David Dixon

The roadside giraffe sculpture Julian in Crowlas, Cornwall, was seriously damaged after two members of a local sports club tried to take it following a night of drinking. The men confessed to creator Valerie Boakes and agreed to reimburse her for rebuilding the popular landmark. Boakes, who was initially angry and upset, accepted their apology and said she hoped they had learned their lesson.

Revenue Jersey plans community helpdesk sessions in August and September 2026 at parish halls in St John, St Martin and St Clement. The events will provide face-to-face assistance with Jersey tax matters, including independent taxation, joint filing and Prior Year Basis payment options, allowing rural residents to seek help without travelling to St Helier. Islanders discussing personal affairs must bring valid photo identification.

Hannah Le Morvan has won the 2026 Nigel Quérée Environment Award from Société Jersiaise for research examining how different bat species in Jersey use habitats throughout the year. Using listening devices across multiple sites, she tracked seasonal acoustic activity, producing data intended to improve understanding of the island’s bats and help conservationists target protection efforts more effectively.

Heatwaves and drought are putting financial and operational pressure on zoos in Devon and Cornwall. Dartmoor Zoo reported a 12% fall in visitor numbers in June, a temporary reduction to 50% capacity after a borehole ran dry, and a shortage of grass and potential hay supplies. Paradise Park Wildlife Sanctuary said algal blooms require weekly cleaning of otter and penguin ponds, creating significant costs, while its tropical birds generally enjoy the heat but need additional humidity. The Environment Agency has declared a drought across more than half of England, with over 20 million people subject to hosepipe bans.

Students at Penair School in Truro used generative AI to create films based on World War One diaries from Cornish soldiers and civilians, including the detailed writings of miner John French. The project, supported by historian Tony Smith, won the Malcolm Doolin Prize for Local History, with participants and relatives describing the AI‑generated films as moving and impactful. Teachers highlighted the value of connecting students with local history, while pupils noted both the creative possibilities and challenges of working with AI.

Sarah Wood of Reform UK was elected leader of Kirklees Council after months of stalemate, winning a secret ballot by 36 votes to 30. The council had been without leadership since May due to failed votes and political disagreements. Wood emphasised collaboration and Reform principles as priorities, while Green group leader Andrew Cooper, who lost the vote, welcomed the end of the impasse but criticised the lack of detailed plans from Reform.