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Two cars were deliberately set on fire on Highgate Road in Sparkbrook, Birmingham, shortly after 8.30pm on August 19. Three men were reportedly seen fleeing the area before driving away in a white Volkswagen Golf. No one was injured or trapped. West Midlands Police are reviewing CCTV and speaking to witnesses, while West Midlands Fire Service confirmed that firefighters attended and made one vehicle safe.

Police and ambulance attended an incident believed to involve a collision near Aldi on Old Meeting Street in West Bromwich. National Express West Midlands temporarily diverted routes 44, 47 and 529 via New Swan Lane and Black Country New Road before they returned to normal routes. Emergency services had not yet provided comment.

Birmingham brothers Brendon and Jaydon Manders, founders of seasoning and sauce brand Lumberjaxe, attended Deva Fest at Cheshire's Cholmondeley Castle and hosted a live-fire cooking stage. The pair, who secured a £90,000 investment from Emma Grede on BBC's Dragon's Den, were photographed with headline performer Ronan Keating. Their business has also received repeat orders from Asda after launching four single-serve seasoning sachets in 325 UK stores.

A police cordon remains in place on South Road in Smethwick after the body of a man in his 40s was found at an address on August 6. West Midlands Police arrested a 60-year-old man on suspicion of murder, and he remains in custody. Officers are conducting CCTV and house-to-house enquiries and are appealing for information, including mobile phone, dashcam and other footage.

West Midlands Police are seeking 40-year-old Nicholas Kane, who has links to Wolverhampton and Dudley and no fixed address, for failing to attend court. He is identifiable by distinctive facial tattoos, including the word “random” above his eyebrow and a crown below his eye. Anyone with information is asked to call 999 and quote crime number 20/350746/26.

Firefighters used 15 fire engines and specialist equipment to tackle a large grass fire in the Sherbrook Valley area of Cannock Chase. The blaze, reported on August 5 near Chase Road, Coppice Hill and Brocton, prompted police cordons and road closures from Brocton to Camp Road. Authorities urged the public to avoid the area, keep windows and doors closed, and remain away until the incident was resolved and the site declared safe.

A collision on Bilston Road in Wolverhampton temporarily halted tram services between Wolverhampton and Priestfield at around 10:20 p.m. on August 5. National Express West Midlands buses accepted tram tickets during the disruption, and trams resumed normal operation with some delays shortly after 11 p.m. The incident occurred less than a week after a fatal crash on the same road, for which police had appealed for information.

A grassland fire broke out at the Skelly, a popular walking area in Hednesford, on the evening of August 5. Fire crews and other emergency workers attended the scene, following reports that 15 crews had also been dispatched to a wildfire in Cannock Chase. Further details were awaited from emergency services.

National Express West Midlands diverted its 2 and 2A bus services via Ashenhurst Road in both directions after an incident on Middlepark Road in Russels Hall, Dudley, shortly after 7pm on 5 August. Emergency services had been contacted for comment, with further details expected.

National Express West Midlands diverted its 41 and 529 bus services after a collision at the Wolverhampton Road and Pleck Road junction in Walsall shortly after 7:20 p.m. on August 5. The 41 was routed via Green Lane and Old Birchhills, while the 529 used Green Lane, Reedswood Way and Bloxwich Lane.

The A38 in Staffordshire is being temporarily closed from 5 p.m. after a potential unexploded World War II bomb was excavated at Barton Pit Quarry near Wychnor. Authorities plan to carry out a controlled explosion, coordinating with police, National Highways, Network Rail and other agencies. Drivers are advised to use an alternative route because the duration of the closure is unclear.

West Midlands Fire Service crews responded to a fire at Babbs Mill Park, Meriden Park, in Chelmsley Wood, Solihull, on the evening of August 1. Two fire engines from Sheldon and Bickenhill stations tackled a grass fire measuring approximately 100 by 100 metres using main jets and extinguished the flames.

A West Midlands Railway line in Stourbridge reopened shortly after a lorry collided with a bridge and the track was temporarily closed for examination. Ticket acceptance was arranged on National Express West Midlands buses, while delays were expected as train services recovered.

A major grassland fire broke out at Barr Beacon in Great Barr, with video showing smoke plumes over the area. West Midlands Fire Service sent eight crews and urged the public to avoid the site, while Beacon Road was closed in both directions. Councillor Adrian Andrew expressed concern about possible damage to the beacon, memorial and surrounding land, with an assessment planned for the following day.

Eight West Midlands Fire Service crews responded to a large grassland fire at Barr Beacon in Great Barr on August 2, 2026. Authorities urged the public to avoid the area, while Beacon Road was closed in both directions between the B4151 Beacon Hill and Bridle Lane.

West Midlands Police stopped and searched a young person on The Radleys in Sheldon, Birmingham, after saying they had grounds to search. The person allegedly ran when detained, knocked down an officer and was caught after a foot chase. Officers recovered a large hunting-style knife.

Fair Pay UK has urged Prime Minister Andy Burnham to make wage equality central to his plans for encouraging more young people into work. The group argues that young workers will remain reluctant to enter employment while unequal pay persists and is backing multi-billion-pound claims involving Asda, Sainsbury's and Morrisons. Its lead lawyer, Nate Barber, welcomed the focus on youth financial stability but said the reforms would lack credibility unless workers were fairly rewarded.

Tributes, photographs, flowers and candles have been left on Bilston Road in Wolverhampton for a motorcyclist in his 20s who was named locally as Luke. He died after his Yamaha motorcycle struck a kerb near the Red Lion pub on July 31. West Midlands Police are seeking witnesses and dashcam, mobile phone or CCTV footage as they investigate the fatal collision.

West Midlands Police officers in Walsall’s St Matthew’s area seized Class A and Class B drugs during stop and searches over several days. The force said drug support courses were offered to everyone found possessing the substances.

Six fire crews attended a blaze that spread across several gardens and neighbouring properties on Chesterfield Close in Birmingham’s Northfield area. Firefighters used hose reels and main jets to extinguish the fire, which damaged fences and sheds. Police arrested one person at the scene on suspicion of arson, and no casualties were reported.

West Midlands Metro suspended services between West Bromwich Central and Birmingham stops until approximately 1pm on August 2 while essential overhead line upgrades were carried out. Trams continued to operate between Wolverhampton and West Bromwich Central.

A multi-vehicle collision on the M6 southbound near Junction 9 for Wednesbury caused a lane closure and delays of up to 40 minutes on the approach. Traffic officers and a recovery vehicle attended, and all lanes had reopened by 7pm on August 1, though National Highways reported residual delays of around 20 minutes.

Shane Hartle was sentenced to four years and three months in prison at Birmingham Crown Court after pleading guilty to robbing and attacking a woman on Old Walsall Road in Great Barr. He pinned her against a vehicle, demanded her belongings and struck her with a pint glass, causing facial injuries. West Midlands Police used witness information and Hartle’s electronic tag to identify and arrest him.

Police are investigating reports that shots were fired during disorder on Poplar Green in Dudley shortly before 1:50pm on August 1. Officers established a cordon and are carrying out enquiries; no injuries or arrests have been reported. West Midlands Police is appealing for information, CCTV, mobile-phone or dashcam footage, citing log 2408.

West Midlands Police and City of Wolverhampton Council seized a vehicle from an industrial estate in Wednesfield after it was linked to fly-tipping offences in Wolverhampton. The police neighbourhood team supported the council during the operation, while the council had been approached for further comment.

Baddesley Clinton, a 16th-century National Trust manor house near Solihull, was burgled at about 1:50am on July 30. The house was temporarily closed while Warwickshire Police investigated, although the gardens, parkland, café and shop remained open. The National Trust hoped to reopen the house the following day and asked anyone with information to contact police.

A factory fire broke out on Brick Kiln Street in Brierley Hill late on July 31, prompting the deployment of six West Midlands Fire Service crews. Firefighters used hose reels and a hydraulic platform to tackle the blaze, while the public was advised to avoid the area. Aerial footage and photographs showed the damage caused.

Six fire crews attended a factory fire on Brick Kiln Street in Brierley Hill after the first call was received at 9:47pm on July 31. Crews from Wolverhampton, Wednesbury, West Bromwich, Woodgate Valley, Stourbridge and Tipton used hose reels and a hydraulic platform to tackle the blaze, while the public was urged to avoid the area.

West Midlands Metro services between Wolverhampton and Priestfield were suspended after a road traffic accident on Bilston Road shortly after 10 p.m. on July 31. Trams resumed normal service on the morning of August 1, while emergency services were contacted for further comment.

A collision at the junction of Aldridge Road and Dyas Road in Great Barr partially blocked southbound traffic on August 1, 2026. National Express West Midlands’ route 28 was diverted, while traffic was reported to be coping well. West Midlands Police attended the scene, and no injuries were reported.

West Midlands Police recovered two shotguns and two handguns, along with ammunition, from a modified Vauxhall Corsa parked on Wappenbury Road in Coventry. DNA and fingerprint evidence linked Kai Williams, Junior Dube and Tyreece Barnett-Leslie to the weapons, while messages and photographs indicated that Dube supplied firearms. All three men were sentenced at Warwick Crown Court, receiving prison terms ranging from four years to seven years and 11 months for firearms, drug and related offences.

Kirsty-Louise Card reviews La Bellezza in Birmingham after trying its weekday 60-minute three-course lunch. She praises the welcoming atmosphere, attentive service and dishes including burrata with pesto, lamb ragù pasta and chocolate mousse, describing the food as authentically Italian and reminiscent of Perugia. The £23 three-course offer runs Monday to Friday from noon to 4:45 p.m., and she strongly recommends returning.

Tram services are suspended between The Royal stop on Bilston Road and Wolverhampton Station because traffic lights on the route are not working. Services continue between The Royal and Edgbaston Village/Millennium Point.

Residents near Wolverhampton Road in Oldbury were briefly evacuated after an unexploded Second World War mortar round was found at a property. Explosive Ordnance Disposal personnel removed the device and transported it to Warley Woods, where a controlled explosion was carried out. West Midlands Police confirmed that the detonation had been completed and warned residents to expect a loud bang.

A man was found with stab wounds on Dimbles Lane in Lichfield after Staffordshire Police responded to reports of a disturbance in the early hours of July 24. He was taken to hospital in serious condition, and a large police cordon was established around the area.

Photographs show a large police cordon on Dimbles Lane in Lichfield after a man was found with stab wounds following a reported disturbance on July 24, 2026. The victim remains in hospital in serious condition, while forensic teams continue working at the scene and Staffordshire Police appeal for information.

An offal spillage on the northbound M6 between junctions 14 and 15 near Stafford caused delays of up to 80 minutes and the closure of three lanes. National Highways said specialist contractors, including a hydro-blaster, cleared and cleaned the affected road surface, allowing the carriageway to reopen shortly after midnight.

Warwickshire Police worked with City of Wolverhampton Council and Nuneaton and Bedworth Borough Council to inspect taxis and other vehicles in Nuneaton. Of nine taxis stopped, one was suspended for defective brake lights, two received rectification notices, and six were found compliant. Officers also stopped 33 other vehicles, issuing tickets, prohibition orders and making arrests and vehicle seizures for offences including dangerous defects, driving while disqualified, lack of tax, insurance or MOT.

All lanes of the M6 northbound between Junctions 14 and 15 near Stafford reopened after an offal spillage caused a three-lane closure and delays of up to 80 minutes the previous evening. National Highways said there were no remaining delays.

Changes to West Midlands bus services will take effect on July 26, affecting routes in Dudley, Kidderminster and Halesowen. National Express West Midlands will operate the 25 and 142/142A services. The 25 route will be revised between Stourbridge and Merry Hill, with new connections to Stourbridge Junction and some lightly used early and late journeys withdrawn. The 142/142A routes will also change between Stourbridge and Merry Hill, providing new connections from several local areas to Stourbridge Junction, while the Halesowen–Stourbridge section remains unchanged.

Police are seeking information on the whereabouts of Brandon Wesley, Jason Morrall and Danial Azim, who are wanted for allegedly supplying significant quantities of crack cocaine and heroin in Birmingham. Authorities urge the public to provide information via the police website, by calling 999, or anonymously through Crimestoppers.

A reptile rescue centre in Sedgley is seeking an experienced home for Severous, a seven‑year‑old reticulated python who has spent most of his life in its care. The centre highlights the species’ need for specialist space due to their potential size and uses World Snake Day to stress that snakes are often misunderstood. Severous is described as frequently overlooked despite his striking appearance, and the rescue encourages potential adopters to learn more through its website.

Lilian Cox, one of the viral Tipton Twins, celebrated her 102nd birthday with a series of parties, including a special gathering attended by her favourite staff from Asda’s Great Bridge store. Known for her social media popularity alongside her late twin sister Doris, she continues to be cherished by her community, with Asda representatives praising her lively spirit. Events throughout the week included themed celebrations, performances and visits from friends, family and local supporters.

Data shows Wolverhampton issued more than 53,000 taxi licences in 2025, with the vast majority used outside the city. Licensing increased sharply from 2019 to 2025, and 2026 figures have already exceeded previous annual totals. Birmingham, Manchester and Leicester are the top areas where Wolverhampton‑licensed taxis operate. Concerns raised by councils including Manchester and Blackpool have prompted the Government to propose reforms that would reduce the number of licensing bodies from 263 to 70 local transport authorities.

A UK law firm is urging current and former supermarket workers in the West Midlands to check if they qualify for equal pay claims against Asda, Sainsbury’s and Morrisons. Harcus Parker alleges that female-dominated shopfloor roles were historically underpaid compared with male-dominated warehouse roles, potentially entitling workers to back pay for up to six years. The firm has launched the Fair Pay UK website to help employees assess eligibility as legal action continues. The developments come as the Government begins a consultation on improving the equal pay system amid longstanding concerns over pay discrimination in the retail sector.

Seven inmates at a Staffordshire young offenders institution received a combined 36 years in additional sentences for two violent yard assaults and subsequent disorder, including climbing onto a roof and causing damage. CCTV showed coordinated attacks involving improvised weapons, leading to hospital treatment for two victims. Officers eventually contained the incident, and the men were sentenced at Stoke-on-Trent Crown Court for offences including wounding with intent, violent disorder and criminal damage. Police emphasised the severity of the violence and reiterated efforts to curb offending within prisons.

Emergency works on Vicarage Road in Penn have extended a planned closure, now expected to continue into Tuesday, July 21, with daily shutdowns from 9.30am to 2.30pm and traffic diverted via Penn Road and Church Hill.

A blockage on the westbound A5 before the A449 Stafford Road junction at Gailey Island is causing slow traffic, according to an AA alert issued early evening on July 15. Emergency services have been contacted for further information.

An Asda delivery driver, Luke, helped a 77-year-old woman named Carol after finding her injured on the floor of her home, calling 999, alerting her family and staying with her until relatives arrived. Carol’s family publicly expressed gratitude for his quick thinking, and social media users praised his actions.

A young girl suffered life-altering injuries after a collision involving a motorbike on a footpath in Tamworth. She remains in serious but stable condition in hospital. Corey Griffiths, 20, has been charged with six offences, including causing serious injury by dangerous driving, failing to stop, failing to report an accident, driving without insurance, driving without a licence and handling stolen goods, and is set to appear at North Staffordshire Justice Centre. A 16-year-old arrested in connection with the incident has been released on conditional bail.

England fans gathered at Luna Springs in Birmingham to watch the 2026 World Cup semi-final between England and Argentina, with photos capturing the positive atmosphere as supporters awaited the outcome of the match.

Fans gathered at the Green Duck Brewery Taproom in Stourbridge to watch England face Argentina in the 2026 World Cup semi-final, with millions expected to tune in nationwide. The match follows England’s advancement thanks to two goals from Jude Bellingham, and the winner will meet Spain in the final on July 19. Reporters are on site capturing the atmosphere as supporters anticipate the high-stakes match.

A sinkhole appeared on Sutton Road in Kidderminster, prompting residents to block the area with a wheelie bin to warn motorists. Council workers subsequently closed the road and assessed the site, with images showing a small hole in the tarmac. Authorities have been contacted for further information.

Four England players—Jude Bellingham, Morgan Rogers, Ezri Konsa and Ollie Watkins—are highlighted for their strong connections to the West Midlands ahead of the team’s 2026 World Cup semi-final against Argentina. The article outlines their regional roots, development through local academies and contributions to club and country, emphasising the area’s role as a significant producer of football talent.

Police appealed for help identifying two boys after phones were stolen from a Birmingham High Street shop. CCTV images were released following an investigation, and the public were asked to provide information via police contacts or Crimestoppers.

Police in Walsall arrested a 15-year-old after recovering a zombie knife and later found Class A drugs linked to the investigation. The youth was taken into custody on suspicion of possessing an offensive weapon and released on bail. Officers also arrested a 28-year-old man after an officer was assaulted, with the man suspected of drug supply and assault. Police emphasised ongoing efforts to remove weapons from the streets.

Temporary journey time monitoring cameras on Willenhall Road in Wolverhampton were installed to collect traffic flow data, prompting a resident’s FOI request after noticing they appeared to be pointed at drivers. The City of Wolverhampton Council clarified that the devices are not CCTV, do not issue fines and only capture number plates long enough to calculate travel times before deleting the data.

A Dudley chip shop is offering free cones of chips to England fans wearing football shirts before the World Cup semi-final against Argentina. The Big Chippy UK on Jews Lane announced the promotion on social media, encouraging supporters heading to pubs to collect their free chips before the 8 p.m. kickoff in Georgia. The winner of the match will advance to face Spain in Sunday’s final.

Inspectors from the Care Quality Commission rated Eve Hill Medical Practice in Dudley as outstanding for the second time following a May inspection. The practice was commended for inclusive and responsive care, strong safety measures, effective appointments, and a positive staff culture. CQC deputy director Andy Brand highlighted its embedded learning culture, person‑centred approach, and proactive efforts to reduce health inequalities. Safety was upgraded to outstanding, while effectiveness, caring, and leadership were also rated outstanding, with responsiveness remaining good.

Mark Bellingham, a former non-league striker with more than 700 career goals and a retired West Midlands Police sergeant, played a key role in guiding the careers of his sons Jude and Jobe Bellingham. After supporting Jude’s moves from Birmingham City to Borussia Dortmund and later Real Madrid, and Jobe’s progression to Sunderland and then Dortmund, he and his wife Denise divided their time to support each son’s development. The article highlights the family’s close dynamic and its influence on Jude’s standout World Cup performance, where he has scored six goals heading into England’s semi-final against Argentina.

An investigation by the Wolverhampton Priority Crime Team led to the discovery of a firearms‑conversion operation run by Shivam Dhillon and associates Gustav Maco, Cailan Jassal and Hamzah Asif. The group converted blank‑firing pistols into viable weapons and supplied them to organised crime groups across the Midlands. All four men were arrested, charged and convicted on various firearms and drug‑related offences, with sentencing scheduled for October 9 at Wolverhampton Crown Court.

A single-car collision on the A38 at St Chads in Birmingham caused major delays as emergency services closed the road and diverted traffic. West Midlands Roads reported significant congestion affecting surrounding routes, while National Express West Midlands rerouted several bus services. West Midlands Police confirmed the crash occurred around 2:35am and that parts of Great Charles Street Queensway had reopened as investigations continued, though drivers were advised to seek alternative routes.

West Midlands Railway is offering free travel between Stourbridge Junction and Stourbridge Town for anyone named Jude to celebrate local footballer Jude Bellingham’s standout World Cup performance, including scoring twice in England’s quarter-final win over Norway. The promotion runs from July 13 to July 19, with the company expressing support for England as the tournament enters its final stages.

A signalling fault halted tram services from Wolverhampton Station and Pipers Row, while trams continued operating between Wolverhampton St George’s and Edgbaston Village. West Midlands Metro issued an apology and advised passengers of the limited service.

High water demand during a heatwave has led South Staffs Water to warn customers of reduced pressure and possible temporary supply loss across areas including Lichfield, Walsall and parts of Sandwell. The company is working to maintain supplies and urges residents to limit non‑essential water use. Severn Trent has issued a similar alert after recording its highest single‑day demand, as temperatures across England remain above 30C.

A multi-vehicle collision near the M6 junction caused significant delays on the M5, with congestion reaching up to 45 minutes southbound and 20 minutes northbound. All lanes later reopened, though motorists were still advised to expect delays. Emergency services were contacted for further information.

Police issued an appeal to locate a 75-year-old woman named Barbara, last seen leaving a Smethwick hospital on July 11. She is from Edgbaston, described as 5ft 7ins tall and using a walking stick. Authorities asked anyone with information to contact West Midlands Police and provide the PID reference 461417.

Data from a Freedom of Information request shows 63 private hire vehicles and 118 drivers licensed by City of Wolverhampton Council have addresses in Cardiff, Swansea and Newport, with Cardiff representing over half of both totals. The figures follow concerns raised by authorities including Manchester and Blackpool about the council’s high number of out-of-town licences, which have tripled in five years. Up to 96% of licences issued between April 2023 and March 2024 went to people living outside Wolverhampton. The government is proposing reforms to reduce the number of licensing bodies nationwide and shift responsibility to 70 local transport authorities.

England supporters gather at Stourbridge FC to watch the national team face Norway in the 2026 World Cup quarter-final in Miami, with more than 400 fans expected. Reporters provide live updates as excitement builds following England’s earlier win over Mexico.

A mural depicting footballers Jude Bellingham and Morgan Rogers eating orange chips was installed on the side of the Classic Fryer in Quinton by artist Dion Kitson, drawing strong positive reactions from locals and social media users. Created with Photoshop and installed without commission, the artwork appears ahead of England’s World Cup quarter-final against Norway. Kitson previously gained attention for a similar mural featuring Sam Allardyce, who expressed appreciation for the tribute.

Five people were injured in a major house fire on Dudley Road East in Oldbury after emergency services responded to the incident on July 10. Multiple fire crews attended due to the severity of the blaze, and police and ambulance services were also on scene. Authorities confirmed five casualties but provided no details on injuries, and crews left the location early the following morning.

A construction worker died after falling from Birmingham Children’s Hospital on July 10. BSN Group Construction confirmed the incident, expressed condolences and said it is cooperating with West Midlands Police, the Health and Safety Executive and other authorities. The hospital’s NHS trust and police also offered sympathies, with investigations ongoing.

Marks & Spencer issued a recall for its 150g M&S Food Truffle Gouda after detecting potential Listeria monocytogenes contamination, prompting warnings that the bacteria can cause flu-like symptoms and pose serious risks to vulnerable groups. Customers are advised not to eat the product and to return it for a full refund, with point‑of‑sale notices displayed across stores. Trading Standards emphasised the health risks associated with listeria and confirmed that only the specified date code is affected.

Four fire crews responded to a fire on Bullock Street in an industrial area of West Bromwich, with the public advised to avoid the area. West Midlands Fire Service confirmed crews were on scene, and further updates were expected as a reporter headed there.

High temperatures are causing rail disruption across the West Midlands, with West Midlands Railway confirming replacement buses between Bromsgrove and Longbridge on Sunday and a full closure of the Camp Hill line. The heatwave, the third of the year, has pushed temperatures above 30C, prompting alterations to protect the rail network as conditions ease slightly into the following week.

A building fire reported on Marston Lane in Nuneaton caused traffic alerts early in the morning, though disruption remained minimal. The AA reported that traffic in both directions was coping well, and emergency services were contacted for further information.

Police data released under a Freedom of Information request shows the highest‑ranking West Midlands shoplifter committed 92 offences in 2025, far exceeding the top offenders in 2023 and 2024. Charge and summons rates varied significantly among individuals, with one 2024 offender receiving action for all offences. Police say targeted activity, patrols and cooperation with businesses have improved positive outcomes despite rising shoplifting levels across the region.

Local pride grows in Stourbridge as club officials praise Jude Bellingham’s standout World Cup performances ahead of England’s match against Norway. Stourbridge FC highlights his consistency and impact after scoring twice against Mexico, with expectations high for another strong showing. More than 400 fans are expected to gather at the club to watch the game, as optimism grows that England can progress, though a potential semi-final against Argentina is viewed as a difficult challenge.

A Stourbridge pub issued an apology after announcing that under-18s will not be allowed to attend Saturday’s 10 p.m. viewing of England’s World Cup quarter-final match against Norway. The Ashwood in Wordsley said it was informed of the restriction at short notice and acknowledged the inconvenience for families. The match, kicking off in Miami, follows England’s 3–2 win over Mexico.

A crash on the M6 between Junctions 5 and 4A caused delays exceeding an hour after vehicles were moved to the hard shoulder. National Highways reported that all lanes had reopened and delays were expected to ease, while emergency services were contacted for further information.

Cysters has been named AMBER’s Charity Partner of the Year in a collaboration aimed at improving menstrual health, maternal wellbeing and reproductive health within South Asian communities. The partnership will support education campaigns, events and access to essential items such as baby milk while addressing stigma around women’s health. Leaders from both organisations emphasise the importance of community-led action and using lived experience to drive long-term change.

A West Bromwich bus driver’s petition calling for mandatory air conditioning on UK buses has gained more than 2,000 signatures following recent extreme heat conditions. The campaign highlights health and safety concerns after red weather warnings in late June and upcoming amber heat-health alerts. National Express West Midlands acknowledged the issue, noting new electric buses include air conditioning but saying retrofitting older buses has historically been cost‑ineffective. Government and regional transport bodies have been contacted for comment as support for the petition continues to grow.

Taser use by West Midlands Police concentrated in major urban areas between 2020 and 2025, with Birmingham accounting for nearly half of all deployments. Most incidents involved lower‑force actions such as red dot, drawing, or aiming, while firing and contact use were comparatively rare. Birmingham recorded the highest usage across all categories, while Solihull saw the lowest. Police officials emphasize training, scrutiny, and the role of non‑firing deployments in de‑escalation. Officers have recently begun using the newly approved Axon Taser 10.

UK search dogs, including Luna from West Midlands Fire Service, have joined international rescue efforts in Venezuela after devastating twin earthquakes killed more than 1,450 people and left tens of thousands missing. Six UK canines and their handlers were deployed with support from the Royal Air Force and specialist equipment to aid in the search for survivors. Photos show the dogs working alongside the UK International Search and Rescue team in the heavily affected areas.