Kim Pilling

Pamela Gwinnett received an additional two months in prison at Preston Crown Court after admitting she breached bail by fleeing to Tenerife and failing to surrender her passport. She had already been sentenced to six years in absentia for stealing about £300,000 from 89-year-old Joan Green, whose finances she controlled as a carer after isolating her from family and securing power of attorney. Gwinnett was extradited from Spain after being arrested at her Tenerife apartment. The judge rejected her claims that fear, anxiety and poor mental health explained her flight, and ordered her to repay the stolen funds.

CCTV footage shows 19‑year‑old Louisa Tunstall inhaling nitrous oxide while driving before veering onto a pavement in Wigan, hitting a pedestrian and overturning her Fiat 500. The victim suffered life‑changing injuries. Tunstall received a 20‑month custodial sentence at Bolton Crown Court for drug possession, drug‑impaired driving, and causing serious injury by dangerous driving.

Police in Liverpool seized more than 100 kilos of cocaine valued at £10 million during a raid at a home in Old Swan, arresting a 53-year-old woman on suspicion of drug supply offences. The operation followed another seizure of 38 kilos of suspected cocaine from a van in Roby, leading to the arrest of a 40-year-old man. Merseyside Police, through Project Medusa, emphasized the harm caused by organised crime and highlighted ongoing efforts to disrupt county lines activity and safeguard vulnerable individuals.

Police arrested three people in connection with suspected money laundering and possible fraud exceeding £1 million at the University of Greater Manchester. The investigation, initiated after allegations from The Mill and a PwC report, involves multiple property raids across northern England and the analysis of around 60 transactions and more than a million emails. Greater Manchester Police are preparing evidence for potential prosecution while emphasizing the impact on students. The university, whose vice‑chancellor and senior staff were suspended last year, says it continues to cooperate fully and operate normally.

A man received an eight-year prison sentence for creating a fake dating profile of his former partner to send dozens of men to her home under false claims involving sexual fantasies, leading to a break‑in and prolonged fear for the victim. The court attributed his actions to jealousy and controlling behaviour following the end of their relationship. He was convicted of stalking, assault and failing to disclose a device passcode, and given a 15‑year restraining order. Police described the case as unusually complex and disturbing.

A man was sentenced to eight years in prison after creating a fake Tinder profile of his former partner to lure dozens of men to her home under the guise of a rape fantasy. The court detailed a pattern of controlling behavior, stalking and assault, with one man forcing entry and damaging property. The victim described severe emotional trauma and ongoing fear. The judge issued a 15‑year restraining order, and police highlighted the technical complexity and seriousness of the case, emphasizing the significant distress caused to the victim and her family.

A 21-year-old man, Mohammed Fahir Amaaz, received a three-and-a-half-year prison sentence for assaulting two female police officers at Manchester Airport, breaking one officer’s nose and injuring another. The court heard a victim statement from Sgt Lydia Ward, who condemned his actions as cowardly and criticised his lack of remorse. Amaaz was also convicted of a prior assault on a member of the public at a Starbucks that led to the police response resulting in the airport incident.

A 21-year-old man, Mohammed Fahir Amaaz, was sentenced to three and a half years in prison for violently assaulting two female police officers at Manchester Airport, breaking one officer’s nose and injuring another. During sentencing at Liverpool Crown Court, Sgt Lydia Ward delivered a victim statement condemning his actions and his lack of remorse, noting the impact of misleading partial footage circulated online. Amaaz was also convicted of a separate assault on a Starbucks customer shortly before the airport incident.

Thirteen men were identified as co-defendants in a case involving a Stockport man accused of drugging and sexually assaulting his wife over two decades. The husband admitted several counts of rape, assault by penetration and sexual assault, as well as sharing intimate images, but denies dozens of additional charges. Several co-defendants have entered guilty pleas to related offences, while others face trial in September at Manchester Minshull Street Crown Court. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for late August ahead of the 12‑week trial.

A prosecutor told a jury that former Olympic runner and surgeon Curtis Robb subjected his wife Sarah Robb to years of coercive and violent behaviour, including an incident during which she alleges he held a pillow over her face. She reported a pattern of assaults, threats and verbal abuse throughout their marriage, culminating in her decision to leave in 2023. Robb denies controlling or coercive behaviour and suffocation. The trial continues.

Prosecutors ended efforts to pursue a third trial against brothers Mohammed Fahir Amaaz and Muhammad Amaad after two juries failed to reach verdicts on allegations they assaulted Pc Zachary Marsden during a 2024 incident at Manchester Airport. Amaaz, already convicted of separate assaults in the same event, will be sentenced later, while Amaad was cleared. Video footage of the arrest had sparked protests and prompted scrutiny of Greater Manchester Police officers involved, with an Independent Office for Police Conduct investigation still underway. Statements from lawyers and police leadership highlighted contrasting views on officer conduct, the use of force and the impact of the prolonged legal process.

Jurors in the retrial of brothers Mohammed Fahir Amaaz and Muhammad Amaad were unable to reach verdicts on charges of assaulting police officer Zachary Marsden during a 2024 incident at Manchester Airport. The brothers maintained they acted in self-defence. After nearly 20 hours of deliberation, the jury was discharged, and prosecutors have until May 29 to decide whether to pursue a third trial.

A retrial of brothers Mohammed Fahir Amaaz and Muhammad Amaad for allegedly assaulting a police officer at Manchester Airport ended without a verdict after nearly 20 hours of jury deliberation. Both men denied using unlawful violence, claiming self-defence. The judge discharged the jury, and the case was adjourned until 29 May for prosecutors to determine whether to pursue a third trial.

A former high school teacher, Matthew Gilkes, received a 16-year prison sentence after being found with more than a million upskirt images taken using hidden cameras, including spy pens. He was caught photographing children in a leisure centre cubicle, leading to a search that uncovered over 80 recording devices containing indecent images of pupils. Gilkes also posed as a teenage boy online to groom girls into sending explicit images. He pleaded guilty to multiple offences and was issued an indefinite sexual harm prevention order.

A former Greater Manchester high school teacher, Matthew Gilkes, was sentenced at Preston Crown Court to 16 years in prison with a further five years on licence for taking more than a million upskirt images of pupils using concealed cameras. Police discovered over 80 recording devices and numerous indecent images at his home and workplace, and found he had used fake social media accounts to groom girls. Authorities described him as highly dangerous, and prosecutors highlighted the extensive harm caused to victims, who were praised for their bravery.

Inquests into the deaths of six babies murdered by Lucy Letby have been postponed until May 2027 due to delays in the publication of the Thirlwall Inquiry report. Cheshire Coroner’s Court continued the suspension of the inquests to allow the inquiry’s findings to be considered, with a further review set for November. Letby is serving whole-life orders for murdering seven infants and attempting to murder seven others, while the Criminal Cases Review Commission examines evidence submitted on her behalf challenging the convictions.

A Hampshire man was sentenced to 28 months after grooming a 14‑year‑old girl he met on Roblox, engaging in sexualised communication, sharing explicit images, and repeatedly breaching bail conditions by visiting her home and attempting to influence the case. Police described his escalating behaviour as predatory, noting he sent gifts, messages, and Moonpig cards to pressure the victim, and even reported her mother to social services. The victim and her mother reported significant distress and fear, prompting warnings from authorities about online safety for children. The court imposed an immediate custodial sentence, citing the defendant’s pattern of behaviour and high risk of harm to children.

Police arrested a man in his 30s on suspicion of attempted murder after a woman was stabbed at Carleton Crematorium in Blackpool. The victim, also in her 30s, sustained multiple stab wounds but was later discharged from hospital. Officers confirmed the victim and suspect knew each other. Detectives appealed for witnesses and relevant footage from the area and encouraged the public to report information via police channels or Crimestoppers.

A 60‑year‑old man from Lancashire received a suspended six‑week jail sentence after admitting to posting racist and derogatory messages on TikTok targeting England footballer Jess Carter during the Women’s Euro tournament. The court cited his intoxication at the time of posting, while Carter had previously stepped back from social media due to ongoing racist abuse.

A Lancashire man received a suspended six‑week sentence for posting racist messages on TikTok targeting England footballer Jess Carter during the Euro 2025 tournament. Police traced the posts to 60‑year‑old Nigel Dewale, who pleaded guilty to sending a grossly offensive message. Carter, a key member of England’s title‑winning squad, had stepped back from social media during the tournament due to abuse. England went on to defend their European title, defeating Spain on penalties in the final.

An inquest determined that four‑month‑old Madison Bruce Smith, grandson of football manager Steve Bruce, died after maternity nurse Eva Clements advised placing him to sleep on his stomach, contrary to NHS guidance. Coroner Alison Mutch concluded the infant died in a prone, unsafe sleeping position and warned of risks posed by unregulated maternity services, issuing a prevention of future deaths report urging government action.

An inquest found that four‑month‑old Madison Bruce Smith died after being placed in a prone, unsafe sleeping position on the advice of an unregulated maternity nurse hired by his parents. The coroner concluded that unregulated maternity services pose significant risks and issued a prevention of future deaths report calling for regulation. Conflicting testimony emerged between the service provider and the nurse over what training was given regarding safe sleep practices. Police determined the criminal threshold for neglect was not met due to the lack of regulation. Madison’s family described devastating loss and warned that similar deaths will occur without oversight of such services.

A man who subjected his partner to years of coercive and violent abuse was sentenced to 16 years in prison for an attack that severed her spinal cord and left her paralysed. The victim detailed the ongoing physical and emotional impact of the assault and warned of the man’s dangerous behaviour. The court also imposed an additional extended licence period due to the severity and long-term consequences of the abuse.

An inquest found that Jordan Everett died attempting to save his friend Joshua Myers after Joshua, stressed and intoxicated, climbed onto train tracks near Poynton station in Cheshire. Jordan jumped onto the tracks to push him to safety, but both were struck and killed by an oncoming train. The coroner praised Jordan’s selflessness, ruling his death an accident, while Joshua’s was recorded as misadventure influenced by alcohol and stress.

A Bolton Council financial protection officer, Richard Shaw, was sentenced to four years and eight months in prison for stealing nearly £900,000 from vulnerable benefit claimants over eight years. Investigators found he transferred funds into nine personal accounts and spent the money on luxury items including BMW cars, a holiday lodge and payments to multiple women. The council identified the fraud and worked with Greater Manchester Police and the CPS to bring the case, and has reimbursed affected individuals. A proceeds of crime hearing will seek to recover remaining funds.

Inquests into the deaths of five infants murdered by former neonatal nurse Lucy Letby were formally opened and adjourned by the senior coroner for Cheshire, with hearings expected to proceed in September pending the Thirlwall inquiry’s findings. The infants, who died at the Countess of Chester Hospital in 2015 and 2016, were among those Letby was convicted of killing. Additional related inquests were also suspended until May. The CPS recently decided against bringing further charges, while the Criminal Cases Review Commission continues to assess claims supported by an international medical panel asserting alternative explanations for the infants’ collapses.

Inquests have been opened for five babies murdered by former nurse Lucy Letby following her convictions, with hearings scheduled pending the outcome of the Thirlwall public inquiry into how she committed the crimes. The Crown Prosecution Service has ruled out further charges, and Letby was previously denied permission to appeal. The proceedings are overseen by Cheshire’s senior coroner, Jacqueline Devonish.

Two Albanian nationals, Denis Puka and Erisjan Laska, were jailed for a series of planned burglaries across Cheshire and Lancashire, including an attempted break‑in at footballer Scott Hogan’s home, where he was awakened by torchlight and chased off the intruders. The men used false plates, tools and an Airbnb base while targeting multiple properties over three nights, stealing high‑value watches in one case. Judge Steven Everett condemned their actions as sophisticated and deeply harmful, noting trauma caused to victims. Both defendants pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit burglary and received sentences exceeding four years.

An inquest found the accidental drowning of 11‑year‑old Francesca Blease occurred in a shallow children’s pool at a Fuerteventura hotel during her first family holiday abroad. Despite being afraid of water and unable to swim, no signs of distress were seen before she was discovered unresponsive. Medical experts suggested she may have lost her footing and inhaled water. Emergency responders attempted resuscitation, but she died the following day from severe brain hypoxia. The coroner concluded the death was unforeseeable and expressed condolences to her family.

Two men, Walid Saadaoui and Amar Hussein, were convicted of plotting an Isis‑inspired gun attack targeting Jewish gatherings in Manchester, with plans involving smuggled assault rifles and reconnaissance of Jewish sites. The plot was uncovered through an undercover operative who gathered evidence as the pair detailed their intentions. Saadaoui’s brother was also convicted for failing to disclose the plans. Greater Manchester Police and the CPS credited the undercover operation with preventing what authorities said could have been the deadliest terror attack in UK history.

Two men were convicted in the UK for plotting an Islamic State‑inspired attack targeting Jewish communities in Manchester, with plans to smuggle firearms into the country and carry out mass casualties. An undercover operative disrupted the plot, which included reconnaissance of smuggling routes and Jewish institutions. A third man was found guilty of withholding information, and all await sentencing.

A four-year-old girl remains in critical but stable condition after being struck by a firework in Burnley. Police were called to the Elm Street area on Bonfire Night, and a 15-year-old boy has been arrested on suspicion of statutory public nuisance related to the alleged supply of fireworks. Lancashire Constabulary continues to seek witnesses and information amid reports of prior anti-social firework use in the area.

A four-year-old girl remains in critical but stable condition after being struck by a firework in Burnley on Bonfire Night. Lancashire Police arrested a 15-year-old boy on suspicion of statutory public nuisance linked to the alleged supply of fireworks. Authorities noted prior issues with antisocial firework use in the area and appealed for witnesses or evidence as the investigation continues.

Jeremy Vine testified that Joey Barton’s posts on X, including accusations of paedophilia and repeated abusive messages, left him feeling physically unsafe and caused significant distress. The court heard that Barton targeted Vine after the broadcaster criticised his posts about commentators Lucy Ward and Eni Aluko. Vine described the impact on his reputation, family and daily life, noting he feared Barton’s large online following. Barton later paid substantial damages and apologised in civil settlements, though he denies the criminal charges relating to offensive posts made between January and March 2024.

Lucy Ward testified that Joey Barton’s posts on X comparing her and Eni Aluko to serial killers made her feel intimidated, anxious and physically scared, describing the online reaction as continuous harassment. Prosecutors argued Barton’s messages crossed the line into criminal conduct, while the defence claimed the comparisons were commentary on performance rather than threats. Ward rejected this interpretation, calling the posts offensive and harmful. Barton denies all charges related to communications sent between January and March of the previous year.

Prosecutors argue that Joey Barton sent a series of grossly offensive posts on X targeting Jeremy Vine, Eni Aluko, and Lucy Ward, allegedly intending to cause distress or anxiety on 12 occasions between January and March of the previous year. The court heard that while free expression allows offensive or controversial speech, the content of Barton’s posts crossed into criminal conduct under contemporary social standards. Barton denies the charges.

An inquest heard that Adrian Daulby died from a single gunshot fired by armed police during a terror attack on a Manchester synagogue in which Melvin Cravitz was fatally stabbed by Jihad Al‑Shamie. Shamie, who was on bail for rape, drove into security staff, attacked with a knife and attempted to enter the synagogue before being shot dead by police. The chief coroner confirmed the causes of death for both victims, and the inquest was adjourned for further review in February 2026.

Paul Doyle appeared in Liverpool Crown Court via videolink for an administrative hearing ahead of his trial on charges including dangerous driving, affray, and multiple counts of causing or attempting to cause grievous bodily harm. The charges relate to 29 victims from an incident in which he allegedly drove a Ford Galaxy Titanium into crowds during Liverpool’s Premier League victory parade, injuring 134 people. A further pre-trial hearing is scheduled for November 18, with the trial set to begin on November 25, and Doyle remains in custody.

Jack Watkin was sentenced to six years in prison after defrauding friends, family members and others of nearly £200,000 through a fraudulent scheme involving purported investments in Hermes handbags. He used the funds to finance a lavish lifestyle, including extensive spending at a luxury London hotel. Investigators later discovered indecent images of children on his phone, leading to additional convictions and sentencing. A judge condemned his deliberate deception and exploitation of others for personal gain.

A medical tribunal ruled that anaesthetist Suhail Anjum, who left a patient under anaesthetic to engage in sexual activity with a nurse, committed serious misconduct but posed a very low risk of repeating it. The incident, which occurred at Tameside Hospital in September 2023, led to his dismissal after an internal investigation. Despite acknowledging the seriousness of his actions and their potential risk to the patient, the tribunal concluded that public confidence in the profession could be maintained without restricting his ability to practise. A further hearing will determine whether a formal warning will be added to his registration.

Jurors were shown CCTV footage of former Countdown contestant John Cowen allegedly running toward and stabbing rival Thomas Carey during a fan tournament in Blackpool. Carey described hearing a growl before being attacked and sustaining a stab wound to the arm. Cowen, deemed unfit to stand trial due to serious mental illness, faces charges of wounding and possession of knives. Witness testimony indicated previous tensions involving suspicions about the use of an online practice app among tournament participants.

A driver who claimed his Jaguar I-Pace accelerated uncontrollably has denied charges of fraud, dangerous driving, and causing a public nuisance. Prosecutors allege he falsely reported faults to the finance company and media outlets to avoid further payments, prompting a major police response that caused motorway closures. He has been released on unconditional bail ahead of a Crown Court hearing in September.

A defense barrister argued in court that Pc Zachary Marsden used unnecessary and aggressive force during a confrontation at Manchester Airport, accusing him of disregarding protocol and assaulting two brothers as well as their mother. The defendants, Mohammed Fahir Amaaz and Muhammad Amaad, deny assault charges and claim they acted in self‑defence. Evidence included viral mobile phone footage and conflicting accounts of how the mother was injured. Jury deliberations are set to begin on Monday.

Louisa Tunstall was sentenced to 20 months in custody after inhaling nitrous oxide while driving in Wigan and veering onto a footpath, causing life‑changing leg injuries to a 51‑year‑old pedestrian. She was convicted of drug possession, driving under the influence, and causing serious injury by dangerous driving, and received a driving ban and requirement for an extended test. The victim described the severe impact on her daily life, while police emphasised the dangers of driving under the influence of nitrous oxide.

An 81‑year‑old former scout leader and housemaster, Richard Burrows, received a 46‑year sentence after being convicted of nearly 100 sexual offences committed against 24 boys across several UK regions between 1968 and 1995. Burrows fled to Thailand in 1997 using a stolen identity and remained undetected until Cheshire Police used image‑search software in 2023 to locate him. After running out of money and developing cancer, he returned to the UK, where he was arrested and later found guilty of multiple counts of indecent assault, buggery, attempted buggery, indecency with a child and possession of indecent images. The court detailed decades of abuse carried out while he held trusted roles in a children’s home and local Scout groups.

An expert panel of 14 medical specialists released case summaries for 17 babies involved in the Lucy Letby murder trial, offering alternative medical explanations for each infant’s deterioration. The panel reported no evidence of air embolisms or deliberate harm across the cases and attributed the babies’ deaths or collapses to conditions such as thrombosis, sepsis, respiratory issues, congenital problems, or medical mismanagement. The findings were submitted to the Criminal Cases Review Commission by Letby’s lawyer as part of efforts to challenge her convictions.

Authorities at Manchester Airport seized nearly £1 million worth of cocaine concealed in an electric wheelchair arriving from Barbados. Border Force officers discovered 12kg of the drug hidden in the seat and backrest, prompting an investigation by the National Crime Agency. Portuguese national Casimiro De Lemos-Francisco has been charged with drug smuggling and is set to appear at Manchester Crown Court on 6 May.

A warrant was issued for former Co-operative Bank chairman Paul Flowers after he failed to appear at Manchester Crown Court for sentencing on nearly £100,000 of fraud committed while acting as executor and power of attorney for Margaret Jarvis. The court was told he had disengaged from his legal team, prompting the judge to issue a warrant without bail. Flowers, previously embroiled in a drug scandal and a financial crisis at the bank, has a history of missed hearings and was previously banned from the financial services industry by the FCA for misconduct.

A coroner told the Lucy Letby public inquiry that hospital managers did not disclose consultants’ suspicions that a nurse could be responsible for a series of infant deaths. Despite concerns raised in 2016 at the Countess of Chester Hospital, senior staff informed the coroner only of an independent review, omitting the possibility of criminal involvement. The coroner stated he would have contacted police had he known. Inquiry testimony highlighted the hospital’s obligation to provide full and timely information to coroners and to alert police when criminal responsibility is suspected. The inquiry is ongoing, with findings expected in 2025.

Inquiry testimony describes how former hospital chief executive Tony Chambers reassured Lucy Letby and her family after she was removed from neonatal duties, despite consultants’ concerns that she was harming infants. Meetings included requests for apologies from consultants and threats from Letby’s father. Chambers acknowledged using clumsy language and said he aimed to avoid escalation. The inquiry continues to examine events surrounding Letby’s crimes, for which she is serving multiple whole‑life sentences.

A consultant neonatologist told the inquiry into the Lucy Letby case that she felt misled by hospital leadership after not being informed that staff were suspected of harming babies before she conducted a case note review. She said that knowledge of these concerns would have changed her approach and prompted safeguarding actions. The inquiry heard that her review lacked key contextual information and did not include interviews with clinicians or families. She later acknowledged that additional details would have led her to classify more infant deaths as unexplained. Letby is serving whole‑life orders for murdering seven babies and attempting to murder seven others, and the inquiry is scheduled to continue into 2025.

Families of babies harmed by nurse Lucy Letby told a public inquiry that hospital managers who ignored warnings were complicit and should face criminal action. They argued earlier investigations could have prevented further deaths and criticised NHS leadership for failing to learn from past medical murder cases. Parents also advocated for measures such as CCTV to protect infants and staff. Letby, removed from clinical duties in 2016 and arrested in 2018, is serving whole‑life sentences for murdering seven babies and attempting to murder seven others. The inquiry continues, with findings expected in 2025.

Prosecutors alleged that Lucy Letby deliberately dislodged the breathing tube of a premature baby known as Child K during a night shift in 2016 and was seen doing so by a consultant. They argued she attempted to create the impression the infant was causing the tube to move on her own, despite being sedated. Letby denied harming the baby or interfering with medical equipment. The case is a retrial after a previous jury failed to reach a verdict on this charge. Child K later died in another hospital, though the prosecution does not attribute the death to Letby. The judge is expected to begin summing up before closing speeches next week.

A prosecution at Manchester Crown Court alleges that nursery deputy manager Kate Roughley caused the death of nine‑month‑old Genevieve Meehan by tightly swaddling her, placing her face‑down on a bean bag, securing her with a harness and failing to respond to signs of distress for more than an hour and a half. CCTV footage cited in court shows repeated crying and movement by the child that prosecutors say were ignored. The prosecution also presented earlier footage suggesting hostility from Roughley toward the baby. The defence argues the death was a tragic accident and that Roughley followed her usual childcare practices with no intent to cause harm. The trial continues.

A medical tribunal found that cosmetic doctor Tijion Esho engaged in sexual activity with a patient at his Newcastle clinic and provided free botox in exchange for sex, despite his denial of physical contact. The panel cited multiple incidents of sexualised behaviour, including messages, inappropriate remarks, and physical contact over several years. Esho, known for television appearances and his cosmetic clinics in several cities, was ruled to have acted with sexual motivation. A further hearing will determine whether his fitness to practise is impaired.

A former police constable testified that he punched an inspector in self‑defence after discovering him having sex with his wife in a car park. Prosecutors claim he became obsessed with the pair’s alleged affair and assaulted the inspector, while he argues he sought proof of their relationship and was attacked first. Evidence described tracking his wife’s car, monitoring conversations, reviewing messages, and confrontations that led to the incident now before Liverpool Crown Court.

Prosecutors allege that Ian Connell murdered Donald Patience in his Greater Manchester home and later returned to steal the victim’s labradoodle. Police discovered Patience’s decomposing body after responding to a report of a burglary. Evidence presented includes claims that Connell lied about his relationship with the victim, was found with the victim’s identification, and offered false explanations during interviews. A pathologist reported that Patience died from sustained neck pressure. Connell denies murder and manslaughter as the two-week trial continues.

Esther Ghey argues the UK’s Online Safety Act does not sufficiently protect children from harmful online content, urging greater responsibility from smartphone and social media companies. She highlights the scale of harmful material accessible to young people and calls for stronger enforcement measures. Ghey also promotes introducing mindfulness in schools to build resilience and reflects on the difficulties parents face monitoring children’s online activity. The comments follow the sentencing of Scarlett Jenkinson and Eddie Ratcliffe for the murder of her daughter, Brianna Ghey.

An 83-year-old woman from Oldham lost over £20,000 to a romance scammer she met through online Scrabble. The fraudster posed as a wealthy American widower and fabricated emergencies, including a daughter’s surgery and an arrest in Turkey, to solicit money. After 18 months, the victim informed her brother, who reported the case to Action Fraud with guidance from Greater Manchester Police. Investigators have not identified the scammer, believed by the family to be linked to a group operating from Nigeria. Police urged greater online vigilance, noting the prevalence of similar scams.

An 83-year-old woman from Oldham lost more than £20,000 over 18 months to a romance scammer she met through an online Scrabble game. The fraudster posed as an American millionaire and fabricated crises, including a daughter’s medical emergency and an arrest in Turkey, supported by a fake United Nations letter. After noticing behavioural changes, the victim’s brother discovered the fraud and reported it to Action Fraud with guidance from Greater Manchester Police. Authorities warn that similar scams are widespread and urge heightened vigilance when interacting with strangers online.

A British Army veteran was sentenced to two years and eight months in prison for encouraging terrorism, disseminating extremist material and stirring up racial hatred. He glorified the murder of MP Jo Cox, praised the Christchurch mosque attacker and shared racist, misogynistic and antisemitic content on Gab. Police discovered the material on a tablet seized during his arrest. The judge cited the risk that others could act on his posts, while the defence said he now expressed remorse and had mental‑health challenges linked to military service.

A 30-year-old man died in hospital after an altercation at a traffic light on Kingsway in Didsbury, Manchester. Police arrested an 18-year-old on suspicion of murder and are seeking information, including CCTV or dashcam footage, as they investigate what they believe to be an isolated incident. Detective Inspector Alex Wilkinson urged the public to assist while reassuring the community that inquiries are underway.

Rishi Sunak pledged continued investment in Accrington, highlighting previous funding commitments and framing levelling up as ensuring equal opportunity across the UK. He said money saved from cancelling the northern leg of HS2 would support local projects nationwide. Sunak also backed an independent football regulator with powers to enforce financial redistribution if the Premier League and EFL fail to reach an agreement. Local MP Sara Britcliffe and Accrington Stanley owner Andy Holt participated in the event, where investment and football governance were key topics.

A fraud trial for former Co-op Bank chairman Paul Flowers has been scheduled for September 1, 2025, at Manchester Crown Court. Flowers, accused of abusing his position as power of attorney for Margaret Mary Jarvis and later as her executor to commit a £68,000 fraud between 2016 and 2017, has not yet entered a plea. He is due to be arraigned at a further hearing on January 31 and remains on conditional bail.

Lawrence Jones, co‑founder of UKFast, received a 15‑year sentence at Manchester Crown Court for two rapes and a sexual assault committed between the early 1990s and 2013. Judge Sarah Johnston said his actions reflected entitlement, misogyny and premeditation, and that he created a workplace culture marked by inappropriate behaviour toward women. Testimony from three victims described drugging, manipulation and sexual violence. Although character references noted his charitable contributions and mentoring, the court found no remorse for his crimes. Jones must serve two‑thirds of his sentence before being eligible for release.

An inquest is being opened into the deaths of four teenagers whose bodies were found in a crashed, overturned and partially submerged car in North Wales after a major search. Police are seeking dashcam footage from the A4085 during the period the group went missing. Tributes were shared by family and friends, and the inquests will be formally opened in Caernarfon with full hearing dates to follow.

Tech executive Lawrence Jones was convicted at two trials of sexually assaulting an employee in 2010 and drugging and raping two women in the early 1990s. Reporting restrictions were lifted after the second trial, where both complainants described being incapacitated before the attacks. Jones denied all allegations, claiming consensual encounters or intoxication, but juries found him guilty. He will be sentenced for all offences on December 1. Prosecutors highlighted the harm caused by his denials and praised the victims for coming forward.

Allegations of sexual harassment, assault and workplace bullying against UKFast co-founder Lawrence Jones became public in 2019 following an investigation by the Financial Times. Multiple former employees reported misconduct ranging from inappropriate touching to creating a hostile workplace environment. Police inquiries led to charges involving two women, with Jones later cleared of rape but convicted of one count of sexual assault. Jones and his wife subsequently left UKFast, which had grown into a major web services provider with thousands of clients. Despite Jones’s public denials, the case revealed significant concerns about workplace culture and conduct within the company.

A man named Nazim Asmal admitted raping three vulnerable women after posing as a taxi driver in Lancashire and driving them to remote locations. Investigators identified him using CCTV footage of his black Toyota Yaris. He pleaded guilty to four counts of rape and is awaiting sentencing at Preston Crown Court, while Lancashire Police state that the victims are being supported by specialist officers and encourage others affected to come forward.

Two teenagers were charged with racially aggravated criminal damage after spraying “Free Palestine” graffiti on the Rochdale cenotaph. Greater Manchester Police placed guards at the site, treated it as a crime scene and released the minors on bail. Detectives stated the charges aim to reassure the community amid local distress. The memorial, designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens, remains under investigation as police appeal for further information.

A man pleaded not guilty at Manchester Crown Court to the murder and manslaughter of Donald Patience, whose body was discovered after reports that his labradoodle had been taken from his home in Radcliffe. He was remanded ahead of a January pre-trial review, with a provisional trial set for February. Patience’s family described him as a much‑loved relative, and the dog was recovered by authorities.

A judge issued an arrest warrant for former Co-op Bank chairman Paul Flowers after he failed to appear at Manchester Crown Court to enter a plea on a £68,000 fraud charge involving the alleged misuse of an Enduring Power of Attorney. His solicitor reported losing contact with him, leading the judge to issue a bench warrant without bail. Flowers, who previously cited health issues preventing attendance, had earlier been granted unconditional bail after the case was moved from magistrates’ court due to its seriousness.

A statutory inquiry into the murders committed by nurse Lucy Letby will examine the experiences of affected families, the actions of hospital staff and management, and the effectiveness of governance and regulatory systems. Led by Lady Justice Thirlwall, the inquiry aims to determine how Letby was able to kill and harm infants at the Countess of Chester Hospital and whether concerns should have been escalated sooner. Health Secretary Steve Barclay said families deserve answers, while lawyers representing parents called for a comprehensive investigation to prevent future failures.

A forensic pathologist told Preston Crown Court that CPR did not cause the 30 rib fractures found on seven‑week‑old Edith Langley, stating their number and position indicated excessive squeezing force applied before death. The baby also had older rib injuries and internal bruising consistent with trauma inflicted while her heart was still beating. Paramedics attempted resuscitation after a 999 call from mother Laura Langley, who denies murder and child cruelty.

Expert testimony at Preston Crown Court stated that the 33 rib fractures found on seven‑week‑old Edith Langley resulted from substantial compressive force inconsistent with CPR or rough handling. Most fractures were inflicted shortly before death, with some older injuries also present. Prosecutors argued this contradicted Laura Langley’s claim that the death was sudden and unexplained, while the defence cited limited research suggesting CPR could cause posterior fractures. The trial continues.

A bus crashed into a shop in Manchester’s Piccadilly Gardens, leaving one woman in critical condition and injuring 11 others. The 64-year-old bus driver was arrested on suspicion of causing serious injury by dangerous driving as emergency services cordoned off the area and began investigating. The collision damaged a newly opened T4 bubble tea shop, whose operator confirmed staff were safe but shaken. Transport for Greater Manchester temporarily halted stops at the location while assisting passengers.

A bus crashed into a shop in Manchester’s Piccadilly Gardens, leaving one person seriously injured and nine others hospitalised. Emergency services, including police, ambulance and fire crews, responded with multiple units and cordoned off the area. Investigators are examining the circumstances of the collision, while transport services around the site remain disrupted. The affected T4 bubble tea shop will stay closed as recovery efforts continue.

Emergency services responded to a bus collision with a shop in Manchester’s Piccadilly Gardens, resulting in multiple casualties and significant road closures. Police, ambulance, and fire crews attended, cordoning off the area while investigators worked to determine the cause. Transport for Greater Manchester advised passengers of service disruptions as staff assisted with alternative routes.

Prosecutors at Preston Crown Court allege that Laura Langley fatally assaulted her seven‑week‑old daughter Edith, who was found to have 33 rib fractures, most inflicted shortly before her death. Emergency services were called after Langley reported the baby was not breathing, and post‑mortem findings indicated severe compressive force inconsistent with any accidental explanation. Text messages showed Langley seeking company and alcohol on the night of the incident, with later blood analysis indicating high intoxication levels. Langley denies murder and child cruelty, claiming she may have accidentally rolled onto the baby while asleep. The trial continues.

An American boxing trainer, Brian McIntyre, received a suspended 20‑month sentence after unintentionally bringing a licensed firearm and ammunition into the UK, which were found at Manchester Airport as he prepared to return to the US. The judge accepted that he had forgotten the weapon was in his luggage following extensive travel and cited his substantial community work in Omaha, supported by testimony from boxer Terence Crawford and others, as exceptional circumstances allowing leniency. McIntyre, who had been in custody since his arrest, was ordered to pay prosecution costs.

A nurse at Blackpool Victoria Hospital, Catherine Hudson, was convicted of ill‑treating stroke patients by administering sedatives to keep them quiet, and found guilty of conspiring with colleague Charlotte Wilmot to drug another patient. WhatsApp messages revealed joking references to sedating and harming patients, contradicting their claims of harmless banter. Hudson also admitted stealing medications and perverting the course of justice, while Wilmot previously pleaded guilty to conspiring to steal drugs. Police described their actions as calculated and dangerous, noting the risks posed to vulnerable patients. The hospital trust apologised and stated it has since improved staffing, medicine management and reporting culture. Hudson and Wilmot will be sentenced in December.

A court heard that Blackpool Victoria Hospital’s stroke unit had such lax drug controls that staff frequently stole and misused medication. Nurse Catherine Hudson was convicted of drugging patients to keep them quiet and admitted participating in widespread theft of sedatives, including Zopiclone. An internal review showed large discrepancies between dispensed, prescribed, and administered doses, prompting an investigation after a whistleblower raised concerns. Hudson described the ward as corrupt, with many staff allegedly taking drugs for recreational use or before shifts.

Police located and arrested Stephen Pennington, a convicted child sex offender who had breached licence conditions, leading to his recall to prison. Lancashire Constabulary thanked the public for providing information that assisted in his capture.

A school bus and a car crashed on the M53 near Hooton, leaving one person seriously injured and nearly 50 others assessed at the scene. Emergency services, including North West Ambulance Service, Alder Hey Children’s Hospital, police and fire crews, responded with major incident declarations and deployed extensive resources. Both Calday Grange and West Kirby grammar schools confirmed involvement of one of their buses. The motorway was closed in both directions, and authorities appealed for witnesses and dashcam footage.

Emergency services responded to an overturned school bus on the northbound M53 near junction 5 in Cheshire, prompting closure of the motorway in both directions and the implementation of diversions. Police, fire, ambulance crews and air ambulance units attended, with authorities managing passenger safety and traffic control. Local officials urged the public to avoid the area, remain patient and refrain from sharing unverified information. Witnesses were asked to submit information or footage to police or Crimestoppers.