Alice Padgett

Border controls between Spain and Gibraltar will be removed on 15 July under a post‑Brexit agreement aligning Gibraltar with the EU customs union and Schengen area. The change is expected to ease daily crossings for thousands of workers, boost economic activity, and end decades of restrictions, though businesses will face new compliance requirements including EU product rules and a new transaction tax. Officials and residents on both sides broadly welcome the deal as historic and beneficial after years of Brexit‑related uncertainty.

A major fire in Walthamstow forced the evacuation of hundreds as it spread across homes, gardens and a railway embankment, prompting deployment of 125 firefighters and 20 engines. No injuries were reported, and rest centres were established to support displaced residents. The blaze caused suspension of the Weaver line between Chingford and Hackney Downs while repairs are carried out. Authorities warned of escalating wildfire risks across southern and eastern England as a heatwave persists.