banned from providing their services to under 16s, and under 16s will be prevented from accessing harmful functions on other online services, including gaming services. There will be age checks to enforce these requirements. Those under the age of 18 will also be prevented from accessing AI chatbot services that primarily offer sexual content. Other AI chatbot services will not be able to offer children features that enable sexually explicit or sexual role-playing content. The students shared their views on the benefits and drawbacks of social media. Discussions ranged from the risks of being exposed to harmful content on platforms to the benefits of educational content on platforms such as YouTube which have helped students with revision of certain topics. The minister answered questions from students on a range of issues, including the lessons the UK Government had learnt from a similar ban the Australian Government introduced last December how they would ensure educational content is not being restricted. Mr Western said: “The social media ban is a generational change and it is crucial that young people can have their voices heard in the process. "The students asked thoughtful questions, demonstrating their strong engagement on this important subject matter. I was incredibly proud of them and how they represented themselves, their peers and the constituency. "It is vital that we engage young people in policy and I’m grateful for the students and their teachers for their time and brilliant participation in this session.”

Amnesty for the safe disposal of nitrous oxide launched in Warwickshire

Mon, 20 Jul 2026 17:00:00 +0100

AN AMNESTY for the safe disposal of nitrous oxide canisters has been launched in Warwickshire. Nitrous oxide, commonly known as ‘laughing gas’ is used as a short-acting sedative and pain reliever in medicine and dentistry, but is also abused by people who inhale it to get ‘high’. Its use soared during the pandemic, becoming one of the most-abused substances, especially by 16 to 24-year-olds. It prompted a change in the law in November 2023 to make possession of nitrous oxide a criminal offence for recreational use in England and Wales. WCC’s new initiative allows people to drop off household quantities of the canisters at four participating recycling centres free of charge and without challenge. Nitrous oxide canisters are increasingly being found discarded in parks, grass verges, and public spaces across Warwickshire. Beyond acting as an environmental blight, these discarded items pose a hazard to residents. Critically, if placed in standard household waste or recycling bins, the canisters – which can remain highly pressurised even when they appear empty – create severe operational and safety risks for staff at waste treatment facilities. The new amnesty provides a safe, lawful, and accessible way for people to dispose of the canisters responsibly. WCC environment spokesman Coun Darren Cheshire said: “Discarded nitrous oxide canisters are a growing issue in our parks and public spaces, and they present a very real danger to our waste facility staff if thrown into standard household bins. “This amnesty scheme is a practical, positive solution. We are providing a safe, no-questions-asked disposal route to help protect our communities, our staff, and our waste infrastructure. I strongly urge residents to use this free service, keep these hazardous items out of our environment, and ensure they can be safely processed for metal recovery.” The amnesty service is available at Princes Drive in Leamington, Hunters Lane in Rugby, Burton Farm in Stratford, and also Lower House Farm in Atherstone . Important Guidance for Residents Household Quantities Only: The scheme is designed for residential use, and site staff will accept standard household quantities of canisters. Do Not Bin Them: Under no circumstances should nitrous oxide canisters be placed in regular household waste or recycling bins. Safe Recycling: Canisters collected through the amnesty will be managed through a specialist route, ensuring careful segregation and handling before they are sent for sustainable metal recovery.

Reeves, Lammy Among First Casualties of New PM's Reshuffle - NATIONAL NEWS

Mon, 20 Jul 2026 16:37:50 +0100

Andy Burnham wasted little time asserting control over the Labour government on his first day as Prime Minister, ousting several senior figures closely associated with his predecessor, Sir Keir Starmer, within hours of taking office.

Burnham travelled to Buckingham Palace on Monday, where King Charles formally invited him to form a government after Starmer tendered his resignation.

Speaking outside No 10 without notes, Burnham said he intended to “make this moment a circuit-breaker for Britain” and pledged “the biggest changes in the last 40 years.” His wife, Marie-France van Heel, joined him as he entered Downing Street for the first time as premier. Starmer loyalists cleared out The new Prime Minister moved quickly to reshape his top team, sacking several ministers widely viewed as staunch Starmer allies:

Rachel Reeves, Chancellor of the Exchequer, was removed from her post. She said in a statement that it had been the privilege of her life to serve as Chancellor, adding that the economy was stronger, fairer and more resilient thanks to the government’s choices over the past two years. Shabana Mahmood, the Home Secretary, and Ed Miliband, the Energy Secretary, were seen as the leading contenders to succeed her.
David Lammy, who had combined the roles of Deputy Prime Minister and Justice Secretary, was also let go. He said he would have been proud to continue serving in Cabinet, but recognised a new Prime Minister was entitled to build his own team, and said he would support the government from the backbenches instead.
Steve Reed, the Housing Secretary, stood down ahead of Burnham’s formal Cabinet announcement. He described himself as “disappointed to be leaving Government now” in a letter to Burnham.
Peter Kyle, the Business Secretary and a close ally of Wes Streeting, was also dismissed, with reports suggesting former business secretary Jonathan Reynolds could return to the department.
Lord Hermer, the Attorney General and one of Starmer’s closest Cabinet allies, likewise departed, thanking Starmer for the chance to serve while wishing Burnham’s government success.

Rewarding allies Burnham’s reshuffle is expected to elevate figures who backed his leadership bid. Louise Haigh, a prominent supporter, was reportedly offered a senior role but turned it down, according to reporting on the reshuffle. In his first substantive announcement as Prime Minister, Burnham pledged £340 million to tackle homelessness and rough sleeping. He also said he was weighing measures such as rent controls as part of a wider cost-of-living package, promising further detail on the economy the following day, and indicating he wanted policies that would make a tangible, fairly immediate difference to people’s lives. On foreign affairs, Burnham held his first call with US President Donald Trump and extended an invitation for Trump to visit Manchester, the city he served as mayor before becoming Prime Minister. Reaction The reshuffle drew criticism from the Conservatives. Shadow Justice Secretary Nick Timothy welcomed Lammy’s departure, arguing his tenure had been marked by record court backlogs and criticised his record on prison releases and jury trial reforms. Campaigners against antisemitism also wrote to Burnham urging him to prioritise domestic action on the issue, following his recent pledge to impose further sanctions on Israel. Polling conducted before the leadership change suggested a mixed reception among voters who had defected from Labour to Reform UK, with a majority viewing Burnham unfavourably and only a small share saying they would consider returning to Labour. More to follow.

Main Image: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/

FOOTBALL - Leamington sign international centre-back Ruben Freeman following trial period

Mon, 20 Jul 2026 15:00:09 +0100

LEAMINGTON have signed Saint Kitts and Nevis international centre-back Ruben Freeman after he impressed on trial at the club during pre-season, writes Jacob Scandrett.

The 23-year-old ended the previous campaign at Sporting Club Inkberrow after beginning the season at Stourbridge.

Freeman has won three caps for St Kitts and Nevis at senior international level and last represented his country in March earlier this year.

Brakes boss, Scott Easterlow said: "Rubes is a player I have worked with before and has always had potential. "The most pleasing thing for me is that he looks in better shape than ever before and that can only be good for him and us moving into the season." Freeman added: "I'm buzzing to be here and cant wait to get the season started. "Having worked under the manager before, I know what his expectations are and what he will want us to achieve as a group and I'm excited to be part of it. "I'm ready for a new challenge and this feels like the perfect place for me."

Freeman began his career with various clubs in the Midlands, including Walsall Wood, Barnt Green Spartak, Highgate United, Studley and Barwell. He also made more than 20 appearances for Racing Club Warwick under Brakes boss Easterlow in the 2024/25 season. Freeman later enjoyed success at Inkberrow as he helped the club secure a first-ever promotion from the Hellenic League to the Southern League. He began the previous campaign with Stourbridge in the Southern League Premier Central before returning to Inkberrow who he helped achieve a comfortable mid-table finish.

Singer-songwriter Bill Bates tuning up for concert in aid of Myton Hospices

Mon, 20 Jul 2026 14:00:00 +0100

SINGER-SONGWRITER Bill Bates is tuning up for a free concert as part of the Warwick Folk Festival. The concert will feature songs from Bill’s album Madhouse, written and recorded in support of Myton Hospice. So far, the project has raised £1,400 for the charity. It takes place at the Unitarian Chapel opposite the historic Lord Leycester Hospital in High Street on Saturday July 25, from 3.30pm. The performance has added significance for Bill and his wife, Louise. They recently visited Myton Hospice for the first time since their son, Matthew, died there almost ten years ago. Bill said: “Returning to Myton brought back so many memories, but it also reminded us of the extraordinary care and compassion the staff showed our family during the most difficult time of our lives. Raising money through music feels like a small way of saying thank you.” Madhouse is a collection of original songs that reflect life’s challenges, humour, resilience and hope. Every CD sold helps support the vital work of Myton Hospice, although Bill stresses there is absolutely no obligation for concert-goers to make a purchase. “I simply want people to come along, enjoy an afternoon of live music and, if they leave with a smile, that’s enough for me.”

FOOTBALL - Racing Club Warwick too strong for Worcester Raiders in pre-season friendly

Mon, 20 Jul 2026 12:00:47 +0100

RACING Club Warwick produced a strong first-half performance in a 3-1 pre-season victory against Worcester Raiders.

Warwick raced into a two-goal lead inside 10 minutes against their Step Four opponents at the Diary of a Debt Collector Stadium.

An early strike from Hisham Chiha put the Racers ahead after just five minutes before Connor Keene doubled the away side's lead just two minutes later. And Adam Walker put the Racers three goals ahead on 21 minutes as Warwick took a commanding lead into the break. Raiders reduced the deficit five minutes from time as the Racers maintained their unbeaten record in pre-season. Racing Club Warwick are next in action against Coleshill Town on Saturday, July 25 with kick-off at 1pm at Pack Meadow.

Warwick District Council's CCTV team fully focused on the job

Mon, 20 Jul 2026 12:00:23 +0100

WARWICK District Council’s CCTV's team is fully focused on the job in hand. It recently passed its annual British Standard inspection for the 21st consecutive year, demonstrating the team is operating to the highest standards. The standard provides guidelines for the management and operation of closed-circuit television control rooms. It covers various aspects of CCTV control room operations including staffing, training, equipment, procedures, and data protection. The CCTV team operate 24/7 throughout the year and have prevented 35 possible thefts in the last two months by working alongside retailers in the town centres, and have assisted the police with several high profile investigations and operations. CCTV is more than just crime prevention. In the past few months, the team has also located nine missing people, and provided reassurance for event organisers putting on events in the town centres. WDC spokesman Coun Jim Sinnott said: “I’m extremely proud of the achievements of the CCTV team, who continue to demonstrate their commitment to providing the highest standards of service in keeping our communities safe. “I know that the whole team wear this achievement as a badge of honour and are proud of their involvement in making Warwick District a safer place to live, work and visit.”

Starmer Bows Out as PM - National News

Mon, 20 Jul 2026 11:56:54 +0100

Sir Keir Starmer has formally stepped down as prime minister on Monday, ending a two-year premiership that began with a landslide election win and closed amid mounting pressure from within his own party.

He is succeeded by Andy Burnham, who will take office later in the day as Britain’s seventh prime minister in a decade.

Burnham, new Labour leader, who was crowned on Friday, will address the nation as prime minister for the first time this afternoon. Starmer delivered a farewell address outside 10 Downing Street shortly after 11am this morning, telling the country his “work is done.” He said he was proud to leave Britain “stronger and fairer” than when he took office, pointing to falling NHS waiting times, lower immigration figures and Britain’s continued backing of Ukraine as among his achievements. He also referenced the biggest fall in waiting times in 17 years and progress in reducing child poverty. Reflecting on six and a half years leading the Labour Party, Starmer recalled taking it from its 2019 general election defeat to a landslide victory in 2024, calling the premiership the privilege of his life. He wished Burnham “every success” and pledged his full support, while thanking his family, staff and the civil service for their work over the past two years. Following the speech, Starmer travelled with his wife, Victoria, to Buckingham Palace, where he tendered his resignation to King Charles. The Palace confirmed shortly before 11.40am that the King had accepted the resignation. In a statement, the palace announced:

“The Rt. Hon. Sir Keir Starmer MP had an audience of The King this morning and tendered his resignation as Prime Minister and First Lord of the Treasury which His Majesty was graciously pleased to accept. “Lady Starmer was also received by The King.”

Burnham was due to have his own audience with the King around midday, after which he was expected to address the nation outside Downing Street as prime minister for the first time, at around 12.40pm. Path to power Starmer’s departure followed months of internal Labour turmoil. He first announced his intention to resign on 22 June, telling colleagues he accepted their doubts over whether he was the right person to lead the party into the next general election. The move came shortly after Burnham, the former mayor of Greater Manchester, won the Makerfield by-election on 18 June, returning him to Parliament and positioning him as the clear favourite to succeed Starmer. No rival challenger emerged, and Burnham was confirmed as Labour leader unopposed on Friday. Starmer had led Labour to a 411-seat majority at the July 2024 general election, ending 14 years of Conservative government. His time in office was nonetheless marked by a series of policy reversals, including on winter fuel payments and the two-child benefit cap, alongside sustained pressure over taxes, the economy and immigration. What comes next Burnham takes office facing calls from opposition parties, including Reform UK’s Nigel Farage, for a fresh general election, given that Labour is not required to go to the country until 2029. Burnham has so far ruled out an early vote. He is expected to move quickly on a reshuffle of the Cabinet, with several of Starmer’s closest allies, including Chancellor Rachel Reeves, widely expected to leave government. Burnham has signalled a shift toward greater state intervention, including possible steps on Thames Water and other utilities, alongside a renewed focus on devolution to England’s regions.

FOOTBALL - Leamington slip to pre-season defeat against Coventry City under-21s

Mon, 20 Jul 2026 09:00:35 +0100

LEAMINGTON suffered a first pre-season defeat ahead of the 2026/27 season after losing 3-2 against Coventry City under-21s.

Goals from Kyle Finn and a trialist proved in vain for Scott Easterlow's side against a young Sky Blues team at the Your Co-op Community Stadium.

The Brakes went unbeaten in their opening four pre-season matches which included a draw against League Two side Walsall. Former Coventry youngsters Finn and Dexter Walters featured in Leamington's squad. However, the young Sky Blues took the lead on 26 minutes when Tristen Batanwi caught a Leamington player in possession and coolly found the net. Brakes midfielder Cameron Eubank then made a vital intervention to intercept a pass across the Leamington box. Leamington's trialist goalkeeper then denied Elijah Briscoe as Coventry continued to push for a second goal. And Coventry doubled their lead on 38 minutes after the trialist keeper denied Harry Gray only for a Sky Blues trialist to turn home the loose ball from close range. Leamington's trialist keeper made another stop later in the first half as he turned Eliot Betjeman's first time effort to safety.

The Brakes made several changes at the break while Coventry changed their entire starting XI with the young Sky Blues two goals ahead at the interval.

And Leamington halved the deficit four minutes into the second period as Finn slammed a shot past Eliot Meredith from Walters' low ball in from the left. However, Coventry quickly restored their two-goal cushion as Nsemi Bassega finished from close range at the second attempt. The visitors almost scored a fourth goal when MacKenzie Stretton's shot cannoned against the inside of the post and back across goal. And the Brakes hit the woodwork at the other end as Harvey Broad sliced a loose ball clear after Walters' low cross struck the post. The teams traded late chances as Meredith denied Finn low down while Bassega stabbed wide with the goal at his mercy at the other end. The home side added a late consolation goal when Finn squared for a trialist to finish past Meredith with the Brakes unable to find a leveller. Leamington are next in action against Rugby Borough on Tuesday, July 21 with kick-off at 7.45pm at Kilsby Lane.

"Rushed and risky" South Warwickshire Local Plan given approval

Mon, 20 Jul 2026 07:00:00 +0100

CALLS to ditch the timeframe for the “rushed and risky” South Warwickshire Local Plan have been rejected. Planning chiefs said it was either this plan or no plan and that would ultimately make things worse. Members of Warwick and Stratford district councils agreed to put the revised draft plan to build almost 55,000 new homes across the region and the surrounding areas out for a seven week public consultation in order to meet the government’s December 31 deadline. At a joint council meeting a number of councillors and members of the public urged the deadline should be missed in a bid to put together a better plan to deliver the required number of homes. The plan has been drawn up by the two councils following government requirements to build a significant amount of new development by 2050. Listed sites in the plan for Warwick district include the large 4,000-home development on a 269-hectare ‘King’s Hill’ site between Kenilworth and Coventry, the 4,000 ‘new town’ near Hatton, 1,784 houses on two pockets of land in North Leamington, 1,550 on land near Europa Way, 916 houses near Lillington, 493 to the west of Warwick and 558 on the outskirts of Bishop’s Tachbrook. In Stratford district, the sites and number of houses include 3,086 on land west of Southam, 1,331 on land north of Wellesbourne, and a new settlement of 4,500 homes at Long Marston Airfield. The plan was discussed by WDC and SDC back in May and it was decided to delay the plan in order to make a number of amendments including removing some of the sites in Warwick district and adding the expected number of non-local plan sites to the plan. But concerns still remain over housing numbers and lack of infrastructure. One public speaker said: “Can we all honestly say this is a great local plan and something that will really enhance south Warwickshire for future generations? “A better plan can be achieved and must be achieved for the younger generation. Please ditch the timeframe. It is rushed and risky.” This was echoed by chairman of SDC’s overview and scrutiny committee Coun Trevor Harvey who said there was an “inherent level of risk in the plan”, especially the lack of funding for the proposed Stratford relief road on which the plan was critically dependent. SDC’s planning spokesperson Coun George Cowcher responded to concerns saying it was vital they got the plan through by the December deadline otherwise they would lose all control and dictation from government would become even greater. WDC’s planning spokesperson Coun Chris King added the public consultation was extremely important and the plan would be re-looked at afterwards.

Campaign aims to keep motorcyclists safe on Warwickshire's roads

Sun, 19 Jul 2026 17:06:00 +0100

KEEPING motorcyclists safe on Warwickshire roads is the focus of a summer campaign. Warwickshire Road Safety Partnership and Warwickshire Police want to reduce the number of motorcyclists killed and seriously injured on the county’s roads. Despite making up a relatively small proportion of road users in Warwickshire, motorcyclists account for a significant number of people involved in the most serious road collisions. Last year, 75 riders were killed or seriously injured on the roads in the county – a quarter of the total number. The campaign focuses on two key behaviour changes that research shows can significantly reduce the number of serious collisions involving motorcyclists. The most significant factor in serious collisions involving motorcyclists is drivers failing to look properly at junctions or not spotting motorcycles approaching. And the campaign also urges motorcyclists to take extra care when approaching bends, corners and junctions, and to travel at a speed that allows them to stop within the distance they can see, helping prevent overshooting junctions or losing control during manoeuvres. Insp Dan James, of Warwickshire Police Roads Policing Team, said: “Motorcyclists are among the most vulnerable road users, and the consequences of a collision can be devastating for them and motorists involved. “Whether you’re on four wheels or two, small changes can make a big difference. By working together, we can all do our part to keep Warwickshire’s roads safe this summer and reduce the number of motorcyclists killed and seriously injured on our roads.” Police and crime commissioner for Warwickshire, and chair of the Warwickshire Road Safety Partnership, Philip Seccombe, is backing the campaign. “Every death and serious injury on our roads is one too many, with motorcyclists remaining disproportionately represented in the most serious collisions across Warwickshire. “This campaign is about encouraging everyone to take a simple, but potentially lifesaving, action. For drivers, that means taking an extra moment to look carefully at junctions and actively expecting to see a motorcycle. For riders, it means approaching bends, corners and junctions at a safe speed and always riding within the limits of what they can see. “Road safety is a shared responsibility. By making these small changes and looking out for one another, we can help prevent tragedies, protect some of our most vulnerable road users and make Warwickshire’s roads safer for everyone this summer.”

COMMENT: England Bring It Home With Style, And Show The World How Football Should Be Played

Sun, 19 Jul 2026 11:15:29 +0100

Last night in Miami, England didn’t just win a football match, they put on an absolute masterclass, a six-goal, hat-trick-laden, jaw-on-the-floor spectacle that had the Hard Rock Stadium buzzing and had every neutral in America suddenly wishing they’d been born on this sceptred isle.

6-4 against France. Bronze medal secured. Best World Cup finish since 1966. Rocket emoji. St George’s flag emoji. You know the drill.

Let’s be crystal clear about what happened here, because the numbers alone don’t do it justice. Four goals up at half-time. FOUR. Declan Rice, captain for the night, absolute colossus, opening the scoring with a finish so clean you’d think it came out of a 3D printer. Then Ezri Konsa rising like a man who’d been personally offended by gravity. Then Bukayo Saka, twice, showing exactly why benching him for the semi-final is a conversation England will be having for years. By half-time it was 4-0 and the stadium didn’t know whether to laugh or applaud. Both, frankly. Both is correct. Yes, France clawed back into it. Yes, there were nerves. Yes, for about twenty minutes it looked like Atlanta all over again. But here’s the difference, and it’s the whole point: Thomas Tuchel didn’t blink. No panic. No retreat into some bunker formation with five centre-backs standing around admiring the turf. He brought on Jude Bellingham and Elliot Anderson, attacking substitutions, more steel in midfield but never a surrender of ambition, and England saw it out like champions. Bellingham capped his tournament with a driving, surging, no-nonsense goal that was the perfect full stop on England’s best World Cup showing in nearly sixty years. Djed Spence won a penalty. Saka dispatched it for his hat-trick, the first England World Cup treble since Harry Kane in 2018. Bronze medal. Heads held high. Absolutely magnificent. And can we talk about how England did it? Because this is the bit that actually matters. This wasn’t backs-to-the-wall, niggling, time-wasting, shirt-tugging football. This was England playing with freedom, flair, ambition, Saka gliding past defenders like they were cones in a training drill, Rice pinging passes around like a Tube map come to life, Bellingham doing what Bellingham does. Clean. Sporting. Relentlessly positive. A credit, an absolute credit, to this nation. If you want to know what English football looks like when it trusts itself, this was it. Now let’s talk about Argentina Because someone has to. Whatever happens in the final, Argentina should hang their heads. The football world watched an England side get out-pushed, out–shoved, and out-cynical’d in that semi-final by a team that seemed to think certain rules were optional. Grabbing shirts. Punching the back of a neck here. Pushing off balance there. The whole theatre of falling over clutching a shin that hadn’t been touched after they’d just pushed their opponent to the floor. It’s not football, is it? It’s WWE with shin pads. And the truly damning thing is that when England, a team that had just put four goals past a World Cup semi-finalist inside 45 minutes without so much as raising a voice, met a team playing the way football is meant to be played, they walked it. It’s only against the pullers and grabbers and dirty tricks that England came unstuck. Draw your own conclusions. We have. Argentina may still lift a trophy this weekend. Fine. Trophies gather dust. Reputations don’t. The world has had a good long look at how that Argentina side conducts itself, and however many stars are on that shirt, style isn’t one of them. And let’s not forget their players posing with that banner the moment the final whistle went. Fans back in Buenos Aires burning England flags in the street and parading a coffin draped in the Union Jack, like beating a football team was some sort of national liberation. That dreadful banner, and the flag-burning that followed it, says everything about the mentality on show. Pathetic, really. England, by total contrast, leave this tournament with their dignity, their swagger, and the genuine affection of a neutral American crowd who turned up for an “exhibition” third-place match and left having seen one of the great World Cup goal-fests. That’s not nothing. That’s everything. And a word for the other true winners: Norway If England were the story of substance, Norway were the story of the heart, and frankly the whole tournament is better for them having been there. Twenty-eight years away from the World Cup, a nation of five and a bit million people, and they turned up and absolutely lit the place up. Beating Brazil, five-time World Cup winners Brazil, to reach their first-ever quarter-final is one of the great World Cup fairy tales of the modern era, and the “Viking Row” became the single most joyful image of the entire tournament: thousands of fans sitting down in unison, rowing imaginary oars, chanting “Ro!” like it was the most natural thing in the world. Even after England edged them out in extra time in the quarters, Norway left with the world’s heart in their pocket. Erling Haaland became a global phenomenon almost by accident, simply by being ruthlessly, joyfully brilliant. Football needs teams like Norway. The whole world fell for them, and rightly so. Roll on 2030 So here’s where we land. England: bronze medal, best finish since ’66, playing attacking, attractive, honest football all the way to the final whistle. Argentina: exposed as bullies dressed up as footballers, and worse off for it whatever silverware they end up with. Norway: the neutrals’ darlings, proof that romance still has a place in this sport. England go home with their heads high and a squad that is, frankly, only going to get better. Bellingham, Saka, Rice, Konsa, a manager learning fast from every mistake, this is a team on the way up, not a team that’s peaked. Third in the world right now. Not bad. Not bad at all. But this is just the beginning. Four years from now the World Cup heads to Morocco, Portugal and Spain for its centenary edition, and England will arrive as a team that knows exactly what it’s capable of. England didn’t win this one. Fine. Noted. Filed away. But 2030 is ours. It’s coming home.

Main image: For illustration purposes only

Ex-West Midlands Police Chief Handed £57,800 on Departure Over Maccabi Tel Aviv Ban Row

Sun, 19 Jul 2026 10:38:09 +0100

Craig Guildford, who stepped down as Chief Constable of West Midlands Police in January amid a political storm over his force’s handling of the Maccabi Tel Aviv fan ban, has been paid £57,800 following his retirement from the role.

Guildford left the force on 16 January 2026, days after Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood told the House of Commons she had lost confidence in his leadership.

His departure came in the wake of a Home Affairs Select Committee inquiry into West Midlands Police’s recommendation to bar Maccabi Tel Aviv supporters from Villa Park for the club’s Europa League fixture against Aston Villa on 6 November 2025. The committee concluded that the force had relied on intelligence that was exaggerated and inaccurate, and that it had failed to properly consult Birmingham’s Jewish community before recommending the ban to the council’s Safety Advisory Group. Guildford separately admitted to MPs that a claim included in police intelligence, referencing a fictitious fixture between Maccabi Tel Aviv and West Ham, had been generated using Microsoft Copilot, an AI tool. This came after he had earlier told the committee, incorrectly, that his force had not used artificial intelligence at all. The Payment According to the West Midlands Police and Crime Commissioner’s office, the £57,800 sum represents three months’ pay in lieu of notice, along with outstanding leave that Guildford had accrued, payments it says he was contractually entitled to.
A spokesperson for the PCC’s office said there was no mechanism available to prevent a chief constable from retiring or resigning, and that the alternative, Guildford remaining in post and drawing his salary through a notice period lasting until April 2026, would not have served the public interest. The spokesperson said Guildford “received no more than the bare minimum he was contractually entitled to,” and described his immediate retirement as “the most efficient and cost-effective outcome” that “ensured continuity of operational leadership within West Midlands Police.” Political Reaction The payout has drawn sharp criticism from politicians and campaigners, who argue it rewards a chief constable who left office in disgrace. Nick Timothy, the Conservative Party’s Shadow Justice Secretary, condemned the payment as amounting to a “reward for failure.” He said:

“It is a disgrace that Craig Guildford has walked away with such a huge payout. On his watch, under pressure from Islamists and anti-Semites, West Midlands Police lied to justify banning Israeli fans from Villa Park.”

Labour MP David Taylor also criticised the sum, calling it “a truly shocking case of reward for failure” and demanding that West Midlands Police “explain this decision immediately.” William Yarwood of the TaxPayers’ Alliance warned that police forces should not treat the public purse as a source of exit payments for departing chiefs, saying taxpayers “should not be used as a cash machine for police chiefs leaving under a cloud.” He added that the payout “will look to many like a golden goodbye for failure at a time when confidence in policing is already on the floor.” Background Guildford, 52, had led West Midlands Police since December 2022. He did not offer an apology when announcing his retirement, instead attributing his decision to what he called the “political and media frenzy” surrounding him and his position. The row originated in intelligence assessments citing disorder involving some Maccabi Tel Aviv supporters in Amsterdam a year earlier, ahead of a match against Ajax. Dutch police have since said that provocation in that incident came from both sides, undermining the basis on which West Midlands Police had recommended excluding away fans from the Villa Park fixture. What do you think? Was Craig Guildford’s £57,800 payout a fair and necessary contractual settlement, or should the public purse be closed to police chiefs who leave under this kind of scrutiny? Let us know in the comments.

World of sport meets world of business

Sun, 19 Jul 2026 07:00:00 +0100

SPORTING businesses from across the world will be going head to head in Coventry and Warwickshire next month. The region will host the World Corporate Games – one of the largest corporate sporting festivals in the world, bringing together businesses of all sizes and sectors for four days of competition, networking and social activities – between August 20 and 23 Businesses from around the globe will travel to the region to compete, with international representatives already signed up from France, Spain, Mexico, Turkey and Romania. Participants can compete in up to 20 sports, including football, tennis, netball, volleyball, basketball, padel, golf, and dragon boat racing, with events taking place at venues across Coventry and Warwickshire with the University of Warwick as a hub. The games have been hosted in major cities including London, Geneva, Kuala Lumpur, Seville and Johannesburg since being founded in San Francisco in 1988, and will return to the UK for the first time since Liverpool hosted the event in 2014. Construction giant Balfour Beatty are headline sponsors and will be sending more than 400 employees to compete. Lee Hewitt, group business services director at Balfour Beatty, said: “The World Corporate Games reflects many of the things that matter most at Balfour Beatty – teamwork, wellbeing and bringing people together. “As headline sponsor and one of the Games’ largest participating teams, we’ve seen first-hand how the event helps colleagues build connections across the business, strengthen relationships and create a real sense of belonging.” Visit worldcorporategames.co for further details, including how to enter a team.

Under 25s in Warwickshire urged to have the MenB vacinnation

Sat, 18 Jul 2026 17:00:00 +0100

UNDER 25s in Warwickshire are being urged to have the new MenB vaccination. The new, time-limited Meningococcal group B bacteria (MenB) vaccine is being offered to all Year 13 students and under 25s across England and Wales, who are at higher risk. National government is rolling this vaccine out as part of a one-off programme, for the first time. Eligible students will need two doses of the MenB vaccination for protection, with the first dose being offered from late July and the second dose from August. Eligibility for this vaccination is open to young people currently in school Year 13 in England and Wales, all undergraduate freshers born on or after July 21 2001 who will be attending university for the first time in autumn 2026, and anyone born on or after July 21 2001 who will be living in further education accommodation or halls of residence for the first time in autumn 2026. International students under 25 entering their first year of university should receive their first dose in their home country where possible. Warwickshire County Council’s health spokesperson Coun Anne Marie-Sonko said: “It’s important that anyone eligible who is going to university or living in halls at a further education college for the first time gets both doses of the MenB vaccine. If you’re eligible, please don’t wait, get the protection you need before you leave home for university or college, book as soon as you can.” Two doses are needed for protection. The second dose of the vaccine should be given at least 28 days after the first, and it takes further two weeks for the body to build a good level of immunity. It’s important to have both vaccinations before the start of the autumn term. Protection lasts for at least five years. Where to get the vaccinations depends on age. Starting in July, students in the age group for Year 13, will be contacted by the NHS with a link to book a pharmacy appointment. University and residential further education students who are eligible will be able to arrange a walk-in vaccination at participating pharmacies. Signs and symptoms of meningitis include fever, a very bad headache, vomiting, stiff neck, dislike of bright lights, rash, confusion, delirium, severe sleepiness, losing consciousness and seizures. Visit ukhsa.blog.gov.uk/2026/06/12/who-is-eligible-forthe-new-one-off-menb-vaccine-programme/ for more details.

Ministers confirm ban on high caffeine energy drink sales to under 16s - NATIONAL NEWS

Sat, 18 Jul 2026 12:38:28 +0100

Shops, vending machines and websites in England will be barred from selling high caffeine energy drinks to anyone under 16 from April 2027, the government confirmed this week, in a move ministers say will protect children’s physical and mental wellbeing.

The Department of Health and Social Care and the Department for Education announced the ban on 16 July, following a public consultation that drew almost 1,100 responses from businesses, health bodies, enforcement agencies and members of the public. Officials say the responses showed strong backing for introducing an age limit on the drinks.

Health officials estimate that roughly 100,000 children across England drink heavily caffeinated energy drinks on a daily basis, and say a growing body of evidence links this to problems including anxiety, disrupted sleep, poor concentration and weaker academic performance. Children from poorer households and areas are said to be especially likely to consume the drinks, compounding existing health inequalities and setbacks to their learning. Public Health Minister Sharon Hodgson said the drinks had no place in the hands of children, arguing that daily consumption by so many young people was clearly linked to anxiety and disruption to sleep, focus and schooling. She described the ban as central to the government’s ambition to raise the healthiest generation of children on record. Education Minister Olivia Bailey said restricting access to the drinks would help protect pupils’ health and ability to concentrate in class, and pointed to it as complementing separate government plans to reform school food for the first time in more than ten years. Under the new rules, any soft drink other than tea or coffee containing more than 150mg of caffeine per litre will be covered by the restriction. The ban will apply to shops, vending machines and online retailers, though sales between businesses will not be affected. Enforcement will fall to local authorities, while shopkeepers and retailers will carry responsibility for ensuring the drinks are not sold to under 16s. Firms that breach the rules could face fines of as much as £2,500. The government intends to introduce the change through secondary legislation under the Food Safety Act 1990, with the restriction due to take effect in April 2027 once it clears Parliament. Campaigners welcomed the announcement but urged ministers to move quickly. Katharine Jenner of the Obesity Health Alliance called the policy popular with parents, health professionals and the wider public, and said it marked a genuine step toward safeguarding children’s health, while pressing the government to now secure parliamentary approval and ensure enforcement is effective in time for the 2027 start date. Barbara Crowther of the Children’s Food Campaign at Sustain said the evidence of harm to children’s physical, mental and dental health was overwhelming, and noted that the ban comes two years after Labour first pledged to act, during which time she estimated close to 300 million more high caffeine energy drinks had been sold to children. She called for the legislation to be brought before Parliament without further delay. Nineteen year old Bite Back youth activist Carrera said young people had long been raising concerns about how normalised the drinks had become in schools, on school journeys and through social media influencers and sport, describing them as having effectively become playground currency. She said the timing was particularly significant, coming as many pupils had just finished sitting exams. Sarah Muckle, policy co-lead for children and young people at the Association of Directors of Public Health and director of public health for Essex County Council, said energy drinks carried real risks for children including tooth decay, disrupted sleep and a heightened risk of high blood pressure, and that restricting access would be especially beneficial for children in the most deprived communities. The ban forms part of a wider package of measures aimed at tackling childhood obesity and improving children’s health, alongside plans to extend the Soft Drinks Industry Levy, introduce supervised toothbrushing for three to five year olds in deprived areas, and impose tighter restrictions on where less healthy food can be displayed in shops, included in multibuy promotions, or advertised at times when children are likely to be watching. The consultation that preceded the announcement ran from 3 September to 26 November 2025 and attracted 1,095 responses in total.

Main Image: For illustration purposes only.

Border Force Warns Young Holidaymakers Over Drug Smuggling Gangs

Sat, 18 Jul 2026 12:26:37 +0100

Officials are urging young Britons travelling abroad this summer to be on guard against criminal networks offering free trips in exchange for smuggling cannabis into the UK.

Border Force says gangs are increasingly using popular social media apps to build relationships with young people before persuading or pressuring them into acting as drug couriers, often disguising the arrangement as a generous gift of flights, luxury hotels and spending money.

The scale of the problem has grown sharply. Officers recorded just 142 cannabis smugglers arriving by air in 2023, a figure that climbed to 976 last year. In the first half of 2026 alone, 600 passengers were arrested at UK airports on suspicion of carrying cannabis, with young men travelling from Thailand forming the largest single group. Recent graduates, first-time flyers and those offered suspiciously cheap holidays by new acquaintances are said to be particular targets, chosen because they are less likely to recognise the danger signs. With the school and university holidays now under way, Border Force officers are stepping up efforts at airports to speak directly to travellers about the tactics used by traffickers. Five warning signs to watch for Border Force has issued the following guidance for anyone travelling this summer:

Be wary of unusually generous offers. Free or heavily discounted flights, hotels and spending money, especially for trips to places where cannabis is legal such as Thailand, Canada and some US states, should raise immediate suspicion.
Only carry your own luggage. Anyone who is asked to transport someone else’s bag, or told not to check its contents, should treat this as a serious red flag. Travellers can still be prosecuted even if they were unaware drugs were hidden in their belongings.
Watch out for contact via social media. Platforms including TikTok, Snapchat and Instagram are commonly used by gangs to approach potential couriers. Officials advise blocking and reporting any such contact.
Never hand over your passport. Requests to hold a traveller’s passport, sometimes framed as part of a booking arrangement, can be a means of exerting control, including using it to check in luggage without the traveller’s knowledge.
Remember that legality abroad does not mean legality at home. Cannabis being legal in the destination country does not make it legal to bring into the UK, and attempting to do so remains a serious criminal offence.

Consequences can last a lifetime Kate Goldstone, Border Force’s lead officer for safeguarding, said criminal gangs profit from exploiting young people while leaving them to bear the consequences alone. She said the guiding principle for travellers should be that offers which seem too good to be true usually are, and warned that a single poor decision before a trip can result in a criminal record, a prison term and years of missed opportunities. Those convicted of smuggling cannabis face up to 14 years in prison, a criminal record and travel restrictions that can affect future job prospects and education, regardless of how they came to be involved. Seizures reflect the growing scale of the trade: Border Force recovered 2.1 tonnes of cannabis from air passengers in 2022, a figure that has since risen to more than 28 tonnes in 2025, an increase of 50% in the past year alone. While Thailand remains a particular concern, authorities note that criminal networks can operate in any country where cannabis is legal or easily obtained, including parts of Europe, Canada and the United States. The warning coincides with a new joint crackdown between the UK and Thailand, under which British nationals caught trying to smuggle cannabis out of the country face average fines of about £17,700 or a prison sentence of up to two years. Anyone who is approached and asked to carry cannabis or other illegal drugs is encouraged to report it to local police, consular officials, or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Main Image: For illustration purposes only.

Hot cars, hot luggage: why where you store your medicines matters this summer

Sat, 18 Jul 2026 12:14:49 +0100

Medicines watchdog warns holidaymakers: heat can weaken your treatments

Britain’s medicines regulator has issued a fresh warning this summer, telling the public that a sun soaked car, an overstuffed suitcase, or a bathroom shelf could all be quietly damaging the medicines they rely on.

The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) published the guidance on 17 July 2026, as part of a wider campaign called “Summer-proof your health.”

The regulator points out an irony familiar to many travellers, people carefully pack sun cream and check their passport twice, yet think nothing of leaving tablets or liquid medicines somewhere hot for hours on end. With school holidays underway and temperatures climbing, officials are asking the public to treat their medicine cabinet with the same care as the rest of their packing list. The science behind the warning Most medicines are formulated to be kept below 25°C, and the MHRA warns that higher temperatures can weaken their effectiveness over time. Not every medicine needs the fridge; some are fine at normal room temperature, but the rules differ from product to product. The regulator singles out insulin, some types of inhaler, skin treatment creams, and certain contraceptives as examples where correct storage is especially important. It isn’t only drugs that are affected. Devices used to manage health conditions, such as blood glucose meters and insulin test strips, can also be sensitive to heat, and the MHRA advises checking the manufacturer’s instructions for each individual product rather than assuming one rule applies to everything. “Far hotter than people expect” Dr Alison Cave, the MHRA’s Chief Safety Officer, explained that spaces such as a parked car, a packed suitcase, a caravan, or a sun facing room can reach temperatures well beyond what most people anticipate, and that this heat can compromise how certain medicines perform. She said taking a few minutes to read the storage guidance and store medicines properly can make the difference between a treatment working as intended and one that has quietly lost potency. The regulator’s practical advice The MHRA is asking people to take several simple precautions this summer:

Read the patient information leaflet, or the packaging itself, for storage guidance, noting that these leaflets can also be found on the MHRA’s website. Some products need cooling, others need to be shielded from light or warmth.
Never leave medicines sitting in a hot car or a suitcase left in the sun, especially while travelling.
At home, keep medicines somewhere cool, dry, and shaded from sunlight, steering clear of bathrooms and anywhere near a heat source.
If in doubt about how something should be stored, or if a medicine may already have been left somewhere too hot, ask a pharmacist for guidance.

The agency also wants anyone who suspects a medicine is not working properly to raise it with a pharmacist or GP, and to file a report through its Yellow Card scheme, which logs suspected problems with medicines and devices. Additional advice on medicines, medical devices, and staying well in warm weather is being published throughout the summer as part of the MHRA’s ongoing campaign, available via its website. About the regulator The MHRA is the UK body tasked with regulating medicines and medical devices, with a remit to ensure that products on the market are both effective and hold an acceptable level of safety. It operates as an executive agency under the Department of Health and Social Care, and describes its decisions as grounded in evidence based assessment, weighing the benefits of a treatment against its potential risks.

Main Image: For illustration purposes only.

Burnham Set to Back New North Sea Drilling as He Takes Over as Prime Minister - NATIONAL NEWS

Sat, 18 Jul 2026 09:10:48 +0100

Andy Burnham is expected to unveil plans for new oil and gas drilling in the North Sea as one of his first acts as prime minister, according to reporting by the BBC.

The announcement is expected once Burnham formally takes charge of the government on Monday.

The move would represent a significant break from the position Labour took into the 2024 general election, when the party’s manifesto ruled out issuing new drilling licences while committing to honour those already granted. Burnham has previously said he intends to govern in line with that manifesto, making any shift on North Sea policy a notable early test of his approach. Rosebank and Jackdaw at the centre of the row Two North Sea fields, Rosebank and Jackdaw, sit at the heart of the dispute. Regulators approved both under the Conservative government, Rosebank in 2022 and Jackdaw in 2023, but the approvals were quashed in 2025 following a legal challenge. According to the BBC, public consultations on both projects were launched only days before Burnham’s expected handover, meaning a formal decision may not be possible until those consultations conclude. The BBC also reports that Burnham’s plans, alongside the drilling announcement, are set to include bringing water and energy companies under greater public control and launching a new council house building programme, as he seeks to mark an early departure from his predecessor’s agenda. Industry and political pressure to change course Support for expanding North Sea extraction has been building from several directions. Shortly before the Labour leadership nominations closed, oil and gas companies and trade unions wrote to Burnham and other Labour MPs urging them to back the North Sea industry, framing continued support as a signal that Britain remains committed to domestic production and manufacturing, and to the workers and regions that have relied on the sector for generations, the BBC reported. Offshore Energies UK, the industry’s trade body, has separately told the Scotsman that Burnham faces a “critical moment” in the energy transition and has pressed him to support both oil and gas and renewables together. The organisation’s energy policy director said the sector had endured a difficult period marked by job losses and a reduced domestic supply, blaming what he described as a difficult fiscal and regulatory environment. Kemi Badenoch, the Conservative leader, has gone further, describing the current restrictions on the sector as an “anti-oil and gas, anti-British” policy that she has pledged to reverse should she become prime minister. She has accused Labour of treating the North Sea as a relic of the past, while David Whitehouse, chief executive of Offshore Energies UK, has argued the UK should be producing its own oil and gas. US President Donald Trump has also repeatedly criticised Labour’s approach, arguing that Britain is needlessly restricting its own energy supplies, according to reporting by Time. Within the Labour Party itself, some MPs have pushed for a more permissive approach, warning that moving away from oil and gas too quickly risks jobs and higher energy bills. Others have defended the existing manifesto commitment, arguing that expanding renewable energy is essential to energy security and to limiting the impact of climate change. Current Energy Secretary Ed Miliband, tipped for a senior role in Burnham’s cabinet, has been among the strongest defenders of Labour’s original position, having previously called the Rosebank licence “climate vandalism.” Green Party co-leader Zack Polanski has also criticised Burnham’s more open stance on fossil fuels, arguing the case for ending North Sea drilling for good remains unanswered. How Burnham becomes prime minister Burnham’s path to Downing Street began after Sir Keir Starmer announced his resignation as prime minister and Labour leader following weeks of pressure from within his own party. Starmer said he had informed King Charles of his decision but agreed to remain in post as a caretaker until a successor was chosen, with nominations for the Labour leadership opening shortly afterwards. Burnham, who had left his role as Mayor of Greater Manchester to contest and win the Makerfield by-election, entered the contest as the clear frontrunner. He went on to secure the backing of 379 Labour MPs as well as all 11 trade unions affiliated with the party, allowing him to be confirmed as Labour’s new leader without a contested vote. As leader of the party best placed to command a majority in the House of Commons, Burnham is now expected to be formally appointed prime minister by King Charles, in keeping with the UK’s usual constitutional process, once Starmer tenders his resignation to the King. That handover is expected to take place on Monday, at which point Burnham will succeed Starmer at 10 Downing Street. Burnham has said he is finalising the make-up of his top cabinet posts ahead of taking office.

All are welcome at Warwick Folk Festival

Sat, 18 Jul 2026 08:01:00 +0100

WARWICK Folk Festival welcomes everyone – and that’s official.
It has been awarded a bronze from the Live Events Access Charter – recognising the festival’s commitment to making it as accessible and inclusive as possible.
The festival returns to Castle Park next week, from July 23 to 26, featuring top roots music names including Fisherman’s Friends, Eddie Reader, Natalie McMaster and Donnell Leahy, and Spiers and Boden.
Festival director Dick Dixon said: “We’ve delighted that the festival has achieved this important milestone. We remain committed to listening and learning and welcome feedback and ideas from our community on how we can continue to make the festival more accessible and welcoming for everyone.
“We are gearing up for a spectacular festival. If you haven’t booked tickets yet, then I strongly urge you to do. “May the craic be mighty and the music never end!”
Visitors will once again be able to enjoy a packed programme of concerts, sing-arounds, dance, intimate acoustic performances and full-on gigs.
Visit www.warwickfolkfestival.co.uk for tickets and full festival details.

Burnham to Enter Downing Street on Monday as Britain's Seventh PM in a Decade - NATIONAL NEWS

Fri, 17 Jul 2026 17:56:49 +0100

Andy Burnham will be sworn in as prime minister on Monday, taking over from Sir Keir Starmer following an audience with King Charles.

His arrival in Downing Street will make him the seventh person to lead the country in a decade.

Burnham was confirmed as Labour leader on Friday after securing the backing of 379 of the party’s MPs and all 11 trade unions affiliated with Labour, cementing his position as the sole candidate in the contest. A rapid path back to power Burnham’s rise has been swift. Until last month he held no seat in the House of Commons, having stepped down as an MP in 2017 to become mayor of Greater Manchester. His return to Westminster was engineered when a Labour ally, Josh Simons, resigned his Makerfield seat, triggering a by-election that Burnham went on to win. Under the rules governing metro mayors who also hold police and crime commissioner powers, his election as an MP automatically disqualified him from the mayoralty, and his deputy, Paul Dennett, took over as interim mayor. That victory, coming on the back of heavy Labour losses in May’s local elections, intensified pressure on Sir Keir from his own backbenchers. Sir Keir announced his resignation as party leader shortly afterwards, saying he no longer believed he was the right person to lead Labour into the next general election. Labour has trailed Nigel Farage’s Reform UK in the polls for roughly eighteen months, and many in the party are hoping that Burnham, a longstanding advocate for the north of England, can halt the slide. Cabinet still being decided Speaking to reporters on Friday, Burnham said he had not yet finalised the make-up of his top team, arguing that setting out appointments before formally taking office would be disruptive. He said his choices would reflect the breadth of the party and the country, and that the full line-up would be announced on Monday. Speculation has focused on Ed Miliband and Shabana Mahmood as possible successors to Rachel Reeves as chancellor, though nothing has been confirmed. Devolution and social care at the centre of his message In his first speech as party leader, delivered at the TUC’s central London headquarters, Burnham promised to restore “hope” to working class communities and pledged to shift power away from Westminster and towards the regions, a theme that has run through his campaign from the outset. He was critical of the economic approach pursued by successive governments over the past four decades, including those he served in, and said his administration would prioritise “problem solving rather than point scoring”. He also appealed for party unity, warning that Labour could not defeat the resurgent right if it remained divided. Away from the podium, he told reporters that reforming England’s social care system would be an early priority, describing it as an area that governments of all stripes have avoided tackling. He linked the issue to his own family’s experience, noting that his father has Alzheimer’s. Because social care is a devolved matter, any changes he pursues would apply to England only. Burnham has pressed for an overhaul of the sector before. As health secretary under Gordon Brown, he set out plans shortly before the 2010 election for a National Care Service that would have been free at the point of use. Debt record in Manchester Burnham’s tenure as mayor has also drawn scrutiny as he prepares to take office. Government figures show the Greater Manchester Combined Authority’s outstanding borrowing stood at £1.34 billion at the end of the last financial year, up from £964 million before he became mayor in 2017, the largest debt of any combined authority in England. Adjusted for population, that works out at £462 per resident, the second highest of any combined authority nationally. The bulk of the borrowing has gone towards capital projects, including the Bee Network integrated transport system and housing and regeneration schemes. Shadow housing minister Sir James Cleverly said Burnham was leaving behind an authority “weighed down” by debt while proposing similar spending plans in national government. A spokesperson for the Greater Manchester Combined Authority defended its financial position, pointing to the scale of the region’s devolution deal, which involves annual spending of more than £3 billion. Political reaction The response from opponents was swift. Conservative Party chairman Kevin Hollinrake called on Burnham to recall Parliament, which is in recess until September, so that MPs could question him on his plans. Linda Hobson of Unison, one of the unions that backed Burnham’s leadership bid, urged him to deliver on the optimism he has promised to bring to government. Burnham used part of his speech to pay tribute to Sir Keir, crediting him with strengthening workers’ and renters’ rights, reducing NHS waiting lists and returning rail services to public ownership. Full details of his cabinet, and the policy priorities he intends to pursue in office, are expected once he formally takes charge on Monday.

Free family fun lined up at Stratford's Waterside Summer Festival

Fri, 17 Jul 2026 17:00:00 +0100

FOOD, shopping and entertainment are promised at Stratford’s Waterside Summer Festival. Families are invited to enjoy three free days of fun from Tuesday July 21 to Thursday July 23. There will be more than 90 artisan traders, food vendors and independent businesses lining Waterside, alongside a programme of free family entertainment inspired by the spirit of the Commonwealth Games. Families can test their skills on an inflatable penalty shootout, take on cycling and rowing challenges with Stratford Leisure Centre, enjoy gymnastics and dance performances from JNB Dance & Gymnastics Academy, and join in with a range of fun “Have a Go” activities including badminton, swingball and bowling. For youngsters there will be face painting, the chance to meet daily entertainers Captain Cheer and Celebration Athlete, take part in mini sporting challenges, hunt for hidden medals around the market, and enter a special drawing competition with prizes up for grabs. Independent traders will be offering everything from handcrafted jewellery, fused glass art and handmade homeware to artisan skincare, fashion accessories and sustainable gifts. Food lovers will be spoilt for choice with a selection of street food from around the world. Siobhan Noake, Head of Brand for LSD Promotions said: “We’re delighted to be bringing the Waterside Summer Festival to Stratford for three fantastic days this summer. We’ve created an event that celebrates community, encourages families to get active and provides plenty of opportunities to shop local and support independent businesses. Best of all, it’s completely free to attend, making it the perfect day out during the school holidays.” For more information visit the LSD Promotions website.

New plan to support businesses in Warwickshire

Fri, 17 Jul 2026 15:00:00 +0100

BUSINESSES and residents in Warwickshire will have access to the skills they need to help boost economic growth in the region following the Government signing off on a new major plan. The Warwickshire Local Skills Improvement Plan (LSIP) has been developed following months of consultation with around 700 organisations across the county and is based on the skills required for growth and to bridge the gaps in training provision. Warwickshire’s LSIP has been led by Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce and is supported by Warwickshire County Council through the Warwickshire Skills Hub, and Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce. The new plan links directly to the Warwickshire Employment and Skills Strategy which is a comprehensive framework to align local skills provision with business demand and promote sustainable economic growth. Through a series of surveys, events and one-to-one conversations with businesses, the LSIP sets out five priorities that will revolutionise the skills system in the area and meet local economic needs. Firstly, the plan seeks to strengthen leadership and management capability in the region to help support growth through a range of actions from a clear and visible ‘front door’ for training through to the development of modular courses. The second priority is to build digital, data and AI confidence to support technology adoption to include work-integrated digital and AI training as well as the creation of digital champions and peer-learning networks. Next, the LSIP aims to develop a future ready workforce through enhanced work readiness and entry pathways which would include mapping clear and coherent pathways into employment and embedding work-readiness and foundational employability skills across all stages of training provision. The fourth priority seeks to expand flexible, modular and accessible training to reduce participation barriers, which would include finding different methods for training delivery. The final priority is fundamental to the success of the LSIP and sets out plans to improve system navigation, visibility and co-design across the skills ecosystem through Warwickshire Skills Hub. Each priority cuts across a range of sectors within the economy including manufacturing, construction, health & social care, hospitality, digital & tech and agriculture & land. Corin Crane, chief executive of the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, said: “Our team has spent months talking to businesses and organisations about skills shortages that are holding back growth, where they feel training provision is lacking and, crucially, the solutions they wanted to see. “This second Local Skills Improvement Plan for the region has put the future of skills and training in the hands of local employers by listening to their needs and identifying actions that will help them to ensure their staff have the skills to meet today’s challenges and those to come. “We are thrilled that this plan has now received sign off from Government and that we can now start to put the plan into practice to help the regional economy to grow faster and more sustainably.” Coun Rob Howard, Portfolio Holder for Economy and Rural Development at Warwickshire County Council, said: “Warwickshire is undergoing significant change in the employment and skills landscape as we shape a new, more responsive local skills system. “In this context, it is important that the Local Skills Improvement Plan reflects the needs of Warwickshire’s economy, residents, employers, and communities, while aligning with the Warwickshire Employment and Skills Strategy, the Get Warwickshire Working Plan, and the ambitions of devolution. “The Council welcomes the opportunity to contribute to the next phase of the Warwickshire Local Skills Improvement Plan and recognises its important role in strengthening the relationship between employers, providers, local government, and wider partners. “We value the positive impact that the Warwickshire Local Skills Improvement Plan can have in helping to identify priorities, inform investment and strengthen the skills system for the benefit of employers, learners and communities across the county. “We support the ongoing development of the Warwickshire Local Skills Improvement Plan and look forward to continuing to work with Skills England and local partners such as the Chamber of Commerce to deliver shared ambitions for employment, skills and economic growth.”

FOOTBALL - Racing Club Warwick to start season with Peterborough Sports at home as 2026/27 fixtures released

Fri, 17 Jul 2026 14:00:56 +0100

NEWLY-PROMOTED Racing Club Warwick will mark their first season back at Step Three with a home game against Peterborough Sports.

The Southern League released the fixtures for the 2026/27 season with the Racers back at Step Three in the Premier Central division for the first time in 23 years.

And the Racers will entertain Peterborough Sports, who suffered relegation from the National League North last term, at Townsend Meadow on Saturday, August 8 in their first home game of the campaign. Warwick then travel to Banbury United on Tuesday, August 11 in the club's first away game of the season. The Racers close out the first month of the campaign with a trip to Stamford (August 15), a home game against Hitchin Town (August 22), a trip to Alvechurch (August 29) and a home clash with Stratford Town (August 31). Warwick play three league games in September with Worcester City to visit Townsend Meadow (September 29) at the end of the month. And the Racers play seven league games in October which includes entertaining Halesowen Town (October 20) before travelling to Sixways Stadium to face Worcester the following month (November 10). Warwick play four games in December with Stourbridge to visit Townsend Meadow in the club's final game before Christmas (December 19). And a blockbuster derby clash with local rivals Leamington awaits on Boxing Day (December 26) as the Racers host the Brakes in the club's final game of 2026. Warwick begin the New Year with a trip to Stratford (January 2) before hosting Leighton Town in their first home game of 2027 (January 9). The Racers play four games in February and five in March with the Racers to visit rivals Leamington in a derby clash in the club's penultimate away game of the season (March 29). The final month of the campaign sees the Racers host Alvechurch (April 3), make the trip to Kettering Town (April 10) before Warwick entertain Needham Market (April 17) on the final day of the season. For a full list of the club's fixtures, click HERE

Top Tips for Getting Better at Competitive Video Games

Fri, 17 Jul 2026 13:25:50 +0100

IMPROVEMENT in competitive games rarely comes from playing more hours alone. Two players can log the same number of matches over a month and end up in completely different places, and the difference usually comes down to a handful of habits around the actual playtime rather than the playtime itself. Platforms like Bizbet track live updates and account activity the same way a lot of modern gaming tools do, which says something about how much competitive improvement now runs through data and tracking rather than instinct alone. A closer look at what actually helps, one habit at a time. Tip 1: Warm Up Before Queuing Into Ranked Jumping straight into a ranked match cold tends to produce worse decision-making and slower reactions for the first several minutes, sometimes the whole game. A short warm-up routine — aim training, a few rounds against bots, a practice mode rep or two — gets reaction time and mechanics closer to a working baseline before anything actually counts. Fifteen minutes of deliberate warm-up tends to prevent far more losses than it costs in time. Tip 2: Review Recorded Matches Instead of Just Playing More Most mistakes repeat because they never get noticed in the moment. Recording matches and reviewing a handful of losses each week, specifically looking for the decision that led to a bad outcome rather than just the outcome itself, surfaces patterns that are almost invisible while actually playing. This single habit tends to produce faster improvement than a much larger volume of unreviewed matches. Tip 3: Practice Mechanics in Isolation Ranked matches are a poor place to build a specific mechanical skill, since a single bad round gets buried in dozens of other variables. Isolating one mechanic — a particular movement pattern, a specific combo, an aiming routine — in a practice mode or custom lobby, repeated deliberately outside of ranked pressure, tends to build that skill faster than hoping it improves naturally through normal play. Tip 4: Check Settings Before Blaming Skill Sensitivity, keybinds, display settings, and input latency all shape performance more than most players give them credit for. A setup copied from a professional player without adjustment often fits that player's habits, not the person copying them. Testing a few configurations deliberately, rather than assuming default settings are already optimal, removes a layer of friction that has nothing to do with actual skill or game knowledge. Tip 5: Track Progress With Data, Not Just a Feeling Win rate alone hides a lot of useful detail. Tracking more specific numbers — accuracy, objective control, survival time, whatever metric matters most in a given game — over weeks rather than single sessions shows real trends that a gut sense of “playing well” or “playing badly” tends to miss entirely. A rough patch over a few games often looks a lot less alarming once plotted against a full month of data. Tip 6: Build a Tilt Reset Routine A string of losses affects decision-making long after the specific frustration fades, and most competitive players underestimate how much worse their own play gets during that stretch. A short, consistent break after a couple of losses in a row — stepping away for ten minutes rather than immediately queuing again — tends to prevent a short losing streak from turning into a much longer one driven mostly by frustration rather than actual mistakes. Tip 7: Study the Meta Without Copying It Blindly Following patch notes, high-level match footage, and community discussion around what's currently strong is useful. Copying a strategy wholesale without understanding why it works is less useful, since it tends to fall apart the moment an opponent deviates from the expected script. Understanding the reasoning behind a strong strategy travels a lot further than memorizing the strategy itself. Tip 8: Treat Breaks as Part of the Practice, Not a Break From It Long, uninterrupted sessions tend to produce diminishing returns well before they end, with focus and reaction time both quietly declining long before it becomes obvious. Structured breaks — a set number of matches followed by an actual pause — tend to produce more consistent performance across a full session than pushing straight through fatigue. The Habits at a Glance A quick side-by-side of where each habit fits and how much time it actually takes: Habit Focus Area Typical Time Cost Habit - Warm-up routine Focus Area- Reaction time, mechanics Typical Time Cost - 10–15 minutes before playing Habit - Match review Focus Area - Decision-making Typical Time Cost - 20–30 minutes, a few times a week Habit - Isolated mechanic practice Focus Area - Specific skills Typical Time Cost - 10–20 minutes per session Habit - Settings check Focus Area - Input consistency Typical Time Cost - One-time setup, occasional revisits Habit - Progress tracking Focus Area - Long-term trends Typical Time Cost - A few minutes after each session Habit - Tilt reset routine Focus Area - Mental consistency Typical Time Cost - 5–10 minutes after a loss streak Habit - Meta study Focus Area - Strategic understanding Typical Time Cost - Ongoing, light and regular Habit - Structured breaks Focus Area - Focus and fatigue Typical Time Cost - 5–10 minutes every hour or so A Quick Checklist Before the Next Session ● A short warm-up completed before queuing into a ranked match ● At least one recent loss reviewed for the decision behind it, not just the result ● A specific mechanic practiced in isolation, outside of ranked pressure ● Settings and keybinds checked rather than assumed to already be optimal ● Progress tracked with real numbers, reviewed over weeks rather than single sessions ● A reset routine ready for the next rough patch, rather than queuing straight through it Bringing the Habits Together Most of these habits work better when they're easy to maintain consistently rather than requiring extra setup every session. The same mobile-first convenience that's reshaped a lot of gaming tools recently is perfectly reflected in a Bizbet download apk, offering quick access, centralized activity, and less friction between deciding to check something and actually checking it. Final Thoughts None of these eight habits require unusual talent or hours nobody else has access to. What separates steady improvement from a plateau is usually just consistency applied to a few of these habits at once, rather than volume alone. Warm-ups, review sessions, isolated mechanical practice, and a clear-headed approach to losing streaks tend to compound over weeks in a way raw playtime by itself never quite manages. Article by Emily Spencer

FOOTBALL - Leamington to start season with Real Bedford trip as 2026/27 fixtures released

Fri, 17 Jul 2026 13:00:40 +0100

LEAMINGTON will begin life back in the Southern League with a trip to Real Bedford on the opening day of the season.

The Southern League released the fixtures for the 2026/27 season with Leamington back in the Premier Central division following relegation from the National League North last term.

And the Brakes will begin the campaign away at last season's beaten play-off finalists Real Bedford on Saturday, August 8. Scott Easterlow's side will then welcome newly-promoted Anstey Nomads to the Your Co-op Community Stadium on Tuesday, August 11 in the club's first home game of the season. Leamington close out the first month of the campaign with a home game against Kettering Town (August 15), a trip to Bury Town (August 22), a home match against Worcester City (August 29) and a trip to Stourbridge (August 31). The Brakes play three league games in September with Halesowen Town to visit the Your Co-op Community Stadium (September 22) in the club's only home game of the month. And Leamington play seven league games in October which includes a trip to Stratford Town (October 10). The Brakes play five games in November and four in December with Leamington on the road at Hitchin Town (December 19) in the club's last game before Christmas. And a blockbuster derby clash with local rivals Racing Club Warwick awaits on Boxing Day (December 26) as the Brakes head to Townsend Meadow in their final game of 2026. Leamington begin the New Year with a home game against Stourbridge (January 2) before hosting Stratford later in the month (January 16). The Brakes play four games in February and five games in March with Leamington to host rivals Warwick in a derby clash in the club's penultimate home game of the season (March 29). The final month of the campaign sees the Brakes head to Worcester City (April 3), make the trip to Alvechurch (April 10) before Leamington entertain Leighton Town (April 17) on the final day of the season. For a full list of the club's fixtures, click HERE

Gold Price Forecast: What the Record Run Means for UK Savers and Investors

Fri, 17 Jul 2026 12:05:49 +0100

GOLD has rarely been out of the headlines lately, and for good reason. After a remarkable climb to record levels and a stretch of sharp volatility, the yellow metal has once again reminded everyone why it remains the ultimate safe haven asset. For UK savers and investors watching from Leamington to London, the big question is a simple one: where does gold go from here, and what does the forecast mean for ordinary people trying to protect and grow their money? Let us look at the drivers, the outlook and the sensible way to think about it all. First, it helps to understand why gold behaves the way it does. Unlike shares, gold pays no dividend, and unlike a savings account, it earns no interest; its value rests entirely on the confidence investors place in it as a store of wealth. When people worry about inflation, geopolitical tension or instability in the financial system, demand for gold tends to rise. That is precisely the environment we have seen, with global uncertainty and shifting expectations around interest rates pushing many investors towards the perceived security of the metal. A major force behind gold's strength has been central bank buying. Around the world, central banks have been adding gold to their reserves as a way of diversifying away from currencies, and this steady structural demand has provided a powerful floor under the price. Combined with investor appetite during uncertain times, it has helped drive gold to historic highs. For UK investors, this matters because it suggests the demand supporting gold is not purely speculative, but rooted in decisions taken by some of the largest financial institutions on the planet. The relationship between gold and interest rates is central to any forecast, and it is especially relevant for British savers. When rates are high, holding gold becomes relatively less attractive because cash and bonds offer a return; when markets expect rates to fall, gold tends to benefit. With the Bank of England's decisions feeding directly into savings rates and mortgage costs, the interplay between monetary policy and the gold price is something UK investors follow closely. Anyone weighing the metal up should keep an eye on the gold price forecast while remembering that no projection is a guarantee. For UK investors specifically, there are several ways to gain exposure, each with its own trade offs. There is physical gold, such as coins and bars, which carries storage and insurance considerations; there are exchange traded funds that track the price without the need to hold metal; and there are derivative products that let you trade price movements, often with leverage that magnifies both gains and losses. British investors also have the option of certain gold coins that come with particular tax treatments, though rules vary and personal circumstances matter, so professional advice is wise. It is important to inject a note of realism into any forecast, however tempting the record highs may be. Gold does not rise forever; after strong rallies it can suffer sharp corrections, and anyone buying at the top can find themselves nursing losses. The recent volatility proves the point: even the ultimate safe haven swings, sometimes violently, and treating it as a one way bet is a mistake. A forecast is a scenario, not a promise, and the honest truth is that gold's path depends on factors no one can predict with certainty. This is why many advisers frame gold as a diversifier rather than a core holding. Rather than betting the house on the metal, investors often hold a modest allocation as a hedge, a counterweight to more volatile assets like shares. Historically, gold has tended to behave differently from equities and bonds, which is what makes it useful for smoothing out the ups and downs of a broader portfolio. For the typical UK saver, that measured approach, a slice of gold within a balanced strategy, tends to make far more sense than chasing the headlines. There is also a psychological dimension that UK savers should be aware of. When gold is soaring and headlines celebrate fresh record highs, the fear of missing out can push people to buy at exactly the wrong moment, near the top; when prices tumble, panic can drive them to sell at the bottom. Recognising these emotional traps, and resisting the urge to act on them, is one of the quieter skills of successful investing. Gold, precisely because it attracts so much attention at extremes, tends to expose these behavioural weaknesses more than most assets. In conclusion, the gold price forecast points to a metal that remains firmly in the spotlight, supported by central bank demand, safe haven appetite and expectations around interest rates. But for UK savers and investors, the key lesson is balance. Understand why gold moves, watch the forecasts with healthy scepticism, choose the form of exposure that suits your goals, and never forget that even safe havens carry risk. In an uncertain world gold continues to shine; but those who view it with clear eyes, rather than starry ones, are usually the ones who use it well. It also helps to keep gold in historical perspective. Over the decades the metal has enjoyed spectacular bull runs and endured long, frustrating stretches where its price went nowhere or fell back. Those who understand this longer arc are less likely to be seduced by the idea that the current direction, whatever it happens to be, will simply continue forever. For UK savers building wealth over years rather than weeks, that sense of history is a valuable antidote to the breathless tone of much day to day market commentary

Fundraiser launched as Warwickshire youngster fights rare form of blood cancer

Fri, 17 Jul 2026 12:00:00 +0100

MELLY from Rugby was once a fit and healthy 11-year-old who never needed a doctor but now she is fighting Burkitt lymphoma – a rare type of blood cancer. She is currently in the ICU at Birmingham Children’s Hospital, and will face five months of chemotherapy. Her family’s “greatest hope” is that Melly will be cancer free by Christmas. Melly’s auntie Emma is raising thousands to help her sister Nikki cover her travel costs to be by her daughter’s side. She said: “As you can imagine, this heartbreaking diagnosis has completely turned my sister’s world upside down. Every moment is now spent by Melly’s side, supporting her through treatment and trying to stay strong for her. Alongside the emotional heartbreak comes the financial strain of hospital stays, travelling, parking, meals, time away from work, and the many unexpected costs that come with having a child in hospital. “I’m setting up this fundraiser to help take some of that pressure away so my sister and her family can focus entirely on what matters most, helping Melly beat cancer. “Any donation, no matter how big or small, will make a huge difference and will be appreciated more than words can say.” Visit www.gofundme.com/f/melly-in-birmingham-childrens-hospital to donate.

Surprising win for the Greens in Leamington town by-election

Fri, 17 Jul 2026 10:58:14 +0100

THE GREEN Party have pulled off a surprising win in the Leamington Clarendon town by-election. The party finished fourth in the town centre ward as recently as last September, but the Green candidate Kiran Crawford was elected on Thursday July 16 in a tight contest. The margin of victory was just 23 votes, ahead of the Lib Dems with Labour down into third place. Coun Kiran Crawford said: "Thank you to everyone who came out to vote and for the other parties for being fair and respectful. I will serve as a councillor in the way I campaigned - positive, practical and committed to supporting all our communities in Clarendon." The by-election was called after a Labour town councillor resigned due to ill health.

IMF Cautions Andy Burnham Against Expanding Public Spending - NATIONAL NEWS

Fri, 17 Jul 2026 08:28:18 +0100

Fund tells incoming prime minister to prioritise deficit reduction over tax increases.

The International Monetary Fund has issued a warning to Andy Burnham, urging Britain’s incoming prime minister to resist pressure for increased public spending and instead concentrate on narrowing the government’s deficit.

In its latest assessment of the UK economy, the Washington based institution said ministers should be highly selective about approving new spending commitments, pointing to mounting debt, rising interest costs, and the growing financial burden of healthcare and pensions as the population ages. The intervention comes just as Mr Burnham prepares to deliver a speech on Friday, at the conference where he will formally become Labour leader, in which he is expected to commit to a distinctly Labour approach that could involve higher taxation and spending. He is expected to argue that the country needs to break from an economic direction it has followed for roughly four decades. Nationalisation speculation Reports have also suggested Mr Burnham could move quickly to bring Thames Water under public ownership shortly after taking office, amid growing speculation about the future of the struggling utility company. According to Bloomberg, his team has instructed civil servants to prepare policy options covering both energy and water. Estimates suggest nationalising Thames Water alone could cost around £20 billion. Fund recommends reallocation, not expansion While acknowledging the need for greater investment in defence and climate related policy, the IMF advised against further tax rises, warning these could harm economic growth. Its report followed Mr Burnham’s own admission, made a day earlier, that he was open to asking the public to contribute “a little more” through taxation. The Fund said any future spending reviews should prioritise shifting resources between government departments rather than increasing overall expenditure, and recommended reforms such as replacing the pension triple lock with a system tied to the cost of living, alongside wider charges for some NHS services, while ensuring protections remain in place for the most vulnerable. Political reaction Shadow chancellor Sir Mel Stride said the IMF’s assessment was correct, arguing that further tax increases would cause additional economic harm and that spending, particularly on welfare, needed to be brought under control. Reform UK’s economic spokesman, Robert Jenrick, said cutting unnecessary spending was essential to restart economic growth, accusing Mr Burnham of pursuing more taxation and spending instead. Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch called for the swift approval of new North Sea oil and gas drilling, describing it as a straightforward step Mr Burnham should take rather than pursuing wealth taxes or property levies. Chancellor Rachel Reeves defended the government’s record, stating that the current economic strategy had strengthened Britain’s position over the past two years and noting the IMF’s broad support for the choices she has made. Wider warnings on tax burden The IMF’s comments echo similar concerns raised a day earlier by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development, which said Britain’s record tax burden meant the incoming prime minister would need to focus on reducing spending rather than raising revenue further. The Fund also noted that Britain’s tax to GDP ratio is on track to reach historic highs, and warned that relying solely on tax measures to fund new spending pressures could distort the economy and weaken growth. It highlighted that VAT and property taxes are already comparatively high, while further increases to capital gains tax could risk driving wealthy individuals abroad. Income tax increases, it added, could also reduce revenue by discouraging people from working. Separately, Mr Burnham is reportedly considering approving new North Sea oil and gas projects, including potential support for drilling at the Jackdaw and Rosebank fields, alongside possible changes to rules governing new wells near existing infrastructure.

Weight problems are keeping more than 600,000 Britons out of work, study finds - NATIONAL NEWS

Fri, 17 Jul 2026 08:10:58 +0100

New research from the University of York suggests that obesity is having a measurable effect on Britain’s job market, with more than 600,000 people believed to be out of work because of their weight.

The study drew on data from 284,258 volunteers who took part in the UK Biobank project, a long running health research initiative. Researchers looked at each person’s body mass index, along with their waist to hip and weight to height ratios, then compared this against their employment status.

Across the group studied, the overall employment rate stood at 75.5 per cent, and roughly a quarter of participants were classified as obese, meaning they had a BMI above 30. Those individuals tended to have lower employment rates overall and were less likely to hold a university degree than people who were not obese. When the researchers crunched the numbers, they found that obesity cut a person’s chances of being in work by 4.2 percentage points. In practical terms, that works out to around four extra people out of every hundred being jobless purely because of their weight. The team behind the study, whose findings were presented at the International Congress on Obesity in Mexico, described the effect as statistically significant. Men hit harder than women Interestingly, the study found the impact was far from equal between the sexes. Obesity was estimated to reduce men’s employment chances by 6.6 percentage points, roughly three times the 2.1 percentage point effect seen in women. Dr Aharon Katz, who led the research, said the contrasting figures point to different labour market consequences for men and women, though he was cautious about pinning down exactly why. He suggested the gap could stem from differences in the types of jobs men and women tend to do, health related limitations at work, discrimination by employers, or wider social factors shaping employment decisions. For now, he said, these explanations remain speculative and further research is needed. The study also found that education played a protective role. Obese people with lower levels of education were significantly more likely to be out of work, whereas those with a degree fared better. Wider economic and health context Dr Katz argued the findings should prompt a more targeted response from policymakers and employers alike, calling for greater awareness, a challenge to workplace bias, and a stronger push for inclusivity. The research adds to a growing body of evidence on the economic toll of Britain’s weight problem. Two in three UK adults are now considered overweight or obese, with obesity rates having doubled since the 1990s. Earlier research has also shown that obese employees are roughly twice as likely to take sick leave as colleagues of a healthy weight. Separately, studies into weight loss injections have found they can significantly cut sickness absence. Patients prescribed the jabs saw their sick days fall by 45 per cent after nine months, with long term absences of five days or more dropping by 56 per cent. Experts believe wider access to the treatments could free up millions of GP appointments and reduce A&E visits linked to obesity. More than two million people in the UK are currently using GLP-1 weight loss injections, most of them bought privately due to limited NHS availability. Weight loss pills using similar technology have also just become available over the counter at pharmacies and supermarkets, with some experts predicting they could eventually outsell the injections. The Government has already begun piloting schemes offering weight loss jabs to unemployed people as part of a wider effort to get more people back into work.

Visitors urged to spend a little more time with Rembrandt

Fri, 17 Jul 2026 07:09:00 +0100

ART-LOVERS can meet Rembrandt in south Warwickshire this summer. A masterpiece self-portrait by Rembrandt van Rijn is taking its final spotlight at Upton House and Gardens, from today until November 8, following a year-long nationwide tour, before returning to its permanent home at Buckland Abbey in Devon. The National Trust is inviting visitors to slow down and reconnect – with themselves and with art – through one of its most celebrated paintings – Self-portrait wearing a Feathered Bonnet by the Dutch master. As part of the ‘Meet Reembrandt’ initiative to encourage new ways of engaging with paintings, it is hoped visitors will discover the mental health benefits of “slow looking” at art, which include helping deal with the demands of a busy world Several recent studies have shown that exploring art and heritage has the potential to improve people’s mental health. The benefits can include helping to escape the mental trappings of day-to-day living, reduce stress, foster emotional resilience, and even spark feelings of inspiration and enlightenment. While the mental health benefits of being in nature are widely known, the National Trust is encouraging people to discover how art and heritage can offer similar restorative effects. The average museum or gallery visitor spends just eight seconds looking at each artwork. The trust is challenging that norm by offering seating and audio guides with meditative prompts that encourage viewers to linger with Rembrandt’s masterpiece. The painting will be shown with room to allow people to focus on the work on its own, allowing space for uninterrupted contemplation. National Trust curator Amy Orrock said: “Slow looking is about more than just taking your time. It’s a way of being present, of noticing the details and the emotions they generate that might otherwise pass us by. You’re not just seeing – you’re feeling, thinking, connecting.” “This self-portrait is the perfect companion for a slow looking experience. It invites you to look closer, to wonder what Rembrandt was contemplating, and maybe to reflect on your own state of mind.” The painting itself has a remarkable story. Once thought to be the work of a follower, it was reattributed to Rembrandt himself after extensive conservation and scientific analysis in 2013. It is now recognised as one of the great treasures of the National Trust’s collection. Rembrandt created around 80 self-portraits throughout his career, each giving a different insight into his character. In this picture he cuts a swaggering figure, with hand on hip, elaborate costume and hat. But there is also something tentative about the way he looks back at the viewer, and shadow across his face gives a mysterious feel. Visitors will have the option to explore the painting’s history through audio guides featuring insights from conservators, art historians, and even imagined reflections from Rembrandt himself, or to simply sit quietly and enjoy spending time with a masterpiece. Michelle Leake, property curator at Upton House, said: “When Lord Bearsted renovated the house to display his art collection, he created spaces designed for close looking and enjoying art for art’s sake. It therefore feels especially fitting for the property to be hosting this wonderful slow looking experience.” Visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk for full details.

UK Fence Height Rules 2026: What You Can Build Without Planning Permission

Fri, 17 Jul 2026 03:05:10 +0100

UK fence height rules in 2026 let most homeowners build a boundary up to 2 metres high without planning permission, with a tighter 1-metre limit where a fence meets a road. These permitted-development rights cover most domestic gardens, so a like-for-like replacement rarely needs council approval. But the rules carry exceptions. Trellis, post caps and raised ground levels all count toward the total height, and special protections apply to listed buildings, conservation areas and properties under an Article 4 direction.

How High Can You Build a Fence Without Planning Permission?

You do not need permission for a fence, wall or gate up to 2 metres high measured from ground level, or up to 1 metre where it borders a highway used by vehicles or its footpath. This follows the permitted development rights of the Planning Portal for England, and these limits remain accurate for 2026. The 1-metre rule applies near roads to protect driver and pedestrian sightlines. Permitted development does not cover every property. It does not apply where: The site is a listed building or within its curtilage, or the boundary adjoins a neighbouring listed building An Article 4 direction has removed the right A planning condition restricts what you can build In these cases you must apply to your local planning authority first. In conservation areas you may also need permission to remove an existing fence, even if building one within the limit does not. Hedges fall outside these rules, though an estate covenant may still restrict planting.

How to Measure Your Fence Height Correctly

Height is measured from natural ground level to the very top of the structure, so every component counts, including the gravel board and any trellis or post caps. A 1.8m panel on a 150mm gravel board with a 200mm trellis reaches 2.15m, exceeding the limit and requiring permission. Sloping ground complicates this. Because height is measured at each point along the run, a fence built level across a slope may comply at the lower end while breaching it higher up. Always measure on the highest side and check several points before fixing panels — councils assess the tallest point.

Can You Build an 8ft or 12ft Fence in the UK?

An 8ft fence (about 2.4m) and a 12ft fence (about 3.6m) both exceed the 2-metre limit, so planning permission is required for either. The maximum without consent is roughly 6ft 6in — even a 7ft fence breaches it. To exceed the limit legally, submit a planning application. The council weighs the impact on neighbours, daylight and privacy at its discretion — a justification such as security or traffic noise helps. Many homeowners instead keep the fence at 2 metres and add height with planting or a lawful open trellis. A like-for-like replacement at or below 2 metres also stays within permitted development.

Adding a Trellis on Top of a Fence: Does It Count?

Trellis usually counts toward the total, so a 2-metre fence with trellis on top breaches the limit and would need permission. Some councils take a more relaxed view of open, lightweight trellis used for climbing plants, but this tolerance is discretionary. Solid trellis or panels are treated like a standard fence. Always confirm with your local planning authority before adding trellis to a fence already at the limit.

What to Do If Your Fence Is Already Over the Height Limit

An existing fence over the limit can be maintained or altered without permission, provided its height is not increased. You can repair, repaint or replace panels as long as the overall height stays the same; raising or rebuilding it taller triggers a planning application. Hedges follow separate rules. Under Part 8 of the Anti-social Behaviour Act 2003, a council can act only if a line of two or more mostly evergreen shrubs over 2 metres blocks light or access — and even then cannot order it below 2 metres. Replacing a fence is a natural moment to upgrade the material. Charred timber fencing from TimberSol is a low-maintenance, chemical-free option in finishes such as Black, Carbon and Anthracite Grey, with surface charring that resists moisture, insects and decay without harmful preservatives.

UK Fence Height Rules: FAQ

How High Can a Fence Be Without Planning Permission in the UK?

Up to 2 metres high measured from natural ground level, or up to 1 metre if it borders a highway used by vehicles or its footpath. These limits hold for 2026, though an Article 4 direction or planning condition can withdraw the right for a specific site.

Can I Have an 8ft Fence in the UK?

An 8ft fence (about 2.4m) exceeds the 2-metre limit, so you must apply for planning permission, and approval depends on the council's judgement. A 7ft fence (roughly 2.1m) also breaches the limit.

Does a Trellis Count Towards the 2-Metre Fence Height Limit?

Usually yes, so a 2-metre fence with trellis on top breaches the limit. Some councils permit light, open trellis for climbing plants, but this is discretionary — confirm with your local planning authority first.

How High Can a Gate Be Without Planning Permission?

A gate follows the same rules as a fence: up to 2 metres generally, or 1 metre next to a highway used by vehicles or its footpath. The same exceptions apply for listed buildings, conservation areas and Article 4 directions. Most domestic garden fences already sit at or below the 2-metre limit, so a like-for-like replacement rarely needs an application. As a UK supplier delivering on our own vehicles, we make it easy to compare options — if you are rebuilding within the rules, order a fencing sample first.

Need It Now? The Rise Of Instant Delivery And On-Demand Services In Warwickshire

Fri, 17 Jul 2026 02:53:58 +0100

Daily life now runs through apps. Banking happens on Monzo or Barclays, shopping on Amazon and Tesco apps, and food arrives via Just Eat, Deliveroo, or Uber Eats within minutes. Transport is booked through Uber, while Netflix and Spotify have replaced traditional TV and radio. Gaming is just as instant, with PlayStation Network, Xbox Live, and mobile apps. Online gaming has also extended into dedicated gambling platforms like MrQ Casino, used by thousands of UK players for casino games supported by verified software and instant deposits. In Warwickshire, this is standard. A resident in Leamington Spa can order food, arrange a ride, and request prescriptions through the NHS App without leaving home. Across the UK, online sales make up around 27% of retail, and people use around 41 apps each month. What once took time now takes seconds.

From Takeaway Menus To Full Local Convenience

Food delivery created the foundation for this shift. What started as occasional takeaway ordering has expanded into a wider system that includes groceries, alcohol, and household essentials. In Warwick (CV34), Just Eat currently lists around 249 local options, covering both restaurants and convenience retailers. Alongside familiar takeaway names, the platform includes:

Sainsbury’s – Warwick Coten End Local
ASDA Express – Stratrode
Morrisons Daily – Warwick Percy Estate
One Stop – Warwick
Shell – Hatton

Many of these listings show delivery windows between 10 and 40 minutes, depending on time and demand. That speed changes behaviour. A missing ingredient or last-minute grocery need no longer requires a trip to the shop. In Royal Leamington Spa, Deliveroo follows the same model. Restaurant meals appear alongside supermarkets such as Co-op and Morrisons, allowing users to switch between dinner and essentials within the same app.

Transport And Courier Services Now Follow The Same Model

The same “instant access” approach now applies to movement as well. Uber operates across Royal Leamington Spa, offering both rides and Uber Eats. Journeys can be booked at any time, with real-time tracking and upfront pricing. That removes the need to plan ahead or rely on fixed taxi schedules. Courier services in Warwickshire have also adapted. Several providers now advertise:

Same-day delivery across the county
Collection within 30 to 60 minutes
Direct transport for urgent parcels or documents

This applies to both local businesses and individuals. A small retailer can dispatch an order quickly, while a resident can send or receive urgent items without delay.

Even Healthcare Has Moved Into The “On-Demand” Space

The shift is not limited to retail and transport. Healthcare has also moved in this direction. The NHS App recorded more than 39 million registrations. That level of usage shows how everyday admin tasks are moving online. For residents, the process is straightforward. A repeat prescription can be requested from a phone and sent directly to a chosen pharmacy. There is no need to visit a GP practice in person for routine requests.

Local Businesses Are Under Pressure To Keep Up

This shift is forcing local businesses to adapt quickly. According to the Coventry and Warwickshire Growth Hub, hospitality and retail businesses in the region are facing increasing pressure to adopt:

Online ordering systems
Digital payments
Delivery partnerships

A café or takeaway without app presence risks being overlooked, even if it is well-known locally. Visibility now depends on platform rankings and customer ratings as much as physical location. For some businesses, this creates opportunity. Delivery apps can expand reach beyond the immediate area. For others, it introduces challenges, including commission fees and reliance on third-party platforms.

Speed Comes With Trade-Offs

Instant access brings clear advantages, but it also raises questions. Delivery costs can add up quickly. Small orders often include service fees, delivery charges, and price markups. Over time, convenience becomes more expensive than traditional shopping. There is also less transparency. Research shows that around one in seven food outlets on delivery platforms operate as “dark kitchens”, meaning they do not have a traditional storefront. Many users remain unaware of this.

A New Standard For Everyday Life

In Warwickshire, the pattern is clear. Lifestyle is increasingly shaped by what can be delivered or arranged instantly. Food, groceries, transport, parcels, and prescriptions now follow the same logic. Open an app, place a request, and wait a short time. What used to be a convenience is becoming an expectation. For residents, this means flexibility and time saved. For businesses, it means adapting to a faster and more competitive environment. The change is already visible. Not always on the street, but on the screen where local life now happens. Article written by Lydia.

Full route of the Warwickshire stage of the Women's Tour of Britain announced

Thu, 16 Jul 2026 17:00:00 +0100

THE FULL route of the Warwickshire stage of the Women’s Lloyds Tour of Britain has been announced. The elite race, which attracts top cyclists from around the world, starts and finishes in Leamington on Sunday August 23. From the start in the town centre, the 77-mile (123.8km) route will head north to Kenilworth, before heading through Stoneleigh towards Princethorpe, where it will follow the Fosse Way southwards, passing over the M40 through Wellesbourne and Shipston, before turning north. The peleton will then take in a succession of climbs, including Sun Rising Hill (900m at 10 per cent average gradient) and the ascent of Burton Dassett Hills Country Park (700m at nine per cent average gradient), which was a summit finish in last year’s men’s race. The race then heads to Southam before returning to Leamington via Radford Semele and the finish near Jephson Gardens. This is the third time that Leamington has hosted the final stage of the Lloyds Tour of Britain Women, having seen Chloe Hosking and Sarah Roy take the title in 2017 and 2018 respectively. The four previous stages in 2026 are being held in Cockermouth (Cumbria), Lancashire, North Wales and South Wales. Warwickshire County Council’s culture spokesperson Coun Darren Cheshire said: “We’re absolutely delighted that Warwickshire is hosting the final stage of the 2026 Lloyd’s Tour of Britain Women. It’s a fantastic opportunity to show off our towns, villages and countryside in Warwickshire to an international audience, as well as a great day out for families. There’s plenty of places along the route where you can watch the team cars and cyclists go past, so please put the date in your diaries and come out on the day to cheer on the riders and enjoy the celebrations.” Jonathan Day, managing director for British Cycling Events, added; “Announcing the route is one of the key milestones in the build-up to the Lloyds Tour of Britain Women, as it gives riders, teams and fans their first real insight into how this year’s race could unfold. We have put together a course that provides opportunities for a range of different rider types to try and challenge for the title, ensuring every stage has the potential to shape the overall outcome. “Beyond the sporting challenge, the route reflects our ambition to bring elite women’s cycling to the diverse communities across Britain. Each stage will showcase a different part of the country and provide fans with the chance to experience world-class racing on their doorstep. We are excited to see the race come to life and to welcome spectators to what promises to be a fantastic edition of the Lloyds Tour of Britain Women.” Visit www.warwickshire.gov.uk/cycletour for more details.

Sustainability essential skill for business graduates says professor

Thu, 16 Jul 2026 15:00:00 +0100

Professor Jenna Ward, Dean of the College of Business and Law, explains why Coventry University’s business education isn’t embracing sustainability as a nice to have – it’s essential skill for graduates. WHEN I speak to industry leaders, the message is clear: they don’t just want graduates who can maximise profit – they want ethical, responsible decision-makers. That’s why, at Coventry University, we’re embedding sustainability and responsible leadership throughout our business education to help shape the leaders of the future. As businesses navigate the transition to net zero, the need to balance both profitability and sustainability is reshaping the skills valued by employers. Net Zero Week is a timely reminder of why preparing future leaders for that reality has never been more important. The business landscape is changing. Climate change, resource pressures, changing consumer expectations and the transition to net zero are reshaping how organisations operate. Increasingly, businesses recognise that long-term success depends not only on financial performance but on how responsibly that performance is achieved. However, business still needs growth. It needs innovation, investment and entrepreneurs who can build successful organisations, create jobs and drive prosperity. This is not a choice between profit and sustainability. The most successful organisations understand that responsible, clean growth, strong financial returns and positive social impact go hand in hand. Sustainability is no longer simply a matter of corporate responsibility. It is increasingly linked to competitiveness, resilience, reputation and long-term value creation. Customers, investors, employees and regulators are all placing greater emphasis on how businesses respond to environmental and social challenges. That is why sustainability and responsible leadership are embedded throughout our business school curriculum – not as standalone topics but as core principles that help students understand the opportunities and responsibilities that come with business decision-making. Our approach reflects Coventry University Group’s mission of creating better futures through responsible management education. We are committed to equipping future leaders with the knowledge, skills and behaviours needed to drive innovation and growth while making a positive contribution to business and society. The scale of business education makes this more important than ever. According to the Chartered Association of Business Schools, more than 490,000 students in the UK are studying business and management. One in six UK students is enrolled on a business-related course, while business students account for a quarter of all graduate start-ups. What they learn today will influence organisations, industries and communities tomorrow. For universities that brings with it a responsibility to ensure graduates are equipped not only to succeed commercially but to understand the wider impact of the decisions they make. That is where the United Nations’ Principles for Responsible Management Education (PRME) play an important role. PRME is a global initiative which aims to ensure business schools develop future leaders who can balance economic, environmental and social priorities. We are proud to embed these principles throughout our teaching, helping students understand that business decisions have consequences that extend far beyond the balance sheet. Through PRME, sustainability is not treated as an optional extra. It is integrated across disciplines including finance, accounting, entrepreneurship and management. Students are encouraged to consider impact, ethics and responsible leadership alongside commercial objectives, ensuring they develop a broader understanding of what sustainable business success looks like. Our commitment extends beyond the classroom. We support initiatives including Climate Literacy and Action Training, Bloomberg Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) certification opportunities and international collaborations focused on climate change solutions. These experiences help students develop the practical skills needed to lead organisations through an increasingly complex and rapidly changing business environment. The financial planning sector provides a powerful example of why this matters. Traditionally viewed as a sector focused solely on returns, financial planning is evolving rapidly. Environmental, social and governance considerations are becoming an increasingly important part of investment decisions, with firms recognising that long-term value depends on understanding risk, responsibility and sustainability alongside profitability. Industry leaders consistently tell us they are looking for graduates who can navigate these challenges. They want people who understand that responsible investment and financial success are not opposing forces. Rather they are complementary drivers of sustainable growth. We’ve responded to this by developing one of the UK’s few dedicated undergraduate degrees in financial planning. Supported by strong industry partnerships, scholarships and placement opportunities, the programme is helping to build the next generation of professionals for a sector experiencing significant demand for skilled graduates. We are already seeing the impact of this approach. Alumni and partners return to share experiences of sustainable pensions, responsible investment and climate resilience, helping students understand how the principles they learn in the classroom translate into real-world business practice. We see that impact internationally too, through partnerships such as The Knowledge Hub in Egypt, where graduates are contributing to sustainability initiatives and bringing that experience back to current students. Ultimately, this is about preparing graduates for the realities of modern business. The transition to a low-carbon economy will depend on countless decisions made by entrepreneurs, investors, managers and business leaders. The organisations that thrive will be those that can innovate, grow and remain profitable while creating value for society and responding to the challenges of a changing world. That is why we are embedding sustainability and responsible management throughout business education at Coventry University. Not because profit matters less, but because the future belongs to leaders who can deliver both commercial success and sustainable impact.

Plan to split Warwickshire in two given the go-ahead by government

Thu, 16 Jul 2026 14:07:34 +0100

A TWO-council plan for Warwickshire has been given the go-ahead by government. It has approved plans which will see the county’s existing six councils abolished by 2028 and replaced by two larger single-tier authorities – one covering the north and the other the south. It is part of the government’s plans to give local areas more decision-making powers via devolution. It will see one new council in the areas covered by Nuneaton and Bedworth Borough Council, North Warwickshire Borough Council and Rugby Borough Council. The areas covered by Stratford District Council and Warwick District Council will form the other. Elections for the newly formed councils are due to be held in 2027. The new authorities will take full control in 2028, when the existing councils will be wound up. Once the new authorities are up and running, services which residents rely on will be delivered by their new local council. But instead of having a lower-level council responsible for things like waste collection, planning applications and street cleaning – they would be delivered by the new council. The replacement will also take over things currently delivered by WCC such as education, transport and libraries. Council tax bills could also go up or down under the new structure, depending on where people live and how the new councils decide to calculate them. At the time consultation was taking place last year, Stratford, Warwick, North Warwickshire and Nuneaton and Bedworth all expressed a preference for splitting the county in two authorities. Warwickshire County Council and Rugby Borough Council preferred the option of a single council. The arguments for two authorities revolved around whether smaller councils could meet local people’s needs more effectively and fears over a loss of local identity. Those pushing for a single authority spoke about being able to work more efficiently and reduced bureaucracy. In a joint statement the six councils said: “We recognise that councils across Warwickshire have held different views on the best structure for local government in the county. “All six councils have a history of working well together and have been praised by Government for being an area where cooperation is high. We remain committed to continuing to work together constructively and responsibly as we move into the next stage of this process. “Our shared priority is to make sure residents, businesses and communities continue to receive the services they rely on, and that the move to the new councils is managed carefully and in the best interests of Warwickshire.”

Heart of England in Bloom judges visit Leamington

Thu, 16 Jul 2026 12:00:48 +0100

FINGERS were crossed for gold when Leamington was visited by the Heart of England in Bloom judges. They were in town on Thursday (July 9) to assess whether Leamington should retain its Gold Award in the Small City category. The Leamington in Bloom Partnership, supported by Leamington Town Council, hosted the judges at the town hall, where they were presented with the annual Leamington in Bloom portfolio, an in-depth overview of green projects, initiatives and developments that have taken place over the past year. The judges were then taken on a comprehensive tour of green spaces around Leamington, including Trinity School, Brookhurst Primary School, RLS Nursing Home, Packington Place Pocket Park, Brunswick Hub Secret Garden, Charles Gardner Street planters, Black Bridge, Paintings Plantation, St Mary’s Allotment site, Mill Gardens, and concluding at the iconic Jephson Gardens. This year’s tour showcased a diverse range of projects, with each green space highlighting different community involvement from pupils, care home residents, local community groups and residents of Leamington. The tour concluded with lunch at the Windmill Inn, where the deputy mayor Coun Savita Lekhi thanked the members of the Leamington in Bloom Partnership. In the portfolio introduction, town mayor Coun Sarah Boad, said: “This collaboration highlights the immense pride and enjoyment our residents take in the town’s green spaces. Our community gardening, conservation and environmental projects continue to foster strong connections while providing lasting benefits for everyone. The Partnership is hoping to achieve its ninth consecutive Gold Award when the judging results are announced.

CRICKET - Norton Lindsey suffer two-wicket defeat against Henley-in-Arden

Thu, 16 Jul 2026 12:00:21 +0100

A DEPLETED Norton Lindsey and Wolverton CC suffered a narrow two-wicket defeat against Henley-in-Arden despite a half-century from Jake Rushton.

Norton posted 217-7 from their 45 overs as Rushton reached a half-ton while Dan Fell finished unbeaten just two runs shy of the same milestone at Henly Sports and Social Club.

However, an unbeaten half-century from Henley's Noorul Hussein earned the home side a two-wicket win with eight balls remaining. The result means Norton, who were without seven first team players for the clash with Henley, sit second in the Cotswold Hills League First Division table. Henley won the toss and elected to field as Norton openers Joe Williamson (29) and Rushton (50) enjoyed an 86-run first-wicket stand. Simba Mudimu (0) departed for a six-ball duck while Rushton fell soon after reaching his half-century which left Norton on 104-3. Norton lost Tom Wilcox (4) cheaply while skipper Andrew Dellow (17) also fell with the latter struggling with injury. Fell (48 not out) led a recovery effort in a 60-ball knock which featured four maximums but he lacked support at the crease although Jack Mann (14 not out) chipped in with late runs. Norton reached 217-7 at the end of the innings as Chris Key (3-50) and Ishan Khan (2-24) proved the pick of the Henley attack. Despite only having three fit first team bowlers available, Norton's Ollie Watson (2-41) removed both of Henley's openers - Thomas Williams (10) and Key (10). Shamsher Nawaz (21) and Rahul Khadim (33) scored steady runs to boost the home side's total before Hussein (55 not out) and Basan Uddin (26) pushed Henley towards the required target. Henley still needed 68 runs from the final eight overs as Mudimo (1-25), Wilcox (1-30) and Steve Dellow (2-42) all took crucial wickets. However, Hussein stuck to his task and, with support from James Bramwell (18 not out), guided the home side to victory in the penultimate over of the match despite late wickets from Williamson (2-43). Norton are next in action against Adlestrop on Saturday, July 18 with play to begin at 12.30pm at Adlestrop Park.

Town trail to reveal the secrets of Warwick's past

Thu, 16 Jul 2026 09:22:08 +0100

FAMILIES are invited to uncover the stories of Warwick’s past through a new interactive town trail. The ‘Through the Shop Window’ Trail invites participants to explore the town’s streets and shop windows while uncovering the stories of the businesses that once served the town – and Warwick Castle – during the Victorian era and beyond. From a local baker who supplied bread for a castle elephant to a Warwick butcher renowned for providing sausages for the Earl of Warwick’s breakfast, the trail reveals a host of surprising and entertaining stories drawn from the Warwick Castle archives. Visitors will discover the people, businesses and trades that helped shape the town during the 18th and 19th centuries. The trail connects shops, streets and gardens across Warwick town centre, using eye-catching window displays, maps and QR codes to reveal hidden links between the town and the castle. Warwickshire County Council's heritage spokesperson Coun Darren Cheshire said: “The ‘Through the Shop Window’ Trail brings local history to life in a fun and accessible way for families to do something together. We hope also that it enhances the experience for visitors and encourages them to come again to our historic town. “We are very grateful to Warwick Town Council and The Friends of the County Record Office for their support with this project." Free trail maps are available from the Market Hall Museum, Warwick Tourist Information Centre and participating shops throughout the town. Participants who complete the trail can have their map stamped at the Tourist Information Centre. Visit www.heritage.warwickshire.gov.uk for more details.

Burnham Signals More Tax Rises Ahead of Downing Street Entry - NATIONAL NEWS

Thu, 16 Jul 2026 09:07:32 +0100

Andy Burnham has indicated he is open to raising taxes once he takes office as prime minister, saying tough fiscal decisions lie ahead and that he may need to ask the public to contribute more.

Speaking to Gary Lineker on the Goalhanger podcast, Burnham said he wants to take time to properly assess the country’s finances before making decisions.

He declined to rule out a wealth tax, saying he wants a stronger sense of fairness in how the burden is shared, while stressing that any tough calls are still some way off. He has committed to sticking with his party’s manifesto promises not to raise VAT, income tax or National Insurance, but his remarks suggest he may be weighing changes elsewhere in the tax system, potentially including aligning capital gains tax more closely with income tax rates. Burnham has previously argued that Britain has taxed jobs too heavily while taxing wealth too lightly. The comments have drawn immediate criticism from opposition figures. Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch accused him of planning fresh tax increases before even taking office, while Reform UK’s Robert Jenrick said Burnham had conceded tax hikes were coming without specifying which taxes would be affected. OECD Warns Against Further Tax Increases The remarks came the same day the OECD cautioned that Britain’s tax burden is already too high and urged the incoming prime minister to focus on spending cuts rather than additional revenue raising. The Paris-based organisation specifically called for a reversal of more than £12bn in tax increases introduced by Chancellor Rachel Reeves, including the extended freeze on income tax thresholds, a stealth measure that pulls more earners into higher brackets as wages rise. The OECD also urged ministers to reconsider the increase in employer National Insurance contributions, warning it was contributing to higher prices, and flagged concerns that expanded workers’ rights and a rising minimum wage could be undermining business competitiveness. It further warned that raising capital gains or property taxes, options reportedly favoured by some around Burnham, could do significant damage to growth given the UK’s already high property tax burden. Separately, the organisation called for scrapping the pensions triple lock, warning that maintaining guaranteed annual increases could add tens of billions of pounds a year to costs over coming decades. It also raised alarm about rising youth worklessness, warning that a shrinking workforce could threaten the long-term sustainability of the state pension system. Retailers and Think Tanks Add Pressure The British Retail Consortium called for National Insurance cuts for younger workers and urged the government to abandon plans to eliminate the lower youth minimum wage, with the organisation’s chief executive warning that retail, traditionally an entry point into employment for young people, is struggling under billions of pounds in added costs. The Resolution Foundation separately warned that the triple lock is already costing significantly more than if pensions had risen in line with wages, and said rising borrowing costs and inflation have shrunk the fiscal headroom available to the next chancellor. Pensions minister Torsten Bell acknowledged that the government’s tax increases have had economic consequences, but defended them as necessary to sustain public services, arguing that underfunding services ultimately pushes costs onto businesses and communities in other ways. He also indicated the triple lock is unlikely to change in the near term. Andy Burnham is due to be formally confirmed as Labour leader at a special party conference on Friday, with the transfer of power to Downing Street following three days later, on Monday 20 July.

FOOTBALL - Leamington sign trialist Nathan Kabeya after full-back impresses in pre-season

Thu, 16 Jul 2026 09:00:42 +0100

LEAMINGTON have signed full-back Nathan Kabeya for the 2026/27 season after the defender impressed on trial at the club.

Kabeya has featured in all four of Leamington's friendly games so far and provided two assists in the club's pre-season opener against Lye Town.

The 21-year-old also featured in a win against Sutton Coldfield Town and draws against Walsall and Brackley Town. He spent last season at Rugby Town in the Northern Premier League Midlands after starting his career in the academy of Wolverhampton Wanderers.

Kabeya said: "Scott is the first new manager I have had since I've been playing in non-league, and he's been like a breath of fresh air really. "It's a new environment, new teammates, and since the beginning it's been really welcoming. "The ideas, the things we've been doing in training just align with what I want to do as a footballer as well as the rest of the lads. "I think it's showing already in the first few pre season games as a group what we can achieve. "Even after the first couple of sessions, coming in as a trialist, the motivation has been that this is a team I want to play for. "That's made me go harder and it's ended up with a good outcome, so I'm excited for the start of the season." Brakes boss Scott Easterlow added: "I’m really pleased for Nath. "He’s someone we invited in for pre season having caught our eye at Step Four last season. "He’s a full back who’s comfortable on either side. "His performances this pre season have already shown he belongs at this level."

Warwickshire-based national bowel screening service celebrates 20 years

Thu, 16 Jul 2026 07:00:00 +0100

IT is 20 years since sacks of envelopes containing small samples of poo started arriving at Rugby’s Hospital of St Cross. Since then, more than 22million poo samples returned by people in the Midlands and North West region have been logged, analysed and reported as part of the national NHS bowel screening service. In 2000 the Rugby hub began a pilot programme of testing and was one of the very first hubs to go live in the national programme in July 2006. In the two decades since the launch, the Bowel Cancer Screening service has seen lots of changes and goes from strength to strength, improving outcomes for patients where cancers or early signs of cancer are spotted and reducing pressures on colorectal emergency surgery. The NHS Bowel Cancer Screening programme sends a test kit to those who are eligible and requires them to provide their own small sample of poo, along with the collection date and return by post. Dr Steve Smith, who was programme director in 2006, remembers the original test being quite complicated for people who had to submit three different samples taken over three different days. “Our biggest challenge was getting people to complete the tests and complete them properly. Around 50% of everyone receiving the original kit returned one compared to 64 per cent today with the new kit, said Steve. Since 2019 tests have become much more straightforward to complete with just one sample required; the age range of people invited to take part in screening has reduced to 50 from 60 and analysis is much more sensitive and automated. Steve added: “When we started, samples were analysed by people who were able to spot if poo samples contained anything more than 200 micrograms of blood. Today, automated analysers enable us to identify people with lower amounts of blood in samples being detected and will pick up early signs and early stages of cancer meaning more people can be treated and have better outcomes.” Dr Kamaljit Kaur Chatha is the Consultant Clinical Scientist who leads the hub today. “Ensuring the reliability of the computerised analysers is very important, and each morning the team tests every device against a control for accuracy. This is repeated several times a day so that each of the six analysers can process 200 samples every 40 minutes. “We are very proud of our team, some of whom have worked here since the service began, and we make sure they are trained in a wide range of the tasks needed for the programme so that they can switch roles regularly.” Each week the Rugby hub currently processes 27,000 samples. They arrive via Royal Mail in sacks every morning and are opened, logged, analysed and reported on the same day. The hub also sends out information letters to those eligible for tests as well as notifications of the results of their poo sample and whether further investigations are needed. It also hosts a helpline which receives between 500 and 600 calls every day with people asking for help around their sample kit or checking their eligibility. Dr Chatha added: “Everyone aged 50 to 74 is now eligible for bowel screening compared to just the 60 to 74 year olds up until two years ago. The more sensitive tests we are now able to carry out with the automated analysers mean that we can prevent more cases of serious illness – screening is a big success for health outcomes.”

Carolina wins Stanley Cup again

Thu, 16 Jul 2026 01:15:32 +0100

Carolina won the Stanley Cup for the first time in 20 years after beating the Vegas Golden Knights 3-0 in Game 6 at T-Mobile Arena. For betting readers, the same match routine can include score checks, NHL markets and 1xbet register, but the market read starts with series context, goalie form and stake control. The Hurricanes won the final 4-2, took the last three games of the series and lifted the Cup for the second time in franchise history.

Game 6 gave Carolina full control

The clincher followed five finals games that all had at least six total goals. Carolina scored once in each period and shut Vegas out on the road. Brandon Bussi made 22 saves, while Taylor Hall, Jackson Blake and Nikolaj Ehlers supplied the goals. The result ended a wait that went back to 2006, when Carolina won its first championship. Carolina entered Game 6 with a 3-2 series lead after winning Games 4 and 5. That changed the betting setup. Vegas needed to extend the series. Carolina could play from structure, protect the middle and force Vegas to chase cleaner chances.

The series turned after Game 3

Vegas led the final 2-1 after two overtime wins in the first three games. Carolina did not need a perfect series to recover. It needed cleaner starts, stronger special-teams moments and steadier goaltending. For bettors, a series price can move sharply after overtime, but one narrow loss does not always show the better team. Game 4 tied the final. Game 5 gave Carolina the lead. By Game 6, the market had to price both momentum and elimination pressure.

What bettors can take from the final

A Stanley Cup Final is not a normal regular-season market. Travel, matchups, injuries, goaltending changes and short rest can all change the price. Before betting on a playoff series, check:

series score before the next game;
home and away results;
goalie starts and save volume;
power-play and penalty-kill trends;
overtime workload;
injuries or lineup changes;
stake limit before puck drop.

The stake limit matters because playoff hockey can change after one deflection, penalty or goalie mistake. A fixed amount before the game is safer than raising the bet after a fast goal or a missed chance. New users often look at registration offers before following a major final or a new season market. That step should come after the basic checks: account country, eligible markets, minimum odds, expiry dates and wagering rules. The promo code 1x_3831408 can be entered during registration and may increase the maximum first-deposit bonus. Activation, available amount and usage rules depend on the country of registration, so the terms should be read before the first deposit. A bonus should not push anyone into a bigger stake or a market they do not understand.

Carolina’s title resets the NHL picture

Jordan Staal won the Conn Smythe Trophy as playoff MVP, adding another clear detail to Carolina’s run. The final also drew the strongest Stanley Cup Final television audience in seven years, with an average of 5.2 million viewers across the series. For future NHL betting, Carolina’s title gives a practical checklist. Series odds should be read through game state, goalie form, special teams and workload, not only through the favourite label. The Hurricanes turned a 2-1 deficit into three straight wins, then closed the final with a road shutout. That is a hockey story first, and a betting angle only after the facts are clear. Article written by Evelina Brown

Rising Warwickshire teenage singing star releases debut EP

Wed, 15 Jul 2026 17:00:00 +0100

A RISING teenage singing star from Kenilworth is releasing her debut EP. Nineteen year-old Amelia Oliver began sharing covers of her songs on TikTok three years ago with clips of herself playing guitar and singing along. Since then the former Kenilworth School pupil has built up a following of over 7,500 followers from across the world, including Canada, the USA and Spain. Inspired by artists such as Lizzy McAlpine and Phoebe Bridgers, she blends contemporary storytelling with indie/folk-pop influences. Amelia said: “Drawing from my personal experiences as an autistic individual and navigating recovery of an eating disorder, songwriting has become a powerful outlet for expressing emotions that can often be difficult to put into words. Whilst my music doesn’t shy away from life’s challenges, its focus is ultimately one of hope, growth, and self-acceptance.” Recently, Ameila achieved several milestones. She has been a featured Track of the Week for BBC CWR Introducing. She is a recipient of NextGen Funding from Youth Music UK, helping transition from home recordings into a professional studio environment, and she also won the Let It Be Live music competition, earning the opportunity to perform as part of a newly formed band at the iconic HMV Empire Coventry. Her debut EP ‘Constellation Prize’ is released on Friday (July 17). Amelia will also be performing at an intimate EP launch event at The Station House in Kenilworth on Tuesday August 4 at 7pm. Visit www.tiktok.com/@ameliaxguitar to find out more.

After Six O'Clock in Leamington: What a Small-Town Evening Actually Looks Like in 2026

Wed, 15 Jul 2026 16:05:56 +0100

SIX PM on Regent Street in Leamington looks different from six PM on Charing Cross Road. The pace slows and the traffic thins. The specific rhythm of what happens next has a shape that is genuinely small-town rather than metropolitan. Half of a Warwickshire market town evening is what it looks like from the outside. Pubs are busy, cafes stay open, the Pump Room Gardens fill up on warm nights. The other half is what everyone is doing on their phones in the gaps between those places. The second half deserves as much attention as the first. It is where most of the actual downtime happens between social plans. The specific mix of what people are doing on their phones tells you a lot about how Leamington evenings work. The Physical Evening on the Ground The visible half of a Leamington evening is largely as it has been for decades, with some 2020s adjustments. The pubs on The Parade, Bath Street, and Regent Grove open around five and stay busy until eleven. The cafes on the parade lines follow a slightly earlier curve, most winding down by nine. Restaurants have expanded in number and range since the mid-2010s. Italian, Indian, Thai, gastropub, and a growing set of independents fill out the main streets and the side turnings. Pre-booking is normal on weekend nights, walking-in is fine on weekdays. The Pump Room Gardens and a stretched walk along the Leam are the outdoor part of the equation in warm weather. Church Street and Warwick Street pick up foot traffic through the summer months. The town centre is genuinely walkable, which shapes how the evenings run in a way most Warwickshire residents take for granted. The On-Phone Evening in the Gaps The invisible half of the evening happens on phones between the visible parts. Six specific categories do most of the on-phone work in an average Leamington evening: • Streaming video. Netflix, Amazon Prime, and BBC iPlayer sit at the top of most people's evening rotation. The choice between two-hour films and thirty-minute episodes usually reflects how much of the evening is booked with other things. • Social media scrolling. Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter each have their own evening rhythm. Instagram spikes around dinner, TikTok tends to peak later, and Twitter sees its highest use around news moments earlier in the evening. • Message and chat threads. WhatsApp group chats, family threads, and one-to-one conversations fill in the gaps between longer-form activities. Small-town evenings often feature more of these than metropolitan ones, since more of the social plan-making happens in advance rather than on the fly. • Reading. Kindle sessions and long-form articles fit the couch-and-cuppa window well. E-reader use is more common in Warwickshire evenings than dedicated print reading, largely because the phone is already in hand. • Podcasts and background audio. Podcasts, Spotify sessions, and Audible tracks fill kitchen prep, wind-down, and short walks between locations. Signal dependence is low once the download is cached, which suits patchy Warwickshire signal in the older parts of town. • Mobile gaming and mobile casino. Mobile casino Fruity King runs on the same signal-dependence profile as most operator apps. Home Wi-Fi works fluidly for the format, while street 4G degrades noticeably in the older streets away from the town centre. Not everyone uses all six. Most Leamington evenings involve some rotation across the ones that fit that specific evening, with the choice usually made based on whatever else is planned for the night. What the Numbers Actually Say The picture matches what the national data shows. ONS Time Use data found UK adults spend an average of three hours 44 minutes each day on entertainment and other free-time activities. Two hours 16 minutes of that is watching television, with the rest split between other categories. Around half of UK adults spent at least ten minutes each day using a computer or digital device outside of TV time. That figure has risen year on year since 2020. It is now a permanent fixture in the national leisure picture. Small towns like Leamington run slightly ahead of the national average on physical socialising and slightly behind on device time. The exact gap varies by neighbourhood, age band, and weeknight, but the direction is consistent across surveys. How the Two Halves Actually Fit Together The physical and on-phone halves of a Leamington evening are not in competition with each other. They are two components of a shape that runs across the same three or four hours. A typical Leamington evening might look like this. Dinner at home while WhatsApp lights up between courses, then a walk to a pub with Spotify in one earbud. The phone barely gets touched for the hour at the pub, and streaming closes out the night. None of the categories in the second half of the evening are replacements for the first half. The first half is where the actual social contact happens, the meals get eaten, and the walks and coffees actually take place. The second half is the connective tissue between those things. It is how the evening flows across the gaps, and it is where most of the mobile leisure decisions actually get made. What This Says About Leamington Evenings A Leamington evening in 2026 is a specific balance that other kinds of towns handle differently. Metropolitan evenings often see more of the leisure happen inside the on-phone half. Crowded physical spaces and longer commutes shape the balance. Rural evenings often see less of the on-phone half in the strict sense. The signal is worse and the physical rhythms are shaped by different pressures. Leamington sits between the two in a way that Warwickshire residents recognise instantly. The visible half of the evening is still the one that shapes how the town feels. But the invisible half is where most of the entertainment time lands. The next time you glance at the phones on a Regent Street bar's tables, that is the shape you are looking at. Article by Lisa Thomas

BOWLS - Warwickshire Women suffer narrow two-shot defeat against Gloucestershire in Middle England League

Wed, 15 Jul 2026 15:00:58 +0100

WARWICKSHIRE Women suffered a cruel 89-87 two-shot defeat against Gloucestershire in the club's second Middle England League match of the season.

Warwickshire led by 12 shots after 10 ends but could not maintain their lead as Gloucestershire staged a comeback to triumph by two shots at Pineholt Bowls Club.

The highest winning rink went to Warwickshire's Pat Gagg with Donna Kerr (Lillington), Dawn Horne and Anita Cowdrill (both Royal Leamington Spa) as three shots on the ninth end saw the quartet claim a 19-11 win. Skip Maureen Edwards with Becky Lever (both Rugby Thornfield), Pippa Mace (Lillington) and Jenny Wickens (RLS) recovered from a slow start to take four shots on the fifth end and secure a 20-13 success. Jenny Corn (Lillington) with Jacqui Ashley (RLS), Vanessa Brazier (Rugby Railway) and Ros Taylor (Avenue Coventry) found themselves level until the last end when four shots helped the quartet to a 14-11 win. However, Debbie Bloxham (Stratford) with Joy Cooke (Sherwood Park), Jayne Henfrey (Lillington) and Wendy Holloway (Welford) led 15-1 after nine ends only for Gloucestershire to stage a remarkable comeback to triumph 17-16. And Gill Maund (Sherwood Park), Caroline Halliwell (RLS), Lynne Fowler (Southam) and Ann Harwood (Nuneaton) were level at nine-all after nine ends before Gloucestershire pulled away to win 19-10. The Warwickshire quartet of Pat Moore (Three Spires) with Nicola Bradshaw (Rugby Thornfield), Lynne Innes (Stratford) and Chris Hurst (RLS) suffered a similar fate as they kept pace for the first half of the game but lost the momentum in the second half to lose 18-8.

GP services in Coventry and Warwickshire among best in the country

Wed, 15 Jul 2026 12:12:22 +0100

GP practices in Coventry and Warwickshire are a month the best in the country according to patients. They were ranked in fourth in England in this year’s GP Patient Survey results for patient satisfaction – up two place on last year’s sixth position. And the region was also home to one of the two practices in the country to achieve a 100% score in overall experience, Budbrooke Medical Centre in Warwick. It achieved the perfect score after every patient who returned the survey described their experience of the practice as good. Coventry and Warwickshire achieved its ranking after four in five patients surveyed said their overall experience of their GP practice was good or very good, which was above the national average of 77 per cent. Other key takeaways from the survey included: * 100 per cent of GP practices across Coventry and Warwickshire offer online services through the NHS App, with 46 per cent of patients ordering online prescriptions, up from 43 per cent on last year. * 62 per cent of patients said they found it easy to use their practice website, up from 55 per cent last year and above the national average of 58 per cent. * 60 per cent found it easy to contact their GP practice using the NHS app, up from 58 per cent last year and above the national average of 54 per cent * 88 per cent reported receptionists and administrative staff were helpful, up from 86 per cent last year and just above the national average of 85 per cent. 64 per cent felt it was easy to get through to someone on the phone, up from 60 per cent last year and above the national average of 57 per cent. * 92 per cent of patients were happy with their level of involvement with decisions made about their care. There were also positive results for other areas of primary care. For dental access 90 per cent of people said they were able to get an NHS dental appointment, up one per cent and above the national average of 81 per cent. And 91 per cent reported positive experiences of using pharmacy services, up from 89 per cent last year and two per cent above the national average. Dr Will Taylor, chief medical officer at NHS Coventry and Warwickshire ICB, said: “This is yet again, another set of encouraging results for Coventry and Worcestershire practices, who continue to work to improve access to GP services for their local communities. “Our practices continue to make improvements including by introducing better telephone and online systems, as well as enabling better access to features of the NHS App to allow ordering repeat prescriptions, accessing medical records and receiving messages about their care and treatment. “There is always improvement to be made to ensure people have access to the care they need when they need it, in a way that works for them, but we are really pleased to see the improvements our practices have made over the last year.” Sarah Davies, practice manager at Budbrooke Medical Centre, said: “We’re delighted to be one of the two practices in the country to score 100 per cent in overall patient experience. Feedback from our patients is extremely important to us and we’re delighted to hear they are having such a positive experience when accessing our services. “Our GP Patient Survey result is a testament to the hard work and dedication of all of our staff who are committed to providing the best possible care to our patients. I’d like to thank everyone who completed the survey, as well as our exceptional staff for all the work they do.”

FOOTBALL - Annual Railway Football Tournament has now raised more than £20,000 for charity

Wed, 15 Jul 2026 12:00:41 +0100

THIS year's Railway Football Tournament, held at Racing Club Warwick's Townsend Meadow ground, raised more than £7,000 for charity.

The annual charity event has now raised more than £20,000 for charity and other good causes.

Organiser Gary Smith set up the tournament in 2022 in support of the MND Association. He has staged the event every year since. The 2026 edition featured 35 teams and around 350 players with eight trophies up for grabs. And this year's competition raised £7,175.12 to take the overall funds raised to £20,984.83 across five years of hosting the event.

Smith, who works for Network Rail, said: "It's our biggest total yet by some margin, I can't thank everyone who takes part enough. "I want to say a massive thank you once again to Gary Vella [Racing Club Warwick chairman], without him this would not be possible, and all of his staff members at the club. "My committee members Mark Ryder, Benjamin Fairhurst, Phil Langdon, Hugh Robbins and Phil Allen. "All my volunteers and the amazing photographers David Bray and Jason Grant. "The seven match officials and everyone who donated money and a prize for the raffle. "Nadia Davies from Colebridge Trust and Jacqui Grove and Sophie Hele from Helping Hands for coming to support on the day. "And finally, a big thank you to the lovely Lesley Husbands and her son Rory who this year sold a whopping £943.24 worth of raffle tickets."

The funds have been split between several charities and good causes. Donations have been made to the Colebridge Trust, Helping Hands, the British Liver Trust, Legend on the Bench and the MS Society. Funds were also donated to other causes including Remember Rufus and those diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease.

Appeal for Warwickshire dog lovers to help pay blind Dolly's vet bill

Wed, 15 Jul 2026 12:00:00 +0100

BLIND bulldog Dolly needed emergency surgery to help with her breathing – but her new owner can’t pay the bill. Phil Gregory, a dog rescuer from Leamington, fell in love with Dolly as soon as he met her and adopted her earlier this month. She has been through a lot in her short life already, he explained. She was previously dumped and found as a stray and has had to have three c-sections, her eyes totally removed and has breathing issues. As soon as Phil adopted her, he took her to the vets to have her soft pallet removed in a bid to help her and as a result he has racked up a vet’s bill of £3,000 that he can’t afford to pay. The rescue centre in Donchurch, Rugby who were looking after Dolly have offered to help but can’t pay the full amount. He is appealing for fellow dog-lovers to help him out. Phil added: “They are a rescue and money is tight as it is with the huge influx of dogs. I’m asking for your help to pay this bill please, I just want to give Dolly the love she deserves.” Visit www.gofundme.com/f/dolly-the-blind-bulldog to donate.

FOOTBALL - Leamington play out pre-season draw with Brackley Town

Wed, 15 Jul 2026 09:00:21 +0100

RAJ Palit scored directly from a corner as Leamington played out a 2-2 draw with Brackely Town in pre-season.

Palit drew the Brakes level in the second half after Owen Farmer's early goal put Leamington into the lead at the Your Co-op Community Stadium.

Goals from Tahvon Campbell and Matt Lowe had turned the game on its head in the first half before Palit's set-piece drew Leamington level. Brackley suffered relegation from the National League last season and will play in the National League North in 2026/27. However, the Brakes stunned the Step Two side after just five minutes when Farmer intercepted a loose pass and fired a low effort into the net. The visitors equalised on 17 minutes as Campbell forced Charlie Cooper's cross over the line to draw Andy Whing's side level. And Brackley completed the turnaround on 34 minutes when George Harmon delivered a dangerous cross into the box and Lowe sent a diving header into the net. However, summer signing Palit equalised for the Brakes on 74 minutes with a goal directly from a corner. Leamington continue their pre-season campaign against Coventry City under-21s on Friday, July 17 with kick-off at 7.30pm at the Your Co-op Community Stadium.

MPs Pass Hillsborough Law in Bid to End State Cover-Ups - NATIONAL NEWS

Wed, 15 Jul 2026 07:38:49 +0100

MPs have given their approval to the Hillsborough Law, legislation designed to stop public bodies and officials covering up failures by the state.

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer told the House of Commons that Britain “stands on the precipice of change” as the bill, officially titled the Public Office (Accountability) Bill, cleared its final Commons stages on Tuesday. The law places a duty on public authorities and officials to be truthful and to cooperate fully with official inquiries and investigations.

The legislation takes its name from the 1989 Hillsborough disaster, in which 97 people died following a crush at the FA Cup semi-final between Liverpool and Nottingham Forest. A later inquiry found that police leaders had misrepresented what happened, wrongly blaming Liverpool supporters while suppressing evidence of their own shortcomings. Andy Burnham, who is expected to succeed Sir Keir as prime minister, welcomed the bill as delivering “justice for ordinary people going forward” and called it “some legacy” for the outgoing prime minister. The bill still needs to pass through the House of Lords before it can be signed into law, having been held up for months by disagreements over how the new duty of candour would apply to the security services. Addressing MPs, Sir Keir said the Hillsborough families had campaigned “so that no family like them should ever have to endure and suffer what they went through.” He added: “What they have done will protect individuals and families that they’ll never know, they’ll never meet but who’ll never have to go through what they went through.” The prime minister went further, framing the bill as addressing a wider pattern of injustice. “This is not just a bill for the 97, although it is that, it is a bill for every single working person in this country because, let’s face it, there is a class element to this,” he said. “Time and again the cry for justice was ignored by the British state because of who the victims are, because they’re working class, because they’re black, because they’re women and girls.” He pointed to other tragedies where victims and families had struggled to get answers from the state, citing the Grenfell Tower fire, the Manchester Arena bombing, the infected blood scandal, and cases involving grooming gangs. Shortly before the bill passed its third reading, Sir Keir told MPs:

“We stand on the precipice of change. This is a moment of real significance for our country.”

At a later reception with bereaved campaigners, he said their efforts had made a “profound impact” on him, and pledged: “Whatever happens next in my life, I’m never giving up on this.” Burnham, who is set to take over as prime minister on 20 July, described the legislation as “momentous” and said it would “change the way this country thinks and works about justice.” He called it “a rewiring of the state and a passing of power from the authorities to the hands of ordinary people,” and thanked Sir Keir for his “commitment to a country based on justice and fairness.” Not everyone welcomed the way the bill reached its final vote. The Conservatives accused the government of rushing the legislation through after tabling a string of last-minute amendments. Shadow Justice Secretary Nick Timothy said the changes had been introduced in a “shambles” and claimed ministers had made “contradictory promises” to both bereaved families and the intelligence agencies, only to now “pretend there’s no problem.” He suggested Sir Keir was “desperate for a legacy and to claim the credit” before handing over to Burnham, and argued the government had “watered down the protections specifically proposed back in January for MI5, MI6 and GCHQ.” Justice Minister Catherine Atkinson defended the amendments, saying they would ensure the duty of candour “applies to all individual intelligence officers while establishing secure procedures for the disclosure of sensitive information.” The dispute over the intelligence services had derailed an earlier attempt to pass the bill in January, after a proposed amendment would have required MI5 and MI6 officers to seek approval from their agency heads before cooperating with inquiries. Campaigners and a number of Labour MPs objected, arguing the security services should be fully bound by the law, pointing to past instances, including the 2017 Manchester Arena bombing, where MI5 had supplied inaccurate information. Responding to further criticism from Conservative shadow justice minister Kieran Mullan, Sir Keir said bereaved families had waited “years too long” for reform, adding: “I made a promise to these families, looked them in the eye, and said I would bring this forward as soon as I could. And I’ve kept that promise.” The bill was a Labour manifesto commitment ahead of the 2024 general election, and also provides for legal aid to be made available to victims of disasters or state-related deaths. Sir Keir had originally pledged to have it passed by 15 April 2025, the 36th anniversary of the Hillsborough disaster, but that deadline slipped after the January debate was abandoned amid pressure from campaigners and Labour backbenchers. Downing Street has said it wants the legislation on the statute book by April next year, in time for the disaster’s 37th anniversary.

Main Image: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/

Teenagers Could Face Overnight Social Media Shutdown Under New Government Plans - NATIONAL NEWS

Wed, 15 Jul 2026 07:23:36 +0100

Millions of 16 and 17-year-olds across the UK could soon find their phones going quiet at midnight, under fresh government proposals designed to tackle the grip social media has on young people’s lives.

Ministers have unveiled plans for a default overnight curfew that would block access to platforms including Instagram, TikTok and YouTube between midnight and 6am.

Alongside the curfew, the government wants so-called “addictive” design features such as auto-play video and infinite scroll to be switched off by default for this age group. Officials argue the combined effect would be better sleep, sharper focus at school and college, and more quality family time. Technology Secretary Liz Kendall said the changes were intended to help young people get the rest they need while still allowing them to enjoy technology safely. The proposals build on measures announced in June, which will see under-16s banned outright from a range of social media platforms. A Mixed Reaction Not everyone is convinced the plan makes sense. Conservative shadow education secretary Laura Trott called the plan “a dog’s dinner” and dismissed the proposals as confused, arguing that an optional curfew teenagers can simply disable achieves little. Child safety campaigners have also raised concerns. Andy Burrows, chief executive of the Molly Rose Foundation, argued the announcement amounted to another fragmented step rather than the thorough safety strategy campaigners have been calling for. He suggested outgoing Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer would leave office having introduced a ban without a proper delivery plan, leaving his likely successor, Andy Burnham, to pick up the pieces. Other experts warned the policy could backfire for vulnerable children. Professor Sonia Livingstone of the London School of Economics said that while curbing push notifications overnight made sense, cutting off a struggling teenager’s ability to reach trusted support at night could do real harm. Meanwhile, Dame Rachel de Souza, England’s Children’s Commissioner, struck a more balanced note, saying young people themselves have been clear they don’t want an outright ban, but do want protection from addictive scrolling. She said she would be watching closely to ensure any curfew is genuinely effective. The Evidence Behind the Plan The proposals follow a month-long government trial involving around 300 teenagers, who were split into groups: some had social apps switched off completely, some faced an overnight block between 9pm and 7am, others had usage capped at one hour a day, and a control group saw no changes at all. Of the options tested, the overnight curfew produced the strongest results: better sleep, livelier family evenings, and the least hassle for parents to enforce. However, Professor Pete Etchells of Bath Spa University urged caution, pointing out that the trial was small and only offers a partial picture of how families will cope with restrictions in practice. Lessons From Australia The UK plans echo Australia’s own social media ban for under-16s, introduced in December. That scheme has faced criticism after reports that many teenagers found ways around the block, raising doubts about how effectively age restrictions can be enforced. There had also been speculation that the UK government might crack down on VPNs, which can be used to bypass age checks. However, ministers said newly commissioned research found little evidence that significant numbers of children were using VPNs to get around the rules, easing fears of a wider clampdown on the tools. What Happens Next The government also confirmed it will introduce separate safeguards for children using AI chatbots, including requiring providers to build in regular breaks for under-18 users. Officials hope to bring the new measures before Parliament by the end of 2026, timing them to take effect alongside the under-16s social media ban expected next spring.

New Abbey Fields swimming pools make a splash

Wed, 15 Jul 2026 07:00:00 +0100

THE NEW swimming pools at Abbey Fields in Kenilworth are already making a splash. An opening ceremony took place on Wednesday July 8 with chairman of Warwick District Council Coun Pam Redford cutting the ribbon. The pools then officially welcomed the public on Saturday (July 11) with a special weekend of water-related activities for all the family to enjoy. This included inflatables, family swims, lane swimming and Hydrohex, a new virtual aqua group exercise class. The brand-new facilities comprising two indoor pools are the result of a multi-million pound investment by the council to provide additional year-round pool-space for the people of Kenilworth and the wider district. As well as the main training pool, the additional family pool with its movable floor will facilitate a wide variety of water-based sessions as well as enhanced opportunities for the disabled to access the water using the latest ‘pool-pod’ lift technology. Visitors to the Abbey Fields park will also have full access to the centre’s conservatory style cafe. Visit www.everyoneactive.com/centre/abbey-fields-swimming-pool for more details.

MP considers policy challenges of Artificial Intelligence

Tue, 14 Jul 2026 17:00:00 +0100

Kenilworth and Southam MP Sir Jeremy Wright considers the policy challenges posed by Artificial Intelligence. ARTIFICIAL intelligence presents one of the defining tensions in technology policy today and is characterised by the pull between moving fast to remain competitive with allies and adversaries alike, and moving carefully enough to get the fundamentals right.
Generative AI is different to most regulatory challenges because it is a technology which could be dangerous in itself, not just in the wrong hands. Regulation, in this context, is not a single lever but a series of judgement calls – on safety, on copyright and on how much power sits with the state versus the developers of frontier models. I have met organisations across the spectrum of opinion on this, from those who urge caution about the most extreme risks AI may pose, to those who are optimistic about its potential to transform our economy and public services. We should pay careful attention to both perspectives.
As part of Evidence Week in Parliament, I spoke with researchers from the Tony Blair Institute, who set out how AI could help government test and deliver evidence-based policy, moving public services from reactive to preventative, and from standardised to personalised. I also met experts from the Oxford Martin AI Governance Initiative, whose work focuses on how the UK can secure sovereign access to frontier AI, a question of national resilience as much as economic opportunity.
These topics are a longstanding interest of mine. As Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport, I spoke about the need for both a skilled workforce and clear ethical foundations if Britain was to lead in AI. Outside Government, I went on to chair the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Digital Regulation and Responsibility from 2019 to 2024, and the questions we grappled with then remain just as live today.
Part of getting this right means ensuring Parliament itself keeps up. There are now structured training pathways available to staff here, ranging from basic grounding in what generative AI is and how it works, through to more advanced modules on prompt engineering and critical thinking when using these tools. Equipping our own institution with this literacy is a small but necessary step in making sure our democracy is not left behind by the technology it is being asked to regulate.
There is also a useful parallel here with social media regulation. As Secretary of State, I introduced the Online Harms White Paper in April 2019, setting out the case for a statutory duty of care on tech platforms. It took until October 2023 for the Online Safety Act to receive Royal Assent, and full implementation has continued to stretch out since, with key duties still being phased in as we head through 2026. That is the better part of seven years from first principle to practical effect. AI regulation cannot afford so slow a path since the technology moves faster, and the risks of getting the sequencing wrong, whether through inaction or overreach, are more significant. Still the example of the Online Safety Act shows the value of getting the detail right, rather than rushing to legislate for its own sake.
The task ahead for Government is not whether to recognise that AI will change our public services and economy (that much is inevitable) but how it chooses to shape that change. Done well, AI can make services more responsive and government more effective. Done carelessly, it risks entrenching huge new problems as fast as it solves old ones. Getting this balance right is the work now facing us as legislators. Sir Jermey Wright – “The task ahead for Government is not whether to recognise that AI will change our public services and economy (that much is inevitable) but how it chooses to shape that change.”

Boost for mental health support on major roads with new charity partnership

Tue, 14 Jul 2026 16:31:00 +0100

NATIONAL Highways has teamed up with a mental health charity to help people get support quickly and easily, as part of a new 12‑month trial focused on early intervention and preventing crises.

New signage with QR codes will be put up in busy locations near motorways and major A-roads, helping connect people to trusted, local mental health support services.

The partnership with the charity Chasing the Stigma, through its Hub of Hope platform, aims to provide timely, accessible support for people who may be struggling, helping them to find help before reaching crisis point. National Highways continues its work to keep people safe on our network, with traffic officers and control room teams regularly responding to welfare-related calls and working closely with emergency services. Tragically, around 50 suspected suicides are estimated to occur on motorways and major A-roads each year, accounting for around 20 per cent of all deaths on the network.

Nicola Tweedie, National Highways’ suicide prevention Lead, said: “This partnership is an important step forward for National Highways as we continue our work to reduce and prevent harm across our network. “We know mental health is complex and not something we can tackle on our own. We don’t want anyone to come to harm on our roads, which is why working with Chasing the Stigma is so important. It allows us to bring together the right expertise to better support people who may be struggling. “Access to help at the right moment can make all the difference. By making it easier for people to find support quickly, we hope to help people get the help they need sooner and, most importantly, before things reach crisis point.”

Chasing the Stigma already works successfully with major organisations including Network Rail, local authorities and a wide range of community settings such as shopping centres, GP surgeries and libraries. The Hub of Hope platform brings together more than 14,000 mental health support services across the UK, allowing people to quickly find help that is appropriate to their needs and location.

Jake Mills, CEO and founder of Chasing the Stigma, said: “We’re incredibly proud to be partnering with National Highways. By working together to provide signposting to the Hub of Hope through signage across the road network, we’re making it easier for people to find help, wherever they are. “This partnership reflects a shared commitment to improving access to mental health support and encouraging people to reach out before they reach crisis point. “Together, we want everyone to know that support is available, and that nobody has to face their mental health challenges alone.”

Insights gathered throughout the trial will be shared with partners to help build a better understanding of local need and inform more targeted mental health support and provision in the future.

Fresh Feeding Made Easier As Just for Pets Launches Years Online.

Tue, 14 Jul 2026 16:24:51 +0100

Customers can now shop one of the Uk’s highest rated fresh dog food brands online at Just for Pets. Following a successful launch in stores last year, Just for Pets announced that the full store range of fresh dog food, treats and supplements is now available to order online, making it even easier for pet parents to discover the benefits of fresh nutrition. Just for Pets was proud to become the first retailer to introduce Years into stores, giving customers the opportunity to see, learn about and purchase the innovative fresh dog food from specialist pet experts. Following overwhelming customer demand the partnership has now expanded online. Years offers gently cooked meals that stay naturally fresh in the cupboard, alongside functional supplements and natural treats designed to support every stage of a dogs life and give you more Years with your dog. Jack Bocock store manager at Just for Pets said “Since launching Years in stores we’ve seen an incredible response from customers looking for healthier feeding options for their dogs. Making the range available online is the next step in making fresh nutrition even more accessible, whether customers prefer to shop in store or from home.” Visit the Just for Pets website to explore the full Years range or pop into your local Just for Pets store for the very best and latest pet advice. https://justforpets.co.uk/

BBC Loses Over Half a Million Licence Fee Payers Following Scandals - NATIONAL NEWS

Tue, 14 Jul 2026 13:01:58 +0100

The number of households paying the BBC licence fee has dropped by 539,000 over the past year, according to the corporation’s newly published annual report, bringing the total down to 23.3 million, the lowest level since 1999.

It marks the biggest yearly fall since the pandemic, when the BBC lost 738,000 payers.

The decline follows a difficult year for the broadcaster, which saw a Panorama documentary criticised for editing footage of Donald Trump in a way that suggested he had encouraged the storming of the Capitol building in 2021. The edit has led to a $10 billion lawsuit against the BBC. The corporation also faced criticism after an internal review found that the documentary “Gaza: How To Survive A Warzone” breached editorial guidelines by not disclosing that its child narrator’s father held a role in the Hamas run government. The controversies contributed to the resignations of former Director-General Tim Davie and BBC News chief executive Deborah Turness. Revenue Still Rises Despite fewer people paying the fee, the BBC’s income from it actually increased slightly to £3.88 billion, up £36 million on the previous year, thanks to the licence fee rising to £180 per household. However, the corporation says this is still not enough to fund its services properly. New Director-General Matt Brittin said the falling number of payers was adding to the financial pressure facing the BBC. Presenter Pay Published The report also revealed how much the BBC’s top presenters are paid. Former Radio 2 host Scott Mills was the highest earner, on between £745,000 and £749,999, before he was dismissed in April over conduct allegations. Radio 1’s Greg James and Radio Ulster’s Stephen Nolan were the next highest paid, while Laura Kuenssberg remains the BBC’s highest paid journalist, earning up to £409,999. Public Trust Falls The report also shows a fall in the number of people who believe the BBC is impartial, with weekly usage of BBC News among adults dropping from 74 percent to 72 percent. BBC chairman Samir Shah said the past year’s problems had affected public confidence in the broadcaster’s journalism, but said reforms had been put in place to deal with editorial issues more quickly and openly in future.

Juggling act for gangster on the run in classic comedy at Loft Theatre

Tue, 14 Jul 2026 12:36:00 +0100

THERE’S a juggling act to perform in comedy One Man, Two Guvnors at Leamington’s Loft Theatre. Set in Brighton in 1963, One Man, Two Guvnors sees Francis Henshall sacked from his skiffle band and out of work. He can’t be kept down for too long, and soon he has secured not one, but two dubious new ‘guvnors’. There’s just one problem, they mustn’t know about each other. With money to be made and a love interest to woo, Francis has got his hands full. Juggling the work of a small-town gangster and a man on the run from the police, can he keep himself and his bosses out of trouble long enough to bank some cash and win the hand of the love of his life? Richard Bean’s celebrated English adaptation of the 1746 Carlo Goldoni play The Servant of Two Masters exploded onto the National Theatre stage in 2011, and was their first play uploaded for free online during the lockdown of 2020. Loft director Craig Shelton said: “Bringing this production to life has been an absolute joy. The rehearsal room has been filled with energy, creativity and, above all, laughter. Comedy only works when a company trusts one another completely, and this cast has embraced every pratfall, every double take and every ridiculous twist with generosity and commitment.” The production runs from July 15 to 25. Visit www.lofttheatrecompany.com for full details.

FOOTBALL - Racing Club Warwick held to draw by Irish side St. Mochta's in Dublin pre-season trip

Tue, 14 Jul 2026 12:00:29 +0100

RACING Club Warwick concluded their pre-season trip to Ireland with a 1-1 draw against St. Mochta's in Dublin.

The Racers led through an early goal from James Hancocks only for Michael Scott to draw the home side level after the break at Porterstown Road.

Warwick's main sponsors Versa Sportswear funded the club's trip to Ireland. St. Mochta's play in the Leinster Senior League Senior Division at Step Three of the Irish football pyramid. Racing Club Warwick are next in action against Worcester Raiders on Saturday, July 18 with kick-off at 3pm at the Diary of a Debt Collector Stadium.

New £2.4m food store built on former WW2 airfield gets off to flying start

Tue, 14 Jul 2026 10:55:36 +0100

A NEW £2.4m food store built on a former World War Two RAF airfield has got off to a flying start after its doors opened to the public for the first time. Hundreds of shoppers attended the launch on July 11 in the heart of Southam’s Flying Fields development. The impressive Heart of England Co-op store has been developed with the environment in mind. It boasts a host of green features from state-of-the-art solar panels to built-in bird and bat boxes. Pupils from St Mary’s Catholic Primary School took part in the opening ceremony, helping store manager Stella Turner to cut the ribbon. The Heart of England Co-op presented the school with a goodwill cheque for £500, with a further £200 donation being made to Southam Foodbank. Free entertainment on ‘take-off’ day included facepainting sessions and bucket drumming workshops led by Top of the Rocks, a music business based in Warwick. Complimentary goodie bags were handed to the first 200 customers. Children were also able to take part in a colouring competition and had selfies taken with Cooper the Bear. Heart of England Co-op chief executive Steve Browne says he is proud of the 3,000 sq ft store. “This is a flagship branch as it’s the first store we’ve opened in our new visual identity and marks the start of an exciting new brand rollout for us. The store is located in the heart of an amazing new community. A great deal of thought has gone into its offering to our customers and members. “We have created 14 new jobs, and we specifically targeted people living in this locality.” In addition to a wide range of meat, dairy and grocery products, shoppers can enjoy a comprehensive selection of hot, frozen and chilled food, as well as chilled alcohol. The store also boasts a Local at Heart range showcasing regional products. Other features include manned and self-scanning check-out tills, parcel lockers, hot food to go from Deli Co, a Tango Ice Blast Machine, Smokin’ Bean self-serve coffee, free wi-fi, a National Lottery point, PayPoint service and a food bank bin. The 24-space car park is protected by security cameras and includes two bays for the disabled and three with EV chargers. Steve Browne says he is particularly pleased with the new store’s ‘stand-out’ green credentials: “The environment is foremost in our thoughts whenever we launch a new building, and this is the greenest one we have ever created. “It uses no natural gas, and the LED lighting has presence detection in the aisles which turns the lights on and off as shoppers enter and leave. “On bright days the solar panels will be sufficient to run the store entirely off grid. We also engage in rainwater harvesting to keep our plants healthy and look after the local wildlife by having specialist bat and bird boxes built into both sides of the building.” The store conforms with the BREEAM ‘Good’ Standard criteria, exceeding regulatory levels in areas such as environmental performance, energy and resource efficiency, sustainable construction practices, waste reduction and recycling measures, ecological impact and biodiversity. “Make no mistake, we have one long term aim in regard to our carbon footprint and that is to continually strive to reach net zero,” added Steve Browne. Situated seven miles from Royal Leamington Spa and around 12 miles from Rugby, Flying Fields is a development of more than 500 homes with a community hall owned by Southam Town Council To commemorate its heritage as a training base for pilots during WW2, many of the roads have been named after wartime aircraft. A large metal sculpture of a Wellington bomber stands at the entrance to the estate to further cement the present with the past. “It’s a buzzing new community and we feel both excited and privileged to be a big part of it,” said Steve Browne. The new store, which is on Spitfire Road, is open from 7am to 9pm every day.

Electric Car Drivers Face New Mileage Tax, Including Trips Abroad - NATIONAL NEWS

Tue, 14 Jul 2026 09:49:53 +0100

Motorists who drive electric vehicles will be charged a new tax based on how far they travel, including journeys taken outside the UK, under government plans confirmed this week.

The scheme, known as eVED, is due to come into force in April 2028. Under the plan, EV owners will pay 3p for every mile driven, while plug-in hybrid drivers will be charged 1.5p a mile.

The government estimates a typical electric car driver will pay around £240 a year once the charge is introduced, with about six million EV owners expected to be affected by the time it takes effect. Overseas Driving Included One of the more debated aspects of the scheme is that it will apply to mileage driven abroad as well as at home. In a consultation response published on Monday, the government said that exempting foreign travel would have required the use of location data to track where vehicles were being driven, which it said raised privacy concerns. Officials also noted that only around 2 percent of the total distance covered by UK cars each year takes place overseas. Even so, some industry figures have questioned the approach. Ben Nelmes, of the consultancy New AutoMotive, said it was “absurd” that families driving abroad would still be taxed by the UK government. He gave the example of a family travelling from Calais to the ski resort of Val d’Isère in France, who would face a bill of around £37.50 despite not driving on any UK roads during the trip. Background to the Policy Chancellor Rachel Reeves first announced the tax in the Budget last November. The government has said the change is designed to ensure electric vehicle owners contribute fairly to the cost of maintaining the road network, as revenue from fuel duty declines with the shift away from petrol and diesel cars. Drivers of conventional fuel vehicles currently pay an average of about £600 a year in fuel duty. Officials expect the scheme to raise £1.1 billion in its first year, 2028-29, rising to £1.9 billion by 2030-31. How the Charge Will Work Drivers will be set an estimated annual mileage figure in advance. If they travel less than expected, the difference will be carried over as a credit for the following year; if they travel more, they will be charged extra. However, the government has acknowledged that the DVLA’s current computer systems will not be able to process automatic refunds for drivers who overpay when the scheme first launches. An earlier proposal requiring independent mileage checks on EVs less than three years old has been dropped. Instead, drivers of newer vehicles will be asked to self-report their mileage until their first MOT is due. Mixed Reaction Mr Nelmes welcomed the decision to scrap mandatory mileage checks but said other parts of the scheme remained “untested” and called on ministers to reconsider aspects of the policy before it is introduced. The government has said that 80 percent of the revenue raised through the tax will go towards £7.5 billion of measures to support the take-up of electric vehicles, including grants of up to £3,750 for buyers of new EVs, which were introduced last summer. The Department for Transport said the changes had been designed so that EV and plug-in hybrid drivers continue to pay less overall than they would through equivalent fuel duty, and that it remained committed to supporting the shift to electric vehicles.

Investigation continues after a body was found in the river in Leamington

Tue, 14 Jul 2026 09:45:10 +0100

POLICE are still looking for answers after a body was found in the river in Leamington three months ago. The body of Adam Lucas was recovered from the river in Victoria Park on Wednesday April 15. A subsequent post-mortem found he died from injuries consistent with being assaulted. Warwickshire Police’s investigation into the 51 year-old’s death is ongoing and so far, officers have seized and are reviewing thousands of hours of CCTV footage. Police have spoken to people in the local area to try and get a better picture of exactly what happened to Adam, and five people have been arrested in connection with his death. A 27 year-old man from Birmingham arrested on suspicion of murder has been bailed. A 23 year-old woman from Birmingham arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender has been bailed. She was also subsequently arrested on suspicion of murder and bailed. A 44 year-old woman from Leamington and a 43 year-old man from Leamington – both arrested on suspicion of murder – have been bailed. A 53 year-old man from Leamington arrested on suspicion of murder was released with no further action. Detective Inspector Gareth Unett, who’s leading the investigation, said: “We’re really keen to work out where Adam went and what he did in the hours before he died, and we’re urging anyone with information to get in touch. “We’re confident someone knows what happened and may not yet have come forward. We understand they may have concerns about speaking to police. “We’d urge them to speak to officers so we can help get justice for what happened to Adam. “Did you see or hear anything that might help us understand how Adam died? Do you know where he was in the eight hours before he was found? “Do you know why Adam might have been assaulted, who by or can you think of anyone he might have spoken to during those times? “No matter how small or insignificant it seems, your information could prove to be the crucial piece that helps us work out what happened to him.”

CRICKET - Leamington claim four-wicket victory against Stourbridge

Tue, 14 Jul 2026 09:00:07 +0100

KALAN Niyarepola took four wickets and scored quick runs with the bat as Leamington CC claimed a four-wicket win against Stourbridge.

Niyarepola took the crucial wicket of Syed Bukhari and claimed three further wickets before blasting 22 runs from 12 balls with the bat at Arlington Avenue.

Leamington bowled Stourbridge out for 155 after Bukhari recorded a half-century as Jason Jakeman chipped in with three wickets. And steady runs from Leamington top, middle and lower order saw the home side reach the required total in 31.5 overs with four wickets in hand. The result means Leamington sit fourth in the Birmingham Premier League Premier Division Two table. Stourbridge won the toss and elected to bat as Leamington made early inroads with the ball. Tom Warner (1-23) removed Stourbridge opener Jujhar Johal (4) in the fifth over while Archie Walker (2-17) took two early scalps to leave the visitors on 39-3. However, Bukhari (73) and Bilal Hussain (34) shared a 76-run fourth-wicket stand to boost Stourbridge's total. Jakeman (3-31) struck to break up the partnership before Niyarepola (4-54) trapped Seth Rogerson (2) LBW to take his first wicket of the match. And the pair ripped through Stourbridge's lower order to claim the remaining wickets while Niyarepola also trapped Bukhari LBW following a 93-ball knock. Leamington recovered from the early loss of Harrison Smith (13) in reply as Jacob Sargeant (24) and Jonathan Wigley (29) enjoyed a solid second-wicket stand. Both batters fell in quick succession and Jakeman (3) followed soon after to leave the home side on 84-4 at the end of the 21st over. Will Richardson (29 not out) and Chris Calcott (33) built up the home side's total before Niyarepola (22 not out) hit four boundaries in an entertaining 11-ball knock. Niyarepola smashed a six to secure victory for Leamington in 31.5 overs with four wickets to spare. Leamington are next in action Worfield on Saturday, July 18 with play to begin at 12pm(midday) at Davenport Park.

Dangerous driver jailed after fleeing country seven years ago following fatal crash

Tue, 14 Jul 2026 07:53:49 +0100

A DANGEROUS driver who fled the country after being involved in a fatal crash in south Warwickshire seven years ago has been jailed. Raul Fedeles was driving a Vauxhall Astra on the A46 near Snitterfield in April 2019 when he was involved in a crash that resulted in another man dying. Fedeles was charged with causing death by dangerous driving, but failed to turn up in court in the summer of 2020. Investigations found he had gone back to his home country of Romania. After completing an extradition process, he was brought back to the UK and remanded in custody to appear in court last month. He was found guilty after a five-day trial and appearing at Warwick Crown Court and was sentenced to six years and six months in jail. Det Segt Sam Bates said: “The consequences of dangerous driving can be catastrophic, as this case so tragically demonstrates. “Someone has lost their life because of the Fedeles’ actions, and countless others have been left to deal with the lasting impact of that loss. “While no sentence can undo the harm caused, the six-and-a-half-year prison term sends a clear message that dangerous driving will not be tolerated. “Our thoughts remain with the victim’s family and loved ones as they continue to come to terms with their loss.”

Family-friendly art trail to launch in Kenilworth

Tue, 14 Jul 2026 07:52:36 +0100

ART lovers in Kenilworth can track down some fine works over the summer with the launch of a new family-friendly trail around the town. Kenilworth Art Society is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year and is launching a specially-designed trail for people to follow. The works of art featured on the trail will be located in 26 different Kenilworth businesses, shops and organisations along Warwick Road and the High Street. At each location participants will see an artwork, a painting or drawing, together with information about each artist Some displays will be inside the businesses and others on their shop fronts. The trail also includes a child-friendly quiz which aims to get all the family involved. Copies of this quiz will be available at Kenilworth Library and The Creative Café on the High Street. Kenilworth Mayor Alison Insley will be on hand at the official opening at the town’s library on July 17 at 2.30pm. The trail officially starts on July 18 and runs through the school holidays. The Society is a friendly group of artists who meet regularly to share and learn about art and painting from each other. The group welcomes anyone who has an interest in pursuing art at any level. Meetings are held at the Waverley Day Centre on Tuesday evenings. The Society’s website gives further details about the group, along with some examples of individual artwork in the Gallery and Events sections. Visit kenilworthartsociety.weebly.com for further details.

New booking system for Warwickshire recycling centres

Tue, 14 Jul 2026 07:00:00 +0100

A NEW booking system is being introduced at Warwickshire recycling centres. Warwickshire County Council made the decision following a review of the recent ‘no booking’ trial implemented to assess the impact of removing booking and also to try to make it easier for residents to access their local recycling centre. The new approach, which comes into effect on Monday July 20, aims to reduce avoidable queuing at the busiest sites and times, while keeping access as flexible as possible for residents. Unlike the previous county-wide booking system, the new arrangements will be tailored by site and by day, so booking will only be required where needed to help manage demand. The trial revealed high demand and prolonged queues at certain sites during busy days and periods of good weather. Some sites experienced higher demand, queues, traffic impacts, full containers and temporary restrictions on some materials during busy periods. WCC’s waste management team is conducting an extensive analysis of the trial period. This includes a detailed review of visitor numbers, waste tonnages, recycling performance, and service issues. And the review is also heavily informed by a county-wide customer survey, which received over 2,400 responses from residents sharing their experiences and preferences. Of the 2,400 survey responses received, half supported some form of booking. The new tailored “hybrid” approach will see booking requirements vary depending on the specific location. Some sites will remain completely open without the need to book, others will require booking only on weekends and bank holidays, and one site will return to a full-time booking system. WCC environment spokesman Coun Darren Cheshire said: “We want to thank the 2,400 residents who took the time to share their feedback during the recent trial. We have listened closely to your views and looked hard at the data. What became clear is that a one-size-fits-all approach doesn’t work for our diverse county. “While many appreciated the spontaneity of no-booking, the resulting queues on sunny weekends at our busier sites caused frustration and service issues. This new hybrid system is a balanced, data-driven solution. “By keeping some sites open for unbooked visits and using booking to manage peak demand at busier locations, we can ensure a smoother, safer, and more efficient recycling experience for everyone in Warwickshire.” Click here for full details. New Booking Arrangements: Hunters Lane (Rugby) – booking required seven days a week Cherry Orchard (Kenilworth) – no booking required Princes Drive (Leamington) – booking required on Saturdays, Sundays, and Bank Holidays Burton Farm (Stratford) – no booking required Wellesbourne – booking required on Saturdays and Sundays Shipston – no booking required Stockton – booking required on Saturdays and Sundays

Challenge Real Players in Pusoy Dos Online on GZone

Mon, 13 Jul 2026 23:35:15 +0100

Pusoy Dos has always been one of those card games that looks simple at first, but once the round starts, it becomes a real battle of timing, patience, and strategy. It is not just about throwing down your strongest cards and hoping for the best. It is about knowing when to attack, when to hold back, and when to take control of the table. That is exactly why Pusoy Dos online on GZone feels so fun, competitive, and rewarding. GZone presents its digital version of Pusoy Dos as a modern adaptation of a beloved Filipino card game, built to preserve the classic experience while making it easier and more accessible for today’s players. The platform highlights authentic gameplay, online accessibility, and competitive match play that lets users enjoy Pusoy Dos anytime and anywhere. That combination is a big part of the appeal. You still get the familiar excitement of a traditional card game, but now it is faster to access, easier to play regularly, and more thrilling because you are up against real players.

What Makes Pusoy Dos Online So Engaging

It Is Easy to Learn but Hard to Master

One reason Pusoy Dos stays popular is because the objective is clear: be the first to discard all your cards. But while the goal is simple, the path to victory rarely is. Each match pushes you to make smart decisions based on your hand, your opponents’ actions, and the flow of the round. GZone explains that Pusoy Dos can be played by two to four players, with 13 cards dealt to each participant. From there, players compete by discarding cards or combinations according to the game’s ranking rules, with the goal of emptying their hand before everyone else. That structure gives the game real depth. You are not only reacting to the cards you have. You are also thinking ahead, setting traps, protecting strong combinations, and waiting for the perfect chance to take the lead.

Real Players Make Every Match Feel Alive

The online version becomes even more enjoyable because of the human element. Real players do not all think the same way. Some play aggressively from the start. Some stay quiet and strike late. Some try to pressure the table, while others patiently wait for mistakes. That unpredictability is what makes the experience more exciting. It turns every round into more than just a card game. It becomes a contest of instincts, reading skills, and confidence.

What Is the Highest Card in Pusoy Dos Online?

Understanding the Top Card Matters

If you want to play better, one of the first things you should know is the ranking system. In Pusoy Dos, the highest card is 2. GZone’s Pusoy Dos guide describes the card values from highest to lowest as 2, A, K, Q, J, 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3. It also notes that suits are ranked from highest to lowest as Diamonds, Hearts, Spades, and Clubs. That means a 2 is the most powerful single card rank in the game. And when suit ranking comes into play, the stronger suit can matter when comparing cards of the same value.

Why Knowing the Highest Card Helps

Understanding that 2 is the highest card is not just a fun fact. It can shape your whole strategy. If you hold a high-ranking 2, you may have a powerful tool for taking control late in the round. But if you use it too early, you may lose one of your best chances to finish strong. Here is why that matters:

High cards can help you seize momentum
Saving a 2 for the right moment can protect your endgame
Using your strongest card too early can leave you exposed
Knowing the ranking helps you judge risk more clearly

Good Pusoy Dos players do not just know the rankings. They know how to make those rankings work in their favor.

What Convenience Looks Like in Real Play

When people talk about convenience in Pusoy Dos online, they usually mean practical benefits like these:

Quick access to matches without organizing a physical group
Easier play sessions during breaks, free time, or evenings
No need to shuffle, deal manually, or manage table setup
A smoother way to enjoy repeated games for practice
More opportunities to challenge real opponents regularly

In short, online play makes the game feel more available. Instead of waiting for the right time to happen, you can create that moment much more easily.

Simple Tips for Enjoying Pusoy Dos Online More

Play Smarter, Not Just Faster

If you want to get more out of your matches, keep these habits in mind:

Learn the ranking system well, especially the power of 2
Do not waste your strongest cards too early
Watch how opponents react to pressure
Think about your exit strategy, not just your next move
Use online matches as a chance to sharpen your instincts

These simple adjustments can make a huge difference over time.

Final Thoughts

Pusoy Dos online on GZone works because it combines everything players already enjoy about the classic card game with the convenience and pace of digital play. You still get the strategy, the tension, and the satisfaction of outplaying an opponent, but now the experience is easier to access and more consistent for regular play. Just as importantly, understanding key details—like the fact that 2 is the highest card and that online play offers real convenience—can make your games more enjoyable and your decisions more confident. GZone positions its platform as a place where traditional Filipino card gameplay meets modern online competition, giving players a fun and flexible way to challenge real opponents. So if you want a card game that feels lively, skill-based, and easy to enjoy on your schedule, Pusoy Dos online on GZone is a strong choice.

FAQs

1. What is the highest card in Pusoy Dos Online?The highest card is 2, with suits ranked Diamonds, Hearts, Spades, and Clubs. 2. Why is Pusoy Dos Online convenient?You can play anytime, anywhere without needing a physical deck or gathering players. 3. Why are real-player matches more exciting?Real opponents use different strategies, making every match more competitive, unpredictable, and rewarding. Article Written by: Kristelle Panganiban

Creating Healthy Family Traditions Without Alcohol: Top Tips

Mon, 13 Jul 2026 23:24:36 +0100

Family traditions help shape some of our most treasured memories. Whether it's celebrating birthdays, enjoying Sunday lunches or gathering during festive seasons, these shared experiences strengthen relationships and create a sense of belonging. For many families, however, alcohol has traditionally played a central role in celebrations. Fortunately, attitudes are changing, and more families are discovering that meaningful traditions don't need to revolve around drinking. Creating alcohol-free family traditions can encourage stronger connections, promote healthier lifestyles and ensure that every family member, regardless of age, feels included. That’s so vitally important, especially in today’s day and age where alcohol problems are becoming more common. Visit any rehab centre in the UK and you’ll see people of all ages, all demographics with alcohol problems, and each and every one will have a family. So we need to look after each other. And even tweaking some family traditions to make them alcohol free can make a huge difference…

Focusing on Time Together

The most memorable family traditions are rarely about what's in your glass. Instead, they're built around spending quality time together. Whether it's a monthly games night, a family walk, a picnic in the park or an annual camping trip, shared experiences often become the moments people remember most. By making activities the focus rather than alcohol, families can create traditions that encourage conversation, laughter and genuine connection. These experiences often become even more valuable as children grow older and begin to appreciate the consistency and comfort that family rituals provide.

Creating New Celebration Rituals

Many celebrations automatically include champagne, wine or other alcoholic drinks. Replacing these with creative alternatives can make occasions feel just as special while ensuring everyone can take part. Mocktails, homemade lemonade, sparkling fruit juices and speciality alcohol-free drinks can all add a sense of occasion without the effects of alcohol. Families can even develop their own signature celebration drink to serve at birthdays, anniversaries or festive gatherings. Special meals, homemade desserts or favourite family recipes can also become traditions that people look forward to year after year.

Enjoying Outdoor Adventures

Spending time outdoors is an excellent way to build lasting family traditions. Regular walks in the countryside, beach days, cycling trips or seasonal activities such as pumpkin picking and woodland walks provide opportunities to connect while staying active. Outdoor traditions encourage healthy habits and help children develop an appreciation for nature. They also provide a welcome break from screens and busy daily routines, allowing families to spend uninterrupted time together. Simple activities often create the strongest memories, especially when they become regular family events.

Making Holidays More Meaningful

Festive periods can often involve significant alcohol consumption, but many families are choosing to place greater emphasis on togetherness instead. Baking festive treats, decorating the home, watching favourite films, volunteering in the community or playing board games can become cherished traditions that everyone enjoys. Children often remember these shared experiences far more vividly than adult-centred celebrations involving alcohol. By creating rituals that involve every generation, holidays become more inclusive and meaningful. These traditions also reduce the pressure some people may feel to drink simply because it's expected.

Encouraging Open Conversations

Alcohol-free family traditions can also help create an environment where healthy choices are openly discussed. Children often learn behaviours by observing adults, and seeing family members celebrate without relying on alcohol sends a positive message about enjoying life responsibly. This doesn't mean alcohol must be completely absent from every occasion, but demonstrating that celebrations can be fun without it helps normalise balance and moderation. Open conversations about wellbeing, healthy habits and making informed choices become easier when families lead by example.

Supporting Physical and Mental Wellbeing

Choosing activities that promote health benefits everyone in the family. Cooking meals together, taking part in charity walks, visiting local attractions or trying new sports all encourage physical activity while strengthening family bonds. Alcohol-free gatherings can also contribute to better sleep, improved energy and more positive moods, particularly during busy holiday periods. Instead of recovering from late nights or excessive drinking, families are better able to enjoy their time together and make the most of special occasions. Healthy traditions often have benefits that extend well beyond the event itself.

Building Memories That Last

The beauty of family traditions lies in their ability to create lasting memories across generations. Whether it's an annual holiday, a favourite recipe passed down through the family or a weekly activity everyone enjoys, these moments help strengthen relationships and create a sense of continuity. By removing the focus from alcohol, families can place greater emphasis on what truly matters: spending time together, supporting one another and celebrating life's milestones in meaningful ways. Article written by Christos Christophorou

Widdecombe killing now treated as terrorism as specialist officers take charge - NATIONAL NEWS

Mon, 13 Jul 2026 17:38:37 +0100

Counter-terrorism detectives have taken over the investigation into the death of Ann Widdecombe after new evidence emerged, police announced on Monday.

Ann Widdecombe, 78, the former Conservative minister who went on to become a spokeswoman for Reform UK, was found dead at her isolated home in Haytor, on Dartmoor, on Thursday July 9.

Detectives now believe she was attacked roughly a day earlier, at around 12.30pm on Wednesday July 8, after she failed to join a scheduled Zoom appearance on Channel 5 and could not be reached by the production team who had last heard from her shortly after midday. A 28-year-old man, described by officers as a white British national, was arrested in Rotherham, South Yorkshire, on Saturday evening on suspicion of murder. He remains in custody and has since been re-arrested on suspicion of the commission, preparation or instigation of acts of terrorism, Counter Terrorism Policing South East (CTPSE) confirmed. A separate 26-year-old man arrested in the initial hours of the inquiry was released without charge on Saturday and is no longer part of the investigation. Announcing the shift, Laurence Taylor, head of National Counter Terrorism Policing, said fresh information and evidence gathered during what he called a fast-moving and complex inquiry meant CTPSE was now leading the case, working alongside Devon and Cornwall Police’s Major Crime Investigation Team. He said detectives were pursuing several lines of enquiry to determine the motive behind the attack. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood confirmed the development on social media on Monday morning, saying she had spoken with the head of counter-terrorism policing and that her thoughts remained with Widdecombe’s family and friends. She told MPs that the suspect was not known to Prevent, the government’s counter-extremism referral programme, and said she would update the Commons further that afternoon. Mahmood also offered to arrange a meeting between Nigel Farage and the chair of the Royal and VIP Executive Committee (Ravec), the Home Office body that oversees the security of public figures, and said she would examine what protective guidance could be extended to former MPs and party officials. Police had previously ruled out a political motive The reversal marks a striking change of direction for Devon and Cornwall Police, who spent the days after Widdecombe’s death repeatedly playing down any terrorist or political dimension to the killing. At a press conference on Sunday, Assistant Chief Constable Matt Longman told reporters there was “no information to suggest” a terrorism link and “nothing to suggest” the murder was politically motivated, adding that officers were not looking for anyone else in connection with the case. That position had put the force at odds with figures in Reform UK. Nigel Farage, the party’s leader, suggested in the days after the killing that it might have been premeditated, and party sources accused police of playing down the true nature of the attack. Richard Tice, Reform’s deputy leader, said on Monday that journalists who had dismissed the party’s concerns owed Farage and his colleagues an apology. Widdecombe’s remote farmhouse lies around 270 miles from the Rotherham address where the suspect was arrested. Footage obtained by The Sun reportedly showed a man leaving a property linked to the suspect at around 7am on the Wednesday she is thought to have died, with neighbours describing him loading a long wooden implement into a red car before driving away. A life in public service Widdecombe served as a Conservative MP from 1987 to 2010 and held ministerial office, including as prisons minister, under John Major. She later found a second career in broadcasting, becoming a household name through appearances on Strictly Come Dancing and Celebrity Big Brother, and as a frequent guest on programmes such as Jeremy Vine. She was elected to the European Parliament for the Brexit Party in 2019 and, after Britain left the EU, went on to serve as an immigration spokeswoman for the party’s successor, Reform UK. Tributes poured in from across the political spectrum following her death. Sir Keir Starmer called it a significant loss and urged people to set aside political differences, while Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch said she was stunned and struggled to find the words. Broadcasters including Piers Morgan and Iain Dale, and former Strictly partner Anton Du Beke, also paid tribute, with Du Beke describing her as a real friend. Her death has revived concerns about the safety of politicians in Britain, following the murders of Labour MP Jo Cox in 2016 and Conservative MP Sir David Amess in 2021. Jo Cox’s widower, Brendan Cox, wrote that the news had brought back painful memories, while stressing that nothing could justify such an attack. Counter-terrorism officers say the investigation remains active and fast-moving, and have asked the public not to speculate about the case on social media while enquiries continue.

Artist's visit inspired new exhibition at Compton Verney

Mon, 13 Jul 2026 17:00:00 +0100

AN EXHIBITION inspired by a visit to Compton Verney by painter and designer Enid Marx in the 1990s and the work she donated opens later this month. Marx visited Compton Verney when it was being transformed into an art gallery and she donated the English folk art she had built over decades with her lifelong partner, historian Margaret Lambert. More than 25 years later, that gift has inspired the first major exhibition dedicated to Marx, considered one of the country’s most influential yet overlooked designers. The Pattern of Life: Enid Marx and Modern British Design will explore the life and work of the artist behind London Underground’s iconic seat fabrics. The exhibition will follow Marx’s life through fabric and design, exploring her family influences, artistic education and professional career. The collection brings together loans from the Victoria and Albert Museum, the British Library and the Crafts Study Centre alongside objects already housed at Compton Verney. Senior curator Oli McCall said: “Enid Marx visited Compton Verney in 1998, when the mansion house was still undergoing its transformation into an art gallery, and was inspired to donate the collection of ‘popular art’ she had lovingly assembled with historian Margaret Lambert to the organisation. “Since then, this treasure-trove of objects with which Marx and Lambert lived, and which inspired Marx’s design work in many ways, has delighted audiences here, making Compton Verney the perfect venue for this groundbreaking exhibition. “Underpinned by years of research by Dr Az Crawford into Marx’s life and work, this show will give visitors an unparalleled insight into the work of one of the most significant designers in modern British history, tracing her professional development from her earliest influences and education at the Royal College of Art – where her cohort was heralded as ‘an outbreak of talent’ – through communities of influential craftswomen with whom she socialised and collaborated to the major commissions she achieved in the post-war years from London Transport, which resulted in her iconic designs for seating fabric for London Underground trains.” Born in London to an entrepreneurial Jewish family, Marx studied at the Central School of Arts and Crafts and the Royal College of Art between 1922 and 1925. She died in May 1998, aged 95. Dr Az Crawford, lead curator of The Pattern of Life: Enid Marx and Modern British Design, added: “Marx has long been overlooked for her role as a major British modernist. This exhibition offers a timely redress of the significance of her textiles beyond the surface, showing how pattern design configured and reflects personal, social and cultural politics of the first quarter of the twentieth century.” The exhibition runs from July 18 to January 3 2027.

CRICKET - Warwickshire Bears end T20 Blast campaign with Northants victory

Mon, 13 Jul 2026 15:00:42 +0100

KAI Smith's unbeaten half-century ensured Warwickshire Bears ended their T20 Blast campaign on a winning note with victory against Northamptonshire Steelbacks.

The Bears missed out on a quarter-final spot but avoided propping up the group with a five-wicket win against table toppers Northants at the County Ground.

Northants posted 153 all out from their 20 overs as the Bears reached the required total with 10 balls left and five wickets in hand. Warwickshire end their Central and West group campaign in fourth place, ahead of Glamorgan and Worcestershire Rapids on net run rate with six wins from 12 matches. Northants had already secured top spot and a home quarter-final before facing the Bears as the home side won the toss and elected to bat. However, Richard Gleeson (2-31) removed Northants opener Ricardo Vasconcelos (2) in the second over of the match. And Beau Webster (3-30) struck to remove Chris Lynn (19) before Chris Woakes (1-24) accounted for Nathan McSweeney (13). Dan Mousley (1-20) claimed the scalp of Northants captain David Willey (9) to leave the Steelbacks in trouble on 52-4. Saif Zaib (37) and Louis Kimber (17) looked to rebuild the innings before Tazeem Ali (1-19) struck to break up the partnership. Webster returned to quickly remove Lewis McManus (5) and trapped Calvin Harrison (0) LBW with the very next ball as Northants slumped to 95-7. Tail order batter Luke Proctor (33 not out) frustrated the Bears attack in a 25-ball knock while Ben Sanderson (14) also added useful runs. However, after Gleeson accounted for Zaib, Jordan Thompson (2-28) bowled Sanderson and George Scrimshaw (1) to bring an end to the innings.

The Bears struggled with the bat early on in reply as opener Zen Malik (2) fell cheaply to the bowling of Sanderson (1-23).

Fellow opener Vansh Jani (26) hit three fours and two sixes in an entertaining 12-ball knock before Scrimshaw (3-36) claimed his first scalp. And the Bears lost three wickets in as many overs soon after as Webster (3), Mousley (1) and Hamza Shaikh (2) all departed for single figure scores. This left Warwickshire in trouble on 49-5 at the end of the seventh over as Scrimshaw took two further wickets and Proctor (1-25) also struck. However, Sam Hain (48 not out) and Smith (65 not out) combined for a 105-run sixth-wicket stand in a match-winning partnership. Smith hit 10 fours and one six en route to a half-century with support from Hain as the pair guided the Bears to a five-wicket win in the penultimate over of the match.

FOOTBALL - Racing Club Warwick make winning start to pre-season at Pershore Town

Mon, 13 Jul 2026 12:00:22 +0100

RACING Club Warwick made a winning start to pre-season with an entertaining 3-2 victory against Pershore Town.

The Racers enjoyed the perfect start to their pre-season preparations as Hisham Chiha, Archie Hamp and a trialist all found the net for the Racers at the Community Stadium.

Warwick led though Chiha's goal on 21 minutes only for the Plums to equalise seven minutes before half time from the penalty spot. The Racers reclaimed the lead when a trialist found the net just two minutes after the interval. And Hamp put Warwick two goals ahead on 77 minutes as Pershore grabbed what proved a late consolation goal three minutes from time.

Myton Hospices GP Information Clinics highly commended at national awards

Mon, 13 Jul 2026 12:00:00 +0100

THE MYTON Hospices’ GP Information Clinics have been highly commended at a national awards ceremony. The charity was shortlisted as a finalist in two categories at the national Palliative and End of Life Care Awards – The Partnership Working Across Health & Social Care Award and The Innovation in End-of-Life Social Care Award. Both categories recognise Myton’s GP Information Clinics, which are designed to ensure people with life-limiting illnesses are connected with the right support earlier in their illness. Working in partnership with Primary Care Networks, they help streamline referral pathways, build a better understanding of hospice care, and support patients and their carers to feel more confident in accessing available support from the point of diagnosis. Importantly, the clinics also strengthen relationships with GP practices, ensuring more healthcare professionals understand the full range of services Myton offers. Myton was highly commended in the Innovation and End-of-Life Social Care category. The awards ceremony, held in London and hosted by TV presenter Kate Garraway, celebrated excellence and innovation in palliative and end of life care from across the UK. Myton nurse Olivia Bowskill said: “We are incredibly proud to receive this recognition. Our GP Information Clinics were created to help people access information and support earlier, in a setting where they already feel comfortable and supported. “We know that many people are unsure about what hospice care involves, and these clinics give us the opportunity to have those conversations sooner, answer questions and help people understand the support available to them. “This award reflects the dedication of our teams and the fantastic collaboration with our GP partners, helping more people and their families access specialist palliative care when they need it most. We’re excited to continue developing this approach to reach even more people across our communities.”

Men urged to step into the spotlight for Strictly Christmas 2026

Mon, 13 Jul 2026 11:26:13 +0100

Applications have opened for this year’s Strictly Christmas fundraising spectacular, with organisers appealing for more local men to sign up for the dance floor challenge.

Strictly Christmas 2026, held in aid of Zoe’s Place Baby Hospice Coventry, is inviting people from across Coventry and Warwickshire to take part in one of the region’s best-known fundraising events.

Contestants do not need any dance experience. Complete beginners are given training in two choreographed routines by qualified instructors ahead of performing in front of live audiences at a gala weekend in December. This year, organisers say they are particularly keen to boost the number of male contestants taking part. Money raised through the event goes towards Zoe’s Place Baby Hospice Coventry, which provides specialist care for babies and young children with life-limiting, life-threatening and complex conditions, as well as support for their families. James Sanders, show director for Strictly Christmas 2026, said:

“Strictly Christmas is so much more than a dance competition – it’s an incredible journey that brings people together, builds confidence, creates lifelong friendships and, most importantly, raises vital funds for an amazing local charity. “We’re especially keen to hear from more men this year. Whether you’re normally a ‘dad dancer’, have two left feet or simply someone looking for an exciting new challenge, we’d love you to take part. You don’t need any dance experience – just a great attitude and a desire to make a real difference.”

Those who take part receive full dance training and fundraising support throughout, before performing in front of family, friends and supporters at the Strictly Christmas shows. Past contestants have described the experience as life-changing, combining fitness, fun and friendship while raising money for a local cause. Applications are open now via forms.office.com/r/ATnT5trhZj, or by searching “Strictly Christmas 2026” on social media. Anyone wishing to take part, or businesses interested in sponsorship, can find out more by emailing zoesstrictlyxmas@gmail.com.

Health trust celebrates more than 3,000 years of care, compassion and commitment

Mon, 13 Jul 2026 11:07:38 +0100

THE DEDICATION of 117 colleagues who together have given more than 3,180 years of service has been celebrated by Coventry and Warwickshire Partnership NHS Trust (CWPT) has celebrated the extraordinary The trust’s annual Long Service Awards ceremony recognised staff who have dedicated decades of their careers to improving the lives of others. CWPT chief executive Mary Mumvuri said: “The Long Service Awards are one of my favourite events of the year because they celebrate the people who are at the very heart of our NHS. Having worked in the NHS for over 30 years myself, I know how much things have changed over that time, and I also know how those experiences shape us and shape what we do. “What has never changed is the reason we come to work every day – to care for people, support our communities and make a positive difference in someone’s life. That shared purpose is what connects every generation of NHS staff, whether you’ve worked here for five years or forty. “Every colleague we recognised has helped shape our trust through periods of change, challenge and innovation, always keeping patients at the centre of what they do. Their dedication, compassion and professionalism are something we should all be incredibly proud of, and it was a privilege to celebrate and thank them for everything they have contributed.” Among those recognised were Sheri Ashton, head of service for Talking Therapies, celebrating 35 years of NHS service, and Carol Watson, who has dedicated more than 40 years to supporting patients and colleagues. Sheri began her career as a student mental health nurse in 1990 and has held a wide variety of clinical and leadership roles across mental health services before becoming head of service for Talking Therapies. Sheri said: “My career has been varied and full of opportunities, which is what has kept me working within the NHS for so many years. I’m proud to work alongside teams who care deeply about the people they support and about each other.” Carol joined the NHS straight from college at the age of 19 and has spent more than four decades supporting clinical teams across Coventry and Warwickshire, including 25 years as a medical secretary with the psychotherapy team. Carol said: “I found my perfect fit and the team became my second family, supporting each other through good times and difficult ones. I’ve met wonderful people, learned so much and discovered I’m more resilient than I ever realised. I’ve always tried my hardest in every role and hope I’ve played a small part in helping NHS services run as well as they could.” Raj Auchoybur was also honoured for 50 years service to the NHS.

Mahmood To Announce Legal Fix To Deport Grooming Gang Ringleader - NATIONAL NEWS

Mon, 13 Jul 2026 10:53:51 +0100

Home Secretary set to unveil plan to close 1971 loophole shielding Shabir Ahmed from removal, as Pakistan signals it will not take him back.

Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood is set out on Monday the legal steps the government will take to try to deport Shabir Ahmed, the ringleader of the Rochdale grooming gang, following his release from prison earlier this month.

Ahmed, now 73, was jailed for 22 years in 2012 after being convicted of 30 offences including rape and other child sexual offences against girls as young as 12 or 13. He was released on licence after serving roughly 14 years, fitted with a GPS tag, placed under an exclusion zone covering Rochdale, and housed in 24-hour staffed accommodation. Although Ahmed was stripped of his British citizenship following his conviction, he cannot currently be deported to Pakistan because of Section 7 of the Immigration Act 1971, which protects Commonwealth citizens who arrived in the UK before 1973 and had lived here for at least five years. Mahmood is expected to announce that officials believe they have found a way to close this loophole without affecting the immigration status of other long-standing Commonwealth residents, including Windrush-generation migrants. The announcement is timed to coincide with the second reading of the government’s Immigration and Asylum Bill. It remains unclear whether the change will be introduced as emergency legislation or as a government amendment to the existing Bill; a government source has previously suggested changing the law could take up to a year, though ministers have said they have not ruled out a faster route. Pakistan resistance Even if the UK changes its domestic law, Ahmed’s removal is not guaranteed. Pakistan has so far declined to accept him, arguing he had already renounced his Pakistani citizenship and objecting to what Pakistani officials have characterised as a “colonial mindset” in Britain’s approach. Dr Farzana Shaikh of Chatham House has said back-channel negotiations between the two governments are “fraught,” and pointed to reports that Pakistan is separately seeking the extradition of two political dissidents living in the UK — a former cabinet minister under ex-Prime Minister Imran Khan, and a retired army major — as part of the wider diplomatic picture. Options reportedly under consideration if Pakistan continues to refuse include visa restrictions on Pakistani nationals and reductions to the roughly £50 million in annual UK foreign aid to Pakistan. Who pushed the government to act? Both the Conservatives and Reform UK have pressed the government on the case, and each has laid claim to having forced Labour’s hand — though the government itself has framed the move as its own initiative, with the Prime Minister asking Mahmood to review the case after Ahmed’s release triggered public anger. The Conservatives were the first major party to table a concrete legislative proposal. Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp drafted an amendment to close the Section 7 loophole and pushed for it to be adopted into the Immigration and Asylum Bill, arguing that emergency legislation was needed so the change could take effect within weeks rather than the year some in government had suggested. Following news of Mahmood’s planned announcement, Philp said the Conservatives had “led the calls” for Ahmed’s deportation and accused Labour of adopting a plan the Tories had proposed “days ago,” calling on the government to move via emergency legislation. Philp has also called for visa and aid restrictions on Pakistan if it continues to refuse to take Ahmed back, a position he has said should apply to any country that will not accept its own nationals. Reform UK, led by Nigel Farage, has also campaigned publicly on the case, with Farage stating that Reform would repeal Section 7 of the 1971 Act if in government and calling for a suspension of visas for Pakistani nationals if Islamabad refuses to take Ahmed back. Farage has framed the case as an early test for Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham, who has separately urged the government to exhaust every legal avenue to secure Ahmed’s deportation. Government figures have not credited either opposition party directly. Victims Minister Catherine Atkinson said Mahmood has a “strong track record” on removals, pointing to cases involving Angola, Namibia and the Democratic Republic of Congo where visa-sanction threats secured the return of foreign offenders, and said the government had “not ruled anything out” on the legislative route. A Downing Street spokesperson said this week that “every available option” was being explored, including direct talks with Pakistani authorities. In the Commons, MPs from across the political spectrum — including Labour’s Graham Stringer and Jim McMahon, the MP for Oldham — have called for the loophole to be closed, suggesting the pressure has come from a broad cross-party reaction to Ahmed’s release rather than from any single party alone. What happens next Mahmood’s statement on Monday is expected to set out the domestic legal mechanism the government intends to use. Even so, officials have acknowledged that securing Ahmed’s actual removal will depend on further negotiation with Pakistan, which has given no indication it intends to change its position.

Woman in her 80s seriously injured after being hit by a car in Kenilworth

Mon, 13 Jul 2026 09:54:34 +0100

A WOMAN in her 80s was seriously injured after being hit by a car in Kenilworth. She was walking along Warwick Road near to the junction of Waverley Road when she was hit by the driver of a red/orange Citroen C1. She suffered serious injuries to her leg and foot, but these are not believed to be life-threatening. The road was closed but re-opened shortly afterwards. Anyone who saw what happened or has mobile phone/dashcam footage should contact Warwickshire Police quoting incident number 131 of 7 July.

FOOTBALL - Leamington hold strong Walsall side to goalless draw in pre-season

Mon, 13 Jul 2026 09:00:15 +0100

LEAMINGTON held League Two side Walsall to a goalless draw in the club's latest pre-season outing.

The Brakes welcomed a strong Saddlers side to the Your Co-op Community Stadium.

Walsall's squad featured veteran winger Albert Adomah along with summer signings Jed Ward, Sven Sprangler, Lewis Simper and Andrew Dallas. Playing at home for the first time in pre-season, Brakes boss Scott Easterlow named eight trialists in the Leamington squad. Adomah went close early on as he forced Leamington's trialist goalkeeper into a save when through on goal. The former Aston Villa and Middlesbrough man then saw a free-kick deflect off the wall and loop over the crossbar. And Archie Bunn then flashed a shot inches past the post from the edge of the penalty area as the visitors remained on top. Walsall striker Dallas had a goal ruled out five minutes before half time while the Saddlers used an entirely different XI in the second half. Leamington threatened the Walsall goal after the break as Kyle Belmonte fired an effort from distance straight at the goalkeeper. Substitute goalkeeper Jacob Humphries denied Walsall's Courtney Clarke late on as the game ended in a stalemate.

Mansion Tax, Landlord Levy, Inheritance Charge: The Tax Changes Burnham Is Weighing Up - NATIONAL NEWS

Mon, 13 Jul 2026 08:47:44 +0100

Analysis suggests wealthier residents and landlords could face higher bills under incoming prime minister.

Andy Burnham is expected to be confirmed as Labour leader this Friday and will formally become prime minister on July 20, taking over from Sir Keir Starmer.

As he prepares for his first Budget, attention is turning to what tax changes his government might introduce, and how they could affect households in the region. Background Burnham secured the Labour leadership after winning the Makerfield by-election last month, which made him eligible to stand following Starmer’s resignation announcement on June 22. He has been backed by the large majority of Labour MPs and is set to take office unopposed. Burnham has not yet published a detailed set of tax proposals, saying he intends to stay within Labour’s existing fiscal rules, which require government debt to fall as a proportion of the economy over time. However, he has spoken openly about several policy areas under consideration. What’s Being Discussed Among the ideas Burnham has floated or declined to rule out: Capital gains tax — He has said he would want to examine aligning capital gains tax more closely with income tax rates. Top rate of income tax — He has indicated support for a 50 per cent top rate for the highest earners. Property taxes — He is reportedly considering lowering the threshold for a proposed “mansion tax” on higher-value homes from £2m to £1.5m, which would draw more properties into higher council tax bands, particularly in London and the South East. Landlord income — A possible levy applying National Insurance to rental income has also been discussed. The Institute for Public Policy Research estimates this could raise around £3bn a year nationally, though some economists have warned it may reduce the supply of rental properties and push up rents for tenants. Estates and inheritance — Proposals for a “care levy” of up to 10 per cent on estates after death have also been raised as a way of funding social care reform. A think tank aligned with Burnham, Mainstream, has estimated a similar rental income measure could raise up to £14bn, while cautioning it might prompt some wealthier taxpayers to move their assets or residency abroad. Political Reaction Opposition parties have seized on the uncertainty. Reform UK published its own analysis at the weekend estimating that, combined with tax rises already introduced by Chancellor Rachel Reeves, including changes to employer National Insurance contributions, VAT on private school fees and frozen income tax thresholds, total tax increases under Labour since 2024 could exceed £100bn a year if Burnham proceeds with the policies under discussion. The party’s economy spokesman, Robert Jenrick, has called on Burnham to rule out ten specific measures by name. Supporters of Burnham argue the figures are speculative, pointing out that no formal Budget proposals have been announced and that many of the ideas being discussed are options rather than commitments. Economic Context Lord O’Neill, a former Goldman Sachs chief economist now advising Burnham, sought to calm concerns over the weekend, telling the Rest Is Money podcast that the incoming government would not impose punishing tax rises on the public. He also called for the pensions triple lock to be reconsidered, arguing it placed an unfair burden on younger people already struggling with housing costs. The UK’s overall tax burden is currently at a record high, and the Treasury spends roughly a tenth of total public expenditure on debt interest. What Happens Next Burnham is also weighing who to appoint as chancellor, with Energy Secretary Ed Miliband reportedly under consideration alongside more centrist figures such as Wes Streeting and Shabana Mahmood. His choice, along with the contents of his first Budget, is likely to give the clearest indication yet of which of these proposals, if any, will move forward. Residents concerned about how any changes might affect property values, rental costs or estate planning are advised to keep an eye on further announcements as Burnham’s government takes shape over the coming weeks.

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Thousands in their 50s urged to send back bowel cancer test kits as 100 cases a week are caught by screening

Mon, 13 Jul 2026 08:17:00 +0100

Health officials are appealing to people in their 50s to complete and return NHS bowel cancer screening kits, after figures revealed this age group is far less likely to take part than older adults.

Just 56.2 per cent of 54-year-olds completed their screening test last year, compared with 73.5 per cent of those aged 70 to 74, according to the latest annual figures from the NHS Bowel Cancer Screening Programme.

Nearly 5.2 million people took part in screening over the year, almost half a million more than the year before, as the programme’s roll-out to younger age groups was completed. On average, the tests uncovered around 100 cancers every week. How the test works Everyone aged 50 to 74 in England is sent a free home test kit, called a faecal immunochemical test (FIT), once every two years. It involves taking a small stool sample using a stick and bottle provided in the post, then returning it to the NHS to be checked for traces of blood, a potential early warning sign of bowel cancer. ‘I had no symptoms at all’ Joanne, who was 54 when her kit arrived after the screening age was lowered, left it unused in her bathroom for several weeks before finally completing it. The results showed she needed further investigation, which led to a diagnosis of bowel cancer. Because it was caught early, Joanne was able to have surgery in July 2024 and avoided needing chemotherapy or radiotherapy. She is now encouraging friends and family who have put off their own kits to act. She said she had shown no symptoms whatsoever before being tested, and was shocked by the result. She said she was thankful she had gone ahead with the kit, adding that she did not want to think about what might have happened otherwise, and wants others her age to complete theirs too. Doctors urge people not to delay Professor Peter Johnson, the NHS’s National Clinical Director for Cancer, said the health service was concerned by low return rates among people in their 50s despite busy lives. He noted, with a nod to the cultural touchstones of that generation, that anyone old enough to remember Kylie Minogue and Jason Donovan’s wedding on Neighbours was likely to be in the target age bracket. He stressed that bowel cancer can develop silently, without symptoms, but that catching it early saves lives, urging people not to leave their kit on a shelf, but to complete it and post it back. Screening expansion and wider trends The NHS now sends out around 8.7 million home-testing kits a year. Almost a million more people were invited to take part in 2024-25 than the year before, as the expansion of screening to younger age groups was finished. Overall uptake across all eligible ages was 65.2 per cent, a slight fall from 67.6 per cent the previous year, driven largely by lower participation among younger invitees. Among those aged 60 to 74, however, uptake rose to 72.9 per cent, up from 71.8 per cent and the highest level recorded since records began in 2014. This year marks 20 years since the screening programme was first launched, in 2006. The NHS stresses that screening is intended for people without symptoms, and anyone concerned about possible signs of bowel cancer should contact their GP straight away rather than waiting for their next scheduled test. Charity and government reaction Genevieve Edwards, chief executive of Bowel Cancer UK, said people newly receiving a kit in their 50s should see every completed test as a chance to catch cancer early, or prevent it altogether, and urged people not to delay, noting the test takes only a few minutes at home. Public Health and Prevention Minister Sharon Hodgson said the expansion of the programme to people in their early 50s meant more cancers could now be caught earlier, when treatment tends to be most effective, and described the test as a quick, simple step that can be done from home. The government’s National Cancer Plan for England, published earlier this year, has set a target of delivering 17,000 earlier cancer diagnoses by 2035, with home-testing kits expected to help save almost 6,000 lives.

South Warwickshire Local Plan set to be delayed for public consultation

Mon, 13 Jul 2026 07:00:00 +0100

THE SOUTH Warwickshire Local Plan is set to be delayed for a public consultation. The revised draft plan to build almost 55,000 new houses across Stratford, Warwick, Leamington, Kenilworth, Southam and the surrounding areas was discussed by Warwick and Stratford District Councils at a meeting back in May. The plan has been drawn up by the two councils following government requirements to deliver a significant amount of new development during the period between 2025 and 2050. Listed sites in the plan for Warwick district include the large 4,000-home development on a 269-hectare ‘King’s Hill’ site between Kenilworth and Coventry, the 4,000 ‘new town’ near Hatton, 1,784 houses on two pockets of land in North Leamington, 1,550 on land near Europa Way, 916 houses near Lillington, 493 to the west of Warwick and 558 on the outskirts of Bishop’s Tachbrook. In Stratford district, the sites and number of houses include 3,086 on land to the west of Southam, 1,331 on land north of Wellesbourne, and a new settlement of 4,500 homes at Long Marston Airfield. The South Warwickshire Local Plan needs to be submitted to government by December 31. But there were concerns the plan could not be submitted in its current form. A number of councillors and residents gave impassioned speeches against it. Coun Daren Pemberton advised councils forget the December deadline as there was a significant amount of homework that still needed to be done before this plan would “pass muster” with the planning inspector. Public concerns included the fact the Stratford relief road – a crucial part of making more housing development in the area viable – had not yet been granted planning permission, poor transport connectivity at Long Marston, and the loss of the rural landscape which shapes the identity of the area.
Councillors recommended to delay publishing the draft local plan so further work can be undertaken in several key areas to make it more viable. This includes removing some of the sites in Warwick district, totalling between 1500 and 2000 homes, adding the expected number of non-local plan sites to the plan and increasing the housing density on these sites wherever possible, to reword the plan to ensure developers contribute fully to the movement of people through active travel, and to make changes to incorporate more affordable housing and to meet Biodiversity Net Gain targets. They also recommended the plan be put out for a six-week long public consultation. Both councils will now consider this recommendation at a Joint Cabinet Meeting tomorrow (Tuesday).

Lionhearts! England Battle Past Brave Norway to Reach World Cup Semi-Finals — Now Argentina Stand Between Us and Glory - NATIONAL NEWS

Sun, 12 Jul 2026 11:08:25 +0100

England are one step closer to footballing immortality.

In a night of raw courage, gritted teeth and a captain’s inspiration, Thomas Tuchel’s Three Lions fought back from behind to beat Norway 2-1 after extra-time in Miami, booking a place in the World Cup semi-finals for the first time since 2018, and setting up a titanic showdown with defending champions Argentina in Atlanta on Wednesday.

It was not pretty. It was not comfortable. But it was grit, it was heart, and it was, in the truest sense, English. A Nation Holds Its Breath Andreas Schjelderup gave Norway the lead in the searing Florida heat, silencing the travelling army of English supporters at Hard Rock Stadium and threatening to end our dream on the brink of history. But this England side, forged under Tuchel’s steel, do not know how to lie down. Enter Jude Bellingham. Just as he did against Mexico in the last 16, the Real Madrid superstar produced a moment of magic on the stroke of half-time to drag England level, sending the ground into raptures and reminding the watching world exactly why he is fast becoming this nation’s greatest footballing son. The drama did not end there. Norway thought they had snatched a dramatic lead when Torbjørn Heggem turned the ball home, only for VAR to intervene and rightly chalk off the goal after Erling Haaland, Norway’s talisman and a man born on these shores, was penalised for a push on England’s Elliot Anderson in the build-up. It was the kind of moment that could have broken lesser sides. England held firm. With the match locked at 1-1 after a punishing 90 minutes in brutal heat and humidity, it went to extra-time, and it was Bellingham, inevitably, who delivered the killer blow. Pouncing on a spill from Norwegian goalkeeper Ørjan Nyland after a driving effort from substitute Morgan Rogers, Bellingham smashed home the winner just three minutes into the additional period to send the Three Lions through, 2-1. England survived a nervy VAR review of their own moments later, when a penalty award for a foul on Djed Spence was overturned, but by then Norway’s spirit, and their remarkable run as first-time World Cup quarter-finalists, had been broken. Tuchel’s Brutal Honesty, Bellingham’s Fire True to form, Thomas Tuchel refused to sugar-coat matters after the final whistle, admitting his side had been “lucky” to progress and branding the performance “sloppy,” with too many technical mistakes. It was a verdict that did not sit well with the hero of the hour. Bellingham hit back at his manager in typically fearless fashion, pointing to the gruelling conditions and the calibre of the opposition England had just overcome.

“Maybe he doesn’t know what it’s like to play in those kind of conditions against Erling Haaland, Odegaard, Nusa, Sorloth,” Bellingham said. “That’s not an easy team to play against. You’re not going to win every game popping the ball and making a thousand passes. Sometimes you have to win dirty, and we’ve done that again tonight.”

It is exactly the kind of defiant, never-say-die spirit that has carried England through this tournament, and precisely the character English football has been crying out for. The Nation Celebrates The victory sparked celebration at the very top of British public life. The Prince of Wales declared the result was “never in doubt,” while Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer could not resist a cheeky dig at his Norwegian counterpart, joking on social media that Norway had “took one hell of a beating”, a message that will have been read with good humour, if gritted teeth, in Oslo. Argentina Await in Atlanta England’s reward is a mouth-watering semi-final against Lionel Messi’s Argentina, who booked their own place in the last four with a dramatic 3-1 extra-time victory over ten-man Switzerland. Julián Álvarez’s stunning strike from distance and a late Lautaro Martínez finish sealed the win for the defending champions after Switzerland had been reduced to ten men following Breel Embolo’s second-half sending-off. It promises to be a colossal test. Argentina remain the team to beat at this tournament, built around the irrepressible Messi, and will arrive in Atlanta full of belief after seeing off Cape Verde, Egypt and now Switzerland in a run littered with late drama of their own. But England have shown throughout this World Cup, against Mexico, and now against Norway, that this is a side with an unbreakable spirit, and in Bellingham and Harry Kane they possess two players in irresistible form, each with six goals in the tournament so far. Sixty years of hurt have never felt closer to an end. England now stand just two victories away from a first World Cup final since that famous day at Wembley in 1966. How to Watch England’s semi-final against Argentina kicks off at Atlanta Stadium on Wednesday, 15 July at 20:00 BST, live on BBC One and BBC iPlayer. Come on England.

Radical re-imagining of Othello heading to RSC stage

Sun, 12 Jul 2026 08:00:00 +0100

OLIVER Award-winning actress Sharon D Clarke will play Othello in a reimagining of Shakespeare’s tragedy at the RSC in Stratford. Marking her RSC debut, Clarke takes up the titular role in the Bard’s tale of shattered passion, revenge and psychological warfare, playing in the Swan Theatre from February 13 to April 3. Set in a climate-threatened future in which a black lesbian holds a seat of power, it promises a movement and music-infused production, directed by Monique Touko. It re-imagines Shakespeare’s 400-year-old story through the lens of misogynoir – a combination of anti-Black racism and misogyny directed at Black women – as an unsanctioned marriage perilously crosses boundaries of race, sex and status, allowing jealousy, suspicion and malign intent to close in. The new season will also see Rufus Norris direct the world premiere of Brock’s Mill by RSC Writer-in-Residence Stewart Pringle, running at The Other Place from March 26 to May 8. The family drama follows the story of Bernard, who – 40 years on from the heyday of his professional career as a stop-motion animator for Bluebell Studios – finds himself confronted with the reality of a past far removed from what he imagined. A homage to the craft of stop-motion film making and an exploration of the corrosive power of nostalgia, with animation by award-winning stop-motion animator Astrid Goldsmith, Brock’s Mill investigates the ownership of memory and the importance of being present in one’s own life. And another world premiwer will see a production of the The Bear and the Piano, based on David Litchfield’s beloved book, brought to The Other Place stage from December 11 to January 10. It tells the heart-warming story in which a bear’s chance encounter with a piano deep in the forest takes him on an incredible journey to the big city to share his musical gifts with the world. The co-production with Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre, suitable for ages three and over, is brought to life through a wordless fusion of puppetry and music. Visit rsc.org.uk for full details.

Govt warns don't drink and drive ahead of Englands World Cup clash

Sat, 11 Jul 2026 16:16:00 +0100

FOOTBALL fans are reminded not to drink and drive this summer, as THINK! is launching a new summer campaign designed to encourage drivers to choose alcohol-free alternatives when planning to drive.

The Minister for Local Transport Lilian Greenwood, also warns of the dangers of drink driving during the World Cup.

The government is taking action to tackle drink driving, through the Road Safety Strategy, which has consulted on lowering drink-driving limits. The government has received a substantial number of responses and are considering these thoroughly before announcing next steps. We will publish a summary of responses and the government response in due course.

Lilian Greenwood, Local Transport Minister, said: “Drink-driving ruins lives, and even small amounts of alcohol can impair judgement and increase the risk of a serious collision. Choosing to drive completely alcohol-free is the safest option for everyone on our roads. “This THINK! campaign is a smart and timely way to reach drivers during the World Cup, using trusted media, creators and partners to remind people of the zero per cent options available before they decide to drink. “Our new Road Safety Strategy, the first in over a decade, will save lives by tackling the root causes of deaths on our roads. “We have set an ambitious target to reduce deaths and serious injuries by 65 per cent by 2035 and have consulted on multiple new measures, including a lower drink‑drive limit and a minimum learning period.”

England football star donates shirt and boots to The Myton Hospices

Sat, 11 Jul 2026 16:04:00 +0100

ENGLAND Lioness and professional footballer Jess Carter has donated a pair of signed football boots and an England shirt to The Myton Hospices, in recognition of the care and support her dad is receiving. Jess visited Coventry Myton Hospice alongside her dad, Chris, to help support the charity’s vital work caring for people living with life-limiting illnesses, and their families, across Coventry and Warwickshire. Chris has been supported by Myton since being referred to their Patient & Carer Wellbeing Service following a series of life-changing diagnoses. A week before Christmas in 2023, Chris was diagnosed with Stage 4 myeloma, a form of blood cancer. Then, in early 2025, he received further diagnosis of Stage 5 chronic kidney disease and heart failure. During one of his chemotherapy sessions, a hospital nurse suggested The Myton Hospices as a source of additional support. Chris said: “I didn’t really have any expectations about Myton. I think a very common misconception about hospice care is that it’s just a place to die. But all I really knew was that I needed some support.” Since then, Chris has been receiving care through Myton’s Patient & Carer Wellbeing Service, including support from a Wellbeing Nurse, complementary therapy and counselling. Speaking about the impact Myton has had, Chris said: “Between my Wellbeing Nurse, Complementary Therapist and Counsellor, I have everything I need. They all support me in different ways, but they work hand in hand and the outcome is the same. It’s wonderful. “Without Myton, I’m not sure how I’d be coping with everything. Everyone I’ve come into contact with has been phenomenal. It takes a special kind of person to work at a hospice.” Chris also hopes sharing his story will help challenge common misconceptions about hospice care. He added: “People often think a hospice is just a place to die. But I feel quite alive when I come to Myton. Coming here has been one of the smartest things I’ve done, and it’s made a huge difference to me.” Barford-born Jess, who began playing football at just four years-old and who has won back-to-back European Championships with the Lionesses, wanted to give back to the charity supporting her dad. Chris said: “It’s been incredible to watch Jess’s football career develop. It’s taken us to places we’d never been before and given us experiences we’ll always treasure. I’m so proud of everything she’s achieved.” The hospice has not yet decided what to do with the shirt and boots, but auctioning them is a possibility. Jason Levy, director of income generation and supporter development at The Myton Hospices, said: “We are incredibly grateful to Jess for this generous donation, and to Chris for sharing his story. “We are proud to be able to make a difference to people who need our support, and we are thankful to Jess for helping shine a light on the importance of hospice care in our community.” The Myton Hospices provides care and support for people living with life-limiting illnesses, and their families, across Coventry and Warwickshire. Services are provided free of charge, but this is only possible thanks to the generosity of supporters. Visit www.mytonhospice.org/services for further details.

Ann Widdecombe Killed Almost a Day Before Body Was Discovered, Police Reveal - NATIONAL NEWS

Sat, 11 Jul 2026 14:38:14 +0100

Detectives investigating the murder of Ann Widdecombe now believe the former Conservative minister was attacked nearly 24 hours before her body was found at her Dartmoor home.

Police said the assault is thought to have happened at around 12.30pm on Wednesday 8 July, though Widdecombe, 78, was not discovered until the following morning, when a concerned friend asked a neighbour to check on her after being unable to reach her by phone.

Officers and paramedics attended the property, but she was pronounced dead at the scene. Suspect released without charge A 26-year-old man who had been arrested on suspicion of murder was released from custody on Saturday morning. Police stressed he is no longer connected to the inquiry, which Assistant Chief Constable Matt Longman described as fast-moving. Detectives are examining CCTV footage and carrying out house-to-house enquiries in the area. A further police update is expected later on Saturday. Missed television appearance raised alarm Widdecombe, who had recently taken on a role as Reform UK’s spokeswoman on immigration and justice, was due to appear on a Channel 5 programme at 2.15pm on the day she is believed to have been killed. She stopped responding to messages from a producer shortly before midday and never appeared. Her final public appearance had come earlier that morning, in a TalkTV interview discussing Nigel Farage’s decision to step down as an MP. Neighbours told reporters they had noticed nothing amiss until they realised she had missed her usual routine of collecting a newspaper from the village shop each morning, something one local said was completely out of character for her. Possible burglary link being examined One line of inquiry being pursued by detectives is whether Widdecombe disturbed a burglar at her remote bungalow, which she had named after herself when she moved there in 2008. Neighbours described the area, near Haytor, as normally very safe, with many residents in the habit of leaving doors and cars unlocked, though several said that has now changed. Some pointed out that because the property was named after her, anyone looking for her home would have had little trouble finding it. Tributes continue to arrive Political figures from across the spectrum have paid tribute. Nigel Farage said her death showed that public life had become “more dangerous,” while Sir Keir Starmer and Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch both praised her as a memorable and outspoken figure in British politics. Widdecombe’s former Strictly Come Dancing partner, Anton Du Beke, said he was devastated, recalling their partnership on the show in 2010 as one of genuine friendship. Floral tributes have continued to be laid near the cordon around her home, including by her long-time driver, who described her as kind-hearted and direct. A memorial Mass is due to be held at Buckfast Abbey, where Widdecombe, who converted to Catholicism in 1993, regularly worshipped. Police have asked the public not to speculate about the case on social media, saying it risks harming the investigation and causing further distress to Widdecombe’s family, who have asked for privacy at this time. Anyone with information has been urged to come forward.

Dog show to raise cash for new Warwick community centre

Sat, 11 Jul 2026 07:00:00 +0100

POOCHES are helping to raise pounds for a new community centre in Warwick. A dog show is being held in the College Gardens at St Mary’s Church on Saturday July 18, with all proceeds going to the Priory Pools Community Centre appeal. Dog owners are invited to bring their four-legged friends along from 2pm, with no need to pre-register. Three dog-loving judges will be putting the entrants through their paces – Richard Nicholson from Warwick Schools Foundation, former high sheriff of Warwickshire Karen Lynch, and Daren Bowye, the master of Lord Leycester Hospital There are various categories to enter including best dog under two, best vintage dog, waggiest tail and cleverest trick. Entry costs £2 per class, with every penny going towards the campaign to build a new community centre for the Packmores Estate. Suzette Aagaard, families and community engagement minister at St Mary’s, said: “As a huge dog lover, I love bringing our dog show to the heart of Warwick and would love to see a great turnout. We’ll have refreshments, dog-themed stalls, fantastic prizes kindly donated by local businesses and, of course, plenty of wagging tails. “No dog will leave empty-pawed. Please come along for a fun afternoon in the beautiful College Gardens while helping support a fantastic local cause.” Priory Pools Community Centre recently celebrated reaching a major fundraising milestone after securing a £300,000 grant from The National Lottery Community Fund, taking the total raised to £2.1 million towards the new £2.49 million community centre. The charity is now completing its contractor tender process and hopes to begin construction in September, subject to securing the final funding needed. Janette Eslick, trustee and lead fundraiser for Priory Pools Community Centre, added: “We’re incredibly grateful to St Mary’s for their continued support of our project. Their annual dog show has become a fantastic community event and another opportunity to bring people together while raising funds for the new community centre.”

West Midlands Ambulance Service gearing up for busy weekend with England and the heatwave

Fri, 10 Jul 2026 21:00:00 +0100

WEST Midlands Ambulance Service (WMAS) is stepping up preparations ahead of an expected busy few days with the hot weather and England’s World Cup quarter-final against Norway, writes Kingsley Wynter.

The Met Office is forecasting a prolonged period of high temperatures across the region. Add in England’s hotly anticipated clash with Norway on Saturday night and the Trust has foreseen a significant increase in call outs.

Additional frontline ambulance crews, more 999 call assessors, increased numbers of operational officers and extra fleet support will all be in place to help ensure patients continue to receive the care they need throughout. Periods of hot weather can lead to an increase in heat-related illness, dehydration and medical emergencies, while high-profile football fixtures can often lead to an increase in calls linked to celebrations and large gatherings.

WMAS’ Chief Operating Officer, Nathan Hudson, said: “We’re expecting a busy few days as the warm weather continues and excitement builds ahead of England’s match. “We’re planning for both and have increased resources across our services to make sure we’re ready to respond whenever people need us. “We want everyone to enjoy the fantastic weather and hopefully celebrate an England victory, but we’d encourage people to look after themselves, their friends and their families while doing so. “Simple things like drinking plenty of water, protecting yourself from the sun, checking in on the elderly and vulnerable relatives and neighbours and celebrating responsibly can make a real difference. “If you’re heading out to watch the mach, plan your journey home, keep an eye on those around you and remember that 999 should always be reserved for genuine life-threatening emergencies. “Choosing the right NHS service when it’s not an emergency helps ensure our crews remain available for patients who need them most. “We hope everyone has a safe and enjoyable week and good luck to the Three Lions.”

Pollen peril: millions of Britons brace for hay fever misery as Met Office sounds the alarm – here's what you need to do...

Fri, 10 Jul 2026 18:19:09 +0100

Parts of England are experiencing high and very high pollen counts this summer, according to the Met Office, with grass pollen identified as the main culprit.

The forecaster’s warning comes as an estimated quarter of UK adults and up to 15 per cent of children live with hay fever, a condition that can significantly disrupt daily life during the warmer months.

With counts elevated, health experts are urging sufferers to rethink their daily routines, from the time they exercise outdoors to how often they wash their bedding.

When pollen is worst

According to Owena Cleary, Director of CPR First Aid Training, pollen tends to build steadily throughout the day and reach its peak as temperatures fall in the early evening. This makes parks, playing fields and other open grassy areas particularly risky at that time, and anyone hoping to exercise outdoors is advised to do so around the middle of the day instead, when pollen counts typically dip. Mornings are not much safer. A stretch of warm, still weather followed by a breezy afternoon can carry large amounts of pollen into gardens and parks, and sufferers are advised to keep windows shut until counts fall. Dry spells make matters worse, allowing pollen to accumulate in the air rather than being washed away by rain, while windy conditions can carry pollen further and keep it airborne for longer than many people realise.

Recognising the symptoms

Hay fever symptoms range from itchy, watering eyes and a runny nose to sneezing, sore throats and headaches. They arise because the immune system mistakes pollen for a threat and releases histamine, triggering swelling in the nose and eyes as the body attempts to block the allergen. Because the severity and type of symptoms can depend on which pollens a person is sensitive to, as well as the time of year, time of day and weather conditions, hay fever can feel unpredictable and difficult to manage.

Plants to avoid

Birch, oak and ash trees are among the biggest pollen producers in the UK each summer, alongside ryegrass and timothy grass, which can pose problems for gardeners. Fresh or dried flowers — particularly sunflowers, daisies and lilies — are best kept out of bedrooms during peak pollen months. Lavender, geraniums and roses are suggested as lower-pollen alternatives for gardens, as they are pollinated by insects rather than the wind.

The importance of washing routines

Pollen clings to hair and clothing until it is washed off, and experts recommend washing hair every evening during peak weeks. Clothes worn outdoors should be laundered promptly, and bedding should be stripped and washed on a hot cycle at least once a week. Drying laundry outdoors on high-pollen days is discouraged, as fabric left on the line collects pollen that is then brought back indoors — a habit Cleary describes as one of the most common mistakes people make, even though it can be tempting during warm weather. Cars are often overlooked as a source of pollen exposure. Regularly wiping down the interior and fitting a proper pollen filter can make journeys more comfortable for allergy sufferers.

What treatments help

Antihistamines remain a first-line treatment, working by blocking the histamine responsible for sneezing and itching, and are most effective when taken ahead of pollen exposure. Steroid nasal sprays can help those whose main symptom is a blocked nose, while eye drops may ease redness and burning. Many sufferers find relief comes from combining two or three treatments that target different symptoms, rather than relying on a single product. Cleary advises that anyone whose symptoms are worsening or not responding to over-the-counter treatments should see their GP, noting that hay fever should not be allowed to seriously disrupt daily life.

Do natural remedies work?

Steam inhalation — breathing over a bowl of hot water under a towel — is a long-standing home remedy that may ease congestion in the short term, though it does not address the underlying allergy. Saline rinses work in a similar way, helping to flush pollen from the nose and thin mucus. The Met Office publishes a daily pollen forecast, and sufferers are encouraged to check it regularly to plan ahead and limit their exposure. With a few adjustments to daily habits, experts say those affected by hay fever can reduce their symptoms and get more enjoyment out of the summer months.

Here’s a top ten list for keeping hay fever symptoms under control:

Check the daily pollen forecast – The Met Office publishes counts each day, so you can plan outdoor activities around lower-risk times.
Exercise or go outside around midday – Pollen peaks in the early evening as the air cools, so late morning to early afternoon tends to be safer.
Keep windows shut in the morning and evening – These are the times pollen is most likely to drift indoors, especially after a warm, still spell.
Wash your hair every evening – Pollen collects in hair throughout the day and can transfer to your pillow overnight if left unwashed.
Change clothes and shower after being outside – Pollen clings to fabric and skin, so getting out of “outdoor clothes” quickly limits how much you carry through the house.
Wash bedding weekly on a hot cycle – This clears out any pollen that’s built up and helps you sleep more easily.
Avoid drying laundry outdoors on high-pollen days – Clothes and sheets on the line act like a pollen magnet and bring it straight back indoors.
Keep cut flowers and pollen-heavy plants out of bedrooms – Sunflowers, daisies, and lilies are worth avoiding; lavender, geraniums, and roses are lower-pollen, insect-pollinated alternatives for the garden.
Clean your car interior and fit a pollen filter – Cars trap pollen easily, and this is one of the most overlooked sources of daily exposure.
Use a combination of treatments – Antihistamines (taken ahead of exposure), a steroid nasal spray for congestion, and eye drops for irritation often work better together than relying on just one. See a GP if symptoms persist despite this.

Murder Investigation Launched After Ann Widdecombe Found Dead at Home - NATIONAL NEWS

Fri, 10 Jul 2026 17:56:34 +0100

Police say the former minister, 78, sustained serious injuries. Detectives are searching for a white male in connection with her death.

A murder investigation has been launched after Ann Widdecombe, the former Conservative MP and prisons minister, was found dead at her home on Dartmoor.

Devon and Cornwall Police said officers were called to an address at Haytor by the ambulance service at around 11:40am on Thursday 9 July. Widdecombe, 78, was found dead inside the property, having sustained serious injuries. Her next of kin have been informed and are being supported by specially trained officers. Detectives from the force’s Major Crime Investigation Team have taken on the case, and a cordon remains in place around the property while forensic examinations continue. Road closures are in effect near the scene, and residents can expect a heightened police presence in the area as officers carry out house-to-house enquiries and review CCTV footage. Detective Chief Inspector Ilona Rosson described the case as an “extremely tragic incident,” and said the family and friends of Ann Widdecombe are in the thoughts of investigators. She confirmed the enquiry is moving at pace and that the force is committing significant resources to identifying who is responsible — described by police as a white male. Anyone with information, including CCTV, doorbell or dashcam footage from the Haytor Vale area, is asked to contact Devon and Cornwall Police via their Major Incident Public Portal, by calling 101 and quoting reference 50260179119 and Operation Hunlen, or anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. Political tributes Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood said she was deeply saddened by the news, calling the circumstances of Widdecombe’s death extremely distressing, and praised her decades of public service. Mahmood said she has spoken with the Chief Constable of Devon and Cornwall Police and confirmed the Home Office stands ready to support the ongoing investigation. She also urged the public to avoid speculation while the inquiry proceeds. Widdecombe’s management firm, Cloud9 Management, said the team was devastated by the news after what it called a traumatic 24 hours, and asked that the family’s wish for privacy be respected while supporting the police investigation. Tributes have also come from across the political spectrum. A councillor in Cornwall described her as one of the most recognisable and fearless figures in British public life, noting that she spoke her mind and stood by her principles regardless of political fashion. A long career in public life Widdecombe was the Conservative MP for Maidstone, later Maidstone and The Weald, from 1987 until she stood down in 2010. During that time she held junior ministerial posts, including prisons minister, under John Major’s government, and became known as one of the most outspoken social conservatives in Westminster, opposing abortion rights and the expansion of LGBT rights. After leaving the Commons, she remained a prominent public figure, appearing on Strictly Come Dancing and Celebrity Big Brother. Her political journey continued too: she left the Conservative Party in 2019 to join the Brexit Party as an MEP, before later becoming a spokeswoman for Reform UK. She had lived alone at her home near Haytor, on the edge of Dartmoor National Park, since retiring from Parliament. What happens next Police have stressed that the investigation is in its early stages. Detectives are appealing directly to anyone who may have witnessed suspicious activity in the vicinity of Haytor Vale in the days before Widdecombe’s body was found. Further updates are expected from Devon and Cornwall Police as the inquiry, codenamed Operation Hunlen, develops. This is a developing story and will be updated as more information becomes available.

Image: For illustration purposes only.

Warwickshire families invited to turn up the volume on reading this summer

Fri, 10 Jul 2026 17:00:00 +0100

FAMILIES across Warwickshire are invited to turn up the volume on reading this summer. Warwickshire Libraries has launched its 2026 Summer Reading Challenge, Read to the Beat! encouraging children to discover the joy of reading through rhythm, creativity and storytelling. Youngsters can sign up at any Warwickshire County Council-managed library and take part by reading books, collecting rewards and joining a packed programme of free activities. This year’s offer includes interactive workshops with Warwickshire Music, inclusive dance sessions led by Anjali Dance Company, electronic music-making experiences through ‘Build the Beat’ workshops, and weekly Summer Reading Challenge Clubs. Younger children can enjoy the ‘Summer Book Bears’ scheme alongside regular library favourites such as Rhyme Time, Story Stomp and Duplo Play sessions. Teenagers can get involved through Teen Book Bingo, volunteer opportunities and creative poetry workshops with professional poet Kurly McGeachie. Reading will also extend beyond library walls through Park Life Reads events in local green spaces and appearances at community celebrations including Whitnash Fun Day. WCC’s resources spokesperson Coun Mike Bannister said: “The Summer Reading Challenge is a fantastic way to inspire children to read for pleasure during the school holidays while having fun and building confidence. This year’s ‘Read to the Beat’ theme combines the power of stories with the excitement of music and creativity, offering something for every child. I encourage families across Warwickshire to visit their local library this summer and get involved.” All Summer Reading Challenge activities are free, with many events available to book online. Visit www.eventbrite.com/cc/summer-holiday-events-4810888 for more details.

Having Fun for Less: The Budget Entertainment Trend Taking Off

Fri, 10 Jul 2026 15:40:56 +0100

At a reduced-price family film screening, the arithmetic begins long before the trailers roll. While the ticket may be manageable, the snack counter can still make the evening feel like a treat or a stretch. These small calculations are reshaping leisure: the spending limit is set before anyone leaves home. As a result, we have a sharper appetite for budget entertainment. This is not joyless thrift, by any means, but a watchful bit of fun, built to survive contact with the weekly budget.

The Price of Fun Is Being Rewritten

Entertainment is often treated as disposable spending. In practice, leisure gives families a reason to leave the house and friends a simple way to stay connected. When costs rise, those moments rarely vanish. They get resized. The pressure is visible in the data: The Office for National Statistics reported that average weekly household expenditure reached £623.30 in the 2024 financial year, up 10% in cash terms. Recreation and culture spending also rose in real terms, while transport and housing absorbed larger increases. That explains why affordable entertainment now faces a harder payment-stage test. Leisure inflation rarely feels like a single price rise. It can appear on the ticket page, then again on the travel, food, or parking page. Capped offers are working because they remove that second wave of hesitation.

Small-Ticket Leisure Has Lost Its Old Stigma

Cheap entertainment used to carry a faint apology, as if it were the fallback after the proper night out became too expensive. That tone has shifted dramatically. A lower-cost plan now feels deliberate, especially when a premium experience may not justify the stretch. Nationwide’s 2026 spending trends research found that experiences, including festivals and concerts, remained a priority for 19% of consumers. At the same time, 31% were planning to cut back on eating out. People still want memory-making, but they are becoming more selective. In turn, low-cost leisure has gained ground. A local film night can still feel like an outing, or a free gallery visit with a paid coffee still gives shape to a Saturday. The transaction is smaller, but the social purpose survives.

The budget entertainment shift is showing up in a few clear ways:

More interest in off-peak cinema screenings and family ticket deals
Fewer impulse nights out, where food, travel, and extras push up the final cost
More selective spending on concerts, festivals, and premium experiences
A stronger preference for entertainment where the total cost is clear upfront

Digital Entertainment Is Under the Same Pressure

At home, the budget calculation has become more crowded. Streaming once felt like the obvious answer to expensive nights out. Then prices rose, password rules tightened, and households started counting unused platforms. Ofcom’s Media Nations 2025 report found that take-up of subscription video-on-demand services had plateaued, even as younger audiences still often turn to them first when switching on the television. Introducing modern subscription fatigue: the habit remains, but the bill invites scrutiny. The same low-commitment logic appears in regulated adult gaming markets. Comparison pages for best $1 deposit casinos in Canada sit within a wider consumer pattern, where people test an entertainment product with a tiny upfront stake. The appeal is control: a hard ceiling and a way to sample without overbuying the evening.

Local Venues Are Selling Certainty

For cinemas, theatres, and community events, the competition is not only another venue across town. It is the sofa. The offer has to feel worth the effort before bus times, childcare, or bad weather are factored in. The UK government’s 2026 Great British Summer Savings scheme underlined the same point from the policy side. From 25 June to 1 September 2026, a temporary 5% VAT rate applied to certain children’s meals, children’s cinema and theatre admissions, and selected family attractions. The cut was framed around summer affordability, but it also showed how price clarity can decide whether a family outing happens. In towns such as Leamington Spa, repeat habits matter more than occasional splurges. For local operators, value-led entertainment can fill quieter evenings and school-holiday gaps without making the experience feel stripped back.

For local venues, the value pitch usually works best when it is simple:

Clear pricing before booking
Family-friendly offers during school holidays
Off-peak deals that make quieter slots feel worthwhile
No surprise extras that sour the experience

The Deal Is Now Part of the Story

The bargain is no longer something people quietly hide. A discounted screening or a clever meal-and-film package can travel through neighborhood Facebook groups with a little pride attached. Finding a good deal now feels like a small act of control. That pride says plenty about the current mood. After years of prices moving faster than wages for many households, a cheaper evening out can feel oddly satisfying. The cost is known, the risk is low, and no financial post-mortem awaits the next morning. Budget options benefit from lower pressure. When a modestly priced event is warm, well-run and easy to understand, the value lands quickly. The surprise is not that people like saving money. It is that the saving has become part of the pleasure.

Cheap Cannot Mean Careless

The weak version of this trend assumes lower-cost audiences will accept a thinner experience. They usually won’t. A cheaper ticket may bring people through the door once, but the return visit depends on timing, atmosphere, and whether the venue treats budget customers as valued customers. Such a distinction will decide which offers last. Discounts are easy to copy, but trust takes longer. The strongest budget entertainment options make the total cost clear, keep the experience pleasant and avoid the sour finish of surprise fees or awkward upsells., Having fun for less is not a gloomy movement because it has a practical optimism to it. Entertainment has been edited, yes, but not abandoned. In a market where every pound has to defend itself, people are still asking fun to meet the budget halfway.

Water bosses call for care as demand rockets in heatwave

Fri, 10 Jul 2026 15:20:47 +0100

DEMAND for water rose by 203 million litres on just one day this week – with people now using an extra 44 litres each day during the third summer heatwave. And Severn Trent says its teams are prepared for a very busy Saturday night as football fever takes hold again for England’s World Cup clash with Norway. As temperatures reach the early 30Cs over the weekend, dedicated crews across the region will be keeping the taps flowing – with people being asked to be water-wise and mindful of their water use. Severn Trent network operations lead Howard Perry said: “It’s the third heatwave of the summer with no rain expected and we’re seeing people use much more water for longer periods than usual. And whilst we don’t have any restrictions in place, we’d really welcome everyone’s support to be mindful of water use. “Water is being used for longer and the usual ‘evening peak’ that finishes at 9pm is now stretching through until 1am each day, so high usage is over longer periods of time.” And he added there were plenty of small tips to help everyone save water, including cutting back in the garden. “We understand people want to care for their gardens, but grass will bounce back once the rain returns. “There are no restrictions in place in the Severn Trent region and we want to reassure everyone that we’re working round the clock, producing hundreds of millions of extra water each day, and because of the heatwave and the extra water that’s being used, we’d really appreciate your support to keep water flowing this summer.” During the two previous heatwaves Severn Trent was treating an extra 400 million litres a day – an increase in demand of more than 20 per cent – as customers tried to cool off and stay hydrated. The company has also experienced significant surges in demand during England’s progress in the World Cup. During the Three Lions’ 2am clash with Mexico, demand was 1.54 million litres higher than it would be for a normal Monday morning. And during England’s first 9pm match against Croatia, demand dropped sharply from normal levels as the game kicked off but rose again at half-time – cups of tea and toilet breaks – and full-time – showers and baths as we all got ready for bed. Tomorrow is again expected to be a 30C scorcher and the England game is due to kick off at 10pm – when temperatures are still expected to be around 20C. Peak demand is predicted to be at half-time and full-time, when people enjoy a drink of water, cuppa or toilet break before bed.

Young voices help shape funding decisions across the region

Fri, 10 Jul 2026 15:14:46 +0100

Two members of Warwickshire’s Youth Council are now helping decide how funding is used to support children and young people, after being appointed as Associate Trustees of the Norton Foundation.

Current Youth Council member Alexis and former member Amber have taken on the new roles through a partnership between the Norton Foundation and Warwickshire County Council’s Voice, Change and Influence Team.

The partnership came about after trustees from the Norton Foundation attended the Warwickshire Youth Conference and saw first-hand the confidence, professionalism and leadership shown by Youth Council members. Impressed by what they saw, the trustees wanted to involve young people directly in their work, ensuring the voices of those they support are part of the Foundation’s decision-making process. The Norton Foundation provides grants to support children and young people under the age of 25 across Warwickshire, Birmingham, Coventry and Solihull. Since joining the Foundation, Alexis and Amber have already helped trustees gain a deeper understanding of the experiences of young people today. By sharing insight into what support is currently available – and where the gaps remain – they are helping the Foundation make better-informed decisions about which projects to support. Alexis, Warwickshire Youth Council member and Associate Trustee, said:

“It’s been a great opportunity to share my experiences and help make decisions that could benefit other young people. It’s good to know our views are listened to and that we can make a positive difference.”

The initiative aligns closely with Child Friendly Warwickshire’s ambitions, giving young people a genuine opportunity to be heard and to influence decisions that affect their lives. It also underlines the positive impact of Warwickshire’s Youth Council and the wider work of the Voice, Change and Influence Team, which creates opportunities for children and young people across the county to share their views and make a difference in their communities. Warwickshire County Councillor Wayne Briggs, Portfolio Holder for Children and Families, Education and SEND, said:

“We want children and young people to have a real say in decisions that affect their lives. This partnership shows the difference it makes when organisations listen to young people and value their experiences. I’m proud of Alexis and Amber for taking on this role and of our Children and Families teams for helping create opportunities like this.”

Mike Bailey, Trustee and Vice Chair of the Norton Foundation, added:

“We wanted to involve young people in our work because they understand the challenges their generation faces better than anyone. Alexis and Amber have already made a real contribution to our discussions and helped us make better-informed decisions. We’d like to thank Warwickshire County Council’s Voice, Change and Influence Team for helping make this partnership possible.”

The Voice, Change and Influence Team works with children and young people across region to make sure their voices are heard and acted on. Through the Warwickshire Youth Council and other participation opportunities, the team supports young people to influence decisions, develop new skills and create positive change across the county.

Magicians go head-to-head in Leamington magic competition

Fri, 10 Jul 2026 14:00:00 +0100

MAGICIANS will trying every trick in the book when they go head-to-head in a magic competition. The Leamington Day of Magic takes place on Tuesday July 14 at Lillington Working Men’s Club. The event runs all day and features the prestigious Champion of Champions Close-Up Competition, four lectures, and a magic dealers convention. Tickets are £40 on the door. Doors open at 7pm for the public evening events, while the full day features daytime workshops and the main contest. It is hosted by the Leamington and Warwick Magic Society, established in 1948. To book a ticket or ask about the schedule contact Magic Matt Redmond on 07905 176230.

NHS Trust Honours Staff Who Have Given Over 3,000 Years of Combined Service

Fri, 10 Jul 2026 13:42:02 +0100

Coventry and Warwickshire Partnership NHS Trust (CWPT) has paid tribute to 117 members of staff who between them have clocked up more than 3,180 years of service to patients and communities across the region.

The trust’s annual Long Service Awards ceremony took place on 30 June, honouring colleagues who have spent decades of their careers supporting people across Coventry and Warwickshire’s physical health, mental health and learning disability services.

Chief Executive Mary Mumvuri MBE, who has worked in the NHS for more than 30 years herself, said the awards were among her favourite events of the year, describing them as a celebration of “the people who are at the very heart of our NHS.” She said that although the health service has changed considerably over the decades, the underlying motivation of staff had not: to care for people and make a difference in their lives. Mary said:

“The Long Service Awards are one of my favourite events of the year because they celebrate the people who are at the very heart of our NHS. Having worked in the NHS for over 30 years myself, I know how much things have changed over that time, and I also know how those experiences shape us and shape what we do. “What has never changed is the reason we come to work every day – to care for people, support our communities and make a positive difference in someone’s life. That shared purpose is what connects every generation of NHS staff, whether you’ve worked here for five years or forty. “Every colleague we recognised has helped shape our Trust through periods of change, challenge and innovation, always keeping patients at the centre of what they do. Their dedication, compassion and professionalism are something we should all be incredibly proud of, and it was a privilege to celebrate and thank them for everything they have contributed.”

Among those recognised this year were Sheri Ashton, Head of Service for Talking Therapies, who has completed 35 years with the NHS, and Carol Watson, who has notched up more than 40 years supporting patients and colleagues. Sheri began her NHS career as a student mental health nurse in 1990, going on to hold a range of clinical and leadership roles before taking up her current post. She credited the variety of opportunities within the health service for keeping her in the profession for so long, and praised colleagues who “care deeply about the people they support and about each other.” Carol joined the NHS straight from college at the age of 19. Over more than four decades she has supported clinical teams across the region, including 25 years as a Medical Secretary with the Psychotherapy Team. Reflecting on her career, she said she had found her “perfect fit” with a team that became like a second family, and that the role had taught her she was more resilient than she had realised. Also recognised at the ceremony was Raj Auchoybur, who marked an extraordinary 50 years of service to the NHS. He was presented with his award by CWPT Chair Eamonn Kelly. CWPT said it would continue to share the stories of long-serving colleagues throughout the year as part of its efforts to highlight the dedication behind its services. The trust provides physical health, mental health and learning disability care to children, young people, adults and older adults across numerous sites in Coventry and Warwickshire, seeing around 5,000 patients a day. Its services currently hold an overall rating of Good from the Care Quality Commission. CWPT is part of the Coventry and Warwickshire Health and Care Partnership, which brings together the NHS, local government and the voluntary sector to integrate care across the region.

What's Working in Social Media Advertising Right Now

Fri, 10 Jul 2026 13:21:19 +0100

Social media advertising has changed more in the past two years than in the five before that. The brands getting strong results aren't the ones spending the most — they're the ones that figured out what the platforms actually reward, and built their creative strategy around it. The short version: content that looks and feels like content outperforms content that looks like an ad. That's not a creative opinion. It's what the data shows, consistently, across Meta and TikTok.

Why an Influencer Marketing Platform Has Become Central to Social Media Ad Strategy

The best-performing social media ads right now are mostly made by creators, not brand creative teams. They're filmed on phones, delivered in a natural tone, and feel like a recommendation rather than a sales pitch. Brands then run this content as paid ads — and it outperforms polished studio creative on almost every metric that matters. An influencer marketing platform gives brands a structured way to do this at scale. Rather than sourcing individual creators, negotiating contracts, and chasing content delivery across email threads, the platform handles briefing, rights, and delivery in one place — so the focus stays on what the content achieves, not the admin of getting it made. For businesses in Leamington Spa and the surrounding area, this kind of infrastructure makes creator-led social advertising accessible without needing a large in-house team.

The Problem With Most Social Media Ad Creative

Most brands approach social media advertising the same way they approach every other channel — with brand-approved creative, approved messaging, and a look that's immediately recognisable as an advert. That's exactly what performs worst on social platforms. Meta and TikTok both reward content that earns genuine engagement. When an ad gets scrolled past immediately, the platform registers that signal and charges more to show it to the next person. When content earns saves, comments, and watch time, it gets cheaper to distribute. Creator content starts with an advantage here. Because it looks like organic content — filmed in real environments, delivered in a real voice — it earns those engagement signals more naturally. The platform rewards it, the cost per result drops, and the same budget goes further.

What Micro and Nano Creators Bring to Social Advertising

The instinct for many brands is to find the biggest creator they can afford. The data points in the opposite direction. Micro influencers — those with between 10,000 and 100,000 followers — and nano influencers below that threshold consistently outperform larger accounts on the metrics that drive paid ad performance. Tighter audiences, higher trust, more genuine engagement. A creator with 12,000 highly engaged followers in the right niche will produce content that outperforms a creator with 500,000 passive ones, at a fraction of the cost. Spreading budget across several smaller creators also reduces risk. Rather than betting a campaign on one expensive partnership, brands can test multiple angles simultaneously — different hooks, different formats, different audiences — and put money behind what works.

Building a Social Ad Strategy That Compounds

The brands winning on social media advertising aren't running one-off campaigns. They're treating creator content as a pipeline — continuously briefing new creators, testing new angles, and rotating in fresh content before the current batch fatigues. Ad fatigue is real. Run the same creative for too long and frequency climbs, engagement drops, and costs go up. The fix isn't a bigger budget — it's a steady supply of new content. That's what makes a platform approach different from managing creator relationships manually. When sourcing, briefing, and delivery are handled in one place, keeping a rolling content pipeline going doesn't require a dedicated team member. It becomes a manageable process rather than a constant operational drain. For businesses looking at social media advertising with fresh eyes, the entry point is simpler than it looks: one clear brief, a small roster of matched creators, and a test budget. What you learn in the first round shapes everything that follows.

Green projects across Warwick district invited to apply for Nature Fund cash

Fri, 10 Jul 2026 12:00:35 +0100

CASH is available for projects that will create a greener and more resilient district. Applications are now open for Warwick District Council’s Community Climate and Nature Fund. Grants of up to £10,000 are available to registered charities, Community Interest Companies (CIC), schools, town and parish councils and not-for-profit groups for projects that reduce greenhouse gas emissions, adapt and build resilience to climate change, conserve and enhance biodiversity, reduce waste, or increase recycling and support the circular economy. Applicants are encouraged to read the detailed guidance notes and FAQs before applying, to ensure their application meets the criteria. The first round of funding applications will close on September 30 with decisions made by October 31. WDC's decarbonisation spokesperson Coun Hema Yellapragada said: “I’m delighted to confirm that the first round of funding is now open for applications. Communities are at the heart of creating meaningful and impactful change, and we’re proud to support their initiatives for a greener and healthier district through this fund. I would encourage any councils, community groups, schools and charities to apply.” Visit www.warwickdc.gov.uk/CCNF for more details.

BOWLS - Warwickshire Women thrash Oxfordshire in first round of Johns Trophy

Fri, 10 Jul 2026 12:00:25 +0100

WARWICKSHIRE Women pulled out all the stops to triumph 111-72 against Oxfordshire in the first round of the Johns Trophy.

Players from the Warwickshire Women’s Bowling Association helped the county take 20 points from the fixture while Oxfordshire came away with just two points.

The game started half an hour late owing to long traffic delays for some of the players. However, the Warwickshire quartet of skip Moira Parsons with Lily-Mae Adams (both Welford), Caroline Edwards (Royal Leamington Spa) and Gill Maund (Sherwood Park) came from behind to claim the highest winning rink with a 27-10 win. And the team of skip Emily Kernick with Caroline Halliwell, Amy Williams (all Royal Leamington Spa) and Tracy Wheeler (Welford) took four shots at the 11th end to pull away and claim a 19-9 victory. Warwickshire's momentum continued as Debbie Bloxham (Stratford) with Joy Cooke (Sherwood Park), Wendy Wilson and Jane Chedgzoy (Welford) lost three shots on the eighth end but recovered to secure a 17-12 win. And Liz Wooding with Gillian Greenbank, Ros Taylor (all Avenue Coventry) and Anna Molony (RLS) took four shots on the seventh end to triumph 17-12. Another Warwickshire victory came via Kirsty Richards with Ellie Hurst, Michelle Meadowcroft (all RLS) and Ginny Burns (Warwick Boat Club) as the quartet battled to a 16-13 win. The team of Maureen Edwards with Nicola Bradshaw, Becky Lever (all Rugby Thornfield) and Sandra Dean (Warwickshire County Council) led after 12 ends only to suffer a narrow 16-15 defeat. County President, Vanessa Brazier, presented a county badge to Jane Chedgzoy (Welford) together with Johns Trophy flashes to Caroline Halliwell (RLS), Nicola Bradshaw and Becky Lever (both Rugby Thornfield).

Labour MPs Call on Burnham to Soften Immigration Crackdown - NATIONAL NEWS

Fri, 10 Jul 2026 09:26:56 +0100

Almost 80 Labour MPs have written to Andy Burnham urging him to water down planned immigration reforms, arguing that the Government’s approach is too focused on reducing migration and not compassionate enough.

The intervention highlights continuing divisions within Labour over immigration policy, with some MPs concerned that tougher rules could alienate left-leaning voters.

In a joint letter to the prime minister-in-waiting, the MPs criticised proposals put forward by Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood, including plans to make migrants wait longer before they can settle permanently in the UK. Under the Government’s Immigration and Asylum Bill, most migrants would have to wait twice as long before becoming eligible for indefinite leave to remain, the immigration status that allows someone to live and work permanently in Britain. The bill would also require asylum seekers who have been housed in taxpayer-funded accommodation to repay some of those costs once they are able to work. Ministers say the measure is designed to make the asylum system fairer and reduce the burden on taxpayers. However, Labour MPs argued the proposals also unfairly target people who arrived legally and followed the rules. In their letter, they said they could not recall voters asking for tougher settlement rules for migrant workers and warned that the party was spending political capital on reforms that many people did not understand. The MPs also criticised what they described as “hostile rhetoric” around immigration and asylum, calling on the Government to place greater emphasis on compassion. Their concerns are not focused on illegal immigration alone. The letter specifically objects to measures affecting legal migrants who come to Britain for work and later seek permanent settlement. The row suggests that a significant number of Labour MPs are uncomfortable with attempts to tighten parts of both the legal and illegal immigration systems, despite growing public concern about migration levels in recent years. The reforms would also limit the ability of asylum seekers to use human rights laws to challenge deportation decisions, restrict certain modern slavery claims and introduce a fast-track appeals process aimed at speeding up removals. Foreign nationals convicted of crimes could also face deportation regardless of the length of their prison sentence, replacing the current system under which deportation is usually considered only for those sentenced to at least 12 months behind bars. At the same time, the Government is continuing work on new “safe and legal routes” for refugees fleeing conflict and persecution. The scheme is expected to be based on sponsorship programmes similar to those already operating in Canada and under the UK’s Homes for Ukraine programme. The latest intervention is not the first sign of opposition from Labour’s backbenches. Earlier this year, more than 50 Labour MPs reportedly threatened to rebel against aspects of Mahmood’s immigration plans unless they were softened. Mr Burnham supported the reforms during his campaign in Makerfield, a constituency that strongly backed Brexit, and has argued that voters want greater control over immigration. Whether he chooses to stand by the measures or bow to pressure from Labour MPs could become one of the first major tests of his leadership. For now, the letter underlines a debate that continues to divide the Labour Party: how far Britain should go in tightening its immigration system, and whether tougher controls reflect what voters want.

What do you think?

The intervention from almost 80 Labour MPs has reignited the debate over immigration and border control. Supporters of the reforms argue that requiring migrants to wait longer before settling permanently, strengthening deportation powers and asking asylum seekers to repay some accommodation costs are reasonable measures that reflect public concerns about immigration levels and pressures on public services. Critics, however, say the proposals are unfair on people who have come to Britain legally and risk creating a system that is too focused on enforcement rather than compassion. Do you think Labour should press ahead with tougher immigration rules, or should ministers listen to MPs calling for the reforms to be watered down? Share your views with us by emailing Claire.Bullivant@BullivantMedia.com or join the conversation on our social media channels.

Main Image: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/

GYMNASTICS - Peacock Gymnastics Academy celebrate record-breaking performance at NGA National Finals

Fri, 10 Jul 2026 09:00:39 +0100

PEACOCK Gymnastics Academy won 13 medals as the club celebrated a record-breaking performance at the NGA National Finals.

The Shipston-on-Stour-based club ended the competition in seventh place out of 33 qualifying clubs on the national stage in Liverpool.

A total of 11 Peacock athletes qualified for the National Finals as the club returned home with seven gold, two silver and four bronze medals. Eira Etheridge, Layla-Mai Burton, Rhea Blunden, Isla Holley, Neve Giddings, Nancy Stone, Miller Irvine, Mollie Stone, Emily Cox, Zac Kethilye and Eligh Patterson all represented the club at the National Finals. Peacock significantly improved on last year's single gold medal at the National Finals.

Club director, Bijou Tucker said: "Finishing seventh in Britain is a phenomenal achievement for Peacock. "We are competing against clubs with much larger squads and long-established national programmes, so for our gymnasts to deliver seven golds and 13 medals is something every gymnast, coach and parent should be incredibly proud of. "This success belongs to the whole academy. "The finalists were outstanding, but they were pushed every week by teammates who trained, competed, improved and came very close themselves. "That wider depth is what gives us confidence for next season."

Peacock enjoyed success across multiple levels and categories, winning medals on vault, bars, beam, floor and in the all around competition. And club gymnast Irvine finished eighth in the all around national final with the athlete initially listed as first reserve before receiving a call-up to compete.

Tucker added: "Miller’s story sums up the attitude we want throughout the club. "Stay ready, keep working and take the opportunity when it comes. "To move from first reserve to eighth nationally is a brilliant achievement."

Peacock's Kethilye won the national all around title at Level One after performing well across every apparatus. Around 40 of the club's athletes competed throughout the 2025/26 season.

Dad running 110 miles in a day in meory of stillborn son

Fri, 10 Jul 2026 07:00:00 +0100

A DAD who lost his baby son to a rare genetic condition is preparing to take on his toughest fundraising challenge yet – running 110 miles in 24 hours to honour what would have been his son Oscar’s 10th birthday. Jack Taylor, from Kenilworth, will take on the challenge today, in a bid to raise £10,000 for The Lily Mae Foundation, a Coventry-based baby loss charity that supported his family during the darkest days of their lives. When Jack and his wife, Ellen, discovered they were expecting their second child in May 2016, they approached the pregnancy with cautious optimism after experiencing two previous miscarriages. But at their 12-week scan, doctors identified an enlarged bladder, prompting weeks of monitoring and further investigations at Birmingham Women’s Hospital. Despite the initial concerns, the family were given renewed hope. By the 20-week scan, Oscar appeared to be developing well and doctors were reassured by his progress. But just eight weeks later, everything changed. During a routine 28-week scan, doctors discovered serious abnormalities affecting Oscar’s heart and brain. Further investigations, including an MRI scan, confirmed he had Trisomy 13 (Patau’s syndrome) – a rare chromosomal condition associated with severe medical complications and a very low chance of survival. Jack said: “We knew our options and although it was the most horrific choice we have ever had to make, we felt we had to protect our son from any more pain and suffering. “We decided to let him go to sleep in mummy’s tummy, where he was most comfortable.” Oscar was born sleeping at 32 weeks on December 7, 2016. Nearly a decade on, Jack – also dad to Isabella, 11, and Emelia, eight – is taking on his biggest fundraising challenge yet to give back to The Lily Mae Foundation, whose support has helped his family navigate life after loss. Jack said: “The support we’ve received over the years has been invaluable. They helped us create precious memories with Oscar and reminded us that we would never have to face our grief alone.” Determined to ensure other families receive the same support, Jack has spent almost a decade taking on increasingly demanding fundraising challenges in his son’s memory including completing seven marathons in seven days. The Lily Mae Foundation supports families affected by pregnancy and baby loss by providing memory boxes, counselling and bereavement services. The charity works to ensure no family has to face the loss of a baby alone. Visit justgiving.com/page/jack-taylor-110 to donate.

The Most Iconic World Cup Goals of All Time

Thu, 09 Jul 2026 17:58:02 +0100

Every World Cup leaves behind moments that seem to belong to a different world. Some goals are remembered because they changed a match, while others stayed alive because of the feeling around them. People remember where they were when they saw them. They remember the commentary, the noise in the stadium and the sense that football could still produce something completely unexpected. Across nearly a century of tournaments, certain goals have risen above the rest and become part of football history itself. They are replayed before every new World Cup begins and spoken about by supporters who were not even born when they happened. It is also worth noting that moments like these have a habit of shifting football odds overnight, turning underdogs into contenders and sending shockwaves through the football world. So with that being said, today we will be taking a look at the most iconic World Cup goals of all time.

Diego Maradona vs England, 1986

Maradona’s second goal against England in Mexico City is still regarded by many as the greatest goal football has seen. Picking the ball up inside his own half, he drifted past a line of England players before rounding Peter Shilton and finishing calmly. The run covered more than 60 yards and took only a few seconds, though it felt unforgettable the moment it happened. FIFA later named it the Goal of the Century.

Carlos Alberto vs Italy, 1970

Brazil’s final goal in the 1970 World Cup final captured everything admired about that side. After a quick move involving several players, Pelé played an inch-perfect ball into the path of Carlos Alberto, who arrived from deep on the right flank. He executed a powerful strike that flew beyond the keeper’s reach and secured a 4-1 win over Italy. It was a goal that became a symbol of Brazil’s style and remains one of the most iconic examples of a team goal.

Andrés Iniesta vs Netherlands, 2010

Spain waited a long time to finally be crowned the World Cup champions, despite being the home of several of the world’s best footballers. The 2010 final had become tense and physical before Andrés Iniesta finally broke through in extra time. Cesc Fàbregas found him inside the box, and Iniesta drove the ball past Maarten Stekelenburg to win Spain their first World Cup. His celebration inside Soccer City became one of the defining images of modern international football.

Dennis Bergkamp vs Argentina, 1998

Dennis Bergkamp’s winning goal against Argentina is remembered for its extraordinary control. Frank de Boer’s long pass travelled across the pitch before Bergkamp brought it down effortlessly with one touch. He then moved past Roberto Ayala and finished from a tight angle in the closing minutes. The Netherlands reached the semi-finals, and Bergkamp produced one of the most technically brilliant goals the tournament has seen.

James Rodríguez vs Uruguay, 2014

James Rodríguez produced the standout goal of the 2014 tournament during Colombia’s win over Uruguay. Controlling the ball on his chest outside the area, he struck a powerful volley that crashed in off the crossbar. The quality of the finish stunned the crowd inside the Maracanã and instantly became one of the images of the World Cup. Rodríguez later won the tournament’s Golden Boot.

Geoff Hurst vs West Germany

Geoff Hurst’s extra-time goal in the 1966 final remains one of football’s most argued-over moments. His shot rebounded off the crossbar and near the line before the referee awarded the goal despite West Germany's protests. The controversial goal helped England to a 4-2 win, ending with the iconic commentary line that is synonymous with England’s World Cup journey. The debate over whether the ball crossed the line is still ongoing; nonetheless, the goal remains central to England’s World Cup history.

Maxi Rodriguez vs Mexico, 2006

Argentina looked to be heading towards penalties against Mexico before Maxi Rodríguez changed the match with a brilliant strike in Leipzig. Juan Pablo Sorín’s pass dropped from high above,e and Rodríguez controlled it on his chest before hitting a left-foot volley into the far corner. The technique was exceptional, and the goal quickly became one of the defining moments of the 2006 World Cup.

Michael Owen vs Argentina, 1998

Michael Owen announced himself to the world during England’s match against Argentina in Saint Étienne. He collected the ball near the halfway line and burst through the Argentine defence with pace and control before finishing beyond Carlos Roa. England eventually lost the match on penalties, though Owen’s goal remained one of the most memorable moments of the tournament.

Kylian Mbappé vs Argentina, 2022

Kylian Mbappé’s volley in the 2022 World Cup final arrived when France looked completely beaten. Marcus Thuram’s quick pass sat perfectly for Mbappé, who struck the ball first time beyond Emiliano Martínez. The goal transformed the final and helped drag France back into one of the greatest matches the competition has produced. Mbappé became only the second player to score a hat trick in a World Cup final.

Young Warwickshire cycling fans invited to design tour flag

Thu, 09 Jul 2026 17:00:00 +0100

YOUNG cycling fans are being asked to put their artistic skills to the test ahead of the Lloyds Tour of Britain Women’s race. Children aged 11 and under are being invited to design the official start flag and winner’s trophy for the Warwickshire stage. The competition is open until Friday July 17 and the winning flag design will be waved at the official start line, and the winning trophy will be presented to the stage winner at the end of the race, which takes place on Sunday August 23, starting and finishing in Leamington. As well as seeing their creations used on the day and receiving a goody bag, the two winners will also receive a special invitation to either the start or the finish of the race. Warwickshire County Council’s culture spokesperson Coun Darren Cheshire said: “This is a great way for children to get involved in one of the UK’s biggest sporting events and have a chance to be in Leamington as VIP guests on race day. Whether they’re cycling fans, budding artists, or just looking for something fun to do over the next few weeks, this competition is a great chance to celebrate sport, creativity, and our wonderful county.” To be eligible, children must be 11 or under and either live in Warwickshire or attend a Warwickshire school. Designs should be bold, colourful and reflect themes of cycling, racing and Warwickshire’s identity. Entries can be submitted by post, email, or handed in at libraries or participating country parks. Visit www.warwickshire.gov.uk/cycletourcompetition for more details.

Warning to West Midlands Railway passengers ahead of strike action on Friday and Saturday

Thu, 09 Jul 2026 16:17:00 +0100

WEST Midlands Railway (WMR) is urging passengers to plantravels in advance tomorrow (Friday) and Saturday because of strike action by members of the TSSA trade union, writes Kingsley Wynter.

On Friday, there will be a limited timetable in operation and some routes will have no service at all.

Trains will not run after 7pm with the final West Midlands Railway service of the day departing from 5pm. Tomorrow, there will also be a limited timetable in operation and some routes will have no service. This time, trains will start later than usual with the first WMR service of the day beginning from 7am.

All the routes affected

There are several routes with limited service on Friday and Saturday. The Cross City Line – Lichfield Trent Valley to Redditch / Bronsgrove via Birmingham New Street will have two trains per hour and there will be one train per hour from Wolverhampton to Walsall via Birmingham New Street and on the line between Rugeley Trent Valley and Birmingham International via Birmingham New Street. There will be no trains on any other WMR route. These include all the routes via Birmingham Snow Hill, the Camp Hill Line, Nuneaton to Leamington Spa, Birmingham New Street to Hereford and Birmingham New Street to Shrewsbury. Disruption is also expected on services on Sunday morning, July 12, because of displacement of trains.

Jonny Wiseman, WMR customer experience director, said: “We are disappointed TSSA has called further unnecessary strike action which is set to cause significant disruption for our customers. “We are working hard to reach a resolution to this dispute and urge TSSA to coutinue talks.” He apologised for the inconvenience this would cause WMR customers, adding the operator was doing everything it could to minimise the impact. “If the strike action does go ahead, we will be running a significantly reduced timetable on both dates. “Customers are advised to check before they travel by visiting journey planners and our website.”

Visit: wmr.uk/industrialaction for more on the industrial action. The TSSA said strikes planned for West Midlands Trains (WMT) were over rest day working payments. It claimed the walkouts were a result of WMT and the Department for Transport repeatedly failing to fulfil their assurance that an improved rest day working agreement – giving TSSA members parity with other unions – would be secured. This is the second round of strikes in the dispute after similar action was taken in May this year. TSSA balloted over 100 members across these roles for the relevant industrial action.

The Ultimate Weekend Guide to Leamington Spa: Hidden Gems and Scenic Walks

Thu, 09 Jul 2026 14:04:34 +0100

ROYAL Leamington Spa was granted that title by Queen Victoria back when taking the waters was considered the height of medical sophistication rather than just…well…drinking lukewarm, sulfurous liquid that drinkers probably felt all the way down. The town is a slightly more compact version of Bath, but with fewer American tourists blocking the pavements. If you're drawing up a list of things to do in leamington spa, the architecture is impossible to ignore. Jephson Gardens sits right opposite the historic Pump Rooms, offering a subtropical glasshouse and a lake full of aggressive geese demanding bread. Leamington feels distinctly comfortable, the kind of place where independent coffee shops outnumber chain pharmacies and people take their weekend brunch incredibly seriously. It's an easy place to wander even if you haven’t got anywhere specific you want to end up. Whether you plan to explore the town's stunning Regency architecture or enjoy a tranquil afternoon by the canal, finding the right base for your trip is key. To get the best deal on local boutique hotels, apartments, or traditional B&Bs, travelers can use cozycozy to instantly compare all available accommodation options in the Warwickshire area. A Good walk by the Grand Union Canal at Hatton Locks A short drive or a long, determined towpath walk out of the centre brings you to a completely different type of historic infrastructure. Hatton Locks is a formidable flight of 21 locks on the Grand Union Canal, affectionately nicknamed the Stairway to Heaven by people who don't have to manually crank the heavy iron paddles to get a boat through. It's a massive feat of industrial engineering that slows life down to a crawl. It’s great to watch the narrowboats for a while. The towpath is entirely flat, though it gets predictably muddy if the British weather has behaved normally. Old hawthorn hedges line the water. It provides a stark contrast to the manicured lawns back in the town centre, offering a raw, functional piece of history that still operates exactly as it did two centuries ago. The Reward of a Traditional Country Pub Walking past 21 locks builds an appetite. Fortunately, the Warwickshire countryside has spent centuries perfecting the art of the rural watering hole. The Hatton Arms sits right at the top of the locks, occupying an old 18th-century coaching inn that manages to retain its low ceilings and stone floors without feeling like a theme park. Sitting in a beer garden with a pint of local ale while looking down over the canal network is the correct way to end a day here. The menu focuses on classic pub fare, serving up thick pies, proper chips, Sunday roasts, and sticky toffee puddings. There's an understated camaraderie among the people sitting outside, everyone nursing a drink alongside their slightly tired legs while quietly celebrating the fact that they don't actually own a canal boat and don't have to operate any more locks before sunset. Ticking the Bucket List at the Royal Pump Rooms The Royal Pump Rooms: the very spot where wealthy Georgians used to gather to drink the salty, metallic spa water in the hopes of curing everything from gout to general irritability. Today, the grand building houses the local museum and art gallery instead of medical eccentrics. The exhibition spaces are small but oddly fascinating. You can look at old swimming pool architecture, Victorian medical equipment that looks suspiciously like torture devices, local pottery, and changing contemporary art displays. It takes about an hour to loop through the whole place. It is a quiet, dry refuge if the mid-afternoon drizzle starts, offering a quick dose of heritage right on the main drag. Article by Peter Olsen

PICTURE SPECIAL: Compton Verney Food Festival swops palettes for paletes

Thu, 09 Jul 2026 12:00:00 +0100

IT WAS all about palettes of a different kind at Compton Verney at the weekend. The country house art gallery was taken over by gastronomical delights when the Great British Food Festival set up stall in the grounds. And there was plenty to please the palate of the most discerning foodie. Chef demonstrations and talks, street food vendors and live music alongside kids’ cooking classes, foraging talks and paint and sip masterclasses were all on the menu. There was even a woof zone with activities for four-legged friends. The Artisan Market was a great way to discover new producers. Street food from traders including Bombay Delicatessen set up stall, while there was also the chance to watch live music performed throughout the weekend from the likes of Limelight Duo and Rock Choir. A range of masterclasses allowed visitors to experience a new activity or revisit a passion. Louise Avery, a forager and fermentation expert and the founder and creative director of L.A Brewery, led foraging walks at the Great British Food Festival. Two former Masterchef contestants from different series joined the roster of chefs this year. Sam Kaeokon, who reached the final, and semi-finalist Olayemi Adelekan, known as Yemi, both cooked up a storm on the Headline stage.

Starmer Signals Possible Bank Holiday if England Win World Cup

Thu, 09 Jul 2026 11:18:21 +0100

The Prime Minister has suggested that an additional bank holiday could be considered if England go on to win the World Cup this month.

England, managed by Thomas Tuchel, face Norway in the quarter-finals on Saturday evening as they continue their bid for international glory. Should they progress, they would still need to navigate a semi-final before reaching the final, which is scheduled to take place in New Jersey on 19 July.

Speaking about the prospect of a national celebration should England lift the trophy, Sir Keir Starmer stopped short of making any firm commitment but indicated the idea was under consideration. Asked whether a World Cup victory could result in an extra bank holiday, the Prime Minister replied:

“On the question of a bank holiday, I think I don’t want to jinx it, but ask me again if we get to the final.”

His comments are likely to fuel speculation that ministers could announce a one-off public holiday if England secure their first World Cup triumph since 1966. It is understood that, in the event of an England victory, the proposed bank holiday would fall on Friday 24 July, giving workers and families an extended weekend to celebrate the achievement. The timing of the tournament also coincides with significant political developments at Westminster. Sir Keir is widely expected to step down as Prime Minister on 20 July, the day after the World Cup final, with Labour leader Andy Burnham anticipated to succeed him. Should England reach the final, it is considered likely that the Prime Minister would attend the match in the United States. Any overseas trip associated with the fixture could potentially affect the timing of the planned transition of power, although no official announcement has been made. For now, however, discussions about a bank holiday remain purely hypothetical. England must first overcome Norway in the quarter-finals and then win both a semi-final and the final before any national celebrations can be planned. With the prospect of World Cup success on the horizon, football supporters will be hoping the Prime Minister is asked that question again in just over a week’s time.

What do you think?

If England were to win the World Cup, should the country celebrate with an extra bank holiday? Supporters argue that a once-in-a-generation sporting achievement would deserve a national day of celebration, bringing communities together and boosting national morale. Critics, however, point out that every additional bank holiday comes at a cost. Businesses, particularly small firms, often face higher wage bills, lost productivity and reduced trading days, while some sectors struggle to absorb the financial impact. So where do you stand? Would an England World Cup victory justify another day off, or is the country already carrying too much economic pressure for an extra bank holiday? Let us know in the comments.

Burnham Set to Become Prime Minister as Carns Rules Out Leadership Bid - NATIONAL NEWS

Thu, 09 Jul 2026 10:32:29 +0100

Andy Burnham appears on course to become Labour leader and Prime Minister later this month after Al Carns confirmed he will not contest the party’s leadership election.

The announcement leaves Burnham, the MP for Makerfield and former Mayor of Greater Manchester, as the overwhelming favourite to succeed Sir Keir Starmer following a series of high-profile withdrawals from the race.

Carns, who resigned from government last month following disagreements over defence spending, had previously suggested he was considering a leadership bid. However, speaking to Sky News on Wednesday evening, he indicated that Labour should avoid a lengthy internal contest and instead unite behind a single candidate. He said the party needed to “get on the boat and row in the same direction” if it was to make the most of the years ahead. Leadership nominations formally opened on Thursday, but Carns acknowledged that he had not secured the backing of the 81 Labour MPs required to reach the ballot paper. He said he had not actively campaigned for support, although he claimed many colleagues had encouraged a broader discussion about Labour’s future direction. Carns argued that a prolonged leadership contest could create unnecessary division within the party at a time of significant international uncertainty. While stepping aside, he called for greater attention to defence, foreign affairs and national resilience, areas he has consistently championed. He also praised Burnham’s record, pointing to his leadership during the Covid pandemic, his handling of the aftermath of the Manchester Arena attack and Greater Manchester’s economic growth. Carns is the latest senior Labour figure to withdraw from leadership speculation. Wes Streeting, the former Health Secretary, and Darren Jones, the Chief Secretary to the Prime Minister, have both also decided not to stand. Streeting had initially suggested he would consider entering any leadership contest, but later threw his support behind Burnham following the latter’s victory in the recent Makerfield by-election. Jones, who had been viewed by some Labour moderates as a potential continuity candidate, likewise declined to run and publicly backed Burnham. With no major challenger emerging, Burnham is widely expected to secure the leadership once the nomination process concludes. The prospect of an uncontested succession has prompted criticism from the Conservatives. Kevin Hollinrake, Conservative Party Chairman, described the situation as a “zombie government” and questioned why the leadership timetable had not been shortened given the apparent absence of serious opposition to Burnham’s candidacy. Despite the outcome appearing largely settled, Labour MPs still have several days to submit nominations before the formal process concludes. Meanwhile, Burnham has begun setting out his priorities for government. Writing in The Times, he pledged to focus a planned £15 billion increase in defence spending on British industry, arguing that investment should support domestic manufacturing and help drive economic regeneration across the country. The former Greater Manchester mayor has also signalled that strengthening Britain’s defence capabilities and industrial base will be central themes of his premiership should he formally take office later this month.

EQUESTRIAN - Wellesbourne rider qualifies for Horse of the Year Show

Thu, 09 Jul 2026 09:00:09 +0100

AN AMATEUR rider from Wellesbourne has qualified for the prestigious Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) in Birmingham this October.

Emma Morrell and Rathnagrew Larry won the SEIB Insurance Brokers Search for a Star qualifier at the Royal Three Counties Show in Malvern, Worcestershire to earn their place at HOYS.

The duo will now go on to compete under the lights of the HOYS arena at the NEC in Birmingham in early October. The pair competed in and won the competitive show cob class to secure their place in Birmingham. And six-year-old horse Larry, owned by Jess Wort, took victory competing at just his third-ever show.

Morrell said: "This result is fantastic. It was a bit of an ask for Larry and the first time he’s been ridden by a ride judge so we’re delighted." Larry's owner Wort added: "We got Larry as a three-year-old from his breeder who he named after himself. "I bought him to hack around as I liked the look of him. I’m now pregnant so was on the lookout for someone to ride him. "Emma is truly bitten by the showing bug, she saw his potential and started riding him in January in fun rides and riding club dressage. "We had no expectations and now six months later we’re off to HOYS."

Two new speed cameras installed on dangerous south Warwickshire road

Thu, 09 Jul 2026 07:00:41 +0100

TWO new speed cameras have been installed on the A46 in south Warwickshire. There were three deaths, eight serious injuries and 22 slight injuries in crashes on the stretch of road between Stratford and Alcester from 2021 to 2025 - classifying it as a ‘high harm route’. The majority of these crashes were found to be caused by road users ‘failing to look properly or failing to judge the other person's path or speed. Insp Dave Valente, lead for the Warwickshire Road Safety Partnership, said:“Reducing excess speed in Warwickshire is a priority for us, because more than half of all fatal collisions nationally involve speed as a contributing factor. "Working alongside our communities through initiatives like Community Speed Watch, as well as our mobile enforcement teams, we use a visible presence on our roads to encourage safer speeds and help educate drivers on the law. However, in some high‑risk locations, only a static enforcement device can ensure that speed limits are consistently respected.” Chair of Warwickshire Road Safety Partnership Philip Seccombe continued: “The A46 has been raised by local people as an area of concern for a number of years. We need all drivers to take responsibility for themselves and others’ safety by always staying within the speed limit and driving at an appropriate speed for the conditions. If everyone can do this, our roads will become much safer immediately." Fiona McKenzie, route manager for National Highways, added: “Safety is our main priority and we remain committed to reducing the number of people harmed on our roads. The evidence shows that when drivers reduce their speed, collisions are less likely and serious injuries and fatalities are reduced. Slower speeds help protect not only other motorists but also cyclists and the wider community. "The new cameras will help support our commitment, and we'll continue to work closely with Warwickshire Police and the Road Safety Partnership to monitor safety across the county."

Visit Warwickshire boasts new look website

Wed, 08 Jul 2026 17:00:00 +0100

TOURISTS and residents can now browse the new look Visit Warwickshire website. Not only has the website been refreshed, but it has a distinctive new brand identity. It offers a wealth of ideas and itineraries to help people discover everything the county has to offer, from family-friendly attractions and scenic walks to cycling routes, heritage experiences and cultural highlights. Its new visual identity has been inspired by the county’s rich heritage, culture and natural environment. The bespoke logo incorporates several iconic elements that reflect Warwickshire’s unique story, including a leaf representing the county’s rural landscape, a rugby ball recognising the birthplace of the sport, a hat celebrating Atherstone’s historic hat-making industry and literary and castle-inspired features that reflect Warwickshire’s cultural heritage and landmarks. The website has also been expanded with new and updated content to help visitors plan memorable experiences across the county. Warwickshire County Council’s economy spokesperson Coun Rob Howard said: “Warwickshire is home to an incredible range of attractions, landscapes and experiences, and our refreshed Visit Warwickshire brand and website make it easier than ever for people to discover them. “Our visitor economy is strengthening with over 15.5 million visitors in 2024, this brings with it economic support for our local businesses, towns and highstreets and we want to continue making Warwickshire a place for residents and visitors to enjoy and explore.” Visit visit.warwickshire.gov.uk/ to take a look.

WMAS celebrates International Paramedics Day

Wed, 08 Jul 2026 16:54:00 +0100

WEST Midlands Ambulance Service (WMAS) is celebrating the dedication, compassion and diverse skillset of Trust paramedics, this International Paramedics Day by highlighting the many different roles our paramedics perform across the Trust.

While many people associate paramedics with responding to 999 emergencies in ambulances, the profession has evolved significantly.

Today, paramedics use their expertise in a wide range of clinical, operational and leadership roles, ensuring patients receive the care they need and deserve. Across WMAS, paramedics can be found responding to life-threatening emergencies, providing advanced care in specialist teams. To mark International Paramedics Day, WMAS has produced a video featuring paramedics from across the organisation completing the sentence: “I’m a paramedic. I help people by…”

Trust Chief Executive, Anthony Marsh, said: “International Paramedics Day is an opportunity to recognise the professionalism, expertise and dedication of paramedics across our Trust. “While many people see the incredible work our frontline crews do every day, paramedics contribute in so many other ways behind the scenes and across our organisation. “From responding to critically ill patients to providing clinical advice in our Emergency Operations Centre, educating future clinicians and leading improvements in patient care, paramedics play a vital role in ensuring our communities receive the highest standard of care. “Thank you to every one of our paramedics for their unwavering commitment to our patients.”

International Paramedics Day is celebrated annually on July 8 and recognises the vital contribution paramedics make to healthcare systems around the world. The day also celebrates the breadth of the profession and the positive impact paramedics have on patients, families and communities every single day.

Mary Arden's Farm to hold two community open days this summer

Wed, 08 Jul 2026 14:00:00 +0100

MARY Arden’s Farm is throwing open its gates for two community days this summer. Families will have the opportunity to visit the farm and historic property in Wilmcote as well as participate in Tudor games on Saturday July 18 and Saturday August 15. The Community Open Days have this year been supported by NFU Mutual. Mary Arden’s Farm is currently a learning centre run by the Trust, ensuring thousands of primary school children from across the UK have meaningful first encounters with Shakespeare. However, the SBT is keen to ensure continued community access to the farm, building on the success of the community days offered in 2025, which saw more than 4,000 people visit. On each of the community days, visitors will be able to enjoy hands-on craft activities, take a tour of Palmer’s Farmhouse, try Tudor games, have a go at archery and meet the Trust’s rare-breed farm animals throughout the day. SBT’s chief executive Rachael North said: “The summer community open days offer a wonderful opportunity to welcome our local community to Mary Arden’s Farm, our dedicated primary education setting. Alongside this, we are committed to delivering a vibrant year-round community programme across all our sites – from walking and talking groups to monthly craft sessions and knit-and-natter meet-ups. Together, these activities help ensure our local communities remain connected to the historic houses that share the story of the Shakespeare family.” Visit tickets.shakespeare.org.uk/events for more details.

Taking to the River Avon for some fun

Wed, 08 Jul 2026 12:00:00 +0100

STRATFORD Boat Club will be having fun on the Avon on Saturday.
The club’s annual Fun Regatta will see 19 crews, with just three hours’ training, compete in a number of ‘side by side’ races in the club’s ‘learn-to-row’ stable boats.
Fun Regatta organiser Adam Franklin said: “We’d like to encourage everybody to come down to the Boat Club or the river to support the crews. It is great to watch as there’s lots of splashing, some crazy outfits and plenty of competitive banter.”
Racing starts at 9am and the victors will be crowned around 4.30am when Stratford mayor Sam McNaught Barrow will present prizes for the winning and the best fancy dressed crew.
Club chairman Dawson Curnock added: “We know that the Fun Regatta is going to be a great day. There is excellent viewing from the Rec, RSC terrace, Bancroft Gardens and especially from the Club grounds where there will be a tea tent, food wagon and bar.”

Major parties refuse to contest Clacton by-election triggered by Farage resignation - NATIONAL NEWS

Wed, 08 Jul 2026 10:15:24 +0100

Labour, the Conservatives, the Liberal Democrats, the Green Party and Restore Britain have all confirmed they will not field candidates in the Clacton by-election called after Reform UK leader Nigel Farage resigned as the constituency’s MP.

Farage announced his resignation on Tuesday amid mounting scrutiny of his personal finances, saying he wanted the “people of Clacton” to judge his conduct in what he called a “people versus the establishment” contest. He said he intends to stand again and win the seat back.

Why Farage resigned Farage is currently the subject of a parliamentary standards investigation over an undeclared £5 million gift from cryptocurrency investor Christopher Harborne, made before the 2024 general election. Under Commons rules, newly elected MPs must declare gifts related to their political activities in the year before election, though purely personal gifts are exempt, a distinction Farage says applies in his case. Farage has described the gift as “the equivalent of a lottery win” and said the money was needed to cover his personal security costs, describing himself as the most physically and verbally attacked public figure / politician of modern times. The resignation followed a Sunday Times report on separate financial support provided to Farage by long-time ally George Cottrell before the 2024 election, including funding for security staff and social media work. Farage told reporters he had “done nothing wrong” and had “not misused public money.” He also said press treatment of his daughter, after a newspaper published details of where she lives, was the final straw prompting his decision to quit. The standards inquiry has been paused during the by-election but could resume if Farage is re-elected. Cross-party reaction Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper described the by-election as a “political tantrum” and a stunt designed to distract from the finance row. Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch called it a “fake election,” while her party said it would not lend legitimacy to a contest she characterised as a distraction tactic. The Liberal Democrats went further, urging the government to block Farage’s resignation altogether until the standards investigation concludes, arguing voters need “all the facts” before casting ballots. The Green Party said local members had independently decided not to contest the seat. Reform UK rejected the criticism. Home affairs spokesman Zia Yusuf said rival parties were “running scared,” while Farage argued the vote would let voters have their say directly on his record. Rupert Lowe’s Restore Britain, formed after Lowe was suspended from Reform, said it would sit out this contest but intends to stand if a second by-election is triggered once the standards investigation concludes, a scenario the party said it expects. Who is standing With all major parties abstaining, comedian Jon Harvey, running under his long-standing satirical persona Count Binface, has confirmed his candidacy. He has pledged a manifesto that includes capping the price of 99 Flakes ice creams at 99p. Financial questions over the vote By-elections are normally funded from central government, with a 2016 government estimate putting typical costs at over £228,000 — likely higher today. Farage said Reform had offered to cover the cost itself. Conservative peer and elections expert Lord Hayward said doing so would breach the legal principle that election administration must be kept separate from party campaigning, and that such a payment “would be illegal.” Separately, it has emerged that Cottrell and his mother made substantial payments, an £80,000 loan and a £1 million donation, to a company and think tank linked to Reform deputy leader Richard Tice. Both payments were flagged to the National Crime Agency under its routine suspicious activity reporting scheme. Tice has asked the NCA to investigate whether it leaked his private financial details to the press, which the agency says it can neither confirm nor deny. Farage won Clacton in 2024 with a majority of more than 8,000 over the Conservatives, with Labour third. Under parliamentary rules, the by-election could be held as early as August.

The traditions that define Wimbledon

Wed, 08 Jul 2026 09:59:22 +0100

WIMBLEDON has kept many of its customs for well over a century, and that continuity is a large part of why the tournament stands apart. From the dress code to the food, the final at the All England Club looks much as it did decades ago. Those traditions hold even as the modern side of the event grows. By the second week, the Wimbledon odds 2026 and the global coverage sit alongside customs that date back to the 1800s. Few sporting events balance the old and the new quite like this. In this article, we run through the traditions that give Wimbledon its identity. All in white The all-white clothing rule is the strictest in tennis. Players must wear almost entirely white kit, with off-white and cream not accepted. The rule dates back to the Victorian era, when visible sweat was frowned upon, and it has caused the odd dispute over the years. The code covers shoes and undergarments too, and players have occasionally been asked to change items that showed too much colour. It remains one of the clearest markers of the tournament. There is an exception for female players, however. In 2023, female players were given permission to wear dark coloured shorts underneath their traditional all-white outfits to make them feel more comfortable, especially during menstrual cycles. Strawberries and cream Strawberries and cream have been served at Wimbledon since the early days of the Championships. Spectators get through around 2 million strawberries across the fortnight, served with thousands of litres of cream. The fruit is grown in Kent and delivered to the grounds each morning of play. The pairing is now as closely linked to the event as the tennis. The grass and the setting Wimbledon is the only Grand Slam still played on grass, the surface the sport began on. The courts are cut to a set height and reseeded each year, using a hard-wearing ryegrass chosen to cope with two weeks of heavy use. Combined with the low-key advertising, the green setting gives the final a look that the other majors cannot match. Royal patronage The All England Club has a long tie to the royal family, and a senior royal usually presents the trophies on finals weekend. The royal box on Centre Court seats invited guests throughout the fortnight, another custom that marks the tournament out from the other three Grand Slams. The trophies The men's champion lifts the Gentlemen's Singles Trophy, a silver gilt cup awarded since 1887 and topped with a small gold pineapple. The women's champion receives the Venus Rosewater Dish, a silver salver first presented in 1886. Both are handed over on Centre Court at the close of the final. The Queue Few major tournaments still sell same-day tickets the way Wimbledon does. The Queue, written with a capital Q by the club, lets fans camp overnight for the chance to buy entry on the day. It is one of the last links to the event's amateur past, and the act of queuing has become part of the Wimbledon experience for many fans. These customs are why the closing weekend feels different from any other final in the sport. Form and the tennis odds draw plenty of attention, but the setting and its traditions are what give the occasion its lasting pull, and what keep drawing fans back to south-west London each summer. Article by Craig Linton

FOOTBALL - Kyle Finn at the double as Leamington beat Sutton Coldfield Town in pre-season

Wed, 08 Jul 2026 09:00:21 +0100

KYLE Finn netted a brace as Leamington secured a second successive pre-season victory with a 3-1 win at Sutton Coldfield Town.

Finn scored twice for the Brakes either side of Callum Cockerill-Mollett's debut goal as Leamington triumphed at Coles Lane.

Brakes boss Scott Easterlow missed the game with the birth of his first child with wife Hayley imminent. Leamington handed first starts to summer signings Jahdahn Fridye-Harper and Cockerill-Mollett with four trialists also included in the starting line-up. The Brakes took the lead after just four minutes when the Sutton goalkeeper picked up a backpass and a trialist nudged the resulting free-kick into the path of Finn who fired into an empty net. And Leamington doubled their lead before the break as Cockerill-Mollett powered Finn's corner from the right into the net to put the Brakes in command. Finn doubled his tally for the game eight minutes after the interval when he swept home Cockerill-Mollett's low ball in from the left. Sutton reduced the deficit with 15 minutes left to play as James McGrady fired a low volley into the corner of the net. However, despite a raft of second-half changes, the Brakes comfortably saw out the game under the guidance of coaches Callum and Gary Ingram. Leamington continue their pre-season campaign against Walsall on Saturday, July 11 with kick-off at 3pm at the Your Co-op Community Stadium.

Warwickshire's police commissioner steps into the ring at Cleary's Boxing

Wed, 08 Jul 2026 07:00:11 +0100

POLICE and Crime Commissioner Philip Seccombe visited Cleary’s Boxing to see the knockout opportunity it is proving for Warwickshire's youngsters. The PCC-backed Boxing for Change programme supports young people on the edge of offending or ASB to build confidence, discipline and resilience through structured physical activity and mentoring, which boxing can provide. These sessions offer a positive routine, improve physical wellbeing and give participants a sense of achievement through structured training. Alongside this, one‑to‑one mentoring will focus on setting personal goals, strengthening decision-making and supporting progress in education, training or employment. During his visit, the commissioner was able to see how the volunteer-led community organisation, based in Leamington, is providing opportunities for people of all ages and abilities to engage in boxing, fitness and personal development. He also had the chance to speak to some young athletes who are hoping to make it big in the coming years. Serena Mali and Jaya Kalsi are two of the country's most promising young amateur boxers and proud representatives of Cleary's Boxing CIC. They have recently been offered places on GB Boxing's Future Olympic Medal Strategy (FOMS) Programme, part of Team GB's pathway towards the Brisbane 2032 Olympic Games. Aman Kumar is one of Cleary's Boxing CIC's standout athletes and recently added another major accolade to his growing boxing career by securing his second gold medal at the prestigious Haringey Box Cup, Europe's largest and most renowned amateur boxing tournament. Edwin Cleary, a former professional boxer has dedicated decades to developing young talent and creating opportunities within the local community. Through his leadership, Cleary's Boxing has grown into one of the region's leading community boxing clubs, producing national champions, international representatives and future Olympic prospects while maintaining a strong focus on inclusion, wellbeing and community engagement. Mr Seccombe said: “It is great to see how Ed and the team at Cleary’s Boxing are committed to both producing future athletes which young people across Warwickshire can aspire to emulate, as well as providing outlets to support those who may benefit from the structure and mentoring which boxing can provide. “My thanks and best of luck to Serena, Jaya and Aman in their future ambitions. They are a testament to the dedication and support offered by Cleary’s Boxing, which other young people from across the county and beyond can benefit from.”

Summer holidays include civil war re-enactment in Warwick

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 17:00:00 +0100

HISTORY enthusiasts are being invited to step back in time for the first English Civil War re-enactment to be hosted at St John’s House in Warwick Visitors will meet the Worcester Reenactors and explore an authentic encampment on Saturday August 8 and Sunday August 9. The weekend will feature drill displays, musket demonstrations, traditional crafts and living history sessions, offering an insight into the lives of parliamentary soldiers and civilians. Guests can also explore the historic house, with period rooms, exhibitions and stories from the Civil War era. It comes as part of a whole summer of events in Warwick. St John’s House will once again be transformed into an imaginative Playhouse, offering children and families a unique opportunity to explore themed experiences throughout the historic house and its gardens. Young visitors can take part in a wide range of activities including crafts, messy play, story time, creative building, outdoor games and dressing up. Meanwhile, Market Hall Museum will be hosting drop-in activities including an Art Day with artist Darrell Wakelam and a themed ‘Blood, Guts and Gore’ Medicine Day. And at St Nicholas Park, families can take part in free activities at Museum in the Park. Warwickshire Libraries will also be there with activities and details of their summer reading challenge. Visit www.warwickshire.gov.uk/heritageboxoffice for more information.

Warwick district residents advised to put their bins out early this week

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 15:22:48 +0100

RESIDENTS across the district are advised to put their bins out early due to the hot weather. Warwick District Council’s waste collection teams will begin their rounds at 5am for the remainder of this week (July 8 to July 10 ). People are advised to put their refuse, recycling, garden and food waste bins and containers out the evening before their collection or no later than 5am on the morning of their collection. With amber weather warnings in place for the area in the coming days, this is to help the council’s crews and vehicles cope in the extreme heat and ensure that they’re able to safely complete the scheduled collections.

What Changes to the UK iGaming Scene Have Been Impactful in 2026 So Far?

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 15:00:21 +0100

ACCORDING to a recent study, the value of the European gambling industry has been rising with a CAGR of 5.32% since 2025. Just last year, the total digital gambling revenue reached over $58 billion, and that goes some way to demonstrating the expansion and importance of the region in the global industry. Out of all the European markets, though, the UK is perhaps the most significant. Estimates show that 44% of the entire adult population in the UK participates in online gaming at least once per month, and with new developments happening almost monthly, that number is only growing – indeed, the UK market is worth approximately $28 billion, with projections for it to reach a market volume of $33 billion by 2030. So what kind of developments are we talking about, and how do they help to bring new players on board and make the overall landscape of iGaming a more accessible space? Changes to the UK iGaming Scene If we’re looking at it broadly, there are significant changes from both a legislative and technological point of view. The Gambling Act Review White Paper, for instance, was published in 2023, and has led directly to many major 2026 changes, including affordability checks, the increase of Remote Gaming Duty to 40%, and statutory stake limits on online slots. This has ultimately strengthened player protections, pushing casinos into adopting stricter compliance measures and ensuring players are fully safeguarded and informed. A safer, better-regulated landscape leads to greater consumer trust, and so it’s only natural that it has brought in newcomers – perhaps players who wouldn’t otherwise have participated due to the lack of these safeguards – and created a more welcoming atmosphere. New users will visit essential resources like https://www.casinotopsonline.co.uk/ to ensure they understand not only the landscape, but what specific operators can offer within that landscape and what is trustworthy about those operators, too. From a technological point of view, the most impactful changes are the ones that have improved accessibility and user experience. AI-Powered Personalisation Even if you’re sick of hearing about AI, there’s no doubt that it’s been transformational for the iGaming industry this year. Across the board, online casinos are increasingly using the tech to personalise everything from game recommendations to bonuses and loyalty rewards, meaning that players who prefer certain genres or betting styles can receive tailored promotions and suggestions – and have a better online experience because of it. AI also helps operators identify risky gambling behavior earlier, which improves responsible gaming measures and bolsters the consumer-protection framework that has been set out by the legislation mentioned earlier. Resource sites filter operators according to features, bonuses, and reputation, rather than their underlying software infrastructure – but it’s clear that the tech is becoming increasingly widespread across the market. As competition intensifies, of course, casinos are under pressure to create experiences that feel smoother and smarter, and AI is currently the most effective tool for achieving that. Frictionless Payments Frictionless payments are becoming standard practice across many industries, not just iGaming, but with payments and withdrawals being crucial to the online casino experience, it’s become just as crucial for operators to adopt them. In 2026, open banking APIs and the integration of modern fintech systems have dramatically sped up deposits, withdrawals, and identity verification, working to streamline transactions and reduce unnecessary delays. Indeed, many players can now move money almost instantly, while some casinos also use embedded KYC and AML checks to reduce fraud and comply with those stricter UK regulations. As a player, you want to know that your financial information is safe, and that any time you cash out, the process will be as smooth and fast as possible. In many ways, it’s become one of the biggest competitive advantages in the industry – even if a casino’s gaming library, bonuses, and user interface are strong, if the payment processes take just a little longer than a competitor’s, it’s likely that users will choose the latter over the former. Blockchain Infrastructure This last change is still developing in the regulated UK market, but even though it’s in its early stages, there are many investors in the crypto market, and blockchain tech is making a big impact. For those unaware, blockchain is a decentralised digital ledger system, whereby transactions are recorded securely across a distributed network rather than in a single central location. In an iGaming context, then, the tech can be used to increase transparency and security, and ultimately influence everything from payment systems and loyalty schemes to transaction verification and fraud prevention. Some operators are also experimenting with tokenised rewards – rewards that exist as digital assets – crypto wallets – allowing players to store and transfer digital currencies – and smart-contract automation – improving trust, speeding up payouts, and reducing any payment disputes. As time moves on – and with casinos utilising blockchain tech already experiencing the benefits – we can expect more platforms to get on board, potentially leading to an iGaming scene that is entirely digitally integrated and decentralised. For now, however, the changes described are making their own observable impact in the market, changing the way we access and interact with the online casinos we’ve come to know. Article written by Lucy Roberts

Nigel Farage resigns as MP to trigger Clacton by-election - NATIONAL NEWS

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 14:57:51 +0100

Nigel Farage has resigned as an MP, forcing a by-election in his Clacton constituency that he intends to contest himself, as he seeks to head off mounting criticism over undeclared financial support.

The Reform UK leader made the announcement in a video statement on Tuesday, insisting he had “done nothing wrong” and had “not broken the law in any way at all.” He said he had decided to let voters in Clacton settle the matter, framing the contest as “a people versus the establishment by-election.”

Mr Farage is currently the subject of a parliamentary standards investigation over a £5 million gift he received from cryptocurrency entrepreneur Christopher Harborne before he was elected in 2024. He is also facing separate scrutiny over financial support from George Cottrell, a longstanding associate who was convicted of wire fraud in the United States in 2017. Reports have alleged that Cottrell funded security and staffing for Mr Farage in the year before the last general election, including covering the cost of a rented property near Buckingham Palace. Under Commons rules, new MPs are required to declare gifts worth more than £300 received in the preceding year, with some exceptions. Labour has asked the Electoral Commission to examine whether the support should have been declared, while the Liberal Democrats have called for a formal parliamentary standards inquiry. Mr Farage has dismissed the scrutiny as politically motivated, describing the standards process as “now being used as a political tool.” He also accused the media, and The Times in particular, of endangering his family after a photograph of his daughter’s home was published, saying he had “never been angrier” and would “not tolerate intimidation” of his relatives. Mr Farage won Clacton in 2024 with a majority of 8,451, and Reform UK has continued to lead national opinion polls in the time since. He has ruled out stepping down as party leader. The timing places the by-election against a turbulent backdrop in Westminster. Andy Burnham, the former mayor of Greater Manchester, returned to the Commons after winning the Makerfield by-election in June and is the sole declared candidate to succeed Sir Keir Starmer as Labour leader, following Starmer’s announcement that he would resign once a successor is chosen. Burnham is expected to become prime minister within the next fortnight if no rival challenger emerges, meaning the Clacton contest is likely to unfold just as a new Labour government takes shape.

CRICKET - Clarke century propels Norton Lindsey to dramatic 13-run win against Kineton

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 12:00:29 +0100

HARRY Clarke's century propelled Norton Lindsey CC to a dramatic 13-run victory against Kineton 2nds.

Opener Clarke starred with the bat and hit 18 boundaries en route to a century as Norton posted 271 all out at Wolverton Road.

And Kineton looked well-placed to chase down the total as Ricardo Rebelo and Nick Briggs both scored half-centuries in the away side's top order. However, only three other Kineton batters reached double figures as a late burst from Tom Wilcox and Andrew Dellow secured a narrow victory for the home side. The result means Norton Lindsey sit second on the Cotswold Hills League First Division table. Norton won the toss and elected to bat as Clarke (105 not out) and Joe Williamson (26) put on 54 runs for the first wicket. Thomas Falkingham (1-39) eventually made the breakthrough before Simba Mudimo (9) and Wilcox (5) departed cheaply to the bowling of Steven Dawber (2-30). Clarke found support at the crease from Matthew Edwards (31) as the pair combined for a 78-run fourth-wicket stand. However, Clarke eventually fell as Lee Riley (4-55) bowled the Norton opener who had already reached a century. Both Dellow (20) and Mati Mafuwa (21) added useful runs to push Norton's total to 271 all out as Josh Windebank (2-35) took a couple of late wickets for Kineton. In reply, Kineton opener Briggs (63) and Rebelo (77) punished the Norton attack in a strong second-wicket partnership after Steven Bliwert (1-37) accounted for Cormac Thompson (0). However, Mudimo (2-44) turned the game in Norton's favour when he had Briggs stumped and ran out Rebelo to break up the partnership. And Wilcox (3-20) ran out Elliott Ferris (23) before taking the crucial wicket of Fraser Lindsay (25) which sparked a Kineton collapse. Wilcox and Dellow (2-24) combined to clean up the Kineton tail with the visitors all out for 258 in 43.1 overs as Norton claimed a 13-run victory.

Elsewhere, Norton's second XI secured a 27-run victory away at Kenilworth 3rds at Harbury Rugby Club.

Norton won the toss and elected to bat only to lose opener Mark White (0) to a two-ball duck while Malcolm Henchley (0) soon followed as the visitors slipped to 1-2. However, Jake Rushton (84) and Toby White (76) combined for a 165-run third-wicket stand as the pair recorded a collective 26 boundaries. And Aryan Khosla (19 not out) added useful runs while 18 extras helped Norton close on 203-5 at the end of their 50 overs. Kenilworth made a strong start in reply as openers Dhruv Vyas (77) and Sam Leach (36) put on 72 runs for the first wicket. Steve Dellow (1-30) removed Leach to break up the partnership while only two of Kenilworth's remaining batters managed double figures. And further wickets from T White (3-40), Reichana Roberts (2-47), Martin Hall (1-29) and Steven Webber (1-16) saw Norton restrict Kenilworth to 176-8. Norton are next in action against Henley-in-Arden on Saturday, July 11 with play to begin at 12.30pm at Henley Sports and Social Club.

South Warwickshire residents called to take part in housing survey

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 12:00:00 +0100

PEOPLE are being asked their views on housing in south Warwickshire. Warwick and Stratford District Councils are seeking feedback from the public as they set out their vision and priorities for housing across the area through a new Housing and Homelessness Strategy. The strategy will consider future housing need and development, the quality of homes and neighbourhoods, and the support people may need to remain in their current home or move to more suitable accommodation. It will also explore the range of homes available and the role of landlords in both the private and social housing sectors. In order to gain the views of residents a public survey has been launched. WDC’s housing spokesperson Coun Jess Melrose said: “We want to hear from people living in the local area and understand the housing issues that matter the most to them. It would therefore be great if as many residents as possible from could take a few minutes to complete the questionnaire.” The Housing Strategy survey can be completed online with paper copies available at Leamington Town Hall and the Royal Pump Rooms Customer Services Hub. Visit www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/E2E747 to complete the survey. The deadline for submissions is Tuesday August 11.

Man who sexually abused child jailed

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 10:59:39 +0100

A FORMER south Warwickshire man who sexually abused a child has been jailed for six years after detectives raided his home and uncovered a raft of evidence against him.
Benjamin Stafford – who was living in Bidford at that time – was found in possession of indecent images of children.
Detectives seized his devices and uncovered hundreds of extreme images together with evidence the 34-year-old he had sexually abused a child.
Stafford, who now lives in Pershore in Worcestershire, gave two no-comment interviews, but detectives built such a strong case against him that he ultimately pleaded guilty to assaulting a child under 13 by touching, making indecent photographs of a child, taking indecent photographs of a child, possession of an extreme images of an animals, possession of a prohibited images of a child, attempting to engage in sexual communication with a child and distributing indecent photographs of a child.

CRICKET - Wigley hits unbeaten century as Leamington cruise to victory against Milford Hall

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 09:00:54 +0100

JONATHAN Wigley hit an unbeaten century as Leamington CC cruised to a 65-run victory against Milford Hall.

Wigley hit 17 boundaries in a 154-ball knock with the Milford Hall attack unable to remove the Leamington captain from the crease at Main Road.

Leamington closed on 211-9 and bowled Milford out for 146 in reply as Jason Jakeman, Archie Walker and Shailan Srikanthan all took three wickets apiece. The result means Leamington sit sixth in the Birmingham and District League Premier Division Two table. Leamington won the toss and elected to bat only to lose opener Harrison Smith (1) cheaply in the fourth over. However, Wigley (121 not out) held the innings together and had support at the crease from Jacob Sargeant (24) and James Hawkins (15). Despite slipping to 128-7, Wigley guided Leamington beyond the 200-run mark despite the best efforts of Yohan Liyanage (4-38). Milford struggled with the bat in reply as the home side slumped to 74-6 at the end of the 23rd over. None of Milford's first six batters reached the 20-run mark as Walker (3-32) and also Srikanthan (3-36) did the damage with the ball. A solid seventh-wicket partnership between Will Davis (30) and Harry Trubshaw (20) boosted the home side's total. However, Jakeman (3-17) broke up the partnership and accounted for Milford's tail order as Leamington bowled the hosts out in 42.2 overs to claim a 65-run success. Leamington are next in action against Stourbridge on Saturday, July 11 with play to begin at 12pm(midday) at Arlington Avenue.

Banks told to improve access to basic accounts for vulnerable customers - NATIONAL NEWS

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 07:45:16 +0100

Some of the UK’s largest banks and building societies have agreed to make it easier for vulnerable people to access basic bank accounts after a review by the financial regulator found many customers were being let down.

The UK’s Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) said some banks had failed to properly support people facing homelessness, financial hardship or other vulnerable circumstances, with some customers being directed towards unsuitable online applications instead of being offered a basic bank account.

Basic bank accounts are designed to provide essential banking services for people who may struggle to open a standard current account. They are free to use, do not include an overdraft facility and allow customers to receive wages and benefits, make payments by debit card and set up direct debits and standing orders. More than four million people across the UK currently hold a basic bank account. The accounts are offered by major banking groups including Barclays, The Co-operative Bank, HSBC UK, Lloyds Banking Group, Nationwide Building Society, NatWest Group, Santander UK, TSB Bank and Virgin Money UK. Basic accounts are available to people who may have a poor credit history, are bankrupt or are on a formal debt repayment plan. Some providers also work with charities to help people without a fixed address verify their identity and open an account. However, an FCA mystery shopping exercise found significant shortcomings in how some customers were treated. The regulator carried out 298 interactions with banks and building societies, both in branches and over the telephone. Just 28 per cent of experiences were rated as good or very good, while 38 per cent were judged fair. A total of 20 per cent were rated poor and 14 per cent very poor. Among the concerns identified were failures to offer basic bank accounts to customers who appeared eligible, particularly people without a permanent address. The FCA also found some vulnerable customers were encouraged to apply online for products that were not suitable for their circumstances. Following discussions with the regulator, the nine providers of basic bank accounts have agreed to improve their processes. The banks have committed to helping customers access the correct account at the first attempt, making it easier for people without standard identification documents or a fixed address to open an account, and ensuring alternatives are available for vulnerable customers who may struggle with online applications. Emad Aladhal, director of retail banking at the FCA, said bank accounts play a vital role in financial inclusion and that the regulator wanted to ensure people who would benefit most from basic accounts were not being excluded. Peter Tyler, director of personal banking at UK Finance, said the banking industry recognised that more could be done to deliver consistent outcomes for customers. He highlighted the Breaking the Cycle initiative, a scheme involving banks and housing charity Shelter, which helps people with no fixed address gain access to banking services. The FCA said it will continue to monitor progress as banks implement the agreed improvements.

Warwick community centre takes massive step closer to reality

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 07:00:00 +0100

A MASSIVE £300,000 grant has taken Warwick’s new community centre a step closer to reality. Priory Pools Community Centre has been awarded the cash from The National Lottery Community Fund, taking the total raised for the project to £2.1 million. The award marks a huge milestone for the charity, bringing the long-awaited vision of a purpose-built community centre for the Packmores Estate significantly closer to reality. The project has been driven by residents, volunteers and trustees who have worked tirelessly over the past few years to turn what many believed was an impossible dream into a reality. The charity is now completing its competitive tender process. It expects to appoint a construction contractor by the end of July, with the ambition of starting work on site in September, subject to securing the remaining funding required. Priory Pools Community Centre has one final major fundraising campaign underway through the Aviva Community Fund, which aims to raise £50,000 towards the centre’s solar panels, air source heat pump system and low-energy lighting. Thanks to Aviva’s match-funding programme, every individual donation of up to £250 is currently being doubled, helping supporters make twice the impact. Reaching the £50,000 target would help complete the funding package needed to begin construction while ensuring the building is as environmentally sustainable and affordable to operate as possible. The renewable energy systems will reduce future running costs, allowing more income to be invested in activities, services and support for residents. Janette Eslick, trustee and lead fundraiser for Priory Pools Community Centre, said: “This is an incredible moment for everyone who has believed in this project. For many years people said a new community centre for Packmores would never happen, but today we are celebrating one of the biggest milestones in our journey. Raising £2.1 million is a huge achievement and is only possible because of the generosity of funders, local businesses, community organisations, volunteers and hundreds of local people who have supported us along the way.” Previous donations include £300,000 from Warwickshire County Council’s Social Fabric Fund, £250,000 from Warwick District Council, £300,000 from King Henry VIII Endowed Trust, and other large contributions from The Warwick and Budbrooke Anglican Churches Charity, The Charity of Thomas Oken and Nicholas Eyffler, Warwick Relief in Need, Warwick United Charities, Warwick Provident Dispensary, 29th May 1961 Charitable Trust, and Warwick Rotary Club. The new £2.5 million community centre will provide a welcoming, accessible space for people of all ages, with a large community hall, cafe, food pantry, youth facilities, meeting rooms and outdoor spaces. It will become a hub for community activities, clubs and societies, health and wellbeing programmes, advice services, volunteering and social enterprise, helping tackle isolation, improve opportunities and strengthen community life. Visit www.priorypoolscc.org for more details.

NHS Consultants Threaten Strikes as Union Demands £166,000 Pay and Shorter Working Week - NATIONAL NEWS

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 06:19:00 +0100

NHS consultants have secured a mandate for industrial action after voting in favour of strike action in an escalating dispute over pay and working conditions.

The ballot, organised by the British Medical Association (BMA), saw 76 per cent of participating consultants back strikes on a turnout of 51.5 per cent. The result gives senior doctors the ability to call industrial action over the next 12 months with relatively short notice.

The dispute centres on demands for higher pay and reduced working hours. The BMA argues that consultant pay has fallen in real terms since 2008 and is calling for further improvements to salaries and contracts. Critics, however, have accused senior doctors of holding taxpayers and patients to ransom after years of substantial pay increases and previous settlements intended to resolve the dispute. Health ministers have pointed out that consultants are among the highest-paid public sector employees in the country. The average consultant is expected to earn more than £152,000 this year, while the most experienced consultants can earn considerably more through additional duties and private practice. The current starting salary for a newly appointed consultant exceeds £113,000, rising through a series of pay increments to more than £150,000 for the most senior consultants in England. In Wales, equivalent salaries can exceed £166,000. The latest threat of industrial action comes despite consultants agreeing a pay deal with the Government in 2024 worth up to £20,000 a year for some doctors following a previous wave of strikes. The Conservatives seized on the ballot result to renew calls for tougher restrictions on industrial action in essential public services. Shadow Health Secretary Stuart Andrew said Labour had failed to stand up to what he described as a “militant” BMA and warned that patients would once again face uncertainty and disruption. The Conservatives have said they would legislate to ban doctors’ strikes entirely if returned to government, arguing that healthcare workers should be treated in a similar way to police officers, who are prohibited by law from taking industrial action because of their critical public safety role. The prospect of further NHS strikes is likely to raise concerns among patients, many of whom are still facing lengthy waiting lists following years of disruption caused by industrial action across the health service. BMA consultants committee co-chairs Dr Helen Neary and Dr Shanu Datta defended the ballot result, saying consultants were no longer willing to tolerate what they described as an erosion of their pay and professional status. They argued that improving pay and conditions was necessary to retain experienced doctors within the NHS and avoid an exodus of senior clinicians from the profession. No strike dates have yet been announced, but the union now has the authority to call industrial action if negotiations with the Government fail to produce a settlement. LET US KNOW WHAT YOU THINK Should doctors be treated like police officers, members of the armed forces and other emergency service personnel, who are not permitted to strike? Or do you believe NHS doctors deserve a further pay rise and should retain the right to take industrial action? Write in the comments or email Claire.Bullivant@BullivantMedia.com with your views.

Hundreds of Tik Tok linked crimes recorded in Warwickshire

Mon, 06 Jul 2026 17:00:00 +0100

MORE than 300 TikTok-related crimes have been recorded across Warwickshire, new data reveals. Figures obtained through a Freedom of Information request by JF Law have uncovered the scale of regional offences documented between 2023 and 2025. The platform was highlighted within hundreds of local logs. While the application is cited in each report, it does not mean the platform directly caused the crimes. It only shows the app was mentioned in the context of the recorded offence. The figures come as the Labour Government imposed a sweeping social media ban targeted at children – following in the footsteps of Australia. A total of 323 TikTok-related incidents were recorded by Warwickshire Police over the 36 months. Crimes recorded included 30 sexual offences across Warwickshire, including severe allegations of rape. Other reports included public order offences, theft, arson, burglary, vehicle offences, drug offences, and possession of weapons. The statistics reveal annual trends within the county. Warwickshire Police logged 100 crimes in 2023, which dropped slightly to 96 in 2024, before climbing to 127 last year. Nuneaton and Bedworth Borough was the epicentre of the digital crime wave in the county, accumulating 108 total offences. Warwick district emerged as the second highest area with 75 incidents, Stratford district recorded 57 total cases, Rugby borough registered 44 offences and North Warwickshire district recorded 33. The victim demographics show children under the age of 13 were victimised in 36 cases, while teenagers aged 13 to 17 made up 74 victims. “The sheer volume of these cases is a stark warning to parents and authorities alike,” said Ellie Lamey, a Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority (CICA) specialist at JF Law. “We are seeing everyday platforms being weaponised by predators to target our youngest and most vulnerable, turning what should be a harmless online space into a digital hunting ground. “The trauma inflicted by cyber-stalking, harassment, and online-facilitated abuse has profound, real-world consequences that can completely shatter a family’s sense of security.” “It is crucial that victims know there are concrete legal avenues available to fight back. Nobody should have to navigate this nightmare in silence, and we are committed to helping survivors secure the protection, justice, and support they need to move forward.”

Top Online Games for Esports Betting Fans in 2026

Mon, 06 Jul 2026 15:33:56 +0100

ESPORTS is no longer a side market built around scattered tournaments. Worldwide esports revenue is projected to reach US$5.1 billion in 2026, and the strongest games now come with official calendars, global finals and match data that can be tracked round by round. Casino titles such as blackjack Cambodia sit in a different online-gaming category, but esports betting depends on scheduled competition: teams, brackets, maps, drafts, scorelines and event formats. That is why the best games for betting discussion are not just popular. They are organised enough to be read before a match begins. 1. League of Legends Has the Clearest International Calendar League of Legends remains one of the easiest esports titles to follow from a betting-analysis perspective because its international events are structured long before the first champion is locked in. MSI 2026 will take place in Daejeon, South Korea, from 28 June to 12 July, with a calendar that already gives the tournament shape. The Play-In Stage runs from 28 June to 1 July. The Bracket Stage follows from 3–6 July and 8–12 July. The Upper Final is scheduled for 9 July, the Lower Final for 11 July, and the Grand Final for 12 July. That detail matters. A clear schedule lets analysts separate early-stage volatility from late-bracket pressure. A team that survives Play-Ins is not being judged in the same setting as a team entering the final weekend. The format creates different betting questions as the event moves forward: champion pools, side selection, best-of series performance and how teams adapt after one loss. League of Legends also gives viewers a familiar structure. Drafts happen before the action. Objectives arrive at known points. A team can be behind in kills but ahead in map control. That makes live reading richer than a simple scoreline. 2. Counter-Strike 2 Turns Maps Into Market Signals Counter-Strike 2 belongs near the top because its betting discussion is built around maps, economy swings and event brackets. Intel Extreme Masters gives the 2026 calendar real weight. Kraków 2026 is listed for 6–8 February with 24 teams and a US$1.25 million prize pool. Rio 2026 follows from 17–19 April with 16 teams and a US$1 million prize pool. That is not just prize money. It is a sign of event scale. Large LAN tournaments create pressure that online qualifiers cannot fully replicate. Crowd setting, travel rhythm and map veto decisions all become part of the pre-match reading. Counter-Strike 2 also has one of the clearest betting structures. A series can turn on the map pool before the pistol round starts. A team strong on Ancient but weak on Nuke may look different once the veto is complete. In live markets, the economy adds another layer. A lost anti-eco round can change the half. A saved rifle can matter more than one late kill. The game may reward close reading because every map has phases. The early score matters, but the buy state can explain why that score may not hold. 3. Dota 2 Still Builds Around One Annual Peak Dota 2’s biggest 2026 marker is The International, scheduled for 20–23 August at the Oriental Sports Center in Shanghai. For betting analysis, the game remains valuable because the draft can change a match before the lanes begin: comfort heroes, surprise picks and late-game scaling all affect how a series is read. The International adds short-event pressure, where one strong series can lift a team’s market view and one poor draft can make a favourite look far less comfortable. 4. VALORANT Runs on Structure and Momentum VALORANT has become one of the strongest games for betting discussion because its competition is built around official regional and international play. The 2026 VCT schedule and news hub gives the circuit a fixed place to follow match timing, event updates and tournament progression. Several features make the game particularly readable for betting analysis: ● Agent selection provides the first indication of a team's intended strategy. ● Map choice offers another important clue about strengths, weaknesses and preferred play styles. ● Early rounds reveal whether the planned approach is actually working in practice. ● Teams can win individual aim duels yet still appear poorly structured overall. ● Teams that fall behind early can remain dangerous if their utility usage and ultimate economy stay strong. ● Round-based scoring creates clear checkpoints for evaluating momentum during a match. ● Economy decisions often influence future rounds as much as the current scoreline. ● Side switches can significantly alter the flow and texture of a game. For live betting, VALORANT’s round-based format keeps the market moving without making it chaotic. Each half has a clear score, and a 7-5 half does not carry the same meaning on every map. What These Games Have in Common The strongest esports betting titles are not chosen by hype alone. They have calendars, official events, defined formats and enough data to make pre-match discussion meaningful. League of Legends brings global event structure. Counter-Strike 2 brings map vetoes and LAN brackets. Dota 2 brings draft depth around The International. VALORANT brings round-by-round clarity through the VCT. League of Legends Main 2026 signal - MSI 2026 in Daejeon, 28 June–12 July Betting discussion angle - Drafts, bracket stages and best-of series Counter-Strike 2 Main 2026 signal - IEM Kraków and Rio prize-pool events Betting discussion angle - Map vetoes, economy swings and LAN form Dota 2 Main 2026 signal - The International in Shanghai, 20–23 August Betting discussion angle - Draft strategy and late-game scaling VALORANT Main 2026 signal - Official 2026 VCT schedule and event coverage Betting discussion angle - Agent picks, maps and round momentum Access options to tools such as 1xbet download original belong to the product side of esports betting, not the competitive analysis itself. The match reading still comes from official schedules, confirmed formats and what happens inside the server. Esports betting works best when the focus stays on verified competition details, not shortcuts. Results remain uncertain, and responsible betting means treating markets as entertainment rather than a guaranteed outcome. Article written by James Mason

Drug dealer warned not to set up third county line in Warwickshire

Mon, 06 Jul 2026 13:30:15 +0100

A DRUG dealer has been warned not to set up a third county line after his first two were dismantled. Since at least March 11 until 23 June 2025, the Rico and Harry county lines were supplying cocaine and heroin into Leamington and Warwick. A county line is a phone number which is used for the sale of drugs. Mass messages were sent from the phones with messages relating to the sale of drugs. On June 23 2025, after following a number of leads, officers turned up at the house of Louis Steane, aged 30, in Leamington – where the car of Peter Tegede, aged 23, the owner of the line, was parked up outside. When detectives entered the property, Tegede dropped two mobile phones onto the floor, as well as a large quantity of money. Steane was searched and found to be in possession of £6,730 worth of cocaine, crack, and heroin – as well as a phone operating the Harry line. Later that day, Warwickshire Police arrested Jason Rodgers, aged 37, who was another known runner for the line. Steane, Tegede, and Rodgers were charged with possession with intent to supply class A drugs, and Tegede was released on bail with an electronic tag. Despite this, Tegede immediately re-established his drugs line – now called the Rico line – utilising Ross Myles, aged 50, to supply the drugs and to operate the county line at night while Tegede was under curfew. On August 13 2025, officers spotted Tegede walking from Sydenham with a rucksack. Tegede attempted to run, but was quickly arrested, with the search turning up a phone with the Rico line, and £10,700 worth of crack, heroin, and cocaine. On May 1 2026, Tegede, of Theatre Street in Warwick, was jailed for six years and seven months for possession with intent to supply and being concerned with the supply of heroin, cocaine, and crack cocaine, as well as being in possession of the proceeds of criminal conduct – namely, £1,365 in cash. Rodgers, of Spencer Street in Leamington, was jailed for four years and seven months for being concerned in the supply of heroin and crack. On July 1, Steane, of Rugby Road in Leamington, was jailed for six years for possession with intent to supply and being concerned in the supply of heroin and crack cocaine. On June 15, Ross Myles, of Clare Close in Leamington, was jailed for three years for being concerned in the supply of crack and heroin. Investigating officer DC Harvey said “We hope that Tegede will not be foolish enough to attempt a third line when he is released.”

FOOTBALL - Owen Farmer nets hat-trick as Leamington put five past Lye Town in pre-season opener

Mon, 06 Jul 2026 12:00:59 +0100

OWEN Farmer scored a hat-trick as Leamington made the perfect start to pre-season with a dominant 5-1 victory against Lye Town.

Farmer struck twice before the break and later completed the scoring from the penalty spot while Kyle Finn and Nat Kelly also found the net for Scott Easterlow's side.

The game took place at Southam United's Bobby Hancocks Park ground as Brakes boss Easterlow named six of his new signings in the Leamington side along with three trialists. However, the club's only remaining player from the previous campaign put Leamington ahead as Farmer forced a shot past the goalkeeper on the half-hour mark. And Farmer struck again two minutes before half time as the striker slammed a first time shot into the net following a low ball into the box from the right. Debutant Finn added a third goal on the stroke of half time with the Lye goalkeeper only able to parry Dexter Walters' initial effort into the scorer's path. Lye reduced the deficit on 61 minutes as Dan Tozer finished into an empty net after Brakes goalkeeper Jacob Humphries failed to claim a cross. Leamington restored their three-goal cushion on 73 minutes when Kelly rose highest to head in a trialist's corner from the right at the near post. And Farmer completed his hat-trick four minutes later from the spot with an effort down the middle of the goal from 12-yards after a trialist drew a foul in the box.

House sitter stole jewellery from homes in Shipston and Southam

Mon, 06 Jul 2026 12:00:00 +0100

A HOUSE sitter who took valuable jewellery and replaced it with fakes has been jailed. Ariana Rose was last year employed as a house sitter at properties in Shipston and Southam, originally through an online service. The victims, one of whom had initially applauded 40 year-old Rose for her efforts, highlighting she had even made them a meal and a cake for when they returned from holiday, later discovered a number of items missing and some had been replaced with fakes. Items taken from both properties included jewellery exceeding the value of £35,000, a Le Creuset Balti pan, a silver dish, gold-plated Christmas ornaments, and other jewellery items. When the victim in Southam reported missing items to the police, this initiated the force’s investigation into Rose, although she was not linked to the other offences until she was arrested in Lutterworth on November 5 when her hire car was identified and stopped. When Rose, of Finborough Road in London, was arrested, officers discovered photos of stolen items from each of the houses she had looked after on her phone. She had stolen property including jewellery in the car and on her person. A search of Rose’s address in London discovered hundreds of items of suspected stolen property, including war medals, limited-edition books, jewellery, and a CBE medal. These items were linked to a variety of different properties across the country, whose owners had employed Rose’s services as a house sitter. Rose’s initial trial for offences investigated by Warwickshire Police completed on December 5 2025, when she was found guilty of five counts of theft from dwelling. Sentencing was postponed while a second private prosecution took place at Southwark Crown Court, where she was charged with four counts of using a false instrument, six counts of fraud, and perverting the course of public justice. On July 2, Ariana Rose was jailed for five years. Investigating officer DC Stather said: “Rose lived a lavish lifestyle, funded by the things she stole from her victims who trusted her to look after their homes. “These items were mostly highly sentimental and cherished. “We hope that the victims find some comfort now that she has been caught and held accountable for her actions.”

FOOTBALL - Leamington sign former loanee Dexter Walters as Brakes make 11th summer signing

Mon, 06 Jul 2026 09:00:37 +0100

LEAMINGTON have confirmed the signing of Dexter Walters some six years after the winger enjoyed a loan spell with the Brakes.

Walters returns to the Your Co-op Community Stadium on a permanent deal following a spell with Long Eaton United last season.

The 27-year-old previously played 12 games for Leamington on loan from Coventry City in the 2019/20 season.

Walters said: "I loved my time at Leam during my loan spell, and ever since then I’ve wanted to come back. "It feels like the right time, especially with Scotty as manager. "I’ve been looking forward to playing under him for a long time, so I’m excited to get started." Brakes boss, Scott Easterlow added: "Dex is a lad who knows this club well from his time here before, he’s another forward thinking player who will bring a spark at the top end of the pitch. "His trickery and ability to take people on one-v-one will be an exciting watch for the fans."

Walters began his career at Romulus before making the move to Tamworth and spending time on loan at Sutton Coldfield Town. He joined then League One side Coventry as a teenager ahead of the 2018/19 season and made his debut for the Sky Blues in an EFL Trophy game against Forest Green Rovers. Walters spent time on loan at Leamington the following campaign before returning to Tamworth on a permanent basis in 2020/21. He spent time on loan at Mickleover before enjoying spells with Stratford Town, Stourbridge and Bedworth United. Walters spent the 2025/26 season at Long Eaton where he scored eight goals in 38 games in the Northern Premier League Midlands.

Tens of Thousands of Primary School Pupils Risk Future Unemployment, Report Warns - NATIONAL NEWS

Mon, 06 Jul 2026 08:17:00 +0100

Tens of thousands of children currently in their final year of primary school could face periods of unemployment after leaving education unless action is taken to improve standards and better prepare young people for the world of work, according to a new report.

Research published by the think tank the Centre for Social Justice estimates that as many as 40,000 pupils currently in Year 6 are on course to spend at least a year not in employment, education or training (NEET) between the ages of 16 and 24.

The warning comes against a backdrop of growing concern over the number of young people disengaged from both work and education. Recent official figures show that more than one million people aged 16 to 24 are currently classified as NEET across the UK, while youth unemployment remains significantly higher than levels seen before the Covid-19 pandemic. The report argues that a combination of poor educational outcomes, persistent absenteeism and a lack of focus on vocational and technical pathways is leaving many young people ill-equipped for employment. According to the analysis, around one in five children leave primary school without meeting the expected standard in reading. Researchers say this early educational disadvantage can have long-term consequences, affecting attainment throughout secondary education and reducing future employment prospects. The report also highlights the continuing impact of school attendance problems. Government statistics show the overall absence rate in schools during the 2024-25 academic year stood at 6.8 per cent. While this was an improvement on the previous year’s figure of 7.2 per cent, it remains substantially higher than pre-pandemic levels, which were typically below five per cent. Persistent absence also remains elevated. More than 18 per cent of pupils missed at least 10 per cent of their lessons during the year. Before the pandemic, the equivalent figure was generally below 11 per cent. Researchers found that pupils who are persistently absent are almost four times more likely to become NEET at the age of 16 than those with strong attendance records. The findings will be presented to Alan Milburn, who has been tasked by the Government with examining rising levels of economic inactivity among young people. In an interim review published earlier this year, Mr Milburn questioned whether expectations for primary school attainment were sufficiently ambitious. He noted that government targets have historically aimed for around 75 per cent of pupils to leave primary school with age-appropriate literacy and numeracy skills, arguing that this effectively accepts that a significant minority of children will fall behind before they even reach secondary education. The CSJ is calling for reforms designed to improve employment outcomes, including greater emphasis on technical education, stronger links between schools and employers, and additional support for pupils who may not choose the traditional university route. Dan Lilley, a researcher at the think tank, said the education system should place greater value on vocational pathways and ensure that all young people are equipped with the skills needed to succeed in the labour market. The Government has acknowledged the scale of the challenge. A spokesman said too many young people were being left without access to work, education or training opportunities and that ministers were committed to improving outcomes. The report adds to growing concerns about the long-term impact of educational disruption, attendance problems and skills shortages on the UK’s future workforce, with researchers warning that early intervention will be crucial if thousands of young people are to avoid drifting into unemployment in the years ahead.

South Warwickshire construction firm fined after bricklayer's devastating fall

Mon, 06 Jul 2026 07:00:00 +0100

A CONSTRUCTION firm has been fined £16,000 after a bricklayer had an “entirely preventable” fall which left him with lasting mobility and speech impairments. Nicholas Crow, aged 65, suffered head trauma and a stroke after a 2.6 metre fall into a basement lightwell at a house on Binswood Street, in Leamington in July 2024. He now experiences difficulty writing and holding objects, has mobility issues and speech and memory impairments, the Health and Safety Executive said. An investigation by HSE found his employer, Sibbasbridge Limited, failed to put in place suitable and sufficient measures to prevent a fall from height. His wife, Sarah, said the affect on them both was deeply painful. She continued: “Nick was quiet, reliable, and the heart of our very close, extended family. The loss of his steadfast, constant love and support for all of us just cannot be measured. “I experience living grief for the loss of my Nick every single day and I always will. I know Nick is grieving too – he suffers the same desolation and despair that engulf and overwhelm me on bad days.” The gap in the balustrade was created the previous day, when railings were removed to allow old steps to be taken out, a spokesperson for the HSE said. No scaffolding or other protective measures were put in place before employees began work.
HSE inspector Zach Morris said the fall was “entirely preventable”, and no specific risk assessments were carried out. The firm, of Evesham Road, Stratford, pleaded guilty to breaching regulations. In addition to the fine, they were ordered to pay £7,638 in costs at Birmingham Magistrates’ Court on June 29. Mr Morris added: “My thoughts remain with Mr Crow and his family, as he continues to live with the lasting effects of the serious injuries he sustained that day.”

Benefit Fraudsters Cost Taxpayers £25 Million a Week by Hiding Savings and Assets - NATIONAL NEWS

Mon, 06 Jul 2026 06:04:00 +0100

Benefit fraudsters who conceal savings, investments and other financial assets are costing British taxpayers more than £25 million every week, according to official figures that reveal a sharp rise in welfare fraud linked to undeclared capital.

Data published by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) show that an estimated £1.325 billion was wrongly paid out during the 2025-26 financial year to claimants who failed to declare savings and assets that could have affected their entitlement to benefits.

The figure equates to around £25.5 million every week and marks the highest level recorded for this type of fraud. The latest total represents an increase of more than a third compared with four years earlier, when losses linked to hidden savings and capital were estimated at £982 million. The amount also rose by approximately £68 million compared with the previous financial year. Under current benefit rules, claimants with savings above £6,000 may see their payments reduced, while those with capital exceeding £16,000 are generally not eligible for means-tested benefits such as Universal Credit. Despite these rules, official estimates suggest some claimants have continued to receive welfare payments while failing to disclose substantial sums held in bank accounts, investments and other assets. Universal Credit accounted for the largest share of the losses, with more than £1 billion of the estimated fraud linked to hidden capital occurring within the flagship benefit. Housing Benefit and Pension Credit fraud made up much of the remainder. The figures form part of the DWP’s wider assessment of fraud and error across the welfare system. The department estimates that total benefit overpayments caused by fraud and error amounted to £9.5 billion in the financial year ending 2025, equivalent to 3.3 per cent of total benefit expenditure. Fraud alone accounted for a significant proportion of those losses. The DWP calculates its estimates by examining a statistically representative sample of benefit claims. Investigators review claimants’ circumstances, including bank account information and supporting evidence, before applying the findings across the wider benefits system. Around 12,900 claims were sampled for the latest assessment. The issue has become a growing focus for ministers as welfare spending continues to rise. The DWP currently pays benefits to more than 23 million people across Great Britain, making the system a major target for both organised fraud and individuals seeking to exploit loopholes. In response, the Government has introduced tougher anti-fraud measures through the Public Authorities (Fraud, Error and Recovery) Act 2025, which grants investigators greater powers to obtain information from banks and financial institutions when checking eligibility for benefits. The legislation is designed to help identify claimants who have failed to disclose savings and recover money that has been wrongly paid out. The DWP says its Targeted Case Review programme has already examined more than one million Universal Credit claims and identified significant levels of incorrect payments. Parliamentary committees have also noted that new anti-fraud powers are expected to strengthen the department’s ability to tackle welfare abuse and recover public money. Several recent prosecutions have highlighted the scale of the problem. In one case, a woman received more than £40,000 in Universal Credit over several years while holding substantial savings in undisclosed accounts. In another, a claimant continued receiving benefits after inheriting tens of thousands of pounds that should have been declared to authorities. The figures have sparked criticism from opposition politicians, who argue that more needs to be done to tackle abuse of the welfare system. Reform UK MP Lee Anderson said:

“These figures are shocking. While millions of hardworking Britons do the right thing and pay their taxes, benefit fraudsters are laughing all the way to the bank at the public’s expense. “Labour has shown it is incapable of getting a grip on a welfare system that is being exploited on an industrial scale. “Reform UK would crack down on benefit fraud and ensure taxpayers’ money only goes to those who genuinely need it.”

Meanwhile, Conservative Shadow Minister Helen Whately said:

“Billions of pounds of taxpayers’ money is lost to benefit fraud each year. People are abusing and gaming our welfare state, and this undermines public trust in it. “After two years in office, Labour is failing on welfare reform, failing on welfare savings and so far they have been failing to stop welfare fraud too. “The Conservatives would take the hard choices Labour are flunking. We will make £23bn of savings and deliver a welfare state that is there for those who genuinely need it.”

The Government has defended its approach, pointing to new anti-fraud measures introduced through the Public Authorities (Fraud, Error and Recovery) Act 2025, which gives investigators greater powers to obtain information from banks and financial institutions when checking benefit eligibility. Ministers say the measures form part of a wider plan to save £14.6 billion over the next five years by reducing fraud and error across the welfare system. The latest figures suggest undeclared savings and assets have become one of the most significant sources of welfare fraud in Britain. With losses now exceeding £1.3 billion a year, pressure is likely to grow on ministers to prove that tougher anti-fraud powers can protect taxpayers’ money while ensuring support reaches those who genuinely need it.

COMMENT: England’s Triumph -I Wasn’t Going to Stay Up… But Thank God I Did

Mon, 06 Jul 2026 06:01:42 +0100

I wasn’t going to stay up. That was the plan, anyway. I’ve got a busy day ahead, work piling up, deadlines to meet, and more than enough reasons to be sensible.

I told myself I’d check the result in the morning. After all, kick-off was at an hour when most normal people are asleep.
Then it was delayed for another hour.

But football has a way of ignoring sensible plans. So there I was in the early hours, telling myself I’d watch the first few minutes before heading to bed. Hours later I was pacing around the room, shouting at the television, questioning the eyesight of the referee and wondering whether my heart would survive long enough to hear the final whistle. What a game. What an extraordinary, unforgettable, magnificent game. My heart is still pounding. England’s 3-2 victory over Mexico in the Azteca Stadium will go down as one of the finest performances we have ever seen from an England side. Not because it was flawless. Not because it was beautiful. Not because everything went according to plan. Quite the opposite. It was heroic because everything seemed to be against us. The Azteca is one of world football’s great arenas. Nearly 78,000 Mexican supporters packed the stands. The noise was relentless. The atmosphere was electric. The altitude alone is enough to sap the energy from even the fittest athletes. Mexico had not lost there in a World Cup qualifier or tournament match for years. Yet England walked into that cauldron and refused to be intimidated. Jude Bellingham was magnificent. Two first-half goals from a player who is a force of nature. Harry Kane delivered once again when his country needed him. Anthony Gordon ran himself into the ground. Jordan Pickford produced save after save when the pressure was at its greatest. They were all superb. Then came the moment every England fan dreaded. The red card. One reckless challenge and suddenly England were down to ten men with an eternity left to play. My immediate reaction was probably the same as millions of supporters across the country. “Oh no. Here we go.” We’ve all lived through too many England disappointments. Too many occasions when hope has been crushed just as it begins to bloom. Too many moments when fate seems determined to remind us that supporting England is not for the faint-hearted. But this team is different. That doesn’t mean they’re perfect. They aren’t. There are still moments when they frustrate us. There are still mistakes. There are still periods when they make life far harder than it needs to be. What makes them different is their character. Even with ten men, they kept fighting. Even when Mexico poured forward wave after wave, they kept fighting. Even when every tackle, clearance and block was being roared at by tens of thousands of supporters, they kept fighting. And then came the penalty. I know some people will disagree, but I still don’t think Mexico should have had it. I’ve seen the replays. I’ve listened to the explanations. I’ve heard the pundits. I’m still unconvinced. When the referee pointed to the spot my heart sank. When Raúl Jiménez converted, the tension became almost unbearable. Suddenly it felt as though the entire stadium was willing Mexico towards an equaliser. Yet England would not break. This was one of those nights that reminded us why sport can be so compelling. It wasn’t simply eleven footballers trying to win a match. It became a test of resilience, courage and belief. The final stages were almost unbearable. When the fourth official held up the board showing eleven minutes of added time, I genuinely thought it must be a mistake. Eleven minutes? Surely not. I actually set a stopwatch. I wanted to know exactly how much suffering remained. Never in my life have eleven minutes passed so slowly. Every corner felt like a penalty. Every free-kick felt like a crisis. Every clearance was celebrated as though England had scored. As the clock ticked beyond ninety, then beyond one hundred, then beyond the announced added time itself, I became convinced that time had somehow stopped altogether. And then finally, gloriously, came the whistle. England had done it. Not by playing pretty football. Not by dominating possession. Not by having everything go their way. They did it through sheer determination. The statistics tell one story. After the red card, Mexico had most of the ball. Most of the corners. More shots. More territory. The scoreline told the only story that mattered. England 3. Mexico 2. As dawn broke across Britain, England supporters were celebrating a victory that felt bigger than simply reaching another quarter-final. This was one of those rare sporting moments that captures the imagination of an entire nation. For years England teams have been accused of lacking bottle when it matters most. For years we’ve been told they cannot cope with pressure, hostile crowds or adversity. Well, nobody can say that after Mexico. They stared adversity in the face and beat it. Now comes Norway. And for the first time in a very long time, I find myself genuinely believing. Not hoping. Not dreaming. Believing. Because teams that win World Cups often have nights like this. Nights when everything goes wrong. Nights when logic says they should lose. Nights when they somehow find a way. England found a way. Whatever happens next, these players have already made their country proud. They have shown courage, resilience and a refusal to surrender that every England supporter can admire. For one glorious night in Mexico City, they were heroes. And as impossible as it once felt to say, those three little words are beginning to sound less like a joke and more like a possibility. It’s coming home.

Main Image: For illustration purposes.

The Myton Hospices calls for volunteers to join its retail team

Sun, 05 Jul 2026 17:00:00 +0100

THE MYTON Hospices is appealing for more volunteers to join its retail team. Retail income plays a vital role in funding the charity’s services, with Myton’s shops currently helping to fund the care of one in four patients living with life-limiting illnesses across the region. However, this vital income is only possible thanks to the dedication of its volunteers. From sorting donations and serving customers to creating welcoming spaces for shoppers, every role within Myton’s retail operation helps make a meaningful difference. The charity is currently recruiting volunteers at shops in Coventry, Shipston, Rugby and Leamington. Anil Gupta, head of retail and trading at The Myton Hospices, said: “Our charity shops are an incredibly important part of The Myton Hospices, not only raising vital funds but also providing people with a direct way to support their local community. “Every volunteer plays a crucial role, whether they are sorting donations, serving customers or helping to create welcoming spaces for shoppers. Quite simply, we could not do it without them. Volunteering with Myton is a fantastic opportunity to make a real difference and help ensure more people can access the care they need and deserve.” Visit www.mytonhospice.org/Volunteering to find out more.

Enjoying a holiday at home

Sun, 05 Jul 2026 12:17:00 +0100

OLDER people in south Warwickshire enjoyed another holiday at home.
Age UK Coventry and Warwickshire is celebrating the success of this year’s Holiday at Home event, delivered in partnership with Wellesbourne & Walton Community Cares (WWCC).
The three‑day programme brought older residents together for activities, companionship and a holiday‑style experience close to home.
Designed for people who may be lonely or isolated, this year’s event embraced a Cotswolds‑inspired theme, offering a sense of escape, enjoyment and connection.
As part of the partnership, Age UK Coventry and Warwickshire worked alongside WWCC volunteers throughout the event, providing senior staff members to help create a welcoming, safe and engaging environment for all attendees.
Emma Arnett, director of operations at Age UK Coventry and Warwickshire, said: “The atmosphere throughout the event was warm, friendly and full of connection, and it was wonderful to see so many older people enjoying time together.
“We look forward to continuing this collaboration and supporting future community events.”
WWCC also welcomed the ongoing partnership.
Wendy Biddington, from WWCC, said: “Holiday at Home has become an important event for many older people in our community, and each year it requires a huge amount of planning and support behind the scenes. Having Age UK Coventry and Warwickshire alongside us has been a real benefit, and their involvement helps us continue delivering an experience that brings people together, creates new connections and is valued by those who attend.”

Mexico Fans Stage Noisy Night Outside England Hotel Ahead of World Cup Showdown - NATIONAL NEWS

Sun, 05 Jul 2026 11:51:59 +0100

England’s preparations for one of their biggest matches of the 2026 FIFA World Cup have been disrupted after hundreds of Mexico supporters gathered outside the team’s hotel in Mexico City in an attempt to keep the players awake before tonight’s last-16 clash.

Supporters carrying drums, trumpets, megaphones and air horns assembled near England’s heavily guarded hotel, while fireworks lit up the night sky as fans chanted in support of the host nation.

Footage circulating online showed groups celebrating on nearby bridges and roads, with some openly admitting they hoped the noise would disturb the England squad before the match. The Football Association had attempted to keep the team’s accommodation secret after similar tactics were reportedly used against Ecuador before Mexico’s previous knockout match. However, England’s location was eventually identified and large crowds gathered outside despite a major security operation. Reports from Mexico City indicate that more than 100 riot police officers were deployed around the hotel, with roads closed and barriers erected to keep supporters away from the building itself. Armed officers maintained a visible presence throughout the evening as authorities sought to prevent any serious disorder. England are staying in the Santa Fe district of Mexico City, where security has been significantly increased ahead of the match. The Three Lions arrived in the Mexican capital on Friday and have been training at the famous Pumas UNAM Cantera complex as they adapt to the city’s challenging conditions. Mexico City sits around 2,240 metres above sea level, making it one of the highest venues being used during the tournament. Players and coaches have acknowledged that the altitude can affect breathing, recovery and stamina, particularly during the opening stages of matches. England manager Thomas Tuchel described the occasion as an “iconic match” and said his side were determined to create their own history at one of football’s most famous stadiums. Tonight’s encounter takes place at the legendary Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, with kick-off scheduled for 6pm local time on Sunday, which is 1am BST on Monday morning for supporters watching in the UK. The match is expected to be played in front of a passionate home crowd, with authorities planning one of the largest security operations ever seen for an England fixture. Reports suggest around 7,500 police officers will be deployed around the stadium and surrounding areas, with supporters advised to arrive several hours before kick-off. Mexico enter the contest unbeaten in the tournament and backed by a fervent home support, while England will hope that a noisy night outside their hotel has not affected their chances of reaching the World Cup quarter-finals.

Literary greats head to head in Stratford

Sun, 05 Jul 2026 07:00:00 +0100

GEORGE Bernard Shaw and Oscar Wilde will be going head to head in Stratford.
Rother Street Arts House is presenting a live discussion bringing together members of the companies behind Pygmalion and The Importance of Being Earnest – both currently running at the theatre – alongside scholars and commentators, for an exploration of two of theatre’s most enduring playwrights.
In Conversation: Pygmalion & The Importance of Being Earnest, taking place on August 15, offers audiences the opportunity to go behind the scenes of both productions during their runs at the venue. The free event will include rehearsal insights, discussion of text and performance.
Speakers will include Jonas Cemm, director of Pygmalion, theatre-maker and founder of SHAW2020, John Robert Partridge, artistic director of Rother Street Arts House and Tread the Boards Theatre Company, who also directs The Importance of Being Earnest and appears on stage as Henry Higgins in Pygmalion.
Joining them will be Neil Titley, author, playwright and journalist, with specialist expertise in the works of Shaw and Wilde, Vanessa Heron, chair of the Oscar Wilde Society, and Ivan Wise, editor of The Shavian and trustee of The Shaw Society
Together, the panel will explore the shared preoccupations of Shaw and Wilde—class, language, sexuality, society and theatre—and the challenges of staging their work for modern audiences.
Rather than a formal lecture, the event is .as an open conversation, followed by questions from the audience.
As Pygmalion and The Importance of Being Earnest continue their runs at Rother Street Arts House, the discussion complements the productions by offering audiences additional context from those directly involved in bringing the plays to the stage.
Visit rotherstreetarts.org for full details and tickets for both productions and In Conversation: Pygmalion and The Importance of Being Earnest.

Mural project brings plenty of colour to Warwickshire

Sat, 04 Jul 2026 16:00:00 +0100

THE FINAL mural in Warwickshire County Council’s Blank Canvas project has now been completed, marking the finish of a county-wide community art initiative that has transformed ten locations. Blank Canvas is a community art project funded by the UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund, with support from the Heart of England Community Rail Partnership. Ten locations across the county were selected to host a mural, each designed by local community groups to reflect the identity of their town or village. From abstract symbols to striking illustrations, every mural is unique, showcasing the diversity and vibrancy of Warwickshire’s communities. Each piece also features a Warwickshire bear – sometimes clearly visible, sometimes cleverly hidden – symbolising a shared sense of belonging while celebrating local individuality. Community groups worked closely with local artists, sharing their ideas and perspectives on what makes their area special. Artists Michelle Abrahall, Ali Glover, Jessi Hartshorn, Katie O and Tim Robottom brought these ideas to life, creating artworks that add colour and character to local streetscapes. Alongside these artists and the building owners hosting the murals, WCC thanked all the groups involved for their creativity and contribution – including volunteers at the Kenilworth Centre, children attending tutoring at Packmores Community Centre in Warwick, supporters of The Fox in Loxley, residents of Southam, supported by the town’s Galanos House, and users of the Hill Street Centre, and members of Tea Leaf Tales, both in Rugby. WCC culture spokesman Coun Darren Cheshire said: “It’s fantastic to see the final murals in the Blank Canvas project brought to life across Warwickshire. Each piece tells a unique local story, shaped by the people who know their communities best and brought together through creativity, collaboration and a real sense of pride in our places felt by the artists and, hopefully, by residents. “These murals not only brighten our streetscapes but also celebrate the shared heritage of our towns and villages – symbolised by the Warwickshire bear linking them all. I’d like to thank all the community groups, artists, partners and volunteers who contributed their ideas, time and talent to make this project such a success.” All of the murals can be seen here

Life-saving defibrillators installed outside six Warwickshire Police stations

Sat, 04 Jul 2026 12:00:00 +0100

LIFE-saving equipment is now available to the public outside six police stations in Warwickshire, thanks to the tireless efforts of a bereaved county mum who set up a charity in her son’s memory. Publicly-accessible defibrillators have been installed outside stations in Leamington, Rugby, Stratford, Alcester, Bedworth and Nuneaton. Warwickshire Police also has 33 defibrillators installed in specialist police cars across the county. The force has been working with the OurJay Foundation, set up by Rugby woman Naomi Rees-Issitt following the tragic death of her 18-year-old son Jamie Rees from a cardiac arrest in 2022. Since then, the charity has installed over 360 defibrillators across Warwickshire and beyond, while raising awareness of their importance and providing training in life-saving skills. A police spokesperson said officers were delighted with the new difibrillators. They said: “They’ve come about because of the inspirational work of Naomi. “Our officers were the first on the scene when Jamie went into cardiac arrest in 2022 and immediately began administering CPR. “With an ambulance en route, we radioed for urgent back up from an officer who got hold of a defib and was racing over to bring it to us. “But sadly, Jamie later passed away in hospital. Doctors believe that if there had been a defibrillator closer, Jamie might still be alive. “We couldn’t be more proud of Naomi and everyone at OurJay.” Visit www.ourjay.org.uk for more information on the charity.

Labour Scraps 200-Year-Old Law Criminalising Rough Sleeping - NATIONAL NEWS

Sat, 04 Jul 2026 10:19:50 +0100

People sleeping rough on the streets of England and Wales can no longer be arrested or prosecuted simply for being homeless after the Labour Government formally repealed the Vagrancy Act this week.

The historic legislation, first introduced in 1824, was officially removed from the statute book on 29 June 2026, ending more than two centuries during which rough sleeping and begging could be treated as criminal offences.

The move means that sleeping in a tent, doorway or other public place is no longer, in itself, a criminal offence. Supporters of the repeal argue that homelessness should be treated as a social issue rather than a matter for the criminal justice system. Critics, however, have raised concerns that local authorities and police may now find it harder to deal with encampments and street disorder in some areas. The Vagrancy Act was introduced in the aftermath of the Napoleonic Wars and was originally intended to deal with rising levels of poverty and homelessness. Over time it became increasingly controversial, with campaigners arguing that it punished vulnerable people for circumstances often beyond their control. Although prosecutions under the Act had fallen significantly in recent years, it continued to provide powers to move rough sleepers on, issue fines and, in some cases, secure criminal convictions. Charities argued that the threat of enforcement often pushed homeless people away from support services rather than helping them access assistance. Critics argue Labour risks normalising visible street encampments at a time when rough sleeping is already rising. Conservatives have previously warned that removing enforcement powers could contribute to “San Francisco-style tent cities” appearing in Britain, while former Home Secretary Suella Braverman cautioned against allowing streets to be “taken over by rows of tents”. Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp has also highlighted concerns over migrant encampments in central London and questioned whether authorities have sufficient powers to deal with persistent street camps. However, Housing Secretary Steve Reed said the repeal marked a shift from punishment to prevention, arguing that homeless people need support rather than criminal sanctions. The Government has linked the change to its wider strategy aimed at reducing homelessness and increasing access to long-term housing. Ministers have stressed that the repeal does not remove all powers available to police and councils. Authorities can still use anti-social behaviour legislation, public order laws and other enforcement measures where individuals are causing nuisance, harassment, intimidation or criminal activity. New provisions in the Crime and Policing Act are also intended to target organised begging gangs and exploitative behaviour. The repeal was welcomed by homelessness organisations including the charities Crisis, St Mungo’s and Homeless Link, which described the change as a landmark moment after decades of campaigning. They argue that criminalising rough sleeping failed to address the underlying causes of homelessness and often made it harder for people to access help. The legislation’s abolition brings England and Wales into line with Scotland, where similar laws were repealed years ago. Supporters see it as the end of an outdated Victorian-era approach, while critics argue the change could create fresh challenges for councils already struggling with rising homelessness and pressure on public services. What is clear is that, from now on, sleeping rough alone is no longer a criminal offence in England and Wales. Whether the policy leads to more people on the streets or changes how authorities respond to homelessness will become apparent in the years ahead. What do you think? Has the Government rightly consigned an outdated Victorian law to history, or does the repeal risk encouraging more tents on Britain’s streets? Share your views in the comments.

Wonderwall Becomes the Soundtrack of England’s World Cup Dream

Sat, 04 Jul 2026 09:46:17 +0100

For decades, England supporters have had a soundtrack for every major tournament. From Three Lions to Vindaloo, and more recently Sweet Caroline, football fans have always found a song to unite behind.

Now, during England’s 2026 World Cup campaign, a new anthem appears to have captured the nation’s imagination: Wonderwall.

The Oasis classic has become a defining feature of England’s journey in the United States, with players and supporters joining together in mass singalongs after victories. What began as a spontaneous moment following England’s opening World Cup win has quickly evolved into one of the most memorable traditions of the tournament so far. Following England’s dramatic knockout victory over DR Congo, thousands of travelling fans once again remained in the stands to sing the song alongside the players. Oasis frontman Liam Gallagher even weighed in on social media, urging supporters to “C’mon England, c’mon Wonderwall”, while his brother and songwriter Noel Gallagher described the scenes as “magical”. England captain Harry Kane has called the first post-match singalong one of his favourite moments in an England shirt, highlighting the bond it created between players and supporters. A Song That Refuses to Fade Away Released in October 1995 as the fourth single from Oasis’s landmark album (What’s the Story) Morning Glory?, Wonderwall has long since moved beyond its Britpop origins. The song reached number two on the UK Singles Chart and became Oasis’s biggest hit in the United States, peaking at number eight on the Billboard Hot 100. It topped charts in countries including Australia and New Zealand and remains one of the defining songs of the 1990s. Its popularity has endured into the streaming age. Wonderwall became the first song from the 1990s to surpass one billion streams on Spotify in 2020, and today has accumulated more than 2.8 billion streams on the platform, making it by far Oasis’s most-streamed track. The track has sold and streamed millions of copies in Britain and remains one of the country’s most recognisable songs nearly 31 years after its release. Why Has It Connected With England? Part of the appeal lies in the song’s unusual mix of optimism and melancholy. Unlike traditional football anthems, Wonderwall was never written for sport. Noel Gallagher has variously described it as being about an imaginary friend who saves you from yourself, while listeners have spent decades attaching their own meanings to its lyrics. That ambiguity may explain why it has resonated so strongly with England supporters. The song is instantly recognisable, easy to sing and emotionally powerful. Its famous chorus can be shouted by 30,000 fans just as easily as it can be sung quietly in a pub. Football and music have always shared a sense of collective emotion, and few songs create that feeling better than Wonderwall. The lyrics are familiar to multiple generations, from supporters who bought the single in the 1990s to younger fans who discovered it through streaming services. The timing has also been perfect. Oasis enjoyed renewed global attention following their hugely successful reunion tour, while England entered the World Cup looking to end a 60-year wait for football’s greatest prize. The combination has helped transform an already iconic song into the unofficial soundtrack of the tournament. More Than Just a Football Song Whether Wonderwall remains England’s anthem beyond this summer remains to be seen. Football history is full of songs that captured a moment before fading away. Yet there is something different about the scenes witnessed after England’s World Cup victories. The song has united players and supporters in a way that feels entirely organic rather than manufactured. For now, every England win appears to end the same way: players facing the travelling fans, arms around shoulders, singing one of Britain’s most famous songs together. If England’s World Cup adventure continues, Wonderwall may well become remembered not just as one of the greatest songs of the 1990s, but as the soundtrack to one of the most memorable England campaigns in a generation.

Wonderwall Today is gonna be the day that they’re gonna throw it back to you
By now, you should’ve somehow realised what you gotta do
I don’t believe that anybody feels the way I do about you now
And backbeat, the word is on the street that the fire in your heart is out
I’m sure you’ve heard it all before, but you never really had a doubt
I don’t believe that anybody feels the way I do about you now
And all the roads we have to walk are winding
And all the lights that lead us there are blinding
There are many things that I would like to say to you
But I don’t know how
Because maybe
You’re gonna be the one that saves me
And after all
You’re my wonderwall Today was gonna be the day, but they’ll never throw it back to you
By now, you should’ve somehow realised what you’re not to do
I don’t believe that anybody feels the way I do about you now
And all the roads that lead you there were winding
And all the lights that light the way are blinding
There are many things that I would like to say to you
But I don’t know how
I said, “Maybe
You’re gonna be the one that saves me
And after all
You’re my wonderwall”
I said, “Maybe (I said maybe)
You’re gonna be the one that saves me
And after all
You’re my wonderwall”
I said, “Maybe (I said maybe)
You’re gonna be the one that saves me (saves me)
You’re gonna be the one that saves me (saves me)
You’re gonna be the one that saves me” (saves me) Source: Musixmatch
Songwriter: Noel Gallagher
Wonderwall lyrics © Oasis Music

Hot hatches rev up 80s and 90s motoring nostalgia

Sat, 04 Jul 2026 07:00:00 +0100

HOT hatches are bringing back memories at the British Motor Museum The Gaydon museum’s new exhibition ‘Spoiler Alert: The Hot Hatch Story’, celebrates 80s and 90s hot hatch culture. Inspired by the energetic atmosphere of car meets and the bold visuals of era-defining car magazines, there are eight iconic vehicles on display, each marking different phases in the history of the hot hatch. The selection includes a 1981 VW Golf GTI, a 1985 Group B rally era MG Metro 6R4, a 1988 Peugeot 205 GTI Tolman Edition, and a 2021 Honda Civic Type R built in the Swindon works before its closure. Petrolheads can explore the enduring legacy of these groundbreaking vehicles through a range of exhibits and installations, including objects that evoke the spirit of the era, such as a Sony Walkman, a shell suit, and a selection of retro toys. And visitors can also customise their own hot hatch designs and enjoy an interactive hot hatch-themed photo opportunity. Museum curator Cat Boxall said: “ Those born in the 60s, 70s & 80s will fondly remember these ‘souped-up’ cars as their first or second cherished vehicles. Many have reached classic status and are now as highly prized as some supercars!”

UPDATE - England v Mexico match to go ahead at 1am as originally planned - NATIONAL NEWS

Sat, 04 Jul 2026 02:04:16 +0100

THE LAST 16 World Cup match between England and Mexico will not be brought forward and will be played at 1am (BST) on Monday as originally planned.

It was mooted that – due to thunderstorms – the last 16 clash could be moved to 7pm (BST) on Sunday.

But, after consideration, FIFA has now confirmed the original match time at the Azteca stadium, Mexico City, should stay. Its reasoning centred on it being too late for fans to change travel arrangements and logistics of moving the fixture. Talks had taken place between the English Football Association (FA) and their Mexican counterparts with FIFA. The threat of thunderstorms still remains and there is a chance the match could be disrupted with delays needed during the game. On Thursday, the UK government announced it would be moving emergency legislation to let pubs, clubs and bars stay open until 5am on Monday so they could screen the encounter.

Thai Festival brings a taste of the orient to Warwick Racecourse

Fri, 03 Jul 2026 17:00:00 +0100

THE SIGHTS, tastes and sounds of the orient made their annual pilgrimage to Warwick Racecourse at the weekend. Thousands turned up for the ever popular Thai Festival organised by Warwick Rotary Club in partnership with Magic of Thailand on Saturday (June 27) and Sunday (June 28). And the festival was back with its trusted format of traders, dancers, musicians and monks. The Buddhist Monks kicked off the festival with their ceremonies and the traditional reception of gifts from the traders. On stage throughout the day there was a top class presentation of Thai culture, with dancing, lady boys, music, Thai boxing and cookery demonstrations. There were also plenty of stalls selling Thai food, drinks, spices, crafts, and massages. All the proceeds from the day, which are still being totted up, will go to Warwick Rotary Club’s charitable causes.

FOOTBALL - Leamington sign midfielder Kyle Belmonte from Worcester City

Fri, 03 Jul 2026 15:00:50 +0100

LEAMINGTON have confirmed the signing of midfielder Kyle Belmonte from divisional rivals Worcester City.

The 27-year-old helped Worcester achieve back-to-back promotions from the Hellenic League Premier Division to the Southern League Premier Central.

He spent time on loan at Bromsgrove Sporting last season and departs Worcester after scoring more than 60 goals in over 100 appearances.

Belmonte said: "I'm over the moon to be here. "It's a massive club, one of the biggest in the league. "Going from Worcester to Bromsgrove, to Leamington, it's big club to big club to big club. "Scott's tried to speak to me a few times over the summer, but I've had a fair few holidays so we couldn't really talk much. "Once we had a proper conversation I realised that Leamington is the club for me. "It's ideal coming here, only an hour from home. Scott drove it, to prove a point. "I'm more than happy to be here and play under him as I know how he wants to play - keep the ball and play football." Brakes boss, Scott Easterlow added: "Belmo is another very strong addition to the squad, he’s someone who I have tried to sign a couple of times before. "An action packed midfielder who’s capable of adding goals and assists too. "He’s a player who I know the fans will really enjoy having here."

Belmonte has also had spells at Redditch United, Stratford Town, Kidderminster Harriers, Malvern Town, Worcester Raiders, Alvechurch, Bewdley Town and Evesham United. He won the Northern Premier League Midlands goal of the season award during his time with Worcester.

Yael Foundation and the Power of Experience in Jewish Education

Fri, 03 Jul 2026 14:18:17 +0100

YAEL Foundation works in a field where attention, memory, and identity meet. Jewish education today has to compete with a world designed to capture young people’s emotions, habits, and loyalties. Platforms, brands, entertainment, and social communities all understand one thing clearly: people remember experiences that make them feel something about themselves. That same principle matters deeply for Jewish schools. A lesson may explain tradition, history, or ritual, but identity is usually shaped by something more durable. It is shaped by a song remembered years later, a holiday celebration that felt alive, a teacher who made a story personal, or a camp experience that showed a child they belonged to a much wider people. For Yael Foundation, this idea is central to strengthening Jewish education across communities. The goal is not simply to transmit information. The deeper task is to help students form positive emotional memory around Jewish life, so that education becomes part of how they understand themselves. Yael Camp as Immersive Jewish Experience Yael Camp offers a clear example of this educational philosophy in practice. It brings young people together for an immersive summer experience built around Jewish identity, community, and connection. For many students, the international informal educational programmes supported by the Yael Foundation help expand their understanding of Jewish identity beyond their local school or neighbourhood. A child may arrive with one image of Jewish life and leave with a more expansive understanding of community. Meeting peers from different places can turn an abstract idea into a lived experience. Yael Foundation uses this kind of setting to strengthen belonging through participation. Camp creates shared memory because students do not only learn about connection; they practice it. They eat together, sing together, study together, speak across differences, and discover that Jewish identity can hold many accents, customs, and personal stories. That is why immersive experiences matter. The Yael Foundation's Approach to Emotional Engagement in Jewish Education Attention is selective. Children and teenagers remember the experiences that feel vivid, social, and emotionally significant. In a crowded cultural environment, this has become one of the great challenges for education. This understanding shapes many of the educational initiatives supported by the Yael Foundation. If Jewish learning feels distant or purely instructional, it may struggle to remain present in a student's inner life after the classroom ends. Yael Foundation addresses this challenge by supporting education that connects knowledge with experience. This approach reflects a practical truth: young people are more likely to carry Jewish identity forward when they associate it with belonging, confidence, joy, pride, and community. This is not a call for entertainment to replace learning. It is closer to a design principle that informs many of the educational initiatives supported by the Yael Foundation. A school, camp, or youth program can ask what students should feel during a Jewish holiday, what role they should play, and what memory should remain afterward. The answers will vary across settings, but the underlying question is essential. Yael Foundation operates across 45 countries, supports 144 institutions, and reaches 29,362 children. Those figures matter because identity formation is never only a private process. It depends on institutions capable of making Jewish life visible, repeated, and emotionally meaningful. The Brain Remembers What Feels Significant There is a scientific reason emotional experiences leave a stronger mark. This understanding also informs the educational approach of the Yael Foundation. Cognitive neuroscience has shown that emotionally arousing experiences are more likely to become long-term memories. When an event feels significant, the brain gives it priority. The amygdala and hippocampus work together in ways that help shape how memories are encoded, stored, and later retrieved. For the Yael Foundation, the implication for Jewish education is practical. Students often remember the field trip, the performance, the Shabbat table, the holiday project, or the teacher who made the material feel alive. Facts matter, of course, but facts tend to endure when they are attached to meaning. Yael Foundation supports a model of education that understands this connection. Jewish learning becomes stronger when it is designed around moments that students can inhabit. A holiday lesson, for example, can move beyond explanation into music, food, storytelling, participation, and shared ritual. The experience becomes multi-sensory, and the memory becomes easier to carry. This is especially important because young people are already surrounded by systems designed to build emotional attachment. The Yael Foundation recognises that meaningful educational experiences play an important role in strengthening Jewish identity. Brands understand how to create loyalty through experience. Schools, perhaps, need to be just as intentional when the goal is identity rather than consumption. From Individual Moments to Educational Systems Every school has teachers who remain in the memory of former students. They are usually the educators who created moments larger than the lesson itself. Perhaps they made a text feel urgent, turned a holiday into a shared experience, or helped a child feel seen within a tradition. The challenge is consistency. Yael Foundation supports the idea that meaningful Jewish experience should not depend only on individual charisma. It should be embedded in school culture, program design, teacher training, and community practice. This requires systems, an approach reflected in many of the educational initiatives supported by the Yael Foundation. A Sunday school, a day school, a camp, and an after-school program all operate with different constraints, yet each can build repeatable frameworks for experience. Multi-sensory rituals, student participation, peer connection, and moments that extend into the home can help Jewish learning move beyond the classroom. Yael Foundation has directed educational grants through a structured model focused on long-term educational impact. It also supports initiatives that make experience part of the educational framework, including Yael Camp and Yael Awards. Schools, Awards, and the Design of Belonging Yael Foundation also supports educational quality through institutions, grants, awards, and infrastructure. Yael Awards open to schools in 45 countries, encourages schools to think seriously about excellence in Jewish education. Awards programmes organised by the Yael Foundation can matter when they highlight models that other schools can study and adapt. The point is not simply recognition. The more important effect is the circulation of ideas. A school in one community may discover a new way to build holiday engagement, parent participation, student leadership, or identity-centred programming. Yael Foundation works with the understanding that strong educational systems are built through both inspiration and structure. Schools need memorable moments, but they also need stable institutions, trained educators, shared standards, and resources that allow good ideas to continue. This is where the foundation’s wider work becomes relevant. Support for 144 institutions creates a framework in which educational experience can be repeated, improved, and made accessible to more children. Article by Jamie Smith

Concerns Raised Over Future of NHS Technology Contract Under Burnham - NATIONAL NEWS

Fri, 03 Jul 2026 12:47:12 +0100

Questions are being raised over the future of a major NHS technology contract after reports suggested Andy Burnham could seek to end the health service’s relationship with US software company Palantir.

The company currently provides the technology behind the NHS Federated Data Platform (FDP), a system designed to help hospitals manage patient data, reduce delays and improve efficiency across the health service.

The contract, awarded in 2023 and worth £330 million over seven years, has been credited by NHS officials with helping increase operating theatre usage, speed up patient discharges and support additional surgical procedures. However, reports indicate that Mr Burnham, who is expected to become Prime Minister later this month following Sir Keir Starmer’s resignation, is reviewing the Government’s approach to artificial intelligence and major technology contracts. The prospect of ending the Palantir arrangement has prompted criticism from opposition politicians who argue that decisions about NHS technology should be based on patient outcomes rather than political considerations. Andrew Griffith, the Shadow Business Secretary, questioned whether removing the technology could have unintended consequences. He said:

“Most AI, including Palantir, is essentially an optimisation engine. It finds better solutions, faster. “Does Andy Burnham think the NHS is so optimal it cannot be improved, or does he accept that kicking out Palantir will have a trade-off which is measured in more Brits dying?”

His comments were echoed by Shadow Health Secretary Stuart Andrew, who warned against abandoning systems that are already delivering results. He said:

“If Andy Burnham tears up a programme that is improving patient care, he will have to explain why he chose politics over patients. “The NHS should use the best technology available to save lives, cut waiting lists and help staff deliver better care.”

Palantir’s involvement with the NHS has been controversial in some political circles. Critics have highlighted the company’s work with the Israeli Defence Forces and US immigration authorities, while others have expressed concerns about the political views of some of the firm’s senior executives. More than half of NHS trusts in England are now reported to use Palantir technology. NHS figures suggest the system has been a success and helped support around 110,000 additional operations since the contract began. Data reported by national media has also indicated that hospitals using the platform have achieved significant improvements in operating theatre utilisation, potentially increasing the number of patients who can receive treatment. Supporters argue that the technology is helping the NHS make better use of limited resources at a time when waiting lists remain under pressure. When approached for comment, Mr Burnham’s team said he “has not announced any final decision regarding the contract.” However, pressure from his allies and his record as Mayor of Greater Manchester has attracted attention, with neither the Greater Manchester Combined Authority nor Greater Manchester Police awarding contracts to Palantir during his time in office. The NHS contract contains a break clause next year, meaning ministers will eventually have to decide whether to continue the arrangement or seek an alternative provider. For patients and NHS staff, the debate is likely to focus less on politics and more on a simple question: whether replacing a system already embedded across much of the health service would improve care or risk disrupting it. With the NHS continuing to face significant pressures, any future decision is likely to attract close scrutiny from both supporters and critics alike.

Main Image: For illustration purposes. Image of Andy Burnham, screen grab / X.

BOXING - Royal Leamington Spa ABC fighter makes winning return to ring after three years away

Fri, 03 Jul 2026 12:00:31 +0100

ROYAL Leamington Spa ABC fighter James Rigby made a winning return to the ring after three years away from the sport.

Rigby made his comeback at 67kg against Southend-on-Sea ABC fighter Riley Hallet in Maldon, Essex.

And the Leamington fighter showed signs of ring rust in the first and second rounds before eventually finding his groove. Rigby sent his opponent crashing to the canvas in the third and final round with a right hook-left hook combination as he made a winning return to the sport. On the same show, Leamington fighter Ben Williams faced Southend's James Rutter at 52kg. Williams took part in his second bout in as many weeks and took the first round but began to show signs of fatigue in the second. The Leamington boxer threw several flurries and combinations in the final round but came up short in a split decision defeat. Teammate Jordan Khera then followed in a 57kg bout against Southend boxer Ben Holmes. Both fighters landed heavy shots with the doctor called in to check on damage to Khera's cheek in the second round. The doctor took the decision to end the contest early before Khera could sustain any further damage. Elsewhere, Max Gramboudes suffered a split decision defeat in a scrappy contest in his first bout boxing Leamington. Gramboudes fought in an 85kg contest on a Red Corner Gym home show against Team Seymour ABC fighter Joshua Suffolk. The referee had to constantly separate the two boxers with the home fighter only recently transitioning from MMA. Suffolk repeatedly held Gramboudes throughout the contest as the Seymour fighter took the win by split decision.

Leamington law firm raise total of £28,000 for The Myton Hospices

Fri, 03 Jul 2026 12:00:27 +0100

A FIRM of Leamington solicitors is celebrating raising a grand total of £28,000 to fund vital hospice care. Blythe Liggins Solicitors has been taking part in The Myton Hospices’ annual Make a Will Week for 13 years, offering will writing services for free for a week in return for donations. Since 2013, it has written more than 200 wills for individuals or couples as part of the annual Make a Will Week in return for £28,000 in donations. The firm also supports the hospice by sponsoring the annual Two Castles Run, which this year had more than 70 runners taking part in aid of the hospices. Donna Bothamley, partner and head of wills and probate at Blythe Liggins, said: “We’re pleased to play our part in supporting The Myton Hospices and are proud to have taken part in Make A Will Week for the 13th year this year. “Every donation we raise for The Myton Hospices supports its hard work to provide vital services and support for people living with a life-limiting illness, and their families, across Coventry and Warwickshire. “Our team doesn’t plan to slow down now, and we look forward to continuing to fundraise for the hospices whenever we can.” During this year’s Make a Will Week, which took place in March, the Blythe Liggins team wrote 18 wills for free – raising £2,015 for the charity.

NHS-Backed Scheme to Reward People for Walking 20 Minutes a Day - NATIONAL NEWS

Fri, 03 Jul 2026 11:39:46 +0100

Millions of people across the UK could soon be offered shopping vouchers, discounts and other rewards for walking just 20 minutes a day under a new NHS-backed initiative designed to encourage healthier lifestyles.

The campaign, known as Movement 26.2, is due to launch in January 2027 and aims to inspire people to complete the equivalent of a marathon every month through everyday walking.

Participants will be encouraged to build regular movement into their daily routines by walking around 20 minutes a day, adding up to 26.2 miles over the course of a month. The initiative is being led by Olympic medallist Brendan Foster and businessman Keith Mills, with support from the NHS. Organisers say the programme will use a digital platform, expected to be an app or website, to track progress and encourage participation through rewards and incentives. These could include digital badges, medals, clothing, discounts and shopping vouchers. Health officials are also understood to be in discussions with retailers about creating a points-based rewards scheme similar to those used by supermarkets, coffee chains and other loyalty programmes. Speaking about the initiative, Sir Brendan said:

“The challenge became very simple: can you do a marathon? Not in one day, but over the course of a month. “The WHO recommends 150 minutes of moderate activity a week. We realised that adds up to roughly the distance of a marathon every month.”

He added:

“It’s the marathon reimagined. You don’t have to travel anywhere, you don’t need special kit and there’s no entry fee. It starts from your own front door. “We’re trying to create the biggest marathon in history, but one that’s open to absolutely everybody.”

The campaign comes amid growing concern about physical inactivity and its impact on public health. NHS estimates suggest inactivity costs the health service around £1 billion each year, contributing to conditions such as heart disease and diabetes. Organisers hope the simplicity of the challenge will encourage widespread participation, including among wheelchair users and people with disabilities. The rewards system is expected to draw on techniques used by fitness and learning apps, such as digital milestones, streaks and achievement badges, to help participants stay motivated. Sir Brendan said:

“Our formula has always been: encourage, challenge, support and reward. Initially there’ll be digital rewards, like keeping a streak going for three months. Over time there’ll be other kinds of rewards – medals, T-shirts, but also discounts and rewards.”

The initiative has received backing from NHS England chief executive Jim Mackey, who said it reflected ambitions set out in the Government’s 10-Year Health Plan. He said:

“Physical activity should be part of everyone’s daily life choice. Movement 26.2 is about exactly that – making movement part of everyday life again in a way that feels simple and achievable for everyone. “By helping people build regular walking into their daily routines, we have a real opportunity to improve physical and mental wellbeing and help people live longer, healthier lives.”

Recent research has highlighted the importance of regular movement. A study by the University of Glasgow found that breaking up long periods of sitting with light activity, such as walking or household chores, was associated with a reduced risk of cancer-related death. Health experts have long recommended that adults complete at least 150 minutes of moderate physical activity each week, in line with guidance from the World Health Organization. Sir Brendan believes the challenge is not a lack of scientific evidence but encouraging people to turn that evidence into everyday habits. He said:

“We don’t exercise because it’s an instinct. We move because, throughout our evolutionary history, it was necessary. “If you didn’t hunt, somebody else got your food. If you didn’t move, somebody might catch you as their food. Movement wasn’t optional. “Our bodies weren’t evolved to sit still. If you keep the machine working, it works. If you don’t keep it working, it doesn’t.”

He added:

“The scientists have done an amazing job uncovering the benefits of movement. What they haven’t managed to do is persuade ordinary people. They haven’t managed to market their findings.”

Organisers hope that by combining simple goals with tangible rewards, the programme can help make regular movement a routine part of daily life for millions of people. More information to follow in due course.

NHS Testing Programme Identifies Nearly 2,000 Previously Undiagnosed HIV Cases - NATIONAL NEWS

Fri, 03 Jul 2026 11:30:36 +0100

A pioneering NHS testing programme operating in accident and emergency departments has identified almost 2,000 people in England who were unknowingly living with HIV since its launch in 2022.

The scheme, which is now running in 88 areas with the highest rates of HIV, routinely tests adults who require a blood test in A&E for HIV, hepatitis B and hepatitis C unless they choose to opt out.

New NHS figures show that 1,900 previously undiagnosed HIV cases have been detected through the programme since it began in April 2022. Health officials say the initiative is helping to identify people who may not otherwise have been tested. Research by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) found that 93 per cent of those diagnosed through the programme had no previous record of an HIV test. People who receive a positive result are offered specialist NHS support and treatment. The latest figures coincide with the publication of a major study in The Lancet HIV, which examined the impact of the programme. Researchers estimate that the first 802 new HIV diagnoses made during the scheme’s initial phase could prevent around 187 HIV-related deaths and 28 new transmissions over the next two decades. The study, conducted by researchers at the University of Bristol’s National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) Health Protection Research Unit in Evaluation and Behavioural Science, concluded that the programme represents good value for money and helps people access treatment earlier. One of those diagnosed through the programme was Ayo, a Manchester resident in his 50s. After developing nerve pain, facial numbness, significant weight loss and other symptoms over several months, he was admitted to Manchester Royal Infirmary’s emergency department, where he underwent routine testing as part of the scheme. His HIV test returned a positive result. Ayo said the diagnosis came as a surprise and that he had not considered HIV to be something that would affect him at his age. He said knowing his status has enabled him to access treatment and protect his family. According to health officials, around one in 20 people living with HIV in England are unaware they have the virus, while others are only diagnosed after it has already affected their health. Professor Francesca Swords, NHS national medical director, said the programme was helping people receive diagnoses, often before symptoms develop, allowing them to begin treatment sooner. She said expanding testing in emergency departments was an example of making routine patient contact count by identifying health conditions that might otherwise go undetected. The programme forms part of the Government’s HIV Action Plan 2025-2030, which aims to end new HIV transmissions in England by 2030. As part of that strategy, the Department of Health and Social Care has committed £156 million between April 2026 and March 2029 to continue opt-out testing for HIV, hepatitis B and hepatitis C in emergency departments located in areas with high and very high HIV prevalence. Dr Josephine Walker, lead author of the study at the University of Bristol, said the programme costs around £6 per HIV test and represents good value for the NHS, despite the large number of tests required to identify each previously undiagnosed case. Researchers said their findings support the continued use of routine opt-out testing in emergency departments as a key part of efforts to reduce HIV transmission. Professor Marian Knight, Scientific Director for NIHR Infrastructure, said making testing as simple and accessible as possible was essential if England is to achieve its goal of ending HIV transmission. He said:

“To end HIV transmission, we have to make it as straightforward as possible for people to be tested wherever easiest for them. This ED testing scheme is doing exactly that – finding hundreds of unidentified HIV cases among people who may never have otherwise sought a test. “Research supported by two of our NIHR Health Protection Research Units shows that this is a highly cost-effective intervention. This marks a critical pivot from sickness to prevention, protecting communities who need it the most.”

NHS leaders are continuing to rollout the programme to help more people unknowingly living with HIV; and a further three new hospitals will start offering testing to their ED patients by April 2027. The programme is continuing to expand, with three additional hospitals expected to begin offering the testing service by April 2027. NHS leaders say this will make the scheme available in almost all areas of England. Dr Tamara Djuretic, Head of the HIV Section at UKHSA, said the initiative was helping to reach people who may not realise they are living with HIV or other blood-borne viruses and who may not otherwise seek testing. Katie Clark, Head of Policy at the charity Terrence Higgins Trust, described the routine testing programme as “game changing”, saying it was helping to diagnose people who might not be reached through traditional testing routes while also providing value for money for the health service. She said: said:

“This routine approach to HIV testing in emergency departments has been game changing. We now have very clear evidence that not only does this front-footed approach mean we are diagnosing people who are unlikely to be tested anywhere else, but also that it’s excellent value for money. The continuation of opt-out HIV testing is crucial as we work to end new HIV cases in England by 2030 and ensure no one – regardless of gender, ethnicity or location – is left behind. The next step is to take the same approach to GPs in areas with a very high HIV prevalence.”

For more information on HIV testing services, visit nhs.uk website.

'Community power' shows strength of feeling against Reform councillors' 'attacks on LGBTQ+ communities'

Fri, 03 Jul 2026 10:34:42 +0100

‘COMMUNITY power’ was on show at a protest against Warwickshire County Council’s ‘hateful’ plans to remove LGBTQ+ books from the county’s libraries. The protest, outside the council’s Shire Hall headquarters in Warwick, was in opposition to the council’s Reform UK leader Coun George Finch’s announcement last month that his administration would seek to remove materials relating to ‘sex, gender and identity’ from libraries, claiming they were ‘promoting contested gender ideology’. Cabinet member Coun Wayne Briggs has also been accused of hate speech by claiming in a leaked email that the LGBTQ+ Pride movement has been “hijacked by groomers and mentally ill men in dresses”. Warwickshire Pride Chair Daniel Browne said the protest was a ‘strong show of community power’. He said: “The protest was well attended by people from various communities and not just LGBTQ+ people, who really need allies at the moment. “Certain councillors were typically rude and dismissive, but there are also councillors from Labour, the Lib Dems, and the Greens supporting protests, standing up for what is right, and speaking out against the ongoing attacks on LGBTQ+ communities. “We work with over 500 LGBTQ+ people weekly via our support services and social activities. We see first hand the damage and distress that words and actions such as those coming from Warwickshire County Council’s Reform administration causes. “It’s causing stress, anxiety, depression, and mental distress among a lot of LGBTQ+ people. It’s also inciting hatred towards LGBTQ+ people. “It’s not ok – the hate from the general public, and the hateful agenda of the Reform administration. “We will continue to stand against what is happening and continue supporting LGBTQ+ communities who really need us at this time of growing crisis.” Last month, Coun Finch said his administration would work on a policy to ‘provide parents with peace of mind that their children are not being told to believe one set of political ideas over any other’. He said: “Libraries should be politically neutral, and not seek to embolden political ideologies. The council should not be actively promoting contested political or ideological causes to children. “This policy will cover not just our libraries, but all Warwickshire County Council-owned public spaces.” In an email leaked last month, Coun Briggs, Portfolio Holder for Children and Families, Education and SEND, said: “This (Pride) movement has been hijacked by groomers and mentally ill men in dresses gyrating in front of children and pushing a delusion that you can somehow change from male to female and vice versa if you’re unhappy with your own body. This is a dangerous ideology.”

GOLF - Warwickshire golfers to represent England at European Team Championships

Fri, 03 Jul 2026 09:00:31 +0100

A COUPLE of Warwickshire county golfers will represent England Golf at the upcoming European Team Championships later this month.

Sam Easterbrook and Seb Cave feature in a six-player men's squad alongside Elliot Baker, Lewy Haywardm Harley Smith and Tom Osborne.

Easterbrook plays out of Olton Golf Club in Solihull while Cave plays out of Coxmoor Golf Club in Nottinghamshire. The tournament tales place in Tallinn, Estonia from July 7 to 11 at the Estonian Golf and Country Club. England won bronze at last year's event and last triumphed in the 2013 edition. Solihull golfer Easterbrook won the 2025 Puerto Rico Classic and secured a top-10 finish at the 2026 edition. He also finished tied for second place at the 2026 Hoosier Collegiate Invitational in the United States of America. Easterbrook reached the quarter-finals of the 2026 Amateur Championship. And he secured top-10 finishes at the 2026 Calusa Cup, Big Ten Championship and NCAA Corvallis Regional with all three events played in America. Easterbrook previously represented England at the 2023 European Boys' Team Championship and 2022 Boys' Home Internationals. Amateur golfer Cave played at the Open Championship in 2025 after he finished fourth in the final qualifying event for the major at Royal Cinque Ports. He also formed part of the England team which won the 2025 Women's and Men's Home Internationals tournament. Cave previously represented Great Britain and Ireland against Europe in the 2024 St Andrews Trophy. This year, Cave finished tied for second at the 2026 Hayt Collegiate in USA and tied for fifth at the American Conference Champs.

Coach Rob Watts said: "I’m extremely excited by this team. "It has a blend of experience and proven international success around the world. "This is a tight team who know each other and have played for each other. "We go to Estonia to fight for the gold medal."

South Warwickshire bus driver awarded for saving a man's life

Fri, 03 Jul 2026 07:00:00 +0100

NOT all heroes wear capes – some drive buses. Pat Friar, a Stagecoach Midlands bus driver based at the Leamington depot, has been recognised for his calm and compassion in responding to a medical emergency. He found a man lying on the road in front of his bus, in Stratford. Pat noticed the man had collapsed and acted quickly to position his bus to block the road and protect the man from other vehicles. Then, when Pat realised that the man’s heart had stopped beating, he began to administer CPR and continued for around 25 minutes until a nurse arrived on the scene with a defibrillator. His daughter, who is a paramedic, had shown him how to perform CPR just four months earlier. Pat received the Stagecoach Midlands’ Star of the Month award Zoe Stilgoe, duty manager at Stagecoach’s Leamington depot, said: “It’s moments like these that remind us that our job is about much more than driving a bus. Pat’s quick actions, professionalism and genuine care for a passenger in need were outstanding and are a credit to both himself and the company. He is now encouraging other members of the team to learn CPR.” Mark Whitelocks, managing director of Stagecoach Midlands, added: “I am very proud and grateful for Pat’s quick thinking in a difficult situation, This really demonstrates the vital role that bus drivers play in our region. “Buses are the lifeblood of our communities, providing a lifeline for many by keeping people moving. As a bus driver, you ensure people can access work, education, essential services, and visit their friends and family. Without the dedication of our drivers, engineers, presentation and support teams, none of this would be possible.”

COLUMN: MP Matt Western talks Keir Starmer

Thu, 02 Jul 2026 18:00:45 +0100

I HOPE Sir Keir Starmer will leave Downing Street with his head held justifiably high. He achieved so much in such little time, but ultimately, the results were not being felt strongly and quickly enough for a country that had become understandably impatient for change. The truth is, turning around the fortunes of a country takes many years. Much has been achieved in the last 2 years which we should be hugely proud of, and the Prime Minister is due a huge amount of credit. Of course, there are things we haven’t got right, and I will not shy away from that fact (though let’s be honest here – this Government committed far fewer U-turns than Johnson, Truss or Sunak). The achievements of the last two years are massive: record falls in waiting lists; the second-highest growth in the G7 since the 2024 election; half a million children to be lifted out of poverty; the biggest expansion of employment rights; significant changes to renters’ rights and wider reform of the rental market ... the greatest in a generation. The nationalisation of the railways. Immigration down 80% from its peak. These are not small accomplishments. You would be forgiven for hearing some of these achievements for the first time. Unfortunately, we failed to communicate them effectively, and in this era of populism, delivery alone is not enough. When Keir first became leader of the Labour Party, our party was on the brink: facing our worst election result in over eighty years and seemingly condemned to a decade in opposition. Yet he rebuilt the party, brick by brick, into a credible, election-winning machine. For Keir, however, it was never just about Labour; it was always about the country. Country first, party second. As Leader of the Opposition, he upheld the national interest with consistency and seriousness. He challenged Johnson’s conduct during Covid when necessary, but when unity was required, on Ukraine, or in the early days of the pandemic, he put aside party politics and offered our party’s support and unity The 2024 election result crowned years of hard work and sacrifice. A 174-seat majority was seismic, ending fourteen years of Conservative chaos, mismanagement, austerity, and incompetence. Only Attlee and Blair had before delivered triple-figure majorities for Labour. Over the past two years, Keir’s government has delivered a wide range of achievements. On the economy, Britain became the second-fastest-growing in the G7, and the fastest in the first quarter of this year. Interest rates were falling, and inflation was on track to hit 2%. Wage stagnation, which had persisted for over a decade, was reversed, with wages consistently rising faster than inflation. These gains came before the global shock triggered by President Trump’s actions in Iran, which drove up oil prices and disrupted the global economy, effects we are still working through. Keir was right to stand firm in the face of Trump’s demands and those of opposition like Farage and Badenoch who wished to launch us fully into a war which was not ours. By contrast, he stood firm and did the right thing. He kept us out...as Wilson kept the UK out of Viet Nam. On public services, waiting lists fell by over 300,000 in a year, the largest drop in sixteen years, and cancer death rates reached record lows. Net migration also fell by 80% from its peak under the last Government Domestically, these achievements were significant and crucial, but we also had much work to do on rebuilding the UK’s presence on the international stage. Keir really stood tall on the world stage: leading support for Ukraine, rebuilding relations with Europe, recognising the state of Palestine, and managing an often-unpredictable US administration. Here in Warwick and Leamington, his trade deal with the US, cutting tariffs on the auto industry, provided a vital lifeline, safeguarding thousands of local jobs. I will not pretend there were no mistakes and things we could have done far better, or moved faster on. Nor do I deny that many constituents have yet to feel the full benefits of the change they voted for and we are striving to deliver. We needed to be bolder, more radical, to truly address the economic malaise that has gripped the UK since 2008. But we should not, and cannot, deny that Sir Keir Starmer was a serious and competent Prime Minister. He led us through global headwinds not seen for a generation and laid a solid foundation for our country and Labour to build upon. The responsibility now lies with Andy Burnham and the Labour Party to deliver the bolder, more transformative change our country is crying out for, and do justice to the efforts of Keir, a really decent human being and diligent public servant. He has made enormous sacrifices in recent years to serve, and I, for one, am grateful. As always, please do not hesitate to get in touch if you have any issues or concerns you would like to raise with me. I can be reached at matt.western.mp@parliament.uk or on 01926 882006. Matt Western MP for Warwick and Leamington

Inspiration for the next generation at the British Motor Museum

Thu, 02 Jul 2026 17:00:00 +0100

THERE was plenty of careers inspiration for the next generation at the British Motor Museum. More than 200 children aged 11 to 16 were inspired by games developers, vehicle engineers, and technology innovators at this year’s STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) Week designed and led by the Gaydon-based museum. Through talks and activities delivered by a range of local companies, including Playground Games, Lotus Cars, and WMG Academy for Young Engineers, the children and their teachers emerged from the week with a new enthusiasm for careers in science and engineering. Research by engineering institutions reveals that many young people are unaware of the vast range of rewarding careers available for those with an interest in STEM subjects. From apprenticeships that allow you to ‘earn while you learn’ to specialist degrees that create world-class experts, STEM careers can be accessed at every level. The activities at the British Motor Museum were designed to help young people explore STEM subjects that inspire them and to understand the access pathway that best suits their learning preferences. Claire Broader, the museum’s learning and engagement officer, said: “All around us are examples of the amazing things achieved by scientists and engineers. We brought together some inspirational examples from world-leading local businesses. These include designing supercars, developing electric vehicle technologies, and programming a world-leading driving game, ‘Forza Horizon’. Each example came to life thanks to a fantastic group of experts from the partner companies. It was wonderful seeing the excitement as the children realised that they could do it too.”

Heatwave Leaves Garden Birds Struggling for Food as Ground Bakes Hard

Thu, 02 Jul 2026 15:23:13 +0100

As we enter another spell of exceptionally hot weather, wildlife experts are urging people not only to provide water for birds but also to consider how heatwaves affect their ability to find food.

While most people are aware that birds need fresh water during hot weather, fewer realise that prolonged heat can make feeding far more difficult for species such as robins, blackbirds and thrushes.

Many garden birds rely heavily on worms, insects and other invertebrates found in the soil. However, during hot, dry conditions the ground can become hard and compacted, forcing worms to retreat deeper underground where birds cannot reach them. Natural water sources can also dry up, while insects become less abundant or harder to find. Wildlife organisations warn that food shortages can become a serious problem during extended periods of heat. The situation can be particularly challenging during the summer breeding season. Parent birds must find enough food not only for themselves but also for hungry chicks, all while coping with high temperatures and dehydration. Experts say birds can quickly become exhausted if they have to spend longer searching for food and water.

Why Robins Can Struggle

Robins are among the species most affected by hard ground because much of their diet consists of worms, beetles, larvae and other creatures found close to the soil surface. When the ground dries out, these food sources become far less accessible. Blackbirds face similar difficulties. Many gardeners will have seen blackbirds hopping across lawns after rain in search of worms. During a heatwave, that food source can largely disappear as worms burrow deeper into cooler soil.

How You Can Help

Wildlife groups say a few simple actions can make a significant difference.

Provide fresh water every day

A shallow dish, bird bath or even a plant saucer filled with clean water can help birds drink and cool themselves. Water should be changed daily, especially during very hot weather.

Create shady areas

Trees, hedges, shrubs and even large potted plants provide important shelter from the sun. Birds often seek cover during the hottest part of the day to avoid overheating.

Offer suitable food

Food can help birds when natural supplies become scarce. However, feeding advice has changed in recent years. The RSPB now recommends avoiding seeds and peanuts between May and October because of concerns about disease transmission at crowded feeders. Instead, small amounts of protein-rich foods such as mealworms, suet products and fat balls are recommended, alongside rigorous feeder hygiene.

Keep gardens wildlife-friendly

Leaving some areas slightly wild can help retain moisture in the soil and provide habitat for insects that birds depend upon. Ponds, log piles and dense planting can also offer valuable shelter during hot weather.

Small Actions Can Save Lives

Wildlife charities say that while heatwaves are becoming more common, simple actions by householders can provide a lifeline for local wildlife. A bowl of water, a little shade and some carefully chosen food may not seem much, but for a thirsty robin or exhausted blackbird searching for food in a baked garden, they can make all the difference.

GOOD FOODS FOR ROBINS:

Live mealworms One of the best foods you can offer.
Rich in protein and very close to a robin’s natural diet.
Particularly valuable during the breeding season. Soaked dried mealworms A good alternative to live mealworms.
Soak them in water for 20–30 minutes first, especially during hot weather.
This helps prevent dehydration. Chopped apples Small pieces are best.
Popular with robins, blackbirds and thrushes. Pears Soft, ripe pears cut into small chunks can be readily eaten. Halved grapes Excellent during warm weather because of their water content.
Cut them in half to make them easier and safer for birds to eat. Soft berries Strawberries, raspberries, blackberries and blueberries can all be offered.
Cut larger fruits into smaller pieces. Banana Soft and easy for birds to eat.
Place small pieces on a bird table or feeding tray. Mild grated cheese Provides protein and fat.
Offer in moderation and only small amounts. Crushed or chopped peanuts Never whole peanuts during the nesting season.
Use only unsalted peanuts. Crumbled boiled egg High in protein.
Often appreciated by robins and other insect-eating birds.

What NOT to Feed

Do NOT Feed Bread (very little nutritional value) Do NOT Feed Milk (birds cannot digest it) Do NOT Feed Salty foods Do NOT Feed Mouldy fruit Do NOT Feed Cooking fats or dripping in hot weather Do NOT Feed Whole peanuts during the nesting season The Best Heatwave Combination If you want to help robins right now during the July heat, wildlife experts would probably recommend: A shallow dish of fresh water
A handful of soaked mealworms
A few halved grapes
Some chopped apple
A shaded feeding area You can also lightly water a corner of your lawn in the evening. This softens the soil and may encourage worms closer to the surface, making it easier for robins and blackbirds to feed naturally the following morning. Many gardeners report that a robin will quickly learn where food is being left and become a regular visitor, especially during dry spells when natural food is scarce.

Online catalogue makes Warwick Castle archive more accessible

Thu, 02 Jul 2026 12:00:00 +0100

WARWICK Castle’s archive is now more accessible thanks to the launch of a new online catalogue. After nearly five years of work, the Heritage and Culture Warwickshire (HCW) team has completed the comprehensive catalogue, making the collection easier to explore for researchers, residents and history enthusiasts alike. The Warwick Castle collection, which is publicly owned and held at the County Record Office in Warwick, includes maps, legal records, letters, drawings and printed material. Much of the archive dates from 1604, when Fulke Greville was granted the castle by James I, through to its sale in 1978, with some records dating back to the 12th century. Collection highlights include medieval records relating to Alcester Abbey, Elizabethan Navy account books, First World War letters written by Anthony Eden, and correspondence from the various countesses of Warwick. This major cataloguing project has brought together earlier attempts from the 19th and 20th centuries and significantly expanded them, adding thousands of new entries – many describing material that had rarely been explored. In doing so, it has revealed untold stories not only about the Greville family, but also about the people who lived and worked at Warwick Castle. The work represents a major milestone in opening up the archive, transforming it from a largely hidden resource into one that can now be fully explored and understood. Warwickshire County Council acquired the archive in 1978, ensuring it remained in public ownership. WCC’s heritage spokesperson Coun Darren Cheshire, Portfolio Holder for Environment, Heritage and Culture, said: “This is a remarkable collection of national significance, and this catalogue opens it up for everyone to explore. We’re proud to be making Warwickshire’s history more accessible for future generations.”

Have You Discovered the SpinPlus Game on GZone? Learn How It Works

Thu, 02 Jul 2026 10:15:24 +0100

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ANGLING - Darts superstar Luke Litter to feature in Fishing Championship charity event in Warwick

Thu, 02 Jul 2026 09:00:17 +0100

DARTS superstar Luke Littler will swap arrows for angling later this summer in this year's Target Sport Stars Fishing Championship in Warwick.

The one-day charity fishing event will take place at Tunnel Barn Farm with Littler heading a list of top sports stars who will feature in the tournament.

Littler recently won the World Cup of Darts representing England and also counts two World Championships and two Premier League titles among his honours in the sport at the age of 19-year-old. 'The Nuke' has competed in each of the last two Fishing Championships and features in a 32-strong field split into eight teams of four. Legendary promoter Barry Hearn, former world champion boxer Tony Bellew and former England goalkeeper David Seaman will also take part in the charity competition.

Event organiser and chairman of JBD Media and Events, Jess Harding said: "The Target Sport Stars Fishing Championship 2026 is a much-loved event that is getting bigger and bigger every year. "We’re privileged that titans from the sporting world want to get stuck in, and although it’s a fun charity event, the competitors are used to operating at an elite level - everyone wants to win. "The beauty of fishing is that anyone can take part and has a chance of reeling something in, particularly at our competition lake. "Last year, someone who had never fished before won the singles title - that’s why we love it." Matchroom Sport chairman, Hearn added: "Everyone who knows me, knows I love to win. "The competition at the Target Sport Stars Fishing Championship 2026 gets fiercer every single year."

The event will raise £40,000 for charity with the fund shared with the competition's lead charity partner The Willow Foundation, established by former Arsenal goalkeeper Bob Wilson. The competition will also support the St Francis Hospice, Haven House, the Ricky Hatton Foundation and Alex - The Leukodystrophy Charity.

Founder of the Willow Foundation, Wilson said: "We’re extremely grateful that the team at Target Sport Stars Fishing Championship continues to support the vital work of the Willow Foundation. "The event brings together some of the biggest names from the world of sport and we thank all the competitors and sponsors in creating this ’special day’ which allows us to create our own Willow Special Days that provide hope, smiles, and an experience to remember for young adults living with life-threatening illnesses in the UK."

ITV will broadcast the event following the completion of the tournament which takes place on Tuesday, July 28 at Tunnel Barn Farm in Warwick.

Inspirational Warwick cyclist completes mammoth charity bike ride

Thu, 02 Jul 2026 07:00:00 +0100

AN INSPIRATIONAL Warwick man has cycled a gruelling 220-miles in under a day to raise vital funds for Ambitious about Autism. David Carro, who grew up in Puebla, Mexico, before moving to the UK, took on the iconic Manchester to London challenge on Sunday (June 28). The event saw participants set off from the Manchester Marriott Victoria and Albert Hotel at dawn and cycle through the rolling Pennines and Chilterns before crossing the finish line at Rapha HQ in North London that night. Ambitious about Autism is the national charity standing with autistic children and young people. The charity started as one school and has become a movement for change. It champions rights, campaigns for change and creates opportunities. Manchester to London (M2L) was created in 2014 by Simon Mottram, the founder and former CEO of Rapha, and to date has raised over £1.6 million for Ambitious about Autism. Simon, and his wife, Lucy, are ambassadors for the charity. Simon and Lucy’s son Oscar attended the charity’s specialist TreeHouse School and Ambitious College in London. Six months ago, 40 year-old David was in an accident while cycling, resulting in him having to undergo surgery. Following this, he endured months of post-surgery recovery to rebuild his physical and mental health. Despite this experience, keen cyclist David was not put off and got back on his bike to take on what he describes as his “biggest endurance challenge yet”. David continued: “The accident has given me a different perspective on things. Now, cycling is no longer just about chasing speed or distance it’s about making a positive impact. That’s why I chose to take part in this challenge for Ambitious about Autism – an incredible charity making a difference to the lives of autistic children and young people across the UK.” David is one of 180 riders who took part in this year’s challenge. This was one of the largest groups of participants in the event’s history. Danae Leaman-Hill, spokesperson for Ambitious about Autism, added: “The scale of the Manchester to London ride reflects the scale of the challenge facing many autistic young people and their families. “We want to say an enormous thank you to David for rising to this challenge and taking on this incredible feat in aid of our work. David’s commitment to raising both awareness and vital funds is inspiring and will make a real difference to the lives of autistic children and young people.” Visit ambitious220.ambitiousaboutautism.org.uk/fundraisers/davidcarro/manchester-to-london26 to donate.

Warwickshire residents urged to keep their eyes peeled for terrorism

Wed, 01 Jul 2026 17:00:00 +0100

EAGLE-eyed residents are being urged to help keep Warwickshire safe against terrorism. Warwickshire County Council and Safer Warwickshire partners are running a Counter Terrorism summer campaign and want everyone to trust their instincts and report anything that doesn’t feel right as the busy summer events season gets under way. With recent changes to the UK’s threat level, it’s more important than ever that Warwickshire event organisers and businesses across the county do their part to keep customers and the public safe this summer. Event-goers should stay alert to people filming security gates, doors or CCTV, or anything that doesn’t feel right when they are out and about and report it to staff, security or police. Alternatively they can report it to gov.uk/ACT. In an emergency call 999. WCC’s community safety spokesperson Coun Robert Gisbourne said: “We can all play an important role in keeping our communities safe. No one knows your surroundings better than you, so you’re best placed to notice when something doesn’t feel right – whether you’re out enjoying the summer, travelling to work, or at home. “Let’s look out for one another this summer. If something doesn’t seem right, trust your instincts and report it.”

20 years of transformation at West Midlands Ambulance Service

Wed, 01 Jul 2026 16:14:00 +0100

WEST Midlands Ambulance Service (WMAS) is celebrating two decades since it was set up by combining several county ambulance services into a single regional organisation serving more than six million people.

Over those 20 years, WMAS said it has transformed every aspect of the service from clinical care and technology to fleet, estates and workforce development helping establish it as one of the UK’s leading ambulance services.

Ambulance staff now take less than half of the patients that call 999 to hospital using advanced assessment either in person or over the phone to make a diagnosis and provide treatment at the scene or through direct referral to community services. Investment in digital technology, electronic patient records, vehicle tracking and modern communications has enabled crews to make faster, more informed clinical decisions including letting receiving hospitals see data in real time on the patients being brought to them. The Trust has also invested significantly in its infrastructure that staff work from, developing modern operational hubs which include modern facilities for staff so that they have good facilities for downtime and learning. They also include hi-tech fleet support, vehicles are made ready for the next shift by dedicated staff and the most modern leet in any ambulance service in the UK. As the UK’s first University Ambulance Service, WMAS has also helped drive the professionalisation of paramedicine through education, research and specialist clinical roles. This now includes the first degree apprenticeship where staff undertake all of their training within WMAS, the first such course in the country. Over the past 20 years, WMAS has reached several landmark milestones, including becoming an NHS Foundation Trust in 2013 and the UK’s first University Ambulance Service in 2018. It has also responded to some of the most significant challenges in modern healthcare, including the COVID-19 pandemic, major weather events, national emergencies and the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games.

Chief executive officer Anthony Marsh said: “As we celebrate 20 years since the creation of the merged West Midlands Ambulance Service, I want to thank every member of staff for the incredible difference you make every day. “Whether responding during the recent heatwave, supporting our communities through the pandemic, or dealing with the many challenges we’ve faced over the past two decades, our staff have always worked together to provide the very best emergency healthcare. “During that time we’ve transformed as an organisation, embracing new technology, modernising our fleet and estates, developing our workforce and continually improving the care we provide to patients. “I’m immensely proud of everything we’ve achieved together over the last 20 years, and I look forward to seeing the service continue to innovate and deliver outstanding care for many more years to come.”

Playtime is platinum standard at Wellesbourne Primary School

Wed, 01 Jul 2026 12:00:00 +0100

PLAYTIME at Wellesbourne Primary School is officially platinum standard. The school has achieved its OPAL (Outdoor Play and Learning) Platinum Award, placing it among the very best primary schools in the country for the quality of its outdoor play and lunchtime provision. Over the past two years, the Wellesbourne team has been committed to transforming play opportunities for every child, resulting in a final audit score of 98 per cent. Children now enjoy access to a wide range of play equipment, including sandpits, mud kitchens, mud play areas, slacklines, outdoor arts and crafts, scooter zones, potion laboratories and much more. The schools OPAL play lead Caroline Wiggins said: “Very few schools achieve such a high percentage on their first OPAL award. This now places Wellesbourne CE Primary in the top two per cent of schools nationally for playtimes. “This award means a great deal to us because it recognises the hard work of our whole school community and the importance we place on children’s wellbeing, creativity, confidence and social development.”

Save Water, Save Money and Keep Your Garden Thriving This Summer

Wed, 01 Jul 2026 10:56:47 +0100

With much of the UK experiencing unusually hot and dry weather, gardeners are facing a familiar summer dilemma: how do you keep plants healthy without wasting water?

As temperatures continue to soar and hosepipe bans remain a possibility in some areas, experts say a few simple changes can help gardens survive the heat while reducing water consumption and cutting household bills.

Water Smarter, Not More

One of the biggest mistakes gardeners make during hot weather is watering little and often. Instead, plants benefit from a deep soak every few days rather than a light sprinkle every evening. Watering thoroughly encourages roots to grow deeper into the soil, making plants more resilient during dry spells. The best time to water is early in the morning or late in the evening when temperatures are cooler and less moisture is lost through evaporation.

Collect Every Drop

A summer downpour may seem unlikely during a heatwave, but when rain does arrive it pays to be prepared. Water butts connected to drainpipes can collect hundreds of litres of free water from roofs and sheds. Not only is rainwater environmentally friendly, but many plants prefer it to treated tap water. Even placing buckets outside during a shower can provide enough water for containers and hanging baskets for several days.

Mulch Is Your Best Friend

Covering bare soil with mulch is one of the simplest and most effective ways to conserve moisture. Materials such as bark chips, compost, grass clippings or well-rotted manure help lock water into the soil, reduce evaporation and suppress weeds that compete with plants for moisture. A layer just a few centimetres thick can make a noticeable difference during prolonged hot weather.

Think About What You Grow

Many traditional cottage garden favourites struggle during prolonged dry spells. Gardeners planning ahead may want to consider drought-tolerant plants that thrive in hotter conditions. Lavender, rosemary, salvia, verbena, sedum and ornamental grasses can all provide colour and interest while requiring far less water than thirsty bedding plants. Mediterranean-style planting is becoming increasingly popular as Britain’s summers become warmer.

Don’t Forget Wildlife

While protecting prized roses and vegetables is important, wildlife also needs help during hot weather. A shallow dish of fresh water can provide a lifeline for birds, hedgehogs, bees and other garden visitors. Placing pebbles in water dishes can help insects drink safely without becoming trapped. Garden ponds should also be topped up if water levels fall significantly.

Let Your Lawn Relax

Many gardeners panic when lawns turn brown during a heatwave, but experts say there is usually no cause for concern. Grass naturally becomes dormant during dry periods and often greens up again once rain returns. Unless a lawn is newly laid, it rarely needs watering. Allowing grass to grow slightly longer during summer can also help it retain moisture and remain healthier during periods of drought.

Small Changes, Big Savings

According to water industry estimates, outdoor watering can account for a significant proportion of household water use during summer months. By watering wisely, collecting rainwater and choosing plants suited to Britain’s changing climate, gardeners can reduce their environmental impact while keeping outdoor spaces looking attractive. With July only just beginning and more hot weather potentially on the way, now may be the perfect time to make a few changes that benefit both your garden and your wallet. After all, the greenest gardens are not necessarily those that use the most water, but those that use it most wisely.

Starmer Leaves Successor Facing £4.7bn Defence Funding Gap - NATIONAL NEWS

Wed, 01 Jul 2026 10:49:52 +0100

Sir Keir Starmer’s final major policy announcement before leaving office has been overshadowed by the revelation that almost £5 billion of the defence spending he promised has yet to be funded.

The outgoing Prime Minister unveiled a long-awaited Defence Investment Plan (DIP) on Tuesday, describing it as the biggest sustained increase in defence investment since the Cold War and a vital step towards preparing Britain for an increasingly dangerous world.

The package includes an additional £15 billion for military equipment and capabilities over the next four years, with major investments in drones, warships, nuclear deterrence, munitions, combat aircraft and military infrastructure. Defence spending is expected to rise to 2.7 per cent of GDP by 2030 under the plans. However, Treasury documents released alongside the announcement reveal that only £10.3 billion of the additional funding has so far been identified, leaving a £4.7 billion shortfall to be addressed in a future Budget. That means Andy Burnham, who is widely expected to succeed Sir Keir later this month, will inherit the task of finding the remaining money if the spending commitments are to be fulfilled. The issue became even more politically awkward for the outgoing Prime Minister after Defence Minister Luke Pollard acknowledged that the next Chancellor would have to “find the resources” required to close the funding gap. According to reports, Mr Burnham’s team was only informed of the scale of the shortfall when the Treasury published its financial breakdown alongside the plan. Critics argue the episode raises serious questions about the Government’s handling of defence policy. The Defence Investment Plan was originally expected nearly a year ago but was repeatedly delayed amid disputes over funding. The disagreements ultimately contributed to the resignation of former Defence Secretary John Healey, who argued that the Government was failing to commit sufficient resources to meet Britain’s growing security challenges. Mr Healey renewed those concerns this week, warning that Britain would still be spending only around 2.7 per cent of GDP on defence by 2030 despite NATO warnings that Europe faces an increasingly dangerous security environment. He has repeatedly called for a clear timetable to reach 3 per cent of GDP on defence spending. That timetable remains absent. Although Sir Keir insisted Britain is on a path towards spending 3 per cent of GDP on defence during the next Parliament, he declined to provide a specific target date. Defence experts and some MPs have questioned whether the Government’s plans go far enough given NATO’s ambition for members to move towards spending 3.5 per cent of GDP on core defence by 2035. Questions have also been raised about how the spending increase is being funded. Rather than relying on economic growth or additional borrowing, ministers have chosen to divert money from other parts of government. Departments have been instructed to reduce capital spending, while transport, energy and infrastructure projects are expected to contribute significant savings. The Department for Transport is expected to provide hundreds of millions of pounds in savings, while the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero is expected to contribute around £2 billion. Road schemes including the A38 Derby Junctions project and the A46 Newark Bypass have reportedly been identified as potential casualties of the reprioritisation. Supporters of the plan argue that Britain’s armed forces urgently require investment after years of delays and procurement failures. The package includes more than £5 billion for drone technology and autonomous systems, billions for the Tempest next-generation fighter programme and substantial investment in the UK’s nuclear deterrent and submarine fleet. Yet the central political question remains unresolved. Having spent more than a year negotiating, delaying and revising the Defence Investment Plan, Sir Keir has left office having announced £15 billion of additional spending without fully identifying where all of the money will come from. Whether the remaining £4.7 billion is found through spending cuts, tax rises or further borrowing will now be a decision for the next government.

How to Analyze a Football Match Like a Professional

Wed, 01 Jul 2026 09:29:38 +0100

DO YOU consider yourself a big football fan? If the answer is yes, you probably like to analyze matches while watching them. Maybe you even have ideas on how you would lead the team during the game. But would you like to learn how to analyze football matches like a professional? By reading this article, you can improve your football match analysis and go from a casual football fan to a seasoned football statistics analyst. Preparing Before Kick-Off Your soccer game analysis should start before the game starts. This way, you won’t spend the first 15 minutes trying to figure out what’s happening. You’ll understand the tactics right away during the first minute. Here is how to analyze a soccer game before it even starts: First, research the default formation: check the previous matches of both teams. Which formation do they prefer? 4-3-3? 4-2-3-1? This will show you whether the teams prefer a more defensive or aggressive style. You’ll also notice if the manager has made some significant changes for this match in particular. Assess the risk tolerance. Will your team make riskier decisions to ensure a win, or will it stay more cautious and defensive? This depends on the context of the match. Are the teams competing on who will win the cup or stay in the league? Or is it a mid-season game where the stakes aren’t that high? Finally, check if there will be any changes in the player’s lineup. Maybe there are injured or suspended players who play a key role in the team’s formation and game strategy. Their absence might force the team to completely change its tactics. Finding Reliable Match Information To be able to conduct a meaningful team and player performance analysis, you need reliable match information. You can find this information online, on platforms such as 180Score. These platforms offer historical team performance metrics, including the stats from all previous matches between the two teams. You’ll get deep insights into what happens when two specific teams meet, and help you understand what to expect from their future matches. By finding all relevant data and seeing it all in one place, you notice hidden trends and patterns that you would miss otherwise. Key Statistics to Monitor During a Match There isn’t only one right way to do football data analysis, but some football metrics are essential for understanding what’s actually happening on the field. There is a small catch there, though. Instead of focusing on basic stats (such as goals scored), you should focus on football advanced stats. Here are some of these football stats explained: Expected goals (xG): It shows a mathematical probability for a shot to become a goal. Shot-creating actions (SCA): All offensive actions (passes, dribbles, drawn fouls,...) that lead to a goal. Passes per defensive action (PPDA): How many passes the offensive team will make in the attacking three-quarters before the defense team tries to intercept or challenge. Pass accuracy: The percentage of completed passes compared to the total number of attempted passes. Expected threats (xT): Shows how much danger a player is causing by moving the ball from one zone to another. These are only some of the advanced metrics important for tactical analysis in football, but they are a good start. Once you understand them, you can explore other metrics and learn what they mean for the match you want to analyze. Post-Match Analysis Techniques Once the match is over, your real work begins. Again, don’t focus on the stats everyone can see, but look for hidden details. For example, focus on what happened right before goals were scored. Goals are rarely caused by a goalkeeper’s error. They happen because the midfield structure broke down. Also, look at how metrics changed after scoring goals. When the result is still 0-0, the teams stick to their tactics until one team scores. However, once the team scores 1-0 or even 2-0, this team will change its tactics and become more defensive to protect its lead. The other team will become more aggressive in an attempt to overtake the lead (or at least get a draw). Building Your Own Evaluation Framework To become better at analyzing football matches, here are some tips: Focus on the statistics instead of your emotions, biases, and gut feelings Write everything down instead of trying to memorize it Divide your analysis into several key components (structural compactness, attacking depth, midfield efficiency, etc.) Conclusion Football match analysis is no longer something exclusive to professionals and experts. Even casual sports fans can start to analyze matches and understand the game on a much deeper level. Article written by Keiran Pike

CRICKET - Warwickshire's Jacob Bethell named in England squad for India T20 series

Wed, 01 Jul 2026 09:00:37 +0100

WARWICKSHIRE CCC all-rounder Jacob Bethell features in a 17-player England squad for a T20 series against India.

Bethell has earned 31 England caps in the T20 format and became his country's youngest men’s captain in international cricket on a tour of Ireland last year.

The five-match series begins on Wednesday, July 1 at Chester-le-Street with play to begin at 5.30pm. Uncapped all-rounder James Coles features in the squad for the first time while Saqib Mahmood, Jordan Cox and Sonny Baker all earn recalls to the T20 side. All three recalled players did not play a part in England's 2026 T20 World Cup campaign. Brydon Carse and Jamie Overton are unavailable due to injury.

England men’s national selector, Marcus North, said: "James Coles is an exciting addition and has earned his place following his performances with the England Lions and in T20 competitions here and abroad during the past 12 months. "We have selected a larger squad to accommodate for the fact that this series will begin shortly after the Test series against New Zealand is due to conclude which allows us to be flexible."

Yorkshire's Harry Brook captains the squad which also includes Jofra Archer, Jos Buttler and Adil Rashid.

England vs India T20 schedule

Wednesday, July 1, Chester-le-Street, 5.30pm start Saturday, July 4, Old Trafford, 2.30pm start Tuesday, July 7, Trent Bridge, 5.30pm start Thursday, July 9, Seat Unique Stadium, 5.30pm start Saturday, July 11, Utilita Bowl, 2.30pm start

Leamington's Covent Garden Multi-storey car park reopens today

Wed, 01 Jul 2026 07:00:17 +0100

THERE are now even more parking spaces in Leamington. Covent Garden Multi-Storey car park reopened today (Wednesday), providing just over 100 more parking bays in the town centre. The car park closed in February 2023 leaving some of the surface area car park available for parking, but with the reopening of two floors and some clever use of the space, a further 100 spaces will be available for residents and visitors to the town to use when they visit local businesses and events. There are still two floors which remain out of use, and Warwick District Council is assessing options for how they might be used. The surface area car park has 89 spaces, which includes eight disabled bays and 15 created by clearing up the unsightly bin area and motorcycle bay. The two levels that opened today have a total of 104 spaces which includes six parent and child bays.

Walker Cup Fever Grips Warwickshire Women's Bowls

Tue, 30 Jun 2026 20:37:49 +0100

Why does a sport often dismissed as gentle and unhurried produce some of the most nerve-shredding finishes in the county sporting calendar?

Anyone who has stood beside a packed green in Warwickshire as a women's rink edges towards a national final knows the answer.

The hush before a crucial delivery, the soft click of wood on wood, the collective intake of breath as a bowl curves towards the jack — bowls can be every bit as gripping as a last-over thriller at Edgbaston. And right now, that quiet intensity is reaching boiling point as Warwickshire's women chase glory at the national finals. That same craving for a sharp shot of excitement explains why so many leisure fans across the county pair their love of live sport with a bit of relaxed entertainment between matches. For adults who enjoy comparing the most trusted online casinos available to UK players, the appeal mirrors what draws them to the green in the first place: a moment of suspense, a flutter of anticipation, the small thrill of an uncertain outcome. Independent reviews in this space rank operators on the things that matter to careful players — the welcome offers, the speed of withdrawals, the range of payment methods and the breadth of games — while putting the spotlight firmly on licensed, reputable names. For someone winding down after a tense afternoon watching the rinks, knowing where the safe, well-regarded options sit is genuinely useful.

What Makes the Walker Cup So Special

The Walker Cup is the blue riband of the women's domestic season, the trophy every county side dreams of lifting. It sits at the heart of the Bowls England National Championships (Walker Cup)), a competition with a heritage stretching back generations and a reputation for producing tense, attritional contests decided by the finest of margins. What gives the event its grip is the format itself. Counties field multiple rinks at once, and the result hinges not on a single hero but on the combined effort of dozens of players. A side can be cruising on three greens and find the whole thing slipping away on a fourth. For Warwickshire's women, who have built a steady reputation for resilience, the road to the finals demands consistency week after week — and the kind of cool head under pressure that separates the contenders from the also-rans.

The Quiet Drama on a Warwickshire Green

Spend an hour at a club green in Leamington, Warwick or one of the smaller villages, and the misconceptions melt away. Bowls is a thinking person's sport, all angles and weight and patience, but it is also fiercely competitive. A skip reading the rink, adjusting for a subtle slope or a damp patch, is doing the same mental arithmetic a snooker player does over a tricky pot. The community around it is part of the charm. Members turn up early to roll the green, share a flask of tea, and dissect the previous weekend's results. When a county side goes deep into a national competition, the buzz ripples outward — neighbours ask after the scores, the local clubhouse fills up, and a sport sometimes overlooked in the regional sports pages suddenly commands attention. The build-up matters, too. Previews like this 2026 inter-county preview help followers track form and fixtures, stoking the anticipation long before the first bowl is delivered.

How Fans Balance the Thrill of Live Action

Live sport is unpredictable by nature, and that unpredictability is exactly what keeps people coming back. But no county campaign runs every day of the week. Between matches there are quiet evenings, rain-soaked weekends and long gaps where the next fixture feels an age away. That is where leisure habits diversify. Plenty of adults in Warwickshire fill those gaps with a mix of pastimes — a quiz night at the local, a streaming box-set, a round of golf, or a spot of light online entertainment that scratches the same itch for a quick burst of excitement. The psychology is well documented. Research into how supporters relate to the sports and events they love, including a study on how nostalgia buffers negative emotions and lifts overall well-being, suggests that the anticipation and shared memory around live action carry real emotional value. The thrill is not just in the result; it is in the looking forward, the reminiscing, and the small rituals that surround it.

Excitement, Responsibly Enjoyed

The healthiest way to enjoy any of this is to treat it as one strand of a varied leisure life rather than the whole rope. Bowls fans tend to be a sociable bunch, and the sport's natural rhythm — periods of calm punctuated by sudden tension — is a useful model for balance. The enjoyment comes from savouring the moment, not chasing it relentlessly. For those who do dip into online entertainment between live fixtures, sticking to well-reviewed, licensed names and setting clear limits keeps the experience light and fun. The same instinct that makes a good skip cautious about over-reaching on a risky shot applies neatly here: know the situation, weigh it up, and never let the excitement outrun the plan.

A Summer to Remember on the Greens

As Warwickshire's women press on towards the national finals, the county has a genuine reason to gather round the rinks and cheer. The Walker Cup carries history, drama and the kind of slow-burning tension that repays anyone willing to watch closely. Whether followers experience it greenside with a cup of tea in hand or catch the results from the comfort of home, the appeal is the same — that universal pull of an outcome still hanging in the balance. And when the bowls fall silent for a few days, the wider world of leisure offers plenty of other ways to keep that flicker of anticipation alive, enjoyed sensibly and in good measure.

How Warwickshire Charity Events Embrace Digital Giving

Tue, 30 Jun 2026 20:12:26 +0100

Anyone who has stood pitchside at the Railway Football Tournament knows the routine.

There is the rattle of a collection bucket making its way down the touchline, the raffle tickets passed around at half-time, and the cheerful volunteer at a fold-out table taking cash for a tea and a slice of homemade cake.

For decades this has been the quiet engine room of community fundraising across Warwickshire, from the football clubs of Leamington to the bowls greens of Warwick. Yet the way people actually hand over their money has shifted, and the bucket now sits next to a contactless card reader and a QR code printed on laminated card. That same appetite for quick, frictionless online entertainment has reshaped how Warwickshire residents spend their leisure money more broadly, and digital habits learned at one screen tend to travel to another. The rise of cryptocurrency has fed into this, which is why review guides ranking the best Crypto casinos for UK players have grown into a genuine resource for the curious. These 2026 guides test sites on the speed of withdrawals, the fees attached to deposits, the breadth of the game libraries spanning slots, table games and live dealer rooms, and the quality of customer support, then publish ranked recommendations so a reader can see at a glance what holds up under scrutiny and what does not. For anyone weighing whether digital wallets and tokens have a place in their own leisure time, that kind of tested, plain-spoken comparison answers the questions a casual onlooker would otherwise have to puzzle out alone.

The Bucket Has Gone Cashless

The shift away from coins did not happen overnight, but it has been brisk. Footfall at a charity stall used to depend on whoever happened to have loose change, and in an age where many people leave the house without so much as a fiver, that was becoming a problem. Local organisers noticed donations dipping not because generosity had faded, but because nobody was carrying cash. Contactless readers solved the immediate hurdle. A volunteer at a Warwickshire cricket club fundraiser can now take a tap-and-go donation in seconds, and the donor barely breaks stride. QR codes have pushed this further still, letting someone scan a square on their phone and land directly on a giving page while the match carries on around them.

From Touchline to Tap

The Railway Football Tournament is a useful example of the change in miniature. A grassroots event built on community spirit, it has always relied on small contributions adding up. Where once that meant counting coppers at the end of the day, organisers can now watch a running total tick upwards on a screen, complete with a thermometer-style graphic that supporters seem to find oddly compelling. Research into giving behaviour suggests this is not a coincidence. Studies on digital giving in the arts and cultural fundraising have found that visible, real-time progress encourages people to chip in, because they can see the difference their contribution makes. A pound dropped in a bucket vanishes anonymously. A pound that nudges a progress bar closer to its goal feels like part of something.

Why Online Entertainment and Giving Now Share a Toolkit

There is a neat overlap between how Warwickshire residents are entertained online and how they are asked to give. Both rely on slick, mobile-first design, instant payment options and the reassurance that money moves safely. The skills people pick up streaming a film, ordering a takeaway or topping up a digital wallet transfer directly to the act of donating. Academic work exploring the online charitable giving landscape has mapped just how varied these channels have become, from social media appeals to in-app prompts and one-click pledges. The common thread is convenience. When the barrier to giving drops to a single tap, more people clear it, which is precisely why local clubs have leaned into the technology rather than treating it as a gimmick.

The Psychology of a Single Tap

There is something worth pausing on in the way these small, friction-free moments add up. Behavioural researchers have looked closely at why a quick digital prompt loosens the purse strings more readily than a formal letter or a standing collection. The BBC has reported on how charity apps boost generosity, pointing to round-up features and gentle nudges that fold giving into everyday spending without it ever feeling like a sacrifice. For a Leamington fun run or a Warwick District community appeal, this matters enormously. A donor who might never write a cheque will happily round up a coffee purchase or tap a card at a finish line. The sums look trivial in isolation, yet across an entire event they form a substantial chunk of the final total. Generosity, it turns out, responds to ease.

Keeping the Community Feel Intact

None of this means the human warmth of a Warwickshire fundraiser has been lost. The card reader sits beside the cake stall, not in place of it. The QR code is held aloft by a smiling volunteer, not a faceless screen. Organisers have been careful to keep the personal touch that draws people to local events in the first place, while quietly modernising the mechanics underneath. The next Railway Football Tournament will still smell of fresh-cut grass and bacon rolls, and supporters will still cheer a last-minute goal. What has changed is invisible until the moment someone wants to give. Then the choice is theirs: a coin in a bucket, a contactless tap, a phone scan, or a digital wallet transfer made in seconds. Each route leads to the same place, and that flexibility is exactly what keeps the money flowing and the community spirit thriving across Leamington and the wider county.

How Warwickshire Shoppers Are Using Crypto Wallets

Tue, 30 Jun 2026 20:02:26 +0100

Walk through Leamington's Royal Priors on a Saturday morning and the rhythm of paying for things has quietly changed.

The contactless tap that once felt futuristic now barely registers, and a growing number of shoppers reach for their phone rather than a card or a handful of coins.

Cafés along the Parade, independent boutiques in the Old Town and weekend market stalls all increasingly accept a tap, a scan or a transfer. For a slice of Warwickshire residents, that digital habit has stretched beyond high-street spending into something newer still: holding and using cryptocurrency for everyday purchases, leisure outings and online entertainment.

That shift naturally raises questions about where crypto can actually be spent for leisure, and online gaming is one of the clearest answers. Crypto casinos are sites that let UK players deposit and withdraw using Bitcoin and other digital currencies, and reviews of the field in 2026 rank operators on licensing, security and how quickly transactions settle. Familiar names such as 888Casino, William Hill and BoyleSports appear in these comparisons alongside newer crypto-first options, with coverage explaining how a Bitcoin wallet connects to an account, how bonuses and cashback offers are structured, and what safeguards sit behind each transaction. For residents already comfortable moving money digitally, this is simply the leisure end of a payment method they have started using elsewhere.

From contactless to crypto in everyday spending

The journey to a crypto wallet rarely begins with grand intentions. More often it starts with curiosity. Someone reads about Bitcoin in the financial pages, downloads an app to see what the fuss is about, and ends up holding a small amount of digital currency the way an earlier generation kept a jar of foreign holiday change. The difference is that this currency does not sit idle. Apps make it easy to convert, send or spend at a tap.

Warwickshire is not an obvious crypto hotspot, yet its mix of professionals, students at nearby campuses and tech-minded commuters means the technology has steady, low-key uptake. The Financial Conduct Authority's research on crypto ownership suggests millions of UK adults now hold some form of digital asset, with most describing modest sums treated as a mix of investment and experiment. That broad pattern fits the county neatly: cautious adoption rather than headlong rush.

Shopping, coffee and the cashless county

Spend an afternoon in Warwick or Kenilworth and the everyday uses become visible. A handful of independent retailers and hospitality spots have begun displaying QR codes that let customers settle a bill in cryptocurrency, often converted instantly to sterling on the merchant's side so the shop never carries the price swings itself. For the buyer, it feels no different from any other scan-and-go payment.

The appeal tends to be practical rather than ideological. People who already track their finances through apps, split bills with friends digitally and order their weekly shop online find that a crypto wallet slots into the same routine. It is less about rejecting cash and more about reducing friction. The same instinct that emptied wallets of loose change is now nudging a smaller group towards holding value in a phone rather than a bank card alone.

Leisure time goes digital

Where digital payments really come into their own is leisure. Warwickshire has no shortage of ways to fill a free evening, from a fixture at Leamington FC to a county cricket match, a quiet pint after bowls, or a night in front of a streaming box set. Increasingly, those leisure choices are paid for and enjoyed entirely through a screen.

Online gaming sits comfortably in this picture. Whether it is a subscription to a console service, in-game purchases, or trying a crypto-funded gaming account, the act of paying has become almost invisible. The Office for National Statistics, in its survey of public opinions and social trends, has tracked how Britons spend their leisure hours and disposable income, and the steady drift towards screen-based entertainment is hard to miss. For many residents, a digital wallet is simply the tool that funds that drift.

Why the habit sticks

Convenience explains a lot, but it is not the whole story. There is a generational comfort at play too. People who grew up topping up mobile credit, buying music as downloads and managing accounts through an app rarely think twice about adding crypto to the mix. The mental leap is small, and the speed and simplicity it brings are immediate enough to keep the habit going.

Security is the natural counterweight. The same residents who tap to pay tend to be careful about it, using two-factor checks, sticking to well-reviewed apps and treating any unfamiliar request with suspicion. That caution mirrors the wider county mood: keen on the convenience of going cashless, but wary of being caught out. Local conversations about scams and online safety reflect a community that wants the benefits of digital money without the headaches.

A measured shift, not a revolution

None of this means Leamington has become a crypto stronghold overnight. Cash still changes hands at the farmers' market, and plenty of residents have no interest in digital currency at all. What is unfolding is gentler: a slow widening of how people choose to pay, with crypto wallets taking their place beside cards, contactless and the occasional note.

For those who have adopted them, the wallet has become unremarkable in the best sense. It funds a coffee, a match ticket, an evening of online entertainment, then disappears back into the phone. In a county that values both practicality and a quiet bit of progress, that understated adoption feels entirely in character.

The Myton Hospices' Summer Jackpot is win win

Tue, 30 Jun 2026 17:00:00 +0100

THE MYTON Hospices latest fundraiser is win-win. Launched to help raise an additional £250,000 to fund their vital services, the raffle gives players the chance to win £25,000 – all while supporting their patients living with life-limiting illnesses, and their families across Coventry and Warwickshire. Supporters can purchase tickets online at www.mytonhospice.org/Jackpot, as well as in any of The Myton Hospices’ 25 charity shops across Coventry and Warwickshire or at one of its three hospices. Myton spokesperson Chris Godber said: “Our Summer Jackpot is a fantastic opportunity for supporters to be in with the chance of winning £25,000 while helping to ensure we can continue providing care for people living with life-limiting illnesses and their families. Together, we can help ensure The Myton Hospices is here for everyone who needs us, now and in the future.” The Summer Jackpot Draw will take place on Friday July 31.

Maternity Care in England 'Not Fit for the Future', Landmark Review Finds - NATIONAL NEWS

Tue, 30 Jun 2026 14:50:24 +0100

The Government has pledged urgent action to improve maternity services in England after an independent review concluded that the current system is failing too many women and families.

The report, led by Baroness Valerie Amos and commissioned by the Department of Health and Social Care, found widespread concerns about the quality, consistency and compassion of maternity care across England. It concluded that the system was often fragmented, slow to learn from mistakes and too frequently failed to listen to women when they raised concerns.

Ministers have now promised to move quickly on a series of recommendations, including the creation of a new national maternity and neonatal commissioner to oversee improvements. The review was launched following a series of high-profile maternity scandals across England, including investigations into services at Shrewsbury and Telford, East Kent, Morecambe Bay and Nottingham, where repeated failures in care have been linked to avoidable deaths and serious injuries affecting mothers and babies. Baroness Amos’s team gathered evidence from more than 450 families and visited 12 NHS trusts as part of the review. The report concluded that many women felt they were not being listened to, heard or believed when they raised concerns about their pregnancy or labour. It also found significant variation in standards of care between hospitals and regions. Speaking about the findings, Baroness Amos said maternity services were currently “not fit for the now and not fit for the future”. Among the most urgent recommendations is a major overhaul of maternity triage services. The review found that maternity triage departments are increasingly acting as the equivalent of accident and emergency units for pregnant women, often under considerable pressure. The report recommends that specialist midwives should answer calls, provide timely advice and ensure women who remain concerned are offered face-to-face assessments. The review stated that implementing these changes could save lives and reduce harm. The investigation also highlighted concerns around racism, discrimination and inequality within maternity care. Black women in the UK continue to face significantly higher risks during pregnancy and childbirth than white women. According to the latest data from the NHS and the charity MBRRACE-UK, Black women are around three times more likely to die during pregnancy or shortly after childbirth than white women, while women from Asian backgrounds also face elevated risks. Baroness Amos said disparities in outcomes should be treated as a patient safety issue and monitored more closely by NHS leadership teams. The review’s eight recommendations include the appointment of a national maternity commissioner, improved listening to women and families, stronger accountability and regulation, better leadership, modern digital systems and clearer national standards for maternity and neonatal care. However, some campaign groups and bereaved families expressed disappointment at the findings. The Birth Trauma Association said the report represented a missed opportunity to address issues such as injuries caused during forceps deliveries and the long-term impact of post-traumatic stress on mothers and their partners. Meanwhile, the Maternity Safety Alliance, which has been campaigning for a statutory public inquiry into maternity failures, criticised the proposal for a maternity commissioner. Emily Barley, co-founder of the group, whose daughter Beatrice died at Barnsley Hospital in 2022, argued that placing responsibility for reform in the hands of a single individual risked concentrating too much power in one role. Questions have also been raised about whether a new commissioner alone can deliver the scale of change required. Donna Ockenden, who led the investigation into maternity failings at Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust and previously examined services in Shrewsbury and Telford, said she was disappointed that many of the problems identified were issues that had been highlighted repeatedly in previous inquiries. Her Nottingham review, published in 2025, identified more than 2,500 cases of concern and was described as the largest maternity investigation in NHS history. Dr Bill Kirkup, who has led previous inquiries into maternity failures at Morecambe Bay and East Kent, reportedly resigned as one of the review’s clinical advisers following disagreements over some of its conclusions. Despite the criticism, many campaigners welcomed the report’s recognition that listening to women must be viewed as a core patient safety issue rather than simply a matter of patient experience. The Government has described the review as a landmark investigation and says it will publish a national maternity action plan by December. Ministers have also announced £41 million of additional funding aimed at improving safety in maternity and neonatal services. Approximately 600,000 babies are born in England each year. While the vast majority of pregnancies and births are completed safely, the review concludes that significant reforms are needed if public confidence in maternity services is to be restored and future tragedies prevented.

Former Defence Secretary Warns Britain Still Not Spending Enough on Defence Despite New £15bn Investment Plan - NATIONAL NEWS

Tue, 30 Jun 2026 14:38:29 +0100

Former Defence Secretary John Healey has warned that Britain will still not be spending enough on defence despite Sir Keir Starmer announcing an extra £15 billion for the armed forces.

The intervention came as the Prime Minister unveiled his long-awaited Defence Investment Plan on Tuesday, one of the final major policy announcements before his departure from Downing Street.

Mr Healey, who resigned earlier this month following disagreements over military spending, said the new funding package was welcome but still failed to meet the level of investment many defence experts believe is necessary. He said:

“Today is the next down-payment for defence. It builds on the record defence investment Labour in government has already made. “But Britain will still be spending just 2.7 per cent of GDP in 2030, the date when Nato has warned we could face a Russian attack.”

Mr Healey left the Cabinet after reportedly becoming frustrated by what he saw as a lack of urgency from both No 10 and the Treasury in increasing defence spending. At the time, he said the Prime Minister was “unable” and the Treasury was “unwilling” to commit the resources needed to properly strengthen Britain’s armed forces. The package announced this week is larger than the £13.5 billion increase that had previously been under discussion before Mr Healey’s resignation. Following further negotiations between the Treasury and Defence Secretary Dan Jarvis, the figure was increased to £15 billion. The Defence Investment Plan will see billions of pounds invested in new military technology, ammunition production, cyber security and Britain’s nuclear deterrent over the coming years. A major element of the package is a £5 billion commitment to drones and autonomous weapons systems, reflecting the growing role such technology has played during the war in Ukraine. Defence officials say future conflicts are likely to rely increasingly on artificial intelligence, unmanned aircraft and advanced battlefield technology. The Government says the overall package will increase annual defence spending to almost £80 billion by the end of the decade, taking spending to around 2.7 per cent of national economic output by 2030. Sir Keir has argued that the investment is necessary because the world has become a more dangerous place, with ongoing conflict in Ukraine, growing geopolitical tensions and increased threats from hostile states. However, questions remain about whether the level of spending will be sufficient. Mr Healey used his intervention to urge Andy Burnham, who is widely regarded as the favourite to succeed Sir Keir as Labour leader and Prime Minister, to commit to increasing defence spending further. He called on Mr Burnham to set out a timetable for reaching 3 per cent of GDP on defence and to provide what he described as a “clear, credible funding plan” to meet Nato’s target of spending 3.5 per cent of GDP by 2035. The issue has become increasingly important across Europe since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022. At the recent Nato summit, alliance members reaffirmed their commitment to increasing defence spending as concerns continue over the future security of Europe and the growing threat posed by hostile states. Several of Britain’s allies are already planning to spend considerably more on defence than the UK. Germany is expected to spend around 3.7 per cent of GDP on defence by 2030 following a major expansion of its armed forces, while Poland is already spending more than 4 per cent of GDP. Sweden has also committed to reaching 3.5 per cent by the end of the decade. Military experts have repeatedly warned that Britain’s armed forces face significant challenges after years of budget pressures and reductions in personnel. The British Army currently has around 70,000 trained regular soldiers, making it the smallest standing army the country has maintained for centuries. Concerns have also been raised about stockpiles of ammunition, military equipment and the pace at which new capabilities can be brought into service. The Government insists the new investment plan marks the biggest sustained increase in defence spending since the end of the Cold War and represents a major step towards rebuilding Britain’s military strength. Ministers have said the money will be focused on modernising the armed forces and ensuring they are equipped to deal with future threats, including cyber attacks, drone warfare and other emerging technologies. Funding for the package is expected to come largely through reallocating existing government spending rather than additional borrowing, although details of how all the commitments will be financed are still emerging. For Sir Keir, the announcement is likely to form a significant part of his legacy in office. However, Mr Healey’s comments underline a debate that is unlikely to disappear any time soon: whether Britain is investing quickly enough in its national security at a time of growing international uncertainty. With Labour preparing for a leadership transition and defence now firmly back at the centre of political debate, pressure is likely to remain on ministers to demonstrate that the UK’s armed forces have the resources they need to meet future challenges.

Warwickshire Police Commissioner chooses preferred candidate to be county's next chief constable

Tue, 30 Jun 2026 12:00:00 +0100

THE WARWICKSHIRE Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) has chosen his preferred candidate to be the force’s next chief constable. Philip Seccombe has named Emma Bond for the top job. She is currently assistant chief constable for local policing at Police Scotland. Prior to that she had 23 years of experience policing in Northern Ireland and was awarded an MBE for services to policing and the community in 2019. Her selection follows a recruitment process led by the PCC’s office. Candidates were assessed through a series of stages before a final panel interview chaired by Mr Seccombe, supported by an independent member and a chief constable from another force. Ms Bond will appear before the Warwickshire Police and Crime Panel for a confirmation hearing in public, expected to take place on July 13. The panel will review the selection process and consider the appointment before giving their view. The role of chief constable carries responsibility for the operational leadership of policing across Warwickshire. Mr Seccombe said: “From the outset, it was important to me to identify a chief constable who not only has the leadership skills required for the role, but also the determination and judgement to meet the challenges facing Warwickshire. “Throughout the assessment process, Emma stood out. She demonstrated clear leadership, a strong understanding of the demands of modern policing, and a commitment to delivering for the public. “The interview panels all spoke highly of her and their feedback, alongside my own assessment, gives me confidence that Emma is well-placed to lead Warwickshire Police and to work with partners and communities across the county.” If the Police and Crime Panel supports the commissioner’s preferred candidate, he will make a formal appointment, subject to vetting checks. In the interim, David Gardner will continue to lead the force as acting chief constable.

Three in Five Homes Still Unsold After Six Months as Housing Market Slows - NATIONAL NEWS

Tue, 30 Jun 2026 11:43:37 +0100

Three out of every five homes put up for sale at the start of 2026 were still on the market by the end of June, according to new property data that suggests Britain’s housing market is losing momentum amid higher borrowing costs, economic uncertainty and political upheaval.

Analysis from property portal Zoopla found that around 60 per cent of homes listed for sale in January had yet to secure a buyer by June.

The figures come as sales agreed during the four weeks to 21 June were running seven per cent lower than during the same period last year, while buyer demand has fallen by around 15 per cent year-on-year. The slowdown marks a significant change from the more optimistic start to the year, when falling mortgage rates had encouraged more buyers back into the market. However, mortgage costs rose sharply during the spring, with average rates reaching around five per cent in April before easing slightly. Zoopla estimates that monthly mortgage repayments on a typical new loan are now substantially higher than they were at the beginning of the year. The latest figures suggest flats are proving particularly difficult to sell. One and two-bedroom apartments, which are often purchased by first-time buyers, remain the weakest-performing sector, with around two-thirds still unsold after being listed since January. House price growth for flats has also fallen into negative territory nationally. Regional differences remain stark. Wales recorded the largest annual decline in agreed sales, down 12 per cent, followed by the Midlands at 11 per cent and the East of England at 10 per cent. Meanwhile, parts of northern England and Scotland continue to outperform southern regions, reflecting stronger affordability and tighter housing supply. Industry experts have pointed to a combination of economic and political factors behind the weaker market. Alongside rising mortgage rates and political uncertainty has added to buyer caution. Questions over future tax policy, housing reforms and the contents of the next Budget have encouraged many prospective purchasers to adopt a wait-and-see approach. The wider housing market is also facing other pressures. The end of more generous stamp duty thresholds for first-time buyers, ongoing concerns about leasehold costs and service charges, and continuing affordability challenges have all weighed on demand. Bank of England figures show mortgage approvals have fallen to their lowest level since late 2023, underlining the more subdued mood among buyers. Despite the slowdown, house prices have not collapsed. Zoopla’s latest data shows the average UK home is worth around £272,000, approximately 1.4 to 1.5 per cent higher than a year ago. However, growth has slowed significantly and remains uneven across the country, with London and parts of the South East continuing to see flat or falling prices while northern regions record stronger gains. Recent figures from Rightmove also point to a cooling market. Asking prices fell by 0.6 per cent in June, the largest monthly June decline recorded in 14 years, as sellers adjusted expectations in response to increased competition and weaker buyer demand. Property analysts say correctly priced homes continue to sell, but buyers now have more choice than at any point in recent years. With political uncertainty, tax speculation and mortgage affordability all remaining key concerns, many expect the housing market to remain subdued through the second half of 2026 unless borrowing costs fall further and confidence returns.

There ain't no mountain high enough for Pete and his paraplegic son

Tue, 30 Jun 2026 07:00:00 +0100

AN INTREPID fundraiser has scaled the Three Peaks while carrying his paraplegic son – as a way of giving back to the Warwick charity that helped them. Pete Haslam worked as a team with 15 friends and family members to bring 11-year-old Ted along for the trip – a 23-mile trek across the three mountains, in England, Scotland and Wales – all in aid of Molly Ollys. The youngster was left paralysed at the age of three, after being diagnosed with Stage 4 Burkitt’s Lymphoma, an aggressive form of spinal tumour. Pete said: “His back was hurting but he was only young and couldn’t articulate what the problem was – but on this particular morning, his legs just stopped working. Turns out the tumour was doubling in size every 24 hours.” Ted was rushed into six hours of surgery at Birmingham Children’s Hospital on the same day but the family were warned that compression on the spinal cord is irreversible and his level of function at the time would likely not improve. Today, Ted stays as active as possible, including undergoing weekly play-centred physio and mobility sessions. But Pete says he’s always been determined to involve his son in the fundraising challenges which this time, saw them ascend a total of more than 10,000 metres across the course of a weekend. Four teams of four, on rotation, carried and pushed Ted in his wheelchair, over Snowdon, Scalfell Pike and Ben Nevis in a gruelling charity mission that took around 30 hours to complete. It was all in aid of Warwick-based children’s charity Molly Ollys, which donated soft play equipment to Ted halfway through his intensive treatment programme. Molly Ollys was established in 2011 by Rachel and Tim Ollerenshaw, from Warwick, following the death of their eight-year-old daughter Molly from a rare kidney cancer. The charity works to support children with terminal or life-limiting illnesses and their families and help with their emotional wellbeing. As well as providing wishes, they donate therapeutic toys and books to both children directly and to hospitals throughout the UK. Although not the first, this was certainly the toughest fundraising feat Pete has undertaken for the charity. As one of the oldest in the group at 53, Pete admits he’ was grateful for the support he got from the rest of the team, which included an ex-Royal Marine, ex-Fire Service and ex-policeman. Pete added: “We did the Snowdon Push for the last three years in aid of a charity called Back up. Last year we did Ben Nevis with Ted and he loved it. This year we said we’re going to do the Three Peaks before he gets too heavy.” Visit www.justgiving.com/page/peter-haslam-1778098385077 to donate.

Social Media Is Pulling the UK Gambling Black Market Into Plain View

Mon, 29 Jun 2026 21:54:53 +0100

Entain’s latest research suggests the route to stumbling on illegal gambling sites in the UK is now easier to miss. The gateway can be a short clip, a football-focused account, or a familiar online personality promoting a brand without a UK license. That is the concern in Entain’s open-source intelligence report published on 17 June 2026. The owner of Ladbrokes and Coral says unlicensed gambling promotion is being pushed toward UK audiences through mainstream social platforms, with young men aged 14 to 25 close to the content stream.

Entain’s Black Market Research Discoveries

Entain examined activity across seven platforms: Kick, Instagram, , YouTube, TikTok, Facebook, and Twitch. Researchers logged 72 UK-facing entries, linked them to 44 influencer, clipper, or tipster entities, and identified more than 30 websites outside the British licensing regime. The company did not frame the pattern as stray posts. It described a connected promotional network that uses social reach, affiliate incentives, and sports-adjacent content to draw attention to offshore gambling brands. Bejay Patel, Entain’s UK and Ireland managing director, said the activity is “not operating at the fringes but is now operating at scale in the UK.”

H2: Key Findings From the Social Media Gambling Probe

The report’s most striking detail is how ordinary the promotion can look at first glance. A clip is cut for entertainment, a tip is posted in familiar betting language, or a streamer’s code is presented as part of the show, while the gambling site's licensing status may be buried, blurred, or missing entirely.

- Illegal gambling promotion was identified across seven mainstream platforms, including TikTok, YouTube, Instagram, and Twitch.
- Entain linked UK-facing activity to more than 30 unregulated gambling sites.
- Influencers, clippers, and tipster-style accounts helped move offshore gambling messages into social feeds.
- Some football fans and betting accounts appeared to publish identical tips at the same time, pointing to coordinated affiliate behavior.
- Age checks and customer safeguards were described as weak, inconsistent, or easy to bypass.
- Kick stood out as a hub for gambling streamer content, with referral codes traveling beyond the livestream.

H2: Why the Legal Market Looks Different

A social post rarely shows the machinery behind a gambling brand. Licensed operators must follow UK Gambling Commission rules on age checks, safer gambling tools, complaint handling, advertising standards, and anti-money laundering checks. And herein lies the problem: An offshore operator can copy the look and language of a legal brand while avoiding the duties that come with it. That distinction is where regulated UK online casino sites sit apart from the social media gambling ads appearing in influencer feeds. The difference is not only about branding or web design, but also about whether a player is dealing with a business that can be investigated, fined, sanctioned, or ordered to change course by a UK regulator.

H2: Why Platform Enforcement Is So Difficult

The UK Gambling Commission’s disruption work shows how wide the enforcement task has become. Since April 2024, the regulator has reported action against illegal gambling websites, payment routes, search visibility, and social accounts. This sort of pressure can make individual brands harder to find, but social distribution keeps opening new lanes. A website can be blocked, removed from search results, or cut off from a payment provider. However, the promotion around it can still reappear via a short clip, a new handle, a mirror link, or a fresh referral code. So, for regulators, the problem is no longer only the destination site. It is the marketing layer rebuilding around it.

The World Cup Gives the Network More Oxygen

Tournament football gives offshore promoters a crowded room to play with. Every fixture creates conversation, betting curiosity, and short-lived attention. Without coincidence, Entain’s warning landed as the 2026 World Cup was getting underway, which made the research feel less like a policy note and more like a live stress test. Illegal gambling operators can borrow trust from the feed: a football creator’s tone, a familiar betting format, a streamer’s personality, or a tip that appears to be everywhere at once. For a young viewer, the route from content to signup can feel casual rather than risky.

The Next Fight Will Happen in the Feed

Baroness Twycross, the UK gambling minister, has signaled that illegal gambling advertising is a priority, while also saying the government does not currently plan fresh advertising legislation. That leaves a difficult space between regulation, platform responsibility, and pressure from a licensed sector that says excessive restrictions could push customers toward unlicensed brands. The next phase of the UK gambling black market fight will not be simple. Enforcement still needs blocked sites, payment disruption, and search removals, but the social layer is where the market now breathes. Offshore operators are learning to look less like outsiders and more like part of the sports conversation. Ultimately, the threat gets harder to spot and harder to shut down before the next link circulates. Article written by Dave Mannion

Burnham Faces Questions Over First Major Speech After Refusing Media Q&A - NATIONAL NEWS

Mon, 29 Jun 2026 17:46:38 +0100

Andy Burnham faced criticism on Monday after refusing to answer questions from journalists following a major speech setting out his vision for Britain, with opponents arguing that the Labour front-runner had devoted more time to constitutional reform and devolution than to issues such as immigration, crime and border security.

The speech, delivered in Manchester on Monday, was intended to set out Burnham’s vision for the country and mark the start of a new chapter for Labour following Sir Keir Starmer’s departure.

However, journalists were informed in advance that there would be no opportunity to question the Labour leader after the address, a decision that immediately attracted criticism from political opponents and commentators. The move meant there was no chance to seek clarification on several aspects of his proposals or to challenge him on issues that featured only briefly, or not at all, during the speech. While Burnham spoke extensively about devolving power away from Westminster, strengthening regional government and creating a “No 10 North” in Manchester, there was comparatively little discussion of immigration, border security, the small boats crisis, crime or defence. Those issues consistently rank among the public’s biggest concerns in national opinion polls. Instead, Burnham focused on what he described as the need to “rewire” Britain, arguing that too much power remains concentrated in London and that local communities should have greater control over transport, housing, skills and economic development. He pledged a major programme of council house building, reforms to technical education and greater powers for regional leaders. Supporters argue that Burnham’s experience as Mayor of Greater Manchester gives him a strong understanding of how decisions made closer to communities can deliver better outcomes for residents. Critics, however, questioned whether the speech focused too heavily on political structures and governance rather than the day-to-day issues affecting many families and businesses. One observer told this newspaper:

“After nearly an hour setting out his vision for Britain, Burnham spent more time discussing councils, mayors, regional structures and constitutional reform than he did discussing immigration, border security, crime or defence. For a man who wants to be Prime Minister, that is a revealing set of priorities. “It felt more like a speech from a metro mayor than a statesman preparing to lead the country.”

However, another journalist at the event took a very different view:

“Burnham spoke about how to fix the system rather than simply manage its decline. He was making a long-term argument about power, accountability and economic renewal. It may not have contained all the answers, but it was a serious speech from a politician who clearly believes in something. “I don’t agree with him fleeing though. He should have answered our questions.”

Questions have also been raised about how some of the proposals would be funded, although Burnham reiterated his commitment to Labour’s fiscal rules and maintaining sound public finances. For communities across the country, some of the proposals could eventually lead to greater local control over transport, housing and economic development decisions. But with few detailed policy announcements and no opportunity for journalists to put questions directly to the Labour leader, much remains unclear about how his plans would work in practice. The speech nevertheless offered the clearest indication yet of Burnham’s priorities as Labour leader, with devolution, regional growth and local decision-making set to play a central role in his agenda. Whether voters are persuaded that those priorities reflect the issues they consider most important is likely to become a key political battleground in the months ahead.