James Vukmirovic

Wolverhampton Police have appealed for help locating 52-year-old Josephine, who was last seen in Wolverhampton on August 20 and is known to have links to Tettenhall and parts of Staffordshire. Anyone who sees her or has information is asked to call 999, quoting log 550 of 20 August.

Jewellery, watches and a coin collection were stolen from a property on Racecourse Lane in Stourbridge, an area affected by recent wildfires. West Midlands Police believe the burglary occurred during the previous week and are conducting CCTV and house-to-house enquiries while increasing uniformed and plain-clothes patrols. They are appealing for information about the stolen items and have provided crime reference and anonymous reporting details.

West Midlands Police are appealing for help identifying a man suspected of robbing a phone at The Radleys in Sheldon, Birmingham, at about 3:20 p.m. on July 23. Anyone with information is asked to contact police on 101, quoting crime number 20/336122/26, or Crimestoppers anonymously.

A multi-vehicle collision at the junction of Mill Street and Little Cottage Street in Brierley Hill at around 12:20pm led to two people receiving medical attention. A woman with injuries not believed to be serious was taken to Russell’s Hall Hospital, while a man was treated and discharged at the scene. National Express West Midlands diverted routes 2, 142, 142A, 15, 2A and X10 via Level Street and Pedmore Road.

The annual Best Foot Forward fundraiser, organized by the Rotary Club of the City of Wolverhampton, raised a record £37,327 despite a summer heatwave and participants falling short of the 20,000-lap target. The Coronary Aftercare Support Group and Sponsored Breaks each received £4,100, while other charity-sponsored walks raised more than £12,000. Since launching in 2013, the event has generated £271,327, with the next fundraiser scheduled for June 26, 2027.

A 16-year-old was arrested in Acocks Green after West Midlands Police officers from Project Guardian pursued him near Fox Hollies Road. Police said he retrieved a combat knife from his waist during the foot chase, and he was subsequently charged with knife possession.

Eleven couriers have been convicted or pleaded guilty over an attempt to smuggle 460 kilograms of cannabis, worth an estimated £13.8 million, into the UK through Birmingham Airport. The group arrived from Thailand via Paris with 22 suitcases containing vacuum-packed cannabis, some fitted with Apple AirTag trackers. Border Force officers seized the drugs and arrested the couriers in August 2024. The National Crime Agency, Border Force and Crown Prosecution Service described the operation as highly coordinated and warned that drug smuggling carries serious criminal and personal consequences. Sentencing hearings are scheduled for September 3 and October 22, 2026.

Eleven-year-old Thea Lutwyche alerted her mother after smelling smoke and spotting fields burning near their Stourbridge home. She called the fire service while Sarah Lutwyche helped move and protect their horses. Sarah praised Thea’s composure and said the wildfire was among the most frightening experiences of her life, while Thea expressed shock at the damage and pride in her actions.

Nicky Clement launched a fundraiser to reward nine Stourbridge farmers who helped tackle major wildfires by digging trenches, cultivating land and creating firebreaks that slowed the flames and protected homes. The campaign initially sought £2,000, surpassed £3,000, and has since raised its target to £9,000, which would allow each farmer to receive £1,000. Clement said the fundraiser recognises the farmers’ bravery and supports them during a difficult year of poor harvests and extensive recovery work.

Bishop of Dudley Martin Gorick described evacuating his Stourbridge home with his wife as flames approached the road and expressed relief that the house survived. He offered sympathy to residents who lost homes and possessions, praised Dudley Council, Stourbridge Town Hall, local religious communities and volunteers for organizing emergency donations, and thanked firefighters, police, paramedics and farmers for helping prevent deaths and further property loss.

Stourbridge resident David Price returned home after being prevented from accessing it during the wildfires and was amazed to find his house untouched. While his property required minor electrical and gas checks, three neighbouring homes were destroyed. Price expressed relief alongside sadness for his neighbours and said rebuilding could take more than a year, urging those responsible to examine how similar incidents could be prevented.

A tram breakdown in Birmingham has suspended West Midlands Metro services between Handsworth Booth Street and Winson Green, causing delays. Services continue on either side of the affected section, and passengers can use their tickets on National Express West Midlands buses and West Midland Railway services.

Firefighters have surrounded the blaze on Hednesford Hills in Cannock, allowing Staffordshire Fire & Rescue Service to scale down operations. Up to 11 crews attended, and firefighters are dampening down hotspots. Residents have been advised to keep windows and doors shut, while Staffordshire Police and Hednesford Hills Raceway staff were thanked for their support.

A man in his 40s was seriously injured in an assault on Upper High Street in Wednesbury late on Saturday night. He was taken to hospital in a serious but stable condition, while West Midlands Police reviewed CCTV, spoke with witnesses and maintained a cordon in Union Square. Police appealed for information, asking witnesses to call 101 and quote reference 5657 of 15 August.

West Midlands Police are investigating a shooting outside the Corn Exchange pub on Amblecote Road in Brierley Hill, where a man was shot in the leg after two groups became involved in a fight. The injury is not life-threatening. Two men, aged 34 and 40, were arrested on suspicion of violent disorder and remained in custody, while police reviewed CCTV, increased patrols and appealed for information.

A fundraiser launched by Stourbridge resident Nicky Clement aims to support farmers whose land was damaged by wildfires. Clement praised the farmers for creating firebreaks to contain the blaze and set a £2,000 target, with more than £900 raised at the time of publication.

A motorcyclist in his 30s died at the scene after a collision on Powke Lane near Yew Tree Lane in Rowley Regis, Sandwell. West Midlands Police are seeking witnesses, dashcam footage and the driver of a white Toyota Prius who may assist the investigation.

Dudley Council has launched the “Support residents affected by the Stourbridge fire” fund, which had raised more than £26,000 by the time of the report. Chief executive Balvinder Heran said the money would help affected residents recover and rebuild, while daily briefings would provide updates on donations, home access, road closures, the fire investigation and volunteering. Residents were advised not to return home until emergency services confirmed it was safe.

Two firearms handed into West Bromwich Police Station on Thursday evening were forensically recovered, with one confirmed as viable and due to undergo further examination. West Midlands Police arrested an 18-year-old man on suspicion of possessing a firearm; he was later bailed pending further inquiries. Police urged anyone with information to contact them or Crimestoppers, emphasizing the fear and harm caused by gun crime.

Bladder cancer survivor Brenda Irving is encouraging people to participate in research after joining the BC-Recon study, which is testing whether a urine test detecting mutated cancer DNA can replace some bladder inspections using flexible cystoscopy. The study involves 4,616 participants across England, including 547 recruited at Wolverhampton’s New Cross Hospital. Researchers from the University of Birmingham developed the test with Cancer Research UK funding, while NIHR-supported staff helped deliver the trial at the Royal Wolverhampton NHS Trust. If shown to be sufficiently accurate, the test could provide a quicker, less invasive option for some patients.

Adam Lang, owner of Langs of Wollaston in the Black Country, has built a popular range of inventive pork pies alongside the shop’s traditional award-winning Malvern Gold. Flavours include jalapeño and chorizo, corned beef and gherkin, cheese and black pudding, and a monthly special combining honey, Jack Daniel’s whisky and shredded pork. Lang attributes the business’s appeal to experimentation, high-quality food, professional service and family involvement, while continuing traditional butchery and expanding into dry-cured meats.

Residents on Brunswick Gate, Landsgate, Ounty John Lane, Quarry Park Road and Racecourse Lane in Stourbridge are being invited to meet emergency-service officers to determine whether they can return home after a major fire. Residents should bring proof of address and report to the meeting point at Worcester Lane and Pedmore Court Road. Fire officers will advise whether properties are safe to access, whether further assessment is needed, or whether residents must remain away; people whose homes were damaged or destroyed will be informed. Non-residents will be asked to leave, and emergency services warned that abusive behaviour will not be tolerated.

A man was shot in the leg near The Corn Exchange pub on Amblecote Road in Brierley Hill. He was taken to hospital with injuries not believed to be life-threatening. West Midlands Police arrested two men and appealed for witnesses and information as the investigation continued.

Charles Hill was praised as a hero after spotting the Stourbridge fire, calling emergency services and helping an elderly neighbour escape as flames and smoke spread toward homes. Several residents were evacuated or left unable to return home, while others remained uncertain about the condition of their properties. Residents described the fire as apocalyptic and expressed concern that dry conditions could lead to further incidents. Shadow Housing, Communities and Local Government Secretary James Cleverly visited the area with former Stourbridge MP Suzanne Webb to hear residents’ experiences and commend the emergency services and community response.

Two women aged 36 and 56 were arrested on suspicion of arson after a house and garden fire on Mount Road in Penn, Wolverhampton. Two fire crews attended, rescuing a man and a dog; the blaze caused substantial damage to the house and damage to a neighbouring property, but no one was injured. The women remained in police custody for questioning.

Former West Midlands Mayor Andy Street visited Norton Road in Stourbridge to meet residents affected by a devastating fire. He expressed sympathy for those evacuated from their homes and thanked emergency services, Dudley Council and volunteers for their response. Street also urged people to take greater care around sources of fire to help prevent similar incidents.

Springbanks Brewery, Wolverhampton's newest brewery, gained early recognition at the 2026 Wolverhampton CAMRA Summer Festival of Beer & Cider, where its Mild and IPA won first and second place. Founded after the closure of Banks's Brewery, the brewery aims to preserve Wolverhampton's brewing heritage, including artifacts from former local breweries and one of only two Burton Union fermentation systems. Co-owner Pete Atwal says the next priority is supplying pubs across the city, while the team plans future fermentations and collaborations once operations are fully established.

Stand By Me will hold the “Every Story Matters” community exhibition at Cheslyn Hay Academy on August 22. The event will feature artwork, short films, poetry, spoken-word pieces and performances aimed at encouraging conversations about men’s mental health, reducing isolation and highlighting available support. Organisers are urging residents across the West Midlands to share information about the event, citing the number of men who die by suicide in the UK each day.

Ten pubs, restaurants, cafes and takeaways across the West Midlands are listed for sale or leasehold purchase at prices below £50,000. Opportunities range from the £10,000 leasehold of The Hopton Crown near Cleobury Mortimer, which includes a bar, restaurant and 18 bedrooms, to Fireaway Pizza premises in Walsall priced at £49,950. The listings include businesses in Willenhall, Darlaston, Smethwick, Stone, Bloxwich, Dudley, West Bromwich and Bearwood, with details on rents, lease terms, equipment, facilities, turnover and reported sales. The properties are marketed as opportunities for aspiring hospitality and food-business owners.

Staffordshire Fire & Rescue Service has welcomed the UK government’s temporary national ban on disposable barbecue sales after crews attended 600 outdoor fires in the county during the previous month—almost twice last year’s demand. Assistant Chief Fire Officer Jim Bywater said dry, warm conditions and the ability of disposable barbecues to ignite vegetation make them a major fire risk. The service is urging the public to follow existing local bans and is working with Staffordshire Police; three people have been arrested in connection with recent fires, with further investigations ongoing.

A fire near Stourbridge damaged railway embankments, forcing West Midlands Railway to reduce services on the Snow Hill Lines. Birmingham–Kidderminster trains will run only as far as Stourbridge, with replacement buses operating between Stourbridge and Kidderminster over the weekend of 15–16 August. Passengers delayed by more than 15 minutes can claim Delay Repay compensation.

Sandwell Police has appealed for help locating Darrel, a 54-year-old man who is missing from Smethwick and believed to be at risk. Anyone who sees him is asked to call 999 and quote log 1133 of 14 August.

Brownhills Canal Festival will take place on Silver Street on August 15 and 16, from 10am to 4pm, with free admission. Organized by the Lichfield & Hatherton Canals Restoration Trust, the event will feature historic boats, floating traders, food vendors, craft stalls, community groups and heritage displays. Organizers aim to promote Brownhills as a canal town and demonstrate how restoring the Lichfield Canal could bring greater activity and economic opportunity to the area. Despite water shortages affecting parts of the canal network, the festival’s boats are expected to attend as planned.

The historic Old Stags Head pub in Penn, Wolverhampton, is nearing reopening after eight years closed and almost 18 months of renovation. New owner Sukhwinder Singh and co-owner Ravinder Singh have invested about £1 million in purchasing and rebuilding the 200-year-old property. They plan to operate it as a family-friendly desi pub offering mixed grills, curries, English dishes, Sunday carveries, drinks and community events, with an open kitchen and a children’s play area planned. A gala opening is expected at the start of September.

Students across the West Midlands are receiving A-level and technical qualification results, with some accepting university places and others considering apprenticeships or alternative courses. Wolverhampton Grammar School reported that 72% of its students achieved A*–B grades, including 17% receiving A* grades, while 90% of Cambridge Technicals students achieved a Distinction or better. Many students secured places at universities including Cambridge, Bristol, Manchester, Imperial and UCL, and five progressed to medical or dentistry school. The school also highlighted apprenticeships with employers such as Rolls-Royce and PwC, while acting head Dan Peters credited students' success partly to the school's inclusive culture and praised the graduating class.

A traffic operation on Pensnett Road in Dudley led to four vehicles being seized, two motorists being reported for driving without insurance or a licence, and two disqualified drivers being identified. Police also found a weighted metal bar in one vehicle, resulting in a 47-year-old man being charged with possessing an offensive weapon in a public place and driving while disqualified. Other drivers were reported for illegal tinted windows, failing to wear seatbelts and defective brake lights. The man is due to appear at Dudley Magistrates Court on September 15.

A photo gallery presents readers’ images of a partial solar eclipse seen across the West Midlands, including photographs taken in Blakenall, Brierley Hill, Bloxwich and Perton. Despite cloud cover in some areas, residents captured the eclipse, described as the region’s darkest since 1999.

Emergency services responded to concerns for a man near Smethwick Galton Bridge railway station at about 7:33am on August 12. West Midlands Police brought him down safely, while ambulance crews assessed him and provided self-care advice before leaving him in police care.

Staffordshire Police arrested three people and seized several bikes during targeted patrols around Wombourne, Highgate Common and the Railway Walk in response to concerns about illegal e-bike use and anti-social behaviour. One man was arrested after allegedly riding an electric motorbike and abandoning it after a crash; another was stopped on an electric off-road bike, found with a small amount of cannabis, and reported for driving without a licence and insurance. Officers also recovered a mountain bike allegedly stolen during a robbery and arrested a 15-year-old boy from Dudley on suspicion of robbery. Police said the operation demonstrated their commitment to acting on community intelligence and tackling off-road vehicle offences.

A 16-year-old boy was arrested in Birmingham city centre after West Midlands Police officers from the Project Guardian Taskforce recovered a Stanley knife during a stop and search. He was later further arrested on suspicion of racially abusing a police officer and remained in custody for questioning. The taskforce said it focuses on reducing knife crime and youth violence through patrols, plain-clothed operations and engagement with young people.

Kian Smith and Joshua Nutting, both aged 20 and from Darlaston, along with a 16-year-old boy, have been charged with going equipped for burglary, being on enclosed premises and criminal damage after police responded to suspicious activity near a business on Stafford Street. Officers detained the three and recovered a bag containing tools. The two adults are due to appear at Dudley Magistrates Court, while the teenager is due at Wolverhampton Youth Court.

West Midlands Police have released an image of a man they want to identify in connection with a robbery at a shop on Kingstanding Road, Birmingham, on July 5. A shop worker was pushed to the ground after challenging a man who was allegedly taking items without paying. Police are asking anyone with information to contact them via 101 or Live Chat, while anonymous reports can be made through Crimestoppers.

A 37-year-old woman was arrested in Dudley on suspicion of three counts of theft after nearly £1,000 worth of goods were reportedly stolen from a store on Stourbridge High Street on August 3, 4 and 6. West Midlands Police said she was arrested after being spotted at a store on Dudley High Street and remained in custody for questioning.

An 11-year-old boy from Cannock has been bailed with conditions after being questioned over a series of fires in the Cannock, Rugeley and Hednesford areas. He was arrested on suspicion of attempted arson with intent to endanger life and is the third boy arrested in connection with the incidents. Staffordshire Police said enquiries are continuing, with some fires believed to have been started deliberately.

West Mercia Police is appealing for help identifying two men believed to have information about assaults on two women in Bewdley on May 2. The women were approached after leaving the Talbot pub; one was punched in the head and the other was grabbed, pushed to the ground and injured. Police have released an image and provided contact details for PC James Ryder and Crimestoppers.

Two men aged 18 and 51 were arrested in Handsworth after West Midlands Police’s Operation Fearless stopped a vehicle and recovered suspected Class A drugs, cash and a mobile phone. A search of a linked address also uncovered a machete. The men remain in custody on suspicion of possessing drugs with intent to supply.

National Express West Midlands’ service 12 will be diverted towards Birmingham because of roadworks on Rounds Green Road in Oldbury. The service will travel via Shidas Lane, Partway Road and Oldbury Ringway.

Sandwell Leisure Trust has applied for a premises licence to stage indoor sporting events at Sandwell Aquatics Centre in Smethwick, which hosted swimming and diving during the 2022 Commonwealth Games. The proposed operating hours are 6am to 11pm on weekdays and 6.30am to 9pm on weekends. Sandwell Council has set August 24 as the deadline for objections or representations.

Staffordshire County Council filled 4,750 potholes in July, the highest monthly total in five years and above the 3,583 repairs recorded in July of the previous year. Dry weather and faster repair methods helped highways crews increase output. Cabinet member Peter Mason praised the crews and said the council’s additional £15 million investment over the next two years would improve road conditions and safety. The council is targeting 40,000 pothole repairs by the end of March 2027.

Khalsa Ready-Mix Concrete Ltd has applied for a Goods Vehicle Operators Licence to use Unit 15 on Monmore Road in Wolverhampton as an operating centre for five goods vehicles and two trailers. The Traffic Commissioner is inviting nearby landowners and occupiers who believe their interests could be affected to submit written representations by 25 August.

The Haven Wolverhampton is inviting members of the public to join its Haven Hikers team for the Yorkshire Three Peaks Challenge on September 26. Participants will cover 24 miles and climb 1,585 metres within 12 hours to raise funds for the charity’s domestic abuse support services. The charity says 1,800 women and children were referred to it in 2024–25, while its advice team answered an average of 2,659 helpline calls each month. Communications lead Jade Beddington said the physical challenge reflects the courage required by survivors rebuilding their lives after abuse.

Tettenhall, a historic village on the outskirts of Wolverhampton near the Staffordshire border, is praised by residents and visitors for its shops, pubs, restaurants, community atmosphere, countryside setting and summer pool. Lyn Phillips and Anne Cooper say the village is an attractive and enjoyable place to visit and would be desirable to live in. However, the pool and local events can draw large crowds during hot weather, creating chaotic parking and concerns about protecting Tettenhall’s village identity from excessive development and overcrowding.

West Midlands Police are seeking help identifying a woman they want to question after two gold necklaces were stolen from a woman on College Road in Alum Rock, Birmingham, at around noon on June 2. Information can be provided through the force’s website Live Chat or by calling 101 with crime reference number 20/271432/26.

Two mallards and a cygnet were found shot dead beside a canal between Leconfield and Anchor Lane in Bilston. The RSPCA believes the birds were deliberately targeted and says the incident occurred between the evening of August 5 and the morning of August 6, 2026. The animal welfare charity is appealing for witnesses or anyone with information to contact its Inspectorate appeal line, quoting incident 01873778.

A 47-year-old man was arrested and later bailed after West Midlands Police officers from Operation Fearless stopped and searched a car near Soho Road in Birmingham, finding suspected Class A and B drugs. A search of a linked address also uncovered cash. The investigation into suspected possession with intent to supply drugs is continuing.

West Midlands Police has appealed for help locating 43-year-old Christopher Cooley, who is wanted for recall to prison and has connections to Smethwick and Birmingham. Anyone who sees him or knows his whereabouts is asked to call 999 and quote crime number 20/17408/26.

Staffordshire Fire & Rescue Service says the Cannock Chase fire has been brought under control, allowing more crews to leave the scene. Remaining firefighters are dampening down hotspots and working to prevent re-ignition, with some crews expected to stay through the weekend and into Monday. The service thanked local partner organizations and the community for their support, while an investigation into the cause will begin once conditions are safe.

Jibril Abdi, 21, has been charged with attempted murder after a 15-year-old boy was shot in Newtown, Birmingham, on July 23. The teenager was taken to hospital with injuries that were not life-threatening. Abdi was arrested in High Wycombe, brought to the West Midlands for questioning and remanded to appear at Birmingham Magistrates’ Court. Two other arrested men were bailed while West Midlands Police continued reviewing CCTV and investigating the incident.

A collision blocked the A4100 Lower High Street between Forge Lane and Foxoak Street in Cradley Heath, causing motorists to face lengthy delays from around 3:30 p.m. National Express West Midlands diverted the X10 bus service via Coppice Lane, Quarry Road, St Annes Road and High Street. West Midlands Roads later reported that the road had fully reopened at 6:39 p.m.

A fire covering a large area of Cannock Chase remained ongoing, with crews extinguishing flames and damping down hotspots. Staffordshire Fire & Rescue Service said 15 crews had worked at the height of the incident to contain its spread, while a reduced but still substantial presence remained on site. Residents were advised to close windows and doors and avoid the area because of heavy smoke; the service said further fire engines would not indicate an escalation.

Stafford Borough Police are appealing for information after a property on Hyde Lea Bank in Coppenhall was burgled between approximately 1am and 3am on August 1. Investigators are examining reports of a suspicious Citroën C3 and believe the offenders may have approached through open fields behind the property. Residents are asked to check CCTV, doorbell, wildlife-camera and dashcam footage and contact police with relevant information.

West Midlands Police has launched an appeal for information to locate 26-year-old Akram Nesseri of Walsall, who is wanted for failing to comply with a sex offenders notification order. Members of the public who see him are asked to call 999 and quote reference 20/348798/26.

Bus services 97 and 97A were diverted through Bordesley Green in Birmingham because of an incident on Azalea Grove. National Express West Midlands announced the diversion at 7:49 a.m., directing buses via Victoria Street, Green Lane and Belcher Lane, and confirmed by 8:42 a.m. that normal service had resumed.

Bus services 97 and 97A were diverted through Azalea Grove in Bordesley Green, Birmingham, because of an incident. National Express West Midlands directed buses via Victoria Street, Green Lane and Belcher Lane before confirming at 8:42 a.m. that normal routes had resumed.

Merry Hill shopping centre in Brierley Hill has introduced a refrigerated Lola's Cupcakes collection locker in its upper mall near Argos. Customers can order cakes, cupcakes and brownies online, including build-your-own cupcake boxes, for collection after they are baked to order. The locker adds to the centre's existing food and drink options.

A vehicle was seized in Stafford after Staffordshire Police officers stopped it in the early hours of August 5 and found that the driver had only a provisional licence and no insurance. The driver was reported for road offences, while a family member was also reported under the Road Traffic Act 1988 provisions concerning the use, causing or permitting of a vehicle.

Lee Brickley's new book, The Unofficial Wolverhampton, explores overlooked people, incidents and cultural moments from the city's history. Among its stories are a dangerous 1862 balloon ascent, Thomas Parker's early electric vehicle, and connections to figures including Meera Syal, Beverley Knight, Goldie and Slade. Brickley, who studied at the University of Wolverhampton, hopes the book will restore the city’s place in historical narratives and inspire local people through the achievements of those connected with Wolverhampton.

Leekes Bilston, a furniture and department store that opened as Cole’s in 1921, closed permanently on August 2 after more than a century of trading. The store had been operated by Leekes since 2009 and held a closing-down sale before shutting. In a farewell message, Leekes thanked Bilston customers and staff for 15 years of memories, including anniversary celebrations, appearances by Wolves legend Steve Bull, Christmas events with Santa and a 1970s-themed party.

Staffordshire Police’s Road Crime Team seized two BMWs in Cannock on August 3. One was identified as a stolen, cloned vehicle with no insurance, while the other was stopped because both the driver and passenger held only provisional licences, meaning the driver was not properly supervised.

Tipton station’s car park will be partially closed from August 16 to 20 while resurfacing work is carried out. Transport for West Midlands warned that parking will be limited during the works and that overnight parking will not be available on August 16.

Damian Badger, 39, of Stourport, was sentenced to six months in prison by Kidderminster Magistrates Court after being convicted of four shop thefts committed shortly after he received a suspended sentence for 24 similar offences. He was also given a two-year criminal behaviour order banning him from four named stores in Stourport and Kidderminster, as well as retail stores where a named individual is present. West Mercia Police said the sentence reflected the impact of repeat shoplifting on retailers, staff, communities and consumer costs.

Five boys aged 14 to 18 were arrested in Northfield, Birmingham, after officers from West Midlands Police’s Operation Skybridge team stopped a group suspected of travelling in a stolen car. The teenagers were detained after a short foot chase, and officers recovered a knife from the vehicle. All five remain in custody on suspicion of vehicle theft.

West Midlands Police are seeking to identify a man allegedly involved in a bilking incident at a petrol station on Battery Way in Birmingham on May 9. Police say a vehicle was filled with petrol and driven away without payment. Anyone who recognises the man is asked to contact police or Crimestoppers, quoting the relevant crime number.

New landlords Cait and Alex are taking over the Mount Pleasant pub in Wombourne and plan to make it a community hub. Their plans include reopening the kitchen, adding a children’s play area, hosting more community events, welcoming dogs and making other improvements. A celebration event was held with music from Black Country Thunder.

American food and travel creator Kalani Ghost Hunter visited Jolly's Finest Fish & Chips in Tipton and praised its distinctive orange chips. He described the Black Country delicacy as crunchy, flavorful and unique, encouraging UK viewers to try battered chips. The dish is believed to have originated in the 1950s or 1960s, with turmeric, paprika or a secret ingredient responsible for its orange batter.

West Midlands Police are investigating reports that a firearm was discharged by one group of young men toward another on Poplar Green in Dudley at about 1:50 p.m. on Saturday. No injuries have been reported. The Major Crime Unit is conducting CCTV and house-to-house inquiries, while additional patrols have been deployed. Detective Inspector Hope Grimson urged anyone with information about those involved to contact police via 101, quoting log 2408 of 1 August.

Calm returned to Poplar Green in Dudley a day after police responded to reports of disorder and possible gunshots. West Midlands Police received multiple calls shortly before 1:50 p.m., cordoned off the area and conducted enquiries, but reported no injuries or arrests. Residents described seeing numerous police vehicles and hearing differing accounts of the incident, while police appealed for CCTV, mobile-phone or dashcam footage.

Hashratullah Nabizada, 24, has been charged with attempted murder in connection with a June 23 stabbing in Birmingham’s Victoria Square. An 18-year-old man suffered potentially life-changing injuries and a 17-year-old boy sustained facial injuries. Nabizada was arrested on July 31, remanded in custody and due to appear at Birmingham Magistrates’ Court on August 3. He is the third man charged with attempted murder over the attack.

Sedgley couple Claire O’Kane and Matt Price plan to cycle 900 miles from Land’s End to John O’Groats in five days, averaging about 180 miles daily, to raise funds for the Motor Neurone Disease Association. The challenge is motivated by Claire’s mother Chrissie, who was diagnosed with ALS and has rapidly lost mobility and other functions. The couple hopes the extreme ride will raise awareness and support research, inspired in part by Kevin Sinfield’s work on MND awareness.

Victoria Road in Fallings Park, Wolverhampton, will be closed between Cannock Road and Bushbury Road from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on August 3 and 4 for resurfacing. Wolverhampton Council has advised motorists to use diversions via Cannock Road and Bushbury Road.

Fire crews responded to two large outdoor fires in Staffordshire on August 1, 2026. Crews attended a crop fire on Gunstone Lane in Codsall shortly before 1pm, while a second fire broke out near the Seven Springs Car Park at Cannock Chase shortly after 1.30pm. Five fire appliances and two rangers were deployed to the Cannock Chase blaze, and residents were asked to avoid both areas.

West Midlands Police has appealed for help identifying a man believed to be connected with a distraction burglary on Hagley Road West in Birmingham on July 10. A phone was stolen from a property at about 11:15am. Police described the man as being in his late 40s and approximately 5ft 6ins tall, and asked witnesses to contact them or Crimestoppers.

Mahroy Stephenson, 30, of Bartley Green, has been charged with multiple offences following alleged attacks on police officers and other incidents in Birmingham. The charges include wounding an officer with intent after a baton attack on Soho Road on 3 July, assaulting another officer during his arrest on Milner Road in Selly Oak on 30 July, wounding a man and woman with intent, and stealing a necklace and bracelet worth £9,000. He is due to appear at Birmingham Magistrates’ Court.

Images show extensive damage after a farmland fire on Morfe Lane in Enville, South Staffordshire, burned about 20 acres of field and a tractor. The blaze, which spread rapidly in strong winds and produced smoke visible from nearby areas, was attended by five Staffordshire Fire & Rescue trucks and was extinguished at about 7:15 p.m., followed by dampening-down operations.

Jude Bellingham returned to St Andrews with his mother, Denise, to watch his boyhood club Birmingham City play Barcelona in a pre-season friendly. The Stourbridge-born Real Madrid and England midfielder came through Birmingham's academy and spent 10 years at the club before moving to Borussia Dortmund in 2020. His subsequent achievements, including winning the Champions League and La Liga, are highlighted alongside his role as England's top scorer at the 2026 World Cup.

Wolverhampton Police appealed for public help to locate Emmanuel, a 16-year-old reported missing from Wolverhampton. He was described as 5ft 11in tall and wearing a turquoise top with a tick on the back and shorts. Anyone with information was asked to call 999 and quote PID 389691.

West Midlands Police is appealing for information to identify a man connected to a burglary on Merryfield Road in Dudley on June 18, during which jewellery was stolen. A nearby property was reportedly burgled about an hour later, and officers are investigating whether the incidents are linked. Information can be provided via the force’s website Live Chat or by calling 101 and quoting reference 20/331793/26.

Barbara Djordjevic, 28, has been charged with two thefts following reports that cash and a wallet were stolen in Wolverhampton city centre in September and November. She was arrested on July 30 and is due to appear at Dudley Magistrates Court on August 18.

Four fire crews from Bournbrook, Oldbury, Perry Barr and Staffordshire responded to a scrapyard fire on Wellesley Green Road in Oldbury shortly after 5:30pm on July 31. Using hose reel jets, firefighters tackled a blaze measuring approximately 50 by 30 metres and stopped it from spreading to the railway boundary and nearby buildings. By 7pm, the fire service reported that good progress had been made.

A 36-year-old man has been charged with sexually assaulting a West Midlands Police officer on horseback and is due to appear at Birmingham Magistrates Court in August. The charge follows two incidents involving mounted officers who were allegedly approached and touched inappropriately, possibly in connection with a social media trend. Police warned that touching mounted officers outside an emergency may be a criminal offence and could endanger the public, riders and horses.

West Midlands Railway suspended services on the Stourbridge Town Branch Line between Stourbridge Junction and Stourbridge Town because of expected high temperatures. Replacement road transport was requested, and passengers were warned of disruption.

Timothy Hunter, 36, from Cannock, was sentenced at Stafford Crown Court to two years and six months in prison after admitting supplying cocaine and committing two offences involving criminal property. Staffordshire Police said officers from its major and organised crime proactive team saw him riding a bicycle in Cannock’s Longford Road area, passing an item to a man outside shops. Officers later stopped and searched Hunter, finding several snap bags of cocaine, £140 in cash and a mobile phone. The arrest formed part of the force’s Operation Target.

Birmingham Police has appealed for help locating 36-year-old Brodie, who was last seen in Digbeth on July 27 and has links to eastern Birmingham. The force said it is concerned for his welfare and asked anyone who sees him or has information about his whereabouts to call 999, quoting log 2698 of 27 July.

Sutton Road in Kidderminster remains closed nearly two weeks after a sinkhole appeared on July 15. Worcestershire County Council has cordoned off the area, is working with utility companies, and has not set an official reopening date, although August 3 was listed as a possible completion date. A diversion route is in place around the town.

Sandwell Police have appealed for help locating Naisha, a 44-year-old woman reported missing from her home in Rowley Regis. She was last seen in Rowley Regis on Monday, and police have asked anyone who sees her or has information to call 999, quoting PID number 399582.

Staffordshire Police are appealing for information about a bicycle reported stolen outside the Morrisons supermarket on Mill Street in Stone between 5pm and 6pm on July 20. Witnesses and anyone with dashcam footage are asked to contact police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously.

West Midlands Police have renewed their appeal for information to identify a man wanted for questioning after a bus driver was racially abused on the number 74 bus near Birchfield Lane in Oldbury, Sandwell, at about 11:30 p.m. on March 17. Police have reposted an image of the man and asked anyone with information to contact them via Live Chat or by calling 101, quoting reference 20/183143/26.

Dudley Police have appealed for public help locating Michael, a 72-year-old man from Quarry Bank who was last seen at about 11:30 a.m. on July 27. He was wearing a navy short-sleeved top and grey joggers and carrying a black hoodie. Anyone who sees him is asked to call 999 and quote log 3980 27/07/26.

Motorists traveling southbound on the M6 between Junctions 6 at Birmingham and 5 at Sutton Coldfield faced delays of up to 60 minutes after a lorry shed metal frames onto the carriageway. Two of the three lanes remained closed while crews cleared the debris, with National Highways West Midlands advising drivers to allow extra time.

A lane on the Black Country Route between Coseley Road Island and Bankfield Road in Bilston has been temporarily closed because of Severn Trent Water emergency works. Wolverhampton Council warned motorists to expect delays.

West Midlands travellers heading to France and Spain are warned about disruption from severe wildfires, evacuations and road closures. Fires in France’s Gironde and Landes regions and around Madrid, Ávila and Valencia have affected large areas and displaced or confined tens of thousands of people. Holidaymakers travelling to Majorca may also face delays from anti-tourism protests and planned strikes by Swissport and other airport workers at Palma Airport, although widespread cancellations are considered unlikely.

Staffordshire Police are investigating a burglary at a residential property on Billington Lane in Derrington, believed to have occurred between the evening of July 23 and the morning of July 25, 2026. Residents and businesses on Billington Lane, Yew Tree Close, Mount Pleasant and Ruskin Drive are being asked to provide CCTV, doorbell-camera or dashcam footage. Information can be submitted to police or anonymously through Crimestoppers.

Alexander Harrison and Aadil Jabbar, from Birmingham, were convicted or pleaded guilty to multiple drug offences after West Midlands Police stopped their vehicle and found cannabis, cash, cocaine and heroin. Searches of linked addresses and mobile phones produced further evidence, including discussions of a police drug-seizure article and queries to an AI assistant about cannabis strains. Harrison pleaded guilty at Birmingham Crown Court to possessing crack cocaine and heroin with intent to supply, while Jabbar admitted several heroin and cocaine supply offences. Both are due to be sentenced in September.

London Broncos overwhelmed Midlands Hurricanes 78-16 at Avery Fields, scoring 14 tries in a dominant performance led by Gairo Voro’s hat-trick. The part-time Hurricanes battled hard and scored three tries through Toby Warren, Aidan McGowan and captain Jon-Luke Kirby, but handling errors, missed tackles and a significant fitness and experience gap proved decisive. Midlands will next host Keighley Cougars in a match important to their playoff hopes.

The Queens Head pub on Birmingham’s Steelhouse Lane will host Django Chutney for a free lunchtime jazz performance on July 29 as part of the Colmore Jazz Festival. Davenports Brewery, which owns the pub, will also provide complimentary canapés during the 12:30–2:30pm event and is advising customers to arrive early.

The Wolverhampton & District branch of the Royal Air Forces Association, based on Goldthorn Road since the late 1950s, is seeking to reverse years of declining membership and make its headquarters more visible and welcoming to the wider community. Treasurer and former RAF serviceman Philip Morgan says the branch is introducing new activities, wellbeing initiatives, social events and outreach through social media while continuing to support serving and former RAF personnel. The branch’s premises, including its lounge, snooker room, meeting spaces and green outdoor areas, are being maintained through fundraising and community events.

Comedian Phil Ellis explains that his comedy career began in the Midlands, where he performed his first gigs and developed through local venues including Stourbridge and the Juice Comedy night. Speaking after appearing at Wolverhampton’s Midlands Fringe, he praises the festival’s venue and staff and says it is becoming a significant event. His appearance featured a condensed, work-in-progress version of his “Bath Mat” show ahead of the Edinburgh Fringe, with the main aim of giving audiences an enjoyable hour of comedy.

Ten pubs, takeaways, dessert shops and restaurants across the West Midlands and nearby areas are listed for sale or leasehold prices below £50,000. Prices range from £10,000 for the Hopton Crown leasehold near Cleobury Mortimer to £49,950 for Fireaway Pizza premises in Walsall. The listings include businesses in Welshpool, Willenhall, Darlaston, Smethwick, Bloxwich, Dudley, West Bromwich and Bearwood, with details on rents, lease terms, equipment, accommodation, turnover and reported footfall.

A walk through Wolverhampton city centre identifies food and restaurants representing 22 countries, spanning Turkish, Polish, Afghan, Italian, Thai, Bangladeshi, Japanese, Caribbean, African, Chinese, South African, Mexican and Spanish cuisines, among others. The survey excludes venues outside the ring road and counts countries according to each venue’s primary cuisine, while acknowledging that some classifications—such as Taiwan—are debatable. The writer concludes that Wolverhampton’s culinary diversity reflects its multicultural population and invites readers to suggest countries that were missed.

A guide identifies more than 50 pubs, bars and clubs within a one-mile radius of Molineux Stadium in Wolverhampton. The venues are listed by distance, ranging from The Leaping Wolf 0.1 miles away to several establishments one mile from the stadium, offering Wolves supporters options for drinks before or after matches.

The 49th Wolverhampton Summer Festival of Beer & Cider is taking place at Wolverhampton Arts Centre from July 23 to 25, featuring more than 40 beers, ciders and perries, live music and local bands. Organized by Wolverhampton CAMRA as part of its 50th-anniversary celebrations, the festival includes a new partnership with Springbanks Brewery, which launched its first IPA at the event. Funds raised are being donated to ARC - The Ashmore Rescue For Cats.

A man was found with stab wounds on Dimbles Lane in Lichfield after Staffordshire Police responded to reports of a disturbance in the early hours of 24 July. He was taken to hospital in serious condition, and a large police cordon was established at the scene.

The Diocese of Lichfield expressed shame and sorrow after former school chaplain Edward Phillips‑Smith received a two‑year community order for sexually abusing two boys more than four decades ago. Phillips‑Smith had previously served a prison sentence for similar offences. The diocese encouraged any remaining victims to come forward, noted its cooperation with police, and said it will update the Charity Commission about the case.

KIBOU Japanese Kitchen & Bar will open a new 200-cover restaurant in Birmingham’s Colmore Business District, offering a menu of classic and contemporary Japanese dishes along with a dedicated bar serving cocktails, whisky, sake and umeshu. The interior will be designed by Q&A Interior Design with murals by artist Martyna Sabadasz. The expansion follows the company’s strongest trading year and adds to existing sites including Solihull, Battersea, Cheltenham, Bristol, Cambridge and Oxford. Managing director Sam Horswill highlighted the brand’s long-standing interest in Birmingham and its continued growth ambitions.

Wolves became the first Championship club to adopt a staff policy based on Hugh’s Law, offering immediate paid leave and job protection to employees whose children are critically ill. The initiative, inspired by the advocacy of Ceri and Frances Menai-Davis after the death of their son Hugh, aims to ease financial pressures on affected families. Following Brentford’s earlier adoption within the Premier League, Wolves seeks to encourage broader uptake across football and other sectors. Club representatives and the Hugh’s Law founders emphasised the policy’s importance in supporting families during severe hardship.

A newly established business, Springbanks Brewery, will introduce its first two beers—an English IPA and a traditional mild—at the Wolverhampton Summer Festival of Beer and Cider. The brewery aims to celebrate and preserve the city’s 150‑year brewing heritage and is sponsoring the festival. Formed after the closure of major local breweries, Springbanks operates one of the few remaining Burton Union fermentation systems and is developing a wider range of ales. Visitors can sample the new beers at the festival, which includes an extensive lineup curated by Wolverhampton CAMRA.

A Volkswagen Tiguan remains embedded in a house on Huntington Terrace Road in Cannock more than three weeks after a June 28 crash that left a nine-year-old with serious leg injuries. Local residents described hearing a loud bang and initially thinking the collision was a medical emergency. Repair crews and insurance specialists are working on structural damage while the homeowner stays elsewhere. The vehicle has not yet been removed due to insurance and structural concerns. Staffordshire Police have been approached for comment.

A man identified as Kieron Walker has been charged with multiple offences, including assault, threats to kill, harassment, criminal damage and obstructing a railway engine, following incidents in Leek and near Rugeley Trent Valley railway station. Police reported that a woman was assaulted and property damaged before a separate report of a man on top of a storage container near the station. Walker appeared at North Staffordshire Justice Centre and has been bailed ahead of a scheduled appearance at Stafford Crown Court in August.

Police arrested four men and a 15-year-old boy after pursuing a stolen car taken from Hockley and stopping it in Edgbaston. The suspects fled but were quickly detained on suspicion of vehicle theft. Authorities highlighted the impact of vehicle crime and their commitment to tackling it.

West Midlands Police continue to investigate a large-scale disturbance involving teenagers in Halesowen town centre after two boys arrested on suspicion of violent disorder were released with no further action. Shops temporarily locked their doors and buses were diverted during the incident, which occurred midday Saturday. Police are appealing for witnesses and any CCTV or mobile phone footage to help identify those involved.

Bus services X10 and 80 in Sandwell will be diverted due to scheduled gas and broadband connection works affecting routes in Cradley Heath and Smethwick, with National Express West Midlands advising passengers of temporary road closures and alternative routing during the specified dates.

A section of Tinacre Hill in Wightwick is closed from July 20 to August 2 for Cadent Gas pipe replacement work, with Wolverhampton Council advising motorists of diversion routes. Cadent states that the upgrade involves replacing old pipes with new plastic ones and may require temporary gas supply interruptions.

Multiple fire crews from West Midlands and Staffordshire responded to a blaze at the former Wolverhampton College campus, with firefighters determining the ground‑floor fire was likely started deliberately. The operation was scaled down by the evening, and checks found no remaining hotspots. Wolverhampton College leadership thanked emergency services and plans to strengthen security at the vacant site following recent unauthorized access. Police have launched an arson investigation and are seeking information from the public.

Midlands Hurricanes secured an emphatic 42-4 victory over Rochdale Hornets with eight tries, extending their winning streak to three. Strong defence and sharp attacking play defined the match, with standout performances from Lewis Else and James Woodburn-Hall, each scoring twice. Additional tries from Luis Roberts, Jon-Luke Kirby, Aidan McGowan and Sully Medforth cemented the dominant home win. Despite injuries and a brief confrontation following a high tackle, the Hurricanes maintained control throughout, conceding only a late consolation try. They now prepare to face unbeaten league leaders London Broncos.

Thirty pubs across the West Midlands were recognised in the Telegraph’s Best Pubs in the UK 2026 guide, with locations in Birmingham, the Black Country, Staffordshire and Shropshire included. The guide features both long-standing favourites and new additions, highlighting heritage venues, award‑winning pubs and those recognised by CAMRA. Notable mentions include The Great Western in Wolverhampton, The Olde Swan in Netherton, The Tamworth Tap in Tamworth and The Bailey Head in Oswestry.

Staffordshire Police issued a CCTV appeal to identify two individuals on a motorbike suspected of attempting to steal a Mercedes GLC in Wombourne and later stealing a BMW X3 from Penleigh Gardens. The suspects allegedly used relay devices and disrupted a vehicle tracker. Officers urged anyone with information or relevant footage to contact them or Crimestoppers.

Several Walsall bus routes were diverted after a vehicle broke down on Stafford Street, affecting the 29, 31, 32 and X51 services. National Express West Midlands advised passengers that the routes were temporarily redirected via alternative streets toward destinations including Bloxwich, Cannock and Blakenall, leading to longer travel times.

A sinkhole discovered on Sutton Road in Kidderminster prompted Worcestershire County Council to close the road while working with utility companies to determine the cause. The council said repairs will begin as soon as feasible, with barriers and road teams already in place at the site.

Black Country Radio and Black Country Xtra have expanded their reach by joining a new DAB multiplex in Walsall, enabling wider access to their music, news and community programming. The launch at Bescot Stadium brought together local organisations and officials, including Walsall’s mayor. Station leaders highlighted the move as a major step in strengthening local broadcasting, fostering community connections and providing additional promotional opportunities for charities and businesses across the borough.

TikTok personality Spudman will visit Rugeley on July 25 to distribute free jacket potatoes and prizes as part of a promotional event celebrating London Northwestern Railway’s new Class 730 trains serving the Trent Valley route. Rugeley won a regional competition to host the pop‑up, and the event will take place at Rugeley Market Square. Fans can sign up online for a chance to receive limited free food and exclusive prizes, continuing Spudman’s collaboration with the rail operator.

Richard Strickland received an 11-year prison sentence for causing the death of his passenger, Deepak Nayyar, after speeding and veering into oncoming traffic in Tipton. Nayyar later died in hospital, and another driver suffered serious injuries. Strickland admitted the charges at a prior hearing. Nayyar’s family paid tribute to him, while police condemned Strickland’s disregard for safety.

Emergency services responded to a collision between a car and a motorbike on Delph Road near Brierley Hill, where the motorcyclist sustained non-serious injuries and was taken to Russell’s Hall Hospital. The car’s driver remained at the scene and spoke with police, who are seeking further information from the public.

West Midlands Police issued an appeal for information on the whereabouts of Dean Gould, a 37-year-old from Walsall wanted for bail offences after being charged with assault, asking anyone with relevant information to call 999 quoting the provided crime reference number.

Police appealed for witnesses after a man in his 60s died at the scene following a car collision at the junction of Ring Road and Stafford Street in Wolverhampton. The driver remained on site and cooperated with the inquiry, and investigators requested dash‑cam footage or information quoting log 5114 of 13 July.

Organisers of the Midlands Fringe festival describe expanded programming, strong audience feedback and increased Arts Council funding as key factors in the event’s growth. The festival will run across nine Wolverhampton venues with an eclectic lineup and headliners Phil Ellis, Shazia Mirza and Dunstan Bruce. Volunteers will support reviews and front‑of‑house operations, and organisers emphasise community involvement and regional representation as the event aims to establish itself within the national fringe scene.

Hamstead Primary School in Great Barr is described as a nurturing, community‑focused environment that prepares pupils aged three to eleven for future education and life skills through a broad curriculum, extensive extracurricular activities and strong core values. Headteacher Nick Fowler highlights initiatives such as music programmes, Forest School sessions, reading stimulation efforts and community projects, while acknowledging budget constraints. The school emphasises personal growth, wellbeing and family‑centred support over grades, aiming to cultivate confident and well‑rounded young people.

KFC marked 50 years in the West Midlands by announcing a £60 million economic contribution, the opening of 75 restaurants and the support of 2,300 jobs. Consumer research showed the region leads the UK in demand for fried chicken and is driving a shift toward boneless options, with the Boneless Banquet topping sales. The company expanded its boneless offerings with a new Tenders & Dips range and plans further limited‑time items. Alongside commercial growth, KFC highlighted its youth development work, food donation programmes and upcoming brand refresh, all part of a wider UK and Ireland expansion strategy involving 500 new restaurants and thousands of additional jobs.

A popular Stourbridge pub, Cock'N'Bull.Co, has been named a finalist for Best Town Pub at the 2026 Great British Pub Awards in recognition of its strong community presence, innovative food concepts and distinctive atmosphere. Marketing manager Siobhan O’Connor highlighted improvements such as the revamped Yard and Beyond beer garden and new barbecue‑focused menu. Staff retention, long‑service benefits and family‑style culture are credited for stability during a challenging period for UK pubs, with the venue emphasizing value through offers like free children’s meals and a varied dining and events experience.

A memorial cycling event, Ride for Joe, will return to Wolverhampton on July 19 to honour 16-year-old cyclist Joe Guy, who died in 2017 after being struck by a van. The ride’s tenth edition offers 30‑mile, 50‑mile and new 44‑mile gravel routes starting at Aldersley Stadium, with proceeds supporting the Midlands Air Ambulance Charity. Wolverhampton Wheelers president Hugh Porter emphasised the strong community support and the event’s significance to Joe’s family. More than £40,000 has been raised over previous years, and registration remains open up to the day of the event.

Bilston traders and local leaders voiced pride in their town after it failed to make the shortlist for Britain’s first Town of Culture competition, which excluded all West Midlands entries. Councillor Stephen Simkins criticised the decision and pledged continued support for Bilston’s cultural ambitions. Traders highlighted the town’s recent improvements, including a new outdoor market and revitalised carnival, expressing disappointment but maintaining confidence in Bilston’s growing reputation.

A range of restaurant and takeaway leaseholds across the Black Country are listed for under £50,000, including dessert shops, cafes, pizza businesses, fish and chip shops, and burger bars in areas such as Willenhall, Darlaston, Smethwick, Bloxwich, Dudley, West Bromwich, Bearwood and Walsall. Listings outline lease terms, rents, equipment included, sales turnover and location advantages, with prices starting at £18,500 and rising to just under £50,000.

A food artist created a large portrait of England midfielder Jude Bellingham using 998 Aldi Breaded Chicken Football Players to celebrate England’s World Cup quarter-final appearance following their win over Mexico. The artwork also promotes Aldi’s new chicken product launching July 16. Praise for Bellingham’s recent performance and comments from Aldi’s chief commercial officer highlight growing excitement ahead of England’s match against Norway.

A mother reflects on the fourth anniversary of her son Ronan Kanda’s fatal stabbing in a mistaken‑identity knife attack in Wolverhampton, expressing grief, describing his role in their family, and pledging to honour his memory through efforts to prevent knife crime and protect children from similar harm.

A major fire broke out at Longacre Industrial Estate in Willenhall, prompting the deployment of eight fire engines and road closures in the surrounding area. Emergency services responded shortly after 5 p.m., laying hoses and working to contain the blaze. The cause remains unknown, and no injuries have been reported. Authorities are advising the public to avoid the area while crews continue operations.

Firefighters extinguished a blaze that destroyed a parked car and burned nearby trees and grassland on Bridgnorth Road in Wombourne. One lane was closed during the response, and crews left the scene after about 90 minutes. A resident said the car ignited after nearby trees caught fire, and no injuries were reported.

West Midlands Police released an image of a man they want to identify in connection with the theft of a phone from a pub on Alum Rock Road in Birmingham on June 4 and urged the public to provide information via Live Chat or by calling 101 with the referenced crime number.

An 18‑year‑old man, Rekhi Jeffers, has been charged with possessing an offensive weapon after police recovered a knife from a property on Poplar Green in Dudley. West Midlands Police confirmed he is due to appear at Dudley Magistrates Court next month and urged the public to report information about weapon possession through official channels or anonymously via Crimestoppers.

Fire crews from West Midlands Fire Service responded to a back‑garden fire between Bradley Road and Carshalton Grove in the All Saints area of Wolverhampton, where smoke was seen rising as firefighters used a hose reel to extinguish the blaze.

Emergency crews responded to reports of a woman falling near Lincomb Lock on the River Severn in Stourport. West Midlands Ambulance Service treated her for non‑serious injuries and transported her to Worcester Royal Hospital.

Service disruptions affected both ends of the West Midlands Metro line due to a broken‑down tram near Grand Central in Birmingham and a signalling issue in Wolverhampton. No trams operated between Grand Central and Edgbaston Village, and services did not stop at Pipers Row or Wolverhampton Station, with trams running only between Wolverhampton St Georges and Grand Central. The operator apologised for the inconvenience.

Amir Khan received a 30‑year prison sentence at Birmingham Crown Court after being convicted of attempting to murder a woman he attacked in Hockley, causing severe and permanent brain injuries. West Midlands Police determined that his explanation of an accidental fall was false, and Khan provided no comment during interviews. Detectives highlighted the seriousness of the violence and the significant impact on the victim and her family, noting that the sentence reflects the gravity of the crime.

Fans at the Crown pub in Bridgnorth gathered early to watch England defeat Mexico 3-2 in the World Cup Round of 16, enduring a tense, weather-delayed match. Supporters shared mixed feelings before kickoff, citing concerns about altitude and home advantage, but celebrated England’s hard-fought win that secured a place in the quarterfinals.

Hayer Carriers Ltd has applied for a Goods Vehicle Operator’s Licence to use Eveready Yard on Lower Walsall Street in Wolverhampton as an operating centre for two vehicles and two trailers. The Traffic Commissioner is inviting written representations from nearby landowners who believe they may be affected, with submissions due by July 24 and copies to be sent to the applicant.

Staffordshire Council plans to repair 40,000 potholes by March 2027 with support from 14 additional crews as part of £15 million in new highways funding. The investment will focus on lower‑level potholes and deploy new repair methods such as screeding and urban velocity patching to improve efficiency and ensure suitable machinery is available for each task.

Seven West Midlands Fire Service personnel returned to the UK after assisting international rescue efforts in earthquake‑stricken Venezuela. The team carried out building searches, assessed humanitarian needs and supported other search units, with operations coordinated through a dedicated incident room at the service’s headquarters. Senior leaders praised the professionalism and resilience of those deployed and highlighted the extensive preparation required for such missions, with welfare support now provided to returning staff.

West Midlands Police issued an appeal for public assistance in locating 29‑year‑old Karl Gibbs, who is wanted for failing to appear in court on criminal damage charges in Oldbury. The public is urged to report sightings by calling 101 and quoting the provided reference number.

Walsall Police issued an urgent appeal to locate Anthony, a 61-year-old man missing from Walsall with known links to Wombourne. He was last seen wearing grey jogging bottoms, a blue short-sleeve top and black shoes with paint stains. The public is asked to call 999 with information quoting PID 461275.

Passengers travelling between Wolverhampton and Walsall face delays and cancellations after West Midlands Railway reported that an unavailable train crew is affecting services, with disruption expected to continue for the rest of the day.

A Walsall man, Terry Langley, has been charged with attempted murder and several related offences after a woman was seriously injured in a stabbing in Norton Canes. Staffordshire Police stated that he remains in custody and is due to appear at North Staffordshire Justice Centre. The victim is in serious but stable condition in hospital.

Police launched a witness appeal after a motorcyclist sustained life-changing leg injuries in a collision at the junction of Cooks Lane in Kingshurst. Officers reported that the car driver remained at the scene and is cooperating with the investigation. CCTV and witness accounts are being reviewed, and authorities are requesting dashcam footage or information related to the incident.

Police raided a property on Leighswood Avenue in Aldridge, recovering several non‑viable firearms and knives and arresting a 24‑year‑old man on suspicion of weapons offences as part of Operation Target’s wider effort to tackle serious and organised crime.

Police arrested a man on suspicion of murder and two others on suspicion of assisting an offender after a man was fatally stabbed in a Wolverhampton city‑centre car park. The victim was found with a chest injury in the early hours of Sunday and died at the scene. Clarence Street remained cordoned off as police continued their investigation.

A man in his twenties died after being found with a chest stab wound in a Wolverhampton car park early Sunday. Police arrested a 32‑year‑old man on suspicion of murder and two others on suspicion of assisting an offender. Clarence Street remained cordoned off as forensic work, CCTV review and door‑to‑door inquiries continued. Authorities urged anyone with information to contact them.

Police and Dudley Council conducted a targeted operation in Halesowen to address antisocial behaviour and illegal use of off‑road and electric bikes, deploying specialist resources and patrols in hotspot areas. Officers seized an e‑bike, issued tickets and warnings, and spoke with families about safety and legal requirements. Local officials highlighted community concerns and emphasised ongoing joint efforts and the need for residents to report incidents.

Five roads in Stourbridge town centre are closed until 8pm for the Stourbridge Carnival, with diversions routed via the Ring Road as advised by West Midlands Roads.

Police cordoned off Clarence Street in Wolverhampton city centre, placing a blue tent near a car park by Living Waters Church. Several police vehicles and officers were at the scene, and churchgoers were redirected. Potters House Church announced the cancellation of services due to the ongoing investigation. West Midlands Police have been contacted for comment.

Police launched an investigation after shots were fired from a vehicle at a house on Foley Road in Birmingham, the second such incident at the property within days. No injuries were reported, and the family involved has been safeguarded. Officers are reviewing CCTV, conducting door‑to‑door inquiries and maintaining a visible presence in the area while urging the public to provide information or footage related to the attack.

Bilston Carnival returned to Hickman Park for the first time since 2008, drawing large crowds for a day of music, performances, parades and community activities. The event opened with a 1960s‑themed procession featuring local officials, while organisations, charities and schools hosted stalls and displays throughout the park. Attendees and community groups welcomed the revival, viewing it as a boost to Bilston’s civic spirit. The carnival’s comeback was supported through the Pride in Place Regeneration Programme, with government officials praising the community‑driven effort.

A new memorial honouring football enthusiast Joel Richards has been unveiled at Ray Hall Lane in Great Barr on the 11th anniversary of his death in the 2015 Tunisia attack. The Birmingham Football Association installed a silver plaque depicting Joel in a referee’s shirt, accompanied by an inscription celebrating his legacy. His mother Suzy and brother Owen attended the unveiling, with Suzy describing the installation as a powerful and emotional tribute. She highlighted Joel’s continuing influence through the work of Smile for Joel and The Development Fund, noting that the memorial will help ensure his legacy inspires visitors and future generations.

Police patrolling Wombourne detained a suspicious man who attempted to distance himself from a vehicle, leading officers to discover phones, cash and vehicle keys on him. A search of the vehicle uncovered large quantities of Class A and Class B drugs, along with scales and other drug‑supply items. Staffordshire Police described the operation as a strong example of neighbourhood policing responding to community reports of anti‑social behaviour.

Three males, including 18-year-old Soleh Uzair and two 17-year-olds, were charged with attempted murder after a 19-year-old man was stabbed in daylight on Market Square in Oldbury. The suspects were remanded to appear at Wolverhampton Magistrates Court, while the victim remains in serious but stable condition. West Midlands Police continue to investigate and have appealed for witnesses or information, directing the public to contact them or Crimestoppers anonymously.

A fire at Dudley Council’s Blowers Green Waste Depot was determined to have started accidentally following a review of CCTV footage. West Midlands Fire Service deployed multiple crews to extinguish the blaze, which began in a cardboard storage area late on July 3 and was declared out by early morning. The depot was evacuated without injuries, and the council is assessing any broader impact on waste services while cooperating with police and fire investigators.

Rising temperatures are forecast across the West Midlands as a new heatwave develops, with highs approaching the low 30s Celsius through the coming week. The Met Office and UK Health Security Agency have issued yellow heat health alerts for much of England due to expected impacts on vulnerable individuals and health services. Local forecasts indicate temperatures between 26°C and 30°C across areas including Wolverhampton, Stafford and Wyre Forest, following last week’s record‑setting heatwave in which the UK provisionally reached 37.7°C.

Police in Nottinghamshire and Staffordshire issued an urgent appeal to locate Haydn, last seen in Kimberley on June 29 and believed to have links to Staffordshire. Authorities released a description of the missing individual and urged anyone with information to contact them quoting the relevant incident number.

Police are seeking the owner of a Belgian Malinois after a woman in her forties was bitten on the chest in Broad Lanes, Wolverhampton on June 12. Officers provided a description of the man handling the dog and urged anyone with information to contact them or report anonymously to Crimestoppers.

Police issued an appeal for help locating 16-year-old Olivia from Walsall, last seen at 3pm on July 3. Officers released her description and urged the public to call 999 with any information, quoting the relevant log number.

Motorists are advised of temporary and rolling road closures in Bilston and Pelsall during their annual carnivals. Broad Street in Bilston and Norton Road in Pelsall will remain closed until late afternoon, with additional rolling closures for carnival parades on surrounding routes as announced by West Midlands Roads.

Fans at Bar Sport in Cannock experienced tension and eventual relief as England came from behind to beat DR Congo in the World Cup Round of 32. The venue was busy despite the early evening kick-off, with supporters expressing nerves before the match and frustration after England conceded early. Harry Kane’s two goals turned the atmosphere into celebration as England advanced. Bar owner Scott Murray reported strong business during the tournament, while guest Jon Purdie praised the team’s improvement and the bar’s event offerings.

Police closed a section of the B4176 Bridgnorth Road in Wombourne after an incident, with diversions routed through nearby roads causing heavier traffic. Emergency services were present at the scene, and both Staffordshire Police and West Midlands Ambulance Service were contacted for further details.

The Wolverhampton Summer Festival of Beer & Cider returns from July 23 to 25 at the Wolverhampton Arts Centre, featuring more than 40 beers, ciders and perry varieties, along with live entertainment. Organised by Wolverhampton CAMRA, the event marks the branch’s 50th anniversary and includes a partnership with Springbanks Brewery, which will debut a new IPA. Additional contributions come from Kinver Brewery and Newbridge Brewery. The festival begins with a quiet day focused on conversation, followed by music-filled sessions, with proceeds supporting ARC - The Ashmore Rescue For Cats.

West Midlands Police issued an appeal to locate 31-year-old Jordon Ryan, wanted on suspicion of wounding in Wolverhampton, urging the public to call emergency services with any relevant information and providing a crime reference number for reports.

West Midlands Police issued an appeal for information on the whereabouts of 50-year-old Mark Curtis, who is wanted in connection with shop thefts in Wolverhampton, urging the public to call 999 with relevant details.

Police appealed for help identifying a man linked to multiple shop thefts across the Black Country, with stores in Coseley and Tipton targeted on June 4. Electrical items, food and cleaning products were stolen. CCTV inquiries led officers to seek information from the public using a crime reference number, with anonymous reporting also available via Crimestoppers.

A serious collision closed the southbound M5 between Junctions 1 and 2 in the early morning, causing delays and congestion before reopening around 5:48am. National Highways reported traffic holds and later confirmed reduced delays as emergency services worked at the scene, with further details awaited from the ambulance service.

A signalling fault between Stafford and Crewe has blocked some lines, causing train cancellations and delays for northbound passengers. London Northwestern Railway said tickets can be used on East Midlands Railway services between Crewe and Stoke-on-Trent at no extra cost.

Hundreds of participants completed laps at Aldersley Stadium for the Best Foot Forward fundraiser, generating £12,000 for three Wolverhampton charities despite hot conditions reducing overall laps from the previous year. Organised by the Rotary Club of the City of Wolverhampton and supported by local organisations, the long-running event maintained its strong community spirit. Organisers and participants, including former Wolves striker Mel Eves, highlighted growing engagement and the event’s ongoing value to local causes.