Benjamin Blosse

Andy Burnham reaffirmed the UK’s commitment to supporting Ukraine after Russia’s embassy warned that Britain would face consequences for assisting Kyiv. The threats followed reports that Ukraine used UK-made drones in deep strikes against Russian targets. Russian propagandists separately called for attacks on British arms factories, including with the Poseidon underwater nuclear drone. The UK Ministry of Defence said Britain would remain resolute against Russian aggression, while Ukrainian long-range strikes have expanded significantly and Russia reported hundreds of drones intercepted across multiple regions.

US actress Hayden Panettiere, known for Heroes and Nashville, has died aged 36, according to a statement from her family confirmed by ABC News. Her father, Skip, described her as a source of extraordinary love and joy and asked for privacy; no cause of death has been announced. The report reviews Panettiere's acting career and notes her previously disclosed struggles with addiction and mental health, the death of her younger brother Jansen, and her decision to give full custody of her daughter to former partner Wladimir Klitschko.

A 24-year-old man died at the scene after suffering serious stab wounds on Chapel Street in Levenshulme. Greater Manchester Police arrested a 27-year-old man on suspicion of murder and said the incident appeared isolated, with no wider threat to the public. Officers established multiple crime scenes, carried out forensic and fingertip searches, and appealed for witnesses and mobile-phone, CCTV, Ring doorbell or dashcam footage. Local Labour councillors expressed shock and urged residents with information to contact police or Crimestoppers.

Jake Evans, a 30-year-old father of two from Cwmbran, died from multi-organ failure and pneumonia the day after his birthday after relapsing into heavy drinking. His alcohol dependency began after both parents died within six months and intensified following a serious assault in December 2025. He had previously achieved 10 months of sobriety with support from drug and alcohol services, but his liver was already severely damaged. His sister Becky Hunt is raising money for his funeral and children while sharing his story to highlight the destructive effects of grief, trauma, alcohol addiction and relapse.

Firefighters are tackling a major blaze on Saddleworth Moor near Holmfirth Road in Oldham after it broke out late on 12 August 2026. The fire covered approximately 500 by 150 metres at its peak, prompting eight fire engines to respond. Crews remained at the scene the following day damping down hotspots and containing the spread, while Holmfirth Road was closed between Dovestone and Greenfield reservoirs. Residents were advised to avoid the area amid a summer of serious moorland fires across Greater Manchester.

The Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps has declared any base used to attack Iranian territory a legitimate target and specifically warned the British monarchy, following reports that a US B-1 bomber may have operated from RAF Fairford. The UK permits the United States to use British bases for defensive operations but says British forces are not directly participating in the conflict and that the country remains prepared to defend itself. The report says US military deployments in the Middle East are increasing as the Iran-US ceasefire breaks down, while Iran-aligned Houthis have targeted Saudi oil tankers and threatened the Bab al-Mandeb Strait, contributing to crude oil prices rising above $100 a barrel.

Colin and Paula Newton left Butlin's Skegness approximately 16 hours after arriving for a £249 three-night holiday, alleging that their accommodation smelled of vomit and contained dried vomit, stained and possibly contaminated bedding, dirty curtains, sand, crumbs and other debris. After initially offering partial refunds of £41.50 and £83, Butlin's apologised and ultimately agreed to provide a full refund, acknowledging that the conditions fell below its expected standards. The couple say they will not return and have complained to East Lindsey District Council, which is investigating.