Emma O'Neill

The Royal Family is expected to spend much of August at Balmoral, continuing its annual Scottish summer retreat. King Charles III has repeatedly embraced Highland dress, including kilts and the Balmoral royal tartan, while Prince William has rarely worn a kilt in public, including at his University of St Andrews graduation. William, Catherine and their children are expected to visit the estate before Prince George begins at Eton College, with royal commentator Jennie Bond describing Balmoral as a secluded place for the family to relax away from public duties.

Mount Etna has erupted again, sending ash, volcanic bombs and lava into the air and disrupting flights at Catania International Airport in Sicily. Arrivals were halted and restrictions extended as volcanic ash threatened aviation, prompting the Etna Observatory to raise the aviation alert to its highest level. British tourists and other passengers have faced cancellations and diversions, while airlines advise travelers to check for updates before departing. Despite the disruption, the volcano remains a major tourist attraction.

The Megara Olympians Municipal Stadium in Greece has been converted into an emergency shelter for more than 110 dogs rescued from wildfires in the Attica region. Volunteers and veterinarians are caring for the animals, some of which may be reunited with their owners. The fires, intensified by dry conditions and strong winds, have destroyed homes and wildlife habitats, while Attica has lost 42% of its forests to wildfires over the past decade. Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis said affected forests, particularly Aleppo pine forests, can naturally regenerate, although authorities acknowledged major environmental damage. Thirty-three people were arrested between June 29 and August 2 on suspicion of starting fires, mostly through negligence.

Daniel Kinahan is expected to be extradited from Dubai to Ireland after losing his final appeal. The Irish Prison Service has reportedly refurbished a high-security wing at Portlaoise Prison with a dedicated gym and library, deployed additional staff and acquired a disguised bullet- and bomb-proof transport van for his arrival. Kinahan is expected to appear before Dublin’s Special Criminal Court and faces a possible charge of directing a criminal organization, which carries a maximum life sentence. Gardaí’s case is reportedly based in part on encrypted PGP communications allegedly linking Kinahan to orders concerning gangland violence, including the murder of Eddie Hutch and plots targeting James Gately. Podcast host James English has claimed Kinahan intends to give interviews after returning to Ireland.

Jenni Pettican, a wheelchair user with chronic illnesses, says she was left stranded at the altar during her £16,000 wedding at Newland Hall near Chelmsford after staff failed to return a promised access ramp. Guests and members of the wedding party had to assemble and position it while the ceremony was underway. Pettican also says she faced earlier disputes over step-free access and was allegedly asked for a higher deposit to keep an accessible door unlocked. She filed a complaint, but says the venue did not apologise or accept responsibility. Newland Hall's new owners, who took over after the wedding, said they were not involved but are reviewing procedures, arranging an accessibility assessment and introducing disability-awareness training.

A Gambian family from Leeds—36-year-old Abu Camara, his wife, their seven-month-old daughter and an 18-year-old woman believed to be a relative—died when a red Hyundai left the A38 near Derby and hit a tree. The 33-year-old driver survived with serious injuries, was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and later bailed. Gambian community representatives and the Gambia High Commission paid tribute to the victims and are coordinating with the families and authorities.

A single GEFS model run has projected an extreme but highly unlikely 45°C temperature in parts of southeast England. Other models indicate a more credible heat surge, with Birmingham and the wider West Midlands expected to experience dry, sunny conditions and temperatures around 29°C to 31°C on Tuesday and Wednesday, alongside warm, muggy nights. The Met Office and BBC forecast a return to very warm weather across central, southern and eastern England, potentially marking another official heatwave episode.

Two children were killed after being ejected from a Tidewater Custom 280 that struck a channel marker in the Intercoastal Waterway near Berkeley Township, New Jersey. State Police reported that operator Stephen Schneider and passenger Laurie Schneider retrieved the children from the water, but both were pronounced dead at a hospital. Authorities continue to investigate the crash. In a separate incident in France, two firefighters died battling a blaze near Bordeaux Airport, temporarily grounding flights before services resumed.

Testimony at an inquest detailed that Peter Lynch, who died by hanging in HMP Moorland, displayed unusual and confused behaviour after his arrest for disorder outside an asylum seeker hotel. A custody sergeant said Lynch refused to give his surname, declined food and drink, and repeatedly identified himself only by a phrase referencing his parents. Although the officer acknowledged in hindsight that a mental health referral would have been appropriate, he maintained that Lynch had been fit for interview. A pathologist confirmed death by hanging and noted no contribution from Lynch’s existing medical conditions. The inquest also heard that a flag linked to far‑right ideology was found in his home. Proceedings will continue on Tuesday.

An inquest concluded that 18-year-old student Xander Furlong died of natural causes in a Costa Rica hotel room while on a sea turtle conservation trip. Medical findings identified arterial hypertension, coronary atherosclerosis, mixed cardiomyopathy and a recent myocardial infarction, with toxicology showing no alcohol or drugs. His history of narcolepsy, cataplexy and high blood pressure was detailed, along with recent illness from dehydration and diarrhoea. The coroner confirmed natural causes as the official ruling.

Keir Starmer suggested an England World Cup victory could lead to an extra bank holiday, likely the Friday after the July 19 final, while praising the team's recent win over Mexico. Speaking at a NATO summit, he joked with Norway’s leader ahead of their upcoming match and noted he had declined requests to intervene over Jarell Quansah’s red card despite Donald Trump seeking similar action from FIFA for a US player.

Police opened a murder investigation after a man in his 40s was found dead in a caravan on Derby Road in Loughborough. A 56-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of murder, and forensic examinations are underway as officers work to understand events surrounding a reported prior altercation. Authorities expect to maintain a cordon while enquiries continue and urge anyone with information to contact Leicestershire Police.

Kate Middleton completed the Three Peaks Challenge to raise money for The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity and was met by her family at Snowdon, with newly released photos showing their reunion. Kensington Palace confirmed she is the first royal to complete the challenge. During the climb she met 11‑year‑old Ted, a wheelchair user raising funds for Molly Olly's Wishes, and later donated to his campaign. His fundraising has surpassed £11,000, with his family highlighting his determination and previous mountain achievements.

Two missing men from Preston, William Hutchinson and Stuart Tallis, were found dead in a crashed blue Peugeot 106 concealed in thick undergrowth off the A584 in Lancashire. Police believe the vehicle left the westbound carriageway early on 24 June and are appealing for witnesses and any relevant CCTV or dashcam footage. Families of the victims have been notified, and investigators are working to determine the circumstances leading to the collision.

A Greek man was sentenced to ten years in prison for the 2009 murder of Scottish mother Jean Hanlon in Crete, though he was released pending appeal under Greek law. Evidence presented at the Lassithi Mixed Assize Court included injuries identified in a second post‑mortem and testimony from a pathologist suggesting a fatal blow rather than accidental drowning. A private investigator hired by Hanlon’s sons uncovered information that contributed to the prosecution. Her sons, who have pursued justice for nearly two decades, delivered emotional testimony during the trial.

Several children were rescued from dangerous rip currents at Tywyn beach in Gwynedd, prompting renewed calls from residents for permanent lifeguards and clearer safety signage. Bystanders intervened in multiple incidents during a heatwave, with locals warning that lives were nearly lost. The beach has a history of rip‑related tragedies, including a fatal 2015 rescue attempt, and past incidents have similarly led to appeals for enhanced safety measures. Residents argue that existing signs and red flag warnings are inadequate and often ignored.

Zoo owners Andy and Tracey Johnson issued a public statement describing the alleged throwing of a three-year-old boy into a crocodile enclosure as one of the most distressing incidents their team has faced. They thanked emergency responders, visitors and staff for their rapid actions, and expressed ongoing concern for the child, who remains in stable condition with serious injuries at Addenbrooke's Hospital. A 30-year-old man from Norfolk was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder and released on bail as investigations continue. The zoo’s Tropical House has since reopened after a temporary closure out of respect for the family.

A Bristol couple received bans on keeping animals after James Andrew Marchant was filmed throwing a malnourished terrier named Boomer over a six‑foot garden gate. Marchant pleaded guilty to two animal welfare offences and was banned from keeping animals for ten years, while Clair Yvonne Malik admitted failing to meet the dog's needs and received a five‑year ban. Veterinary evidence highlighted the pain and anxiety the dog suffered, and Boomer later recovered in RSPCA care. The RSPCA credited the neighbour who reported the incident and emphasised the importance of public vigilance in animal welfare cases.

A suspected targeted arson attack destroyed a car belonging to the late boxer Ricky Hatton outside his son Campbell Hatton’s home in Hattersley, Hyde. The fire, reported late on June 29, also caused damage to a front window, prompting a major investigation by Greater Manchester Police, who believe there is no wider risk to the public. Campbell Hatton said the vehicle held significant sentimental value and appealed for information after CCTV showed two individuals approaching the property. Fire crews later also responded to a gas leak in the area, with no injuries reported.

Frankie Dettori was hospitalised with multiple broken ribs and a broken thumb after his car was hit and flipped in Newmarket, prompting an emergency response and ongoing medical evaluation. His management confirmed the incident and requested privacy while he recovers. The article revisits key moments from Dettori’s distinguished racing career and recalls a previous aviation accident in 2000 that he survived.

Three teenage boys convicted of multiple rapes and indecent image offences are the subject of an appeal after the Attorney General referred their non-custodial sentences as unduly lenient. Prosecutors argued that detention was the only appropriate punishment given the seriousness and number of offences and said the sentencing judge misapplied key principles. Defence barristers maintained the sentences were within the reasonable range and accounted for the boys’ age, backgrounds and neurodevelopmental conditions. One victim described ongoing severe trauma, and the Court of Appeal is expected to deliver its decision after the hearing concludes.

Two Hampshire police officers are under investigation for potential gross misconduct after restraining and handcuffing 18‑year‑old Henry Nowak as he lay dying from stab wounds inflicted by Vickrum Digwa in Southampton. The Independent Office for Police Conduct is examining whether officers ignored Nowak’s pleas for help, failed to recognise his injuries and whether race or religion influenced their decisions. Digwa has received a life sentence, and public anger over the incident sparked violent protests resulting in multiple arrests. The IOPC states that gross misconduct notices do not guarantee disciplinary action, with final decisions pending completion of the investigation.

A Scottish man, 37‑year‑old Danny Vettrino, was found dead with multiple gunshot wounds in the Gym Hill area of Canouan in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Police opened an investigation and plan a post‑mortem examination while two men were reportedly detained for questioning. Vettrino, who had worked internationally before taking a role at a resort on the island, received numerous online tributes from family and friends following news of his death.