Ethan Blackshaw

Thomas Ridgway, a photography teacher at Heathfield School in Ascot, was banned indefinitely from teaching in England after failing to disclose that his fiancée had been convicted of sexual offences involving a minor. A Teaching Regulation Agency tribunal found that he knew more about the offences than he admitted and had failed in his safeguarding duty, although it did not find that he deliberately misled the school. A senior TRA official overruled the tribunal's recommendation against an indefinite ban, citing Ridgway's limited remorse, lack of insight and the potential safeguarding risk to pupils.

Lawyers Carlo Arnulfo, 64, and Angela Buccico, 55, were found dead inside the burned-out cockpit of their Tecnam P2008 ultralight aircraft after it disappeared shortly after take-off in Italy. The wreckage was located in woodland near Fuscaldo following a witness tip and an Italian Air Force helicopter search. Investigators will examine the aircraft’s black box, debris, weather, terrain and possible loss of control, while prosecutors plan to appoint a technical expert to assess potential negligence. Arnulfo was an experienced pilot and prominent lawyer, while Buccico worked at her family’s long-established law firm.

A magnitude 6.7 earthquake struck Peru’s southern Andes, centered 38 kilometers northwest of Upahuacho in the Ayacucho region, at a depth of 66.7 kilometers. Tremors were felt across Ayacucho, Ica and Arequipa, and reported landslides sent debris down nearby mountainsides. There were no immediate reports of injuries or major damage, and no tsunami warning was issued.

Russian state television host Vladimir Solovyov threatened that Russia could wipe the United Kingdom off the map and called for the destruction of British, French and German military-related assets. His remarks followed UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham’s pledge to maintain support for Ukraine after British-made drones were reportedly used in Ukrainian strikes inside Russia. The threats come amid escalating Ukrainian attacks on Russian military and energy infrastructure, as well as strikes affecting Wildberries distribution depots.

Weather models suggest temperatures in eastern and southeastern England could climb to 34C on September 2, with 15 counties potentially reaching at least 31C. A brief cooler and wetter spell is expected across much of the UK, particularly in northern areas, before warmer conditions return. The Met Office says late-season hot spells or heatwaves could develop between September 2 and 16, with southern areas likely to be drier and northern areas receiving more rain and strong winds.

The Met Office has issued yellow thunderstorm warnings covering parts of Northern Ireland, Scotland, northern England and North Wales from 19 to 20 August 2026. Heavy rain, hail, lightning, flooding, power cuts and travel disruption are possible, with rainfall totals reaching up to 50mm in parts of England and Wales. Residents are advised to prepare flood plans and emergency kits, and to keep torches, batteries and phone power packs available.

A fundraiser for sisters Niamh Kinsella, Alma Kinsella and Ella Hendricken surpassed €190,000 from more than 7,000 donations after their car was hit head-on by a BMW allegedly travelling the wrong way on the M9 in County Kildare. Niamh and Alma remain in critical condition, while Ella and a child were seriously injured. Five teenagers in the BMW died. The sisters’ family, from County Carlow, had been travelling to Dublin Airport for a wedding, and local residents and clergy have described strong community support for them and the bereaved families.

James Connolly, a 49-year-old lift supervisor, died in June 2023 after a telehandler operated by colleague Michael Nixon struck and reversed over him at a construction site in Ince, Ellesmere Port. A Health and Safety Executive investigation found that Nixon reversed without a banksman and used his phone while operating the vehicle. Nixon pleaded guilty to breaching the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 and received a 12-week prison sentence suspended for 12 months, an £800 fine and an order to pay £2,000 in costs. Connolly’s daughter and mother described their continuing anger, grief and trauma.

The Met Office forecasts heavy and thundery showers across parts of the UK on Wednesday, with the greatest risk in Scotland and Northern Ireland. Lightning and hail are possible across 33 counties, while England and Wales are expected to see more sunshine and scattered showers. Temperatures have fallen from the previous week’s record heat, and BBC Weather broadly supports the forecast, with further showers and possible thunder or hail expected later in the week.

A teenage boy was seriously injured in a reported shooting at a school in Södertälje, Sweden. Police launched an operation after receiving reports of gunshots and arrested a 14-year-old girl suspected of being the shooter. Local reports said she had escaped from a nearby treatment centre and was carrying a weapon when detained, while police provided limited details about the incident.

King Harald V of Norway has been admitted to the National Hospital after treatment with cortisone for hemolytic anaemia caused fluid accumulation. He will take two weeks of sick leave, during which the Crown Prince will serve as Regent. The 89-year-old monarch has experienced several recent health problems, including hospitalisations for infection, dehydration and a dangerously low heart rate that led to the fitting of a permanent pacemaker in 2024.

Heavy and potentially thundery rain is forecast across parts of England and Wales on Thursday, with 17 counties—mainly in northern and central areas—identified as being at risk. The rain could provide relief from drought conditions and hosepipe bans following intense summer heat. BBC Weather also forecasts scattered heavy showers, with possible lightning and hail, while temperatures are expected to fall to around 23C on Thursday and 22C on Friday.

Thunderstorms and sporadic heavy rain are forecast for Saturday morning across 12 counties in south-eastern and eastern England, including Kent, Essex, Norfolk, Suffolk and surrounding areas, following a heatwave and the hottest day of the year so far. The Met Office says the downpours should ease during Saturday, while northern England, Scotland and Northern Ireland may receive rain early the following week. Very dry areas in southern England may not see more meaningful rainfall until later in the week.

Courtney Gartshore, 28, was sentenced to six years in prison after being convicted of culpable homicide in the death of her three-month-old daughter, Dahlia-Rose, in Peterhead, Scotland, in September 2023. The baby suffered burns across 18% of her body after being exposed to sustained heat from a hairdryer. Gartshore had been drinking and had taken mephedrone while solely responsible for the infant. A jury rejected the defence argument that the baby may have died before the burns were inflicted, returning a guilty verdict after just over an hour. Police described the case as deeply disturbing.

ECMWF model data suggests the UK could experience a sharp cooling later in August 2026 after temperatures reach as high as 38C during the fifth expected heatwave of the year. Forecasts indicate daytime temperatures below 10C in parts of 63 counties, with especially low readings possible in northern Scotland, while the BBC expects more rain, showers and thunderstorms as high pressure recedes. Warmer and drier conditions may return later, particularly in southern and eastern areas.

An explosion at a company on Moezelweg in Rotterdam’s Europoort killed at least one person and injured several others. Six ambulances, a trauma helicopter and fire crews responded, while several injured people were taken to hospital. A maintenance crew had reportedly been disconnecting pipelines when something went wrong, but authorities are investigating. The incident followed a major power outage, a fire at a high-voltage substation and the precautionary shutdown of ExxonMobil’s refinery.

Pero's footbridge over St Augustine's Reach in Bristol harbour was closed after witnesses reported hearing a crack and seeing part of the bridge descend into the water. No injuries were reported, and barriers were installed while Bristol City Council and harbour staff inspected the structure. Witnesses speculated that a failed hydraulic system may have caused the incident, but the council had not confirmed the cause. The bridge, opened in 1999 and named after enslaved Bristol resident Pero Jones, had previously been associated with the removal of large numbers of padlocks.

Mohammad Hassan, a 23-year-old student police officer with Greater Manchester Police, appeared at Stockport Magistrates’ Court charged with oral rape, kidnapping, strangulation, sexual assault, theft of a mobile phone and dangerous driving. The alleged incident involved a woman in her 20s and reportedly ended with a police pursuit on the M62 in West Yorkshire. Hassan, who has been suspended, entered no pleas and was remanded in custody for a further hearing at Manchester Crown Court on 15 September. Greater Manchester Police said the alleged victim is receiving specialist support and that the investigation will proceed without interference.

Sixteen-year-old British cheerleader Abbie Lainton from Swindon died after a tourist boat caught fire and exploded off Bayahibe Beach in the Dominican Republic on July 27, 2026. Her two siblings were also injured, while several other passengers suffered burns, cuts and broken bones. Authorities launched an investigation, but the cause of the explosion remained unclear. A GoFundMe appeal was raising money to support Abbie’s family, while her former school and cheerleading club issued tributes.

Weather models indicate that Thursday could be the hottest day of 2026 in the UK, with temperatures potentially reaching 39C. The Met Office has issued an amber extreme heat warning, while the current annual record is 37.7C in Lingwood, Norfolk. Forecasts suggest that 12 English counties could reach at least 38C, with the Midlands, southern England and parts of Wales also experiencing severe heat, while Scotland and Northern Ireland remain cooler.

Amber heat health alerts are in effect across most of England from 11 to 14 August, with temperatures expected to reach at least 36C on Thursday. The UKHSA warns of likely pressure on health and social care services, including increased deaths among older people and those with existing health conditions, as well as greater risks from overheating, drowning and disrupted services. The heatwave follows an exceptionally dry summer: half of England and all of Wales are already in drought, hosepipe bans affect 23 million customers, and further drought declarations are expected. Wildfires, low water supplies and crop and livestock concerns are worsening, while recent heatwaves have contributed to more than 2,800 excess deaths. Rain forecast for the weekend is expected to be insufficient to address the wider rainfall deficit.

The Met Office forecasts a return of heatwave conditions across parts of the UK next week, with temperatures rising from around 30C over the weekend to 34C on Wednesday. East Anglia and south-east England could reach 36C on Thursday as high pressure and a southerly airflow develop. Increasing humidity may make conditions uncomfortable, particularly overnight. Yellow heat-health alerts have been issued for several English regions from Saturday to Tuesday, warning of minor impacts on health and social care services.

The Met Office forecasts temperatures above 30°C in southern areas of the UK this weekend, while weather models suggest highs of up to 37°C in southern England next Wednesday and temperatures of 35–36°C on Thursday and Friday. The heat is expected to be most intense in southern and eastern England, with parts of Wales also becoming very warm, while Scotland and Northern Ireland remain cooler. The Met Office and BBC both expect temperatures to stay above average next week, although thundery or frontal conditions may affect southern and eastern areas.

Weather models indicate that temperatures in parts of the UK could exceed 37C next week, potentially surpassing the 2026 high of 37.7C recorded in Lingwood, Norfolk. Western and southeastern England are forecast to be most affected, with eight counties potentially reaching at least 37C. The Met Office expects above-average temperatures, especially in southern areas, while warning that thundery conditions and variable rainfall may also occur.

The Met Office extended and brought forward a yellow thunderstorm warning for Northern Ireland, covering 9:15 a.m. to 9 p.m. The warning applies to Counties Antrim, Armagh, Down, Fermanagh, Londonderry and Tyrone, with risks including intense rainfall, flash flooding, hail, lightning, power cuts and travel disruption. Up to 30mm of rain could fall in two hours, and the Met Office advised residents to prepare flood and emergency kits, plan for power cuts and seek enclosed shelter during lightning.

Weather models indicate a possible four-day heatwave across the UK next week, with temperatures potentially exceeding 30C from Wednesday through Saturday and reaching 34C in parts of England. Fifteen English counties are identified as possible locations for 34C or higher temperatures. The Met Office expects above-average temperatures, particularly in southern areas, but says exceptional heat is unlikely and warns of possible thundery periods in the south.

The Met Office has issued a yellow thunderstorm warning for Northern Ireland from midday to 9pm on Tuesday, covering Counties Antrim, Armagh, Down, Fermanagh, Londonderry and Tyrone. Up to 30mm of rain could fall within two hours, accompanied by hail, strong winds, flash flooding and lightning. The agency warns of possible flooding to homes and businesses, travel disruption, structural damage and short-term power cuts, advising residents in vulnerable areas to prepare flood plans, emergency kits, torches, batteries and phone power packs.

Weather models suggest the UK could experience a fifth heatwave in 2026, with temperatures potentially reaching 35C or higher across 11 English counties around August 11–13. The Midlands, south-east and East Anglia are forecast to be among the hottest areas, while parts of Wales and Yorkshire could also see temperatures above 31C. The Met Office expects generally changeable weather, with rain and showers alongside possible very warm, hot and humid spells, particularly in southern England.

Weather modelling suggests the UK could experience a fifth heatwave of 2026 from August 9 to 11, with temperatures potentially reaching 34C around London and 32C or higher across 15 English counties. The Met Office expects temperatures to be closer to average in the short term, while warning of possible warmer periods, heavy rain and strong winds later in the forecast period.

Weather models indicate a possible two-day cold spell across the UK next Tuesday and Wednesday following the current heatwave. Forecast highs could fall to 6C in northern Scotland, with temperatures below 10C in 22 counties across Scotland, northern England and Northern Ireland. The Met Office expects changeable conditions, with possible heavy rain and strong winds as low pressure moves near or across the UK, followed by potentially more settled weather toward the end of the first week of August.

Temperatures in parts of eastern and south-eastern England could reach 36C, with 11 English counties forecast to reach at least 35C. The Met Office says the heatwave will be short-lived and limited in geographic scope, with temperatures expected to return closer to seasonal averages by Friday, although southern areas may remain somewhat warmer.

Gatwick Airport’s North and South terminals lost running water after an issue at SES Water’s Bough Beech Water Treatment Works, leaving toilets unusable and forcing bars and restaurants to close. Bottled water was distributed to passengers and staff, while SES Water delivered supplies to vulnerable customers and worked to restore service. Flights were unaffected, but the duration of the disruption remained unclear.

Two RAF Typhoon fighter jets were scrambled from RAF Coningsby to escort Qatar Airways flight QR23 after radio contact was lost and the aircraft caused concern to civil authorities during its approach to Manchester. The plane landed safely, and Greater Manchester Police determined that the reported threat was a hoax. A 14-year-old boy from the Bolton area, who was not on the flight, has been identified and is assisting officers with their investigation.

A single-engine Tecnam light aircraft crashed into a house in Ganderkesee, Lower Saxony, killing at least one man and leaving police searching for another possible occupant. The family living in the house was not home, and no other injuries were reported. Authorities warned the building could collapse, suspended local air traffic, cut power to the street and deployed drones and emergency crews. The cause of the crash remains unknown.

Weather models indicate temperatures could reach 37C in parts of England next week, with seven counties—Staffordshire, Shropshire, Worcestershire, Gloucestershire, Warwickshire, Oxfordshire and Berkshire—identified as potential hotspots. The Met Office expects above-normal temperatures as July ends and August begins, with the possibility of another very warm period, although showers and changeable conditions may affect some areas, particularly in the northwest.

Forecast models indicate another UK heatwave in early August, with temperatures potentially reaching 38–39C across eastern and southeastern England. Several counties may exceed the June peak of 37.7C, with up to 11 consecutive days above 30C suggested by GFS data. The Met Office expects above‑average temperatures for the rest of July and notes the possibility of further heatwaves later in August, with near‑30C conditions likely by the end of this week.

Police continue to investigate the death of former MP and MEP Ann Widdecombe, who was found with serious injuries at her Devon home on July 9. A 28-year-old man remains in custody after being arrested on suspicion of murder and later on terrorism-related charges. Counter-terrorism police are leading the inquiry, and an inquest is scheduled to open in Exeter. The initial seven-day detention period for the suspect is due to expire Monday evening.

Forecast models indicate that parts of England could reach 38C on July 29, potentially marking the hottest day of the year. The GFS model shows temperatures rising steadily from July 27 through July 29, with widespread heat across western, central and eastern England. Up to 15 counties may experience extreme highs. The Met Office reports a 13‑day streak of temperatures above 30C but notes uncertainty about heatwave duration beyond the next ten days, although above‑average conditions are likely in southern regions.

Forecasts indicate temperatures in Spain, France and Italy could exceed seasonal averages next week, with southern Spain potentially reaching a record 48C. Andalusia, Catalonia, Sicily and several other regions face severe heat alerts following recent deadly wildfires in Spain. Experts warn Europe may soon see temperatures surpassing 50C due to the influence of an intensifying El Niño.

A volunteer at a Salvation Army charity shop in Norwich discovered an original signed David Hockney print hidden inside a donated copy of Paper Pools, leading to an online auction where it sold for £41,160. The buyer expressed admiration for Hockney’s work and appreciation for supporting the charity. Staff highlighted the significance of the find and the role of volunteers, while Hockney’s legacy as a prominent British artist was noted.

Armed officers responded to City Road in Walton, Liverpool, after reports of an argument involving three men, one allegedly holding an imitation firearm. Police detained a 48‑year‑old suspect and recovered the replica weapon, while searches continue for two others involved. No injuries were reported, and authorities say there is no ongoing public threat. Chief Inspector Andy Foster urged the public to share information to help address gun-related crime.

Forecast models indicate another UK heatwave next week, with temperatures potentially reaching 36C across southern and central England and at least 16 counties expected to hit 35C or higher. After a brief cooldown over the weekend that ends the current heatwave, temperatures are projected to rise above seasonal norms again, with the hottest conditions developing Sunday and Monday. The Met Office expects largely dry conditions and a return to above-average temperatures in the days ahead.

Kiran Kaur was jailed for three years at Southampton Crown Court for assisting her son, Vickrum Digwa, by removing the knife used to murder student Henry Nowak. The judge said her actions helped conceal the crime as police arrived. Prosecutors argued the missing weapon hindered the investigation, while the defence claimed her involvement was a panicked response based on her son's lies. Henry Nowak’s family expressed disappointment with the sentence and renewed calls for continued investigation and government action.

A man identified as Daniel Sean James is accused of breaking into a home in Hayes, west London, fatally stabbing 24-year-old Kirandeep Kaur as she slept beside her husband and infant child, and injuring another man shortly beforehand. James allegedly fled by jumping from a window and was detained nearby with broken ankles. He is charged with murder, attempted murder and possession of a blade, appeared via videolink at the Old Bailey, and is scheduled for a plea hearing on October 1 with a trial set for April.

Weather models indicate that England and Wales could experience a fourth heatwave of 2026, with temperatures forecast to rise above 30C again next week after a brief cooldown. GFS projections show potential highs of 34C or more across 17 English counties, with southern and central areas expected to be particularly hot. The Met Office anticipates a temporary drop in temperatures over the weekend before conditions turn very warm again, with a risk of thunderstorms toward the end of next week.

Police continue to search for Emmanuel Sakyi, who was convicted in absentia of causing the death of his seven‑month‑old daughter in a head‑on collision while driving more than twice over the legal alcohol limit. Crimestoppers has offered a reward of up to £7,500 for information leading to his arrest, urging the public to come forward anonymously. Authorities advise that anyone who sees Sakyi should not approach him and should contact emergency services immediately.

Forecasters expect the UK’s third heatwave of 2026 to ease by the weekend as high pressure shifts northwest, allowing cooler air to circulate. Temperatures are projected to fall from the low 30s to the mid-to-high 20s, with southern areas remaining warmest. BBC forecasts also indicate declining temperatures along with possible light rain in northern and eastern regions.

Bodybuilder Mailson Araújo died suddenly at home in Alagoinhas, Brazil after feeling unwell following a workout. Despite immediate CPR attempts by his mother and emergency responders, he was pronounced dead, with the cause still unconfirmed. The 35‑year‑old professional competitor, set to perform at Musclecontest Brazil 2026, had recently shared training content online. Tributes from the bodybuilding community highlighted his achievements and influence as he was laid to rest in Alagoinhas.

Advanced forecasting models indicate the current UK heatwave will ease over the weekend, with temperatures expected to fall sharply, reaching as low as 6C in parts of Scotland and 7C in northern England. Southern regions will see cooler conditions too, with midday temperatures around 17C. Temperature anomaly maps show much of the country turning below seasonal averages, with 27 counties in Scotland and northern England predicted to drop below 10C. The Met Office forecasts a gradual decline in heat from Saturday, with high pressure maintaining generally dry conditions but cooler air arriving from the North Atlantic.

Forecasts indicate the UK heatwave, with temperatures peaking at 36C, will give way to a sharp cooldown, with some areas of Scotland expected to drop to 4C on July 19. Weather models show most of the UK falling into single digits that morning, with daytime highs in the mid-teens. Temperature anomaly maps point to conditions well below seasonal averages, affecting 81 counties across the UK. The Met Office notes continued high temperatures in the short term, with potential thunderstorms, before cooler conditions develop.

Anglian Water imposed a hosepipe ban affecting more than five million customers in eastern England as the UK endures a third heatwave with temperatures reaching up to 36C. Residents are barred from using hosepipes for gardening, car washing or filling paddling pools starting Saturday, with officials urging immediate compliance. Southern Water and Cambridge Water have also introduced bans, with Cambridge citing record heat, a sharp rise in water use and low rainfall as driving factors behind its first restriction in 30 years.

Iran accuses the United States of striking the perimeter of the Bushehr nuclear power plant as US forces conduct widespread attacks on Iranian military targets. Donald Trump warns of intensified retaliation while Iran responds with missile strikes on Bahrain, Kuwait and Qatar. Shipping traffic through the Strait of Hormuz drops sharply as regional tensions escalate. Iranian leaders issue threats, and multiple countries comment on the conflict’s risks to global stability. Casualty reports, disrupted infrastructure and ongoing military actions underscore the volatility of the widening confrontation.

Forecasts indicate UK temperatures will peak on Friday with highs of 36C across seven counties in England, while northern regions could reach 33C. Anomaly maps show temperatures well above seasonal averages, with mostly dry and sunny conditions expected despite some rain in the northwest. The heatwave is set to ease gradually next week, though temperatures will remain above average as high pressure shifts northwards.

A woman discovered through a Google search that her boyfriend Louis Martin had concealed his identity and was a convicted rapist, prompting her to end the relationship. Martin reacted with persistent harassment, threats, and physical assault, including an attack witnessed by her daughter. His behaviour escalated over several weeks until his arrest in May. With prior convictions for rape, coercive behaviour, and repeated breaches of notification requirements, Martin pleaded guilty to controlling behaviour, assault, and further non-compliance. He received a 27‑month prison sentence and a 10‑year restraining order.

Forecasters predict UK temperatures could reach 35C this week before a significant cooldown later in July. ECMWF models indicate temperatures may fall below 10C across 25 counties in Scotland and northern England, with lows of 7C possible in parts of Scotland. The Met Office expects hot, sunny conditions this week across much of England and Wales, while BBC Weather notes a risk of thundery showers and cooler east coast conditions over the weekend.

A 22‑year‑old neo‑Nazi, Alfie Coleman, was jailed for 13 and a half years after being convicted at the Old Bailey of preparing terrorist acts. MI5 undercover officers intercepted him as he attempted to buy a handgun and ammunition following months of activity in far‑right online groups. Searches of his home uncovered extremist materials, weapons and detailed plans for potential attacks, including targeting a mosque and high‑profile figures. The court heard he had been radicalised from a young age and maintained deeply rooted extremist beliefs. The judge cited his age, vulnerabilities and lack of prior convictions in declining a life sentence, while counter‑terrorism officials highlighted the role of online radicalisation in his case.

Donald Trump ordered Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent to halt all US trade with Spain during a press appearance at the NATO summit in Ankara, criticizing Spain’s contributions to the alliance. He also declared the ceasefire with Iran over following renewed Middle East strikes. NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte countered by affirming continued US commitment to the alliance and stressed expectations for increased defense spending among European members. Trump reiterated grievances about NATO allies, including disputes over access to UK bases and his demand for US control of Greenland.

Weather modelling indicates the UK will face at least 15 more days of heatwave conditions, with temperatures expected to exceed 35C in 23 counties across England and Wales. Forecasts suggest peaks of 36C to 37C in mid-July, with widespread temperatures above seasonal averages. The Met Office notes highs in the mid-30s later in the week, with warm nights in urban areas and elevated UV levels prompting standard heat precautions.

A makeshift bomb detonated at the entrance of a Monaco apartment building, seriously injuring Ukrainian businessman Vadim Ermolaev, a woman, and a 13-year-old boy. Authorities report the family was specifically targeted, with CCTV capturing a suspect leaving a backpack containing the explosive before fleeing toward France. The woman suffered catastrophic injuries and remains in critical condition. Monaco and French police have launched an attempted‑murder investigation, ruling out terrorism, while security measures in the principality have been heightened. Investigators are examining possible criminal motives, including alleged links to large-scale fraud involving associates of the Ermolaev family.

An early-morning uprising at the Bertie-Martin Regional Detention Center in Windsor, North Carolina saw inmates overpower staff, take two guards captive and prompt a response from local, state and federal authorities. Negotiations secured the release of the guards and most inmates before law enforcement retook control of the facility. The FBI and state investigators later confirmed all staff and inmates were accounted for, injuries were treated and prisoners were relocated while damage is assessed. Authorities have not yet disclosed what caused the takeover or why only three guards were on duty at the time.

Police arrested a 16‑year‑old in Birmingham on suspicion of conspiracy to commit burglary and located another wanted man hiding in a wardrobe, who then escaped while being detained. A helicopter‑assisted search located the fugitive in a camper van, leading to the arrest of an 18‑year‑old on suspicion of violent disorder and escape from lawful custody. Both individuals remain in police custody for questioning.

A 35-year-old Scottish man, Stefan Sivers, who travelled to Ukraine late last year to fight against Russia, is missing and feared dead in the Kharkiv region. The UK Foreign Office confirmed his disappearance and reiterated warnings against travelling to Ukraine, noting its limited ability to assist British nationals involved in the conflict. Sivers, who had publicly expressed support for Ukraine online, had no known military background. British nationals joining Ukrainian forces must now commit to at least six months of service, with restricted ability to leave during that period.

Forecast models indicate the UK could see record-breaking temperatures next week, with the GFS model suggesting highs of 40C to 41C across parts of England. Seventeen counties may reach at least 40C, while the Met Office warns that heatwave conditions are increasingly likely though extreme temperatures remain a lower-probability outcome. Conditions are expected to peak early in the week before cooling slightly by Wednesday.

A man identified as Kevin Kerjean has been charged with murdering his two‑year‑old daughter in Surrey and faces additional counts of rape and sexual assault of a child under 13. He appeared in court and was remanded ahead of a pre‑trial hearing in September, with a trial set for January. Surrey Police confirmed the victim’s identity and stated the incident occurred within a family setting, while dismissing online claims linking the case to an asylum‑seeker residence. Authorities outlined Kerjean’s immigration status, and police continue investigating with a sustained presence in the area.

Resident doctors in England have voted to accept a government offer that includes an average 6.6% pay increase and improved working conditions, ending a year of strikes. The agreement introduces standard contract terms for all locally employed doctors, adds 4,500 specialty training places over three years and raises resident doctor pay more than 35% compared with four years ago. Health Secretary James Murray welcomed the deal as a step toward restoring stability in the NHS, while the BMA had previously warned that rejecting it would escalate strike action.

A skydiving plane crashed shortly after takeoff in Tomblaine near Nancy, killing all 11 people onboard, including instructors, skydivers and the pilot. Emergency services launched a large-scale response as authorities activated an operations centre and began an investigation. Local officials confirmed the victims included first-time skydivers, with some reported to be nurses. The aircraft, identified as a German-registered Pilatus commonly used for parachuting, went down near a cemetery without causing additional damage. French ministers and regional authorities expressed condolences and coordinated support for victims' families while witness statements and forensic work commenced.

Forecast models indicate a severe heatwave may develop across England beginning July 8, with temperatures potentially reaching 41C and surpassing previous UK records. The GFS weather model shows widespread highs over 30C across central and southern regions, with 18 counties possibly reaching 40C. Conditions may ease slightly after July 12 but remain above seasonal averages. The Met Office notes an elevated likelihood of hotter-than-normal weather with occasional thundery showers into late July.

A helicopter owned by Aramco crashed in Saudi Arabia, killing all 14 Saudi nationals on board, with authorities providing no cause yet. The incident coincides with wider disruption to oil operations due to the Iran conflict, prompting Aramco to reroute exports. A separate skydiving plane crash in France killed 11 people, with local officials confirming it crashed shortly after takeoff and caused no additional damage, as emergency services responded and supported victims' families.

A 73-year-old disabled man says he was asked to leave an Asda store in Widnes after refusing to provide personal details to use a mobility scooter. He claims security guards surrounded him and that staff treated him poorly, contrasting the experience with his local Asda where he faces no such issues. Asda says requesting details is standard policy intended for customer safety and has written to him explaining the policy.

A 15-year-old boy died after getting into difficulty in the water near Cowbury Reservoir in Stalybridge, prompting a multi-agency emergency response. Police confirmed no suspicious circumstances and notified the family following formal identification. Authorities issued a warning urging the public to avoid swimming in open water during hot weather. The Mirror highlighted its Save Lives For Sam campaign calling for improved water safety measures across the UK.

A North American Rockwell OV-10 Bronco suffered a landing gear failure during a test flight in Leszno, Poland, causing it to crash-land and break apart, though the pilot escaped with minor injuries. Fire crews secured the area with foam as a precaution, and no fire occurred. The incident shortened the airfield’s usable runway length, limiting some airshow performances. Authorities will investigate the cause.

A prolonged UK heatwave led East Midlands Ambulance Service to declare a critical incident after a sharp rise in demand and mounting pressure across the NHS. The service prioritised life‑threatening emergencies, coordinated with hospitals to speed patient handovers, and urged the public to use alternative care options for non‑urgent issues. Authorities warned that continued extreme temperatures risk further strain on healthcare services and encouraged responsible behaviour to reduce avoidable harm.

Mark Craig received a seven‑and‑a‑half‑year prison sentence at Newcastle Crown Court after admitting to encouraging the rape of a baby and an eight‑year‑old, as well as creating and distributing indecent images. He had sent explicit messages and media to an undercover police officer he believed had access to children. The North East Regional Organised Crime Unit led the investigation, with officials emphasising ongoing efforts to target online offenders and safeguard children.

Forecasting models indicate another heatwave in early July could push temperatures up to 38C across 17 counties in England, following record-high June temperatures. The Met Office expects a brief cooldown before heat returns, with central and southern regions projected to experience the most intense temperatures. Maps also show widespread anomalies well above seasonal averages, while the extended outlook notes a likelihood of hot conditions with possible thundery showers as high pressure dominates.

Swedish food chain Holy Greens will open its first UK restaurant in London’s Canary Wharf, marking the start of a wider expansion across the city. Known for health‑focused, sustainability‑driven meals, the company plans further openings and has begun recruiting staff. CEO Sabrina Jaeger said the launch follows two years of preparation involving market research and operational refinement. Founded by David Egonson and Nebojsa Pavicevic and backed by Equip Capital, Holy Greens views the London move as the first step in a broader international growth strategy.