Matt Clemenson

Police identified Joshua Kerry as the suspect in the killing of former MP Ann Widdecombe, who was attacked in her Dartmoor home before a scheduled television appearance. Investigators believe she was assaulted around midday, with her body found the following morning. Kerry was initially arrested on suspicion of murder and later re-arrested under terrorism legislation, though no charges have been filed. Tributes from senior political figures highlighted Widdecombe’s long career in public life, while authorities urged caution to avoid prejudicing a future trial. Counter Terrorism Policing has taken over the investigation.

Police chiefs criticised the UK Government for a last‑minute decision allowing pubs in England and Wales to stay open until 5am for England’s World Cup match against Mexico, arguing it forces policing plan changes and diverts officers from communities. They warned of increased risks of alcohol‑related violence and domestic abuse during knockout matches and urged fans to drink responsibly. Hundreds of pubs from Greene King, Marston’s, and others plan to open late under the blanket extension, with pub operators welcoming the move for creating strong match‑day atmospheres. England qualified for the round of 16 after defeating the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Victims of Rochdale grooming gang ringleader Shabir Ahmed express fear ahead of his release after serving 14 years for rape and sexual offences. Ahmed, who cannot be deported due to protections under the Immigration Act 1971 despite losing his British citizenship, will be released under strict licence conditions including exclusion zones and electronic monitoring. Advocacy groups highlight ongoing trauma among victims and criticize failures by authorities, while political pressure continues over the inability to deport dual‑national offenders involved in grooming gangs.