Lauren Chaloner

West Mercia Police are searching for 13-year-old Summah, who was reported missing from Redditch after last being seen at about 6:30 p.m. on August 11. She may be in Redditch, Birmingham or Coventry. Police provided a description of her clothing and appearance and asked anyone with information to call 101, quoting log 553i of August 11.

Ragley Hall Estate in Alcester cancelled a small private fireworks display after members of the public raised concerns about fire risks amid recent wildfires and dry weather. Although local authorities reportedly considered the event low risk, the estate said it had decided to cancel after reviewing the feedback and weather conditions. Community members welcomed the decision and praised the venue for acting responsibly.

Maisie was the most popular girls’ name in Redditch in 2025, given to seven babies, replacing Olivia at the top. Alfie, George, Noah and Theodore jointly led the boys’ rankings, with each name given to nine babies. Baby-name preferences varied across Worcestershire: Theodore and Willow topped the rankings in Worcester, Oscar and Lily in Wychavon, Leo and Theo alongside Bonnie, Isla and Simona in Bromsgrove, and Noah and Olivia in Wyre Forest.

England goalkeeper Hannah Hampton, who is from Studley and plays for Chelsea Women, has received an Honorary Doctorate in Sports Science from the University of Wolverhampton. The award recognizes her football achievements, contributions to women’s football and inspirational personal journey, including overcoming strabismus. Hampton’s career includes winning UEFA Women’s Euro 2022 and helping England reach the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup final, with further acclaim for her performances at Euro 2025.

Redditch Borough Council will carry out vegetation management works this autumn near Barnwood Close and Rickyard Lane. The overgrown planted boundary will be reduced to make it easier to maintain as a hedge, while established and higher-quality trees will be retained and given more space to thrive. Shrubs, self-seeded growth and poorer-quality trees will be cut back to around two metres, with some trees removed where necessary. Councillor Brandon Clayton said the work is intended to improve the area's long-term condition and sustainability, while acknowledging that the immediate results may look significant to residents.

A meeting between Redditch MP Chris Bloore and Cancer Research UK ambassador Chloe Bishop underscored concerns over long cancer diagnosis wait times, limited access to treatment and pressure on NHS staff. Bloore pledged to take these concerns to government, calling for faster diagnostics, improved treatment access and sustained research funding to ensure equitable, urgent cancer care across the UK.

Orchardfest will return to a new Bromsgrove venue on August 21–22, offering expanded camping, live music from local bands, and a family‑friendly atmosphere while raising funds for Primrose Hospice. The event, founded in memory of Trish Morgan, is supported by volunteer performers and sponsor Kelly Plant Hire, with organisers aiming to surpass the £36,325 raised in 2024.

Hundreds of visitors attended the 39th Astwood Bank Carnival, where a book‑themed procession and performances filled the village with entertainment. The showground at Sandhills Farm featured rides, displays, live music and community showcases, while organisers noted the event’s ongoing role in supporting local projects, with around £10,000 reinvested into the community over the past year.

A man in his 60s died after a collision between a red Lambretta scooter and a Volkswagen Tiguan on the B4380 in Wroxeter. West Mercia Police issued an appeal for witnesses, particularly the occupants of a red Kia and a white Vauxhall Corsa who were in the area at the time but not believed to be involved. Officers requested any relevant CCTV or dashcam footage to support the investigation.

Redditch SummerFest 2026 drew large crowds as JLS member Oritsé Williams headlined a day of live performances in the town centre. Redditch BID highlighted the strong community atmosphere and the mix of nationally recognised acts and local performers. Attendees praised the event on social media, calling it a successful and enjoyable day.

A yellow heat health alert has been issued across the West Midlands as temperatures are forecast to reach up to 33C, prompting warnings from health officials about risks to vulnerable people and increased strain on health and social care services. The UK Health Security Agency highlighted potential water-related dangers, while the Met Office noted a prolonged period of hot weather that will be less intense than the previous heatwave.

A factory warehouse on Woolaston Road in Redditch has been listed for sale at £2.85 million under a sale-and-leaseback arrangement, with Edward Thomas Interiors remaining as the tenant on a new ten‑year lease. John Truslove’s Ian Parker expects strong investor interest, citing the site’s high‑quality facilities and strong motorway links. The property offers extensive warehouse and office space, a secure yard and parking, and generates £190,000 in annual rent at a 6.67% gross yield.

Metres Direct is expanding its operations after securing a larger site on Redditch’s Lakeside Industrial Estate. Owner Joe Phillips worked with property agent Ben Truslove of John Truslove to obtain a five‑year lease on a refurbished 13,000‑square‑foot unit. Increased demand is driving the move, with expectations of future staff growth. The new location offers substantial warehouse, manufacturing, and office space, and is highlighted as well‑positioned for wider transport links.

Police are appealing for information to locate Shaun Arnold, a 49-year-old wanted on recall to prison with links to Redditch, Studley, Warwick and Birmingham. West Mercia Police urge anyone with information on his whereabouts to contact them and reference case number 22/30167/26.