Brendan Mcfadden

A Greater Anglia train carrying about 40 to 45 passengers derailed south of Wickford station in Essex, with emergency services attending and no injuries initially reported. The incident caused major delays and cancellations between Southend Victoria, Wickford and London Liverpool Street. It occurred less than 24 hours after a Southern train derailed between Haywards Heath and Lewes, where three carriages overturned and 20 people were injured, including two seriously. Eyewitnesses described the Lewes crash, while ambulance services confirmed that passengers were treated at the scene and some taken to hospital.

The EU Entry/Exit System has caused lengthy delays at airports and ferry ports, particularly for UK travellers entering the Schengen area. Problems include fingerprint-recognition failures affecting elderly passengers, lost biometric data and kiosks unable to upload information, with waits reportedly reaching four hours and potentially six during peak periods. France, Greece, Portugal and Spain have suspended or reduced checks when queues become excessive under an EU exceptional-circumstances provision. Travel organisations support extending this flexibility beyond 6 September, alongside more registration kiosks and additional border staff.

A power failure at Network Rail’s Manchester Rail Operating Centre disabled signalling and caused widespread cancellations, delays of up to an hour and rescheduled services across Greater Manchester, the Midlands, north-west England and connecting routes. Avanti West Coast, CrossCountry, East Midlands Railway, London Northwestern Railway, Northern, TransPennine Express and Transport for Wales were affected, with some operators advising passengers not to travel and warning that disruption could continue into the following day. A separate unexploded Second World War bomb near Tamworth further complicated services. Network Rail said engineers were working to restore the signalling system, while the Transport Secretary apologised and urged passengers to check timetables before travelling.

A 47-year-old woman, Stella Gollovena, was charged with four counts of wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm and possessing an offensive weapon after four men were stabbed on Endell Street in Covent Garden. The victims, aged 34 to 56, were treated at a major trauma centre and later discharged with non-life-threatening, non-life-changing injuries. Police said they believe the incident was isolated and mental-health-related; eyewitnesses reported seeing a woman attacking passers-by and later confronting officers with a weapon, identified as a pair of scissors.

Wes Streeting says he is absolutely confident that money provided to support staffing in his opposition office did not originate from convicted crypto fraudster Sam Bankman-Fried. The issue follows an alleged $610,000 gift from Bankman-Fried to David Lawrence, founder of Labour for the Long Term, which later funded a policy adviser in Streeting’s office. The live coverage also reports Reform UK’s receipt of at least £19m from cryptocurrency-linked donors, legal action by Nigel Farage and Richard Tice against the National Crime Agency over alleged banking-information leaks, divisions over Labour’s immigration reforms, unrest following anti-immigration protests, criticism of early-release rules for PC Andrew Harper’s killers, and disputes over water-company ownership and pollution.

Diane Abbott has been readmitted to the Labour Party and had the parliamentary whip restored following an independent review under party rules. She received a formal warning and apologised for referring to the Israeli Defence Forces as the “Jewish Defence Force,” acknowledging that the wording conflated Israel with the Jewish community. Abbott’s earlier suspension followed comments about racism involving Jewish, Traveller and Irish people, for which she had previously apologised. Scottish Labour MP Joani Reid was also reinstated after voluntarily suspending herself when her husband was arrested on suspicion of assisting a foreign intelligence service; she was not herself accused of wrongdoing. Labour said the decisions were independent of party leadership and unrelated to Andy Burnham becoming leader.

Labour candidate Bev Craig has won the Greater Manchester mayoral by-election with 309,525 votes, defeating Reform UK’s Sian Astley after the contest went to a second round under the supplementary voting system. Craig succeeds Andy Burnham, who stepped down as mayor after returning to Parliament and becoming Prime Minister. The result came amid low turnout of just over 25% and claims from the Greens that the run-off exposed weaknesses in Labour’s support. Other major developments included Chancellor John Healey’s announcement that the Budget will take place on 28 October, a five-point Labour lead over Reform in new polling, Burnham’s proposals for expanded English devolution and possible early termination of asylum-hotel contracts, criticism of FIFA president Gianni Infantino, continued concerns over UK wildfire resources, and the government’s positions on Gaza, defence spending and a proposed Chinese embassy in London.

Wildfires across southwestern France, Spain and Italy have forced more than 330,000 people to evacuate, with flames approaching Bordeaux and authorities considering a total evacuation of the city. France has mobilised the army and thousands of military personnel to support firefighters, while Spain is preparing emergency funding for severely affected areas. Evacuations have disrupted tourist destinations including Cap Ferret, and British travellers have been advised to follow local and FCDO guidance and consult their travel insurers. Officials and climate experts warn that extreme heat, drought and changing land use are increasing the frequency and intensity of Europe’s wildfires.

A large explosion at an industrial fertiliser facility near Rettendon, Essex, triggered a major incident and sent thick black smoke across the surrounding farmland. More than 100 firefighters tackled the blaze; at least 20 were injured, four suffering minor injuries, and three fire engines were destroyed. The fire was later brought under control, though crews remained to deal with hotspots. The East of England Ambulance Service declared a critical incident, deployed its hazardous area response team and urged people to avoid the area. Nearby residents reported powerful shockwaves, damage to their homes and loss of power.

A 29‑year‑old software engineer in Belfast is investing heavily in his pension and ISA due to fears that the UK state pension age will rise significantly or become means-tested. Forecasts from the Office for Budget Responsibility suggest the pension age may increase to 68 sooner than planned, with some experts warning it could reach 70. Concerns stem from demographic pressures, rising costs and the impact of the triple lock. He plans to retire in his early 50s using his ISA until he can access his private pension, arguing the Government has failed to plan adequately for future pension sustainability. Former pensions minister Steve Webb warns younger workers are most at risk from future pension age increases.

Andy Burnham plans to cancel Keir Starmer’s digital ID scheme and redirect its budget toward easing the cost of living. The £1.8 billion programme had sparked public backlash and was already scaled back after mandatory IDs were dropped. Conservatives accuse Burnham of claiming credit for an existing shift, while Liberal Democrats and civil liberties group Big Brother Watch welcome the move. The decision represents Burnham’s first major policy break from Starmer as he prepares to become prime minister.

Andy Burnham is expected to use his first speech as Labour leader to promise an “unashamedly Labour” economic programme centred on greater public control, reindustrialisation and devolving power to local communities. He will argue that Britain took the wrong path in the 1980s and pledge growth across all regions, stronger public services and practical cooperation with other parties. Burnham is also expected to call for party unity and pay tribute to Keir Starmer for returning Labour to government.

Andy Burnham is set to outline his first speech as Labour leader, calling for Britain to shift to a new economic path focused on public control, reindustrialisation and community empowerment. He argues the country has followed the wrong trajectory since the 1980s and plans to present policies that are distinctly Labour while aiming for national unity. Burnham will emphasise practical solutions, cross-party cooperation and a commitment to boosting growth across all regions, while praising Keir Starmer for returning Labour to government and highlighting recent legislative achievements such as the Hillsborough Law.

Andy Burnham, confirmed as Labour leader, said he would announce his Cabinet on Monday after succeeding Keir Starmer as prime minister, arguing that revealing appointments beforehand would create “complete chaos.” He pledged to end Labour infighting, expand devolution across the UK, pursue reindustrialisation and public ownership, and reform England’s social care system. Political reactions included support from Sadiq Khan, John Swinney and Michelle O’Neill, while Nigel Farage demanded an immediate general election and the Conservatives criticised Labour’s expected tax-and-spend agenda. The live blog also reported a suspected politically targeted murder investigation involving former MP Ann Widdecombe, scrutiny of the collapsed China espionage prosecution, Patrick Spencer’s acquittal on sexual assault charges, and NHS preparations for a possible severe winter surge in flu and other viruses.

England's World Cup last-16 match against Mexico has been delayed by one hour to a 2am BST kick-off because of storms in Mexico City, after earlier confusion over a possible six-hour change. FIFA cited safety concerns and weather protocols, while England fans and the Football Association faced travel and scheduling uncertainty. The match will take place at the high-altitude Estadio Azteca, where Mexico have lost only two of 89 matches, adding to the challenge for an England side that has produced unconvincing performances so far.

Andy Burnham has ruled out calling an early general election if he becomes prime minister, saying he would implement Labour’s 2024 manifesto. In a Reddit Q&A, he pledged to overhaul what he called a broken Westminster system, pursue electoral reform, maintain the state-pension triple lock, fully fund the defence investment plan, support Ukraine and continue efforts to improve ties with Europe. He also outlined plans for a Manchester-based No 10 North, greater devolution for London and the devolved nations, and potential tax and land-value reforms. The live coverage also reports criticism of Keir Starmer’s late decision to allow pubs to open until 5am for England’s World Cup match, schools permitting later starts, pressure over council funding in Westminster, and concerns about gender balance in a future Burnham cabinet.

The death toll from two powerful earthquakes that struck Venezuela has exceeded 1,400, while tens of thousands remain missing and the crucial 48-to-72-hour rescue window has narrowed. Civilians and volunteers have criticized the government for lacking equipment and preparedness, as rescue teams work through collapsed buildings and continuing aftershocks. Venezuela says international assistance has arrived, including teams from the UK, US, Netherlands, Switzerland and Colombia. The UK has deployed 68 personnel, sniffer dogs and drones, and pledged £2 million in humanitarian aid. The earthquakes, measuring 7.2 and 7.5, caused widespread destruction along the Caribbean coast, particularly in La Guaira, and could ultimately claim more than 10,000 lives according to US Geological Survey estimates.

A provisional temperature of 37.3°C in Santon Downham, Suffolk, set a new UK June record as an exceptional heatwave continued. The UK Health Security Agency extended amber heat health alerts across England, while hospitals reported critical incidents, transport networks faced disruption, and officials warned of risks to vulnerable people and health-service capacity. South East Water prepared bottled-water stations and imposed a hosepipe ban, while campaigners said sewage had been discharged into British waters for more than 2,800 hours. The heat also prompted an electricity-margin notice, airport disruption, severe-weather warnings and a lightning-related nursing-home fire. Germany separately recorded a provisional June record of 40.9°C.

A Luton Airport Express train collided with the rear of an East Midlands Railway service near Bedford South, killing one male driver and injuring 100 people. Twenty-eight remain in hospital, including nine in critical condition, while investigators examine train and signalling data and continue gathering evidence. The Rail Accident Investigation Branch and British Transport Police are leading the investigation, with an update expected in the coming days. The Midland Main Line remains closed between Bedford and London St Pancras, and operators are accepting affected East Midlands Railway tickets on alternative routes. Eyewitnesses described severe injuries and a major emergency response, which passengers and officials praised.

Andy Burnham is expected to become prime minister on Monday 20 July if he is the only candidate to succeed Sir Keir Starmer as Labour leader. Labour plans to announce the result at a special conference on 17 July, followed by Starmer’s resignation to the King and Burnham’s appointment on the next working day. Polling suggests Labour could move ahead of Reform UK under Burnham, although the lead is described as fragile and neither party would be close to a parliamentary majority. The political transition is accompanied by disputes over immigration and ministerial discipline, with Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood seeking the dismissal of migration minister Mike Tapp after he challenged proposed settlement rules. Other developments include pressure for higher defence spending, uncertainty over the Hillsborough Law, possible pension tax deductions, an investigation into an impermissible Green Party donation, agricultural river pollution enforcement failures and a High Court defeat for Andrew and Tristan Tate.

A three-year-old boy remains in critical but stable condition after allegedly being thrown over a wall into the crocodile enclosure at Johnsons of Old Hurst zoo in Cambridgeshire. The child was reportedly attacked by at least one crocodile before zoo staff, including Tracey Johnson, entered the enclosure and pulled him to safety. Police arrested a 30-year-old man on suspicion of attempted murder, but released him on bail after determining he was not fit for interview; investigations continue. The zoo has closed its Tropical House until further notice, while witnesses and officials have praised staff for their swift response.

Donald Trump says a US-Iran memorandum covering a 60-day ceasefire, the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, Iranian oil sales and renewed nuclear talks is close to completion. Iran is more cautious, while unresolved disputes over sanctions relief, nuclear enrichment, the Lebanon conflict and control of the strait could still derail the agreement. Analysts identify Israel, particularly Benjamin Netanyahu's opposition to an interim deal with Iran, as the most serious threat to the process, while Gulf states broadly support negotiations but fear legitimising Iranian leverage over Hormuz. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer welcomed the reported progress.

Bulgaria won Eurovision 2026 for the first time after Dara's song “Bangaranga” received 516 points, driven by a late surge in the public vote. Israel's Noam Bettan finished second with 343 points amid protests and calls to boycott the country's participation over the Gaza war. Romania, Australia, Italy and Finland completed the top six, while the UK finished last with one point and received no public-vote points for the fourth consecutive year. The contest featured elaborate staging, technical problems and politically influenced voting, with next year's competition set to take place in Sofia.

King Charles III sent Sir David Attenborough a surprise 100th-birthday tribute at a Royal Albert Hall celebration. In a BBC Studios film, Charles writes a personal card recalling their first meeting in 1958 and thanking Attenborough for inspiring global interest in nature and conservation; animals then deliver the message to Attenborough's London home. The event also featured tributes from Prince William, performances by Dan Smith and the BBC Concert Orchestra, and appearances by numerous celebrity guests. Attenborough's work on programmes including Blue Planet II and Planet Earth 3 was praised for raising awareness of environmental threats and inspiring successive generations.

Keir Starmer is not expected to oppose Andy Burnham’s bid to become Labour’s candidate in the Makerfield by-election, after sitting MP Josh Simons announced he would step down to make way for him. Burnham says he wants to bring his Greater Manchester record to national government, while supporters view his return as a potential route to a future Labour leadership contest. The candidacy still requires approval from Labour’s National Executive Committee and Burnham would face a competitive election, with Reform UK promising a major campaign. The developments come amid a serious crisis for Starmer, including Wes Streeting’s resignation as health secretary and calls from Labour MPs for the prime minister to quit. James Murray has replaced Streeting. The live coverage also reports criticism of Angela Rayner’s HMRC outcome and controversy surrounding Green Party leader Zack Polanski.

Alex Jenkinson, 39, has been charged with two counts of using threatening, abusive or insulting words or behaviour after allegedly approaching Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor near Sandringham while wearing a balaclava and carrying a crowbar. He also faces a charge of failing to provide a blood specimen. Police say a man was arrested after behaving intimidatory in Wolferton. Andrew reportedly fled in a car with help from private security. The incident has prompted calls for his protection arrangements to be reviewed, although former royal protection chief Dai Davies said the privately funded security appeared to have worked and opposed restoring taxpayer-funded protection. The incident comes amid continuing scrutiny of Andrew’s association with Jeffrey Epstein and other allegations, which Andrew denies.

US forces carried out fresh strikes in southern Iran against boats allegedly laying mines and missile-launch sites, describing the actions as defensive while a fragile ceasefire remained in place. The attacks coincided with diplomatic meetings in Doha and ongoing US-Iran negotiations over ending the three-month-old war, with Donald Trump warning of more severe attacks if no agreement is reached. Fighting and maritime tensions continued around the Strait of Hormuz, including US strikes on tankers entering Iranian ports, Iranian attacks on Gulf states, and a US blockade of Iranian shipping. The conflict has disrupted global oil and gas supplies, contributed to an energy crisis and prompted reports of a suspected oil spill near Kharg Island. The live coverage also reported parallel ceasefire efforts involving Russia and Ukraine, violence between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon, and international calls for de-escalation.

Two people were killed and three seriously injured when a car drove into pedestrians on Leipzig's Grimmaische Strasse and Augustusplatz. Police arrested a 33-year-old German man from the Leipzig area, who is being investigated on suspicion of murder and attempted murder. Officials said they believe he acted alone and that there was no continuing threat, while the motive remained unclear. The incident is discussed amid a series of vehicle-ramming and stabbing attacks in Germany in recent years.

A BMG Research poll for The i Paper finds that nearly one-third of Britons have changed or are considering changing their holiday plans because of concerns about flight disruption linked to the US-Israeli war with Iran and the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz. Domestic tourism businesses, including Butlin’s, Airbnb, Snaptrip and Sykes Holiday Cottages, report rising demand for UK breaks, with some property owners cutting prices and shortening minimum stays. The Government says airlines may cancel or merge flights in advance if fuel shortages arise, while Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander says current jet-fuel supplies are stable and most travellers should be able to proceed with their summer plans normally. The conflict is also prompting broader reductions in discretionary spending and caution over major purchases.

Police arrested a 28-year-old man in Peckham on suspicion of receiving and attempting to sell former Downing Street chief of staff Morgan McSweeney’s stolen government phone, which has not been recovered. The live blog also follows UK local and Welsh elections, including voting by party leaders and concerns over photo-ID access. Sir Keir Starmer faces pressure from Labour MPs and is reportedly preparing a more left-wing political pitch, closer ties with the EU and a post-election speech on the Government’s direction. Other updates cover convictions of two men accused of shadow policing for China, investigations into alleged antisemitic attacks and synagogue arson, scrutiny of Green leader Zack Polanski, Brexit’s possible return to the political agenda, and warnings that war-related energy and fertiliser costs could drive food inflation higher.

A 19-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of a bomb hoax offence after a potentially suspicious bag was found near Birmingham’s Utilita Arena during Peter Kay’s performance. The comedian was taken off stage and the 15,800-capacity venue was evacuated on police advice. Searches found no suspicious items, everyone was evacuated safely, and the suspect remained in custody while West Midlands Police continued its investigation. Ticket holders were due to be contacted by the venue.

Investigative reporting identifies five new revelations about Jeffrey Epstein’s alleged UK sex-trafficking network. Epstein reportedly housed women in four flats in Kensington and Chelsea, six of whom later said they were abused; some were allegedly coerced into recruiting others. Records also indicate that women were repeatedly transported between London and Paris by Eurostar, including after Virginia Giuffre’s 2015 complaint. Police forces and the National Crime Agency are examining how victims entered the UK and whether others facilitated the abuse, while critics argue that the Metropolitan Police’s earlier decision not to investigate allowed further exploitation. Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor remains under investigation over related allegations and denies wrongdoing.