Catherine Mackinlay

Three men—Laurentiu-Daniel Nitisoara, Ioan Asafeti and Sergiu Plastin—pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit burglary with intent to steal and cause criminal damage after Metropolitan Police officers foiled an attempt to tunnel from a Tooting massage parlour into a neighbouring jewellery shop. Detectives linked the organised crime group to several London jewellery-shop burglaries between May and July, with estimated losses exceeding £700,000. Plastin was arrested at Stansted Airport while allegedly trying to flee to Ireland, and investigators identified possible links to similar offences in Europe. The men are due to be sentenced at Kingston Crown Court; the Met also reported a 12.1% year-on-year fall in commercial burglaries across London.

Reports of smoke from an empty Southeastern train travelling to a depot at Clapham Junction caused line closures and delays between Balham and London Victoria, affecting Southern, Gatwick Express and other routes. Firefighters and engineers attended, and the cause was identified as a brake fault rather than a serious fire. The train was moved safely, all lines reopened, and disruption ended later that afternoon.

Students who are dissatisfied with their GCSE results may be able to resit exams, with English and maths available in November as well as during the regular May or June exam period. Students aged 16 to 19 without at least a grade 4 in English or maths must continue studying those subjects, although they may take Functional Skills instead of resitting the GCSE. Resits are often free for students below grade 4 in the year after their first attempt, while other candidates may pay around £75 to £150 per exam, rising to approximately £150 to £500 for private candidates. Resits can be arranged through a former school, a sixth-form centre, a further-education college or a private exam centre.

Police Scotland has launched a murder investigation after Paul Lafferty, 50, and Gary Beaton, 54, were found with serious injuries in a flat on Chancellor Street in Partick, Glasgow. Both men were pronounced dead at the scene, and post-mortem examinations were conducted. Detectives are reviewing CCTV, conducting door-to-door inquiries and appealing to anyone who saw either man or noticed anything suspicious in the area from August 14 onward. Information can be submitted through Police Scotland, its Major Incident Public Portal or Crimestoppers.

GCSE results day for pupils in England, Wales and Northern Ireland is scheduled for Thursday, August 20, 2026. Schools will set their own collection times, generally from around 8am, while pupils who are absent may arrange delivery by email or post or nominate someone to collect the results. In England, results will also be available through the Education Record app from 11am. Results slips are provisional, with final certificates expected to reach schools about three months later. The article explains grade boundaries, the P1/P2 system, England’s 9–1 grading scale, Wales and Northern Ireland’s letter grades, mark equivalents and spoken-language endorsements.

GCSE results can be released from 8am on Thursday, August 20, although each school sets its own collection time and arrangements. Students on holiday, ill or otherwise unable to attend should contact their school in advance to arrange delivery by email or post, or nominate someone to collect the results with the required authorization and identification. Results can also be accessed through the Education Record app for eligible students. Those concerned about their grades can discuss marking reviews, clerical checks and next steps with their school, teachers or exam boards.

The Met Office says another immediate UK heatwave is unlikely, with temperatures expected to decline after highs of up to 27°C in southern England on August 17. Cooler air moving south from the north should bring below-average temperatures, heavy showers and thunderstorms by Thursday, followed by somewhat drier but still cool conditions on Friday. The forecast only extends through Friday, so hotter weather later in the summer has not been ruled out.

A fire broke out on the second floor of a 13-storey hotel on Empire Way in Wembley on August 14, 2026. Around 150 people evacuated before six fire engines and approximately 40 London Fire Brigade firefighters arrived; no injuries were immediately reported. The Brigade received 29 calls, brought the blaze under control at 1:21pm, and continued extinguishing remaining pockets of fire. The cause remained under investigation, and the hotel had not been officially identified, although Holiday Inn London–Wembley was reported closed to guest stays. There was no indication that The Weeknd and Playboi Carti’s scheduled Wembley Stadium concert would be affected.

A wildfire near Stourbridge Golf Course spread across roughly 40 acres, destroying six homes and leaving several buildings structurally unsafe. Crews remain at the scene monitoring smoke and extinguishing hotspots, while exclusion zones and evacuations remain in place. A child, three firefighters and several members of the public required medical treatment. The fire service urged residents to avoid the area and keep windows and doors closed if affected by smoke. The cause has not been confirmed, and new GoFundMe data indicates a sharp increase in UK fundraisers for families whose homes have been destroyed by fires.

A fifth UK heatwave of the summer brought temperatures as high as 38.1C at Kew Gardens, making Thursday the hottest day of 2026 so far and the fifth hottest day on record. The Met Office issued a rare amber extreme-heat warning across large parts of England, warning of risks to health, power systems, roads and railways. Wildfires continued in the New Forest, Saddleworth Moor, Hampshire and Dorset, while drought conditions and dry vegetation increased fire risks. Heat-related disruption affected multiple rail operators, and water-supply problems persisted in parts of east London and Essex. Prime Minister Andy Burnham urged retailers to withdraw disposable barbecues and called for checks on vulnerable people, while Green MP Adrian Ramsay called for a funded national Heat Resilience Strategy.

A fire engulfed the Putri Yasmin ferry while it was traveling from Bali’s Padang Bai port to Lembar port in Lombok. Rescuers and passing vessels evacuated 172 people, including two Australian tourists, while a 19-year-old Indonesian woman died and at least two passengers were hospitalized. More than 200 personnel, including navy, patrol and rescue crews, supported the operation in difficult conditions with waves reaching up to four metres. Authorities found that the number aboard exceeded the official manifest, and the cause of the fire remains unknown.

The next solar eclipse visible from the UK will occur on August 2, 2027, appearing as a partial eclipse across Britain despite being total along a path through parts of Spain, North Africa and the Middle East. The eclipse will be visible in the UK from roughly 8:57am to 11:01am BST, with coverage varying by location. Britons will have to wait until September 23, 2090, for the next total solar eclipse visible from the UK. The last such event occurred in Cornwall on August 11, 1999.

Daniel Kinahan, described as a suspected Irish crime boss, was extradited from Dubai to Ireland and appeared before the Special Criminal Court in Dublin. He was charged with directing the activities of a criminal organisation between October 2015 and April 2017. Kinahan was remanded in custody and transferred to Portlaoise Prison, with his next court appearance scheduled for October 5; any bail application must be made to the High Court.

Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service declared a major incident after separate woodland fires at Strawberry Hill Heath and Sherwood Pines near Mansfield placed significant pressure on resources. Fourteen crews were deployed, with nearly half of the county’s fire engines attending the sites. Around 36,000 square metres of woodland and undergrowth were affected at Strawberry Hill Heath. Residents were advised to avoid the area, keep windows and doors closed if affected by smoke, and avoid fires, barbecues and careless cigarette disposal. The warning comes as hot, dry weather raises wildfire risks across eastern and southeastern England, with the Fire Severity Index forecasting exceptionally severe conditions and temperatures potentially reaching 36C.

Dozens of people protested outside the former RAF Barnham base in Suffolk over proposals to use it to accommodate asylum seekers. The demonstration followed several nights of unrest in nearby Thetford, where police reported assaults and attempted attacks on homes linked to asylum seekers. Police attended the protest to support lawful expression while protecting residents, road users and demonstrators. The Home Office said the site remains under assessment and would require planning and other approvals; no asylum seekers are currently housed there.

Several people were shot in the Agervang neighbourhood of Holbæk, Denmark, in an incident police suspect was a criminal underworld showdown. Witnesses reported masked men, a white car and multiple gunshots, while the injured were taken to hospital. The perpetrators remained at large, and police cordoned off the area, searched with dogs and appealed for witnesses, photographs and video. Holbæk Mayor Christina Krzyrosiak Hansen condemned the incident and said she was following the investigation closely.

The Met Office has identified the UK locations expected to have the best views of a partial solar eclipse on August 12, 2026. Plymouth is forecast to experience the greatest obscuration in the UK, at 94.66% around 7:16 p.m., followed by Cardiff, Belfast, Birmingham, London and other cities. The eclipse will occur shortly before sunset, with no totality visible from the UK, and observers are advised to use certified eclipse glasses or a pinhole projector rather than look directly at the Sun.

Powerball’s August 9 draw offered a record UK-linked jackpot of £444 million, paid over 30 years. The winning numbers were 5, 9, 35, 54 and 63, with Powerball 7 and a 3x Power Play multiplier. The jackpot odds were approximately one in 292.2 million, while the overall odds of winning any prize were around one in 24.9. The draw took place in Florida, with UK players able to enter following Powerball’s expansion into the UK.

The August 8 National Lottery Lotto draw produced two jackpot winners, each receiving £4,267,573 after sharing the £8.5 million prize. Five additional players won £1 million each by matching five numbers and the Bonus Ball. The Lotto numbers were 14, 18, 26, 45, 50 and 53 in Round 1, with bonus ball 43, and 5, 10, 26, 28, 45 and 47 in Round 2, with bonus ball 14. The Thunderball numbers were 11, 16, 25, 32 and 35, with Thunderball 2; no player won the £500,000 top prize. The report also explains prize claims, tax treatment, entry deadlines and ways to play.

Samwari Solomon, 20, has been charged with murdering 16-year-old Khadeem Parris, who died from a stab wound after an incident at a property in Abington, Northamptonshire. Solomon was remanded in custody and is due to appear at Northampton Crown Court, following the earlier murder charge against Fuad Mohamud, 21. Three other people were arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender and released on police bail. Parris’s family described him as a kind, funny and resilient teenager who had been preparing to study plumbing and electrical work at college.

Authorities discovered 56 bodies in various states of decomposition in an unrefrigerated area of South Chicago Chapel Funeral Home. The Cook County Medical Examiner’s Office is working to identify the remains and locate death certificates, while Chicago police investigate and no arrests have been made. Illinois regulators moved to suspend Johanna Morgan’s funeral director licence, citing unsafe, deplorable conditions and a rodent infestation. The operators, Johanna and Clark Morgan, had previously been associated with a crematory shut down after similar allegations.

Authorities discovered 56 bodies in various states of decomposition in an unrefrigerated area of South Chicago Chapel Funeral Home. The Cook County Medical Examiner’s Office is working to identify the deceased and locate relevant documentation, while Chicago police continue investigating without making arrests. The funeral home’s operators, Johanna and Clark Morgan, were previously associated with a Chicago Heights crematory shut down after similar allegations. Illinois regulators moved to suspend Johanna Morgan’s funeral director licence, citing unsafe conditions, rodent infestation and danger to public welfare; Clark Morgan’s licence had already been revoked in 2024.

Rain is expected to move southeast across Northern Ireland, Scotland and parts of northern England on Sunday, with some heavy spells, while southern and southeastern England remain mostly sunny and reach the low 30s Celsius. Conditions should become drier later in the day, but a brief temperature dip on Monday will be followed by a renewed rise, potentially reaching 32–34°C on Wednesday and 36°C in parts of East Anglia and southeast England on Thursday. The UK Health Security Agency has issued yellow heat-health alerts for parts of England, and the Met Office says a widespread heatwave is likely across much of England and Wales.

Bristol Airport temporarily suspended all arrivals and departures after identifying a runway defect, diverting inbound flights to Gatwick, Birmingham, Cardiff and other airports. The runway was inspected and repaired overnight, with flights resuming on Saturday morning, although substantial delays remained. Passengers reported overcrowding, limited guidance and difficulties obtaining assistance, while airlines including easyJet and Jet2 issued separate updates. The airport advised travellers to contact their airlines directly and apologized for the disruption.

The August 7 EuroMillions draw produced the numbers 26, 29, 35, 38 and 47, with Lucky Stars 1 and 2. One ticket outside the UK won the £95,221,278 jackpot, while 523,001 UK tickets shared £3,510,517.30 in prizes. The UK Millionaire Maker code was TNXR 81195, awarding one £1 million prize. The Thunderball numbers were 4, 18, 28, 30 and 34, with Thunderball 11; nobody won the £500,000 jackpot. The live coverage also explained prize-claim deadlines, winning odds, number-selection strategies and upcoming National Lottery draws.

A Russian strike damaged Chornomorets Stadium in Odesa shortly before it was due to host a Ukrainian Premier League match, injuring at least one person and putting the fixture in doubt. The report also details a US intelligence assessment that Russia could test NATO through a limited incursion, cyberattack or strikes on critical infrastructure between autumn and 2029. NATO says it is prepared to deter and defend against threats, while Western officials assess the likelihood of a full-scale conflict as low but fear a smaller operation designed to expose divisions within the alliance and pressure support for Ukraine.

The Perseid meteor shower is expected to peak overnight from August 12 into August 13, only hours after a major partial solar eclipse visible in the UK. The best viewing window is forecast to be between midnight and 5:30am, with up to 150 meteors per hour possible under ideal conditions. A new Moon should provide dark skies, while viewers are advised to avoid light pollution, allow their eyes to adjust, check the weather and use an unobstructed horizon. The shower is caused by Earth passing through debris from Comet 109P/Swift-Tuttle and has inspired myths and traditions including the Greek legend of Perseus and the Christian association with the Tears of St Lawrence.

South West Water will impose a temporary hosepipe ban from 12:01am on 8 August across Devon, Cornwall, parts of Dorset and Somerset, and the Isles of Scilly. The restrictions follow months of below-average rainfall, drought conditions and increased demand, with a widespread heatwave expected to raise temperatures further. Customers will be prohibited from using hosepipes for activities including garden watering, car washing and filling pools, although exemptions apply to some vulnerable customers and essential household uses remain allowed. The company is urging people to conserve water immediately, while local MP Anna Gelderd says residents expect South West Water to reduce leaks and protect supplies.

Richard Dyson disappeared in South Yorkshire on 17 November 2019 and prosecutors said he was shot and dismembered by his landlord, Christopher Wright, after Wright suspected him of stealing firearms. Dyson’s remains were concealed in a concrete-filled barrel inside a trailer at Alderthwaite Farm and discovered six years later. Wright was convicted of murder, conspiracy to pervert the course of justice, preventing a lawful burial and numerous firearms offences, receiving a life sentence with a minimum term of 35 years. His associate Karl Schwable was convicted of conspiracy to pervert the course of justice and sentenced to three years in prison.

Between 3,000 and 5,000 migrants remain in Ceuta after an unprecedented influx from Morocco, despite nearly 75,000 returns. Ceuta leader Juan Jesús Vivas says the territory remains in a humanitarian and public-order emergency and that returning migrant minors is effectively impossible without their consent. Spain has allocated €25 million to support children, while volunteer groups report registering far more minors than official estimates. The crisis has intensified tensions between Spain, Morocco and EU member states, with some countries challenging Spain’s Schengen arrangements. EU officials suspect criminal networks and disinformation helped fuel the crossings, while Morocco blames a Spanish Supreme Court ruling that restricted summary returns.

A 15-year-old girl reported being raped at Pitt Hill Park in Holme Wood, Bradford, at around 6pm on August 5. West Yorkshire Police arrested two boys, aged 16 and 17, on suspicion of rape. Both remained in custody while detectives investigated, and specially trained officers were supporting the girl. Police appealed for witnesses and information.

Majorca will impose traffic controls on August 12 during the total solar eclipse, generally from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m., with earlier restrictions possible if congestion, full car parks or safety concerns arise. The measures apply to cars, vans, motorcycles and mopeds, restrict goods deliveries, and affect roads and access routes across the island, including Platja de Palma and Santa Ponça. Authorities are urging visitors to plan for delays, avoid roadside parking and emergency routes, and remain alert to wildfire risks.

Aldi, Arla and Polytag have launched an eight-week UK pilot using invisible UV-tagged wrap-around labels on Arla milk bottles to track their movement through recycling facilities. Detection units developed by Polytag will collect data on where and when bottles are processed, helping the companies assess recycling performance and packaging sustainability. The trial uses fluorescent ink from Sun Chemical and labels manufactured by Saica Flex, building on a 2023 pilot with a different label format.

The Met Office forecasts unsettled weather across parts of the UK on Wednesday, with heavy rain spreading through England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. The heaviest and most persistent rain is expected later in the day, with showers potentially continuing into Thursday. A yellow thunderstorm warning for Northern Ireland highlights risks including torrential rain, hail, strong winds, localised flooding, travel disruption and power cuts, while southern areas are expected to become drier from Thursday.

Donald Trump warned that the UK could become wealthier by expanding North Sea oil drilling or face bankruptcy if it kept the resource closed. He said he was impressed by Andy Burnham after a phone call in which they discussed trade, defence, the Middle East and economic growth, and indicated that he expected a good relationship. Burnham has not pledged to fully reopen the North Sea, instead supporting a pragmatic approach while maintaining Labour's commitment not to issue new oil and gas exploration licences. Trump also criticized Europe's immigration policies and reliance on wind power.

FIFA president Gianni Infantino is facing intensified pressure after the collapse of a proposal to sell Thrive Capital a 20% stake in FIFA Forward Enterprise, a planned subsidiary for broadcasting, sponsorship, licensing and ticketing rights. Reports said Infantino sought support from the Trump administration, but the U.S. State Department denied that Marco Rubio had a scheduled call with him, while FIFA denied recent contact with Donald Trump. The resignation of adviser Carlos Cordeiro and criticism from FIFA executive Kevin Lamour have fueled an internal revolt. A reported UEFA boycott of FIFA competitions, potentially including the 2030 World Cup, would create a major crisis for the governing body, although Infantino has not resigned.

A magnitude 4.1 earthquake struck near Librilla in Spain’s Murcia region, with tremors felt across Murcia, Alicante and Albacete. More than 80 emergency calls were received, but no injuries or property damage were reported. The quake was the strongest recorded in the area in six months and followed a rise in seismic activity, including seven tremors in the preceding days. The article explains that southern Spain is prone to earthquakes because it lies near the collision zone between the Eurasian and Nubian tectonic plates, and recalls the destructive 2011 Lorca earthquake.

A shallow earthquake initially measured at magnitude 7.1 by Japan’s Meteorological Agency, and 6.8 by the US Geological Survey, struck Kumamoto Prefecture on Kyushu. The tremor reached the maximum Shindo 7 intensity, damaged buildings, roads, bridges and Kumamoto Castle, caused fires and power outages, disrupted rail and air services, and briefly prompted a tsunami advisory. Aeon Mall Kumamoto was severely damaged after an apparent explosion, with police initially fearing numerous fatalities and 20 to 30 employees reportedly unreachable. Rescue teams, police, firefighters and 3,600 Self-Defense Force personnel were deployed, while hundreds of thousands of residents received evacuation orders. Authorities warned that potentially powerful aftershocks could continue for up to a week, with the greatest risk in the following two to three days.

An inquest heard that nine-year-old Hudson Paterson was asphyxiated by his mother, Tasmin Paterson, at their home in Bodmin, Cornwall, in September 2024. Tasmin then took her own life. The hearing described relationship, health, financial and housing difficulties involving Tasmin and her partner Marcus Hughes, who discovered the bodies and was quickly ruled out by police. The coroner concluded that Tasmin’s death was suicide and Hudson’s death was an unlawful killing.

Robert Bush is being sentenced at Hull Crown Court after pleading guilty to 67 offences linked to Legacy Independent Funeral Directors, including preventing lawful and decent burials, fraud, fraudulent trading and theft. Prosecutors said he mistreated hundreds of bereaved families, retained bodies for months in various states of decomposition, gave families ashes that did not belong to their relatives and defrauded customers of more than £500,000. Victim statements described profound grief, guilt, anger and distress, while the hearing also highlighted Bush’s personal spending, the absence of formal funeral-industry regulation and calls for stronger oversight. The live hearing was adjourned until Tuesday.

A water supply failure linked to problems at Bough Beech Water Treatment Works disrupted toilets, restaurants and cafés at Gatwick Airport’s North and South terminals during the peak summer getaway. Gatwick distributed bottled water, worked with SES Water and airport partners, and said all scheduled Sunday flights departed. Water supplies were fully restored overnight, with facilities reopened and Monday’s first flights operating as scheduled.

A man and a woman were pronounced dead after being recovered from the water at Fistral Beach in Newquay on Sunday evening. Police, ambulance crews, HM Coastguard, lifeboats and a helicopter attended, while the beach and nearby road were temporarily cordoned off. Their families have been informed, and an investigation will determine the circumstances of the incident.

A Romanian F-16 pilot shot down a drone after it entered Romanian airspace near Sulina, marking the first such shootdown by the NATO member state. Italian and Romanian fighter jets were scrambled, while emergency authorities issued RO-Alert warnings in several southeastern counties. The drone’s operator and origin remain unknown, and Romanian officials are investigating while calling for greater investment in air defense and counter-drone systems.

UK players await the first Powerball draw open to British participants, offering an estimated £300 million jackpot paid as a stepped 30‑year annuity. Entries close at 11:55 pm, with results expected around 4 am UK time. Updates outline how to play, prize tiers, odds, and comparisons with EuroMillions, noting that Powerball offers larger but less frequent wins.

Bernard Lewis, founder of River Island, left an estate valued at more than £40 million following his death at age 100. Probate documents show his wife Vanessa inherited his share of their home and personal belongings, while a declaration explained that several children received smaller portions because they had been provided for during his lifetime. Lewis built his retail empire from postwar beginnings as a greengrocer to launching Chelsea Girl and later rebranding it as River Island, which expanded internationally and online, earning industry recognition including a Lifetime Achievement Award.

A judge ordered Donald Trump to provide financial records in his £7.5 billion defamation lawsuit against the BBC concerning a Panorama documentary on the US Capitol riots. BBC lawyers argued the information was necessary to assess Trump’s claimed financial damages, while Trump’s team called the disclosure request burdensome. The BBC has apologised for editing that created an impression of a direct call for violent action but is seeking dismissal of the case, warning of a chilling effect on journalism and disputing Florida’s jurisdiction.

France approved legislation banning social media use for children under 15, with a phased rollout starting in September and extending to existing accounts by 2027. Emmanuel Macron and government officials promoted the measure as a major step in protecting minors online, supported by advocates concerned about digital content’s effects. The European Commission is considering similar restrictions and developing age‑verification tools, which France has begun testing.

Forecast models indicate a potential late‑July heatwave with temperatures possibly reaching 36C in southern and southeastern England and over 30C in 23 counties. NetWeather maps show peak heat around July 29–30, while the Met Office expects generally warm conditions with changeable weather, some rain in the northwest, and the possibility of very warm temperatures returning in early August.

US military strikes against Iran have intensified after the deaths of several American service members, prompting Defense Priorities analyst Jennifer Kavanagh to warn that Donald Trump faces only two viable options: negotiate a settlement acknowledging Iran’s strengthened position or withdraw and allow regional actors to manage the conflict’s aftermath. She argues that restoring the pre‑war status quo in the Strait of Hormuz is unattainable through military force and that escalation risks further US losses and strategic damage. Fresh US airstrikes on Iran’s Revolutionary Guard and a renewed naval blockade underscore the deepening conflict over the strategically vital waterway.

Police launched an appeal after a woman was allegedly raped in Sandwell Valley Country Park, where she was found injured on June 29. Officers believe she was raped following initial inquiries and have conducted CCTV reviews, forensic work, and patrols in the area. The woman received hospital care and is being supported by specialist officers. Authorities urge anyone who was in the park between 8am and 11am on the day to come forward with information.

Rain and drizzle are expected across northern and western parts of the UK on Tuesday, especially in Scotland and Northern Ireland, while most other areas remain dry and warm with temperatures reaching up to 26C. Cloudier regions in the far north will stay cooler, and any rainfall will be light and patchy. High pressure will keep conditions settled elsewhere, with sunny spells across central, southern and eastern England and Wales. A Met Office list identifies 11 areas most likely to see rain.

A large wildfire on Arthur’s Seat in Edinburgh sent thick smoke across the city, prompting multiple fire crews and specialist resources to respond. Police closed nearby roads and urged the public to avoid the area as videos showed flames continuing to burn. Local MP Chris Murray expressed concern, while separate wildfire activity persisted in the Cairngorms. Emergency services reported progress but warned conditions could shift quickly.

Two riders, Sophie Fouracre and Kerry Donoghue, died in separate cross-country accidents at British Eventing competitions in Oxfordshire and Cumbria. Emergency teams responded but were unable to save either rider. Both events were abandoned, and British Eventing announced full incident reviews. Chief executive Rosie Williams expressed condolences and gratitude to responders. Support has been offered to the equestrian community, and the incidents follow other recent fatalities in the sport.

Spain faces a third heatwave of the summer, with temperatures expected to reach 45C in several regions, including Andalusia, the Ebro valley and inland Mallorca. Aemet forecasts the heatwave to intensify from July 21 and last until at least July 23, driven by hot, dry air from North Africa. Prolonged high temperatures and warm nights increase health risks and raise the danger of extreme wildfire conditions, as firefighters continue to battle major blazes in Zaragoza and the Sierra Norte de Guadalajara. Officials warn of successive heatwaves complicating wildfire management efforts.

Donald Trump praised incoming UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham for signalling openness to expanding North Sea oil production, calling it a path to transforming the UK from a “poverty‑stricken disaster” into one of the world’s richest countries. Trump claimed Aberdeen residents welcomed Burnham’s stance and criticised the UK’s reliance on Norwegian oil and its use of wind turbines near the city. Burnham has not committed to issuing new drilling licences, though Labour deputy leader Lucy Powell said any policy shift would reflect pragmatic evaluation rather than a reversal of manifesto pledges. Labour maintains that new licences would not reduce bills or improve energy security, while acknowledging that North Sea resources remain important during the transition to cleaner energy.

Iran’s supreme leader Mojtaba Khamenei warned the United States and Donald Trump of “unforgettable lessons” after two American service members were killed in Iranian missile and drone attacks in Jordan. The clashes followed continued exchanges of strikes between the US and Iran across the region, including Iranian attacks on sites in Kuwait, Bahrain and Jordan. Iran suspended its commitments under a recent interim agreement, accusing Washington of violating the deal. US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth honored the fallen troops, emphasizing strengthened resolve amid rising regional tensions.

Police bodycam footage shows officers tasering and arresting Dawood Safi after a knife attack in Uxbridge that killed dog walker Wayne Broadhurst and injured others. Court proceedings revealed Safi was experiencing severe psychosis during a violent rampage that began with an unprovoked stabbing of his landlord and ended with Broadhurst’s death. Prosecutors accepted a manslaughter plea due to evidence of Safi’s mental state, though he was also convicted of attempted murder. Sentencing is scheduled for October 5 pending medical assessments.

The National Lottery’s £9.5 million Lotto draw and the £500,000 Thunderball draw were held with winning numbers announced in a live blog. The jackpot operated under a Must Be Won rollover rule, with details provided on potential rolldowns, prize structures, and claiming procedures. Updates included Thunderball results, Lotto results from both rounds, reminders about upcoming draws, and information on a new Powerball game launching with large starting jackpots.

A railway security worker in Germany is in critical condition after falling from a regional train travelling about 75 mph near Ettlingen-Bruchhausen following an alleged violent confrontation with an intoxicated passenger. Reports indicate the passenger pushed the 26-year-old against a train door, causing it to break away and resulting in the worker’s fall. A large search operation later located him with life-threatening injuries. The passenger was arrested, and Karlsruhe authorities are examining witness accounts and video footage while investigating the train’s lack of door alerts. Deutsche Bahn and the EVG union condemned the incident as part of escalating attacks on railway staff.

Forecast charts indicate a band of heavy rain is expected to sweep across the UK on July 26, potentially ending a prolonged hot and dry spell. Rain is projected to move from western regions overnight into central and eastern England by midday, with the heaviest downpours likely in parts of Wales, Cumbria, Lincolnshire and East Anglia. The Met Office long‑range outlook suggests initially dry and sunny conditions before a more unsettled period develops, with high pressure likely returning by early August. Thirty‑four areas across England, Wales and Scotland are listed as facing significant rainfall.

Forecast maps indicate a 300‑mile band of rain will sweep across England on July 28, with the heaviest downpours likely over parts of North Yorkshire, County Durham, and other northern and central counties. Cooler air is expected to follow the rain band, creating a contrast between wetter western areas and warmer conditions in the southeast, where temperatures may still reach 28C. Additional pockets of heavy showers are forecast for central Scotland and Northern Ireland as high‑pressure influence weakens later in July.

Forecasts indicate temperatures will reach about 32C in several areas of England and Wales on Sunday as the current heatwave shifts westward. The UK Health Security Agency has issued amber heat health alerts for much of the country, with a yellow alert in the North East. Met Office officials expect continued hot, dry and sunny conditions into next week, with a possible rise in thunderstorms in southern regions from Monday. The heatwave has already set multiple UK temperature records in 2026.

Police responded to welfare concerns at a property on Dennis Estate in Kirton, where two children aged one and two were taken to hospital for treatment. A 23‑year‑old woman and 25‑year‑old man were arrested on suspicion of neglect and later released on bail with conditions. Detectives are conducting extensive inquiries and urging the public not to speculate as the investigation continues. No further information on the children’s condition has been released.

Forecasters warn that eight areas in northern and northwestern Scotland will see heavy rain on Friday, while most of the UK remains hot, dry and sunny during a heatwave. Rain is expected to reach the Highlands, islands, Orkney and Shetland, with the heaviest conditions early in the day. Temperatures elsewhere may rise to the mid‑30s, and largely settled weather is expected to continue into the following week.

Irish police confirm that a person of interest left the country shortly before the body of 43‑year‑old Jamey Carney was discovered in her Killarney home, prompting cooperation with international law enforcement. Investigators are searching for a man in his 20s linked to a local IPAS centre who reportedly flew from Dublin to Istanbul, potentially complicating extradition efforts. Gardaí continue to examine the crime scene, gather footage from the surrounding area, and appeal for information as national investigative units assist in the murder inquiry.

Bricks falling from a high-rise building near Grand Central Terminal triggered a major emergency response, leading to the evacuation of a nearby school and closures of surrounding streets. Firefighters found significant structural issues, including buckled columns and sagging floors. All occupants were accounted for, and no injuries were reported. The affected tower, a former Pfizer headquarters undergoing a large office-to-residential conversion designed by Gensler, continues to be assessed by engineers and city inspectors while emergency crews secure the area.

A lorry crash on the northbound M5 between Junctions 5 and 4A caused a full closure, major diesel spill and delays of up to two hours. Recovery teams, emergency services and specialist cleaners worked to remove the stranded HGV and inspect the roadway for damage. The motorway reopened gradually, with lane one remaining closed due to barrier damage before all lanes were restored later in the evening. Traffic delays and long queues persisted for several hours, with motorists reporting extended stationary periods and multiple vehicle breakdowns.

Live updates outline the timing of the EuroMillions and Thunderball draws, with a £69 million jackpot available and UK players also entered into the Millionaire Maker prize. The article explains draw mechanics, prize structures, anonymity rules and rollover possibilities, while highlighting a recent £1 million winning couple from Horsham planning a family trip following medical challenges with their son. Readers are reminded of ticket deadlines and upcoming announcement times for winning numbers and prize breakdowns.

Only five of JD Wetherspoon’s roughly 800 UK pubs will open for England’s 1am World Cup match against Mexico despite the government allowing extended opening hours until 5am. Fans in the North East will have better access, with two of the open pubs located there. England advanced to the last-16 match after a 2-1 win over DR Congo, with two late goals from Harry Kane. Prime Minister Keir Starmer confirmed extended licensing nationwide, but most pub operators, including Wetherspoon, have opted not to open due to staffing challenges. A list of the five Wetherspoon sites planning to open was released.

A 29-year-old man, Sultani Bakatash, was found guilty at Bolton Crown Court of raping two 14-year-old girls after grooming one online and giving both alcohol before assaulting them. Police swiftly arrested him after the victims reported the attacks, and a jury convicted him on multiple charges including rape and sexual assault. Greater Manchester Police praised the victims for their bravery and stressed their commitment to pursuing offenders who target vulnerable individuals. Sentencing is scheduled for September 9.

A 58-year-old man, Sean Gray, has been charged with the murders of Adrian Horton and Uschi Schild, whose bodies were found in a St Leonards property. Police said the victims and suspect knew each other and are not seeking additional suspects. Investigations and an increased police presence continue in the surrounding area.

The Met Office forecasts very high grass pollen levels across parts of England, especially the East of England, London and the South East, with high levels across much of England and Wales and moderate to high levels in parts of Scotland. Warm, dry and settled weather is contributing to increased pollen release and spread, which may worsen hay fever symptoms. Conditions may ease slightly on Saturday, though central, eastern and southern England are expected to continue experiencing high pollen levels, while Scotland and Northern Ireland face lower risk.

Donald Trump announced a symbolic National Scallops Day while celebrating a NOAA decision to reopen part of Georges Bank to commercial scallop fishing. He used the announcement to criticize Barack Obama and Joe Biden and urged support for Republicans in the midterm elections. Trump framed the reopening as an economic boost for East Coast fishing communities and highlighted past actions expanding fishing access. Environmental groups and regulatory bodies warned the area is an important habitat and that reopening could threaten long-term sustainability, while commercial fishermen argued for access based on updated science.

Blackpool will illuminate its tower in blue on July 27 in memory of toddler Preston Davey, following a request attributed to his birth mother. A vigil is also being planned nearly three years after Preston was murdered by his adoptive father, Jamie Varley, who received a whole‑life sentence for murder and multiple abuse offences. His partner, John McGowan‑Fazakerley, was convicted of related charges and sentenced to 25 years. The tribute follows news that the pair’s former home has been put up for auction, with the listing disclosing the owner’s convictions for transparency.

Zoo owners Andy and Tracey Johnson released a statement describing the alleged throwing of a three‑year‑old boy into a crocodile enclosure as one of their most distressing experiences, praising visitors, staff and emergency services for their rapid actions that enabled the child’s rescue and treatment. The boy remains in stable condition with serious injuries at Addenbrooke’s Hospital, facing a long recovery. Police arrested a 30‑year‑old man on suspicion of attempted murder and released him on bail as enquiries continue. The zoo’s Tropical House has since reopened following a brief closure out of respect for the family.

A collision on the clockwise M60 between junctions 16 and 17 stopped traffic and caused significant delays, with emergency services responding and recovery work underway. National Highways reported around 20‑minute delays and congestion stretching two miles, with updates expected as the situation develops.

Weather charts indicate a surge of hot air could push temperatures up to 35C across parts of southern and eastern England, with around 30 counties forecast to exceed 30C between July 8 and 9. The heat is expected to develop first in central southern England before shifting eastward toward London and the Home Counties, while northern areas may approach 30C. Wales is likely to experience temperatures in the high 20s, and Scotland and Northern Ireland remain cooler. The Met Office projects warm, mostly dry conditions under high pressure through mid‑July.

The draws on July 1 produced four new millionaires through the Lotto’s two‑round format, although no one won the £2 million jackpot. The Thunderball draw created one jackpot winner of £500,000, with thousands receiving smaller prizes. Officials highlighted an unclaimed £12 million Lotto ticket bought in South Wales and confirmed that a previously missing Set For Life winner has now come forward. Updates throughout the evening detailed the winning numbers, prize breakdowns and reminders about the new Lotto structure, which gives each ticket two chances to win.

Denby Pottery has halted online orders after entering administration in March, following the end of manufacturing at its historic Derbyshire site. The company cites falling demand, high energy and labor costs, and tighter financial markets as key factors in its collapse. Administrators confirmed production has ceased and more than 120 jobs have been lost, while efforts to find a buyer continue. Outlet stores remain open offering steep discounts amid ongoing clearance efforts, and the company’s website will stay accessible for operational updates.

Two masked climbers scaled the Empire State Building’s transmission tower, unfurled a banner with a peace message and appeared to livestream the stunt before one proposed to the other. The pair later descended and were taken into custody as authorities secured the observation deck. Experts warned of the significant risks involved in climbing the active transmission structure in hot conditions.

A house fire on Cragside Avenue in North Shields resulted in the deaths of a man in his 40s and a woman in her 70s, while a man in his 70s was taken to hospital. Five fire engines and multiple ambulance units responded as firefighters rescued occupants and extinguished the blaze. Police and fire investigators have launched a joint investigation, with Detective Inspector Barry McAtominey urging witnesses to come forward as enquiries remain in early stages. Two nearby homes were evacuated as a precaution, and next of kin have been informed.

Six employees of a youth welfare facility in Stade, Germany, were killed in a shooting, with several others injured. Police arrested a main suspect and placed two additional people under police measures. The attack occurred on Dankersstrasse, prompting a major operation, public warnings and misinformation alerts. Authorities are investigating the motive and sequence of events, while officials described the act as an extremely violent crime carried out in cold blood.

A newborn baby was found dead in a portable toilet at the Electric Forest music festival in Rothbury, Michigan, prompting an investigation by Michigan State Police. The body was discovered by a sanitation worker during routine maintenance. Police appealed for witnesses and urged the public to avoid speculation online. Festival organizers expressed shock and asked anyone with information to assist investigators. The multi-day festival concluded Sunday and draws thousands of attendees each year.

Forecasts show a developing four‑day heatwave in early July with temperatures rising to 36C in southern and eastern England. Heat builds from July 6, spreading high temperatures across the Midlands and Wales, while Scotland remains cooler. ECMWF maps highlight July 9 as the peak, with widespread 30C to 35C temperatures and isolated areas hitting 36C. The Met Office long‑range outlook supports the expectation of very warm or hot conditions during the working week.

A zoo in Cambridgeshire has reopened its Tropical House nine days after a three-year-old boy was seriously injured in a crocodile enclosure incident, for which a man has been arrested on suspicion of attempted murder. The child, now in stable condition, was rescued by members of the Johnson family, who own the zoo. Authorities continue to investigate, while messages of public support followed the reopening announcement.