Phil Cardy

Manchester Arena attack survivor Paul Price said he felt abandoned after spending nine months in hospital recovering from life-changing injuries and grieving the death of his partner, Detective Constable Elaine McIver. He said promised support was not available when he returned to his parents' home and that he struggled to rebuild his life. Price also criticized the Criminal Injuries Compensation Authority, saying delays and repeated demands for evidence made the compensation process another source of trauma. Survivors Against Terror says support for terrorism victims remains fragmented and inconsistent.

Former England midfielder Peter Reid has called for FIFA President Gianni Infantino to resign, arguing that the abandoned plan to sell stakes in World Cup-related competitions to private investors showed a disregard for football’s supporters and grassroots development. UEFA and the Football Association backed the withdrawal of the proposal and demanded a thorough review of FIFA’s leadership, transparency and governance. Critics also pointed to FIFA’s substantial reserves, the high cost of attending the 2026 World Cup and concerns over secret presidential ballots, leaving Infantino facing a broader crisis of trust ahead of the next election.

Andy Burnham said regional mayors should use newly devolved shares of income tax and business rates to fund long-term growth and investment rather than immediate tax rebates. He argued that short-term giveaways could halt the economic growth needed to generate future revenue. Speaking in Sheffield, Burnham also indicated that he was inclined to preserve jury trials despite proposed restrictions, said he would consider devolving decisions over asylum hotels and HMOs, and confirmed plans to visit Dover to examine small-boat arrivals. He described his first two weeks as prime minister as intense but said he intended to pursue a less confrontational change in how the country is governed.

Southport observed a three-minute silence on the second anniversary of the July 29, 2024 knife attack that killed children Alice da Silva Aguiar, Bebe King and Elsie Dot Stancombe at a Taylor Swift-themed dance class. Residents, Sefton Council and Merseyside Police gathered in the town hall gardens to remember the victims and survivors, while memorial foundations established in the children's names continue supporting young people and grieving children. The community was encouraged to donate to local causes rather than leave floral tributes, and a recent public inquiry concluded that the attack could and should have been prevented.

Saltburn 2nd XI is under investigation after footage appeared to show a slip fielder clicking his fingers just before a wicketkeeper caught the ball, potentially misleading the umpire into ruling the batter out. The incident occurred during Saltburn’s 159-run victory over Norton in the North Yorkshire and South Durham League. A formal complaint has been lodged, and Middlesbrough captain Rory Cotterill has alleged a similar incident occurred in an earlier match. The league has begun a full investigation and will not comment further until its procedures are complete.

A father of a girl injured in the Southport attack condemned ambulance staff for allegedly accessing his daughter's medical records without justification, adding to an existing investigation into similar breaches at Aintree Hospital. Lawyers representing victims called for a full NHS England review, citing a pattern of inappropriate data access and weak disciplinary responses across trusts. Concerns were raised that forthcoming single patient record plans could increase the risk of widespread snooping unless robust safeguards are introduced. North West Ambulance Service confirmed it is formally investigating and apologised for the distress caused.

At least 12 people were killed and 23 remain missing after severe wildfires swept through Spain’s Almeria province, with several victims believed to be British nationals. A British man died while speaking to his wife after returning to rescue pets, and four other Britons are thought to have perished in a burned-out car convoy. A British couple was rescued with critical burns, and authorities continue to search remote areas, hindered by difficult terrain and extreme fire damage. Officials and relatives disagree over whether residents received proper evacuation instructions. DNA testing is underway to identify victims as firefighting crews and soldiers maintain operations amid a prolonged heatwave.

Mourners gathered at St Peter's Church in Prestbury for the funeral of Alex Hughes, son of former footballer Mark Hughes, who died unexpectedly at 38. Mark Hughes carried the coffin alongside family members, while prominent football figures including Sir Alex Ferguson, Ryan Giggs and Bryan Robson attended. Emotional tributes were delivered by Alex’s father‑in‑law David Pollock and his brother Curtis, reflecting on his devotion to family and passion for football. Alex’s career in recruitment and analysis across several clubs, most recently Grimsby Town, was highlighted, and Grimsby plans to dedicate its first match of the season to him. The service emphasized his warmth, loyalty and deep love for the game.

Police forces in England and Wales recorded at least 1,369 firearms‑related arrests of children under 18 over two years, with some suspects as young as 11, raising concerns that county lines gangs are exploiting younger victims to carry guns and other weapons. Major urban forces reported the highest numbers, though data was incomplete across all regions. Experts and charities warn that many children involved are coerced victims and call for early intervention, prevention, and targeted support. Police leaders note that most cases likely involve imitation firearms but acknowledge their use in intimidation and criminal coercion. Government data shows rising levels of child criminal exploitation, prompting calls for stronger safeguarding measures and tougher action against adults responsible for grooming minors into gang activity.

A 72‑year‑old woman, Daryl Berman, was sentenced to life in prison after being convicted of murdering her husband David at their home in Prestwich. She initially claimed he had fallen on a knife, but a post‑mortem examination revealed the wound was deliberate and included a defensive injury. Judge Tina Landale said Berman acted in sudden loss of temper but did not intend to kill. Family members described shock and emotional devastation, while police said Berman attempted to disguise the killing as an accident. The conviction followed a retrial after an earlier jury failed to reach a verdict.

Fans across England celebrated after the national team’s 2-1 comeback win over DR Congo, driven by two goals from Harry Kane to secure a place in the World Cup last 16. Pubs and bars were packed nationwide as many workers left early to watch the match, with industry groups reporting significant boosts in footfall and trade. Supporters expressed relief after a tense first half and erupted during Kane’s late equaliser and winner. Business associations noted widespread flexible working and increased absences tied to the early evening kickoff, while venues such as Boxpark saw large crowds and energetic celebrations. England now look ahead to facing Mexico in the next round.