Jamie Singleton

Forensic investigators and uniformed police remained at a property on Orange Close in Highworth after a woman sustained serious injuries in an incident being investigated as attempted murder. A 70-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder. Police said there was no wider risk to the public and that no other suspects were being sought, while a cordon and road closure remained in place during the investigation.

Emergency crews extinguished a large nine‑hectare field fire near Castle Eaton, Swindon, after being called at 1:27 p.m. Multiple fire appliances from Dorset and Wiltshire Fire Service and Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue Service used hose reel jets, beaters and farm machinery to control the blaze involving standing crops, with the incident declared over at 3:18 p.m.

Prime Minister Andy Burnham announced a nationwide £2 cap on bus fares during a visit to Bath, describing it as a measure to ease cost-of-living pressures. The plan will run through 2027 and be funded partly by shifting international climate finance from grants to loans, drawing criticism from Friends of the Earth. The initiative includes £454 million in funding and allows devolved governments to adopt similar measures, replacing the previous fare cap that ended in 2024.

A father identified as Alex Daines died in a motorcycle crash on the A4 near Avebury, prompting floral tributes at the scene and an online fundraiser set up by Dom Bate. Family messages and community donations highlight support for his wife and children, with the GoFundMe campaign raising nearly £1,000 as tributes describe him as a loving husband, father and friend.

A newly published Canal & River Trust guide highlights top canal locations across Wiltshire and the South West, noting their historic structures, natural scenery, and recreational opportunities. The Trust emphasizes rising visitor numbers and promotes the wellbeing benefits of spending time near waterways. Featured sites include Bath Locks, Dundas and Avoncliff aqueducts, Bradford on Avon Wharf, Seend Locks, Caen Hill Locks, Devizes Wharf, and Crofton Pumping Station, with additional recommendations across neighboring counties.

A man suffered a serious hand injury during a reported assault at the junction of Commercial Road and Morley Street in Swindon. Police stated that a group gathered to watch the fight and appealed for witnesses or anyone with footage to come forward, offering contact details for both Wiltshire Police and Crimestoppers.

A collision between a car and a van closed the M4 in Wiltshire between junctions 16 and 17 as emergency services responded. Fire crews from Westlea, Swindon and Stratton freed one casualty using hydraulic rescue equipment after being called just after 8pm, with the incident concluded at 9.49pm.

Coate Water Park’s splash park in Swindon was closed unexpectedly due to an equipment breakdown, prompting urgent maintenance work and an apology from Swindon Borough Council. The closure occurred on a warm, busy day at the park, with officials stating they will update the public once the attraction reopens.

Police closed Bath Road in Swindon’s Old Town around midday following an undisclosed incident, causing long traffic queues as motorists were diverted. A recovery vehicle removed a heavily damaged Volkswagen hatchback from the scene before the road reopened shortly after 1pm. Authorities are seeking further information from Wiltshire Police.

Wiltshire Police are searching for 39-year-old John-Paul Gregory of Swindon, who is wanted in connection with criminal damage, burglary and assault. Authorities urged the public to report sightings or information to the police using reference 54260080698.

Police discovered more than 150 cannabis plants inside a long-empty house on Kingshill Road in Swindon after an electricity company reported concerns. Officers secured the property, assessed safety issues, and maintained a cordon while investigations continued, with plans to seek a closure order. Local residents expressed surprise at the scale of the operation and the activity at the house.

Police are appealing for help locating Faith, a 15-year-old last seen in Pewsey on July 8. She is described as 5ft 7ins with long dark hair, wearing a black T‑shirt and shorts, and may have links to Swindon. Anyone with information is urged to call 999 quoting reference 54260082041.

Local officials in Kempsford are gathering residents’ concerns following a major surge in US bomber activity at RAF Fairford since the start of the America–Iran conflict. Although activity has recently decreased with the return of B52H aircraft to the United States, some bombers remain and further investment in the base’s operational capabilities is expected. The parish council plans two public meetings to identify issues such as noise and increased traffic from aviation enthusiasts, aiming to work with UK and US authorities on mitigation measures including potential sound barriers.

Police and Trading Standards officers searched a business on Cricklade Road in Swindon, seizing a machete-style knife and about £10,000 worth of counterfeit and illicit tobacco products. A man was arrested on suspicion of selling goods with packaging resembling registered trademarks and later released on bail. Authorities stated that such illegal activity undermines community welfare and harms the local and national economy, urging the public to report suspicious behaviour.

Strong winds forced organisers of the Swindon Balloon Festival to cancel all balloon flights on the opening evening at Lydiard Park, disappointing attendees despite favourable sunshine. After a safety briefing, pilots determined conditions were too gusty, though some balloons were tethered for display. Organisers reassured visitors that entertainment would continue and expressed hope for flights the following day.

A Yamaha MW125 Tricity 125 motor scooter was stolen from a garden on Chandos Close in Swindon between June 19 and June 22. Wiltshire Police issued an appeal for information, providing the vehicle’s description and registration number and asking the public to report any leads using reference 54260074672.