Bob Hockenhull

Noora Lewis, a former Dragon’s Den contestant from Birmingham, lost 50% of the vision in her left eye after Birmingham Midland Eye Centre failed to diagnose giant cell arteritis and provide urgent biopsy and steroid treatment in 2021. Sandwell and West Birmingham NHS Trust has admitted liability, apologised, and said an investigation led to improvements in clinical processes. Lewis is suing the trust for compensation and describes the lasting practical, financial and emotional effects of her sight loss, including difficulty with daily tasks, reduced confidence and fear of losing vision in her other eye.

Worcester-born cyclist Alice Towers won the combativity award after making an early breakaway on the final stage of the 2026 Tour of Britain Women in Leamington Spa. She was caught inside the final kilometre, allowing Dutch sprinter Lorena Wiebes to win the stage, while Mauritian rider Kim Le Court-Pienaar secured the overall title. Lichfield’s Josie Nelson was named Best British Racer.