Josh Payne

Multiple wildfires spread across the West Midlands during the UK’s hottest day of the year, damaging homes, forcing evacuations and sending a child and three firefighters to hospital. The largest incidents affected Stourbridge, Pershore, Goldenhill and Salford Priors, while smoke closed part of the M6 and firefighting reduced water pressure in parts of Staffordshire. Emergency services faced extreme demand, with one fire declared a major incident, and local councillors warned that the events highlighted the region’s vulnerability to climate change.

England fans expressed optimism mixed with anxiety ahead of the World Cup semi-final against Argentina, citing both confidence in players like Jude Bellingham and concerns over Lionel Messi’s threat. Supporters gathered in Atlanta and across England shared hopes of reaching the final for the first time since 1966, with some framing the match as an opportunity for long-awaited revenge over past rivalries. Police in both Atlanta and England increased security measures in anticipation of large crowds, while fan zones and pubs prepared for heightened turnout.

A lifelong England supporter who witnessed Maradona’s 1986 “Hand of God” goal expressed regret over choosing not to attend England’s recent dramatic 3-2 win at the Estadio Azteca. Paul Dubberley, who has followed England through 11 World Cups, reflected on how following the team has become more expensive and less fan‑friendly over the decades. He described the contrast between the simplicity of attending matches in 1986 and the challenges modern supporters face, while recalling that most England fans at the time did not realise Maradona had handled the ball due to limited visibility and lack of replays.

England prepare for their late‑night World Cup match against Mexico amid altitude concerns, hostile home‑crowd traditions and storm forecasts, with police enforcing road closures to prevent disruptions near the team hotel. Thomas Tuchel urges calm focus despite the challenges, while Harry Kane hopes fans will enjoy extended pub hours introduced by Keir Starmer to watch the 1am UK‑time kickoff. British officials advise supporters in Mexico City to follow safety guidance, and fans express mixed expectations for the match.

Lord Peter Mandelson was arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office following allegations that he shared sensitive government information with Jeffrey Epstein while serving as business secretary. Police previously searched two of his properties, and emails from 2009 in the recently released Epstein files appear to show him relaying policy assessments and details of forthcoming economic measures. The Crown Prosecution Service has not yet offered investigative advice, and the Cabinet Office has forwarded material to police after determining safeguards were compromised. Government officials confirmed that documents related to Mandelson’s appointment as US ambassador will be released soon, though some will be delayed due to the investigation. Mandelson denies recollection of payments from Epstein. His arrest follows that of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, who faces similar allegations of sharing sensitive information with Epstein.