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Flaminia Luck

Criminal Justice & Courts · United Kingdom
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LBC Aug 2026
Prince Harry, Elton John and co-claimants ordered to pay initial £9.5m legal bill after losing case against Daily Mail publisher
Prince Harry, Elton John and five other claimants must pay Associated Newspapers Limited £9,544,355 by August 28 as an initial contribution toward the publisher’s legal costs after Mr Justice Nicklin dismissed their unlawful information-gathering claims. The judge ordered costs to be assessed on an indemnity basis but declined to cap them, while warning that ANL’s total claim of more than £34 million appeared excessive, exceptionally high and largely unexplained. Further hearings will determine the final amount.
LBC Aug 2026
Founder of app that alerts you to 'Pervert Glasses' explains why he’s fighting back against surveillance
Sociologist Yves Jeanrenaud, founder of the free Nearby Glasses app, says covert recording by smart glasses could disproportionately harm women, children and other vulnerable people. The app scans for Bluetooth signals associated with compatible devices and displays a warning, although it cannot determine whether a camera is actively recording or prevent filming. Jeanrenaud argues that secret recording, algorithmic amplification and the circulation of humiliating content could normalize surveillance and increase social distrust. Meta says its glasses include a non-disableable capture light, disable cameras when tampering is detected, and that it removes harassing content and acts against offending accounts.
LBC Aug 2026
Stag Shot Dead After Attacking Man Having Picnic in Richmond Park
A stag in Richmond Park was put down after attacking a man in his 60s who was having a picnic near Roehampton Gate. The man suffered non-life-threatening chest injuries and was taken to hospital. The Royal Parks said the animal had become a danger to visitors, warning that deer are wild animals that should not be fed, approached or touched. Visitors are advised to keep at least 50 metres away, and feeding deer is illegal.
LBC Aug 2026
More than £100,000 raised for family of former Cambridge professor Jason Arday
More than £100,000 has been raised through a GoFundMe campaign for the family of former Cambridge sociology of education professor Jason Arday, who was found dead at his home in Battersea after resigning amid plagiarism allegations. The fundraiser, launched by Windrush campaigner Patrick Vernon, has received more than 3,000 donations. Arday's family thanked supporters and asked for privacy, while Stand Up To Racism announced a London vigil and blamed a racist campaign of media and political harassment for his death. Prime Minister Andy Burnham called the death a tragedy and urged reflection, while Simon Baron-Cohen said Arday had been unable to cope with the loss of his career and reputation.
LBC Aug 2026
Murder investigation launched as man, 55, dies after being bitten by dog during 'altercation'
A 55-year-old man died after being bitten by a dog during an altercation near a disused railway line in Calder Grove, Wakefield. Police arrested another 55-year-old man on suspicion of murder and of owning a dangerously out-of-control dog that caused injury. A German Shepherd believed to be involved was seized, while detectives appealed for two women who assisted the injured man, including one named Sophie, and for witnesses to the altercation to come forward.
LBC Aug 2026
“Suspicious activity” forces medal ceremonies at European Athletics Championships in Birmingham to be postponed
Medal ceremonies at the European Athletics Championships in Birmingham were postponed after police received concerns about a man found in the Alexander Stadium with incorrect accreditation. The man, who is in his 30s, was arrested on suspicion of fraud. Security measures temporarily suspended transport for athletes, staff and spectators, leaving thousands waiting for shuttle buses for up to two hours. West Midlands Police said there was no immediate risk to the public, while organisers apologised for the delays and said transport returned to normal in the early hours. Further information about rescheduling the ceremonies was promised.
LBC Aug 2026
Making changes to student loan repayments 'costs a lot of money,' warns Skills Minister
A record 262,820 UK 18-year-olds have been accepted onto university or college courses, up 3% from the same point last year. Skills Minister Baroness Jacqui Smith said student-loan repayments under the Plan 5 system are already capped at inflation and that Plan 2 interest rates have been capped at 6% for the coming year. Responding to a Conservative proposal to link interest to the Retail Price Index, she said further changes would be expensive but that the government would examine ways to make repayments manageable. Smith also encouraged students to consider apprenticeships and technical education alongside university, while emphasizing the need for stronger routes from age 14.
LBC Aug 2026
Family 'desperate' for answers after 'beloved' grandmother killed in her own home
Rose Johnston, 68, was found dead with a blunt-force head injury at her home in Dovecot, Liverpool, in October 2025. Her family has appealed for information on what would have been her 69th birthday, saying they remain desperate for answers. Merseyside Police believe people in the local community may have information that could help identify her killer. A 37-year-old man arrested on suspicion of murder in May remains on conditional bail, while Crimestoppers is offering a reward of up to £20,000 for information leading to an arrest.
LBC Aug 2026
In pictures: Skies go dark as solar eclipse brings millions across the world to standstill
Millions of people gathered across the United Kingdom and Europe to observe a major solar eclipse, with more than 90% of the Sun obscured above UK skies—the fullest eclipse visible there for 54 years. Viewing sites, observatories, national parks and shops reported high demand for protective eclipse glasses, while expert commentary highlighted the event’s emotional impact. NASA’s indirect viewing guidance also contributed to a surge in colander sales, as the kitchen items can project the eclipse’s changing shadows safely.
LBC Aug 2026
Man rushed to hospital with gunshot wound arrested on suspicion of murder over fatal pub shooting
A 25-year-old man, believed to be a local bus driver, was shot dead on Willington Road in Clapham, south London, near The Landor pub. A 22-year-old man who later went to hospital with a gunshot wound was arrested on suspicion of murder and remains in hospital. Police have increased their presence, supported the victim’s family, and appealed for witnesses and information about the shooting.
LBC Aug 2026
Stalker who threatened to cut two of Britain’s leading judges 'into little pieces' detained in hospital indefinitely
Richard Kendal, 62, has been detained indefinitely in a mental health hospital after being found responsible for stalking and threatening senior judges Andrew McFarlane and Paul Goldspring, as well as legal adviser Elizabeth Hardy, and for breaching a protective order concerning his ex-wife Ruth Garner. The court heard that Kendal, who suffers from psychosis and a delusional disorder, believed judicial figures were involved in a conspiracy linked to his 2009 divorce. His conduct included abusive letters to judges, hundreds of threatening emails, antisemitic references, death threats and attempts to confront Judge Goldspring at Westminster Magistrates’ Court. A jury found him responsible for stalking involving fear of violence, racially aggravated stalking and breach of a non-molestation order. The judge ordered indefinite detention to protect the public, while Kendal’s barrister said he was not violent and would not have acted on the threats.
LBC Aug 2026
Asylum seeker who posed as teenager on Snapchat before grooming and raping girl, 13, in woodland jailed
Abdul Khan, believed to be 28, was sentenced at Nottingham Crown Court to nine and a half years in prison after being convicted of raping a 13-year-old girl twice and committing other child sexual offences. He had posed as a teenager on Snapchat, groomed the girl and met her at a Nottingham nature reserve. Khan, who arrived in the UK in 2015 and disputes his identity and age, is already serving a separate sentence for sexually communicating with another child. The judge said he had deliberately concealed his identity and that the victim had been profoundly affected. Khan faces automatic deportation to Afghanistan after serving two-thirds of his sentence and must register as a sex offender indefinitely.
LBC Aug 2026
Spain retaliates with border controls against Italy as row over Ceuta migrant influx deepens
Spain announced temporary border controls on flights and ships from Italy in retaliation for Italy’s suspension of Schengen free movement from Spain. The dispute follows an unprecedented influx of around 78,000 migrants into the Spanish enclave of Ceuta from Morocco, although Spain said more than 48,000 returned to Morocco within 48 hours. Italian authorities cited security, terrorism and further migration risks, while Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez called the breach a violation of Spain’s territorial integrity. The article also notes UK concerns about migrant crossings and Andy Burnham’s claim that crossings are down and removals are up.
LBC Aug 2026
Prison officer jailed after inappropriate relationship with drug dealer dubbed 'Latvian Pablo Escobar'
Prison officer Jahvine Kwamba was sentenced to eight months in prison after pleading guilty to two counts of misconduct in public office over an inappropriate relationship with inmate Roberts Sokolovs at HMP Fosse Way. She initiated more than 1,300 contacts with Sokolovs and exchanged thousands of Snapchat messages, while receiving more than £6,000 through payments involving his mother and sister. Sokolovs, a Latvian national imprisoned for involvement in the Jimmy Line county lines drug ring, was deported before being interviewed. His mother Zita Sokolova received a suspended sentence and his sister Venera a community order for helping transmit communications. The judge said the conduct undermined prison discipline and exposed Kwamba to blackmail and coercion, while acknowledging her remorse, youth and vulnerability.
LBC Aug 2026
Heathrow forced to close runway due to grassfire, causing delays and flight diversions
A grassfire near Heathrow Airport’s southern runway forced its temporary closure on 6 August 2026, destroying about one hectare of grassland and diverting at least 18 inbound flights. London Fire Brigade and Heathrow’s airport fire service brought the blaze under control within 30 minutes, and both runways later reopened, although some disruption remained. The report also notes a separate electrical failure affecting rail services across the Midlands and northern England, disrupting Avanti West Coast, East Midlands Railway, Northern, TransPennine Express and Transport for Wales.
LBC Aug 2026
Drive-by horror as Mexican influencer shot in head while livestreaming outside KFC
Mexican influencer César Gastélum was shot in the head while livestreaming outside a KFC in Culiacán, where rival Sinaloa cartel factions have fought for control since September 2024. Authorities are investigating whether his social media posts about a criminal faction prompted the attack, while President Claudia Sheinbaum called for the perpetrators and any mastermind to be arrested. The killing follows a broader pattern of influencer murders in Culiacán and echoes the 2025 livestream killing of beauty influencer Valeria Márquez in Jalisco.
LBC Aug 2026
Ambulance driver who caused the deaths of two pensioners by careless driving spared jail
Julie Ijere, 60, pleaded guilty to two counts of causing death by careless driving after the patient transport ambulance she was driving crossed the centre lines on the B1506 near Newmarket in December 2023 and collided with a Volkswagen Golf. Patient Anthony Dawbarn, 93, and the car’s driver, Jane Blampied, 70, died two days later. Ijere received a 20-month prison sentence suspended for 30 months, a five-year driving ban, 80 hours of unpaid work, rehabilitation requirements, and financial penalties. Police found no evidence of distraction, phone use or prescription medication impairing her driving, but the cause of the deviation remains unknown.
LBC Aug 2026
Three hospitalised and 23 injured after stampede and fire at festival in north London
Three people were taken to hospital and 23 received medical assistance after a crowd surge at Ghana Party in the Park in Copthall Playing Fields, Barnet, on 1 August 2026. A small fire near the entrance caused the gates to close temporarily; when they reopened, a crowd built up and surged. Police, firefighters, ambulance crews and London's Air Ambulance treated attendees, with those hospitalised reported to have non-life-threatening injuries. The festival was ended early, and organisers and police rejected speculation that a stabbing or deaths had occurred.
LBC Aug 2026
Tragedy as Teenage Girl Dies at Kendal Calling Festival
A 17-year-old girl died after suffering a medical episode at the Kendal Calling festival site in Lowther Deer Park, Cumbria, shortly after 2am on Sunday. Cumbria Constabulary said her family had been informed and was receiving specialist support, while officers appealed for witnesses who were near the Calling Out tent and Big Wheel. Festival security, medical teams and paramedics provided emergency care, and the festival said it was supporting the investigation.
LBC Aug 2026
Man, 26, Arrested Over Death of British Woman Found in Suitcase in Athens
A 26-year-old man has been arrested in Athens on suspicion of manslaughter, robbery and weapons offences following the discovery of Scottish woman Elisabeth Jane Ross’s body inside a suitcase in a derelict building in Kypseli on July 18. Police believe Ross had died five to seven days earlier and allege that someone subsequently used her phone to send messages in her name and her bank card to withdraw money. A replica pistol and knife were reportedly found at the suspect’s home. Greek, UK and US authorities are involved in the investigation, while the Foreign and Commonwealth Office and Police Scotland are supporting Ross’s family.
LBC Aug 2026
Scottish government announces more cash to help communities tackle flooding caused by climate change
The Scottish Government has launched a £15 million fund to help communities, local authorities and other groups improve resilience to climate-related flooding. Funding will support sustainable drainage, nature-based measures, coastal projects such as sand-dune replenishment, and upgrades to flood infrastructure. Montrose is highlighted as facing accelerating coastal erosion, while Public Health Scotland will create an interactive tool combining flood-risk and demographic data. A new advisory service will also help local authorities deliver major flood-protection schemes more efficiently.
LBC Aug 2026
Beach closed after large shark spotted in Channel
A beach at St Ouen's Bay in Jersey was temporarily closed after a large, dark grey shark estimated at 10–12 feet long was seen about 40 metres offshore. Authorities raised a red flag and prohibited swimming across the bay for approximately an hour while the area was inspected; the beach later reopened. The shark’s species was not identified.
LBC Jul 2026
Trump blasts Spain over migrant 'invasion' as 60,000 cross Moroccan border
Nearly 60,000 migrants reportedly crossed from Morocco into Spain's North African enclave of Ceuta in one day, with at least 57 deaths during the crossings and tens of thousands later returning to Morocco. Spain deployed military units as migrants arrived by sea and land. Donald Trump called the situation an invasion and catastrophe, while European Council President Ursula von der Leyen demanded an end to dangerous crossings, the dismantling of smuggling networks and swift returns. The UK government offered support, while Prime Minister Andy Burnham defended its own migration measures and Conservative politician Chris Philp warned that migrants reaching mainland Spain could attempt to cross the English Channel.
LBC Jul 2026
Pensioner, 78, killed in horror crash after lorry and car collide at busy junction
A 78-year-old woman died after her blue Honda Jazz collided with a green Enva HGV on the A92 near the Logie junction at Kilmany in Fife. Emergency responders pronounced her dead at the scene, and no other injuries were reported. Police Scotland appealed for witnesses and dashcam footage while the road was closed for inquiries before reopening around 6pm.
LBC Jul 2026
Second major wildfire breaks out in UK as eight crews and 60 firefighters battle huge field blaze
A grass fire near South End Road in Hornchurch, East London, burned around six hectares, prompting the deployment of eight fire engines and approximately 60 firefighters. No injuries were reported and the cause remains under investigation. The report also links the incident to a larger Suffolk heathland wildfire near Sizewell B nuclear power station, where a major incident was declared, though authorities said the plant faced no current risk. It includes fire-safety advice for responding to and preventing wildfires.
LBC Jul 2026
No further action to be taken against Polanski over Farage guillotine post, police confirm
The Metropolitan Police will take no further action against Green Party leader Zack Polanski over an Instagram image depicting a guillotine and referring to Nigel Farage, concluding that the criminal threshold was not met. Polanski said the image was shared inadvertently, removed it, and does not support its message. Farage and Reform UK condemned the post and called for Polanski's arrest. Police recorded a potential crime relating to the person wearing the T-shirt and referred that matter to Avon and Somerset Police. The incident comes amid wider concerns about threats and security arrangements for UK politicians.
LBC Jul 2026
Tragedy as boy, 12, dies after falling from roof of barn in County Durham
A 12-year-old boy, Jaxon Robert Hubery of Bishop Auckland, died after falling from the roof of a barn at Woodhouses near Bishop Auckland on July 24. He was treated at Newcastle’s Royal Victoria Infirmary but died from his injuries several days later. His family thanked supporters and urged parents to keep children away from the area, while Durham Police and the Health and Safety Executive investigate the circumstances.
LBC Jul 2026
Jet-ski and Rolexes among items seized by police in drugs bust
Merseyside Police seized a Sea-Doo jet ski, two Rolex watches, an e-bike, cash, gaming equipment, two iPhones and four vehicles during a drug-supply investigation in Speke, Liverpool. A 37-year-old man and a 29-year-old woman were arrested on suspicion of possessing criminal property and intending to supply cannabis, then released on conditional bail. Police said the high-value goods were suspected of having been bought with criminal proceeds and pledged to continue targeted operations against drug-related crime.
LBC Jul 2026
“I thought he was perfect - until I found out he was wearing Meta Glasses”: Woman’s horror date sparks safety and surveillance fears
A woman identified as Kelly told LBC that discovering her date was wearing Meta smart glasses destroyed her trust because she could not be certain whether he was recording her. Critics and abuse-prevention experts warn that the glasses’ discreet design could facilitate non-consensual filming, harassment, stalking and sexual abuse, particularly against women and girls, while also normalizing surveillance. Meta is promoting the glasses as fashionable and useful, including through a collaboration with Kylie Jenner, and says a permanently visible recording light and camera-disabling safeguards protect bystanders. Experts argue these measures are insufficient and call for stronger privacy protections, regulation and consent standards before such devices become more widespread.
LBC Jul 2026
Domestic abuse reached record high in UK during 2026 World Cup
Police recorded 2,322 football-related incidents in England and Wales during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, including 384 domestic abuse incidents—the highest figure recorded for a comparable tournament. Domestic abuse reports rose 9% from Euro 2024 and 223% from the 2022 World Cup. Chief Constable Mark Roberts attributed much of the violence to alcohol and drugs and said late extensions to pub licensing hours exacerbated the problem, leaving police forces insufficient time to prepare. He called for licensing policies to be set out and consulted on well in advance, while also highlighting concerns about rape incidents and spiking allegations at licensed premises.
LBC Jul 2026
More than 100 firefighters tackle blaze at industrial unit after explosion heard by local residents
More than 100 firefighters are responding to a large industrial unit fire on Southend Road between East Hanningfield and Rettendon in Essex, after residents reported hearing an explosion and feeling their windows rattle. Footage showed an orange fireball and thick black smoke. The East of England Ambulance Service declared a critical incident and sent its hazardous area response team, but no injuries had been confirmed. Residents were advised to avoid the area and keep windows and doors closed.
LBC Jul 2026
Four men in their 20s die after car crashes into lamppost in Merseyside
Four men aged 23, 24 and 26 died after a black Seat Cupra collided with a lamppost on Liverpool Road in Huyton early on 24 July 2026. A 27-year-old passenger was taken to hospital in stable condition. Merseyside Police have established a scene, closed nearby roads and appealed for witnesses or doorbell footage to help determine how the crash occurred.
LBC Jul 2026
Chris Brown pleads guilty to affray after bottle attack in London nightclub - as mugshot of singer released
R&B singer Chris Brown pleaded guilty to affray at Southwark Crown Court over a 2023 attack at the Tape nightclub in Mayfair, where he struck former friend Abraham Diaw twice with a bottle. Charges of assault occasioning actual bodily harm, possessing an offensive weapon and attempting to cause grievous bodily harm were dropped. Brown’s vocal coach, Omololu Akinlolu, also pleaded guilty to affray. Both men will be sentenced on October 26. Brown was released on bail, having previously been required to pay a £5 million security fee and surrender his passport during international travel.
LBC Jul 2026
Warning to small pet owners amid UK heatwave - as RSPCA shares tips on how to keep furry friends cool
High temperatures in the UK have led to several small pet deaths, prompting Blue Cross and the RSPCA to urge owners to take precautions. A chinchilla, rabbit and guinea pig were taken in by the charity after their companions died during the heatwave. Guidance includes providing shade, cool water, ventilation and frozen bottles, as well as checking for flystrike and monitoring signs of heat stress. Charities emphasise quick deterioration in heat and encourage immediate veterinary advice if needed.
LBC Jul 2026
'Disgrace to football' Shocking moment bitter Argentina players turn their backs on Spain's World Cup trophy lift
Argentina’s 1-0 loss to Spain in the World Cup final sparked controversy as several Argentine players turned their backs during Spain’s trophy lift and engaged in clashes after the match. Leandro Paredes faces disciplinary action for violent conduct, while pundits including Alan Shearer and Wayne Rooney condemned Argentina’s behaviour as poor sportsmanship. Donald Trump and Gianni Infantino oversaw the medal ceremony, and Trump praised the tournament’s success. Kylian Mbappe secured the Golden Boot, with Jude Bellingham and Erling Haaland close behind in the standings.
LBC Jul 2026
Firefighters spend third day tackling Cairngorms wildfire
Fire crews continue to battle a large wildfire in the Cairngorms for a third day, prompting evacuations of homes, businesses and campsites around Glenmore Forest Park. The blaze, which began near Ryvoan Bothy, expanded across roughly six kilometres, with multiple fire engines and specialist teams deployed and no casualties reported. Officials say the fire is contained, though conditions remain challenging amid a very high wildfire risk across parts of Scotland. The Scottish Government, emergency services and conservation groups continue coordinated efforts, while the public is urged to avoid the area and follow safety advice as hot, dry weather persists.
LBC Jul 2026
Kayaker, 19, who went missing off Northumberland coast presumed dead - as family pay tribute to 'much-loved son'
A 19-year-old kayaker, Michael Henry, is presumed dead after his kayak capsized near Boulmer on July 7. Despite extensive sea and coastal searches, Northumbria Police concluded the operation, stating he is believed to have died. His family paid tribute to him as a much‑loved outdoors enthusiast preparing to travel and attend university. Police expressed condolences and requested privacy for the family.
LBC Jul 2026
'We were shocked it worked' Anne Hathaway breaks silence on surprise 'buzzer beater' pregnancy at 43
Anne Hathaway discussed her surprise third pregnancy at age 43, describing it as a “buzzer‑beater” while appearing on Late Night with Seth Meyers. She revealed she had hidden the pregnancy during the Devil Wears Prada 2 press tour but has since shown her baby bump while promoting The Odyssey. Hathaway reflected on earlier fertility struggles and highlighted the widespread positive reaction to her pregnancy announcement. The article also notes progress on the upcoming Princess Diaries 3, directed by Adele Lim, who expressed excitement about continuing the franchise.
LBC Jul 2026
More French border guards deployed to UK checkpoints to prevent technology failures causing delays
France has increased the number of border guards at UK‑based checkpoints to prevent delays linked to the EU’s new biometric Entry/Exit System. The move follows UK concerns about repeated biometric scans and slow processing causing disruption at airports and Dover. UK Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander secured the agreement with her French counterpart, while the UK has committed more than £20 million to expand passport‑check booths and reduce congestion ahead of the summer travel peak.
LBC Jul 2026
Brendon McCullum sacked as England Test head coach
England removed Brendon McCullum as Test head coach following a series of poor results, including heavy Ashes defeats and a home loss to New Zealand, while retaining him as white‑ball coach. Ben Stokes’ retirement and disciplinary issues contributed to the decision as the team seeks a new leadership structure ahead of the next Ashes. ECB leaders praised McCullum’s impact, and several potential coaching candidates, including Justin Langer, Ricky Ponting and Andy Flower, are being considered.
LBC Jul 2026
Woman, 24, dead and man injured in double stabbing in west London
A 24‑year‑old woman was killed and a man in his 20s injured in a double stabbing at a property on Uxbridge Road in Hayes, west London. Police said the male victim’s additional injuries were likely caused by jumping from a window. A murder investigation is under way, and detectives do not believe there is a wider threat to the public. Officers appealed for witnesses and confirmed an increased police presence in the area.
LBC Jul 2026
Parts of UK at 'exceptional' risk of wildfires as heatwave continues, experts warn
Southern England and the Midlands face exceptional wildfire risk as a heatwave persists, with conditions expected to intensify across more regions in the coming days. Fire services have responded to multiple blazes amid prolonged hot, dry weather, while authorities warn that human activity often triggers wildfires. Record-breaking temperatures have been logged across the UK as heat health alerts remain in place, and several water-related deaths have occurred. Hosepipe bans have been issued in several areas as forecasters predict continued high temperatures with possible thunderstorms early next week.
LBC Jul 2026
Ann Widdecombe murder ‘not politically motivated’, say police - as man, 28, still in custody
Police state Ann Widdecombe’s killing is neither politically nor terrorism‑related, with detectives keeping an open mind about the motive while confirming no wider public threat. A 28‑year‑old man arrested in Rotherham remains in custody, while a previously arrested 26‑year‑old has been released with no further involvement. Authorities have received over 120 public reports and continue urging witnesses to come forward. Tributes from political figures, including Nigel Farage, highlight Widdecombe’s long political and media career. She was last expected to appear on a Channel 5 programme but did not respond to calls before her death.
LBC Jul 2026
'Lynchpin of a fair society' Andy Burnham to scrap plans to curb jury trials
Andy Burnham is preparing to remove plans from David Lammy’s Courts and Tribunals Bill that would reduce the number of jury trials, allowing the legislation to progress through Parliament. The proposal, introduced to speed up court proceedings amid growing backlogs, has drawn strong criticism from legal organisations and women’s advocacy groups, who argue it would undermine trust in the justice system and fail to address the root causes of delays. Burnham supports other justice reforms, including expanding the use of associate prosecutors, as concerns continue over severe delays in cases such as rape trials and the wider criminal court backlog.
LBC Jul 2026
Heartbreak as Antiques Roadshow star Theo Burrell dies aged just 39
Antiques Roadshow specialist Theo Burrell has died at 39 following a glioblastoma diagnosis in 2022. Her family shared that she passed away peacefully and praised her strength and advocacy for brain tumour awareness. Burrell continued working and reached major personal milestones despite her prognosis, becoming an active campaigner for improved funding, diagnostic times, and research. Brain Tumour Research paid tribute to her impact and determination, noting her role as a patron and public advocate.
LBC Jul 2026
Nigel Farage claims car was seen on Ann Widdecombe’s drive around time of murder - as he lays flowers near crime scene
Nigel Farage visited Dartmoor to lay flowers near the home of former MP Ann Widdecombe, who police believe was murdered around 12:30pm on July 8. He suggested a car was seen entering her driveway around the time of the attack and described the killing as premeditated, though he cautioned against speculation about motive. Police have released a man previously arrested on suspicion of murder and are continuing to investigate while keeping an open mind. Local residents expressed shock and anxiety as officers continue door‑to‑door inquiries, and tributes highlighted Widdecombe’s positive presence in the community.
LBC Jul 2026
Several injured in 'large disturbance' in Clacton-on-Sea
Police responded to a pre-dawn disturbance on Marine Parade West in Clacton-on-Sea where several people were found injured, including one with a serious head injury who remains in hospital. Investigators believe a car was involved but had left the scene before officers arrived. The Pier Gap area is closed, and authorities are appealing for witnesses and drivers with dashcam footage to assist the investigation.
LBC Jul 2026
Everything we know so far about the murder of Ann Widdecombe
Ann Widdecombe was found dead in her home in Haytor with serious injuries, prompting Devon and Cornwall Police to launch a murder investigation. A man initially arrested was later released with no further involvement. Police stated the case is not linked to terrorism or political motivation and continue to appeal for information. Widdecombe’s political and media career is outlined, and political figures including Nigel Farage, Keir Starmer and Kemi Badenoch expressed shock and called for unity following the killing.
LBC Jul 2026
‘You can't replace that sort of person’: Driver for Ann Widdecombe pays tribute to ‘superwoman’ who'll be 'sadly missed'
Ann Widdecombe’s driver, Peter Horrell, paid tribute to her following her death, describing her as a strong, direct and comical figure who enjoyed living alone in Dartmoor. He expressed shock upon learning her death was being treated as suspected murder. Police believe she was killed shortly after midday on Wednesday and have released a previously arrested man with no further action. Horrell said she will be greatly missed and praised her legacy as a distinctive and outspoken politician.
LBC Jul 2026
Ann Widdecombe's life in pictures: From Tory stalwart to Brexit buccaneer
Ann Widdecombe, a long-serving Conservative MP who later became a leading figure in the Brexit Party and Reform UK, has died at 78. Her career spanned senior government roles, outspoken political positions, a high-profile conversion to Catholicism, authorship of successful novels, and a widely noted appearance on Strictly Come Dancing. After returning to frontline politics during the Brexit campaign, she served as an MEP and continued media and party work until her death. She was found at her Dartmoor home with serious injuries, and police have launched a murder investigation.
LBC Jul 2026
Emergency services warn of 'extreme' wildfire risks as heatwave set to continue
A prolonged UK heatwave has pushed temperatures above 35C for a record six days in 2026, prompting emergency services to warn of extreme wildfire risks and urging the public to avoid activities that could ignite fires. Fire brigades are battling multiple blazes in Derbyshire and London, while police report surging emergency calls. The Met Office forecasts continued high temperatures across England and Wales, with potential thunderstorms early next week. Water companies have introduced hosepipe bans across several regions as strained supplies worsen due to repeated heatwaves, dry conditions, population growth, and long-term infrastructure underinvestment.
LBC Jul 2026
Exact date UK heatwave to end and thunderstorms to arrive
The UK is experiencing its third heatwave of the year, with temperatures expected to reach up to 35C in southern England and amber heat health alerts issued across multiple regions. Conditions are forecast to remain hot through July 13, with high pressure keeping weather warm and dry, though cooler temperatures may develop in some areas as winds shift. The southwest is likely to stay particularly warm, and there is a chance of thunderstorms spreading into southern and southwestern regions. Authorities advise hydration, sun protection and checking on vulnerable people, while longer-term forecasts suggest continued warm weather into August.
LBC Jul 2026
Failing to teach history of British Empire in schools means children do not understand role in shaping UK, claims Salman Rushdie
Salman Rushdie argues that the lack of education about the British Empire in UK schools prevents children from understanding its role in shaping modern Britain, warning that historical ignorance obscures the legacy of colonialism. Speaking at a cultural event in London, he highlighted how the wealth extracted from India fuelled Britain’s power and lamented the absence of Empire narratives in classic English literature. Rushdie also warned of growing threats to free speech in the United States, criticising book bans targeting works addressing Black American history and calling efforts to reshape historical narratives dangerous during the country’s 250th anniversary.
LBC Jul 2026
Millions in UK living in 'tree deserts' as new £2.5m scheme announced to plant trees in parks, playgrounds and orchards
A government‑backed £2.5 million Trees Outside Woodland Fund has reopened, offering grants of £10,000 to £40,000 for planting trees, hedgerows and orchards in England. The initiative, run by the Tree Council with Defra, aims to expand tree cover in parks, playgrounds and streets to reduce heat risks, improve air quality and support wildlife. The Woodland Trust warns that millions in the UK live in areas lacking sufficient tree cover. Officials highlight the scheme’s role in boosting climate resilience, expanding green‑space access and supporting commitments such as creating three new national forests.
LBC Jul 2026
Charlie Kirk's widow Erika faces alleged killer of husband in court
Erika Kirk and other relatives of Charlie Kirk attended a preliminary hearing in Provo, Utah, where accused shooter Tyler Robinson faced new evidence and testimony. Prosecutors presented surveillance footage allegedly placing Robinson on campus multiple times on the day of the killing. Robinson, charged with aggravated murder and other offenses, has not entered a plea and could face the death penalty if convicted. The family released a statement expressing grief and gratitude for public support, while Erika Kirk, who has previously said she forgives the suspect, appeared emotional during the proceedings.
LBC Jul 2026
In pictures: Three Lions roar to quarter-finals after victory at the Azteca
England defeated Mexico 3-2 at the Azteca Stadium to reach the World Cup quarter-finals, overcoming a red card, a delayed kickoff and intense conditions. Harry Kane scored from the penalty spot before conceding one, while Jude Bellingham netted twice in quick succession. Raul Jimenez and Quinones responded for Mexico, but England held firm through extended added time to secure a last‑eight meeting with Norway, sparking widespread celebrations among players and fans.