Clare Lissaman

An 84-year-old woman, Paula Fenton, escaped a fire that gutted her bungalow in Willenhall after rescuing her dog and budgie. The blaze destroyed nearly all her belongings and severely damaged neighboring homes, while local residents helped contain the flames as firefighters attended multiple incidents across the West Midlands. Fenton, who has lung fibrosis but values her independence, is insured and receiving support from relatives and the local community.

An 84-year-old woman, Paula Fenton, lost her Willenhall bungalow and nearly all of her belongings after a fire spread through gardens during hot, dry conditions. She escaped with her dog and budgie and was helped by neighbours while firefighters attended other incidents. Three bungalows were severely damaged, and the wider West Midlands fires prompted a government warning against activities that could spark wildfires. Fenton is insured and is being supported by family, while a local appeal is collecting clothes and shoes for her.

An 11-year-old boy from Cannock has been arrested on suspicion of attempted arson with intent to endanger life in connection with grass fires in Cannock, Rugeley and Hednesford. He joins two boys aged 12 and 13 who were arrested over the weekend; all three have been released on bail with conditions. Staffordshire Police said some fires were deliberately started, while the cause of a major Cannock Chase fire remains under investigation.

A partial solar eclipse will be visible across the UK, with 90% to 96% of the sun covered and around 91% to 92% coverage in Birmingham. In the West Midlands, the eclipse is expected to begin around 18:14–18:15 BST, reach maximum coverage at about 19:11 and end by approximately 20:04–20:10. Viewers are advised never to look directly at the sun, even during maximum coverage, and to use certified eclipse glasses, solar telescopes or a pinhole projector. Events are planned at venues including Keele University, Jodrell Bank, Coventry city centre, Aston Hall and locations in Shropshire, while hilltops and areas with unobstructed western horizons may provide good views.

Sharon Osbourne marked the first anniversary of Ozzy Osbourne’s death by urging fans to honour him through loud music and remembering his humour and authenticity. Speaking in Birmingham ahead of the city’s first Ozzy Day, she reflected on his legacy, charity work and deep connection to his hometown. She described the previous year’s Back to the Beginning farewell concert as a beautiful family memory and praised the public outpouring of love, highlighting continuing efforts to support Parkinson’s research and local charities.

Sharon Osbourne marked the first anniversary of Ozzy Osbourne’s death by encouraging fans to honour him by playing music loudly, reflecting his humour, authenticity and deep connection to Birmingham. She spoke about the city’s inaugural Ozzy Day celebrations and highlighted his charitable legacy, including support for Parkinson’s research and children’s healthcare. She recalled the emotional farewell concert featuring major rock acts and described the global outpouring of affection that followed his passing.

Three theatres in the West Midlands—the Imperial Theatre in Walsall, Netherton Arts Centre in Dudley and the Prince of Wales Theatre in Cannock Chase—have been placed on the Theatres Trust’s at‑risk register due to closure, vacancy or deterioration. The Prince of Wales Theatre was closed to meet council budget pressures but may be reconsidered following a change in local administration. Netherton Arts Centre and the Imperial Theatre have remained unused for years and have been offered for sale without success. The Theatres Trust continues to support councils and community groups in efforts to secure viable futures for these historic venues, part of a wider national effort that has helped restore or replace more than 80 theatres since 2006.

A new indoor swimming complex at Abbey Fields in Kenilworth will open on 11 July after delays caused by the discovery of medieval structures at the site. The facility includes two pools and a café, with free sessions available on the opening weekend. While some residents had campaigned to retain the former outdoor lido, the district council said a year‑round indoor pool better met community needs. Additional local upgrades, including paddling pools in Warwick and Leamington Spa, are expected to reopen later in July once resurfacing work is completed.

Two new automatic speed cameras have been installed on the A46 between Stratford-upon-Avon and Alcester after repeated collisions, including three fatalities since 2021. Warwickshire Police attributed most crashes to drivers failing to properly assess others’ speed or path, prompting action by the Warwickshire Road Safety Partnership. Recent enforcement on another stretch of the A46 recorded multiple speeding motorists, including one travelling at 109mph. Local officials stressed the need for drivers to observe speed limits to improve safety, with National Highways highlighting the wider benefits of reduced speeds.

A Wolverhampton primary school plans a watch party for pupils to view a replay of England’s World Cup match against Mexico during school hours, asking children who watch live not to reveal the result. Teachers will also try to avoid spoilers ahead of the collective viewing. The school has been running World Cup-themed activities and aims to create a memorable experience for its 700 pupils.

Police arrested three people after a man in his 20s was found fatally stabbed in a car park on Clarence Street in Wolverhampton. A 32‑year‑old man was detained on suspicion of murder, while a 66‑year‑old man and a 59‑year‑old woman were held on suspicion of assisting an offender. Forensic work, door‑to‑door inquiries and CCTV reviews are ongoing, with neighbourhood patrols increased to reassure residents. Authorities urged anyone with information to contact them quoting log 594 of 5 July.

A digital map has been launched in Shropshire to collect public memories of Queen Elizabeth II, highlighting locations linked to her visits and preserving personal recollections for future generations. The Queen Elizabeth Memorial Committee is inviting contributions reflecting both direct encounters and broader sentiments. The project features several historic visits across the county, including trips to Telford, Shrewsbury and local schools, and aims to expand the archive as residents share their experiences.

Several Hereford pubs plan to open for England’s 01:00 BST World Cup match against Mexico after the UK government relaxed licensing rules, allowing venues in England and Wales to remain open until 05:00. Eight pubs in Herefordshire had applied for Temporary Event Notices, which were later refunded. Some pubs expect strong turnout while others have chosen to stay closed due to noise concerns. Wetherspoons will open only five of its 800 venues, while various West Midlands pubs cite consideration for residents in deciding to remain closed.

A falling tree branch at King Edward VI Camp Hill School for Boys in Birmingham injured three pupils, one seriously. Emergency crews responded quickly, providing trauma care before transporting the boys to hospital. The school and its academy trust launched an investigation and offered support to pupils who witnessed the incident, emphasising safety and wellbeing.

A Wolverhampton man received a two‑year suspended sentence after admitting to fraudulently claiming £30,000 through Covid Bounce Back Loans by overstating business turnover and applying twice despite being eligible for only one loan. The Insolvency Service found that none of the money was used for legitimate business purposes and was instead transferred out immediately, later forming part of a £90,000 payment to a third party. The court imposed a 10‑year director disqualification, unpaid work, and rehabilitation requirements as authorities seek to recover the funds.