Jon Macpherson

A 14-year-old girl, Shelby Quigley, received the Royal Humane Society Silver Medal for attempting to save 15-year-old Lotus Bowker from drowning in the River Wyre. She entered the water, kept him afloat and maintained efforts until additional help arrived, though the boy later died in hospital. An inquest detailed the events leading to his death, including his inability to swim and a developmental learning disorder that affected his understanding of risk. Multiple bystanders and medical professionals attempted lifesaving interventions, but the cause of death was confirmed as drowning.

A Lancashire couple, Terrence and Sadie Boyd, received suspended sentences and a 10‑year ban on keeping animals after dumping their elderly dog Maddie in a canal, leading to her euthanasia due to severe health issues. CCTV footage and witness accounts confirmed the act, prompting emergency services and the RSPCA to intervene. Seven malnourished kittens and a neglected corn snake were also removed from their unsanitary home. The RSPCA praised the public and emergency responders for their efforts as surviving animals were rehomed.