Matthew O’Hara

Four men were arrested after a joint operation at an unapproved meat-cutting plant in Dudley led to the seizure of approximately 4.25 tonnes of illegal meat. Dudley Council, the National Food Crime Unit, the Food Standards Agency, West Midlands Police, HMRC and the Home Office were involved. Authorities warned that the meat had bypassed required safety and hygiene checks and could pose risks of disease and contamination. The FSA and NFCU issued a Food Alert for Action, began tracing and removing the products from the market, and launched a criminal investigation.

A driver was tasered and arrested in Halesowen after West Midlands Police officers identified a cloned Volkswagen Golf linked to a violent incident. Police said the driver fled after a brief pursuit, resisted arrest, and was found with several balaclavas and weapons in the vehicle.

A woman allegedly stole items from a Next store in Dudley and later returned to attempt to return them. Police say she took the items back after being confronted by staff and assaulted a shop worker. West Midlands Police released a CCTV image and appealed for witnesses or anyone who can identify the woman to contact them.

Three 11-year-old boys—Ethan, Ellian and Kodie—were named Young Community Champions after asking PC Sophie Peacock about policing and then collecting litter from Oldbury High Street. West Midlands Police praised their curiosity, kindness and commitment to improving their community, and presented them with a certificate.

Police arrested an 18-year-old man after he failed to stop a vehicle in Halesowen, later abandoning it in Lye. Officers recovered tools, weapons and a possible firearm, which was sent for forensic analysis. The suspect was detained on suspicion of firearm possession, going equipped, dangerous driving and failing to stop, then released on bail while enquiries continue. West Midlands Police stated they are targeting offenders involved in serious and organised crime.

The car park at Brinton Park in Kidderminster will close on July 13 from 8am to midnight as part of improvement works. Wyre Forest District Council says pedestrian access will remain open and that the project is funded by the Heritage Lottery to support restoration and enhancement of the park for residents and visitors.

A 1940s-themed event at the Severn Valley Railway attracted positive feedback despite disappointment over the ban on German military outfits following visitor concerns. The Severn Valley Railway Society said the decision was made due to sensitivities surrounding the Second World War and associated symbolism. Attendees praised the attractions, including tank demonstrations, vintage transport, and live music, calling the experience enjoyable and well-organised.

Paulina Makazlieva, a 19‑year‑old from Kidderminster and member of the Young Gloves Karate Club, has been selected to represent England at the ICO World Combat Martial Arts Championships in Thonon‑les‑Bains, France, in October 2026. She expressed her determination to make her family, team, and late father proud through her training and performance. King Charles I School’s head of sixth form praised her dedication and predicted continued success as she prepares for the world stage.

The Stourbridge Carnival returned with strong attendance, offering vintage car displays, live music across multiple stages and a variety of stalls, markets and funfair rides. Free parking was provided to maximise accessibility. Reform UK councillor Caley Ashman praised the event, highlighting its attractions and importance to the local community.

West Midlands Police are seeking 29‑year‑old Karl Gibbs after he failed to appear in court on criminal damage charges in Oldbury, urging anyone with information to call 101 quoting reference 20/17375/26.

A new Channel 5 drama titled Suspect: The Road Rage Killer examines the 1996 Worcestershire murder of Lee Harvey by his partner, Tracie Andrews. The programme traces Andrews’ shifting account, media attention surrounding the case, and the police investigation that ultimately identified her as the killer. Emma Rigby portrays Andrews in the production, which draws on firsthand accounts, transcripts, and police records and is described as a psychological crime thriller.

Police and council teams conducted a joint operation in Halesowen to address rising complaints about off-road and electric bikes linked to anti-social behaviour in local parks and neighbourhoods. Officers targeted hotspots, seized an e‑bike from a teenager during a stop and search, issued warnings for underage bike use, and provided legal guidance to those involved. Authorities emphasised the safety risks posed by illegal riding and encouraged residents to report incidents to support ongoing enforcement efforts.

Kidderminster Shuttle archives from July and August 1966 recount local stories surrounding England’s World Cup victory, including the Young Georgians Youth Club’s efforts to organise an international quiz tournament and Kidderminster Harriers’ financial challenges as they sought funding for new social headquarters during an economic crisis.

A fire at Dudley Borough Council’s Blowers Green Waste Depot was detected late on July 3, prompting an evacuation and emergency response. West Midlands Fire Service deployed five crews and brought the incident under control, with no injuries reported. The council confirmed the depot was cleared and fully operational by July 4 and commended the waste team for restoring services.