Grace Mcgrory

A cyber-security incident at Beacon CRM, a software provider used by more than 1,000 organisations, affected Lincoln Cathedral and Magna Vitae leisure centres in Lincolnshire. Potentially exposed information includes names, addresses, email addresses, phone numbers and, for some Magna Vitae users, event and equality-related records; payment and bank details were not stored in the system. There is currently no evidence that data was published online or shared elsewhere, and no ransom demand has been reported. Beacon CRM is investigating with external cyber-security experts, while the affected organisations have reported the incident to the Information Commissioner's Office and advised users to remain alert to suspicious communications.

A fire at Normanby Park Riding School near Scunthorpe destroyed barns, hay, straw, rugs and vehicles, with estimated damage exceeding £100,000. Owner Sarah McDonald said no staff or horses were injured and that children and horses were evacuated safely. She believed the recent heatwave may have contributed to the blaze, while firefighters and local residents helped contain the damage and clear remaining straw. A fundraising appeal raised more than £4,000 to support rebuilding.

An Ofsted inspection found that Hull Training and Adult Education failed to meet safeguarding standards and needed to rapidly improve oversight. Inspectors also reported that too few young people achieved English and maths qualifications, although most gained their vocational qualifications. The provider was praised for developing learners' skills and for its highly inclusive support for people with high needs. Hull City Council cabinet member Linda Tock acknowledged the need for immediate improvements while highlighting the strong and expected standards achieved in several areas.

Hundreds of people joined a parade and city-centre celebrations in Hull marking 25 years of Pride in Hull. The event featured stalls, music, performances and participation from community groups, an inclusive rugby team and the NHS Humber Health Partnership. Organizers said Pride brings more than £1 million to the local economy each year and provides vital support and visibility for LGBTQ+ people, while participants highlighted the importance of allies and community positivity amid wider pressures on LGBTQ+ communities.

Farmers in East Yorkshire are spray-tanning Texel sheep to enhance their appearance for the 150th Driffield Show, where livestock will be judged across various categories. Farmer Sam Beachell says the light brown coating highlights muscle definition and contrasts with the animals’ white head and legs. He looks forward to the show’s social aspect and hopes to win additional prizes, as his flock has been successful in previous years. The event features competitions, trade stalls, entertainment, and family attractions.

A new musical titled Girl And A Gansey is being developed by writer John Slater, inspired by Stephen Carvill’s Gansey Girl sculpture on Bridlington’s north pier. Slater is seeking participants for an open script read‑through on 16 August and plans to cast 20 to 24 people. Set in the late 1890s, the production will feature ten songs and be staged at Bridlington’s Spotlight Theatre, with dates to be confirmed.

A spike in rescues at Holderness Hedgehog Hospital is attributed to hot weather hardening the ground, limiting food and water access for hedgehogs. High temperatures may prompt mother hedgehogs to abandon nests, increasing the number of young animals needing care. The charity is currently looking after 86 hedgehogs and urges the public to provide water for wildlife and contact rescue centres if hedgehogs appear injured or are seen during the day.

A community‑run library in Anlaby Park has become known for sparking romances after four couples met there, including two long‑term pairs who describe the venue as welcoming and homely. Volunteers took over the library after budget cuts threatened its closure in 2013, and it now relies on 60 to 80 helpers and fundraising to operate. A major refurbishment is planned, with the council funding exterior repairs and volunteers financing interior work.