John Scheerhout

Lee Hevingham, 41, was sentenced to three years and six months in prison after admitting breaching a restraining order, criminal damage and assault occasioning actual bodily harm against his former partner, Charlotte Bridgeman. He attacked her after an alcohol-fuelled meeting, smashing her phone into her forehead and repeatedly punching her. Bridgeman described lasting physical and psychological trauma, including complex PTSD, nightmares and fear for her safety and that of her children. The court highlighted Hevingham's extensive criminal record, repeated domestic violence and breaches of protective orders, rejecting any suggestion that Bridgeman's contact with him reduced his responsibility.

Passengers on a Ryanair flight from Barcelona to Manchester were left on the aircraft for more than two hours in extreme heat reportedly exceeding 40C, leading to fainting and distress among adults and children. Travellers described a lack of information and being charged for water before eventually being allowed off the plane and later reboarding after conditions improved. The flight departed after midnight following delays attributed by Ryanair to thunderstorms, with passengers receiving limited vouchers despite closed terminal shops.

A leading lawyer argues that Manchester Airport’s £100 late payment charges for its barrierless parking system may not be legally enforceable because airport land governed by bylaws is unlikely to qualify as relevant land under the Protection of Freedoms Act 2012. Without this designation, operators cannot pursue registered keepers unless the driver is identified. He also questions the proportionality of the fees and highlights potential issues with signage and contract formation. Airport officials insist the charges are valid and urge motorists not to risk non-payment, while APCOA maintains its compliance with industry standards.