Maryam Zakir-Hussain

London bus driver Ricki Reid, known for blowing bubbles from his cab on the 106 route between Finsbury Park and Whitechapel, was asked by Go-Ahead London to stop after reported safety concerns and passenger complaints. Passengers and local residents have expressed disappointment, while Reid says the bubbles brought joy to children and adults, including a terminally ill child. Aldi’s Finsbury Park store appointed him as a volunteer “Ambassador of Joy” and will donate to The Bubble Foundation, which supports children with life-threatening immune deficiencies.

A parliamentary investigation into Nigel Farage’s failure to register a reported £5m gift from a cryptocurrency billionaire has resumed after he won the Clacton by-election. If the investigation recommends a suspension of more than 10 days, Farage could face a second by-election. Polling experts said he would probably retain the seat, though tactical coordination behind former Conservative MP Giles Watling could reduce his majority. Farage did not attend the count, citing police warnings of a credible threat, but Essex Police denied advising candidates to stay away. Labour described the contest as a political distraction from Farage’s financial and personal controversies.

Nigel Farage won the Clacton by-election with more than 22,000 votes after resigning his seat to force the contest, but the Parliamentary Commissioner for Standards has now resumed investigating whether he failed to declare a £5m gift from a crypto-billionaire. Farage says the money was personal and did not require registration. If the investigation recommends a suspension of more than 10 parliamentary sitting days, he could face another by-election. Polling experts believe he would probably win again, although tactical coordination behind former Conservative MP Giles Watling could reduce his majority. Farage also skipped the count, claiming police warned of a credible threat; Essex Police deny advising candidates not to attend. Labour and other major parties criticised the contest as a political stunt and renewed calls for Farage to disclose details of the gift and other controversies.

Wildfires across the West Midlands destroyed 19 homes in Stourbridge, damaged 18 more and displaced a significant number of residents as temperatures reached the UK’s highest level of the year. More than 100 firefighters tackled the main blaze, while several people, including a child and a firefighter, were taken to hospital. Fires also affected Pershore, Stoke-on-Trent and Salford Priors, prompting evacuations, road closures, water-supply warnings and a major-incident response. Authorities urged residents to stay away from affected areas, follow fire-safety advice and prepare to evacuate if necessary.

The Clacton by-election features a record number of candidates competing against Reform UK leader Nigel Farage after he resigned as an MP. Labour, the Conservatives, Liberal Democrats, Greens and Restore Britain are not standing, leaving Farage to face independent, satirical and smaller-party challengers, including Count Binface, Laurence Fox, Piers Corbyn and candidates from the Monster Raving Loony Party. The vote is scheduled for 13 August, with the result expected early the following morning. Farage’s resignation and investigations into undeclared financial support and security funding have prompted criticism from rival politicians.

Iran says the Strait of Hormuz will remain closed until the United States ends the war and blockade, releases frozen Iranian assets, and accepts a regional ceasefire covering Lebanon and Gaza. Donald Trump rejected Iran’s compensation demands and said he would seek compensation from Tehran. Reports also describe a US helicopter firing on a Panama-flagged ship, a deadly Houthi attack in the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, and Pakistani officials signaling that Washington and Tehran may be nearing a deal. The conflict is straining US and Gulf missile stocks needed by Ukraine, while cyberattacks linked potentially to Iran have targeted US water systems and gold prices have begun rising again as market fears shift.

The Clacton by-election triggered by Nigel Farage’s resignation is scheduled for 13 August, with nominations open from 14 to 17 July and voter registration closing on 28 July. Labour, the Conservatives, Liberal Democrats, Greens and Restore Britain say they will not contest the seat, while Farage faces criticism that the election is intended to distract from investigations into his finances and security arrangements. Candidates and prospective candidates include Count Binface, Lawrence Fox, Piers Corbyn, Adham Alkhatip, Rob Pownall, Kai Stephens, Luke Worley, Amelia Randall and Ollie Granger, representing a mixture of satirical, minor-party and independent campaigns.

Donald Trump rejected Iran’s six conditions for reopening the Strait of Hormuz and demanded that Tehran compensate the United States for deaths and damage linked to regional conflicts, including the deaths of 17 sailors killed in the USS Cole attack, which was attributed to al-Qaeda rather than Iran. The rhetorical escalation has reduced hopes for an imminent agreement and pushed oil prices higher. Iran’s demands include compensation for wartime damage, an end to US military activity and sanctions, the release of frozen assets, and permanent cessation of hostilities. Talks involving Oman may give Tehran greater leverage over transit through the waterway, while Trump is reportedly considering abandoning efforts to secure a nuclear deal. Separately, Israel has rejected Trump’s Gaza peace plan unless Hamas is fully disarmed.

The UK has no legally defined maximum working temperature, but employers must provide reasonable working conditions and assess and reduce health and safety risks during extreme heat. With temperatures forecast to reach 36C and heat health alerts issued across much of England, the Climate Change Committee has called for mandatory maximum-temperature rules to better protect workers.

Hunter Biden acknowledged that the full presidential pardon granted by his father, Joe Biden, in December 2024 was not good for America, the Constitution, or his father’s reputation, while arguing that his father had little choice as the only person able to spare him further punishment. The pardon followed Hunter Biden’s conviction on federal gun charges and guilty plea to federal tax charges, despite Joe Biden’s earlier pledge to respect the judicial process. Hunter said the two had not discussed a pardon beforehand. He also spoke emotionally about Joe Biden’s prostate cancer, saying it had metastasized to his bones and describing his father as the center of the family.

Ynyshir Restaurant near Machynlleth, a two-Michelin-starred establishment known for Japanese-inspired raw dishes and a costly 30-course menu, regained a five-star food hygiene rating after previously receiving one star. An initial Ceredigion Council inspection identified significant hazards, including inadequate hand-washing facilities, a dirty floor, broken equipment and weaknesses in food-safety management, and ordered the restaurant to stop serving raw lobster. Chef and owner Gareth Ward defended Ynyshir’s specialized approach to raw ingredients, while the restaurant disputed the inspectors’ understanding of its procedures. A February re-inspection found that all identified issues had been addressed, leading to the revised rating being published by the Food Standards Agency.

A 47-year-old woman was arrested after four men were stabbed on Endell Street in Covent Garden, central London. All four victims were taken to a major trauma centre; two remained hospitalized with injuries not considered life-threatening or life-changing, while two were discharged. Police recovered a pair of scissors and said they believed the incident was isolated and mental health-related. A large cordon was established as officers gathered evidence, and witnesses described a rapid police and emergency-service response.

Four men aged 34, 39, 42 and 52 were stabbed on Endell Street in Covent Garden, central London, at around 12:27pm. All were taken to a major trauma centre; two were discharged and two remained hospitalized with injuries not considered life-threatening or life-changing. A 47-year-old woman was arrested on suspicion of possessing an offensive weapon and assault. Police believe the incident was isolated and may be related to mental health, and recovered a pair of scissors at the scene.

A Scottish couple, Kim Hutchison and Harry Grieve, were frightened when a shirtless man mistakenly entered their Travelodge room in Dundee at around 2am using a key card. They said the man stayed for about a minute before leaving, and that no hotel staff were available when they reported the incident. Travelodge apologized, refunded their stay, provided a £100 voucher, and admitted that updated security procedures had not been followed. The company said it would retrain staff and review room-access security after similar incidents.

Kim Hutchison and Harry Grieve said a shirtless stranger entered their Travelodge room in Dundee at around 2am after staff mistakenly issued him their key card. The man left after a confrontation, and no arrests were made. Travelodge refunded the stay, provided a £100 voucher and apologised, acknowledging that updated room-access procedures were not followed. The incident comes amid wider scrutiny of the chain following other cases of unauthorised room access, including a sexual assault in Maidenhead and a similar incident in Lincoln. Travelodge said it had retrained staff, reviewed its security procedures and introduced changes.

England is experiencing a severe flash drought after repeated heatwaves, with temperatures exceeding 35°C seven times this year and July potentially becoming the driest month on record. The Met Office forecasts a north-south divide, with persistent and locally heavy showers in northern areas, including possible thunderstorms in Scotland and Northern Ireland, while southern England remains mostly dry and sunny. The weekend and early following week are expected to stay largely dry and bright, with rain mainly affecting the far north and northern areas later.

Pubs across Britain are experiencing temporary shortages of Old Speckled Hen and related beers after Estrella Damm acquired the brands from Greene King. Estrella Damm attributed the disruption to transferring the beers into its supply network, compounded by hot weather and the football World Cup, but said the transition was broadly complete and supplies should soon recover. Greene King is using the sale as part of a strategic realignment and plans to focus more on its pub estate, including a proposed £40 million brewery in Bury St Edmunds by summer 2027.

British pubs faced temporary shortages of Old Speckled Hen and related brands after Estrella Damm acquired them from Greene King and moved production into its supply network. Estrella Damm said the beer continued to be brewed and blamed the disruption on the ownership transition, hot weather and demand linked to the football World Cup. The transition was reportedly broadly complete, with supplies expected to return soon. Greene King is shifting its focus toward its pub estate while continuing to produce selected cask and craft beers, including plans for a new £40 million brewery in Bury St Edmunds.

After prolonged heatwaves and record-low rainfall, more than half of England has been declared in drought, affecting up to 28 million people. The Met Office forecasts a shift to cooler, more unsettled conditions from the end of the week, with rain and showers particularly likely in Scotland, Northern Ireland and other northern areas. However, rainfall across much of the UK is expected to be modest, and southern areas may receive little or none, leaving the summer rainfall deficit largely unresolved.

Ukraine’s reported attack on an Iranian commercial vessel in the Caspian Sea has raised fears that the conflicts involving Iran and Russia’s war in Ukraine could converge. Iran says a sailor was killed and another injured, and has threatened that the strike cannot go unanswered, while Ukraine claims the vessel carried drone and missile components bound for Russia. Experts differ on whether the attack was chiefly a message to Donald Trump or part of Ukraine’s broader effort to disrupt Russian military supply networks. Although Iran has missiles capable of reaching parts of Ukraine, analysts say retaliation would offer little strategic benefit and risk expanding its list of adversaries. The incident follows Volodymyr Zelensky’s offer of intelligence on Russian support for Iran and the US decision to license Ukraine to produce Patriot defence systems.

Hopes for a new regional ceasefire weakened after Iran launched missiles at US military targets and Saudi Arabia joined US airstrikes against Iran-backed groups in Iraq. The strikes reportedly killed at least 20 members of Iraq’s Popular Mobilisation Forces and prompted condemnation from Baghdad, Tehran and Iraqi militant groups. Saudi Arabia said it did not seek escalation but would respond to attacks, while launching strikes against Yemen’s Houthis over threats to shipping in the Red Sea. Iran also rejected an Omani proposal for joint control of the Strait of Hormuz. Donald Trump threatened further retaliation, while Benjamin Netanyahu warned that Israel would respond to any Iranian attack.

Ukraine attacked an Iranian vessel in the Caspian Sea, reportedly killing one sailor and injuring another. Tehran summoned Ukraine’s chargé d’affaires and condemned the strike, while Ukrainian officials said the vessel was carrying drone and missile components destined for Russia, a claim Iran rejected. Experts disagree over whether the attack was intended mainly to disrupt Russian military capabilities or to signal Ukraine’s ability to support action against Iran if Washington increases assistance. The incident followed Volodymyr Zelensky’s meeting with Donald Trump, during which the US agreed to license Ukrainian production of Patriot defence systems. Analysts remain doubtful that Iran would benefit strategically from directly retaliating against Ukraine.

A powerful earthquake struck Kumamoto Prefecture on Japan’s Kyushu island, killing at least 13 people and injuring hundreds. The tremor caused building collapses, damaged roads and bridges, disrupted rail and air services, and prompted evacuations and a temporary tsunami warning. Rescuers searched collapsed structures, including an Aeon shopping mall where an explosion killed two women; authorities were investigating whether a gas leak caused the blast. Thousands of military personnel, firefighters and rescue workers joined relief efforts as aftershocks, landslides, extreme heat, power outages and water shortages threatened survivors.

A major earthquake measuring 6.8 according to the U.S. Geological Survey and 7.1 according to Japan’s Meteorological Agency struck Kumamoto Prefecture on Kyushu, killing at least 13 people and injuring hundreds. Rescuers searched collapsed buildings, including an Aeon shopping mall where eight people were pulled from the rubble and two women died after a subsequent explosion of unknown cause. About 300,000 people were ordered to evacuate, while aftershocks, landslides, extreme heat, power and water outages, damaged roads, disrupted rail services and flight cancellations complicated relief efforts. Japan deployed thousands of military personnel, firefighters and rescue workers, with authorities warning residents to remain prepared for further tremors.

Chloe Keys, a 26-year-old woman with severe uterine fibroids and PMOS, said years of heavy bleeding, pain, anaemia and debilitating symptoms left her housebound and forced her to pay privately for surgery. She described a nine-month wait followed by a cancelled consultant appointment and said she felt pressured to take Ryeqo, which can induce a medical menopause, rather than pursue surgery. Her experience is presented alongside polling showing that many women feel their reproductive-health concerns are dismissed, and calls for better workplace education and faster, more personalised NHS care. Manchester University Foundation Trust apologised for the appointment problems and said patients are treated according to clinical priority amid extensive waiting lists.

Meghan Markle shared photographs of her family’s summer activities, including beach outings, travel in Europe, poolside play and time spent with their children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet. The family later traveled to the United Kingdom to join Prince Harry, who was promoting the upcoming Invictus Games. During the visit, the children reunited with King Charles III at Highgrove for the first time in four years.

Meghan Markle shared summer holiday photographs showing Prince Harry, Princess Lilibet, Prince Archie and the couple enjoying time at the beach, in gardens, at dinner and while travelling in Europe. The images include Harry tossing Lilibet into a swimming pool and Archie sitting in an aircraft cockpit. The report also recounts the children’s reunion with King Charles III and Queen Camilla during a UK visit, against the backdrop of Harry’s continuing estrangement from other members of the royal family, while separately noting Prince George’s birthday celebrations shared by Prince William and Catherine.

Keir Starmer made his final appearance at Prime Minister's Questions, receiving emotional tributes from Speaker Lindsay Hoyle, Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch and Labour MPs. Starmer defended his record on the economy, the NHS, child poverty and Britain's international standing, while thanking Badenoch for privately supporting him during difficult personal circumstances. Carolyn Harris and Rachel Reeves became emotional, and Starmer paid tribute to the late former Conservative minister Ann Widdecombe. In a farewell speech, he thanked his political team and family, said his political journey was ending, and promised wholehearted support for Andy Burnham before leaving the Commons to a standing ovation.

Keir Starmer is preparing for his final cabinet meeting and Prime Minister’s Questions before an expected resignation. Andy Burnham is expected to succeed him and has called for a serious review of parliamentary security amid concerns over MPs’ safety following the suspected murder of former MP Ann Widdecombe. Starmer is also highlighting his record, including support for Ukraine and backing the Hillsborough Law.

A third UK heatwave of 2026 is expected to continue through the week, with temperatures reaching around 30–32C in parts of England and Wales and remaining very warm in southern and western areas. The Met Office says there is no clear end to the hot spell, although the focus of the highest temperatures may shift toward the South West. Isolated thunderstorms are possible, while high pressure is expected to maintain generally dry conditions. Authorities warn of increased health risks, wildfires, water-related incidents, high UV and pollen levels, and potential disruption to rail travel and vehicle breakdown services.

A Marks & Spencer employee, Mark Brennan, successfully challenged his dismissal after his wife copied his staff discount details and shared them with family and friends, who used the discount 73 times. Ireland’s Workplace Relations Commission found that dismissing Brennan after 10 years of employment was disproportionate and excessive, particularly as he offered to repay €464.39. Brennan was awarded €2,000 under the Unfair Dismissals Act 1977, reduced from €4,000 because his carelessness contributed to the misuse.

Veteran politician Ann Widdecombe gave a radio interview defending Reform UK leader Nigel Farage and criticizing the House of Commons Standards Committee shortly before police believe she was attacked at her Devon home. She was later found with serious injuries and died, while messages indicate she stopped communicating minutes before the suspected attack. A 28-year-old suspect has been rearrested on suspicion of terrorism, with investigators examining possible political ideology as a motive and links to a property in Rotherham.

A Marks and Spencer employee dismissed after his wife shared his staff discount 73 times won a ruling from Ireland’s Workplace Relations Commission that the sanction was excessive. The adjudicator found that although the worker was careless in allowing access to the discount, dismissal was disproportionate, reducing compensation to €2,000. The case detailed M&S’s strict stance on discount misuse, the employee’s cooperation, and his subsequent employment with a competitor.

Ann Widdecombe defended Nigel Farage in a radio interview shortly before police believe she was killed at her Devon home. The conversation addressed parliamentary investigations into Farage’s undeclared £5m gift from Christopher Harborne, with Widdecombe criticising the standards committee. She stopped responding to messages minutes before the suspected attack. A 28‑year‑old man has been rearrested on terrorism-related charges, with investigators examining possible political motives and links to a property in Rotherham.

The UK is experiencing its third heatwave, with yellow heat-health alerts in place across most regions until 9pm on Friday 17 July. Temperatures are expected to ease slightly, particularly in south-east England, but dry, fine and very warm conditions will continue, with the hottest weather gradually shifting towards south-west England. The Met Office has also confirmed that the previous month was England’s hottest June on record and Wales’s second-warmest.

Temperatures across parts of the UK are expected to exceed 30C as a heatwave continues, with amber and yellow heat health alerts issued for multiple regions. Peak temperatures recently reached 35.5C in Surrey, and while conditions may ease slightly next week, high pressure is likely to maintain warm, dry weather, particularly in the South West. Forecasters note a possible shift of the hottest conditions toward the region and warn of potential thunderstorms. The Met Office also confirms that England experienced its hottest June on record.

Rumors suggest Meghan Markle and their children, Archie and Lilibet, may join Prince Harry in the UK this week after previously canceling their visit over security concerns. Harry arrived in London alone, while Meghan had been scheduled to attend an Invictus Games event with him in Birmingham. The potential family visit would allow King Charles III to see his grandchildren, whom he last met in person during Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee celebrations in 2022.

The UK is experiencing a continuing heatwave after temperatures reached 35.5C in Wisley, Surrey. Amber heat health alerts remain in effect across the Midlands, eastern and southern England, while northern England has yellow alerts. Temperatures could reach 33C in parts of the South and South West this weekend, with Manchester and Leeds also expected to exceed 30C. High pressure is likely to persist next week, bringing continued warmth, a shift in the hottest conditions toward the South West, and a risk of isolated showers or thunderstorms.

The UK is preparing for a potentially record-length heatwave, with temperatures expected to reach 35°C. Amber heat health alerts are in effect across the Midlands, eastern and southern England, while yellow alerts cover northern England. The hot, increasingly humid weather is expected to continue into the weekend, bringing a risk of thunderstorms, possible travel disruption and increased demand for vehicle breakdown services before easing slightly early next week.

Amber heat-health alerts have been issued across central, eastern and southern England as temperatures are expected to peak at 35C, creating one of the UK’s longest heatwaves since 1976. Authorities warn of increased health risks for vulnerable groups and heightened chances of water-related incidents. The Met Office forecasts several days of high temperatures and possible tropical nights, with conditions expected to ease slightly early next week. Travel services anticipate disruption, and drivers are urged to take precautions in the extreme heat.

Major UK parties plan to boycott the Clacton by-election triggered by Nigel Farage’s resignation amid investigations into his finances, leaving the contest largely to smaller or satirical parties. Laurence Fox’s Reclaim Party, the Rejoin EU Party, Count Binface, and the Monster Raving Loony Party have announced they will stand. Government and opposition figures criticised the by-election as a distraction while various candidates outline their intentions to challenge Farage.

The UK is experiencing another heatwave, with temperatures expected to reach 34°C in south-east England. A UK Health Security Agency heat-health alert covers parts of England, while the Met Office advises avoiding direct sunlight during the hottest hours and closing curtains to keep homes cool. Additional recommendations include limiting use of ovens, stoves and dryers, staying hydrated, taking cool showers, wearing loose clothing and considering electrolyte drinks outdoors.

Russian missile and drone strikes on Kyiv killed at least ten people and injured dozens, heavily damaging residential buildings as rescue efforts continued. The attack followed Ukrainian intelligence warnings of an imminent large-scale strike. Moscow claimed it targeted military and energy sites, which Ukrainian officials disputed while reporting extensive civilian damage. Ahead of a NATO summit in Ankara, leaders prepared to reinforce support for Ukraine, while Donald Trump planned meetings with Volodymyr Zelensky and other regional leaders to discuss efforts to halt the conflict. Additional updates included Ukrainian drone strikes on a Russian oil refinery, Kremlin statements on battlefield conditions, and disputes over control of Kostiantynivka and proposed ceasefire arrangements.

Forecasts indicate a heatwave across southern England with temperatures expected to reach 34C later in the week, while northern and western regions face rain and a yellow warning for heavy rainfall in western Scotland. England recorded its hottest June on record, with a provisional peak of 37.7C in Norfolk. Conditions are expected to remain warm or hot for much of the UK through Thursday, with rain lingering mainly in the far northwest.

The UK faces its third heatwave of the year, with temperatures expected to reach up to 34C later in the week, prompting yellow heat health alerts across much of England. Southern and southeastern regions will see the highest temperatures, while Scotland and parts of northern England experience heavy rain due to contrasting weather systems. Water companies in Hampshire, the Isle of Wight and Kent have introduced hosepipe bans amid low river levels following record heat. Forecasts indicate warm, largely dry conditions for most of the UK through Thursday, with persistent rain only in the far northwest.

Meghan Markle and Prince Harry’s children, Archie and Lilibet, will not accompany Harry on his upcoming trip to London after a request for police protection was denied. Harry is challenging the UK Home Office over the reduction of his security arrangements and had reportedly hoped the trip would allow his children to reunite with King Charles III, whom they have not seen in four years.

Iran begins a week of mass funeral ceremonies for former Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, killed in US-Israeli strikes in February, with officials predicting an enormous turnout framed as a show of support for the regime. Security concerns keep new Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei from appearing publicly, while senior military figures resurface as the state prepares large-scale processions. The conflict continues to strain US–Saudi relations, stall US–Iran peace negotiations, and raise the risk of further escalation. Separate concerns grow for a British couple on prolonged hunger strike in Iran’s Evin prison, prompting renewed UN pressure for their release.

Meghan, Archie and Lilibet are not expected to accompany Prince Harry on his upcoming UK trip after a request for police protection for the family was denied. The decision has reduced the prospect of a reunion between King Charles III and his grandchildren, whom he has not seen in several years. Harry is also expected to attend Invictus Games-related engagements and may visit the Spencer family estate, while uncertainty remains over whether he will stay at a royal residence. The development comes amid his continuing legal dispute with the Home Office over UK security arrangements and an impending High Court ruling in his privacy case against the publisher of the Daily Mail.

Iran began a six-day public funeral for Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in Tehran after his death at age 86 in an airstrike. Large crowds gathered at the Grand Mosalla, with ceremonies starting on 4 July and including anti-American chants. The turnout is expected to reinforce Iran’s government as it negotiates with the United States over the Strait of Hormuz and faces concerns about possible Israeli attacks, including threats against Khamenei’s son, Mojtaba.

Temperatures across the UK are forecast to rise, with London expected to reach 31C on Monday as high pressure builds from the Azores. Southern and southeastern regions will see dry, warm conditions, while northern and western areas face rain and showers. The Met Office reports England experienced its hottest June on record, with recent temperatures breaking longstanding highs. Outlooks indicate continued heat in the southeast and variable, wetter weather in northwestern regions.

Temperatures in the UK will rise this weekend as the south and southeast experience a third heatwave of the year, with highs reaching 29C on Sunday and potentially 31C on Monday. Northern and western areas, particularly western Scotland, will face heavy rain due to weather fronts driven by a nearby high-pressure system over the Azores. Forecasts indicate warm, sunny conditions for much of England and Wales, while Scotland and Northern Ireland remain cloudier with persistent rain into early next week.

A primary school in Shrewsbury will show a 9am replay of England’s World Cup match against Mexico to let children watch without staying up for the 1am kickoff. The plan, widely praised by parents online, encourages students to wear team colors and keep the result secret. Headteacher Emily Kynaston says the match will anchor a day of themed learning. The move follows England manager Thomas Tuchel’s call for parents to let children watch the game live as the team prepares for the last‑16 match in Mexico City.

The Princess of Wales made a surprise visit to Wimbledon, where she helped stewards distribute tickets, greeted fans and posed for photographs. Welcomed with applause, she later watched British wildcard Arthur Fery play on Court 18 alongside former player Tim Henman and All England Lawn Tennis Club chair Debbie Jevans.

The Princess of Wales greeted fans queuing early for Wimbledon, assisting stewards with ticket distribution before watching British player Arthur Fery’s match on Court 18 alongside Tim Henman and AELTC chair Debbie Jevans. She received applause from spectators and her appearance marked one of her first major public outings since confirming she was cancer‑free at the start of 2025.

Organisers of the Sandringham Horse Driving Trials apologised after a Confederate flag, widely associated with racism and white supremacy, was displayed during a Saturday evening supper at the King’s estate. The event faced criticism, and organisers said they were sorry for the hurt caused and would prevent a recurrence. Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh, competed at the event, while Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor was reportedly present the following day amid continuing scrutiny of his public appearances and legal troubles.

A Confederate flag, widely associated with white supremacy and racism, was displayed during an evening supper at the Sandringham Horse Driving Trials, where Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh, competed. Event organisers apologised, acknowledged the harm caused by the symbol and promised it would not happen again. Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor was also reportedly seen attending the trials, despite his low public profile and continuing association with previous allegations involving Jeffrey Epstein.

Forecasts indicate a UK heatwave with temperatures nearing 29–30C in London and the southeast, while northern and western regions face more variable, wetter conditions. High pressure extending from the Azores is expected to bring warm to very warm weather to England and Wales, with Scotland and Northern Ireland remaining cloudier with rain. The Met Office confirms June as England’s hottest on record, with recent temperatures surpassing previous highs.

A new UK heatwave is expected to develop from the weekend, with temperatures reaching 28–30C in many parts of England and Wales and potentially 31–32C in southeast England and London. BBC Weather forecasts suggest the hot conditions could persist for around 10 days, although the Met Office says the extreme heat and humidity seen previously are unlikely to return at the same intensity. Scotland, Northern Ireland and northwest England are expected to remain cooler, cloudier and wetter, while the forecast follows record-breaking spring and June temperatures in England and Wales.

Forecasts indicate rising temperatures across the UK, with London expected to reach 31C by Monday. While southern regions stay warm and dry, northern and western areas face more unsettled weather, including thunderstorms and heavy rain with yellow warnings in parts of Northern Ireland and Scotland. High pressure building from the Azores will bring more settled and increasingly warm conditions toward the weekend, with temperatures potentially reaching the high 20s or 30C in southeast England.

The UK’s exceptional heatwave is expected to ease over the weekend, with the South East remaining hottest the longest and temperatures falling sharply by Sunday. A red Met Office warning affecting parts of southern England has ended, while amber warnings remain in several regions. The UK Health Security Agency has warned that extreme heat poses a risk even to healthy people and advised the public to stay hydrated, avoid the hottest parts of the day and check on vulnerable people. Next week is forecast to bring more average temperatures, wind and rain, particularly in the North West.

The UK is experiencing an extreme heatwave, with the hottest June-day record broken for the third consecutive day after temperatures reached 37.3C in Santon Downham, Suffolk. Parts of Norfolk could reach 40C, while a red Met Office warning remains in place across areas from London to Oxford and towards Canterbury. Health authorities have warned that the heat poses risks even to healthy people, and rail passengers have been advised to travel only if essential. Conditions are expected to ease over the weekend, with temperatures potentially falling by 15C from Sunday and returning to more typical levels next week.

Five weather warnings are in place across the UK. Yellow thunderstorm warnings cover parts of Scotland, Northern Ireland, northern England and Yorkshire and the Humber, with the Scottish warning extended until 3am. An amber extreme heat warning covers most of England until midnight, while a red warning covers London, southeast England and parts of eastern England until 9pm, amid forecasts of temperatures reaching 40°C.

The Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital has declared a critical incident because extreme heat and humidity are affecting its ability to deliver services. It follows similar declarations at hospitals in Portsmouth, Norfolk and Southampton, with some planned operations and outpatient appointments cancelled. Heat-related failures, including broken chiller units and MRI scanners that cannot operate, are placing significant pressure on NHS services and prompting special measures to protect patients.

Age UK warns that extreme heat can be particularly dangerous for older people, especially those over 85, who face higher mortality rates. Health policy manager Jenny Lippiatt said deaths are not inevitable and urged relatives and neighbours to check on older people, help them stay cool, assist with errands, and watch for symptoms of heat exhaustion and heatstroke.

Cancer diagnoses among people under 50 increased by 24% globally between 1990 and 2019. Research involving UK Biobank and US participants found that accelerated biological ageing was associated with a higher risk of early-onset lung, colorectal and uterine cancers. Using the PhenoAge algorithm and organ-specific ageing measures, scientists linked immune ageing to lung cancer and adipose-tissue ageing to colorectal cancer. Researchers said the findings may reflect the combined effects of lifestyle and environmental exposures, but they do not yet establish what is driving the global rise in early-onset cancers.

The UK Health Security Agency has issued an amber heat-health alert for eastern, southeastern and southwestern England from Thursday afternoon until Tuesday evening, with a yellow alert for the Midlands. Temperatures are forecast to exceed 30C in southern and southeastern England, reaching about 33C on Monday, while rising humidity may make conditions uncomfortable. Authorities warn of significant effects on health and care services, increased risks of drowning and cold-water shock, and heightened dangers for older people, young children and those with long-term health conditions. Recommended precautions include staying hydrated, avoiding peak sunlight and strenuous activity, keeping homes cool, and checking on vulnerable people.

The Major Oak in Sherwood Forest, a 1,200-year-old tree associated with the Robin Hood legend, has died after failing to produce leaves following several hot, dry summers. The exact cause is uncertain, but experts point to drought and heat linked to the UK’s warming climate, compacted soil from millions of visitors and past structural interventions as contributing factors. The RSPB had begun a support programme in 2023, but the tree could not be saved. Conservationists and cultural figures highlighted its exceptional ecological and historical importance, saying it will remain a natural monument and continue to support the forest ecosystem as it decomposes.

Amber heat-health alerts have been issued for several regions of England from Thursday through Tuesday as temperatures are forecast to reach 30C by Friday and up to 33C in southern and southeastern areas by Monday. Humid conditions and warm nights are expected, with older people, those with long-term illnesses, babies and young children among the groups most vulnerable to heat-related illness. Public health guidance includes avoiding the midday sun, staying hydrated, keeping homes cool, and recognizing signs of heat exhaustion.

Research involving girls aged nine to 16 in southeast England found that influencer culture can create pressure to pursue supposedly perfect lives, relationships and appearances, while reinforcing comparison, limited diversity and unattainable beauty standards. Younger girls reported concerns about self-esteem and sought support from family and peers, while older girls were more critical of influencer culture. Researchers developed a toolkit and diary to help girls process these pressures and recommended clearer resources explaining filters and photo editing. The findings come as Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced plans to prevent under-16s from creating or maintaining accounts on major social media platforms, with enforcement by Ofcom expected from spring 2027. Researchers cautioned that these pressures predate social media, but said platforms have intensified them, and urged adults to discuss social media with children openly rather than relying solely on control.

Jane and Alan Kelvey say the Ministry of Defence tried to downplay an encounter in which the Russian frigate Admiral Grigorovich fired warning shots near their yacht, Bright Future, 23 miles from the Isle of Wight. They reject Russia’s claim that the yacht made a dangerous approach and say no flares or radio warnings preceded the gunfire. The incident was monitored by the Royal Navy, while Keir Starmer called it reckless and the Conservatives described it as hugely concerning.

Jane and Alan Kelvey say a Russian frigate fired warning shots near their yacht, Bright Future, in the English Channel without first using flares or radio signals. They reject the Russian Ministry of Defence’s claim that the yacht made a dangerous approach in poor visibility and accuse the UK Ministry of Defence of downplaying the incident. The MoD described it as isolated, while Royal Navy vessels monitored the frigate and checked on the couple. Keir Starmer called the action reckless but said there was no indication of a more sinister incident, while Conservatives described it as evidence of a direct Russian threat.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced that the UK government plans to ban social media access for children under 16, with the measure expected to take effect early next year after regulations are passed. The government aims to complete the legislative process before Christmas. Starmer acknowledged that enforcement may not prevent every young person from accessing platforms, but defended the policy by comparing it with restrictions on alcohol sales to children. The announcement follows a consultation that received more than 116,000 responses, with 90 percent of parents supporting a minimum social media age of 16.

Multiple sinkholes discovered near a railway bridge forced the closure of all train lines between Purley and East Croydon, disrupting journeys to and from Gatwick Airport and causing long queues for replacement transport. Gatwick Express advised customers not to travel, while Thameslink said unused tickets would be accepted the following day. Network Rail engineers plugged the sinkholes and restored train services, although disruption continued into the night.

Passengers travelling through Gatwick Airport faced long queues and cancelled rail services after Network Rail engineers discovered multiple sinkholes on a railway bridge near Purley. All lines between Purley and East Croydon were temporarily closed, disrupting Gatwick Express, Thameslink and Southern journeys. Replacement buses were heavily congested, and passengers were advised not to travel. Engineers subsequently plugged the sinkholes and restored train services, although disruption was expected to continue into the night. Affected passengers were allowed to use their unused tickets on the following day.

Donald Trump condemned Israel’s attack on Beirut and angrily criticized Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, saying the strike threatened to derail a US peace deal with Iran. Trump said the agreement’s signing was delayed by several hours but was still expected to proceed. Iran’s top negotiator warned that the attacks raised doubts about whether the United States had the will or ability to honor its commitments.

New defence secretary Dan Jarvis said he is determined to secure the resources the UK Armed Forces need despite constrained public finances. His appointment followed John Healey’s resignation, which came after Healey warned that the Defence Investment Plan was underfunded and that additional support would arrive too late to meet urgent readiness requirements. Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch and Labour leadership contender Andy Burnham have both argued that reducing welfare spending could create room for higher defence investment, increasing pressure on Prime Minister Keir Starmer over the government’s funding plans.

Rare behind-the-scenes footage shared by the Prince and Princess of Wales shows Prince George, Princess Charlotte, Prince Louis, Catherine and Prince William at Trooping the Colour, including informal moments of the family laughing and feeding a horse. The video also depicts parade rehearsals, spectators and the royal carriage procession along The Mall. The ceremony featured thousands of spectators and members of prominent British regiments, while King Charles praised the Grenadier Guards for their longstanding service and sacrifice.

Donald Trump says a peace deal with Iran is scheduled to be signed Sunday and that the Strait of Hormuz would immediately reopen to all shipping. Iran’s Foreign Ministry disputes the proposed timing, while Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif says the two sides have agreed on a framework and that Pakistan is preparing for an electronic signing followed by technical talks. The effort comes before the G7 summit amid the wider Middle East conflict.

Keir Starmer and Donald Trump discussed progress toward an Iran peace agreement during a phone call, with Starmer offering UK support for Trump’s peace initiatives and stressing the need for a durable settlement. They agreed that freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz must be restored to reduce global economic disruption; the UK and France may assist with post-conflict demining. Trump is expected to discuss plans with allies at the G7 summit in France, while Starmer faces scrutiny over defence spending after the resignations of John Healey and Al Carns amid delays to a defence investment plan.

Temperatures across the UK are expected to rise next week as warmer air moves into Europe and high pressure builds. After showers early in the week, southeastern England could reach about 27C from Wednesday, with a possibility of 30C by the end of the week. Wales may reach 23C and Scotland around 20C, while thunderstorms, cloud and rain are also forecast in some areas.

Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif says the United States and Iran have agreed on a framework for a peace deal, with an electronic signing potentially taking place within 24 hours and technical talks to follow. Donald Trump has issued conflicting comments, while Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent expressed optimism that an agreement could be reached soon and lower energy prices. The United Arab Emirates has reportedly released billions of dollars to Iran as negotiations continue.

Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham says a future government under his leadership would increase defence spending partly by reducing the welfare bill and moving more people from benefits into work. He proposes 10-year plans for defence, security, public investment and procurement, while arguing that changing global threats require greater national resilience. His comments come as Prime Minister Keir Starmer faces mounting pressure after Defence Secretary John Healey and Armed Forces Minister Al Carns resigned over the government’s Defence Investment Plan. Burnham is also preparing for a potential return to Parliament through the Makerfield by-election and is reportedly organizing a prospective Downing Street operation.

The White House says a peace agreement with Iran could be signed within days. The reported deal would reopen the Strait of Hormuz, lift the blockade, dismantle Iran’s nuclear program and potentially end the war in Lebanon. Pakistan’s prime minister says a final text has been reached, while Iranian state media has reported similar terms.

SpaceX’s shares opened at $150 on the Nasdaq, an 11% increase over the initial listing price, valuing the company at roughly $2 trillion and substantially increasing Elon Musk’s paper wealth. The IPO reportedly raised $75 billion and attracted exceptionally strong demand from retail investors, including in the UK, where allocations were scaled back. The funding is intended to support Starlink’s expansion, space-based AI data centres and the development of the reusable Starship rocket, while the profitability prospects of the merged xAI business remain uncertain.