Lisa O'Brien

Cannock Chase District Council’s cabinet has unanimously reversed plans to demolish the Prince of Wales Theatre, approving its retention and proposed multi-million-pound refurbishment. The decision, backed by the Reform UK-led administration after a community campaign, remains subject to design work, operator procurement and approval of a full business case. Around £14 million in government regeneration funding remains available, while plans also include improvements to the adjacent Beecroft Road car park, steps and underpass access.

A bus collided with a white Peugeot on Longford Road in Cannock before crashing into the Shop'N Go store. Staffordshire Police confirmed that nobody was injured, while fire and ambulance services attended and crews made the car safe. Chaserider Buses has launched a full investigation, and the damaged shop required debris cleanup.

A bus crashed into the Shop'N Go store on Longford Road in Cannock after a collision believed to have involved a bus and a car. Police, fire and ambulance crews attended, while the area was cordoned off. Shop owner Srivani Davouloury said the impact damaged the shop front and stock, but no more serious consequences were reported; cleanup efforts were under way.

The Dentist at Stafford has opened at 38 Greengate Street in Stafford town centre, with appointments available from 20 August 2026. The private practice is accepting new patients for check-ups, hygiene appointments and other dental care, though it does not provide NHS dentistry. It is offering new patients an examination including X-rays for £30.

Andrew Stephen Gillett, 31, of no fixed address, has been charged with arson after a fire involving a skip and several bins on Eastgate Street in Stafford on 17 August. He appeared at North Staffordshire Justice Centre and was remanded in custody pending a hearing at Stafford Crown Court.

A man in his 50s was found seriously injured on Navigation Street in Birmingham after an assault shortly before 6:40 a.m. on 15 August. He remains in serious condition in hospital. West Midlands Police arrested a 46-year-old man on suspicion of attempted murder, and he remains in custody while enquiries continue. Police are appealing for information.

A 34-year-old man of no fixed address was arrested in Stafford after officers stopped and searched him near the town centre and Victoria Park on 15 August. Police seized bolt cutters and monkey dust, a Class B controlled drug. He was arrested on suspicion of going equipped for theft and drug possession, then released on conditional bail while enquiries continue.

Mark Holden, 44, from Lancashire, has been charged with going equipped for theft and failing to provide a sample for a drugs test after West Midlands Police responded to reports of suspicious activity near vehicles on Hagley Road in Bearwood, Sandwell. He is due to appear at Dudley Magistrates Court on 1 October. Another man arrested at the scene was released with no further action.

Nine fire engines remained at a large grass fire on Hednesford Hills after Staffordshire Fire & Rescue Service was called to land off Rawnsley Road at 1pm on 16 August. Crews were dampening down the blaze, while Rawnsley Road was closed and people were advised to avoid the area.

Airspace FTS pilots captured aerial footage of wildfires spreading through residential areas of Norton, Stourbridge, then aborted their training flight and sent the images to emergency services. The blaze covered more than 500 acres, destroyed 19 homes and damaged 18 others. West Midlands Fire Service declared a major incident but later said the fire was under control, while a return-home plan was established for affected residents.

A field fire in the Sandbourne Wood area of Bewdley prompted emergency services to warn residents to keep windows and doors closed and avoid the area. The fire was contained and brought under control by crews from across Wyre Forest and surrounding areas, with three crews remaining to dampen down the site. No properties were affected, while police assisted with road closures and advised motorists to seek alternative routes.

Police cordoned off part of the Corn Exchange pub car park and nearby Deeley Street in Brierley Hill after disorder was reported on Amblecote Road. A man was taken to hospital with a gunshot wound to the leg; his injuries were not considered life-threatening. Two men were arrested, and West Midlands Police appealed for information as the investigation continued.

A fire at the former Brandhall golf course in Oldbury left large areas scorched and blackened, prompted the evacuation of nearly 100 homes, and occurred alongside a blaze that destroyed two nearby houses. No casualties were reported. Fire crews remained at the scene, while Sandwell Council, council staff, local residents and Our Lady & St Hubert’s RC Church provided support to those affected.

Foley Road West in Streetly was closed on the afternoon of 15 August 2026 following a fire of unknown nature. National Express West Midlands diverted services 77 and 77A via Beacon Hill, Erdington Road, Little Hardwick Road and Chester Road in both directions.

Online fundraisers have raised thousands of pounds for families affected by a major fire in Stourbridge that destroyed 19 homes, damaged 18 more and forced many residents to evacuate. Appeals include more than £9,800 raised by The Fine Collective CIC, over £8,400 for Richard and Rose Vinten and their children, more than £9,000 for Gina Addis’s family after two homes were destroyed, and over £500 through Kate Hopkinson’s appeal. The funds are intended to help victims replace essential belongings, secure housing and recover from the disaster.

Two men were arrested in Bearwood, Sandwell, after police responded to reports of suspicious activity near vehicles at about 3am. Officers detained both men following a foot chase and recovered a bag containing screwdrivers, gloves, mole grips and a hydraulic jack. A 44-year-old man remains in custody on suspicion of going equipped for theft, while a 40-year-old man was taken to hospital for assessment before questioning.

A man was taken to hospital after a car collided with his scooter on Old Meeting Street in West Bromwich. His injuries are not believed to be life-threatening or life-changing. The car and driver left the scene, and West Midlands Police are appealing for information to help identify them.

Dudley Council has launched daily online briefings for residents displaced or otherwise affected by the Stourbridge fire. The sessions, held at 2pm, will provide updates on recovery efforts, road access and access to properties, while allowing affected residents or their representatives to ask questions. An in-person livestream is available at Stourbridge Town Hall for people without internet access. The fire destroyed 19 homes, damaged 18 others and led to evacuations across an area of about 500 acres; its cause remains unknown.

Residents living on Norton Road in Stourbridge have been allowed to return home after a major wildfire destroyed 19 properties and damaged 18 others across roughly 500 acres. Vehicle access remains limited, while West Midlands Fire Service, West Midlands Police and Dudley Borough Council continue firefighting, security and support operations. Other evacuated residents will return through a phased process once areas are confirmed safe. The fire's cause remains unknown, and a national alert has warned people across England and Wales not to do anything that could spark a wildfire.

Ten recommended walking destinations across the West Midlands are described, including country parks, woodlands, heathland and hill landscapes. The guide highlights routes, scenery, wildlife, accessibility, parking, cafés, family facilities and outdoor activities at locations such as Sandwell Valley, Kinver Edge, Sutton Park, the Clent Hills and Baggeridge Country Park.

Fourteen fire engines remain at the scene of a major fire near a golf course in Stourbridge, where crews are extinguishing hotspots and monitoring areas vulnerable to reignition. The blaze spread across large areas of land, damaged or destroyed homes and led to evacuations. West Midlands Fire Service said conditions had improved but urged people to stay away while police maintained cordons. It also issued fire-prevention advice during the dry spell, including avoiding fireworks, bonfires, disposable barbecues and unsafe cigarette disposal.

Drone images reveal extensive damage from a major fire that spread near Stourbridge Golf Course, affecting homes and forcing evacuations. West Midlands Fire Service crews are tackling hotspots across several locations, while exclusion zones remain around structurally unsafe buildings, roads and rail services face disruption, and Cadent has isolated parts of the affected area.

A motorcyclist died at the scene after a collision involving a car and a motorbike on Green Lane in Cannock. West Midlands Ambulance Service sent multiple emergency crews, including a trauma doctor, critical care paramedic and the Midlands Air Ambulance, but advanced life support was unsuccessful.

Eight fire crews responded to a grassland fire on Clayhanger Common near Lindon Road in Brownhills. Some residents were evacuated and nearby roads were closed while firefighters contained the blaze. Police later confirmed that residents could safely return home.

Four West Midlands Fire Service crews responded to a large grassland fire on Sheepwash Lane in Tipton at about 6:20 p.m. on August 11, 2026. Residents were advised to avoid the area while firefighters dealt with the incident.

A significant grassland fire broke out near Lindon Road in Brownhills, Walsall, prompting the deployment of eight West Midlands Fire Service crews. Bridge Street, Clayhanger Lane, Lindon Road and nearby roads were closed, bus services were diverted, and residents were urged to avoid the area while the incident continued.

The Dog & Doublet pub in North Street, Wolverhampton, is scheduled to reopen on Friday after work behind the scenes. Its owners announced the date on social media and promised drinks, live entertainment and further updates as the venue returns.

Costa Coffee has opened a new shop on Stourport High Street in the West Midlands. The company described the location as a warm, welcoming space for the local community, while customers praised the refurbishment, cleanliness, atmosphere and staff, saying the previously vacant building had been brought back to life.

An 11-year-old boy from Cannock was arrested on suspicion of attempted arson with intent to endanger life after a series of fires in the Cannock, Rugeley and Hednesford areas. He is being questioned in custody. Two other boys, aged 12 and 13, were previously arrested and released on bail with conditions. Police said some fires were deliberately started and urged anyone with information to contact them or Crimestoppers.

Mikey Teas cafe at Burntwood Town Shopping Centre in Staffordshire is closing after the owners decided to cease trading. In a social media announcement, the owners described the decision as difficult and thanked customers for their support, friendships and memories. Customers responded with sadness and praised the cafe’s bacon and egg sandwiches, pork and stuffing baps, toast and friendly staff.

Police attended a collision in which a car crashed into a post on Rose Hill in Cannock, Staffordshire, shortly before 5pm on 6 August. No injuries were reported; officers notified the local authority and helped recover the vehicle.

Wolverhampton Council is putting four vacant family homes up for auction through Bond Wolfe, with guide prices ranging from £99,000 to £160,000. The three-bedroom properties, located across Wolverhampton, require modernisation but include features such as gardens, gas central heating and double glazing. The livestreamed auction will begin on 10 September, with proxy, telephone and internet bidding available.

Six crews from West Midlands Fire Service attended a building fire on Walsall Road in Stone Cross, West Bromwich, after firefighters had earlier dealt with a fencing blaze at the location. Residents and the public were advised to avoid the area, while smoke was reportedly seen coming from the top of a block of flats.

Specialists from Explosive Ordnance Disposal carried out a controlled explosion on a suspected unexploded World War II bomb at a quarry near Barton-under-Needwood. Staffordshire Police reduced the evacuation cordon from 900 metres to 200 metres, with full removal expected later that evening, allowing residents to return and the A38 and other roads to reopen.

Firefighters responded to a blaze involving fencing near a bus stop on Walsall Road in Stone Cross, West Bromwich, close to the Stone Cross Bar & Grill and Holy Cross Catholic Church. Smoke and flames were captured in social-media video, while emergency services warned of delays and bus diversions in the area.

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 a “Random” tattoo on his head. Members of the public who see him are urged to call 999 and provide the cited crime number.

Fifteen fire engines were dispatched to a blaze off Chase Road near Coppice Hill and Brocton on Cannock Chase after smoke was reported at about 2:30pm on 5 August. Staffordshire Fire & Rescue Service deployed multiple firefighting resources to contain the fire, while Staffordshire Police established a cordon and helped make the area safe. Residents and visitors were urged to avoid the area and keep windows and doors closed.

Multiple fire crews responded to a large fire on Cannock Chase after Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service received numerous calls. Crews were working to contain the blaze, while smoke was reportedly visible from areas including Yoxall and roads in the vicinity were affected.

Staffordshire firefighters tackled about 600 outdoor fires in July 2026, averaging 20 incidents a day and roughly double the number recorded in July 2025. Staffordshire Fire & Rescue Service operations head Martin Weaver described the figures as shocking and warned of increased demand following several serious fires that damaged heathland and killed protected wildlife. Recent incidents occurred near Pattingham, Brocton, Codsall, Hednesford Hills, Enville and Wombourne, with some fires suspected to have been deliberate. The service urged residents to extinguish cigarettes fully, avoid leaving waste outdoors and not use barbecues in green spaces.

Four crews from West Midlands Fire Service attended a fire on John Street in Willenhall on the evening of August 4, 2026. The service advised people to avoid the area, while further information was being sought.

Popeyes at Merry Hill Retail Park in Brierley Hill has applied to Dudley Council for permission to serve food and refreshments on and off the premises daily from 11pm to 5am. The application was submitted by PLK Chicken UK Limited, and written representations from responsible authorities or interested parties must be made by 17 August 2026.

The derelict former Black Cock pub on Green Lane in Walsall Wood was demolished after a major fire gutted the building on July 29. Four fire engines and a hydraulic aerial platform attended, while firefighters extinguished the blaze and nearby roads were closed. The building had been vacant for around six years and had previously been earmarked for a 13-home development.

Plans for Shannon's Irish Bar to open in part of the Zanzibar and Aura building on Newport Road, Stafford, have been abandoned because the premises' ongoing running costs were deemed financially unsustainable. Although about 70% of the refurbishment was complete and signage and furniture had been prepared, the team is now seeking a similar or larger Stafford venue with more realistic costs and says it remains committed to opening.

A year-long, county council-funded 151 bus service linking Stone and Rugeley in Staffordshire will begin on September 1, 2026. The Monday-to-Saturday service will run hourly, with nine journeys in each direction, stopping at villages and communities along the A51 corridor. Staffordshire County Council will monitor passenger numbers during the trial, and the route’s future will depend on demand. Local councillors welcomed the service, noting that the corridor has lacked regular bus provision for several years and includes growing communities and industrial developments.

A new Lidl store is taking shape on the former F A Gill meat wholesaler site beside Birmingham New Road and Parkfield Road in Wolverhampton. The multi-million-pound development is expected to create up to 40 jobs and will include an in-store bakery, customer facilities, a Middle of Lidl aisle, rapid electric vehicle charging points, bicycle parking, and accessible and parent-and-child spaces.

A suspected sinkhole has appeared on the pavement of Stoney Lane in Kidderminster and was reported by resident Nikki Moore. Worcestershire County Council said a highways inspector had assessed the site and that repairs were scheduled within seven days. The incident follows another sinkhole on Sutton Road in July, where the area was cordoned off for repairs.

Construction has begun on Aldi’s first supermarket in Stourport, on the former Minerva Point site on Worcester Road. Demolition began earlier in 2026 after plans submitted in 2022 were approved by councillors in 2025. The store is expected to create up to 40 jobs.

National Express West Midlands diverted its 936 bus service in both directions on 3 August 2026 because of an incident on Barr Beacon Road in Aldridge, Walsall. Buses were routed via Aldridge Road, Queslett Road and Collingwood Drive.

A deliberately set grass fire at Pelsall North Common near Walsall left a large area scorched, with six fire crews managing multiple fire seats and hotspots. West Midlands Fire Service said crews could remain at the scene for some time and warned that deliberate fires threaten wildlife, vegetation, nearby communities and emergency response capacity. The blaze occurred amid a series of fires in regional parklands and open spaces while the West Midlands was officially under drought conditions.

Retired music teacher Keith Allen, 82, was sentenced to eight-and-a-half years in prison at Birmingham Crown Court after being convicted of raping a 16-year-old girl in the 1990s. He had groomed her from age 15 while giving her clarinet lessons at his home in Harborne, with the abuse escalating from sexual touching to intercourse. The victim reported the abuse in 2023, prompting an investigation by West Midlands Police.

Wyre Forest District Council has selected Worcestershire-based Little Al's Kitchen as its preferred operator for a new café at the Pavilion in the Park at Brinton Park, Kidderminster. The council said the business’s community focus, locally sourced produce and café experience made it a strong fit. Contractual and legal arrangements are now being finalised, with further announcements on the opening expected later.

Sandwell Police are appealing for information to locate 14-year-old Harper-Olivia from Rowley, who was last seen at 12:15 p.m. on July 30. Anyone who sees her is asked to call 999 and quote log number 5773-300726.

A large grassland fire severely damaged Portway Hill nature reserve in Oldbury, part of the Rowley Hills, prompting Birmingham & Black Country Wildlife Trust to warn that restoring the site could take many years. The trust thanked West Midlands Fire Service for sending six engines and urged the public to prevent wildfires by avoiding outdoor fires and barbecues, properly extinguishing cigarettes, taking litter home and calling 999 if smoke or flames are seen. The reserve supports rare wildflowers, Marbled White butterflies and internationally important geology; other trust-managed sites have also recently been affected by wildfire.

West Midlands Fire Service sent a response vehicle to a car fire on Tower Road in Oldbury, near a larger grassland fire at Sandwell nature reserve on July 29. The car fire was extinguished by 4:38 p.m., but authorities had not established whether the two incidents were connected. The grassland fire was among numerous regional incidents that generated nearly 800 calls to the fire service’s control team.

Police have released CCTV imagery of a man they want to identify in connection with a Willenhall fraud investigation. Officers believe counterfeit cash was used in April to buy a phone advertised for sale online and are asking anyone with information to contact Walsall Police via Live Chat or 101, quoting crime reference 20/218212/26.

Police are appealing for help to locate Nathaniel, a 33-year-old man who went missing from Wolverhampton. He was last seen wearing Nike grey joggers, a black hooded top and black trainers. Anyone who sees him is asked to call 999 and quote reference 663-30/07/26.

Thirty firefighters and six engines from West Midlands Fire Service are tackling a large grass fire at Portway Hill nature reserve in Oldbury, part of the Rowley Hills. The A4123 Wolverhampton Road northbound has been closed near the blaze, and bus services diverted. The fire is one of several grass fires reported across the region.

Eight fire crews, specialist appliances and a water carrier attended a wildfire on land off Beggars Bush Lane in Wombourne, south Staffordshire, after being called at 4pm on 29 July. Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service said the operation was supported by West Midlands Fire Service.

Fire crews from Staffordshire and the West Midlands responded to a large grass fire near Himley Hall and Himley Lane in Wombourne on 29 July. Eight pumps and specialist appliances attended, while drought conditions across the West Midlands and much of England were cited as increasing the risk of wildfires.

Leo Robert Chandler and Chloe Samantha Claire Dyke, of Erdington, Birmingham, admitted three Animal Welfare Act offences after an RSPCA investigation into the neglect of their dogs and puppies. The animals were found underweight, suffering from untreated flea and skin conditions, and living in filthy, hazardous conditions without adequate food or water. Birmingham Magistrates' Court banned both defendants from keeping animals for 15 years and imposed community orders, unpaid work, a fine, costs and surcharges. The dogs were transferred to RSPCA care for recovery and rehoming.

Off-duty West Midlands Police sergeant Mitchell Siviter found 67-year-old Bob Cox collapsed and not breathing at a gym in Brierley Hill on July 7. Siviter began CPR, obtained a defibrillator and coordinated with an off-duty paramedic and gym staff until paramedics arrived. Cox survived, was discharged from hospital and is recovering at home. Community response manager Tim Cronin emphasized that immediate CPR and defibrillator use are crucial after cardiac arrest.

A man was seriously injured in a stabbing on Dimbles Lane in Lichfield after Staffordshire Police responded to a disturbance at about 12:30 a.m. on July 24. He remains in serious but stable condition, no arrests have been made, and a police cordon was established. Residents described shock and concern in the normally quiet area. Police are seeking CCTV, doorbell and dashcam footage from potential witnesses.

A lineside fire between Wolverhampton and Shrewsbury blocked the railway line on the evening of July 24, causing travel disruption. West Midlands Railway said affected tickets would be accepted on local Arriva buses and selected London Northwestern Railway, Avanti West Coast and Transport for Wales services, while road transport was being arranged.

Five fire crews extinguished a blaze that scorched a large grassland area at Netherton Park, prompting warnings for the public to avoid nearby roads. Video and photos show the fire fully out as crews from West Midlands Fire Service completed their response.

Five fire crews were deployed to Netherton Park in the West Midlands after multiple fires broke out, prompting warnings for the public to avoid the area. Residents reported strong smoke and unpleasant smells, with crews positioned around Spring Road and Lynbrook Close as they tackled the blaze.

Dudley Pride features seven hours of entertainment, headlined by singer Tia Kofi, with performances, market stalls, family activities and street entertainment. The free event runs from 1pm to 8pm in Stone Street Square, supported by Dudley Council, which is providing complimentary parking and announcing several road closures throughout the day.

Former Walsall mayor Angela Underhill has died after nearly three decades of public service. Elected in 1996 and serving two wards, she remained an active councillor until 2024. Her 2015–2016 mayoral year focused on supporting charities including MS Therapy Centre, Multiple Sclerosis Research, FastAid, West Midlands Amputee Support Group and CLIC Sargent. Current mayor Alan Fleming praised her dedication, kindness and long-standing commitment to the community while offering condolences on behalf of Walsall Council.

A care worker is on trial at Wolverhampton Crown Court accused of manslaughter and wilful neglect after a vulnerable resident with learning difficulties choked on pancakes. Prosecutors outlined previous choking incidents and a strict support plan, while the defendant stated he had briefly turned away before the man crammed food into his mouth. He described attempting lifesaving measures and denied any mistreatment. The trial is ongoing.

A nurse at Walsall Manor Hospital arranged a large television so nine‑year‑old patient Jude Wigley, who has a rare life‑limiting condition, could watch England’s World Cup quarter‑final with his family. His mother praised staff for their compassionate care as he received treatment for a suspected chest infection. Donations through the hospital charity enabled the setup, and staff emphasised their commitment to helping young patients enjoy celebratory moments.

West Midlands Safari Park announced the death of Hujan, a 19-year-old Sumatran tiger who had lived at the attraction since 2011. Staff described her as a much-loved member of the park, noting that she died from age-related health issues surrounded by her caretakers. The park highlighted her role in inspiring visitors and contributing to awareness of her critically endangered species.

Twycross Zoo in Warwickshire has introduced a new Capybara Breakfast Tour following strong demand for its existing capybara experience. The morning tour offers early access to the zoo, behind-the-scenes interaction with rangers, feeding opportunities, and visits to several South American species, along with refreshments at Costa Coffee. The zoo states the added experience supports its conservation efforts and accommodates growing visitor interest.

The Taste of Thailand Music and Food Festival will take place at West Park in Wolverhampton over the weekend, offering Thai cuisine, drinks, live music, dance performances and Muay Thai demonstrations. The event runs from 10am to 7pm on both days, with tickets priced at £8 and free entry for under-15s.

Additional funding has enabled Dudley Council to double its pop-up tip provision, offering four sessions each month alternating between the Lister Road and Northway depots. New dates run from July through December, with further details on Christmas and New Year collections expected later. Residents are encouraged to book in advance and cancel unused slots to meet high demand, with the expansion intended to improve convenience and maintain cleaner communities.

Record Culture, an independent vinyl shop in Stourbridge, will close its physical store by the end of September as owner Lee Newman cites business and personal reasons for ending its permanent presence. The business will continue through pop‑ups, fairs, community selling and online operations. Newman emphasized the need to adapt to shifting retail habits and reaffirmed plans to maintain strong ties to the local music community, prompting supportive reactions from customers.

The former Goldthorn Hotel site in Wolverhampton has been secured by Lidl, clearing delays that previously halted construction of a new supermarket. Updated plans require a fresh planning application and include the chain’s modern store design, an expanded car park, electric charging bays and bicycle parking. Public consultation indicated strong support, and the project is expected to create up to 40 jobs.

Police arrested two men on suspicion of attempted murder after a man in his 40s was stabbed at a home on Clancey Way in Cradley Heath. The victim was taken to hospital with potentially serious injuries. Officers believe the individuals involved know each other and are treating the incident as isolated, while maintaining a presence in the area and seeking information from the public.

A man sustained multiple serious injuries after being struck by a car in Walsall. Emergency crews, including an off-duty paramedic, responded to the incident at the junction of Green Lane and Blue Lane West shortly after midnight. The victim received on‑scene treatment before being transported under emergency conditions to Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Birmingham. No other injuries were reported.

Police released images of a man they wish to identify after he masturbated beside two women on a tram travelling toward Dartmouth Street in West Bromwich. The conductor removed the man from the tram, and investigators are appealing for information, asking the public to contact British Transport Police or Crimestoppers with any leads.

A van and an e‑bike collided on Park Lane in Kidderminster, injuring a 14‑year‑old rider who was taken to hospital. Police arrested a 21‑year‑old man on suspicion of dangerous driving and appealed for witnesses or footage to assist the investigation.

A signal failure halted West Midlands Metro services between Bull Street and Edgbaston Village, leaving trams operating only between Wolverhampton and Bull Street and prompting warnings of commuter disruption.

A man in his 20s, locally named as Brad, died from a chest wound in a car park on Clarence Street in Wolverhampton early Sunday. Police arrested a 32-year-old man on suspicion of murder and a 66-year-old man and 59-year-old woman on suspicion of assisting an offender. Forensic work, CCTV review and door-to-door inquiries continue. Floral tributes and condolence messages have been placed at the scene as police urge anyone with information to come forward.

A toddler who began choking on a sweet in Wolverhampton was saved by PCSO Kenny Lewis, who used first aid to clear her airway during a routine patrol. The child’s family expressed deep relief and gratitude, and Lewis, a long-serving officer in Bilston, was credited for his quick response that prevented a potential tragedy.

Police stopped a vehicle in Tipton after tracking it from Lower Gornal, recovering an axe, two knives, prescription medication and suspected class A drugs. Two men aged 37 and 38 were arrested on suspicion of possessing offensive weapons and drugs, with the elder also detained for disqualified and dangerous driving. One suspect remains in custody, while the other has been released on bail as investigations continue.

Police are seeking a man captured on CCTV after another man suffered non‑life‑threatening stab wounds on Coleshill Road in Hodge Hill. Officers have reviewed CCTV and are appealing for information, asking the public to contact them via Live Chat or by calling 101 quoting the incident reference.

Eight fire crews responded to a fire on Cross Street in Wolverhampton early Monday morning, with authorities urging the public to avoid the area. West Midlands Fire Service reported the incident shortly after 5 a.m., confirming their presence and ongoing response efforts.

A Birmingham man, John Loughrey, was sentenced to six months in prison after attempting to steal a vehicle and items from a Nissan Qashqai on Edmund Street. Police recovered the stolen purse and sunglasses along with theft equipment and later found a large cache of suspected stolen sunglasses at his home. West Midlands Police are seeking to identify additional victims and are asking anyone who recognises the recovered sunglasses to contact them.

Police are seeking to identify a man after an elderly woman in Birmingham was targeted in a courier fraud in which her bank cards were later used in city centre shops. Officers have begun enquiries and are appealing for information from the public, asking anyone with details to contact the force and quote the relevant case number.

Police closed The Hair Shop in Wolverhampton city centre after reports of illegal vape sales, drug-related activity and risks to young people. A three‑month closure order was granted by Walsall magistrates following a joint investigation by West Midlands Police, Trading Standards and local authority children’s services. Officers previously discovered a concealed storeroom containing suspected cannabis, leading to two arrests, with inquiries ongoing. Authorities said the action aims to reduce crime and protect vulnerable young people.

A four-bedroom semi-detached home on Streetsbrook Road in Solihull has been listed for Bond Wolfe’s 9 July auction with a guide price of £395,000. The vacant freehold property requires no modernisation and features multiple reception rooms, a kitchen, utility spaces, four bedrooms and outdoor amenities including a wide driveway, garages and a rear garden. It is the second Solihull Council-owned house on the same street entered into the auction at the same price. The location offers proximity to Solihull town centre, schools, major motorways and the local train station. The auction will be livestreamed with remote bidding options available.

A fire in the cardboard storage area of Dudley Council’s Blowers Green Waste Depot prompted the evacuation of the premises late Friday night. Five fire crews from West Midlands Fire Service responded and brought the incident under control, with no injuries reported. The council is cooperating with fire and police investigations and has maintained scheduled waste and recycling services while assessing wider operational impacts.

Four individuals involved in operating the Ace drug line in the West Midlands were sentenced at Birmingham Crown Court after a County Lines Taskforce investigation uncovered the distribution of heroin and crack cocaine from Birmingham into Stourbridge. Large quantities of drugs, cash and phones linked to dealing were seized following February arrests. Mohammed Butt received eight and a half years, Ishaaq Shazad six and a half years, Mohammed Asim three and a half years, and Samantha Scott a suspended two‑year sentence. Police highlighted the group’s structured roles and the evidence that secured the convictions.

Five fire crews responded to a factory fire on Blowers Green Road in Dudley, prompting warnings for residents to keep doors and windows closed and avoid the area. West Midlands Fire Service also urged the public not to fly drones, citing interference with their operational response and drone use at the scene.

Pubs across the Black Country and Staffordshire are highlighted for their notable beer gardens, ranging from family‑friendly outdoor spaces and refurbished community venues to historic village pubs and popular spots for live music or sports fans. Several sites have undergone significant upgrades, feature extensive drink selections or food menus, and offer a variety of amenities such as playgrounds, covered seating, open‑mic nights and function rooms. The list reflects locations valued for atmosphere, community ties and outdoor appeal during warm weather.

A range of Black Country properties, from a £9,000 flat to a £175,000 five-bedroom house, are set to be auctioned by Bond Wolfe in a livestreamed sale on July 9. The listings include numerous homes needing renovation as well as rental opportunities highlighted by the auctioneer. The event will feature 173 lots with remote bidding options available.

Identical twins Bill and John Bowdler from Birmingham, born in 1944, have spent their entire lives together, sharing homes, jobs, hobbies and even medical procedures. The inseparable pair worked the same careers, retired on the same day and continue to coordinate their daily routines, including matching outfits. Their close bond, active lifestyle and mutual support are credited for their strong health at age 82, highlighted by their nearly simultaneous cataract treatments at the same clinic.

A 22‑year‑old man, Martin Slezak, was charged with the murder of 49‑year‑old Young John Mongan from Walsall following a fatal incident on Church Street in Welshpool. Slezak appeared at Wrexham Magistrates’ Court and was remanded in custody ahead of a preliminary hearing at Caernarfon Crown Court. Emergency crews responded to the early‑morning incident, but the victim died at the scene. Police thanked the public for assistance in the ongoing investigation.

A rare Grevy's zebra named Manilow, born at West Midlands Safari Park in 2024, has been transferred to Chessington World of Adventures Resort to join an EEP breeding programme supporting the endangered species. Staff expressed pride in his development and highlighted the importance of managed breeding efforts, noting that only around 3,000 Grevy's zebras remain in the wild.

Old Swinford Hospital in Stourbridge has appointed Graeme Wright, currently headmaster of Altrincham Grammar School for Boys, as its new headteacher starting September 1. He succeeds Paul Kilbride, who is leaving after 12 years. Governors praised Wright’s vision and alignment with the school’s values, while Wright expressed enthusiasm for leading the state boarding school and joining its community. He brings experience from senior roles in multiple schools and earlier service in the Royal Marines.