James Fell

Firefighters brought a new wildfire near Holmfirth Road in Oldham, Greater Manchester, under control after it spread across about 500m by 150m. Crews remained to dampen hotspots and prevent further spread, while the cause was investigated and a road closure was imposed. The blaze occurred amid an amber extreme heat warning, the UK's fifth heatwave of the year, with parts of England reaching temperatures of up to 38°C and widespread drought conditions.

Businesses, charities and community groups across Greater Manchester will be able to apply later this year for a share of a £20 million Good Growth High Streets Fund. Mayor Bev Craig says the scheme will help revive struggling town centres by reusing empty shops, supporting community events and restoring local pride. The fund forms part of the wider Our High Streets programme and will be supported by a new taskforce of businesses and community groups. The announcement also coincides with plans for a Mayoral Development Corporation in Middleton, which aims to support about 1,500 homes and town-centre regeneration.