Patrick Glover

The British Heart Foundation will close 87 charity shops by March 2027 as part of 150 planned closures prompted by rising costs and shifting customer behaviour. Leaders Charmaine Griffiths and Allison Swaine-Hughes emphasise the difficulty of the decision but say it is necessary to sustain funding for cardiovascular research. Despite the closures, the charity reports a strong overall financial position and will continue operating a large national network along with online retail channels. Support for affected staff is promised, and donations will still be accepted through nearby shops, collection points, and online options.

Major European airports are experiencing significant delays due to the EU’s Entry/Exit System, which requires biometric checks for non‑EU travellers. Ryanair has expanded its warning list to 16 airports where long queues are expected, citing slow processing, faulty equipment and insufficient staffing. Airlines are urging the EU to extend system flexibilities until 2027, while the ETIAS pre‑authorisation scheme has also been postponed to 2027 due to technical and staffing issues. Passengers are advised to allow extra travel time and prepare for lengthy waits at passport control.

Police launched a murder investigation after former MP Ann Widdecombe was found dead with serious injuries in Haytor, leading to the arrest of a 26‑year‑old man in Newton Abbot. Officers continue forensic work, house‑to‑house inquiries and CCTV review, stressing the incident is not terror‑related or politically motivated. Senior political figures expressed shock, and authorities appealed for public information through a major incident portal as the investigation continues.

Cach Mercer, a recent Love Island winner and social media personality, has been announced as the fifth confirmed contestant for Strictly Come Dancing 2026, joining a lineup that includes Lacey Turner, Dani Dyer, Delta Goodrem and Chris Appleton. Mercer, who has a substantial TikTok following and works as a model and DJ, expressed excitement about joining the show. New hosts Johannes Radebe, Emma Willis and Josh Widdicombe will replace Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly when the series returns in September on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.

Mission Digital, a London-based digital imaging company with credits on major films, has entered administration after 15 years, reporting significant net liabilities despite notable past projects. Administrators from Antony Batty & Company were appointed on June 29. The article explains the administration process under UK law and places the event within a broader pattern of 2026 business failures, listing numerous retailers, travel firms, and airlines that have also entered administration or liquidation. Some high street brands are expanding or returning, offering isolated positive developments amid widespread commercial closures.

England will face Mexico in the World Cup Round of 16 at Estadio Azteca, with kick-off set for 1am UK time after FIFA decided against moving the match despite forecast thunderstorms. Coverage will air on BBC One and BBC iPlayer. England manager Thomas Tuchel highlighted the challenges of altitude, limited acclimatisation and potential noise disruptions, as Mexico’s stadium has historically been difficult for visiting teams. Increased police presence aimed to prevent disturbances similar to those experienced by Ecuador earlier in the tournament.

McDonald's is removing its recently launched Vanilla Matcha Frappé from UK menus on July 13 after mixed customer feedback, replacing it with the new Strawberry Candyfloss Frappé and the returning Green Apple x Sprite Zero. Other summer drinks such as Raspberry x Sprite Zero and Frozen Cherry Lemonade will remain available as part of the chain’s seasonal beverage lineup.