Robson Mccallister

A fire that began in fields at Daisy Farm Park destroyed homes and Srikanth Meadavarapu’s summer house on Gorleston Road in Highters Heath, Birmingham, on August 13. Meadavarapu helped neighbours save belongings before discovering that his own office and children’s play space had burned, while resident Imran Khan evacuated his family. The cause remains unknown, with suspected arson being investigated by West Midlands Police and West Midlands Fire Service.

A fundraiser has been established for the two teenage children of Jim Dinan, a 50-year-old Midland police officer who died on August 8 after more than 20 years of service. West Midlands Police Federation secretary Chris James described Dinan as a courageous, professional and supportive colleague who was devoted to his wife and children.

An 82-year-old man was pushed from his mobility scooter on Paddock Lane in Walsall on August 18 and robbed of a wallet containing £200. West Midlands Police arrested two men, aged 48 and 40, on suspicion of robbery; both remain in custody while enquiries continue.

Donald Sheppard, a 64-year-old Birmingham man, died at the scene after his Ford Focus was involved in a collision with three lorries on the northbound M6 near Seabridge on August 17. His family described him as a devoted husband, cherished brother, much-loved uncle and loyal friend. The lorry drivers were taken to hospital, with one still receiving treatment on August 20. Staffordshire Police are appealing for witnesses and CCTV or dashcam footage.

More than £155,000 has been raised for families affected by wildfires across the West Midlands. Funds are supporting emergency living expenses, essential items and rebuilding efforts, with major appeals covering Birmingham, Stourbridge, Pershore, Oldbury and Stoke-on-Trent. The Heart of England Community Foundation has raised over £50,000 through its regional emergency appeal, while local fundraisers have provided additional support to families who lost homes, possessions and pets.

Drivers using Birmingham Airport’s standard drop-off zone were charged up to £14 after congestion caused by the closure of the nearby M42 prevented them from leaving within the usual ten-minute free period. Kevin Betts said it took 25 minutes to exit amid queues, a closed lane and poor traffic direction. NCP apologised, attributed the delays to traffic backing up at the airport entrance, and said affected customers could request refunds.

British Transport Police are seeking information about a boy suspected of robbing a teenager at knifepoint on a train traveling between Solihull and Warwick on August 12. The suspect allegedly demanded and stole the victim’s black Trek Slash mountain bike before getting off at Warwick. The victim was not injured but was left shaken. Witnesses or anyone who recognizes the youth are asked to contact BTP or Crimestoppers.

Srikanth Meadavarapu evacuated four neighbours after a fire began in the summer house behind his home on Gorleston Road in Highters Heath, Birmingham, on August 13. He alerted residents, attempted to slow the flames, and helped neighbours retrieve belongings before emergency crews arrived. The blaze destroyed his summer house, spread across six homes and left families without roofs. Its cause remains unknown, with suspected arson being investigated by West Midlands Police and West Midlands Fire Service.

A resident of Moreton Close in Quinton says a group of more than ten adults has subjected the neighbourhood to a year of escalating disruption, including loud noise, littering, suspected drug use, intimidation and alleged criminal damage. He says he fears for his safety and is seeking alternative accommodation. West Midlands Police urged victims to report incidents and said dedicated neighbourhood officers, partner agencies and targeted patrols are addressing anti-social behaviour.

Independent Neapolitan pizzeria Red Hot Mamma in Solihull says its summer terrace has been repeatedly vandalised, with displays pushed over, plants pulled out or stolen, and people sitting on its planters. The family-run business says the damage is costly and emotionally distressing, and asks visitors to respect its property, staff and work.

Former Great Barr resident Bob Hill, 61, moved to Benidorm with his wife in 2016 after years of visiting the Spanish resort. The former DJ is now frontman of five-piece ska band UB42TONE, which performs covers inspired by Birmingham group UB40 and is preparing its first night of original music. Hill, who considers Ali Campbell a major influence, says he has no plans to return to Birmingham, describing Benidorm as more relaxed and arguing that its negative reputation is exaggerated by the disruptive behavior of some visiting tourists.

Birmingham-based University of Birmingham doctoral student and Great Britain runner Poppy Tank is preparing to compete in the 10,000m at the European Athletics Championships. After studying kinesiology at the University of Utah, she is researching the recycling of hip and knee replacements while training for sessions lasting up to four hours. Tank discusses her preference for Harborne and Edgbaston, her high-calorie eating routine, and how a successful 3,000m steeplechase season helped restore her enjoyment of athletics and confirmed that long-distance running is her preferred event.

A fire in the bin room of Chamberlain Court on the Chamberlain Park estate in Harborne forced the evacuation of residents from nine flats. The blaze, believed to have been accidental, damaged the block’s electrical meters and affected power supplies to properties within 200 metres for around three hours. No one was injured, but residents require temporary accommodation. Pensioner Geoff Tedstone described smoke-filled hallways and praised the rapid response of the West Midlands Fire Service.

The Billesley Ark in Birmingham offers a Tuesday food pantry where people pay £5.50 for supermarket food worth about £20, alongside activities, companionship and support for vulnerable residents. Visitor Nicola Gillespie says the centre has helped her cope with caring responsibilities, loneliness and family pressures. Manager Nathan Berrisford, who previously experienced homelessness, says the pantry is open to everyone regardless of employment status and has helped build his confidence. The centre also raises funds through venue hire, runs community activities such as knitting and karate, and works with housing provider Sustain UK to help people find accommodation. It operates as part of the non-profit organisation Malachi.

Gary Meads, landlord of the Coach & Horses near Bromsgrove, says he could vote Labour for the first time if Andy Burnham backed a VAT cut for pubs. He welcomes the government’s planned 20% reduction in business rates for pubs, clubs and live-music venues from next April, but argues that a VAT reduction would be a more immediate and valuable measure, potentially worth £50,000 a year to his business. After previously fearing the 18th-century pub might close, Meads now expects it to remain open into 2027 following a strong summer.

A section of Stratford Road in Birmingham was closed on the evening of August 10 after police established a cordon between Ladypool Road and Palmerston Road, near Aldi in Sparkbrook. Multiple police vehicles were seen, while the reason for the cordon remained unknown. Social media reports suggested a body was at the scene, and an eyewitness advised people to avoid the area.

Two men aged 18 and 51 were arrested in Handsworth, Birmingham, on suspicion of possessing Class A drugs with intent to supply. Officers stopped their vehicle on Park Road after receiving community intelligence and recovered suspected drugs, cash and a mobile phone. A search of a linked address also found a machete; both men remained in police custody on August 10.

Police are investigating three linked incidents in Lozells, Birmingham: a man attacked on Witton Road around 7am, followed by two stabbings on Lozells Road and Finch Road after 9am. Two victims suffered life-threatening injuries, while the third was discharged from hospital. A 31-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder and remains in custody. West Midlands Police believe he is linked to all three incidents and are seeking witness, mobile phone and dashcam footage. The force will refer the case to the Independent Office for Police Conduct because of earlier contact with the suspect.

West Midlands Police are searching for Alimat, a 31-year-old Wolverhampton resident, and her three children, who have been missing since August 8. They were last seen in Birmingham’s Digbeth area, and police asked anyone who sees Alimat to call 999 and quote reference RID 1160387.

Nineteen-year-old Musa Rafiq of Worcester was convicted of dangerous driving after being caught travelling at 98mph in a 30mph zone on the A4103 near Leigh Sinton on February 20, 2026. Worcester Magistrates Court disqualified him from driving for 18 months and ordered 200 hours of unpaid work, £85 in costs and a £114 victim surcharge. The offence occurred in a residential area with a history of collisions, close to a primary school.

The West Midlands Combined Authority plans to invest more than £13 million in Birmingham homelessness services, funding 27 supported housing units, including female-only emergency beds and care-level accommodation, plus eight caseworkers. SIFA Fireside head of services Gareth Webber calls the investment a badly needed good start but says it will not end rough sleeping or provide a long-term solution, citing rising need and a shortage of safe accommodation with appropriate support. Birmingham City Council says the funding is part of a wider strategy involving housing, health, commissioned providers and voluntary organisations to make homelessness rare, brief and non-recurring.

Ben Cullen, a Birmingham-born former aspiring tattoo artist, has built a successful career creating hyper-realistic illusion cakes despite having no previous interest in baking. His work, including replicas of food, objects, celebrities and fictional characters, has attracted 500,000 Instagram followers and more than 13 million TikTok likes. Cullen says the pandemic and the popularity of Netflix's Is It Cake? accelerated public interest in the craft, while collaborations such as a Ray-Ban advertisement in Times Square expanded his profile. He views baking primarily as an artistic medium and hopes to create a cake modeled on Birmingham City's new stadium.

PETA is offering a £5,000 reward for information leading to the identification of the person who stabbed a male Rottweiler to death in Chelmsley Wood, Solihull. The dog was found under a bridge near Kingshurst Brook on Bosworth Drive, and the RSPCA believes it was killed elsewhere before being dumped. PETA and the RSPCA are urging anyone with relevant information to contact the charity, while new RSPCA figures indicate a significant rise in reported animal cruelty during the summer.

Residents on Antrobus Road in Handsworth reported that newly delivered recycling bins were covered in bird droppings, with some neighbours having to clean them before use. The bins were distributed as part of Birmingham City Council's north Birmingham recycling pilot, which introduces fortnightly household-waste collections and restores fortnightly recycling collections amid an ongoing binmen strike involving Unite members. The council apologised, explained that the bins had been stored outdoors before delivery, and said it had raised the issue with the supplier and delivery contractor.

A man in his 40s was arrested on suspicion of attempted murder after police were called to Boulton Road in Handsworth around midnight following reports of a man with a knife. A second man in his 20s was found with stab injuries and taken to hospital; his injuries are not believed to be life-changing. West Midlands Police said the two men were known to each other and that investigations are ongoing. Councillor Shuranjeet Singh said residents were concerned for their safety, while Ash-Shahada Housing Association said it would support the investigation and review security arrangements.

A cherry picker van owned by Kelly Communications struck a lamppost and damaged a bus stop on Cartland Road in Kings Heath, Birmingham. Police and an ambulance attended, but the extent of any injuries and the cause of the collision were initially unknown. Kelly Communications confirmed that the driver was safe and receiving support from his family.

The West Midlands has been declared in drought for the second consecutive year amid record-low rainfall, high temperatures and three heatwaves. The Environment Agency is restricting water abstraction, maintaining River Severn flows through reservoir releases and groundwater supplies, and carrying out fish rescues on affected rivers. July rainfall has reached only 7% of expected levels across England and 1% in southern England, while depleted water storage and drying vegetation are increasing risks to agriculture, wildlife and wildfires. Officials warn that widespread, sustained rain is not currently forecast and are urging water conservation while the government presses water companies to reduce leaks and invest in infrastructure.

The Labyrinth Challenge, described as the UK’s biggest inflatable obstacle course, will visit Tamworth Castle in Staffordshire on August 15 and 16 as part of a 10th-anniversary tour organized by Simply The Best Events. The course covers more than 1,000 feet and includes over 34 obstacles across five zones, alongside a 9,000-square-foot bouncy castle. The event is open to all ages, offers SEN-friendly sessions, free spectator entry and parking, and encourages advance booking because spaces are limited.

The Andrews family has lived in the same house on Greenoak Crescent in Stirchley for 100 years, after Henry and Alice Andrews moved there in 1926. Their descendants now report recurring sightings of a black, smoke-like shadow that first appeared in 2010. Neil Andrews believes the apparition could be the ghost of a former family pet, while family members and a visitor have also claimed to see it.

A Birmingham man returned to The Church Tavern in Perry Barr, 58 years after drinking his first pint there in 1968, when half a pint of mild shandy cost 6p. He shared his reaction to a modern pint of Carling on TikTok and told co-owner Anand Virdi about the venue’s history. The pub, which recently reopened under new ownership, attracted strong crowds and so many food orders that it had to acquire two additional tills.

Birmingham Live compares graduation guest-ticket charges at five universities. Aston University and the University of Birmingham provide two free guest tickets per graduate, while Birmingham City University charges £18.50 per guest, Newman University charges £23 for adults and £13 for children aged 12 and under, and University College Birmingham charges £27 per guest. Birmingham City University says ticket income helps cover ceremony costs and offers free tickets through a bursary for students from low-income households.

A trial beginning September 1 will run heritage steam and diesel trains between Bewdley and Kidderminster to connect with West Midlands Railway services into Birmingham, aiming to assess demand for extending regular passenger services. The initiative, involving Severn Valley Railway and regional transport bodies, offers weekday commuter trips and seeks to demonstrate the economic and connectivity benefits of linking Bewdley more closely with the wider rail network. Local and regional leaders express strong support, highlighting innovation, improved transport options, and potential long‑term integration into the main rail system.

A Birmingham man in his seventies was arrested on Aberavon Beach in Port Talbot after reports of anti‑social behaviour, suspected possession of a bladed article, and breaching police bail conditions. South Wales Police confirmed he was taken into custody and later released under investigation.

Gary Crane pushed a shopkeeper during a robbery in Rugby, fled with stolen alcohol, and later headbutted a police officer while being arrested. CCTV confirmed the assault on the shop worker. Crane admitted robbery and assaulting a constable and received a 38‑month jail sentence along with a victim surcharge.

Data compiled by the Born Free charity shows that a range of dangerous wild animals, including a lion, a tiger, venomous snakes and wolves, are legally kept under licence in the West Midlands. Born Free argues that the Dangerous Wild Animals Act 1976 is outdated and no longer ensures that such ownership remains an exceptional circumstance. The charity highlights risks to both public safety and animal welfare and urges the government to overhaul legislation governing the trade and private keeping of wild animals. Details of exotic animals held across several Midlands locations are listed, underscoring the scale and variety of privately kept species.

A serious collision involving three cars and a van closed the M5 northbound between junctions 5 and 4A, causing delays of up to 40 minutes and several miles of congestion. Emergency services, including an air ambulance, attended and later left the scene while recovery work continued. Traffic was initially trapped but later released, and diversion routes via the A38 and M42 were put in place. One lane remains closed with delays expected to persist.

Police arrested a 40-year-old man after a brass memorial plaque was stolen from the Darlaston Cenotaph in Wednesbury early on July 19. The suspect was detained on July 20 and later released under investigation as enquiries continue, according to West Midlands Police.

Police are seeking two men after a handbag was stolen from a car in a Tesco car park in Sutton Coldfield, with the victim’s bank card later used to spend more than £1,000. West Midlands Police released images of the individuals and urged anyone with information to contact them, quoting the crime reference number provided.

Two teenagers were arrested on suspicion of violent disorder after a fight broke out on Halesowen High Street, causing road closures and delays. Local residents condemned the incident on social media, criticising parental negligence and calling for tougher youth penalties. Witnesses described the scene as frightening and urged parents to take responsibility. West Midlands Police requested CCTV or mobile footage to support their investigation and provided contact details for further information.

Police are seeking help identifying a man in a Morocco football shirt after a security guard was injured by a thrown glass bottle at the Slug & Lettuce in Brindleyplace. The incident occurred around 1am on July 5, and West Midlands Police have released images of the suspect while asking the public to provide information via 101, Live Chat or Crimestoppers.

Police in Rugby responded to social‑media reports claiming a man had chased children with a knife and attempted to steal their bikes, but after identifying a reported victim and reviewing CCTV, officers found no evidence of offences or weapons involved.

A long-closed Perry Barr pub, the Church Tavern, has reopened following refurbishment, a redesigned car park and the introduction of an Indian-inspired tapas menu. New owners aim to revive the venue’s former popularity, emphasising fresh ingredients and improved food quality. The site also includes a renamed soft play area that will operate via private bookings. A temporary discount is offered to attract customers as the owners work to rebuild the pub’s reputation.

West Midlands Police are seeking witnesses and the identity of a driver who allegedly rammed a motorcyclist off their bike on Coventry Road on May 23, causing serious injuries. The vehicle is believed to be a silver Skoda Octavia. Police urge anyone with information or dashcam footage to contact them quoting the relevant crime number.

A large group of teenagers engaged in violent disorder on Halesowen High Street, prompting a significant police response and a dispersal order across the town centre. Two teenagers were arrested, and officers are working to determine the circumstances of the incident. Police urged witnesses or anyone with CCTV or phone footage to come forward, with Crimestoppers available for anonymous reports.

Emergency services blocked Halesowen High Street, causing major disruption, delays for motorists and diverted bus routes, while authorities advised drivers to avoid the area and allow extra travel time as police prepared to issue further information.

A family-run petrol station in Studley recovered £80 after two motorists left without paying, following a CCTV appeal that prompted community members to identify the individuals involved. The business emphasised that it cannot absorb such losses and used the incident to warn potential offenders that they will be publicly identified. Staff noted the strong support from the Studley community during a period when rising costs have created additional financial strain.

Diners and staff at Al-Qamar restaurant in Balsall Heath intervened to shield a pregnant woman who fled inside after being assaulted by a man with a baseball bat. The attacker returned with a knife before being driven away, and police later confirmed the woman suffered a serious arm injury. Officers are reviewing CCTV and appealing for information.

A deer was seen running along Stourbridge High Street, surprising shoppers before being safely contained with help from the public and Stourbridge Police. Officers prevented it from reaching the ring road and secured it in a courtyard to await a vet.

A Solihull MP urged the BBC to correct an article that placed the National Exhibition Centre in Birmingham while covering Prince Harry’s visit for the Invictus Games. He argued that the NEC, and therefore the 2027 Games, are located in Solihull despite the event’s official Birmingham branding. Emphasising the venue’s significance to the borough and the importance of accurate reporting, he requested the BBC amend its wording to properly acknowledge Solihull as host.

Birmingham Moor Street Station was temporarily renamed Bellingham Moor Street by Chiltern Railways in support of Jude Bellingham and the England football team ahead of the World Cup semi-final against Argentina. The new signage will stay in place as long as England remain in the tournament. Bellingham’s strong local ties and prominence in the national team are highlighted, alongside other displays of support across the region.

A driver in his 20s died after his car crashed into railings in Birmingham city centre in the early morning hours. Paramedics administered advanced life support but were unable to save him. A female passenger suffered potentially serious injuries and was taken to Queen Elizabeth Hospital. Emergency services responded within minutes, with both West Midlands Ambulance Service and West Midlands Police confirming details of the incident and their response timeline.

A serious single‑car collision in Birmingham city centre closed Great Charles Street Queensway and St Chads Queensway, causing significant delays across major routes including the A38 and the A4540 ring road. West Midlands Police launched an investigation after being called at 2.35am, leading to full and partial closures throughout the morning. St Chad’s Tunnel was also shut, and several bus services faced disruption. The inbound carriageway reopened gradually, with all lanes fully reopened by mid‑morning as traffic began to ease.

A prohibition‑style bar in Bromsgrove, The Dry Spy, will close on September 14, 2026, after four years due to rising operational costs. Management thanked staff and customers, pledged to honour existing bookings, and encouraged continued support for local independent hospitality businesses.

A Solihull pub, The Olton Tavern, will show England’s late-night World Cup quarter-final against Norway in its beer garden but cannot play amplified commentary due to licensing restrictions, prompting it to urge fans to bring headphones and tune in to the BBC. High temperatures are expected to make outdoor viewing popular as the match kicks off at 10pm and could extend past midnight.

A 20-year-old passenger, Kristian Danielov, died after Corey Brown crashed a car in Oldbury and fled the scene. Danielov succumbed to his injuries nine days later. His family shared emotional tributes, describing him as energetic and deeply loved. Brown, 20, received a 10‑year prison sentence at Wolverhampton Crown Court. Police stated the case highlights the devastating consequences of dangerous driving.

Prince Harry’s visit to the NEC in Birmingham to mark the one-year countdown to the 2027 Invictus Games was briefly disrupted by a car alarm but the event continued without issue. He participated in several sports demonstrations and was scheduled to speak alongside MP and veteran Al Carns. The trip marked his second day in the city, following a visit to Birmingham Children’s Hospital, while speculation continued about whether Meghan and their children might join him during his UK stay.

Four fire crews responded to a fire on Coppice View Way in Streetly, prompting West Midlands Fire Service to advise the public to avoid the area. The cause of the incident is unknown, and its proximity to Sutton Park Primary School has not been confirmed. Updates are expected as more information becomes available.

A broken-down train at Old Hill caused major delays between Snow Hill and Kidderminster, forcing passengers to divert to Birmingham Moor Street and creating significant congestion and platform changes. Travellers reported long waits, a lack of West Midlands Railway services, and reliance on Chiltern Railways and rail replacement buses. Some routes faced cancellations, and passengers were advised to check travel information due to ongoing disruption.

Police are investigating after a van was deliberately driven into pedestrians at the junction of Kingstanding Road and Dyas Road in Birmingham on May 23. No serious injuries were reported, and authorities believe the incident was targeted rather than random. Officers are appealing for information from anyone who may know more about what happened or the circumstances leading up to the event.

Bromsgrove Sporting FC warned fans about circulating scam tickets ahead of England’s World Cup quarter-final against Norway, noting the outdoor fan zone had sold out quickly through its official waitlist. The club urged supporters not to buy from third‑party sellers and highlighted that indoor fan zone tickets remain available following strong attendance during previous matches.

Police arrested a 24-year-old man after seizing firearms and knives during a warrant at a Walsall property, later confirmed as non‑viable following forensic checks. The suspect remains in custody on suspicion of possessing offensive weapons and a firearm. The operation formed part of Operation Target, aimed at tackling serious and organised crime in the region.

A 49-year-old man from Walsall, Terry Langley, has been charged with attempted murder and multiple burglary-related offences following a stabbing in Norton Canes that left a woman seriously injured. He remains in police custody and is due to appear at the North Staffordshire Justice Centre. The victim is in serious but stable condition in hospital.

A motorbike rider suffered life‑changing leg injuries in a collision with a car on Cooks Lane in Kingshurst, Solihull. The driver remained at the scene and assisted police, while investigators review CCTV and seek witnesses or dashcam footage. Police request anyone with information to contact the Serious Collision Investigation Unit.

A Birmingham bar, Luna Springs in Digbeth, announced a strict dress code for fans attending its England versus Mexico World Cup screening, allowing only England international shirts and prohibiting domestic club shirts, sportswear and certain accessories. The venue highlighted limited remaining tickets, early-entry perks and additional match screenings, with entry restrictions enforced alongside ID requirements.

Police released new images of 47-year-old Paul Hughes, missing from Leominster and believed to have travelled to Birmingham. Hughes was last seen on July 1, with authorities urging anyone with information to call 999 and quote reference 135i of July 4.

A home on Foley Road in Birmingham was targeted by gunfire for the second time in a week, with shots fired from a vehicle in the early hours of July 4. No injuries were reported, and the family involved has been safeguarded. West Midlands Police are reviewing CCTV, conducting door‑to‑door enquiries and maintaining an increased presence in the area while appealing for information through 101 or Crimestoppers.

Police are seeking to identify a man after an elderly woman in Birmingham was targeted in a courier fraud and her bank cards were later used in city centre shops. West Midlands Police released images of the suspect and appealed for information, urging the public to contact them or Crimestoppers with any leads.

Police secured a three‑month closure order for The Hair Shop in Wolverhampton after reports of criminal and drug‑related activity, including the discovery of a concealed storeroom containing suspected cannabis. Two men were arrested and remain on bail as investigations continue. Authorities say the action aims to reduce crime, protect young people from harmful products, and deter further illegal activity.

A 14-year-old girl from Great Barr with Tetralogy of Fallot, who survived major heart surgeries as a baby, is preparing to join the prestigious Tring Park School for the Performing Arts. Her mother has launched a fundraiser to help cover the £15,000 annual fees, praising her daughter's exceptional talent and determination. The teen hopes to pursue dance and musical theatre, expressing gratitude to anyone who supports her ambitions.

A man was sentenced to six months in prison after attempting to steal a car in Birmingham city centre and being found with a large collection of suspected stolen sunglasses. Police recovered the victim’s belongings and later discovered numerous additional pairs at his home, prompting an appeal for owners to come forward. Authorities provided details for contacting them to reclaim the items.

Police are investigating a fire that damaged a property on Stockfield Road in Yardley and are reviewing CCTV while appealing for witnesses. No injuries were reported, and the public is asked to provide information via 101 with the provided reference number or anonymously through Crimestoppers.

A man involved in a struggle with police on Soho Road in Handsworth used a dropped baton to strike an officer in the face before fleeing on a bicycle. The assaulted officer was treated in hospital and later discharged. West Midlands Police have issued an appeal for information on 30‑year‑old Mahroy Stephenson, who is wanted on suspicion of causing grievous bodily harm with intent, urging the public to contact police or Crimestoppers with any details.

An American academic living in Birmingham describes why the city feels like home after twelve years, praising its manageable size, diversity, lifestyle, and accessible healthcare. He contrasts the UK and US on transportation, food, work-life balance, and healthcare costs, and notes the political division in the United States, particularly around Donald Trump. Though he misses some American foods, he prefers life in Birmingham and sees little likelihood of returning to the US, while remaining open to future involvement in local politics.

Police in Rugby arrested Ardian Beqiri and Kadri Kaja after detectives observed a drug deal involving their parked Nissan. A search found multiple cocaine deal bags, cannabis, digital scales and a drug debt list. Beqiri received a two‑year sentence for involvement in cocaine supply, while Kaja was jailed for three years for possession with intent to supply. Authorities emphasised continued vigilance against local drug dealing.

Police are seeking 30-year-old Mahroy Stephenson from Bartley Green after an officer suffered a head injury during an assault on Soho Road. The officer was treated in hospital and discharged. Stephenson is also wanted in connection with a separate assault on June 21. Authorities urge anyone with information to contact police or Crimestoppers.

Alexander Ali Baba, a 66‑year‑old from Morden, was jailed for running an illegal money‑lending operation that issued more than £4.7 million in loans with interest rates reaching over 100%. Operating from his home and grocery store between 2020 and 2025, he kept informal records, imposed steep penalties, and intimidated borrowers. Investigators uncovered extensive banking activity and cash stored in envelopes. Kingston upon Thames Crown Court sentenced him to 12 months in prison, with the IMLT condemning the predatory scheme and urging other victims of illegal lenders to seek support.

Schools in the Midlands have taken contrasting approaches to the 1am England–Mexico World Cup match, with Higham Lane School allowing a late start while Nuneaton Academy insists on normal attendance. Higham Lane aims to balance students’ desire to watch the game with adequate rest, whereas Nuneaton Academy stresses routine, legal attendance requirements and high expectations, offering morning activities without altering start times.

Several Birmingham pubs apologised to customers after deciding not to show England’s 1am World Cup match against Mexico, citing company policy, consultation with authorities, and consideration for local residents. The Baldwin Arms attributed the decision to Hungry Horse, while another Hall Green pub also confirmed it would not stay open late. Keir Starmer’s decision allowing pubs to choose whether to broadcast the match was noted, but local venues ultimately opted against extending hours.

A former funeral parlour in Bearwood, previously home to Roberts & Brain Funeral Directors, is set for auction with a guide price of £495,000. The mixed-use property includes extensive commercial space across two floors and three self-contained flats requiring refurbishment. Bond Wolfe will auction the freehold site on July 9, with offers above the guide price considered beforehand. The building is located near Bearwood Road with good transport links, and prospective buyers are advised to consult Sandwell Council regarding potential redevelopment plans.

Police searched Lalibela Groceries in Whitmore Reans, Wolverhampton, recovering a substantial amount of suspected cannabis hidden in an oven and arresting a 44‑year‑old man on suspicion of possession with intent to supply. Serious Organised Crime officers and Trading Standards conducted the operation, and enquiries remain ongoing, with authorities urging the public to report suspicious activity.

A man in his 20s was left with significant head injuries after being struck with a metal pole on Wych Road in Droitwich. Police arrested a 50‑year‑old woman and three 15‑year‑old boys on suspicion of assault, and all four are currently on bail. Investigators are appealing for witnesses and any available CCTV, dashcam or phone footage. Information can be provided directly to police or anonymously through Crimestoppers.

A Reform UK councillor, Tuli Zefi, intervened in a violent incident in Oldbury and provided first aid to a 19-year-old who had been stabbed after a street disorder. He attempted to stop the bleeding and remained with the victim until emergency services arrived. The teenager is in life-threatening condition and undergoing surgery. Zefi used the incident to call for stronger action against knife crime and urged young people to avoid violence. Police are appealing for information related to the attack.

A 19-year-old was taken to hospital with life-threatening injuries after being stabbed during an altercation between teenagers on Market Street in Oldbury. Police cordoned off Church Street, diverted buses and maintained a presence to reassure residents while urging witnesses to come forward. Crimestoppers was provided as an anonymous reporting option as the investigation continues.

A 19‑year‑old suffered life‑threatening injuries after a stabbing on Market Street in Oldbury, prompting police to seal off Church Street and launch an investigation. West Midlands Police remain at the scene, appealing for information and reassuring residents as enquiries continue. The incident has caused significant disruption, including diverted bus services and temporary business closures.

Inspectors gave the Medicine Bakery concession inside Birmingham’s Selfridges a two‑out‑of‑five food‑hygiene rating due to cleanliness and facility‑condition issues, although food handling and safety management were rated good. The company and Selfridges stated that corrective measures are underway to meet required standards, while the bakery’s other locations currently hold passing scores.

A Birmingham sports bar, BOX in Brindleyplace, launched a promotion offering one free drink per week until July 2027 for up to five customers who legally change their name to Harry Kane via Deed Poll. Entrants must be over 18, provide verified documentation, and follow strict fraud-prevention rules. The offer applies to draught beer and remains open until England’s final match of the tournament, with BOX reserving the right to withdraw the promotion if misuse is suspected.

Titash restaurant in Sheldon was named Restaurant of the Year at the British Curry Championships, highlighting its long-standing popularity and reputation that draws customers from across the UK. Operated by Athik and Jameel Ali, the restaurant’s success was attributed to decades of dedication and strong community support. Other Birmingham curry establishments, including Pushkar and Chutney Express Takeaway, also received national recognition.

A long-established Halesowen pub, The Round of Beef, will close on August 2 after 11 years, with owners Lisa Thompson and Dean Worton thanking customers and inviting them to visit during the final weeks. The pub plans a farewell party as staff reflect on the friendships and community ties formed during their tenure.

A long‑serving Birmingham shop owner, John Horwood, retired after more than fifty years at Kennedy's MICA Hardware in Rubery, prompting widespread messages of appreciation from customers and former colleagues. Horwood, who joined the store in 1972 and became its owner in 1989, confirmed the handover to new owners and thanked the community for its support. His retirement sparked tributes recalling his dedication, impact on the community and the shop’s longstanding local presence.

A mother seeks justice after her son Jack Ryan was killed by speeding driver Rashad Ali, who fled to Pakistan before trial and has never served his sentence. The family is campaigning for a change in bail laws requiring defendants accused of serious offences to surrender their passports. Ali was convicted in absentia and believed to be living abroad, prompting frustration and calls for reform from Ryan’s relatives, who argue the current system allows offenders to evade accountability.