Dan Stacey

Students across the Black Country celebrated strong GCSE results, with several schools reporting their best-ever or historic outcomes. Standout achievements included multiple grade 9s at St Peter’s Collegiate Academy, Summerhill, Cheslyn Hay, Colton Hills, St Edmund’s and Kingswinford Academy. School leaders praised pupils’ resilience, determination and support from teachers and families, while students outlined plans to continue into sixth form, college, university, apprenticeships and careers.

Mohammed Khan, Junaid Shabir and Haider Shabir pleaded guilty to conspiring to possess a firearm with intent to cause fear of violence in connection with shots fired at a property on Talke Road, Walsall, in March 2024. No one was injured. The men initially denied the charge but changed their pleas on the first day of their trial at Wolverhampton Crown Court, and they will be sentenced later this year.

A shisha and vape shop on Erdington High Street was closed on August 11, 2026, after West Midlands Police and Trading Standards gathered evidence that illegal vapes were being sold there. Birmingham Magistrates’ Court issued a Closure Order under the Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014, allowing the premises to be shut for up to three months. The action formed part of Operations Fearless and Cloud, with Birmingham City Council and Public Health involved. Authorities cited concerns that illegal vapes may contain excessive nicotine and hazardous chemicals or metals. Local councillors Robert Alden and Gareth Moore welcomed the closure and called for continued enforcement against illegal trading and other criminal activity in Erdington.

An inquest heard that 45-year-old Neil Thompson died from aspiration of blood caused by traumatic facial injuries and a traumatic head injury after being found at Smestow Academy in Wolverhampton on January 19, 2026. CCTV traced him travelling by electric bike along a canal towpath after visiting a friend, but no footage captured the incident that caused his injuries. A pathologist said the injuries were consistent with blunt-force trauma, possibly from a heavy fall, although an assault could not be ruled out. Police believed he may have been thrown from his bike on the uneven towpath, but could not explain how he reached the school field or definitively exclude another person's involvement. Coroner Joanne Lees recorded a narrative conclusion that the circumstances of the injuries remained unknown.

Cow & Sow, the steakhouse brand with a Birmingham restaurant and a Bristol operation, plans to open The Field Farmshop & Kitchen at the former Dew Drop Inn in Flax Bourton in autumn 2026. The nearly one-acre site will include a 70-seat restaurant and café, a farm shop selling local and home-grown produce, outdoor seating, and selected evening openings. Later plans include meeting and event spaces, a test kitchen and cookery school offering masterclasses and outdoor fire-cooking courses. Founder Mark Warburton and his wife Amy are leading the redevelopment as part of the company’s broader expansion beyond its steakhouse operations.

Students across the West Midlands and Staffordshire celebrated strong A-level, vocational and post-16 results, with many securing university places, higher apprenticeships or further training. King Edward VI College in Stourbridge recorded a 99.5 per cent pass rate across 3,581 entries, while Sandwell College Group described its performance as its best ever. Newcastle and Stafford Colleges Group reported a 99.2 per cent A-level pass rate alongside 99 per cent pass rates for T Levels and BTECs. Schools and colleges also highlighted exceptional individual achievements, including multiple A* grades, Cambridge and Oxford offers, and progression into medicine, law, engineering and teaching. Education leaders welcomed plans to give technical qualifications greater parity with academic routes.

A 17-year-old boy was taken to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries after being stabbed on grass beside Ladywood Middleway in Birmingham shortly after 7.10pm on August 12. A second 17-year-old boy was arrested on suspicion of violent disorder. Police are increasing their presence in the area and asking witnesses, motorists, and anyone with mobile-phone or dashcam footage to provide information.

West Midlands Police are continuing to investigate reports that shots were fired during a celebratory gathering in the Low Hill area of Wolverhampton. Officers are examining available evidence, but the force has released no further details and is appealing for information.

West Midlands Police are appealing for help identifying two men who may assist an investigation into a car stolen from Dudley High Street between 7pm and 8pm on June 26. Following CCTV enquiries, officers released images and asked anyone with information to contact police via 101 or the force’s online Live Chat, quoting crime number 20/301468/26.

Ben Newman, known online as Spudman, will bring his loaded jacket potato van to Rugeley Market Square on August 22 after the original July 25 event was postponed. The visit, won by Rugeley in a public vote, is being staged with London Northwestern Railway to celebrate new Class 730 trains on the Trent Valley route. Visitors can meet Spudman, enter for limited free potatoes and win prizes.

The A518 between the Doxey turning and the Ranton turn-off near Stafford is blocked by an obstruction, causing very slow traffic and significant delays. The incident was first recorded at about 6:56 a.m. on August 12, with an update issued at 8:34 a.m. Drivers are advised to allow extra time or use alternative routes while the obstruction is cleared.

Emergency gas repairs are taking place on Highbridge Road in Netherton after a gas escape, prompting a road closure outside Netherton Church of England Primary School. Cadent Gas expects the work to finish by August 17, 2026, while residents, motorists and pedestrians are advised to allow extra travel time and take care near school access points.

Two 17-year-olds were arrested after a large crowd reportedly caused disorder in Birmingham city centre. One was detained on suspicion of failing to disperse and a racially aggravated public order offence, while the other was arrested on suspicion of assaulting a police officer. One person was treated in hospital after an assault, with non-life-threatening injuries. Police imposed a dispersal order and said no stabbing occurred, despite social-media rumours.

A man in his 30s was airlifted to hospital with life-threatening injuries after being stabbed on Lozells Road in Birmingham. West Midlands Police arrested a 31-year-old man nearby on suspicion of attempted murder. Officers are investigating and appealing for witnesses, mobile-phone footage and dashcam recordings, while increasing patrols to reassure local residents.

West Midlands Police are seeking to identify three men allegedly involved in a robbery at a service station on Kidderminster Road in Kingswinford on July 22. A man was reportedly punched in the head, and fuel was taken without payment. Police have released images and asked anyone with information to contact them or Crimestoppers.

A partial solar eclipse will be visible across the UK on Wednesday, August 12, with West Midlands residents expected to see it begin around 6:15pm, peak at approximately 7:11pm and end around 8:04pm. More than 90% of the Sun could be obscured at maximum eclipse, although visibility will depend on location and weather. Viewers are warned never to look directly at the Sun or use ordinary sunglasses, cameras, binoculars or telescopes without certified solar viewing glasses or specialist filters. The event coincides with the Perseid meteor shower.

Matthew Marsh, 33, was sentenced to 36 weeks in prison after committing 48 shop thefts across Sandwell, including offences in Rowley Regis, and was also convicted of assaulting a police constable and breaching a community order. His offending ended on August 3 when he was arrested in Blackheath after stealing a bag of food. The court also imposed a three-year criminal behaviour order, while West Midlands Police said the thefts had burdened local businesses and staff.

VolksMagic is restoring a rare Volkswagen 1303 S Beetle that was initially expected to be dismantled for parts after being donated by Jan Clay, whose late husband Joe had owned it. The discovery of the car’s rarity led the team to restore it from orange to its original gold specification, despite a nine-and-a-half-week deadline and the need to carry out metalwork, bodywork and preparation simultaneously. The completed car is due to appear at V-Dubs in the Valley in Bridgnorth in September, where it will be auctioned to raise money for Santa’s A Gangsta.

A 24-photo gallery captures the music, performances, colourful atmosphere and crowds at WV1Fest 2026 in West Park, Wolverhampton, including tribute acts, fairground attractions and festivalgoers enjoying the weekend.

Eight fire crews responded to a large grassland fire near Canterbury Road and Millfields Pool in West Bromwich. Dry grassland was extensively blackened, the road was partly cordoned off, and police and ambulance personnel attended. Residents were advised to keep doors and windows closed, avoid the area and wet garden fences bordering the field after reports that the fire had spread toward gardens. A local resident raised concerns about repeated fires and damage to wildlife, suggesting the blazes may have been deliberately started.

Five people were arrested following disorder in the away end during Wolves’ EFL Cup match against Port Vale at Molineux on August 7. Four people aged 17 to 45 were arrested on suspicion of affray, while a 17-year-old boy was arrested over an allegedly inappropriate gesture towards a female spectator. All five were bailed under strict conditions as West Midlands Police continue investigating and appeal for witnesses.

Hednesford Hills has suffered several wildfires during the summer, including a blaze on August 9 that Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service quickly extinguished. Michelle Lees of Chase Dog Services said she had reported four fires in the area over the previous month and helped tackle one herself, while praising crews from Lichfield Fire Service and others for protecting the nature reserve.

West Midlands Police seized 4,975 cannabis plants from a 25-room industrial unit on Lichfield Road in Aston, Birmingham, following a power cut investigated by National Grid staff. The operation, estimated to have a street value of nearly £5 million, involved illegally diverted electricity for lighting, fans and filtration systems, creating a significant fire risk. Two men aged 20 and 43 were arrested on suspicion of cultivating cannabis and later released on bail while investigations continue.

A 17-year-old boy has been charged with possessing a knife after reports of a person carrying a knife and a gun being fired on Old Walsall Road in Perry Barr, Birmingham, on August 2. No one was injured. West Midlands Police are continuing to investigate and seek information about two men who allegedly fled on a motorcycle with its registration plate removed. The teenager is due to appear at Birmingham Youth Court on September 8.

Former Wolverhampton Wanderers goalkeeper Phil Parkes has died aged 79. Known as “Lofty,” Parkes spent 18 years with Wolves, made 382 appearances and still holds the club record for 127 consecutive league matches. He played a key role in Wolves’ run to the 1972 UEFA Cup final and their 1974 League Cup campaign, later continuing his career in North America. Wolves and the Wolves Former Players’ Association paid tribute to his goalkeeping achievements, personality and close connection with supporters.

A man in his 40s was found dead at an address on South Road in Smethwick after police were called shortly before 3:15pm on August 6. A 60-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of murder and remained in custody. West Midlands Police established a cordon, conducted house-to-house enquiries and examined CCTV and other footage, while the victim’s family was informed. Residents identified the victim locally as “Cecil,” but police had not formally named him or confirmed the cause of death. A separate resident’s concerns about rough sleeping, HMOs and local living conditions were not linked by police to the investigation.

More than 12 West Midlands Fire Service crews responded to a large grassland fire on St Christopher Drive in Wednesbury. Residents and motorists were urged to avoid the area to allow emergency access. No injuries had been immediately reported, and the cause of the fire remained unconfirmed.

A lineside fire disrupted rail services between Walsall and Perry Barr, causing delays and alterations to West Midlands Railway trains. Passengers can use National Express West Midlands buses between Birmingham New Street and Walsall, with tickets being accepted, and are advised to allow extra travel time and check for updates. The expected duration of the disruption had not been confirmed.

Three University of Wolverhampton graduates won Commonwealth Games judo medals for England in Glasgow: Acelya Toprak and Kelly Petersen-Pollard claimed gold, while Katie-Jemima Yeats-Brown won bronze. Current student Shelley Ludford finished fifth in the under-78kg event. The university praised the athletes’ performances and highlighted its support for students balancing elite competition with academic study.

Geocare Services Limited, a Wolverhampton domiciliary care provider supporting 59 people with disabilities and dementia, has been placed into special measures after a CQC inspection found continued breaches involving safe care, consent, medicines, care planning, complaints and leadership. The service was rated inadequate for effectiveness, safety and leadership, while caring and responsiveness required improvement. Inspectors cited unreliable visits, missing mental-capacity assessments, incomplete care guidance, medication errors and weak systems for learning from mistakes, although many service users praised frontline staff. The CQC will closely monitor the agency and may take further enforcement action if improvements are not made.

A fire at a row of eight terraced houses in Bridge Field Walk, Rowley Regis, spread across neighbouring properties, causing significant damage to multiple floors and the roof space and displacing residents. Around 40 West Midlands firefighters attended, with up to 25 using breathing apparatus to extinguish the blaze. Police cordoned off the area, while gas and electricity supplies were isolated. Two people were treated at the scene for a medical condition and smoke inhalation, and investigators were working to determine the cause.

Police are investigating after shots were fired in the Poplar Green area of Dudley at about 1:50 p.m. on August 1. No injuries have been reported and no arrests have been made. Officers are seeking witnesses and CCTV, mobile-phone or dashcam footage, with information accepted through police channels or anonymously via Crimestoppers.

Craig Smith, 35, has been charged with robbery after a woman was allegedly approached and had jewellery stolen while walking with a child in Wolverhampton’s East Park area on July 29. West Midlands Police arrested him at an address in Bilston on August 1. He was remanded in custody and due to appear before Wolverhampton Magistrates’ Court.

The Leper Well at Gunstone, between Codsall and Brewood in South Staffordshire, is a sulphurous, brick-lined historic pool associated with medieval treatments for leprosy and other skin conditions. Local tradition links visits to a blessing at St Nicholas' Church, though the ritual and the existence of a nearby medieval leper hospital remain unproven. First documented by naturalist Robert Plot in 1686, the structure is thought to date largely from the 18th century. Volunteers, working with Historic England, South Staffordshire Council and other local groups, cleared its overgrowth in 2024 and 2025 and installed an information plaque, restoring visibility to the Scheduled Monument and Grade II listed landmark.

West Midlands Police inspector Roy Teague has interviewed more than 250 serving and retired officers who report UFO sightings or other unexplained experiences. He says he investigates each account skeptically by checking radar, weather and astronomical data, rejecting stories that lack evidence or verifiable witnesses. Teague argues that police training in observation and truthful reporting gives officers’ testimony particular credibility, while emphasizing that his book does not ask readers to accept every claim as genuine.

Willenhall runner Edward Molineaux, 36, completed 140 ultramarathons over 365 days, covering more than 6,000 miles in races ranging from 50 kilometres to 108 miles. His challenge included 10 100-mile races, multiple back-to-back ultramarathons and a continuous 108-mile run over New Year. The self-supported achievement follows his record of completing 465 consecutive half-marathons in a year. Weeks after finishing, Molineaux was hit by a car during a training run and sidelined, but he is recovering through rehabilitation with the aim of eventually returning to ultra-endurance running.

Families in the West Midlands and across England can access reduced rail fares during the summer holidays under the Government’s Great British Summer Savings campaign. Offers include £1 child fares on Southeastern, £2 promotions from c2c and Govia Thameslink Railway, selected discounts from Greater Anglia, family tickets from LNER and Northern, and Birmingham-to-London deals from West Midlands Trains. The programme also includes attraction discounts, free children’s bus travel in August and a £2 cap on single bus fares in England from January, alongside a freeze on regulated rail fares until next March.

West Midlands Police seized more than 100 fully grown cannabis plants, two air rifles and 3D-printed knuckle dusters during a drugs warrant search at a property on Tetnall Street in Dudley on July 21. A 50-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of cultivating cannabis and released on bail while enquiries continue.

A commercial waste collection sign on Newton Road in Great Barr overlooks bedding, clothing and bags arranged like a makeshift rough sleeping site. The striking contrast has drawn residents’ attention, although it is unclear whether anyone is currently sleeping there or whether the belongings were left temporarily.

West Mercia Police and Crime Commissioner John Campion welcomed the Prime Minister's decision to pause an early prisoner-release scheme that would have made thousands of offenders in England and Wales eligible for earlier release. He said the policy risked harming victims, weakening public confidence and increasing pressure on policing. Campion called for an urgent wider review of sentencing laws, release eligibility, automatic release arrangements and electronic-monitoring safeguards, with public protection as the central priority.

West Midlands Police are appealing for help identifying two people who may have information about the death of 40-year-old Daniel Lewis, also known as Danny, in Handsworth on February 2. Lewis was found suffering a cardiac arrest in a supermarket car park after an alleged disorder near Soho Road and Holyhead Road and died two days later. A 34-year-old man remains on police bail and a 35-year-old man is under investigation, while the two people shown in released CCTV images are being treated as potential witnesses and are not believed to be connected to the death.

British Transport Police are appealing for information to identify a roughly 10-year-old Black boy seen at Sutton Coldfield railway station around 10pm on July 17, after a witness raised welfare concerns the following day. Detectives also want to speak with a white man and woman seen with him. Information can be provided to police or anonymously through Crimestoppers.

West Midlands Police found a cannabis farm and a firearm during a search of a property on Richmond Avenue in Birmingham. Jetmir Hoxha, 20, and Zenel Domi, 21, were arrested and charged with cannabis cultivation, firearm and ammunition possession, and abstracting electricity without authority. Both were remanded in custody to appear before Birmingham Magistrates Court.

Police recovered firearms, ammunition, hand grenades and other weapons from a Cradley Heath property, leading to multiple weapons charges against 59-year-old Carl Andrews. He has been remanded in custody and is due to appear before Wolverhampton Magistrates Court, while officers continue searching the scene and report no wider community threat.

A Manchester man, Dean Romain, received an 11‑month jail term and a driving ban after performing a U-turn on the M6 near Stafford while disqualified and uninsured. Police tracked and arrested him shortly after the incident, and the vehicle was recovered. Staffordshire Police described his behaviour as dangerous and emphasised their commitment to road safety.

Police in Walsall arrested three men during a Guardian Taskforce operation targeting knife crime and drug offences. Officers conducted multiple stop-and-searches in the town centre and later detained the occupants of a vehicle who attempted to flee in Caldmore, recovering cannabis and a knife. The suspects, aged 31, 30 and 27, were taken into custody on suspicion of possessing a bladed article, driving offences and possession of Class B drugs. Taskforce leadership emphasised the value of such operations for removing weapons from the streets.

A 20-year-old man from Kidderminster, Clayton Dixon, received a six‑month driving ban after being convicted of dangerous off-road motorbike riding and driving without insurance. Magistrates imposed six penalty points, bringing his total to 15 following a previous conviction. The offences stemmed from an August 2025 incident in which he rode a pit bike dangerously, narrowly avoided a collision and fled from police. No injuries occurred. Police later identified and charged him, and officers said the case reflects efforts to address concerns about nuisance off‑road biking in the town.

A male cyclist was seriously injured in a collision with a car on Crescent Road in Willenhall and was airlifted to Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham after receiving advanced trauma treatment at the scene. Emergency services including two ambulances, a paramedic officer and the Midlands Air Ambulance responded. West Midlands Police confirmed the car driver stopped and is cooperating with the investigation, and appealed for witnesses to come forward.

A Walsall man, Ron Jukes, celebrates his 100th birthday surrounded by four generations of family and strong community support. His long marriage to his late wife Ada and their large family are highlighted as central to his life. Local schools contributed more than 300 handmade cards, adding to family gatherings and events at his assisted living home to commemorate his milestone.

A redesigned six-bedroom home on Woodthorne Road South in Tettenhall has been listed for offers over £1 million, featuring a home cinema, expansive open-plan kitchen with premium appliances, multiple en-suite bedrooms, and extensive landscaped gardens including a summer house and children’s play area. Located near local amenities, golf clubs and equestrian facilities, the property offers modern luxury combined with traditional character in a highly sought-after Wolverhampton neighbourhood.

Residents in Wolverhampton expressed mixed feelings about newly appointed Prime Minister Andy Burnham, balancing scepticism toward politicians with cautious optimism about potential improvements for the West Midlands. While many doubt whether any government can deliver meaningful change, some believe Burnham’s local-government background may offer a different approach. Most people were familiar with him and are prepared to give him a chance, emphasising the need for tangible action over promises.

A Staffordshire couple’s football-themed garden pub, Hibbys, has been named one of three finalists for Britain’s Pub Shed of the Year 2026. Tina and Rich Hibbs’ Wolves-decorated bar faces competition from entries in Portsmouth and Wakefield, with the winner set to receive £500 in prizes. The competition, run by Two Fat Blokes Bar Sign Emporium, highlights the growing popularity of garden pubs across Britain. Public voting is open, and the winner will be announced on Ngageradio.co.uk next month.

Wolverhampton Olympic exited the Gothia Cup in the round of 32 after a tired performance against Danmarks IF, despite a well‑taken goal from Bayley Bloomfield. The diary recounts the team’s challenges, lighter moments around Gothenburg, and the strong efforts of the players and coaches throughout the tournament. A final tribute highlights each player's contributions and the support of families and staff during the trip.

A reporter attends a sound bath session in Stourbridge led by holistic therapist Jo Gallagher, initially struggling to relax before unexpectedly drifting into a light sleep and losing track of time. Gallagher explains the growing popularity of her sessions and their appeal to people seeking relief from stress, with plans to expand into historic venues across the West Midlands. The experience leaves the reporter feeling rested and open to recommending sound baths, even if unlikely to attend regularly.

Residents of the Goodrich Mews estate in Upper Gornal remain uncertain over responsibility for a deteriorating retaining wall as they continue to face £6,000 repair charges despite political attention from MP Sonia Kumar. Homeowners argue the structure should not be their financial burden, particularly given previous failures and remedial work. With the wall showing worsening deterioration and no progress in resolving the dispute involving the management company and other parties, residents express growing frustration and safety concerns.

Torbjorn Heggem’s father credits West Bromwich Albion with launching the defender’s rapid rise from Swedish football to Norway’s World Cup quarter-final against England. He reflects on the family’s positive experiences in the Black Country, including strong fan support and trying local orange chips before Heggem’s move to Bologna. Looking ahead to the match, he predicts a 2–1 win for Norway and expects his son to focus on containing Harry Kane.

A garden fire in Streetly spread to neighbouring properties, damaging fences, sheds and greenhouses before firefighters from multiple West Midlands stations brought it under control. Crews used breathing apparatus, hose reels, main jets and a drone to extinguish hot spots and remained on scene until early morning. The blaze was traced to an outdoor heating fire basket, prompting the fire service to warn residents to fully extinguish such appliances during hot, dry weather to prevent reignition and rapid fire spread.

Fire crews from Aston, Sutton Coldfield and Erdington quickly contained a fast‑moving 2,000sqm grass fire at Perry Common Meadows after multiple emergency calls. Dry conditions contributed to the blaze’s rapid spread, but firefighters extinguished it using off‑road response equipment, jets and a hose reel, then checked for hotspots. The incident prompted renewed warnings about heightened grass‑fire risks during prolonged dry weather.

Four fire crews responded to a blaze on Coppice View Way in Streetly, with emergency services working to bring the situation under control. The cause of the fire has not yet been identified, and residents and motorists are advised to avoid the area to ensure safety and minimise disruption while crews remain on scene.

Two shops in Cradley Heath were ordered to close for three months after Sandwell Council’s Trading Standards team and West Midlands Police found evidence of illegal tobacco sales. Both premises had illicit products seized and previous test purchases revealed underage sale failures. A licence review was triggered for G & G Market. The closures aim to curb suspected criminal activity and protect legitimate local businesses. Sandwell Council supports government proposals to extend maximum closure orders from three to twelve months. Councillor Bob Jones said the measures demonstrate a strengthened enforcement approach, with further updates expected as legal proceedings conclude.

Police seized an uninsured e-bike in Burntwood after reports it was being ridden anti‑socially. Local police emphasised ongoing efforts to address misuse of e‑bikes and e‑scooters, encouraging residents to report concerns. The article outlines current UK rules for Electrically Assisted Pedal Cycles and privately owned e‑scooters, highlighting legal requirements and penalties for non‑compliance.

A group of pupils from Bilston Church of England Primary School visited Derby Arena’s velodrome for coached cycling sessions, continuing an annual tradition that promotes cycling within the school. Staff and supporters emphasised the experience’s value in building confidence and encouraging active lifestyles, while campaigners renewed calls for an indoor velodrome in the Black Country to expand access to youth cycling opportunities.

Fire crews rescued a pony that fell into a canal in Tipton, using specialist equipment to lift it safely from the water and return it to its owner. Emergency services urged the public to avoid the area during the operation, and West Midlands Fire Service thanked residents for their cooperation.

A jury at Birmingham Crown Court convicted Abdou Sillah of murdering his housemate, Kiirpal Nhian, who was fatally stabbed at their Small Heath home. CCTV footage showed Sillah fleeing the scene, and he was arrested days later carrying a knife and wearing clothing matching the footage. Police investigations linked him to the attack, leading to charges of murder and possession of a bladed article. He will be sentenced on September 28, with police expressing hope that the verdict brings some comfort to the victim’s loved ones.

A wild beaver kit has been recorded in Staffordshire, marking the county’s first confirmed wild beaver birth in more than four centuries. Staffordshire Wildlife Trust kept the discovery confidential until the young animal was safely observed above ground, noting its vulnerability to predators. The beavers are believed to have originated from illegal releases, but the healthy kit indicates the habitat is suitable for the species’ return. Only one kit has been spotted so far. The finding coincides with wider conservation initiatives, including a fenced enclosure planned at Craddocks Moss and future licensed wild reintroductions that could see up to 50 beavers reintroduced across Staffordshire. The species is expected to aid habitat restoration and water management as part of long-term ecological recovery efforts.

A new health‑focused drinks shop, Olive & Juice, is launching in Wolverhampton, offering a community‑oriented space promoting nutritious drinks and wellbeing. Founded by Shreen Mahmood, the business will hold a ceremony on July 11 before officially opening on July 18, with images showing the prepared location ahead of its debut.

Tram services between Wolverhampton and Priestfield were suspended after a tram struck an object on Bilston Road, leaving services running only between Priestfield and Edgbaston Village. West Midlands Metro reported the issue mid‑morning and advised passengers to use National Express West Midlands service 79 buses, which are accepting Metro tickets. The operator apologised and urged travellers to check for updates.

Aerial footage shows construction progressing on a new Lidl store at the former F A Gills abattoir site in Wolverhampton, where demolition has been completed and building work is well underway. The project will provide more than 2,000 square metres of retail space, over 100 parking spaces, electric vehicle charging points and around 40 jobs, and forms part of a wider regeneration scheme that also includes new housing.

An Ofsted inspection found that Minee Monkeys Nursery in Oldbury failed to meet safeguarding requirements, citing inadequate supervision during mealtimes that placed children at risk of choking, unsafe food preparation practices and unsuitable resources for young children. Inspectors also reported insufficient staffing in the baby room, affecting children’s emotional and care needs. The nursery expressed disappointment with the findings, stating the inspection reflected only a brief snapshot and emphasizing its long-standing commitment to children’s safety and wellbeing. It said encouraging independence is part of early years education and that staff supervise children appropriately. Managers pledged to address concerns and reassure families following the April 2026 inspection.

Staffordshire plans a £28.6 million investment to expand specialist education through a new all-age special school in Rugeley and a primary pupil referral unit in Stafford, funded by the High Needs Provision Capital Allocation grant. The special school would serve pupils with social, emotional, mental health needs and autism, offering around 180 places by 2029. The referral unit would provide short-term support for up to 16 primary pupils. A public consultation is underway until 17 July, with the proposals set for cabinet consideration on 15 July.

Sixteen pubs across the West Midlands have confirmed they will screen England’s 1am World Cup knockout match against Mexico, with venues from Birmingham to Cannock preparing for late-night crowds and extended opening hours. Several pubs, including The British Oak and Hogs Head, are promoting ticketed entry or encouraging early arrival, while fan interest is also growing for the Himley Fan Zone alternative. With England close to reaching the quarter-finals, more venues are expected to announce screenings as demand builds across the region.

A Sandwell councillor described attempting to save a 19-year-old victim of a daylight stabbing in Oldbury, recounting how he tried to stop the bleeding and stayed with the teenager until paramedics arrived. He warned of escalating youth violence, calling for stronger action on knife crime and greater support for young people while urging them to avoid carrying weapons. Police continue to investigate and are appealing for witnesses.

Police are investigating criminal damage to a property on Tiled House Lane in Pensnett after reports late at night. No injuries were reported, and officers have increased patrols to reassure residents while enquiries continue. The public is encouraged to provide information to West Midlands Police quoting the relevant incident number.

Police responded with four vehicles to an incident at The Mermaid pub in Wolverhampton, where a man was taken away in a police van. The reason for the response is not yet known, and authorities have been asked for comment.

Bilston Town FC unveiled their 2026–27 retained squad through a cinematic video inspired by The Verve’s Bitter Sweet Symphony, featuring manager Dave King walking through Bilston as players join him one by one. The production highlights the club’s strong community ties and showcases local landmarks, earning praise from supporters. The retained squad includes Tom Hurdman, Luke Carter, Ben Priest and eight other players who committed their futures to the club.

A 19-year-old man suffered life-threatening injuries after a stabbing on Church Street in Oldbury, prompting a major emergency response and police cordon that disrupted nearby businesses and alarmed residents. Local shop and pub staff reported reduced footfall due to the closure of entrances, while witnesses expressed shock that such violence occurred in broad daylight. Emergency crews provided advanced trauma care before transporting the victim to hospital, and police appealed for information, CCTV or dashcam footage as investigations continue.

A 19-year-old man was taken to hospital with life-threatening injuries after being stabbed during an altercation involving teenagers on Market Street in Oldbury. West Midlands Police launched an investigation, with officers remaining at the scene and speaking to witnesses. Authorities urged residents to approach patrolling officers with concerns and encouraged anyone with information to contact police or Crimestoppers anonymously.

Bilston Carnival will return for the first time since 2008 as part of the Pride in Place Regeneration Programme, featuring a 1960s-themed parade, live performances, children’s activities and community events at Hickman Park. Wolverhampton Council leader Stephen Simkins highlighted the event as a milestone following the opening of the new market and part of broader plans to improve local facilities. The carnival is supported by local sponsors and will include free family activities, entertainment and accessible transport options.

A major highways upgrade at Burnt Tree Junction in Dudley is causing months of disruption as phased construction continues until around July 31. The project aims to improve bus reliability, enhance safety for pedestrians and cyclists, and boost junction capacity as part of wider transport investment across the area. Extensive diversions are in place for different types of traffic, including heavy goods vehicles, while several bus services have been rerouted, altered or split. Pedestrian and cycling routes remain open with temporary signage. Officials advise travellers to allow additional time, avoid the junction when possible and follow updated travel information, stating the completed scheme will provide faster bus journeys and safer crossings.

A week‑long Summer STEM Camp at the RAF Museum Midlands will offer children aged 11 to 13 hands‑on activities in robotics, coding, AI, cybersecurity and aviation. Run in partnership with Tablet Academy, the programme includes LEGO engineering challenges, digital design with Adobe Express, VR experiences, Minecraft flight tasks and an end‑of‑week engineering project. Held at RAF Cosford on two dates with limited spaces, the camp aims to build STEM skills, confidence and teamwork, with a fee of £140 covering materials and certificates.

A resident reports more than 20 incidents of household rubbish being left beside a litter bin on Teddesley Street in Walsall and criticises the lack of enforcement action despite providing video evidence. Walsall Housing Group reportedly removed the waste but took no further steps, while the Community Protection team classified the rubbish as side waste rather than fly‑tipping and cited difficulties enforcing without a witness. The resident disputes this distinction and requests CCTV installation, which officials say is unlikely.

A sinkhole on High Street in Brownhills remains cordoned off as engineers and Severn Trent Water continue investigations into its cause. Traffic diversions and temporary management measures are in place, affecting motorists, businesses and bus services. Walsall Council urges drivers to follow diversion routes while ground assessments continue and required repairs are determined.