Issy Clarke

Graham's Family Dairy recalled one-pint, one-litre and two-litre containers of semi-skimmed milk with a 31 July 2026 use-by date after veterinary medicines, including possible penicillin, were detected. Consumers in England and Scotland have been told not to drink the milk and to return it for a refund, particularly those with antibiotic allergies. The Food Standards Agency said the affected products may pose a health risk, while Graham's apologised and said no other products or use-by dates were affected.

James May told LBC that a planned 20% reduction in business rates for pubs and live-music venues would save his Wiltshire pub roughly £4,500 a year but would have little noticeable effect when spread across customers. He argued that hospitality businesses should largely survive on their own merits and said only a substantial VAT reduction would significantly increase footfall. May rejected Gary Lineker's call for higher taxes on the wealthiest people, saying wealthy taxpayers already contribute more, but supported the BBC's survival and suggested streaming services such as Netflix and Amazon could make a modest contribution to its funding. He also argued for more flexible alcohol laws modeled on Switzerland.

Campaigners from Save Wimbledon Park have been granted permission by the Court of Appeal to pursue a second legal challenge against plans by the All England Club to expand the Wimbledon tennis site onto former golf course land. The group argues the land is subject to a statutory trust under a 19th‑century law, restricting its use, a position previously rejected by the High Court. The appeal is expected to be heard in 2027. The All England Club called the decision disappointing but expressed confidence the original ruling would stand, saying the expansion would bring community benefits. The dispute follows earlier legal challenges to planning approval granted by the Greater London Authority in 2024, which the Court of Appeal has also allowed to proceed.

Zendaya faced criticism for wearing 3,000-year-old Iranian earrings during promotion of Christopher Nolan’s film The Odyssey, with experts arguing the artefacts hold significant cultural and spiritual value and should not be used as fashion accessories. Critics also highlighted the geopolitical context involving U.S. actions in Iran. The earrings, part of the Ziwiye hoard, were loaned by Barron London. Comparisons were drawn to previous controversies such as Kim Kardashian wearing Marilyn Monroe’s historic dress. The Odyssey also attracted scrutiny for filming in Western Sahara, prompting calls for a boycott. Public reaction to Zendaya’s choice was divided, with some deeming it unethical and others defending it as harmless and educational.

Andy Burnham became the UK’s new prime minister after being invited by the King to form a government, pledging major reforms including reindustrialisation, a 10‑year national plan and action on rough sleeping. He began assembling his cabinet with a sweeping reshuffle that removed several senior figures including Rachel Reeves, David Lammy, Steve Reed and Peter Kyle. Shabana Mahmood, Ed Miliband and John Healey were seen entering No 10 amid speculation about new appointments. Burnham held an introductory call with US President Donald Trump, discussing defence, security, global supply chains and the Middle East. Departing ministers expressed support for the new government as the political transition accelerated.

Fire crews responded to a blaze on Arthur’s Seat in Edinburgh after reports of smoke shortly before 7pm, deploying four appliances as they worked to contain the fire with no casualties reported. The incident marks the second fire at the site this year and coincides with ongoing efforts to control a larger wildfire in the Cairngorms, which has burned several square kilometres but is now largely surrounded, allowing evacuated residents to return home. The park authority reports that the Cairngorms incident remains active as crews continue joint operations to suppress remaining hotspots.

Andy Burnham is set to become the UK’s new prime minister after winning the Labour leadership unopposed and will meet King Charles before forming a cabinet. Keir Starmer departs after final engagements, including a meeting with Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Speculation surrounds Burnham’s cabinet selections and early policy moves, including scrapping Labour’s digital ID plan and focusing on cost-of-living issues. Reactions from political figures range from cautious optimism to concerns over economic clarity, while Burnham prepares to emphasise stability, unity, and tangible improvements in his first speech.

Flash floods and severe thunderstorms hit New York City and New Jersey hours before the World Cup final, submerging streets, disrupting travel, grounding flights, and triggering a tornado warning. Heavy overnight rainfall forced Spain and Argentina to delay or cancel training sessions. Emergency alerts urged residents in low-lying areas to seek higher ground as videos showed stranded drivers and flooded subway stations.

Donald Trump praised incoming UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham for reportedly planning to accelerate North Sea oil drilling, claiming residents of Aberdeen would welcome expanded production. Burnham has not confirmed new fossil fuel approvals and is expected to uphold Labour’s pledge not to issue new licenses while potentially fast‑tracking existing projects such as Jackdaw and Rosebank. Labour deputy leader Lucy Powell said the government will maintain its manifesto commitments but adopt a more pragmatic emphasis on energy policy.

A judge sentenced Kiran Kaur to three years in prison for assisting her son, Vickrum Digwa, by removing the knife he used to fatally stab 18-year-old Henry Nowak. Prosecutors said her actions hindered the initial police investigation, while the defence argued she acted in panic after being misled by her son. Digwa, already serving a life sentence, has applied to challenge his conviction and sentence, as his case is also under review for being unduly lenient amid public criticism of the police response to the attack.

Pakistan’s foreign ministry declined to accept the return of convicted grooming gang leader Shabir Ahmed, arguing that responsibility lies with the UK where he lived most of his life. Ahmed, recently released after serving part of a sentence for multiple child rape offences, cannot currently be deported due to a legal loophole protecting long‑term Commonwealth residents. The UK government plans to change immigration laws to enable his removal, and Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper has not ruled out a deal with Pakistan. Concerns remain that Ahmed may use human rights protections to stay in Britain, while victims express fear following his release.

Argentina lodged a formal protest accusing the Royal Navy’s HMS Medway of an unauthorized military incursion into its waters near the Falkland Islands shortly after Argentina’s World Cup victory over England. The accusation heightened tensions already inflamed by Argentine players displaying a Falklands sovereignty banner and statements from Argentine officials criticizing the UK. UK ministers condemned the banner as inappropriate and called for a FIFA investigation, while Argentine officials invoked national pride and historical grievances. The dispute underscores enduring sovereignty tensions surrounding the Falkland Islands amid renewed public and political friction during the World Cup.

England and Argentina remain goalless in their World Cup semi-final in Atlanta as England make a bright start, creating pressure through set pieces and wide play. Thomas Tuchel introduces three changes to his lineup, while Argentina adjust their midfield with Giuliano Simeone. Lionel Messi threatens on the counter as tensions rise with early fouls, including the first booking for Anderson. Supporters gather across the UK and the US as both teams settle into a competitive opening phase ahead of a place in the final against Spain.

A 7,500‑tonne illegal waste dump was found near Bradford City AFC’s Valley Parade stadium after residents reported a foul smell during a heatwave. The Environment Agency, working with local authorities and emergency services, is investigating, has seized an HGV linked to the dumping, and is seeking public information. Local councillors condemned the incident and called for those responsible to be identified and held accountable.

An elderly Melbourne couple with dementia fled a retirement home less than a week after arrival, leaving in their Mazda 2 after collecting medication and later appearing on CCTV at a shopping centre. They were found safe 32 hours later in Maryborough. Their daughter said they disliked the care home, struggled with the loss of independence, and had attempted to leave once before.

Ann Widdecombe’s rural Dartmoor home was featured in a re‑aired episode of Celebrity Yorkshire Auction House days before she was found dead with serious head injuries. Police arrested a 28‑year‑old man on suspicion of murder and say they are not seeking additional suspects, with no indication of terrorism or political motivation. Officers caution against public speculation as investigations continue, while Widdecombe’s political and television career is noted in background details.

Mitch McConnell attributed his recent absence to a fall that briefly left him unconscious and to a mild case of pneumonia, clarifying speculation that escalated after his June 14 hospitalisation. His office released a photo of him with Elaine Chao to counter rumours, including claims circulated by Trump ally Laura Loomer that he was brain‑dead. McConnell said testing ruled out serious conditions and confirmed he remains in rehabilitation, delaying his return to the Senate. The report also notes previous health incidents and references the sudden death of fellow Republican senator Lindsey Graham.

Mel Stride criticises Andy Burnham for lacking a clear economic strategy and labels him a political 'flip-flopper', arguing Labour continues to avoid difficult fiscal decisions. He says stabilising public finances requires controlling welfare spending rather than raising taxes and indicates Conservatives would work with a future Burnham administration on welfare reform. Stride questions Burnham’s devolution proposals if they add bureaucracy or raise local taxes. He also pays tribute to Ann Widdecombe following her death, praising her conviction and public impact while police continue their murder investigation.

Jude Bellingham pushed back against Thomas Tuchel’s criticism of England’s performance in their 2-1 World Cup win over Norway, arguing that the manager underestimated the difficulty of playing in extreme heat and against strong opposition. Despite Tuchel calling the result “fantastic” but the play “sloppy” and “lucky,” Bellingham defended the team’s effort and highlighted their positive environment heading into the semi-finals against Argentina. The midfielder’s two goals continued his record-setting tournament run, prompting renewed praise from Gary Lineker, who suggested Bellingham may become England’s greatest-ever footballer.

Karl Turner paid tribute to Ann Widdecombe following her death, describing her as principled, charming and comparable to Dennis Skinner for her unapologetic nature. Widdecombe, a former Conservative minister and Reform UK spokesperson, was found dead in her Dartmoor home with police launching a murder investigation and arresting a suspect in South Yorkshire. Turner reflected on their political differences, her public personality, and the rise in abuse toward politicians, particularly women, since the Brexit referendum.

Heightened conflict between the US and Iran escalated as Iran closed the Strait of Hormuz after striking a container ship it claimed violated maritime rules. The US launched extensive strikes on Iranian military infrastructure in response, while Iran retaliated by targeting US-linked sites across several Gulf states and disabling another vessel. Regional militaries responded to missile and drone activity, and mediation efforts involving Oman, Qatar and Pakistan continued amid rising global energy prices driven by the blockade. Iran’s leadership issued vows of vengeance for the killing of former Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, while tensions further increased over reports that Iran had plotted to assassinate Donald Trump.

England advanced to the World Cup semi-finals after a 2-1 extra‑time win over Norway, driven by Jude Bellingham’s two goals, while Argentina secured their place by defeating Switzerland 3-1. England will face Argentina in Atlanta on 15 July. Thomas Tuchel praised his team’s effort but warned they must improve to win the tournament, noting their reliance on key moments and good fortune in recent matches. FIFA confirmed no contact between the ball and overhead camera wires following controversy around England’s opening goal. European champions Spain will meet France in the other semi-final.

Police believe Ann Widdecombe was attacked inside her Dartmoor home at 12:30pm on 8 July, roughly 24 hours before she was found dead. A 26-year-old man arrested on suspicion of murder has been released and is no longer a suspect. Investigators are searching for a white male and emphasise there is no terrorism link, while maintaining an open mind regarding motive. A police cordon, forensic work, and house-to-house enquiries continue, with authorities urging the public to provide information and avoid speculation.

An 18-year-old died after being found unresponsive in Dovestone Reservoir in Greater Manchester during a heatwave. Police pronounced him dead at the scene and are investigating, with a senior officer urging the public to avoid open water. The incident occurred as high temperatures continued across England, with heat health alerts in effect and the Met Office warning of ongoing hot weather and potential thunderstorms.

Harry Kane described playing golf with Donald Trump in Palm Beach 18 months earlier as a surreal but enjoyable experience, noting the US president’s impressive ability at age 80. His comments came as England prepared for their World Cup semi-final against Norway in Miami, where thousands of supporters were gathering. Kane also said the team hoped to make David Beckham proud after the former captain visited and encouraged the squad ahead of the match.

Meta withdrew its new Muse Image AI feature after widespread criticism over privacy risks and its automatic opt‑in design, which allowed users’ public Instagram photos to be incorporated into AI images without clear consent. SAG-AFTRA and public figures including actor Hannah Einbinder objected to the tool, prompting Meta to remove it and acknowledge it had “missed the mark.” The decision reflects growing pressure on technology firms to provide users with transparent control over how their content is used by AI systems.

Donald Trump warned that the United States would launch overwhelming military retaliation against Iran if it attempts to assassinate him, following reports that Iran had devised such a plan. His statements came after the funeral of Iran’s late Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, where calls for Trump’s death were made. Ongoing tensions include renewed attacks on vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, challenges to a fragile ceasefire, and disputes over maritime control. The US imposed further financial pressure on Iran by targeting a key IRGC-linked financier, while mediators attempt to revive negotiations amid escalating hostilities. Israel signaled readiness for additional military action if required.

Police released a 26-year-old man initially arrested on suspicion of murdering former MP Ann Widdecombe. Authorities continue searching for those responsible, with the Major Crime Investigation Team leading extensive forensic, CCTV and house-to-house inquiries in Haytor, Dartmoor. Police urge the public to avoid speculation and request any relevant information while maintaining a significant presence at the scene.

Johnnie Boden shared photos from his daughter Anna’s wedding, including images of the couple’s three-tier cake falling and smashing as caterers lost their grip. Despite the mishap, the newlyweds were shown celebrating happily on the family’s Dorset estate. Additional photos highlighted the bride’s classic gown, the groom’s enthusiastic moments, and Boden’s outfit change, while background details noted the fashion founder’s brand history and celebrity clientele.

Seasonal farm work in the UK is now dominated by laborers from Central Asia, who made up nearly 79 percent of Seasonal Worker visas in 2025, a sharp rise from 2021 as Ukrainian participation collapsed following the Russian invasion. Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan and Tajikistan now supply the majority of workers amid tightened Russian migration rules that have pushed more laborers to seek UK visas. Britain issues fewer than 40,000 of these visas annually, with high approval rates, while asylum applications from these countries have also increased in recent years.

Donna Kelce described Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce’s highly secretive July 4 wedding at Madison Square Garden as magical while details remained limited due to a strict no-phone policy. The event featured 1,000 guests, Dior attire for the couple, and celebrity attendees including Selena Gomez, Ed Sheeran, Hugh Grant, and Paul McCartney, with Adam Sandler officiating. Digital displays outside the venue celebrated the marriage, and Taylor Swift’s aunt shared that the couple were moved to tears during the ceremony.

Jordan Henderson was taken to hospital after injuring his wrist during celebrations following England’s 3-2 World Cup win over Mexico. The midfielder fell over advertising boards and required oxygen before being stretchered from the pitch. England manager Thomas Tuchel described the injury as serious, while Jude Bellingham said the medical team was handling the situation. Henderson, who has played only briefly in the tournament, joins Reece James on the injury list as England prepare to face Norway next.