Alex Carter

The Sunday evening fireworks at Eastbourne’s Airbourne event have been cancelled after a severe UK Government alert, following discussions between Eastbourne Borough Council and partner organizations. The council said public safety and avoiding additional pressure on emergency services were the main reasons. The rest of the programme, including flying displays, military attractions and the first Red Devils parachute display, will continue.

Two pedestrians were injured when a white Mercedes Vito mounted the pavement and struck them outside a shop on East Street in Rye. The woman sustained potentially life-changing injuries, while both victims were taken to hospital. A 37-year-old man from Willesborough was arrested on suspicion of drug driving and causing serious injury by dangerous driving, then released on bail. Police are appealing for witnesses and CCTV, dashcam or mobile-phone footage of the collision.

Gary Parker, a 43-year-old motorcyclist from Faygate near Horsham, died at the scene after his motorcycle collided with a car on the A283 London Road in Petworth on 9 August. His family remembered him as an exceptionally loving, protective and humorous father. A woman in the car was seriously injured and taken to hospital by air ambulance. Sussex Police are investigating the collision and have appealed for witnesses and information.

David Niblett was sentenced to 15 years in prison, followed by one year on licence, after pleading guilty to two counts of raping a girl under 13 in West Sussex between 2014 and 2015, when she was aged six to eight. He fled to Spain after learning of the allegations but was arrested there on 30 December 2025 following an Interpol Red Notice and extradited to the UK through cooperation involving Interpol, the National Crime Agency and Spanish authorities. He was also given an indefinite Sexual Harm Prevention Order. Sussex Police praised the victim’s courage and reiterated that reports of rape and sexual assault are taken seriously.

Visitors to the Eastbourne Airshow are advised to plan ahead as official parking can cost up to £45, while parking at Beachy Head costs £27. The article notes that a discounted £35 penalty for parking on double yellow lines could be cheaper than the most expensive official option, while warning motorists not to park illegally because of safety and enforcement risks. Disabled parking is available at Devonshire Place on a first-come, first-served basis, and visitors are encouraged to check restrictions and arrange parking in advance.

A Southern passenger train derailed shortly before 4pm near Lewes railway station in East Sussex, leaving at least two carriages overturned. British Transport Police, Sussex Police, East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service and South East Coast Ambulance Service launched a major response, but no casualty figures had been confirmed. Rail services through Lewes were suspended, with disruption expected until at least 10pm and passengers advised to delay travel or use alternative routes. Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander and Hastings and Rye MP Helena Dollimore expressed concern. The cause of the derailment is pending investigation.

The Red Arrows have withdrawn from the Eastbourne International Airshow, the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo and Lyme Regis Lifeboat Week after severe weather in north-eastern Canada delayed their Atlantic return. The nine Hawk jets remain at Canadian Forces Base Goose Bay while awaiting safe flying conditions, with RAF support aircraft and refuelling stops required for the journey. The team has used the delay to complete scheduled engineering work and hopes to resume its 2026 display programme after returning to Britain. The affected events will continue with other planned aviation displays, including RAF Typhoons and Battle of Britain Memorial Flight flypasts.

Firefighters brought a field fire near Boreham Street and Boreham Hill in East Sussex under control shortly after 2pm on Saturday, August 8. The response involved four fire engines, two 4×4 vehicles and two fire officers, while police assisted with traffic management. Residents were advised to avoid the area and keep windows and doors closed because of smoke. The cause of the fire had not been established.

West Yorkshire Police and the Wakefield District Community Safety Partnership have launched the “Jog On” campaign to tackle harassment and abuse experienced by female runners. A local survey found that 80% of female runners had experienced harassment, while only 4% reported it to police, prompting plain-clothed patrols in identified hotspots. Officers have witnessed and challenged anti-social behaviour, with enforcement possible under Public Space Protection Orders, including fines of up to £1,000. The campaign also offers Active Bystander training and encourages runners and witnesses to report incidents so police can identify hotspots and take action.

Jimmy Ward, a man believed to be in his 30s, was fatally shot at the Calcutt Traveller Site near Cricklade on 2 August. Wiltshire Police arrested a man in his 70s and a woman in her 40s on suspicion of firearm possession and assisting an offender, while forensic examinations and enquiries continued at the site and a nearby caravan park. Detective Chief Inspector Phil Walker appealed for witnesses, CCTV and dashcam footage to help establish what happened and identify everyone involved.

The Bluebell Railway has suspended all steam locomotive services from Thursday, 30 July, until further notice because hot, dry conditions have sharply increased the risk of lineside fires. Heritage diesel services, including dining and evening supper trains, will continue during the summer holidays. The railway is reviewing conditions daily with relevant authorities and hopes to resume steam operations when it is safe.

Sussex Police confirmed that two people were arrested in recent days in connection with investigations linked to Crowborough Training Camp, stressing that neither arrest involved terrorism offences. The investigations are being led by the National Crime Agency and Immigration Enforcement, so Sussex Police declined to provide further details. The Daily Express reported that one man in his twenties was arrested on 10 July on suspicion of possessing indecent images of children; no charges or bail conditions have been announced.

Eleven members of an organised crime group were convicted over an attempt to import approximately 500 kilograms of cocaine, valued at around £40 million, through the Sussex coast. The drugs were dropped into the English Channel and later recovered by boat before the National Crime Agency and partner agencies intercepted the shipment near Medmerry Beach. Daniel Jamieson and Sam Brown were identified as the group’s leaders, while Lewis Watts coordinated logistics. The convictions conclude a major maritime drug-smuggling investigation, with sentencing scheduled at Portsmouth Crown Court.

A 55-year-old man died after two adults got into difficulty in the sea at West Wittering Beach on July 26. Lifeguards and emergency services brought both men ashore and provided CPR and advanced medical treatment; the second man was taken to hospital as a precaution. Sussex Police said the men were not known to each other, and the death has been referred to the coroner’s officer while enquiries continue.

Water supplies are gradually returning to Gatwick Airport and thousands of homes across Surrey, Kent and Sussex after a power outage caused complications at the Bough Beech Water Treatment Works. SES Water said the network may take time to fully recover, with some customers still facing low pressure or intermittent supplies. Gatwick Airport distributed bottled water and activated contingency plans after both terminals were affected.

A power failure and related complications at SES Water’s Bough Beech treatment works caused low water pressure and temporary loss of supply across the area, affecting both terminals at Gatwick Airport. Some restaurants, water fountains and toilet facilities were disrupted. The airport distributed bottled water and introduced contingency measures while SES Water engineers worked to restore normal service.

Brighton & Hove launches its first government‑approved e‑scooter hire scheme using a fleet of Beryl e‑scooters, beginning with 100 scooters at 20 hubs and expanding to 300 across 34 hubs. The trial provides a legal alternative to private e‑scooters, which remain prohibited on public roads and pavements. Strict safety rules apply, including licensing requirements, GPS‑controlled no‑go zones, a reduced maximum speed, and an overnight hiring curfew. City officials and Beryl’s leadership emphasise sustainability, accessibility and reduced congestion as key goals, with the rollout shaped by public consultation and lessons from other UK trials.

Firefighters in East Sussex brought a field blaze near Battle under control after flames spread across four hectares during hot, dry weather. Multiple fire crews used hose reels and beaters to stop the fire’s spread, with residents advised to close windows due to smoke. Crews remained on scene for hours to extinguish hotspots, while the fire service urged the public to take extra precautions amid rising grass and field fires.

Emergency services conducted an overnight multi‑agency search after reports of a person entering the sea near Hastings Pier. Volunteer rescuers located the individual unresponsive about 400 meters offshore and brought them to shore, where paramedics provided treatment before transporting them to hospital. Authorities praised the cooperation among Coastguard teams, rescue volunteers, ambulance crews and police, while the casualty’s condition and circumstances remain undisclosed.

Emergency services launched an extensive air, sea and land search off Brighton seafront after reports of a man possibly entering the water near Palace Pier. Coastguard teams, RNLI lifeboats and a helicopter searched the coastline before police confirmed the man was safe on land, leading to the search being stood down.

Sussex Police appeal for information to help trace 22-year-old Mohammed Rasauli as part of an investigation into a fatal A27 crash that killed a 20-year-old woman. Detectives believe he may hold information crucial to understanding the circumstances of the collision and urge both Rasauli and anyone who knows his whereabouts to contact the force. The victim’s family is being supported as enquiries continue.

A 38‑year‑old man from Hastings was jailed for two years and eight months after admitting seven burglaries and two thefts targeting businesses in Bexhill over a three‑month period. Police identified and arrested him following joint investigations by neighbourhood and specialist burglary teams. Officers emphasised the impact of business burglaries on local traders and reaffirmed their commitment to proactive patrols and supporting affected businesses.

A lorry overturned on the A23 at the Patcham Interchange, causing major delays and congestion across surrounding routes. Emergency crews from fire and ambulance services responded, with one person treated at the scene. Traffic became heavily backed up in both directions, prompting warnings for motorists to avoid the area and allow extra travel time while recovery and incident management continued.

A 20-year-old man, Romeo Mihai, has been charged with two counts of rape, sexual assault by penetration and sexual assault after a reported attack on a young woman near Eastbourne Bandstand. He was remanded in custody following an appearance at Brighton Magistrates’ Court and is due before the Crown Court in August. Sussex Police continue to investigate and appeal for witnesses or anyone with CCTV, mobile phone or dashcam footage to come forward quoting Operation Gilford.

Fire crews from four counties responded to a major house fire in Eridge, East Sussex, prompting authorities to urge nearby residents to keep windows and doors closed due to heavy smoke. The property was safely evacuated with no injuries reported. Eleven fire engines were initially deployed before being reduced as crews made steady progress using hose jets, a portable pump and support vehicles. Emergency services remain on site and the cause of the fire is not yet known.

A crash involving a car and a lamppost on the A23 Airport Way caused severe congestion on routes leading to Gatwick Airport, including the M23 Gatwick Spur and the airport ring road. The disruption left some passengers abandoning vehicles and walking to the terminals to avoid missing flights, while others were stuck in gridlock. Motorists were advised to allow extra travel time and consider alternative routes as recovery efforts and heavy traffic continued.

Two men were convicted of wounding with intent after a 2019 assault in Brighton that left Cameron Devlin with injuries that later led to fatal sepsis, though a jury determined they were not legally responsible for his death. Murder charges were dismissed, but the defendants received suspended prison sentences following a four‑week trial. Sussex Police highlighted the complexity of the years‑long investigation and expressed condolences to Devlin’s family, who have requested privacy.

Sussex Police confirmed that a body found during a search in Eastbourne has been formally identified as Karen, a 51-year-old woman reported missing on 2 July. Her family has been notified and supported by officers. Police stated there are no suspicious circumstances in her death, and a file is being prepared for the coroner. Support resources such as the Samaritans were highlighted for anyone affected.

Detectives in Bradford are searching for 24-year-old Luqman Khan in connection with a shooting that left a 28-year-old man with life-threatening head injuries. Khan is believed to have travelled to Suffolk, with possible links to Ipswich or Felixstowe. Two men in their 20s have been arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender, one in Bradford and one in Ipswich. Police urge anyone with information on Khan’s whereabouts or details of the shooting to contact West Yorkshire Police or Crimestoppers.

Police are investigating two linked vandalism incidents at The Swan Hotel in Arundel after graffiti was sprayed on the building and eggs were thrown at it on separate dates. Officers are seeking witnesses and any relevant CCTV, doorbell or dashcam footage from the High Street area to help identify those responsible.

A man in his 70s remains in hospital with life‑threatening injuries after being struck by a black Ford Tourneo taxi late at night at the junction of King Street and York Place in Leeds. The taxi driver was arrested on suspicion of causing serious injury by dangerous driving and is under investigation. Police are appealing for witnesses and information to aid the ongoing inquiry.

Fire crews from West Sussex and East Sussex are tackling a large wildfire at Devil’s Dyke amid prolonged dry conditions in the South Downs. Residents have been advised to keep windows closed and avoid the area due to smoke while the cause of the fire remains unknown. Authorities warn that dry weather is contributing to rapid fire spread, and updates are expected as the situation develops.

Police cordoned off an alleyway in central Swindon after a man in his 50s was found unresponsive and pronounced dead at the scene. Detectives carried out enquiries, including door-to-door checks and CCTV review, before confirming the death was not suspicious. No cause of death has been released, and the case will proceed through the coroner’s process. Authorities extended condolences to the man’s family, and support resources were provided for those affected.

A major fire engulfed the former Holy Child Jesus School in St Leonards, prompting an extensive response from East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service. Two local boys, aged 13 and 14, were arrested on suspicion of arson. Crews worked overnight to control the blaze and continue damping hotspots, while surrounding roads remain closed. Authorities issued health advice after ash settled on nearby properties, noting asbestos risk is unlikely to pose significant danger from short-term exposure. Police are appealing for witnesses as investigations continue.

Police pursued a dangerously driven Ford Mustang across Wiltshire after the disqualified driver, Martin Stokes, fled officers by travelling the wrong way on the M4 and continuing onto major roads before being stopped with tactical contact. Stokes was arrested and admitted multiple offences, including dangerous driving, assaulting an emergency worker and threats to kill. He was remanded in custody following a guilty plea at Swindon Magistrates’ Court and awaits sentencing at Swindon Crown Court. A police spokesperson highlighted the severe risk his driving posed to the public.

A Littlehampton waste firm and its director were fined a combined £16,966 after abandoning a trailer loaded with ketchup bottles in a local car park. Arun District Council prosecuted Rubbish Cleared Promptly Ltd and director Simon Cole at Worthing Magistrates’ Court, citing the environmental harm caused by fly-tipping. Councillor Amanda Worne urged residents to use licensed waste carriers and report suspected dumping to prevent further offences.

Fire crews in St Leonards-on-Sea scaled back their response to a major blaze at the former Holy Child Jesus School after initially deploying six engines and specialist teams. Four engines remained on site as firefighters continued tackling smoke and fire risks, with support from Sussex Police and UK Power Networks. Residents were advised to keep windows shut due to heavy smoke, and nearby roads were closed. No injuries have been reported, and the cause of the fire is under investigation.

Four teenagers were arrested shortly after an alleged robbery involving two 17‑year‑old boys at Saltdean Beach, with police locating the suspects within 20 minutes near Chailey Avenue in Rottingdean. One suspect faces charges including robbery, possession of an offensive weapon, and drug offences, while the others were arrested on suspicion of robbery and drug possession. All remain in custody as police request witnesses and footage to assist the investigation.

A 37-year-old Calne man, Jason Payne, pled guilty at Swindon Crown Court to sexually explicit communication with a 15-year-old girl and to intimidating the victim and her mother after his arrest. The investigation by Wiltshire Police traced explicit messages sent via Snapchat, supported by CCTV evidence obtained by the victim’s mother. Payne, already serving a sentence for a prior image-based offence, was remanded to the sex offender register and awaits sentencing in September.

Sussex Police are seeking a potential witness captured on CCTV who may have information related to the murders of Adrian Horton and Uschi Schild in St Leonards. Sean Gray has been charged with both killings, and detectives emphasise that the man in the images is sought only as a witness. Police urge anyone with information to come forward, quoting Operation Newington.

South Farm’s giant maize maze reopens in Rodmell on 23 July 2026 with a new seven‑acre design, open Thursday to Sunday through 6 September. Tickets are priced at £9 per person with a discounted family option, and visitors are encouraged to book in advance and wear suitable footwear. A share of proceeds will support the East Sussex Farmers’ Benevolent Fund. Set on a working farm with views over the South Downs, the attraction offers a family‑friendly outdoor experience.

Neighbourhood officers from Wakefield Central East were recognised at the 2026 Resolve ASB Awards for their work reducing anti-social behaviour through targeted enforcement and safeguarding initiatives. Led by Sergeant Cat Hardwick, the team employed civil orders and offender management strategies that resulted in arrests and improved community safety. During a visit to Parliament hosted by MP Simon Lightwood, the officers received national commendation, including congratulations from the Home Secretary. Local leadership praised their continued impact in addressing challenges in the Wakefield East ward.

Two men, Oliver Priddle and Niraj Amaidas, were convicted at Brighton Crown Court of wounding with intent after a 2019 assault in central Brighton that caused injuries leading to the death of 34‑year‑old Cameron Devlin from sepsis. Emergency services treated Devlin at the scene, but he died five days later, and specialists confirmed the medical link between the attack and his death. Following a lengthy Sussex Police investigation and arrests shortly after the incident, both defendants were acquitted of murder but found guilty of causing grievous bodily harm with intent. Sentencing is scheduled for July 2025, and Devlin’s family have requested privacy.

A 16-year-old boy has been charged with rape, sexual touching, and inciting a child to engage in sexual activity involving an eight-year-old girl in Chippenham. Both the accused and the victim are protected by anonymity orders. The case is scheduled to be heard at Swindon Magistrates’ Court on 8 July.

Sussex Police released CCTV images of six men sought in connection with a violent 6 June robbery in Eastbourne during which a victim was threatened and had his watch and car stolen. Detectives believe the individuals captured outside the Joy Bar may be linked to the incident and are requesting information or footage from the surrounding area to assist the ongoing investigation.

Central Park on Brighton Beach enters its final and busiest week of its inaugural summer season, hosting World Cup quarter-final and final screenings alongside major music events from 11 to 19 July. England’s match against Norway, an indie music festival, an R&B event, and the World Cup Final are set to attract thousands, with Sussex Police managing the large crowds. Organisers highlight the venue’s transformation into a major South Coast entertainment destination and urge early ticket purchases for the concluding events.

Sussex Police are seeking witnesses after four men exited a white Vauxhall Corsa and assaulted a man in his 30s on Terminus Road in Eastbourne on 19 June. Officers believe many people were nearby and are asking anyone with information or relevant footage to contact them using reference 47260147622 as they work to establish the circumstances of the attack.

The Brighton World Naked Bike Ride has been rescheduled to 12 September 2026 after a June postponement caused by a protest clash. Marking its 20th anniversary, the event aims for its largest turnout, with organisers encouraging broad participation. Sussex Police are cooperating with the event, allowing full nudity while ensuring safety. Details of the meeting point and route will be announced closer to the date, with the ride ending at the seafront for an optional swim.