Annette Belcher

Jordan Wood was sentenced to 18 months in prison and permanently banned from keeping animals after pleading guilty to abusing a Labrador-type dog named Chance and a cat named Casper. Veterinary examinations found repeated blunt-force trauma, strangulation-related injuries and other severe wounds; Chance was euthanized after complications, while Casper died from chest trauma, lung collapse and respiratory failure. Ellen Gibson also pleaded guilty to related animal-welfare offences and is due to be sentenced. The case was investigated and prosecuted by the RSPCA.

Denise Welch has announced that she is leaving ITV’s Loose Women after nearly 25 years on and off, saying she wants to focus on acting, her first love. Fans, her husband Lincoln Townley and former and current co-stars including Carol Vorderman, Katie Piper and GK Barry praised her and said she would be missed. Welch first joined the panel in 2005, left in 2013 and returned in 2018, following a long television and acting career that included Coronation Street, Waterloo Road, Hollyoaks, Emmerdale and EastEnders.

A Southern Rail train carrying about 150 passengers derailed near Lewes in East Sussex while travelling from London Victoria to Eastbourne. Three carriages overturned, but all passengers were evacuated. Eleven people were injured, including two with serious injuries who were taken to major trauma centres, while nine others sustained less serious injuries. A major incident was declared, with ambulance, police and fire services treating casualties and supporting passengers. The Rail Accident Investigation Branch is expected to establish the cause.

A passenger train derailed near Lewes in East Sussex at around 3:55 p.m. on 13 August, with three carriages overturning and more than 40 people reportedly trapped. British Transport Police, ambulance crews, firefighters and specialist emergency teams responded, while the cause and extent of injuries remained unknown. Southern Rail suspended services between Brighton, Lewes, Haywards Heath, Seaford and Eastbourne, warning of major delays and cancellations until 10 p.m. Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander said she was deeply concerned and that the government was working with the rail industry and local partners to assist passengers.

Emergency crews are battling large wildfires near Bordeaux as France prepares for a heatwave forecast to reach 41C. More than 260,000 people have been evacuated across south-western France, where fires have burned over 42,000 hectares, killed two firefighters and injured 88 others. President Emmanuel Macron called the situation France’s most difficult since the Second World War, while local officials prepare for further evacuations. Fires have also prompted evacuation orders for 63,000 people near Madrid in Spain, with Spanish officials warning that the coming days will be crucial as temperatures rise.

A major global outage affected Facebook, Instagram and Messenger, with users suddenly logged out and unable to access services across the UK, US and Europe. Down Detector recorded a surge in reports beginning shortly after 12:35pm. The disruption marks Meta’s second recent outage, following similar login errors reported on Sunday.

Forecasters warn that a large band of rain will move into Scotland on Monday, bringing heavy downpours, surface flooding and potential travel disruption. Twelve UK areas are highlighted for possible impacts as northerly winds draw cloud and rain into northern regions, with additional showers expected along England’s east coast. Brighter and warmer conditions are expected in southern Wales and southern England, where temperatures may reach 25C to 26C.

A teenage boy admitted during an appeal hearing that he pushed his 13‑year‑old former girlfriend, Aurora Tila, from a seventh‑floor balcony in Piacenza after previously claiming she died by suicide. The confession, made via video link from a youth detention centre, delayed the appeal until September. Investigators had found evidence contradicting his earlier account, including witness testimony and messages showing Aurora feared him. He was previously convicted of aggravated murder, with factors including stalking and the victim’s age. Aurora’s family maintains she was frightened of him, and their lawyer supports upholding the original 17‑year sentence.

Two men, Wayne Taylor and passerby Ian Pascoe, drowned while attempting to rescue Taylor’s children at Seaton Carew beach, though the children survived. Their families praised their bravery and supported a national water safety campaign calling for improved education and safety measures. Local officials and residents expressed condolences, while eyewitnesses described the rescue efforts. The tragedy renewed calls for urgent action to prevent drowning deaths across the UK.

Andy Burnham secured 349 nominations from Labour MPs, surpassing the threshold that would allow any rival to enter the leadership race. With no challengers, he is set to be confirmed as party leader at a special conference on Friday and to become prime minister on July 20. Nearly 80% of Labour MPs endorsed him, and he will still participate in an online hustings despite being the sole candidate.

A Leicester Uber driver, Adam Daley, raped a woman at knifepoint after picking her up in the early morning and abandoning her after the attack. Police quickly tracked and arrested him using CCTV and ANPR systems, later discovering indecent images and bestiality content on his phone. Daley was convicted of rape, sexual assault, threats to kill and weapons possession, receiving a 16‑year prison sentence along with an indefinite sexual harm prevention order. Authorities believe additional victims may exist and urge them to come forward, commending the victim's rapid report that enabled swift arrest and preservation of evidence.

Three related individuals were found dead inside a home on Old Cullybackey Road in Ballymena, prompting a Police Service of Northern Ireland investigation. Authorities reported no ongoing risk to the public and plan to release further updates as the inquiry progresses.

A Ryanair flight from Thessaloniki to Memmingen returned to Greece shortly after take‑off when a passenger window became dislodged, leaving a male passenger partially outside the aircraft. The plane landed safely, one passenger received medical assistance, and a replacement aircraft completed the journey later in the morning.

Former Conservative MP and public figure Ann Widdecombe has died at 78, prompting tributes from her management and political colleagues. Known for her long parliamentary career, socially conservative positions, and prominent role in Brexit-related parties including the Brexit Party and Reform UK, she remained active in public debate after leaving Parliament. Her television appearances, especially on Strictly Come Dancing, contributed to her wider popularity. Tributes highlighted her Christian values, commitment to public service, and impact across politics and media.

An F-16 fighter jet of the Hellenic Air Force taking part in a NATO exercise made an emergency landing at Zakynthos Airport after catching fire due to a technical malfunction. The pilot escaped safely as emergency crews responded and flights to the airport were cancelled or diverted, affecting several international carriers. Authorities are investigating the cause, including a possible landing gear issue, while assessing damage to the aircraft.

A three‑year‑old boy injured in a crocodile enclosure in Cambridgeshire has undergone six surgeries and faces months of recovery due to severe nerve and tendon damage. His parents reported gradual healing of external wounds and successful skin grafts but said he retains limited movement in his fingers. Staff at Addenbrooke's Hospital were praised for their care, and a GoFundMe campaign to support his rehabilitation has surpassed £62,000. The zoo owners who rescued him were credited with saving his life, while a man arrested on suspicion of attempted murder remains on bail pending further assessment.

A mother and her two daughters were found dead in a Great Denham property, prompting a murder investigation by Bedfordshire Police. Relatives issued a statement expressing grief and requesting privacy while authorities continue inquiries. Police are searching for Ndodana Mkhanyisi Tshuma, believed to have left the UK shortly before the bodies were discovered. Local schools attended by the children paid heartfelt tributes, highlighting the profound impact of the deaths on the community.

Police are seeking Ndodana Mkhanyisi Tshuma, who left the UK for Zimbabwe shortly before the bodies of his wife and two daughters were found in Great Denham, prompting a murder investigation led by regional major crime units. Authorities released CCTV images and appealed for information while urging Tshuma to surrender as international agencies assist in the search.

Michael Thompson was convicted at Nottingham Crown Court of raping and murdering his estranged wife, Kimberley Thompson, after staging her death to appear as suicide. Evidence showed she had endured years of domestic abuse and was preparing for life after divorce. Police determined he suffocated her, manipulated the scene, and posted messages from her social media accounts before calling emergency services. He was also found guilty of perverting the course of justice. Investigators highlighted the long-term abuse she faced and urged others in similar situations to seek help.

Donald Trump declared the ceasefire with Iran over, calling Iranians “sick” and stating the US has launched significantly tougher strikes following alleged Iranian attacks on ships in the Strait of Hormuz. The US retaliated with coordinated strikes on Iranian air defenses, radar systems and Revolutionary Guard boats, while Iran responded with attacks on Bahrain and Kuwait. The escalation disrupted planned negotiations intended to follow the funeral of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. US Central Command said its actions aimed to impose heavy costs for attacks on commercial shipping and signaled readiness to act again if agreements are violated.

Katie Price’s children, Junior and Princess Andre, recount how their mother’s drug use affected their upbringing, describing emotional distress, instability and having to care for themselves. The Sky documentary addresses Katie Price’s cocaine use following personal turmoil, her near-fatal 2021 car crash and her recovery after time in The Priory. Family members express concern over her pattern of turbulent relationships, including a recent brief marriage. The film traces her career highs, financial decline and ongoing struggles, while her mother hopes she eventually finds stability and happiness.

Frankie Dettori was hospitalized after his car flipped when struck by another vehicle in Newmarket, leaving him with broken ribs and a broken thumb. Emergency services responded quickly, and he remains under observation while his injuries are assessed. His management expressed gratitude to responders and requested privacy. The article also recounts Dettori’s racing achievements and a previous plane crash in 2000 in which he survived with injuries.

Donald Trump issued a tribute to Village People frontman Victor Willis following the singer’s death from a sudden illness, praising his support and the renewed popularity of YMCA at campaign rallies. Willis, who performed with a version of the group during Trump’s 2025 inauguration events, had previously stated that neither he nor the band endorsed Trump and had sought to stop their music from being used at rallies. The group’s history of hits and internal disagreements over political performances is noted amid confirmation of Willis’s death and a request for privacy from his family.

A three-year-old boy remains in stable condition after multiple surgeries following an incident in which he was reportedly thrown into a crocodile enclosure at Johnson’s of Old Hurst near Huntingdon. Family members expressed gratitude to zoo staff who rescued him and to supporters who have contributed to a fundraising campaign for his recovery. Police arrested a 30-year-old Norfolk man on suspicion of attempted murder, later releasing him on bail due to unfitness for questioning. Donations are intended to support the child’s rehabilitation, with excess funds to go to charities within the Addenbrooke’s Trust.

Victor Willis, lead singer of the Village People and co-writer of their hit YMCA, died at age 75 following a short, aggressive illness, according to a statement from his wife, Karen Huff-Willis. The Dallas-born performer achieved major success during the disco era and remained financially secure through music copyrights. Living in San Diego with his wife, he continued to be associated with the band's legacy as they toured Europe earlier this year. Fans worldwide have shared tributes and messages of condolence.

A 31-year-old hiker, Brittany Clark, was killed after a large alligator attacked her while she was swimming in shallow water near the Econlockhatchee River in Florida. The alligator tore off one arm and severely injured the other as her boyfriend, Chance Allison, tried to free her during a violent death roll. Emergency calls captured the chaotic scene as eyewitnesses described the extent of her injuries. Clark died before reaching the hospital. Wildlife officials later captured two large alligators from the area and are conducting DNA testing to determine which was responsible. The attack occurred amid a rise in aggressive alligator behavior in central Florida following mating season.

A beauty salon in Mullingar paid tribute to Michaela Newcombe after she died in a car crash in Malaga alongside Mark and Amy McCullagh, while Ian McCullagh remains critically injured. The salon described Michaela as central to their community, expressing shock and grief at the confirmation of her death. The crash has deeply affected their hometown, with local priest Fr Norman Allread noting widespread mourning and prayers for the victims and Ian’s recovery.

A 31‑year‑old woman died after a large alligator attacked her while she and two companions were cooling off in shallow water near Orlando. The alligator tore off one arm and severely injured the other as her boyfriend called emergency services. She died before reaching a hospital. Wildlife officials captured two large alligators near the scene and sent DNA for testing to determine the attacker. The incident is one of several recent alligator attacks in central Florida, where aggression increases after mating season.

Authorities found Jessica Folds strangled in woodland and Daniel Robbins dead beside her after suffering a heart attack while attempting to dispose of her body. Evidence, including drag marks from an abandoned truck, supports police suspicions of a domestic‑violence killing the night before. Investigators continue to examine the case while family details and local officials’ statements provide context to the deaths.

Lionel Richie halted the opening night of his Sing A Song All Night Long tour in St. Paul, Minnesota after becoming unwell on stage, prompting the event’s early cancellation. Fans reported he appeared dizzy and needed to sit repeatedly while performing. A band member later announced he could not continue. The tour, co-headlined with Earth, Wind & Fire, is scheduled to continue across 26 cities, with the next show planned in Chicago.

Emergency services launched a multi‑agency search after a 15‑year‑old boy was reported missing while swimming at Testwood Lakes near Totton, Hampshire. Marine units, NPAS, ambulance crews, and the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire Service are assisting police, who have closed the area while the operation continues.

Heavy rain is forecast across much of Scotland within hours, with Glasgow expected to see the heaviest downpours. The Met Office indicates that 21 areas across the UK, including parts of Northern Ireland and regions in southwest England, will experience rainfall ranging from 1mm to 8mm per hour. Temperatures will remain cooler in Scotland compared to the warmer conditions in southern England and Wales. The Met Office outlook notes sunshine and heat in the southeast, while Scotland and northern England face cloudy conditions and intermittent showers.

Janice Nix received a 12-year prison sentence for the 1978 manslaughter of her five-year-old stepdaughter, Andrea Bernard, after new testimony from Andrea’s brother reopened the case. The court found that Nix forced the child into a scalding bath, causing fatal burns. Evidence described years of abuse toward both siblings, including beatings and neglect. Nix’s accounts of the incident changed over time, and prosecutors argued she had forcibly held the child in the hot water. Emotional statements from family members detailed lasting trauma. Nix, who later became a probation officer and authored a memoir, will serve two-thirds of her term before being eligible for release.

A former teacher, Jamie Varley, received a whole-life prison sentence for murdering his 13‑month‑old adopted son, Preston Davey, following months of escalating physical and sexual abuse. His partner, John McGowan‑Fazakerley, was sentenced to 25 years for allowing the child’s death and participating in a prior sexual assault. Preston’s birth mother delivered an emotional victim impact statement describing her grief and the betrayal of trust by the adoptive parents. The judge emphasised the devastating impact on the birth family and foster carers while outlining the pair’s convictions on multiple counts of abuse.

An eight-year-old boy, Taylor Thach, died after an apparent accidental drowning during a World Cup gathering in El Segundo, California. Emergency responders attempted lifesaving measures before he was pronounced dead at Harbor-UCLA Medical Centre. Police state that evidence indicates an accidental drowning, though the investigation continues and an autopsy has not yet been completed. The local community has raised more than $83,000 through a GoFundMe campaign to support his family, with neighbours and school members sharing tributes highlighting Taylor’s kindness and positive presence.

A five-year-old girl and her infant brother were killed after being struck by a vehicle while crossing a road with their mother in Cabramatta, Sydney. Bystanders overturned the car and performed CPR in attempts to save the children, who later died in hospital. Their mother sustained minor injuries, while the uninjured driver was arrested and underwent mandatory testing. Police seek additional witnesses as concerns emerge from residents about poor visibility and speeding at the junction. A community fundraiser has collected more than AUD$167,800 to support the family.

Colin Campbell was jailed for seven and a half years for a series of violent, unprovoked assaults in Rhyl and Chester that left multiple victims seriously injured, including one man who now requires permanent care after suffering extensive brain damage. The 24-year-old carried out the attacks over four months in 2025, some while on police bail. Mold Crown Court heard details of the assaults, which involved sudden punches and headbutts. The judge condemned Campbell’s actions as devastating and fuelled by alcohol, noting his late insight into the consequences. Campbell admitted several serious charges, including grievous bodily harm, and had a history of previous violent offences.

Police in Newtownards are investigating after a masked attacker fired a gunshot through a house window late Tuesday night. One person was inside at the time but was uninjured. The suspect, dressed in black and carrying a small handgun, fled toward Church Street. Authorities are appealing for information and any available footage.