Matthew Benton-Smith

Temperatures in Essex are expected to fall sharply overnight following a period of warm, heatwave-like weather. Chelmsford and Colchester could reach lows of 7C on Saturday, August 22, while Basildon is forecast to fall to 8C. Daytime temperatures are expected to remain in the low to mid-20s earlier in the week before cooler conditions and light rain arrive later.

A NATO F-16 fighter jet made an emergency landing at Zakynthos Airport, catching fire on the runway and causing significant disruption to flights. Local reports indicate the pilot is safe and a landing gear issue forced the emergency landing. Airlines including Ryanair, Jet2 and TUI have rerouted or rescheduled services as the airport prepares an operational update, with departures from Stansted to resume as early as July 10.

A by-election in Clacton has been triggered following Nigel Farage’s resignation as MP, with the writ moved by Reform UK’s Lee Anderson. Polling is expected on August 13, and Farage plans to stand again amid an ongoing investigation into whether he properly declared a £5 million donation. Major parties including Labour, the Conservatives, the Liberal Democrats and the Greens will not field candidates, while several smaller or independent figures plan to run. Political leaders have exchanged criticisms over the timing and circumstances of the contest, and the government has rejected Reform UK’s offer to fund the election, affirming that public funding ensures independence.

Nigel Farage resigned as MP for Clacton to trigger a by-election he intends to contest, framing the vote as a battle between the public and the political establishment. He accused media outlets of endangering his family, rejected allegations of financial impropriety, and defended a large personal gift as legitimate and unconditional. Farage argued that scrutiny of his wealth and outside income reflects bias from opponents and the press, asserting that establishment forces are using unfair tactics against Reform UK following recent electoral gains.

A major field fire in Weeley spread across about 50 acres, prompting Essex County Fire and Rescue Service to deploy eight crews and close the A133 for safety. Firefighters brought the blaze under control, continued damping down hotspots and prepared to reopen the road. The cause remains unknown, and authorities urged the public to avoid the area during the incident.

A field fire forced the closure of the A133 between Weeley roundabout and Little Clacton, with motorists advised to avoid the area and expect delays. Fire crews and police remain at the scene while authorities assess the situation and determine how long the closure will remain in place.

Police are searching for 17-year-old Walid Sami, last seen on June 21 in the St Dominic Road area of Colchester. Officers have launched an investigation and are appealing for public assistance. He is described as 5ft 4ins tall with dark hair shaved at the sides, blond highlights, a zig-zag pattern, and was last seen wearing a light blue tracksuit.

A trader operating as Best Rated Roofers was sentenced to 44 months in prison after admitting to fraudulently charging a vulnerable Essex homeowner for unnecessary and overpriced roofing work. Investigators found the repairs were misrepresented, poorly executed and significantly inflated, with the victim later paying nearly £18,000 to remedy the damage. A Criminal Behaviour Order now restricts the trader’s ability to solicit work or take advance payments, and restraining orders prevent contact with victims. Officials warn residents to avoid unsolicited offers, seek multiple quotes and use trusted traders, urging anyone targeted by rogue operators to contact consumer support services.