Liam Doyle

A wildfire sparked by a van fire on the A31 near Ringwood burned an area equivalent to about 140 football pitches in the New Forest. Forestry England found that the blaze destroyed vegetation, heathland, seed banks, bogs, wildlife habitats and a significant number of ancient beech and oak trees, with full ecological recovery expected to take decades. Restoration plans include using heather cuttings from a previously damaged and recovered area to protect the soil and support reseeding. Fire and emergency services helped prevent the blaze from spreading further, while National Highways is repairing fencing, road surfaces and vehicle barriers to keep animals off the A31.

Ariana Rose, 40, was jailed for five years after using house-sitting and landlady scams to steal about £67,000 from victims in Warwickshire. Police recovered jewellery, World War One medals, a CBE, books, ornaments and other valuables from her property, while evidence showed she spent the proceeds on luxury holidays, food, designer clothing and a Rolex. Rose pleaded guilty to multiple theft, fraud, forgery and perverting-the-course-of-justice charges; Warwickshire Police said many of the stolen items had strong sentimental value for the victims.

Shaun Hall, whose mother Michaela was murdered by her abusive former partner Lee Kendall in 2021, says police and probation authorities missed repeated opportunities to protect her. Kendall had 47 previous convictions, including violence against Michaela, but was released from prison and wrongly classified as a medium-risk offender. Police attended her home on the night of the attack but did not enter, and an officer reportedly said she “didn't help herself.” An inquest found shortcomings and errors in probation procedures. Now 18, Hall is suing the police and probation service with the Good Law Project, seeking accountability and reforms to improve domestic-abuse training, risk assessment and victim protection. Devon and Cornwall Police says it has addressed recommendations, while the Ministry of Justice declined to comment on ongoing legal proceedings.

Residents of Benenden, Kent, staged a protest spelling “help us” with empty water bottles after prolonged supply problems left some without water for up to five days. South East Water blamed critically low storage levels during drought conditions and provided bottled-water stations, but residents and businesses criticised the distribution of supplies and the company’s repeated outages. Defra called the disruption unacceptable and demanded faster action on leaks and drought planning. Local MP Katie Lam also called for fundamental transformation. The incident follows earlier failures affecting thousands of households and a £30.5 million Ofwat redress package, including a proposed £22 million fine for outages between 2020 and 2023.

The family of Blake Gallier, a 13-year-old from Kent who died last year, believes disturbing social-media content contributed to her death, although an inquest has not yet taken place. Her mother Gemma Best and sister Tayla Gallier are supporting the Raise The Age campaign for a ban on social media for under-16s, after finding suicide-normalising videos and other worrying material on Blake's phone. They have also launched Blake's Pink Promise, which is funding counselling for pupils and adults in the Gravesham area. The story links their campaign to wider reforms, including the proposed UK under-16 social-media ban and Jools' Law, which enables access to deceased children's digital data for investigations. The Samaritans is signposted as a 24-hour source of support.

Residents of Bibury in the Cotswolds opposed plans by Bibury Trout Farm to convert storage space into a cafe and shopping area, arguing that the village is already overwhelmed by tourist coaches, congestion, parking pressure, noise and pedestrian-safety risks. Cotswold District Council unanimously rejected the proposal after receiving more than 100 objections, with planners and the Highway Authority citing inadequate evidence that safe access could be provided. The decision comes amid a separate dispute over extensive renovation work at Rosemary Cottage, which locals say damages the village's historic character.

New-build homes in the UK have reached indoor temperatures of 30–32°C during a heatwave, with some residents describing their properties as saunas and struggling to cool them even with windows open. Citizens Advice says half of tenants and 40% of homeowners lack sufficient control over overheating, citing fixed or locked windows and poorly designed housing. The charity reports that some residents have resorted to sleeping in cooler rooms or balconies or booking air-conditioned hotels. Building experts, including Apmbuild, say highly insulated, airtight homes can act like vacuum flasks, retaining heat in summer as well as warmth in winter. Citizens Advice is urging the government to use the Warm Homes Plan to improve insulation, ventilation and heat networks.

The British Army has deployed personnel, including Gurkhas and engineers, to South Wales and other parts of England and Wales to support firefighters battling hundreds of wildfires. Ten major fires in South Wales prompted logistical, planning and operational assistance, while authorities issued a national high-risk wildfire alert and temporarily banned disposable barbecues. National Fire Chiefs Council data recorded 1,017 fires during the year, with officials attributing the worsening conditions to human behavior, extreme heat, drought and climate change.

Amazon and eBay removed disposable barbecue listings after The Mirror found the products still available for purchase despite emergency government guidance banning their sale during exceptionally hot and dry conditions. Other major retailers had already withdrawn the products. The UK Government said disposable BBQs posed a significant risk to people and the environment amid record wildfires, while regulators could impose sanctions for non-compliance. The restrictions will remain under review until weather conditions reduce the fire threat.

Fire services in England and Wales asked residents not to call 999 simply to report neighbours barbecuing after a government emergency alert prompted a surge in such calls. Services said people should call only about genuine emergencies, fires producing significant smoke, or immediate risks to life, property or the environment. The warning came amid severe dry weather, widespread wildfires, 19 homes destroyed in Stourbridge, military support for firefighting, and more than 1,000 fires recorded across England and Wales.

A major solar eclipse darkened parts of the UK and western Europe, with totality visible in areas of Spain, France and Iceland and up to 98.5% coverage in parts of Britain. Large crowds gathered at viewing sites including Land’s End, Cardiff Bay, Greenwich Park and the National Space Centre in Leicester, while witnesses described the event as awe-inspiring, emotional and community-building. Cloud cover disrupted views in some locations, particularly Iceland, but the eclipse was widely observed across Europe and partially visible in parts of North America, Africa and elsewhere. It was described as the last total solar eclipse visible from British shores for roughly six to seven decades.

A new Severe Weather Europe forecast says the 2026 Super El Niño is strengthening rapidly and could reach historically extreme levels later in the year. Its effects are expected to prolong hot conditions in the UK and produce warmer-than-normal temperatures across much of Europe through autumn, while also increasing rainfall and moisture that could provide relief from drought. The phenomenon is linked to unusually strong Pacific westerly winds, subsurface ocean heat and a Kelvin wave, with UK politicians calling for stronger government preparation for climate-related risks.

Three-year-old James called 999 after his mother, Georgia, collapsed and became unconscious at their home in Doncaster. He explained the emergency to call handler Jen, who calmly assessed the situation and arranged for police officers to attend; Georgia regained consciousness during the call. Police praised James's awareness and communication, and he was given a toy helicopter by officers Jordan Kassim and Charlotte Wright. His parents are encouraging other families to teach children how and when to call 999.

UN experts have called on the United Arab Emirates to release British businessman Ryan Cornelius, 72, who has remained imprisoned in Dubai after his original 10-year sentence for alleged fraud against Dubai Islamic Bank was extended by 20 years in 2018. The experts found that the extension followed serious judicial irregularities and that his detention had already been deemed arbitrary. Cornelius's family says he has endured harsh conditions, including seven weeks in solitary confinement, and has missed nearly two decades of family milestones, including the birth of his first grandchild. His wife and brother-in-law have criticized the UK government for failing to intervene effectively, while the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office was contacted for comment.

Downing Street says it cannot simply exclude Jessie Cole and Albert Bowers from the government's early-release scheme because manslaughter of an emergency worker is not a standalone offence. The pair, convicted over the 2019 death of PC Andrew Harper, could be released halfway through their 13-year sentences, while driver Henry Long is ineligible because of his 16-year sentence. The government has added rape and serious child-sex offences to the exemptions but left manslaughter out, prompting an apology to Harper's family and a petition signed by more than 880,000 people. Ministers say they want to explore further options while addressing prison overcrowding, under which about 5,000 offenders are expected to be released early.

The UK is facing a fifth heatwave of summer 2026, with temperatures forecast to reach around 36C in parts of England and Wales, particularly on Thursday. Heat-health alerts cover seven English regions, while half of England and all of Wales are officially in drought. Water restrictions could expand beyond existing hosepipe bans, with the National Drought Group considering further drought declarations and Southern Water seeking powers to prohibit activities such as car washing and filling pools. Prolonged dry weather has increased wildfire risks, including major blazes in Suffolk and the New Forest, where firefighters are tackling a fire that spread from a burning lorry to heathland near the A31.

Surfers Against Sewage recorded 765 reports of illness after visits to 406 UK coastal locations in 2026, including beaches with Blue Flag status or excellent official water-quality ratings. Bournemouth, Croyde Bay, Polzeath and Rest Bay were among the locations with the most reports, with symptoms ranging from gastrointestinal illness to ear, respiratory and skin conditions. The charity attributes the problem to sewage discharges and calls for an end to water privatization, while the Environment Agency and Natural Resources Wales stress that contamination can come from multiple sources and advise checking pollution alerts and following open-water safety guidance.

More than 200 suspected deaths and over 150,000 adverse reactions involving weight-loss and diabetes drugs have been reported through the MHRA’s Yellow Card Scheme. The reports include 120 deaths and 106,189 adverse reactions associated with tirzepatide, sold as Mounjaro; 59 deaths and 48,089 reactions linked to semaglutide, used in Wegovy, Ozempic and Rybelsus; and 37 deaths and 4,491 reactions involving liraglutide, sold as Saxenda. The MHRA stressed that reports indicate suspected links rather than confirmed causation and said the benefits of GLP-1 drugs currently outweigh their risks when used as authorised. Research cited in the report estimates that 4.9 million adults in Great Britain have recently used or are considering using weight-loss drugs, raising concerns about use without medical supervision and potential misuse.

An ombudsman investigation found that Mrs Y, an elderly Portsmouth woman who relied on home care after a fall and mini-stroke, experienced a catalogue of failures by Radis Community Care and inadequate oversight by Portsmouth City Council. She was mistakenly fed microwaved dog food, received stale or insufficient food, was left unattended and wet for prolonged periods, and may have been force-fed. Staff failed to follow her soft-diet plan, maintain accurate records and provide appropriate medication and personal care, while the council delayed a safeguarding investigation. The council accepted the findings, apologised, refunded care fees and paid the family £1,000, while ending its contract with Radis; the provider said the dog-food incident was unacceptable and that it had since improved its procedures.

A petition with almost 1,000 signatures calls for Amanda Knox's Edinburgh Fringe show, Cartwheel, to be cancelled. Meredith Kercher's sister Stephanie says the performance turns her family's pain over Kercher's rape and murder into entertainment and cannot understand how the case can be treated comedically. Petition organizer Sally Alington similarly argues that the show trivializes violence against women. Knox's spokeswoman denies these characterizations, saying the one-woman show focuses on motherhood, wrongful imprisonment and raising a daughter in a dangerous world, while Gilded Balloon defended hosting it as part of the Fringe's commitment to freedom of expression.

Health Secretary Yvette Cooper has promised a root-and-branch review of UK maternity services and new national standards, arguing that care must better reflect mothers’ needs and that women should not feel pressured to pursue an “ideal birth.” The pledge follows investigations into traumatic NHS experiences and serious failures at Nottingham University Hospitals and Shrewsbury and Telford, including understaffing, clinical errors and cultures that failed to listen to mothers. A case at Worcestershire Royal Hospital, where Vicky Eadon-Guest was discharged despite bleeding and later readmitted with infection and internal bleeding, illustrates the patient-safety concerns driving calls for urgent reform.

Cristiano Ronaldo has shown more than 20 of the luxury cars in his collection, including several Bugattis, a Mercedes-AMG ONE, a McLaren Senna, a Lamborghini Aventador, a Bentley Flying Spur and a Mercedes G-Wagon Brabus. The wider collection is estimated to contain more than 40 vehicles and could be worth up to £22 million. Ronaldo previously said he has lost count of the exact number and regards the cars primarily as collectibles and investments rather than vehicles he intends to drive.

A partial solar eclipse will be visible across the UK on August 12, 2026, with more than 90% of the Sun covered in many areas. It will begin between about 6:01pm and 6:18pm depending on location, reach maximum coverage around 7pm to 7:15pm, and end between 7:52pm and 8:09pm. Cornwall, south-west Wales and south-west Ireland offer some of the highest coverage, while elevated sites with a clear western horizon are recommended for viewing. Regular or multiple sunglasses, smoked glass and other improvised filters are unsafe; viewers should use undamaged ISO 12312-2-compliant eclipse glasses or indirect methods such as a pinhole projector. The Perseid meteor shower will peak overnight after the eclipse, potentially producing 50 to 100 meteors per hour under favourable conditions.

Nigel Farage has unveiled a new version of Reform UK's controversial 2016 “breaking point” poster, this time depicting migrants in Ceuta, prompting accusations that it is inflammatory and nonsensical. He also proposed using the Royal Navy to intercept small boats and return migrants to France or Belgium, but former naval personnel, defence experts and the government questioned the plan's practicality, legality, cost and dependence on French cooperation. The government said Channel crossings are down substantially compared with last year and highlighted efforts against trafficking gangs. The update also covers mounting pressure on Farage over party finances, Richard Tice's investigation by Parliament's standards watchdog, disputes with Rupert Lowe, and Farage's absence from a Clacton hustings event.

Repeated heatwaves and prolonged drought across England and Wales are damaging wheat and oat production and reducing dairy yields as livestock eat less in extreme heat. National Farmers' Union president Tom Bradshaw warns that the UK could face shortages of some food products and urges the Government to provide tax breaks for farm water-storage systems and invest in reservoirs. Official data shows exceptionally low July rainfall, while dairy farmer Sophie Gregory describes efforts to protect cows from heat and argues that reducing emissions is necessary to prevent worsening heatwaves.

A major wildfire at Dunwich Heath in Suffolk has spread across about 100 hectares and is burning roughly three miles from the Sizewell B nuclear power station and the Sizewell C construction site. Suffolk Fire and Rescue has deployed 18 engines and expects to continue operations for at least another 36 hours. EDF says Sizewell B remains safe, is operating normally and is not currently affected, while fire chief Jon Lacey says the blaze is moving inland and is not expected to spread toward the nuclear sites. Sizewell C is also monitoring smoke and road conditions but considers the current risk low. Sizewell B, which opened in 1995, is scheduled to operate until 2055.

Ava Donnelly, a 21-year-old dental assistant from Belfast, was found safe in Benidorm after disappearing following an early-morning sighting at the Beachcomber Bar in the Llevant area. Her family and friends had circulated appeals across social media and Benidorm holiday groups, asking anyone with information to contact police or her relatives. Donnelly’s mother later confirmed that she had been reunited with loved ones, after earlier false reports that she had been found caused confusion.

New fossils from the Gran Dolina cave at Spain’s Atapuerca archaeological site suggest that Homo antecessor may have cannibalised both adults and children between 770,000 and 1.2 million years ago. Researchers identified cut marks made by stone tools on adult bone fragments, expanding earlier evidence from juvenile remains. The discoveries also indicate that 13 to 15 individuals may have occupied the cave and provide a more complete basis for studying the species’ biology, demographics and social behavior.

The July Buck Moon, also known as the Thunder Moon or Hay Moon, will reach peak illumination over the UK at about 3:36pm BST and should be visible near the horizon later on Wednesday. Its unusually large appearance is an optical effect caused by its low position, while atmospheric filtering may make it look yellow or orange. Clear skies are expected across much of the UK, with recommended viewing locations including Bristol, Gloucestershire and Wiltshire, although cloud and showers could obstruct views in some regions.

Sonia Exelby, a 32-year-old music tutor from Portsmouth, was reported missing on October 12 after leaving the UK and was found dead in Marion County, Florida, five days later. Her parents and siblings have publicly remembered her as a gentle, compassionate and talented woman who struggled with her mental health but was deeply loved by her family, partner and friends. A US affidavit alleges that she travelled to the United States intending to meet people willing to kill her, while Dwain Hall faces trial on suspicion of first-degree murder and kidnapping and denies the charges. Hampshire police are assisting US investigators and supporting the family ahead of the trial.

Wildfires across France, Spain and other parts of Europe have forced more than 360,000 people to evacuate and burned hundreds of thousands of hectares in 2026. French President Emmanuel Macron described France’s fires as the country’s worst fire-related crisis since the Second World War, while authorities reported an unprecedented, self-sustaining blaze in Gironde that had destroyed homes and tens of thousands of hectares. Spain has also recorded substantially more burned land than at the same point in 2025. Experts link the record damage and extreme fire severity to global warming, with another heatwave expected. The fires have disrupted travel plans, and insurance experts warn that only about half of travel policies include catastrophe cover.

A relative says a particularly strong tide pulled Shelina Rahman, 41, and her 15-year-old daughter Sameeha into difficulty at West Mersea beach while they tried to save seven-year-old Musa Rahman. Both died despite rescue and resuscitation efforts, while Musa remains in hospital. The incident occurred shortly before the family planned to leave, and has renewed concerns about water safety at Mersea Island, where tides can rapidly affect access and conditions. The Mirror also highlighted its Save Lives for Sam campaign urging urgent government action after a wider increase in UK open-water drownings.

Multiple regions across England have entered the prolonged dry weather stage, prompting warnings from the National Drought Group that millions more people may face hosepipe bans. Seven major water companies have already imposed restrictions, with 23 million customers under temporary use bans. Central and southeastern England have recorded zero rainfall for 14 consecutive days, nearing records from the 1990s. The Environment Agency warns that the lack of rain and high temperatures are straining water supplies, agriculture, and wildlife. High pressure is expected to maintain dry conditions for at least five more days, with most upcoming rainfall likely limited to Northern Ireland and Scotland.

UK security agencies advised MPs and other public figures to create bulletproof safe rooms and install deterrents such as fog machines and timed lighting amid increasing concerns about targeted attacks. The guidance, issued by the National Protective Security Authority, resurfaced following the killing of former MP Ann Widdecombe, whose death prompted renewed debate over the protection of elected officials. Police arrested Joshua Kerry in connection with the attack, with further terrorism-related suspicions under investigation. Incoming Prime Minister Andy Burnham called for a review of existing MP security measures, while details emerged on the scale and cost of current parliamentary protection arrangements.

Lengthy queues at European airports have followed the rollout of the EU’s Entry/Exit System, which requires biometric registration for non‑EU travellers, including UK citizens. Rome Fiumicino’s aviation chief reports that processing times have tripled and can reach up to two hours, despite system updates. UK authorities advise travellers to expect delays, while some passengers report extensive waits on arrival. The European Commission maintains that disruptions are limited and member states will receive continuing support for improvements.

An elderly Australian couple, Colin and Claudette Geraghty, remain missing a week after escaping the Ryman Nellie Melba Retirement Village, which they reportedly dislike. After being located once in Maryborough, they refused to return and are now staying in a motel. Their daughter, Linda McKelvie, has urged them to come back, expressing pride in their bond but concern for their safety given Claudette’s medical needs. The pair were last seen driving their Mazda 2 and visiting a shopping centre to buy medication before disappearing again.

A 12‑year‑old boy named Sunil was killed by a crocodile while washing in the Ghaghara River in Uttar Pradesh after working with his uncle. Locals attempted but failed to free him, and his remains were recovered hours later. Authorities confirmed the incident, with police and forest officials responding and the state preparing compensation for his surviving siblings amid ongoing concerns about crocodile presence in the area.

Weather models indicate that another heatwave could hit the UK from July 25, with temperatures potentially reaching 35C in southern England and exceeding 30C across central and northern regions. Forecast maps show widespread heat extending from the south coast to Yorkshire, while Scotland could see temperatures near 19C. The Met Office’s long‑range outlook predicts above‑average temperatures but notes that rain and changeable conditions may affect northern areas, while the south is likely to remain drier with sunny spells.

A nurse at Sunderland Royal Hospital received a national bravery award after extinguishing a fire caused when a patient attempted to vape while connected to an oxygen supply. The patient suffered burns but avoided serious injury thanks to the swift response. Hospital leaders praised the nurse’s actions and highlighted the incident as a warning about the dangers of smoking and vaping in medical settings, reinforcing ongoing safety guidance for patients and visitors.

Jordan Adams, a dementia awareness campaigner at high genetic risk of developing frontotemporal dementia, received tickets to the World Cup match between England and Argentina after a social media plea was answered by England midfielder Kobbie Mainoo. FIFA additionally invited him as a special guest and announced a collaboration with the FTD Brothers, the advocacy group led by Jordan and his brother Cian. The siblings have raised nearly £2 million for dementia research in memory of their mother, who died from the disease, and continue to use their platform to promote global awareness.

Keir Starmer prepares for his final Prime Minister’s Questions and concluding days in office while emphasising achievements such as progress on the Hillsborough Law. Andy Burnham moves closer to securing the Labour leadership as party nominations close. Starmer’s week includes diplomatic engagements in France and cabinet meetings ahead of the transition of power. The political atmosphere is shaped by recent events, including the death of Ann Widdecombe, as Parliament approaches a key handover moment.

A rogue elephant named Dhurbe, responsible for at least 25 deaths in Nepal since 2009, repeatedly targeted the family of Shanichara Bote, killing four relatives over 14 years despite their attempts to relocate for safety. The elephant tracked the family across major rivers to a new home in Jagatpur, where it fatally attacked Bote’s daughter-in-law and grandson. Officials from Chitwan National Park confirmed Dhurbe’s movements through a satellite tracking collar, noting that the elephant was in the area at the time of the latest killings.

Human remains were discovered in an abandoned suitcase near a children’s teddy bear hunt in Rochester, prompting a major police response linked to a wider Metropolitan Police murder investigation. Two men, Joshua Miller and Jamie Cooper, were charged in connection with the death of a man whose remains were found, with authorities confirming all parties were known to one another. Parents at the park described shock at the scene, noting the suitcase had been swarmed by flies before police arrived. Both suspects are scheduled to appear in court.

Police are investigating the suspected murder of former MP Ann Widdecombe after new details showed her final text messages to a TV producer, sent minutes before her death. She was scheduled for a Channel 5 interview when communication abruptly stopped and she failed to join a Zoom call. A major police presence remains around her Devon home as investigators search for her killer, having released a previous suspect. Nigel Farage expressed hopes the perpetrator would be identified quickly, citing Widdecombe’s planned involvement in his upcoming Clacton campaign.

Police launched a murder investigation after former MP Ann Widdecombe was found dead with serious injuries at her home in Haytor, Devon. A 26‑year‑old man was arrested and later released with no further involvement. Detectives say they are keeping an open mind and have no evidence of political motivation. Tributes poured in from political leaders, colleagues, broadcasters and public figures, many expressing shock and grief. Investigators continue forensic work at the property and have urged the public to provide any information relevant to the case.

Police arrested a 26-year-old man on suspicion of murder after former Conservative MP Ann Widdecombe was found dead with serious injuries at her home in Devon. Investigators say there is no evidence the killing was politically motivated. Widdecombe, who later joined the Brexit Party and Reform UK, had lived alone since retiring from Parliament in 2010, and her agent confirmed her death while asking for privacy for her family.

Meghan Markle plans to bring Archie and Lilibet to the UK for private family events while Prince Harry continues public engagements promoting the Invictus Games. King Charles is expected to meet his grandchildren for the first time since 2022, following recent encouraging conversations with Harry. Harry’s UK visit includes an emotional appearance at Birmingham Children’s Hospital in support of WellChild, during which he discussed NHS financial pressures and spoke warmly with young patients. Meanwhile, King Charles and Queen Camilla visited London Zoo, and Prince William carried out engagements in East Sussex, expressing confidence in England’s World Cup chances.

Florida legislators renamed Palm Beach International Airport after Donald Trump, prompting public criticism over the break with aviation naming conventions and the perception of political self‑promotion. Eric Trump welcomed the change as the president’s plane made the inaugural landing, while critics on social media objected to both the renaming and the alteration of the airport’s code. The move was enabled by Republican‑controlled state legislation and signed into law by Governor Ron DeSantis.

Nigel Farage’s resignation as MP for Clacton triggered a by-election after Chancellor Rachel Reeves accepted his formal request, prompting major parties to refuse to field candidates and leaving satirical contender Count Binface as his main opponent. Farage faces mounting scrutiny over finances, lobbying, and ongoing investigations, while political leaders from Labour and other parties denounce his move as a distraction. Additional developments include reactions from party figures, fundraising efforts by Count Binface, wider parliamentary disputes, and updates from the NATO summit and domestic justice issues.

A jury convicted Tony Bartlett of murdering his four‑week‑old son Atticus by inflicting catastrophic injuries while alone with the baby at the family home in Chard, Somerset. Police body‑camera footage showed Bartlett falsely claiming the child had suddenly become lifeless. Medical evidence established he caused the fatal injuries, and investigators described the case as devastating for the family. Bartlett will be sentenced at Bristol Crown Court on 24 July.

A young England supporter who spent £10,000 of his house deposit savings to take his grandfather to World Cup matches across the United States and Mexico had the funds reimbursed by online crypto casino Metawin after England’s win over DR Congo. Jacob Allmendinger and his grandad Geoff Golliker gained widespread public attention, receiving supportive messages and being recognised by fans during their trip. The reimbursed money gives Jacob flexibility for future plans, including potentially attending the European Championships or saving for a home.

A body in an advanced state of decomposition washed ashore in Benghazi, Libya, and authorities believe it may be that of missing Italian kitesurfer Mimmo Piepoli, who disappeared off the coast of Puglia on May 1. The remains were found wearing a wetsuit and kitesurfing gear matching his, prompting the Italian Consulate and Libyan officials to begin DNA testing to confirm the identity. Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani is in contact with Piepoli’s family as investigations proceed toward possible repatriation.

Neighbours in Ormesby St Margaret successfully opposed Owen Chandler Harrod’s attempt to retain a sauna, decking and fencing installed without permission at his Airbnb property, citing repeated disturbances including alleged public sexual activity, noise and litter. Great Yarmouth Borough Council refused retrospective planning permission, and the Planning Inspectorate dismissed Harrod’s appeal after no one was present during a site visit. Harrod maintains he has had no issues with neighbours, but he may now be required to remove the unauthorised structures.

Donald Trump confirmed he called FIFA president Gianni Infantino before the decision to rescind Folarin Balogun’s red card, admitting he initially did not know what a red card was. The intervention drew praise from Republican figures, including Ted Cruz, but widespread condemnation from the global football community. Wayne Rooney and UEFA criticised FIFA’s move as unjustifiable and damaging to the game’s integrity, warning of dangerous precedent and loss of credibility.

A couple allegedly left El Puerto at The Old Custom House in Penarth without paying a £115 bill after dining on a set menu, Dover sole, calamari and multiple soft drinks. The restaurant released the receipt and CCTV details, with owner Tanny Martinez highlighting the broader strain such incidents place on the hospitality sector. Staff attempted to intervene but the pair had already driven off. The case has been reported to South Wales Police, who are appealing for information.

Kate Middleton completed the National Three Peaks Challenge to raise money for the Royal Marsden Cancer Charity, sharing emotional photos of her reunion with family after scaling the highest peaks in Scotland, England and Wales within 24 hours. She reflected on her cancer journey, emphasizing the need for holistic care for patients and expressing gratitude for public support. Family members and Royal Marsden leaders praised her efforts, noting the impact the fundraiser will have on cancer treatment and support services.

Authorities confirmed the death of environmental activist and journalist Alex Serna after his tortured remains were found in a drum on a roadside in Guerrero. Serna had recently accused a foreign fruit company of illegal water extraction and had received death threats before his disappearance. Local outrage has grown, with human rights officials demanding an investigation and activists planning demonstrations calling attention to rising kidnappings of independent communicators in the region.

A couple from Hull seeking NHS-funded IVF have been rejected more than three times due to the woman’s low BMI, despite dietician evaluations and clinical letters stating she is healthy. Courtney Reen and Josh Grant, who have been trying to conceive for seven years, say the process has been emotionally devastating and have launched a GoFundMe to pursue private treatment. NHS officials state that BMI requirements follow national guidelines due to the impact of weight on fertility treatment safety and outcomes.

Prince Harry reversed plans to bring Meghan, Archie and Lilibet to London, citing unresolved security concerns after the Home Office rejected his appeal for funded protection. King Charles had offered a royal residence to facilitate the visit but was reportedly left uninformed of Harry’s change of plans. Royal sources expressed frustration over delayed confirmations, while expert commentary described Harry as acting entitled. The family may still join him later in Birmingham for Invictus-related events, though uncertainty remains over any reunion between the King and his grandchildren. Discussions over security for the latter part of Harry’s trip continue without a final decision.

Dozens of women, including nurse Nicola McKay, attribute the development of meningioma brain tumours to long‑term use of the contraceptive injection Depo‑Provera. Scottish law firm Thompsons Solicitors is investigating more than 150 related cases, following research suggesting increased tumour risk. Women have shared their experiences with Scottish parliamentarians, while Pfizer and the UK’s medicines regulator state the drug continues to be monitored and maintains an established safety profile.

Holidaymakers returning to Gatwick Airport discovered their cars missing after using fraudulent meet‑and‑greet parking services advertised through comparison sites. Vehicles were found abandoned in junkyards, hotel car parks or the airport’s own short‑stay facility, often dirty, damaged or with items stolen. Victims reported long waits, futile searches and a lack of assistance from police and the airport. Officials at London Gatwick acknowledged the presence of rogue operators and advised passengers to use official or thoroughly vetted parking services.

A British TikTok influencer, Brooke George, faces a premeditated murder charge in Dubai for fatally stabbing William Treeby, a case her family says involved domestic abuse and self‑defence. Unanswered questions include the whereabouts of key witnesses, the role of a mystery driver, the couple’s relationship history, Treeby’s criminal background, and whether UK authorities will pursue their own investigation. Campaigners urge Kent Police and British officials to ensure all evidence is examined as George could face the death penalty if convicted.

A 14-year-old boy from Cheshire required multiple surgeries after contracting necrotising fasciitis through a leg wound sustained while jumping into a lake during a heatwave. Doctors removed approximately 15cm of infected flesh and muscle to stop the spread of the bacteria. His mother credited a nearby fisherman for saving his leg by providing first aid and praised hospital staff for their rapid intervention. The family is raising awareness about water safety as the teen recovers, while the Mirror’s Save Lives For Sam campaign calls for nationwide safety measures including compulsory lessons, improved equipment at high-risk waterways, and a dedicated Minister for Water Safety.

A 28-year-old student, Irving Mauricio, was killed in a crocodile attack while taking photos on Marina Vallarta Beach in Puerto Vallarta, prompting a major overnight search before his body was recovered the next morning. Witnesses described the attack as violent and overwhelming, while his mother paid an emotional tribute expressing grief and devotion to her son. The incident was observed by an American couple who reported feeling helpless as the large crocodile repeatedly dragged him underwater.

Financial disclosures show Donald Trump earned at least $2.2 billion in 2025, driven largely by more than $1.4 billion from his family’s cryptocurrency ventures, including significant revenue from the $TRUMP meme coin and World Liberty Financial. His resorts and golf clubs also reported increased income. The White House rejected accusations of conflicts of interest, insisting all actions serve the public. Analysts highlighted the contrast with previous presidents who divested assets to avoid similar concerns.

Reports clarifying that Anna Ermolaeva, wife of Ukrainian businessman Vadym Yermolaiev, was not injured in a Monaco bombing that critically wounded her husband and two others. Authorities believe the victims were specifically targeted, and French investigators are conducting a manhunt after CCTV captured a suspect fleeing toward Beausoleil. The blast, caused by a bag packed with explosives, is being treated as attempted murder rather than terrorism, with the motive still unknown.

Drug crime has risen 18 percent across England and Wales, with Liverpool recording the highest number and rate of offences. Major cities including Manchester, Birmingham and Leeds also saw significant increases, much of it linked to organised criminal gangs and resulting violence. Police forces attribute the rise partly to proactive enforcement, with Merseyside Police reporting expanded operations and increased arrests. National efforts such as the Clear Hold Build framework and county lines crackdowns have led to more than 1,200 arrests and substantial sentences, as authorities work to disrupt supply chains and reduce related violence.

Scientists warn that the cat‑carried parasite toxoplasma gondii may threaten global eye health, with new research highlighting its role as a leading cause of retinal infection and vision loss. Researchers urge the World Health Organisation to designate toxoplasmosis as a neglected tropical disease to boost prevention and treatment efforts. The study notes that while many infections are asymptomatic, the parasite can later trigger severe ocular complications. Improved food safety, clean water, sanitation and access to antenatal care are recommended to limit transmission.

A 31-year-old woman hiking near Orlando died after an alligator attacked her while she cooled off in the shallow waters of the Econlockhatchee River. The animal tore off one arm and severely injured the other as her boyfriend attempted to free her and called emergency services. Wildlife officials reported that two large alligators near the scene were captured for DNA testing to identify the attacker. Authorities are notifying the victim’s family, and the incident is one of several recent alligator attacks in central Florida during the post-mating territorial period.