Ellie Gosley

Bonnie Tyler's funeral will take place on Monday, August 17, with a celebration of life service at Swansea Minster available via livestream. Viewers must create an account in advance and obtain a free digital ticket; no payment will be requested. Mourners are also expected to line the streets as Tyler's coffin travels through Mumbles on August 15 and later through Skewen. Donations made during the stream will support Noah's Ark Children's Hospital and Cerebral Palsy Cymru.

A fast-moving fire in Pantside, near Newbridge, destroyed five homes and damaged several others after flames spread from a field on August 12. Residents used hosepipes, buckets and wooden planks to protect nearby properties before fire crews arrived, while 32 properties were evacuated and no injuries were reported. Gwent Police and South Wales Fire and Rescue Service are investigating the suspected deliberate ignition, and a 29-year-old woman from Newbridge has been arrested on suspicion of arson with recklessness as to whether life was endangered. Caerphilly County Borough Council is providing temporary accommodation and assessing support needs, while local clubs, community groups and donations are helping affected families.

An inquest heard that 47-year-old Barrie John Richards was found unresponsive at a friend's flat in Trealaw on July 26 and was pronounced dead by paramedics. Drug paraphernalia was reportedly found at the property, while a post-mortem examination did not establish a cause of death pending toxicology results. Coroner Patricia Morgan opened a full inquest because she suspected the death may have been unnatural and adjourned proceedings for further investigation.

A fire on August 6 gutted the former Ysgol Y Graig primary school in Cefn Coed, Merthyr Tydfil, causing major structural collapse. More than 10 fire crews attended, while South Wales Police investigates the cause. South Wales Fire and Rescue Service and the local council later reinspected the site, which has been returned to its owner.

Leanne Borley, 41, from Trowbridge in Cardiff, died after her vehicle collided with a queued car and two other vehicles while exiting the eastbound A48 at Llanedeyrn. An inquest opening at Pontypridd Coroner's Court heard that she was pronounced dead at the scene, while no provisional cause of death has yet been established. South Wales Police are investigating and have appealed for witnesses and dashcam footage.

Gregynog estate near Caersws in Powys has suffered repeated vandalism, including smashed windows, damaged signs, wrecked public toilets and fires in its woodlands. The Gregynog Trust, which runs the charitable estate, warned that the damage threatens nationally important wildlife and diverts resources from conservation work. The trust said suspected deliberate damage would be reported to police and urged visitors to respect the historic site and report suspicious behaviour.

Rhondda Cynon Taf Council issued ice cream seller Mark Edwards a warning after confirming that his van had played loud chimes after the legal 7pm cutoff. The complaint upset local residents, who described Edwards as a valued community figure and launched a petition in his support. Edwards initially said he would stop visiting the estate where the complaint originated, but later agreed to continue serving residents without using the chimes. The council said it had a legal duty to investigate and enforce noise complaints under the Control of Pollution Act 1974.

Vape Zone, a shop on High Street in Ferndale that appeared to market itself as a sweet shop, was closed after a sustained Trading Standards investigation found illegal cigarette sales and concealed tobacco products. Ten test purchases resulted in illegal cigarettes being supplied, while the council also received complaints alleging sales of vapes and other age-restricted products to children. A closure order was granted by Merthyr Tydfil Magistrates’ Court, and officers from Rhondda Cynon Taf Council and South Wales Police seized 189 cigarette packets and 40 pouches of rolling tobacco valued at more than £4,600. The council said the business had ignored repeated warnings and enforcement measures and stressed the health risks posed by unregulated tobacco and vaping products.

Gwent Police are investigating an alleged break-in and extensive damage to the nursery play area at Ton y Felin Chapel in Caerphilly. Three teenagers, two boys and a girl believed to be aged 13 to 15, were reportedly seen causing the damage on July 30. Police have appealed for CCTV, dashcam footage and other information from the area.

A 41-year-old woman from Trowbridge, Cardiff, died at the scene of a collision involving a van and a car on the eastbound A48 slip road at Llanedeyrn. The road was closed for about 12 hours while South Wales Police investigated. Officers are appealing for witnesses and anyone with relevant dashcam footage.

Gwent Police searched for 12-year-old Riley, who was reported missing after last being seen in the Pontnewydd area of Cwmbran on August 3. Police provided a physical description and urged anyone with information to contact them. An update states that Riley was found safe and well.

A Cardiff-based food truck operated by Event Mobile Catering Limited is being investigated as a possible source of a food poisoning outbreak at Oxfordshire’s Truck Festival. Festival organisers closed the Yorky Roast stall within 90 minutes after medical staff received reports of attendees suffering similar symptoms, and councils are working with the food business, UKHSA and other authorities to determine the cause. The Chartered Institute of Environmental Health issued guidance on hygiene, temperature control and handwashing, while stressing that there is no suggestion the festival failed to follow required procedures.

Christopher Phillips was sentenced to two years and four months in prison after admitting that he kept his mother Sylvia’s body in a chest freezer at their Porthcawl home for nearly three years. Neighbours had assumed the 89-year-old was agoraphobic and said Phillips was quiet and isolated. Police discovered the body in February after welfare concerns were raised, and the court heard Phillips had fraudulently received £78,190.92 in benefits following his mother’s death in March 2023.

Powys County Council planning officers continue to recommend conditional approval for a temporary 122.5-metre meteorological mast near Merthyr Cynog, between Sennybridge and Brecon, despite 57 objections. Residents and local councillor Colin Millichap have raised concerns about visual intrusion, construction disruption and harm to birds and other wildlife, particularly near Bannau Brycheiniog National Park. The mast would collect wind data for a potential future development by Bute Energy involving 22 turbines up to 220 metres high, although officials say that proposal must be disregarded when assessing the mast itself. The planning committee is due to reconsider the application on August 6, while any future wind farm application would be treated as a Development of National Significance and handled through Welsh Government planning processes.

A major incident has been declared after a wildfire at Llanwonno above the Rhondda burned roughly 150 hectares of forestry and common land over several days. About 20 fire engines, specialist wildfire teams, drones and partner agencies are working to contain the flames, which are expected to continue for several more days. Residents have been advised to avoid the area, remain indoors where possible and keep doors and windows closed because of smoke. No evacuations have been ordered, but a rest centre has opened at Rhondda Fach Leisure Centre for people who do not wish to stay at home.

Claire Aleks, a mother of four from Rhyl, died in hospital after taking her own life days after reporting an 11-month campaign of physical and psychological abuse by her partner, Kathryn White. The couple had met on Tinder, and the court heard that White isolated Aleks from her family and friends, monitored her communications, controlled her movements and subjected her to threats and violence. Liverpool Crown Court found White guilty of controlling and coercive behaviour and sentenced her to three years and six months in prison. The judge said White’s abuse had significantly contributed to Aleks’s death and condemned her lack of remorse or empathy.

Gwent Police appealed for information about Rory, an 11-year-old from Ebbw Vale who was last seen in the Pwllypant area of Caerphilly on July 29. The report described his appearance and clothing and provided police contact details and a reference number. An update confirmed that Rory had been found.

Wales Online profiles 56 people jailed in Wales during July for serious offences. The cases include life sentences for the murders of Shelley Davies and Harold Turner; lengthy terms for rape, child sexual abuse and exploitation; and prison sentences for domestic abuse, stalking, violent assaults, organised crime, drug dealing, fraud, dangerous driving, theft and contempt of court. Several cases involved vulnerable victims, while others exposed coordinated drug networks and online criminal activity such as swatting. The roundup highlights the continuing scale and variety of serious criminal offending dealt with by Welsh courts.

A fire broke out at Verdi's cafe on Mumbles seafront at about 2:00 a.m. on July 30, damaging the kitchen and toilet areas and forcing the popular Swansea cafe to close. Fire crews contained the blaze and left the scene at 4:44 a.m., but its cause and the full extent of the damage remain unknown. Owner Ryan Hole said the family was devastated but hoped to reopen the business as soon as possible, while regular customers described the closure as heartbreaking.

A planned blast at Breedon's Taffs Well Quarry was followed by a powerful surge of water, mud and rocks through Gwaelod-y-Garth near Cardiff. The debris flooded and damaged council-owned sports pitches used by more than 300 children in 17 Gwaelod Rangers teams, leaving the club uncertain when training and matches can resume. Cardiff Council is preparing an action plan and supporting the wider cleanup, while the Health and Safety Executive and South Wales Police investigate the incident.

Gwent Police arrested a 50-year-old man from Newport on suspicion of assault after CCTV enquiries into an alleged attack on Bridge Street. Footage shared online appeared to show a man punching, pushing and kicking another man near an HSBC bank, with a woman also apparently involved. Police said the suspect remains in custody and urged residents to report concerns and suspicious activity while working with Newport City Council to improve city-centre safety.

A campfire that reignited beneath exceptionally dry peat near Carnedd Meibion-Owen in the Preseli Hills came close to damaging ancient woodland, wildlife and internationally important habitats. Rangers alerted the fire service after discovering a burning rocky outcrop, and crews from Fishguard extinguished the blaze. The incident occurred amid drought conditions across Wales and heightened wildfire risk following weeks of hot, dry weather. The Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority urged visitors not to use campfires, barbecues, fireworks or sky lanterns, and to report fires immediately.

A man was taken to the University Hospital of Wales after an altercation between two men on Adeline Street in Splott, Cardiff, on the evening of July 29. South Wales Police are investigating, and no arrests had been made at the time of publication.

Three teenagers were injured when a car collided with a motorcycle on Llanthewy Road in Newport in the early hours of July 26, with the car reportedly leaving the scene. One teenager has been discharged and two remain in stable condition. Gwent Police arrested a 19-year-old man on suspicion of causing grievous bodily harm with intent and a 20-year-old woman on suspicion of assisting an offender; both remain in custody. The investigation is ongoing, and police are appealing for witnesses, CCTV and dashcam footage.

Samantha Maxwell, a 33-year-old Wrexham author with cerebral palsy, says she was refused retail and employment opportunities and was once dismissed because managers did not want a wheelchair user representing their business. Writing her autobiography, CP Isn't Me, helped her recover from severe depression and challenge assumptions that reduce disabled people to their conditions. Pendine Arts and Community Trust, backed by Pendine Park, donated £325 toward an accessible audiobook, while Maxwell continues fundraising to reach the £2,000 production target. She has since published two more books, works with Accessible Wrexham and serves as a Wrecsam2029 ambassador, promoting disability inclusion and accessibility.

Verdi's café and restaurant in Mumbles, Swansea, was hit by an overnight fire that was confined to its kitchen and toilet area. No one was injured, but the business will remain closed while the extent of the damage is assessed. Owner Ryan Hole said the family hopes to reopen as soon as it is safe, while the cause of the fire remains unknown. Multiple crews from the Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service attended the incident and prevented it from spreading.

Stereophonics frontman Kelly Jones paid tribute to Glen Hansard after the Irish singer-songwriter died in a motorcycle crash in Dublin at age 56. Jones recalled singing with Hansard and described him as a warm, beautiful man, while Bruce Springsteen, Bono and Ed Sheeran also shared tributes praising Hansard's talent, generosity and compassion. Hansard, former frontman of The Frames and an Oscar-winning musician known for The Commitments, leaves behind a three-year-old son and had recently announced an Irish tour.

A pedestrian died after being struck by several vehicles, including a marked police vehicle, on the A40 bypass in Carmarthen shortly before 10pm on 28 July 2026. Dyfed-Powys Police said six vehicles were involved, no arrests had been made, and the pedestrian’s identity was still being established. The force referred the incident to the Independent Office for Police Conduct, while both carriageways were expected to remain closed during the investigation. Police appealed for witnesses and motorists with relevant dashcam footage.

South Wales Police are appealing for information to locate 75-year-old Clive Guppy, who was last seen on Cefnpennar Road in Aberdare on July 28. He was wearing navy clothing and is believed to have left in a white Vauxhall Corsa with registration BG20 KNU. Anyone with information is asked to contact police, Crimestoppers or emergency services where appropriate.

Traffic management workers on the Menai Suspension Bridge have faced increasingly frequent abuse and harassment while enforcing a 7.5-tonne weight restriction during essential repair works. A serious incident on 27 July 2026 led UK Highways A55 Limited to temporarily suspend operations, citing risks to staff welfare and safety. The company said traffic management resumed on 28 July and warned that further harassment or refusal to comply could result in police referrals, workers leaving the site and bridge closures. The restriction is necessary because repair scaffolding and equipment add 42 tonnes to the Grade I-listed bridge, and overweight vehicles require safety inspections before further crossings.

Police are investigating an apparent broad-daylight assault on Bridge Street in Newport on July 26, 2026. Video footage appears to show a man and woman punching another man against an HSBC bank, kicking him in the head after he falls, and removing and throwing his shoe. Gwent Police are reviewing CCTV to identify those involved and are working with Newport City Council on city-centre safety. Witnesses are urged to contact police, Crimestoppers, or the Neighbourhood Matters scheme.

Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board recorded 11 never events in 2025/26, six more than the previous year and the highest total among Welsh health boards. The report identifies the incidents as serious, largely preventable patient-safety failures and says stronger investigations, governance and learning systems are needed, with an ambition of zero new events in 2026/27. The board has remained under heightened Welsh Government escalation for 11 years, including at the highest level since February 2023, amid concerns over emergency care, cancer waiting times and finances. Health Minister Mabon ap Gwynfor has described the board as having a final chance to improve.

Armed officers responded to a reported aggravated burglary at Great Western Crescent in Llanelli shortly after 7am on July 27. Two men, aged 35 and 49, were arrested and remained in police custody. Police said the incident was isolated, involved people known to each other and posed no wider threat to the public, although a police presence would continue during the investigation.

Family-run Vale Veterinary Centre has ceased trading with immediate effect, closing its three branches in Barry, Cardiff and Newport and cancelling all future appointments. The practice says customers can request that patient histories be transferred to local veterinary practices and asks the public to respect staff during the difficult period.

A 21-year-old Newport man remains in hospital in serious but stable condition after his Honda 300 motorcycle collided with a Mercedes A160 and a Skoda Fabia near the bridge between Blaina Wharf and Spytty Road on July 24. Gwent Police conducted a detailed forensic examination, closed the road for several hours, and are appealing for witnesses and dashcam footage from motorists who were in the area between 1:20pm and 2pm.

Two people were rescued after entering an active wildfire zone in Wales despite police roadblocks and official warnings, reportedly to film drone footage. South Snowdonia Search and Rescue Team volunteers and a specialist helicopter were deployed after the pair became stranded, creating significant public expense and exposing rescuers to unnecessary risk. Emergency services warned that visitors and wild campers near wildfire areas divert resources from firefighting and protecting local communities, urging the public to stay away and follow closures and official updates.

Three people have been arrested after a disturbance on Gomer Road in Townhill, Swansea. A 41-year-old man from Waun Wen, who was arrested on suspicion of causing grievous bodily harm with intent, remains in hospital receiving treatment for injuries. A 43-year-old man from Townhill and a 39-year-old woman from Swansea remain in police custody. South Wales Police said its investigation is ongoing.

A grass fire broke out on Kilvey Hill in Swansea, with flames approaching nearby homes and smoke and ash spreading across the city. South Wales Police advised people in the vicinity to keep doors and windows closed, while Swansea Council leader Rob Stewart urged residents to follow emergency guidance. The incident comes after weeks of dry weather and a series of major Welsh wildfires, including a Blaenavon blaze that has scorched more than 300 football pitches and is expected to continue burning for several days.

At their first meeting since Andy Burnham became Prime Minister, Welsh First Minister Rhun ap Iorwerth urged him to match his support for devolving power to English regions by giving Wales powers equivalent to Scotland’s. Ap Iorwerth called for a new Wales Bill covering policing and justice and for a replacement for the Barnett Formula, which he described as outdated. Burnham pledged an open, cooperative relationship focused on growth, investment and practical measures, while ruling out further independence referendums for the time being. Both leaders also discussed the cost-of-living crisis and a more collaborative approach to politics.

A specialist firefighting helicopter is due to support crews tackling the long-running Rhinogydd wildfire near Harlech, following days of criticism over the lack of aerial assistance. Wales is experiencing significant fires in Rhinogydd, Blaenavon and other locations after weeks of dry weather. The Blaenavon blaze remains the priority for ground operations, while officials say there is no current threat to life or property. Rain forecast across Wales from Saturday is expected to help firefighters, although the fires may continue burning for several days.

Rhun ap Iorwerth plans to urge Prime Minister Andy Burnham to expand devolved powers and reform Wales’ funding model during their first in‑person meeting in Glasgow. The discussion coincides with Burnham’s visit for the Commonwealth Games and follows earlier introductory calls with UK nation leaders. Ap Iorwerth highlights the need for parity with Scotland, warning against a centralised approach from the new administration. Burnham, who has expressed support for devolution, aims to work collaboratively with devolved governments while focusing on practical issues rather than constitutional change.

A large wildfire burning for several days above Blaenavon has scorched around 200 hectares and produced smoke affecting communities up to 30 miles away across south Wales. South Wales Fire and Rescue Service continues to face challenges due to the terrain, weather and the scale of the blaze, while Public Health Wales urges residents to stay indoors and keep windows closed. Crisis management arrangements have been activated by the Welsh Government, which reports no available Ministry of Defence helicopters to assist. Images captured on site show widespread burned land, ongoing smoke and continued firefighting efforts expected to last for days.

The Welsh Government activated crisis management measures as major wildfires in Blaenavon and Harlech strained resources across Wales. Fire crews have battled large blazes for days across challenging terrain, with smoke affecting communities miles away. Both South Wales and North Wales fire services reported significant ongoing incidents and requested helicopter support, but the Ministry of Defence confirmed none were available anywhere in the UK. Government officials are holding urgent discussions to address the lack of aerial assistance while emphasising that ground firefighting remains the most effective tactic. Multiple agencies continue coordinating efforts to bring the fires under control.

A fire broke out at Awel Y Mor Primary School in Port Talbot, prompting staff to evacuate toddlers attending the Lots of Tots holiday club. Multiple fire crews brought the blaze under control by early afternoon after tackling flames within the school’s sandwich panels. The holiday group will remain closed for the week while damage is assessed and safety plans are made. Authorities have been contacted for further information.

Live updates provide the winning numbers for two rounds of the National Lottery Lotto draw and highlight the schedule and prizes for Lotto, Thunderball and Powerball, including a £2 million Lotto jackpot and a £500,000 Thunderball top prize, with additional information on the UK Powerball game and participation details.

Six people appeared at Cardiff Crown Court in connection with the deaths of teenagers Jaydon Bowyer and Ta‑Shay Canoville, who were fatally struck by a BMW in Newport. Terell Case and Joshua Williams were charged with murder, while Case and four others faced charges of perverting the course of justice. The hearing resulted in no pleas and a postponement to August 11. Families of both victims offered emotional tributes highlighting the boys’ characters, community ties and the deep loss felt by loved ones.

A kitten named Gemini, born in Wales with the rare condition diprosopus resulting in two noses and two mouths, died peacefully less than a week after birth. Cared for at the PurrfectlyFeral rescue centre in Powys, she received constant attention and affection. The organisation said her short life helped highlight the importance of neutering and responsible pet ownership, inspiring widespread compassion and support from the public.

Reports the winning numbers for the EuroMillions and Thunderball draws, including the £50 million EuroMillions jackpot outcomes and the Thunderball results, with timing updates as the draws took place.

The family of Darcy Ross confronted garage owner Neil John Lewis outside Cardiff Magistrates' Court after he admitted falsifying the MOT of the Volkswagen Tiguan that later crashed in St Mellons in 2023, killing three people. The family expressed ongoing grief and dissatisfaction as they continue seeking accountability. Police misconduct investigations involving four Gwent Police officers are pending, and Lewis’ case has been adjourned for a later hearing.

Heavy congestion on the A4232 near Cardiff caused long delays, particularly around Culverhouse Cross and towards the M4. Traffic was slow in both directions, with inbound routes facing the longest queues. Conditions gradually improved through the evening, and traffic later returned to normal with only minor delays remaining.

A crash has closed Cwmavon Road between Blaenavon and Abersychan, with Gwent Police advising drivers to avoid the area due to diversions and congestion. Emergency services remain at the scene. A separate significant wildfire in the Blaenavon area is also being tackled by South Wales Fire and Rescue Service, with smoke visible for miles and residents advised to keep windows closed.

Jo Stevens has been removed as Welsh Secretary as new Prime Minister Andy Burnham reshapes the cabinet, dismissing several senior figures including Rachel Reeves, David Lammy and Peter Kyle. Stevens issued a statement describing her two-year tenure as an honour and highlighting achievements such as increased investment in Wales, major infrastructure commitments and economic improvements. She praised former prime minister Keir Starmer for his leadership and expressed support for her successor and the new government team. Burnham is expected to confirm his full cabinet lineup later in the day.

Nine men aged 54 to 76 have been charged with 41 offences connected to Operation Oak, Gwent Police’s investigation into group-based child sexual exploitation alleged to have occurred between 1985 and 1996. The latest arrest resulted in charges against Mohammed Ramzan for multiple counts of rape, indecent assault and conspiracy offences. The other eight men face a range of rape, indecent assault and prostitution-related charges. All are due to appear before Newport Magistrates’ Court on July 24. Police emphasised support for victims and urged the public not to post information that could affect court proceedings, while encouraging anyone affected by abuse to come forward for help.

Emergency services, including a police helicopter, officers and paramedics, responded overnight to reports of an abandoned car near Newcastle Hill in Bridgend. The National Police Air Service deployed a helicopter for a search related to a road traffic incident, with investigations still ongoing.

Angharad Williamson, convicted in 2022 of murdering her five-year-old son Logan Mwangi, is seeking a review of her conviction through the Criminal Cases Review Commission, according to statements made during a pre-inquest hearing. Her representative, former police officer Tony Thompson, said he is reviewing the case to determine whether grounds exist for an application. The inquest will examine safeguarding actions taken before Logan’s death, events leading to his discovery in the River Ogmore in July 2021, and the circumstances surrounding his injuries. Representatives from police, local government and the regional health board participated in the hearing, and Williamson previously failed in a Court of Appeal challenge to her conviction.

Emergency services responded after a person was stung by a jellyfish at Aberavon Beach during a heatwave. The Port Talbot Coastguard assessed and handed over the individual to others before standing down. Officials warned beachgoers that jellyfish may be present along the shoreline. NHS guidance advises rinsing stings with seawater, removing spines, applying very warm water and taking painkillers, while avoiding urine, ice and direct contact with tentacles.

Police are investigating repeated incidents in which metal spikes were placed on a public right of way near Pembrey Road in Kidwelly between June 5 and July 1, damaging farm equipment and other vehicles. Authorities warn the spikes could injure people using the path and are appealing for information, directing the public to contact Dyfed-Powys Police or Crimestoppers.

Carl's Jr closed its Swansea restaurant less than a year after opening, removing signage and shifting the site to a delivery-only operation following stronger demand for delivery services. The UK franchise owner, Boparan Restaurant Group, said the move supports long-term growth plans while the Cardiff branch continues to operate normally. The Swansea kitchen will maintain the full menu through existing delivery partners.

Emergency services responded to a house fire on Elphin Gardens in Townhill, Swansea, where a man was pronounced dead at the scene. Police reported no suspicious circumstances and are working to identify the victim and locate next of kin. The local authority has secured the area, and police are asking anyone with concerns about residents in the vicinity to come forward.

A popular Cardiff café, Maasi’s, will close at the end of August after St Luke’s Church ended its agreement for the business to use the church hall, citing the café’s growth into a full commercial operation and the church’s need to regain the space for parish and community activities. Owner Sabrina Khan expressed disappointment, saying attempts to negotiate had failed, while the church stated that continuing the charitable rent would breach charity rules. Maasi’s plans to continue operating elsewhere through reinvention and pop-up events.

A single‑vehicle crash on the M4 between junctions 33 and 34 near Miskin left a driver seriously injured and temporarily closed the motorway in both directions. An air ambulance attended, causing significant delays across surrounding routes until the road reopened shortly after 6 p.m. Police are appealing for witnesses to assist their investigation.

A 30-year-old man, Josh Roberts of Monmouthshire, died in hospital after a collision involving an electric bicycle and a bus on the A48 near Chepstow. Emergency services, including Wales Air Ambulance, responded, but he succumbed to his injuries four days later. His family paid tribute, describing him as a devoted father and a “loveable rogue,” and thanked those who assisted at the scene. Gwent Police are continuing the investigation and appealing for information.

Subzero, a long-established south Wales ice cream maker, plans to open its largest parlour yet in Bridgend, joining existing locations in the Rhondda, Newport and Caerphilly. The family-run business, known for producing more than 60 flavours and award-winning desserts, has not yet confirmed the opening date or exact address. The expansion marks a major milestone for the company, which began making ice cream in the 1950s and rebranded in 2009 before opening its first parlour in 2016.

Wales is set to experience continued high temperatures above 30C through the week, marking the UK’s third heatwave in recent months. Forecasters expect mostly settled, sunny weather, with only limited risk of thunderstorms later in the week and a modest temperature drop by the weekend. Wildfire risk remains high, following a large blaze in north Wales that burned more than 200 acres and forced evacuations. Fire officials urge the public to avoid activities that could spark fires and to take extra caution during the prolonged hot and dry conditions.

Multiple crashes caused long delays on key stretches of the M4 in south Wales, with queues of up to 45 minutes reported near Newport and further congestion around Port Talbot. Collisions between junctions 25 and 24 in Newport and between junctions 43 and 44 near Llandarcy and Llamsamlet contributed to significant disruption before being cleared. Traffic gradually eased after lanes reopened, though earlier congestion stretched back toward Cardiff.

Police tracked Owen Pendree by helicopter as he performed wheelies and drove dangerously on a Sur-Ron e-bike through Newport before throwing it into the river. Officers deployed a stinger, arrested him near Clarence Place, and he later pleaded guilty to dangerous driving, driving while disqualified, and having no insurance. He received a 12‑month prison sentence and a three-and-a-half‑year driving ban, with police emphasizing continued action against illegal e-bike use.

A ward at Glangwili Hospital in Carmarthen was closed after a case of crusted scabies was identified, amid rising scabies prevalence across regions overseen by Hywel Dda University Health Board. All patient and staff contacts have been informed and treated, and enhanced infection-control measures are in place. The ward will reopen once it is considered safe under infection control guidance.

More than 80% of Labour MPs publicly endorsed Andy Burnham to succeed Keir Starmer, effectively securing his position as the next party leader and likely prime minister. Despite the overwhelming support, 78 Labour MPs, including seven from Wales and several high-profile figures, did not back him. Burnham expressed gratitude for the endorsements and emphasised a commitment to empowering MPs and broadening Labour’s approach to governing.

A crash on the eastbound M48 Severn Bridge caused all traffic to be held, creating long delays from around 6.30am. Police advised drivers to avoid the area while emergency services responded. Traffic was later released, with the bridge remaining partially blocked until the incident was cleared. Conditions gradually returned to normal as queues eased, while separate delays were reported on the M4 near junctions 23 and 23A.

A murder investigation was opened after an 18-year-old man died and a 19-year-old was injured in a collision between a car and an off‑road bike in Gorseinon, Swansea. Police arrested an 18-year-old from Morriston on suspicion of murder and multiple driving offences, while forensic teams conducted extensive work at the scene. Authorities described the case as complex and appealed for dashcam or CCTV footage from several nearby roads as part of ongoing inquiries.

Ann Widdecombe, former Conservative MP, Brexit Party MEP and Reform UK supporter, has died aged 78. Her management praised her long public-service career, strong Christian values and enthusiasm for political debate. Widdecombe was known for her high-profile media presence, including a memorable comedic run on Strictly Come Dancing and appearances across television and radio. Colleagues and supporters were told her death came as a shock, and condolences were extended to her family.

Welsh singer Bonnie Tyler has died at age 75 in Portugal after complications from recent emergency intestinal surgery. Her family announced the news and requested privacy. Widely known for hits such as Total Eclipse of the Heart and Holding Out for a Hero, Tyler had previously noted she received almost no streaming revenue despite massive global plays. Tributes from public figures and fans highlighted her cultural impact in Wales and beyond.

Welsh singer Bonnie Tyler has died at 75 following complications from recent emergency intestinal surgery in Portugal. Her family announced her unexpected death and requested privacy. The obituary recounts her rise to fame, the transformation of her voice after vocal cord surgery, and her global success with hits such as Total Eclipse of the Heart and Holding Out For A Hero. It highlights key career milestones, including collaborations with Jim Steinman, chart achievements, later performances, and notable public appearances. Details of her early life, personal history, and recent health struggles conclude the account.

Emergency repairs to the central reservation on the A470 between Pontypridd and Upper Boat are causing long delays in both directions after an HGV crash damaged the barrier. One lane is closed each way, with Traffic Wales warning the restrictions may remain for several days. Congestion is heavy for drivers heading toward Cardiff, and additional disruption is reported on the M4 at multiple junctions due to a crash and a broken‑down vehicle.

A prolonged heatwave is forecast across Wales, with temperatures in several southern areas expected to remain above 25C for ten days and peak above 30C on July 10. The Met Office reports this will be the UK’s third heatwave of the year, though not as extreme as June’s record‑breaking event. Areas including Cardiff, Swansea, Monmouth and Merthyr are expected to see the highest temperatures, prompting reminders for the public to take standard hot‑weather precautions as conditions extend across much of the UK.

Emergency services recovered the body of 18‑year‑old student Umar Dumbuya after he disappeared in the River Wye during a Duke of Edinburgh expedition in Powys. His family and Leyton Sixth Form College paid tribute, describing him as kind and much-loved, while a GoFundMe campaign was launched to support funeral expenses. The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award expressed condolences and is working with authorities to understand how the incident occurred.

A dead dog was found inside a weighted Adidas bag in the River Dee near Holt, prompting an RSPCA investigation into the suspicious incident. The discovery occurred a day after a similar case in Bristol, where a puppy was found pinned under a rock by a stream. Officers described both cases as disturbing and urged the public to provide any information. The RSPCA also encouraged struggling pet owners to seek help rather than abandon animals.

A large rockfall occurred at Jackson’s Bay in Barry during a period of hot weather, prompting the Vale of Glamorgan Council to assess the site and warn visitors to avoid cliffs. Authorities highlighted that extreme temperatures can increase rockfall risk, with a British Geological Survey specialist explaining how heat-related expansion and cracking contribute. No injuries were reported as Wales experiences another spell of temperatures above 30C.

A police operation in Cardiff used a National Police Air Service aeroplane to track illegal e-bike and e-scooter riders as part of an anti-social behaviour crackdown, resulting in 68 illegal vehicles being seized and multiple arrests for drug offences and related crimes. Officers targeted areas including the Taff Trail, Ely, Gabalfa and city centre districts, with council officials highlighting public safety concerns and ongoing joint efforts that have removed hundreds of illegal bikes since 2025.

A house fire on the Peulwys estate in Old Colwyn destroyed the home of Jodie Dawe, Dave Beman and their son Alfie, killing their pet cat and leaving them with no possessions. Five fire crews extinguished the blaze, which also damaged a neighbouring property. Local residents quickly organised donations of clothing and essentials, while friend Helen Lehart launched a GoFundMe that raised around £3,000. Cartrefi Conwy confirmed it is supporting the affected families as fire investigators examined the scene.

A cyclist remains in life-threatening condition after a collision with a bus on the A48 in Pwllmeyric near Chepstow. Emergency services, including Gwent Police, the Welsh Ambulance Service and Wales Air Ambulance, attended the early morning incident, and the road remains closed for investigations. Authorities have urged the public to avoid the area as congestion builds on surrounding routes.

Live updates report an assault under a Cardiff flyover that left two men hospitalised, a road closure on the A48 in Monmouthshire due to a collision, and a warm weather forecast with clearing cloud across Wales.