Lewis Adams

School pupils and residents are being invited to share stories about Corby as part of the town’s bid to become the UK’s first Town of Culture in 2028. Corby is one of 15 shortlisted towns competing for a £3m prize, with students from Tresham College and other sixth forms contributing to the bid logo and partners exploring a social media campaign and high-profile ambassadors. The final submission is due by 30 November, followed by a judges’ visit in the new year.

Essex Police have ended their review into whether convicted murderer Luke D'Wit was responsible for additional fentanyl-related deaths, including those of his father Vernon and grandfather. After examining past incidents, interviewing witnesses and conducting forensic work, police consulted the Crown Prosecution Service and decided not to pursue further charges, partly because of the cost relative to D'Wit's existing life sentence. D'Wit is serving a minimum 37-year term for poisoning Stephen and Carol Baxter in West Mersea in 2023 after befriending them and secretly adding fentanyl to their smoothies.

Drill artist Noble Nwokocha, known as Drilla and a member of the group 3x3, was returned to prison for four years and eight months after admitting to possessing a revolver at a Probation Service meeting in Laindon, Essex. Police found the converted blank-firing weapon in his coat while arresting him in connection with a drug investigation. Nwokocha, who had previously been convicted of supplying heroin and cocaine, claimed gang associates had forced him to hold the gun, but detectives said he was seeking to project an image of weapons, criminality and status. Police contrasted the image promoted in drill videos and on social media with the consequences of criminal activity, including imprisonment, violence and loss of freedom.

A Greater Anglia train carrying 62 passengers derailed south of Wickford station in Essex after departing from Southend Victoria for London Liverpool Street. The train remained upright and nobody was injured, but a second train was evacuated and services from Wickford were cancelled. Network Rail warned of major disruption through at least Saturday. Investigators from the Rail Accident Investigation Branch are examining whether the exceptionally hot weather contributed, while officials said it was too early to speculate on the cause.

Phillip Curson, 53, has been sentenced to 27 months in prison for violent disorder during clashes outside the Bell Hotel in Epping on 17 July 2025. Police body-camera footage showed him shoving an officer and making threats, while prosecutors said an aggressive mob attacked police, injuring seven officers and damaging vans. Curson claimed he acted in the heat of the moment and in self-defence. He is the eighth person sentenced over the disorder and the seventh to receive a prison term.

A two-year-old child was seriously injured after being struck by a masked rider on an electric bicycle outside Clacton Coastal Academy in Clacton-on-Sea. The child was airlifted to hospital after the collision on Pathfields Road, and the rider fled the scene. Essex Police described the bike as having a scrambler design and red handlebars and appealed for information while warning about the wider impact of dangerous and anti-social use of e-bikes, e-scooters and motorcycles.

Roy Brett, owner of RJ Brett Contracts Ltd, received a six-month suspended prison sentence after admitting four environmental-law breaches linked to a dangerously cluttered skip-hire yard in Cressing, Essex. The site lacked a waste-management permit and sealed drainage, and contained nearly 50 skips and large quantities of building waste, creating risks of pollution, fire and harm to people. Brett must clear the yard by November, complete 30 days of rehabilitation activities and pay a £154 surcharge; his company also pleaded guilty to four offences.

HMS Severn has docked in Harwich for the first time since the 1960s during a crew change. The Royal Navy patrol vessel regularly monitors Russian ships in UK waters and the North Atlantic, with such activity increasing by 25% in July compared with the previous year. Local defence representatives welcomed the ship's return, while Indy Wijenayaka argued that the UK and other European countries need to improve defence innovation and protect critical coastal infrastructure.

The Music Man Project, a disability music group founded in Essex by David Stanley, has raised £150,000 during an 18-month campaign to perform on Broadway. The group will stage Music is Magic on Broadway, The Story of The Music Man Project at New York’s Town Hall Theatre on 7 October. The performance will fulfil a dream championed by the late Southend West MP Sir David Amess, who was the charity’s president before his murder in 2021. Founded in 1999 with one student in Southend-on-Sea, the group now includes more than 500 musicians and has performed across Europe, the United States and at the Royal Albert Hall.

Border Force seized 2.9 tonnes of cocaine worth an estimated £232m from a banana shipment at London Gateway Port in Thurrock, Essex, after a tip-off from the National Crime Agency. The drugs were removed before the trailer was taken to an address near Buntingford in Hertfordshire. Nine men allegedly linked to the shipment were arrested and later released on bail. The NCA said the seizure prevented substantial profits from returning to organized crime.

Border Force seized 2.9 tonnes of cocaine worth an estimated £232m after it arrived at London Gateway Port in Thurrock hidden in a shipment of South American bananas. The National Crime Agency had alerted authorities, and the drugs were removed before a courier took the empty trailer to an address near Buntingford in Hertfordshire. Nine men allegedly linked to the operation were arrested and later released on bail. The seizure was described by senior investigating officer Dave Phillips as a major blow to an organised crime group and its anticipated profits.

A helpline has been established for businesses and residents affected by a major fire and fertiliser-store explosion at Highlands Farm near Rettendon, Essex. Chelmsford City Council is offering emergency grants, temporary workspace and possible business-rates relief, while the return of displaced residents and firms remains uncertain. More than 100 firefighters attended, with four hospitalised for minor injuries and 16 others treated for issues including hearing loss. Essex County Fire & Rescue Service, the Health and Safety Executive and other authorities are investigating the incident.

A major fire at an industrial site near Rettendon, Essex, triggered an explosion when stored fertiliser ignited, sending a fireball and debris into the air. More than 100 firefighters attended at the height of the incident, while residents were evacuated or advised to keep windows closed because of heavy smoke. The fire service said there was no wider risk to the public and that everyone at the scene was safe, although the presence of casualties was initially unclear. The response was scaled back the following morning, with crews remaining to extinguish residual fires. Several buildings, vehicles and business units were damaged, and the cause of the fire was under investigation.

A day-tripper reportedly swam out three times and brought two children back to shore during a rescue attempt at West Mersea beach. Shally Rahman, 41, and her daughter Samiha Rahman, 15, died after entering the water while trying to save a seven-year-old boy, who was airlifted to hospital in critical condition. Other relatives and bystanders, including local café workers and an off-duty paramedic, also helped. Essex Police are investigating how the group became stranded, possibly after the boy was cut off by the tide, and are appealing for witnesses.

A mother, Shally Rahman, 41, and her 15-year-old daughter, Samiha Rahman, died at West Mersea beach while trying to rescue a seven-year-old boy from the water. Witnesses said an unnamed day-tripper swam out three times and brought two children back to shore, while local teenagers, residents and an off-duty paramedic also assisted. The boy was airlifted to hospital in critical condition, and Essex Police are investigating how the incident unfolded and appealing for witnesses.

Barry Hearn announced a substantial five‑year Matchroom sponsorship deal for Brentwood Town FC, aiming to help the club achieve Football League status within five years. The club recently missed promotion to the National League South, and the investment is expected to support infrastructure improvements and player recruitment. Chairman Jez Dickinson said the financial and advisory backing is crucial as the club targets multiple promotions to reach the Football League.

Two serious incidents forced closures on separate westbound sections of the A14 near Rothwell in Northamptonshire and Bar Hill in Cambridgeshire. A van fire caused a diesel spill between Rothwell and Kelmarsh, while a multi-vehicle collision and car fire occurred near Bar Hill, leading to lane closures toward Girton and the M11. Emergency services managed both scenes, with diversions in place and one casualty treated by fire crews before being handed to paramedics.

A 15-year-old Northamptonshire boy has been charged with 22 sexual offences against eight girls aged 10 to 15 alleged to have occurred between 2023 and 2025. After a brief hearing at Wellingborough Youth Court, the case was transferred to Northampton Crown Court for an August date, with the defendant released on bail under strict conditions. Details of locations were withheld to protect victim anonymity.

A former Suffolk crime reporter, Michael Steward, has drawn on years of covering major cases, including the disappearances of Corrie Mckeague and Victoria Hall, to write a new crime fiction novel titled Kingsland. The book, his second in a series, is inspired by the emotional complexity he encountered while reporting on investigations and interacting with police, lawyers, and families affected by crime. He highlights how unresolved cases and advancements in DNA testing have shaped his understanding of real-life investigations.

Trading Standards seized 470 non‑compliant toys across North Northamptonshire after finding strong chemical odours and harmful substances in popular dumpling squishies sold informally. Council leaders stressed the importance of child safety, noting that legitimate toys should carry proper product identification. Parents were urged to be cautious when buying these trending items.

A crash near junction 31 of the M25 at Lakeside caused severe delays lasting up to eight hours as lane closures, a spillage and hot weather complicated resurfacing work. Gridlock spread across Chafford Hundred, Purfleet and Grays, with queues reportedly stretching ten miles. National Highways apologised and announced an internal review of its incident management, while local drivers and bus operators expressed frustration over the disruption.

Fans in Suffolk expressed disappointment after England lost 2-1 to Argentina in the World Cup semi-final in Atlanta, despite leading through Anthony Gordon’s early second-half goal. Late strikes from Enzo Fernández and Lautaro Martínez ended hopes of reaching a first men’s final since 1966. Supporters at Brantham Leisure Centre described being heartbroken but praised the team’s progress under their new manager.

Henry Patten celebrated winning the Wimbledon men’s doubles title with partner Harri Heliovaara by joking about having a statue in his hometown of Manningtree, which he praised for its countryside and local character. The pair, now world number ones, defeated Marcelo Arevalo and Mate Pavic in straight tiebreak sets to secure their second Wimbledon title together. Patten said he plans to show Heliovaara around Manningtree, while his partner joked about avoiding any statue of him. The article highlights Patten’s local ties and the duo’s continued success since teaming up in 2024.

A boy died in hospital after being struck by a lorry on Epping Road in Chipping Ongar, prompting police to arrest the 48-year-old driver on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving. The driver was released on bail as the investigation continues, and officers are appealing for witnesses and dashcam footage. The child’s family is receiving specialist support, and the road was closed following the incident.

An amateur cricketer from Colchester, Matt Murray, secretly wrote a thriller during his final months of cancer treatment, revealing its existence to his family only shortly before his death. His brother Jamie helped publish the 164-page book, which was launched during a memorial match. The family hopes proceeds will support the Teenage Cancer Trust, reflecting Murray’s determination to live fully and positively despite his long battle with illness.

A second man has been charged in connection with the fatal stabbing of 18-year-old Fariss Kapaga-Fakeer in Milton Keynes. Thames Valley Police charged 26-year-old Ja'siah Highton with murder, following an earlier charge against 19-year-old Salim Moludi. Police searches extended to an address in Gloucester, while a woman arrested on suspicion of assisting an offender remains on bail.

Nigel Farage defended his resignation as Clacton MP and decision to seek re‑election, rejecting accusations from opposition parties that the move is a publicity stunt amid scrutiny of his finances and a parliamentary investigation. Labour, the Conservatives, the Liberal Democrats and the Green Party said they will boycott the proposed 6 August by‑election, which Reform UK plans to initiate by moving the writ. Farage denied wrongdoing related to a £5m gift from a Reform donor and dismissed questions about undeclared support from George Cottrell. He accused rival parties of avoiding a contest and called for voters to judge him directly. Additional candidates, including Laurence Fox and Count Binface, have announced plans to run, while Chancellor Rachel Reeves confirmed Farage’s resignation. Farage pledged to focus on local issues such as potholes and housing if re‑elected and framed the by‑election as crucial to advancing Reform UK’s political goals.

Nigel Farage defended his resignation as Clacton MP, insisting it was not a publicity stunt and arguing voters should judge him amid scrutiny over undeclared financial benefits. He accused major political parties of avoiding the by-election out of fear and denied wrongdoing related to financial support from Christopher Harborne and George Cottrell. A parliamentary investigation into a £5m gift will pause during the by-election and may resume if he is re-elected. Farage said he aims to continue Reform UK’s political momentum, pledged local improvements, and criticised media treatment of his family. Rachel Reeves confirmed his resignation, while new challengers, including Laurence Fox and Count Binface, entered the race.

Ofsted reports significant improvement at Mossbourne Fobbing Academy following its takeover by Mossbourne Federation, citing clearer behaviour policies, improved attendance and a calmer learning environment. The stricter rules prompted concerns among some parents, and inspectors urged better communication from school leaders to explain new systems. Staff expressed strong support for the changes, though some older pupils remain sceptical of the rationale behind new sanctions. Thirteen pupils have withdrawn since the policy shift, and councillors previously noted broader concerns at a Thurrock Council meeting.

Police say a man who died after falling from Grampian Tower in Westcliff-on-Sea is no longer the subject of a suspect search, describing the death as unexpected but not involving other individuals. The incident followed reports of a disturbance before the man was found and died at the scene. Detectives continue to investigate, appealing for footage and maintaining a presence at the tower as they support the man's family and seek further details.

Gary Mansfield, 65, appeared at Chelmsford Crown Court charged with the murder and attempted murder of his mother, Janet Mansfield, after she was found dead in Brentwood. He was remanded in custody ahead of a plea hearing in September, with a trial set for November. Essex Police said it was supporting the victim’s family.

Former Royal Marine Pen Farthing completed two high‑risk missions to evacuate nearly 200 animals from Kramatorsk as Russian forces advanced toward the city. He described drone warfare in eastern Ukraine as terrifying and unlike his previous experience in Afghanistan, stressing that drones constantly hunted people on the front line. Farthing and volunteers, including veterinarian Angela Stoop, transported rescued animals to safer shelters while navigating dangerous roads and drone threats. He expressed gratitude to supporters of his charity Nowzad and called for continued funding to sustain future rescue operations.

A weekend event at Stow Maries Great War Aerodrome in Essex will feature reenactments spanning 1,000 years of British history, from the Anglo‑Saxon and Viking periods to World War One. The aerodrome, established in 1916 and noted as the world’s largest surviving WW1 airfield, will host demonstrations, talks, weapon displays and a public debate on women’s suffrage. Organisers expect diverse historical portrayals and strong visitor engagement.

A man died after falling from the Grampian tower block in Westcliff-on-Sea following reports of a disturbance early in the morning. Essex Police are treating the death as unexpected and are conducting inquiries including door-to-door checks and CCTV review. Witnesses reported hearing screams, crashing glass and shouting before emergency services arrived. No arrests have been made, and police are appealing for information.

A 25-year-old Indian student, Vamshi Krishna Mandala, was one of two people killed when a two-seat Cessna aircraft crashed in a field near High Ongar shortly after taking off from North Weald Airfield. Mandala had booked the 30‑minute flight to celebrate finishing university and planned to surprise his parents in India. Relatives expressed grief and called for answers, while the Indian High Commission said it was assisting the family. Essex Police continue to investigate, with forensic searches completed and post‑mortem examinations pending. The second victim has not yet been identified.

Wreckage from a fatal two-person Cessna crash in High Ongar has been removed after a three‑day investigation by Essex Police and the Air Accidents Investigation Branch. The aircraft, which had departed from North Weald Airfield for a 30‑minute flight experience, crashed eight minutes after takeoff. Formal identification of the victims is ongoing using DNA and fingerprints, and authorities are appealing for witness information as inquiries conclude at the scene.

A masked protester, Luke Fleming, received a suspended prison sentence for violent disorder during clashes outside an asylum hotel in Epping. The court heard he attacked police vans and officers, motivated by hostility toward asylum seekers, though his ADHD diagnosis reduced culpability. Clashes escalated after counter-demonstrators arrived, resulting in injuries to several officers. Fleming will serve a curfew as part of his sentence. Several other protesters have already been jailed, with more sentencing to follow.

A nurse at Broomfield Hospital was removed from the Nursing and Midwifery Council register after repeated incidents linked to poor English proficiency and clinical mistakes that caused harm to patients. The regulator found she failed to recognise a seizure, administered incorrect insulin dosage and forced medication into a patient’s mouth, concluding language issues worsened underlying poor practice. She had not worked at the hospital since 2022 and did not participate in misconduct proceedings.