Ross Marshall

Fourteen-year-old Beau Croucher from Portsmouth died after being struck in a bus collision at The Hard. His family described him as their “absolute world” and remembered his intelligence, humour, love of friends and family, and devotion to Portsmouth F.C. The 39-year-old bus driver was arrested on suspicion of causing serious injury by dangerous driving and released on bail until November 17 while police continue investigating and seek witness, dashcam and CCTV evidence.

Krystian Szymanski, 42, was sentenced at Southampton Crown Court to four years and two months in prison after pleading guilty to four residential burglaries committed during a six-month spree across Southampton and Exeter. He broke into homes while residents were away and stole valuables including a life-sized Dobby statue, jewellery, military medals, electronics and other personal belongings; more than £24,000 worth of items were taken from one property. Two additional burglaries and two fraud offences were also considered by the court. Victim statements described lasting feelings of violation, anxiety and insecurity, while Detective Sergeant Nicola Rose said the sentence reflected the Western Area Crime Team’s efforts to pursue residential burglars.

The New Forest heathland wildfire, which began near Poulner Hill on August 9 after a vehicle fire, has consumed more than 85 million litres of water and injured three firefighters. A reduced firefighting presence is searching for hotspots, while the A31 remains closed between Ringwood and Ower because of fire damage and fencing repairs. More than 100 hectares of heathland has been destroyed, affecting heather, gorse, pillwort, bogland, seed banks and ancient trees. Conservationists have rescued adders, sand lizards and slow worms, and Forestry England is developing restoration plans that could take decades to achieve full ecological recovery.

Mansbridge Road in Southampton was temporarily closed after suspected unexploded ordnance was found in the River Itchen near the White Swan pub. Police, fire and rescue crews, and Explosive Ordnance Disposal specialists assessed the item while motorists were advised to avoid the area. A loud bang was later heard shortly after the road reopened, apparently linked to the disposal of the suspected ordnance.

A man, Luiz Felipe Saldanha de Souza, was charged after Hampshire Constabulary officers allegedly found 13 bags of suspected cocaine in a Volvo stopped on Cobbett Road in Southampton. A subsequent search of an address in Waterloo Road reportedly uncovered more suspected cocaine, 18 bags containing powder and almost £2,500 in cash. The 32-year-old from Bromley was charged with two counts of possessing cocaine with intent to supply, possessing criminal property and possessing a false identity document. He was remanded in custody, with his next appearance at Southampton Crown Court scheduled for September 17.

Photographer Hang Ross has warned visitors to take extra care in the New Forest after hot, dry weather increased fire risk. The warning follows a blaze on New Forest heathland that began with a van fire on the A31 and burned for 10 days. Forestry England says hundreds of acres were affected and parts of the forest may take years to fully recover.

Firefighters attended woodland off Bracken Road in North Baddesley three times over four days after repeated fires broke out. Crews from several Hampshire stations tackled a blaze covering about 100 by 50 metres and later returned to extinguish hotspots. Nearby residents feared the flames could spread to their homes and were advised to keep hosepipes ready, while one resident urged families to warn children about the danger of starting fires.

Fire crews attended a reported fire at a parade of shops on Library Road in Totton after smoke was seen coming from a window above the shops, near the Savers supermarket. Three fire engines and police were present, and the incident was brought under control quickly. An eyewitness said residents appeared to have escaped safely; the fire and rescue service had not yet provided further information.

Police in Hedge End detained a rider and seized a converted e-bike after it was allegedly caught speeding. Hampshire police warned that modified e-bikes can reach dangerous speeds and pose risks to riders and the public. Officers reminded users that legal e-bikes must have motors no more powerful than 250 watts and must cut out at 15.5 mph; faster or modified bikes are treated as motor vehicles requiring registration, tax and insurance.

Southern Water worked overnight to address technical failures and blocked pipework at Otterbourne Water Supply Works, which had caused reservoir levels, including at Yew Hill, to fall and threatened supplies to tens of thousands of homes. The company deployed tankers, bottled-water stations and deliveries to vulnerable customers, while saying all customers remained supplied and reservoir levels were recovering. Repairs to the underlying fault remain ongoing, and the company warned that the serious incident could deteriorate. Southern Water is also carrying out an £350 million, eight-year infrastructure improvement programme at Otterbourne and related sites across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight.

A driver in Fareham was arrested after police responding to a suspected burglary allegedly saw the vehicle weaving between parked cars and travelling along narrow roads. The driver reportedly failed a roadside breath test at 70 micrograms of alcohol per 100 millilitres of breath, twice the legal limit, and a later custody sample recorded 81 micrograms. The driver is due to appear in court on alleged drink-driving and driving without valid motor insurance charges.

Police attended Redbridge Causeway at about 9:20 p.m. on Saturday, August 15, after reports of an incident involving a group of teenagers. Traffic was temporarily held while officers addressed a welfare concern involving a 16-year-old boy. Police said advice was given to the boy and his parents, after which the group left the area.

Firefighters have fully surrounded a wildfire near the A31 in the New Forest after seven nights of battling the blaze, but the fire remains active. Crews are extinguishing hotspots and building a wet line to prevent further spread. Extremely dry heathland, underground-smouldering peat, remote terrain and limited water access continue to complicate the operation, and the public has been warned to avoid the operational area.

Marwell Zoo has intensified its search for Samba, a capybara that escaped from a temporary enclosure on March 17, after receiving photographic evidence of a possible sighting near the area. The zoo has deployed additional cameras and food traps, while continuing to seek information from the public. Samba’s sister Tango was recaptured, but Samba remains missing; her last confirmed sighting was near the River Itchen at Colden Common on March 22.

The New Forest wildfire has entered its seventh day, with firefighters spending nearly 10,000 hours tackling hotspots across about 1.6 square kilometres of heathland. Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service has deployed 169 appliances from 93 stations, while officials warn that several more days of work remain. The A31 is closed between Ringwood and the M27 for repairs and is not expected to reopen until at least August 20, causing congestion and diversions across the New Forest. Roads, paths and car parks remain closed, local businesses are experiencing financial losses, and the public has been urged to avoid all forms of outdoor fire and support the temporary ban on disposable barbecues.

Photographs capture a partial solar eclipse observed across Hampshire, where the Moon covered about 92% of the Sun at the event’s Southampton maximum around 7:14 p.m. Residents watched from parks, beaches and other open spaces.

Hundreds of people gathered at Mayflower Park in Southampton to watch a solar eclipse, bringing picnic equipment, eclipse glasses and astronomy gear. Families and astronomy enthusiasts described the event as a memorable opportunity to observe the Moon crossing the Sun, while James Oliver demonstrated a Celestron NexStar SE telescope equipped with a solar filter. The eclipse was visible from about 6:15 p.m. to 8:10 p.m., although some attendees were surprised that the sky did not become much darker.

Southampton residents will be able to see a partial solar eclipse, with approximately 92% of the Sun covered by the Moon. The eclipse will begin at 6:18pm, reach its maximum at about 7:14pm, and end around 8:07pm. Viewers should choose an unobstructed west-facing location and must not look directly at the Sun; certified eclipse glasses or a pinhole projector should be used to prevent irreversible eye damage.

A New Forest fire that began when a vehicle caught fire near Poulner Hill has affected approximately 400 acres, equivalent to more than 300 football pitches. Firefighters have battled hotspots and flare-ups for a fourth day amid temperatures of around 30°C and continuing hot, dry weather. The A31 remains closed in both directions between Ower and Ringwood while crews work to contain the blaze.

The A31 remains closed in both directions through the New Forest, with no estimated reopening time as firefighters continue tackling a blaze that began with a vehicle fire and spread into Bratley Wood and surrounding heathland. More than 100 hectares have been affected, nearby car parks are closed, and motorists are being advised to avoid the area and follow official diversion routes.

A major fire that began with a vehicle blaze on the A31 spread into Bratley Wood and affected more than 100 hectares of the New Forest, an area equivalent to about 140 football pitches. More than 50 firefighters responded to the challenging incident. Forestry England is supporting emergency services, while Bratley View, the Canadian Memorial and Bolderwood car parks are closed for the week and visitors are urged to avoid the area and keep access routes clear.

Three New Forest car parks—Bratley View, Canadian War Memorial and Bolderwood—remain closed while emergency services tackle an active heathland wildfire near Ringwood and the A31. Forestry England is supporting responders and cutting additional fire breaks, while warning drivers about diversions, road closures and animals near roads. The closures will remain until the area is safe for visitors.

A man died after falling from the Marlands shopping centre car park in Southampton. Emergency services attended Western Esplanade at around 3:44 p.m., but he was pronounced dead at the scene. His next of kin have been informed, and police are preparing a file for the coroner while investigating the circumstances of the fall.

A 45-year-old Southampton man was found dead at a block of flats on Weston Lane after police responded to reports of an assault. A 23-year-old woman from Bournemouth and a 54-year-old man from Southampton were arrested on suspicion of murder and remained in custody. Forensic officers and detectives continued examining the scene and conducting door-to-door inquiries, while police said no further details about the circumstances of the death were available.

Southampton City Council Trading Standards officers, working with police, seized an estimated £250,000 of illegal and unsafe goods during raids on Euro Mini Mart and American Oriental Candy & Vape on Swaythling High Street. The haul included illicit cigarettes, illegal oversized disposable vapes and counterfeit electrical goods, cosmetics, toys and clothing. The council said the operation aims to protect consumers, support legitimate businesses and disrupt criminal activity, while encouraging residents to report suspected illegal sales.

The A31 remains closed in both directions near Poulner Hill after a vehicle fire spread into the central reservation and surrounding New Forest heathland. Ten fire engines and ten off-road vehicles remained at the scene, while a high-volume pumping system was installed across Ringwood to supply water. Motorists were urged to avoid the area, postpone non-essential journeys and follow diversion signs because alternative routes through Lyndhurst and Fordingbridge were heavily congested. No properties had been evacuated, and no reopening time had been confirmed.

Hampshire Constabulary is rolling out SmartTag handheld devices to neighbourhood policing teams in northern and western Southampton to combat antisocial use of e-bikes, e-scooters and motorcycles. The device sprays a traceable forensic solution from up to ten metres away, allowing officers to mark riders and potentially reduce the need for close physical confrontation. The areas were prioritised because of their larger green spaces, including Lords Hill Woods and the Outdoor Sports Centre, where irresponsible riding has been reported.

A community speed watch team recorded 59 speeding motorists on Hocombe Road in Chandler's Ford during a single hour on August 3, its busiest hour since the group was founded 11 years ago. All vehicles were traveling at least 35mph in a 30mph zone; 14 exceeded 40mph, with the fastest recorded at 48mph. Details are passed to police, who may issue warning letters intended to improve road safety.

Southampton City Council apologised for delayed bin collections caused by a shortage of qualified HGV drivers, staff sickness and unreliable vehicles. Food and general waste collections have been prioritised because of hygiene and public-health concerns, while additional Saturday rounds are being used to clear the backlog. Residents with missed glass collections have been asked to leave their boxes out or use recycling banks.

Raphael Temitope Adebanjo and Roland Fyinfolu Ogundare were convicted of targeting 11 victims across the UK through bank-impersonation scams. After obtaining a Winchester woman’s bank card and PIN, they used it to buy Apple products and McDonald’s meals at Southampton’s Westquay, while a John Lewis transaction failed. Police linked the men through CCTV and searches that uncovered false identity documents and victims’ financial information. Ogundare was sentenced to 30 months in prison, while Adebanjo received a nine-month suspended sentence and 150 hours of unpaid work.

Explora III, the third ship from luxury cruise line Explora Journeys, is scheduled to visit Southampton on August 17, 2026, shortly after entering service. The LNG-powered vessel is the largest in the line’s fleet so far, accommodating about 900 guests in 461 ocean-facing suites with approximately 470 crew members. Its facilities include multiple pools, new dining venues, 12 bars and lounges, a large wellness area, sports facilities and dedicated spaces for children and teenagers. After its Southampton visit, the ship will operate European itineraries including Northern Europe, Iceland and Greenland.

A 15-year-old boy and a 62-year-old man were arrested after two police officers were allegedly assaulted while responding to reports of people entering a derelict building near Hanover Buildings and Above Bar Street in Southampton. The teenager faces suspicion of assaulting and obstructing police and damaging a police radio, while the older man is suspected of assaulting and obstructing officers. Both remained in custody, and video of the arrests circulated on social media.

Mohamed Caynab, 20, was sentenced to 21 months in prison suspended after pleading guilty to being concerned in the supply of a Class A drug. Police found up to £40,000 worth of crack cocaine and heroin, both prepared for sale and in uncut form, at a Northumberland Road property in Southampton's St Mary's area. Caynab said he had been asked to check the property after falling into drug debt. The drugs will be destroyed, and the case forms part of the Building a Brighter Future project involving Hampshire Constabulary, Southampton City Council and other agencies to combat drug crime, violence and anti-social behaviour.

Hampshire Constabulary is investigating an alleged racist verbal assault on a taxi driver during a journey from the Brook Avenue area of Warsash. Police released a description and image of a man they believe may assist their inquiry and asked witnesses or anyone who recognises him to contact police or Crimestoppers.

Motorists travelling into Southampton are warned to expect major delays because of two Southern Water projects. The A3057 Romsey Road at Nursling is closed between Upton Lane and the M271 roundabout after a burst water main, with repairs expected to continue until August 7. Bassett Avenue is also due to close southbound between Chilworth Roundabout and Memorial Roundabout from August 3 to August 16 for carriageway reconstruction and resurfacing. Hampshire County Council leader Nick Adams-King advised drivers to plan ahead, noting that the work is taking place during the school holidays when traffic is generally lighter.

Benjamin Lewis, 48, of Totton, pleaded guilty to five counts of religiously aggravated intentional harassment, alarm or distress and two theft charges after leaving dead lambs and deer remains at churches, a mental health facility and road signs across the New Forest. The incidents caused fear and distress among vulnerable residents, farmers and schoolchildren. Police found animal blood, satanic items, ritual notes and vampire-related material in his vehicle and home. A psychiatrist said Lewis has autism, mixed personality disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder and learning difficulties, along with a longstanding fascination with vampirism. Southampton Crown Court imposed a hospital order with restrictions, requiring his detention for treatment until a mental health tribunal or the Justice Secretary authorizes release.

During a community speed-watch session in Chandler's Ford, volunteers recorded an e-scooter travelling at 33 mph and a car travelling at 46 mph in a 30 mph zone. The Chandler's Ford Community Speed Watch team said it is increasingly concerned about e-bikes on local roads and passes details of speeding vehicles to Hampshire Police.

Drivers running red lights at Southampton’s Woodmill Bridge may be worsening rush-hour congestion by preventing traffic from clearing and disrupting the demand-responsive signal system. Southampton City Council transport officers and engineers say the signals are operating as designed to prioritize the busiest traffic direction, rather than eliminate congestion. The system uses radar and cameras to adjust green-light timings, while pedestrian-crossing timings and detection equipment have also been reviewed following residents’ complaints.

Drivers using the M27 near Junction 5 are warned of two overnight westbound closures in August for drainage and maintenance works. The first is scheduled from 10 p.m. on August 10 to 7 a.m. on August 11, and the second from 10 p.m. on August 21 to 7 a.m. on August 22. Motorists are advised to plan ahead, allow extra journey time, and follow diversion signs.

Bluestar will introduce routes 6 and 26 and extend route 16 from August 30, creating new connections between Bitterne, Townhill Park, Southampton city centre, Southampton General Hospital and surrounding communities. Daytime services along Peartree Avenue will run every 30 minutes, while route 26 will operate hourly through Hedge End, Botley and Whiteley. The Bitterne Hoppa shopping service will be withdrawn, although residents will retain access through the revised Bluestar network. New timetables and route maps will be issued before the changes take effect.

Around 50 Hampshire Resistance supporters marched through Gosport to protest planned upgrades to the Haslar Immigration Removal Centre, while roughly 50 Gosport Together members held a counter-demonstration supporting refugees and asylum seekers. Tensions rose when the groups met, with shouting and one protester briefly moving behind the police line to film the counter-protest, but officers kept the groups apart and prevented major disorder. Councillor Lesley Meenaghan praised the police response, while Hampshire Resistance members declined to comment.

Two Southern Water roadwork projects are expected to disrupt routes into Southampton over a two-week period. The A3057 Romsey Road at Nursling is closed after a burst water main left some homes without water, while Bassett Avenue will close southbound for rebuilding and resurfacing following earlier repairs. Hampshire County Council leader Nick Adams-King urged motorists to follow diversions and allow extra travel time. Residents reported that water supplies were gradually returning, although some households still faced low pressure or no water, and warned that overlapping closures could create significant congestion and affect vulnerable neighbours and nearby businesses.

Newly qualified police dog Zara helped Hampshire police locate four men hiding inside a derelict building in Gosport during one of her first operational shifts. After completing 13 weeks of initial training, Zara quickly tracked down the men, whom officers then identified and processed. The force praised her work and reminded the public not to approach her without permission from her handler.

Southampton City Council says Above Bar Street and associated roads are due to reopen by 4pm on Monday, August 3, after around two months of roadworks, closures and traffic diversions. The project included road improvements and utility repairs carried out collaboratively with SSEN and Southern Water to avoid multiple closures. Localised supporting work will continue for a further two weeks after reopening.

A boat was completely destroyed by fire near Gilkicker Point off Gosport after emergency services received multiple calls shortly after midday on Saturday. Around 20 firefighters from several stations, supported by HM Coastguard, extinguished the blaze by 1:50 p.m. Eyewitnesses described rapidly thickening smoke and visible flames close to shore. No injuries were reported, and the cause of the fire remains unconfirmed.

Plans submitted to Southampton City Council propose converting the vacant upper floors of the former Halifax offices at 400–402 Bitterne Road into two three-bedroom flats. The ground floor already has permission for conversion into a restaurant, while the proposed homes would retain the building’s external appearance and include parking, cycle storage and refuse-management provisions. The council will decide whether the scheme meets prior-approval requirements.

Councillor David Harrison warned visitors about the heightened wildfire risk in the New Forest after finding evidence of a campfire or disposable barbecue near Bramble Hill car park. Dry weather has increased the threat to ancient woodland, heathland, wildlife, homes and livestock. Visitors were urged not to light fires or use disposable barbecues in the open forest, and anyone who accidentally starts a fire was advised to call 999 immediately.

Police in Southampton are preparing to deploy SmartTag, a handheld device that sprays a traceable forensic solution at vehicles from up to 10 metres away. Hampshire Constabulary says the technology will help link suspects using e-bikes, e-scooters or motorcycles to crime scenes while reducing the need for close physical confrontation. The rollout is part of wider efforts to address complaints about dangerous or inappropriate riding in public spaces.

Around 100 bikers joined a funeral procession for 20-year-old Eastleigh motorcyclist Cieran Anthony Bass, escorting his coffin from Chandler’s Ford through Southampton past the crash site and on to Wessex Vale Crematorium in Hedge End. Bass collided with a silver Nissan Qashqai on June 20 and died at Southampton General Hospital on June 26 from a severe brain injury. His family thanked supporters and fundraiser organiser Brandon Cheal, whose efforts helped fund the funeral and a memorial garden. An inquest opened at Winchester Coroner’s Court and is due to resume next July.

Revised plans submitted by Alliance Rail, operating as Grand Union Trains, could reopen Marchwood station and launch rail services to Southampton and London Waterloo from 2027. The proposal includes five daily return London services, hourly Marchwood-Southampton trains and additional connections to Eastleigh. Supporters say the scheme could ease congestion on the A326 and create about 80 jobs, while Councillor Richard Young warns that level-crossing closures and commuter parking in residential roads must be addressed. The Office for Rail and Road is expected to decide on the application in late 2026 or early 2027, with possible future extensions toward Hythe and Fawley.

KJ's Cafe in Marchwood, Hampshire, has permanently closed after its owners said circumstances beyond their control left them with no choice. The independent café served breakfasts, lunches, sandwiches, and hot and cold drinks, and thanked customers, friends, and staff for their support over the years.

Three people, including a four-year-old child, were injured in a serious collision on Lordswood Road in Southampton involving an orange MG 4 and a silver Nissan Qashqai. The drivers, a man in his 30s and a man in his 70s, suffered serious injuries, while the child sustained minor injuries. Police are appealing for witnesses and dashcam footage, citing reference 44260360533.

A Southampton-based company, SkyBound, is remotely operating an automated drone from Woolston to help manage incidents at London Waterloo. Launched with South Western Railway and Network Rail Wessex, the drone uses high-resolution and thermal cameras to detect trespassers, inspect infrastructure and provide live intelligence to railway teams, potentially reducing delays and improving safety. The Waterloo deployment is intended to be the first in a wider network covering locations including Clapham Junction, New Malden and Walton-on-Thames.

Visitors have been warned to avoid two fishing lakes at Lakeside in Eastleigh after a potentially harmful blue-green algal bloom was found. Eastleigh Borough Council and the Environment Agency said exposure can cause skin, eye, and gastrointestinal symptoms in people and can be especially dangerous to dogs, for which contact should be treated as a veterinary emergency. Warning signs have been installed, while the nearby water sports lake remains clear but continues to be tested.

Southern Water says emergency sewer repairs on Shirley High Street in Southampton are expected to finish ahead of schedule on August 7, after five months of traffic disruption. Damaged sections of a Victorian brick sewer have been replaced, with equipment removal and carriageway reinstatement remaining. Local traders say closures, congestion, parking problems and disrupted bus services caused major losses, including an estimated 40% reduction in footfall and a 30% fall in takings for one business.

Asa William Henegan, 44, of Southampton, has been charged with 11 alleged shop thefts from the Asda supermarket on Redbridge Road. Police say more than £1,200 worth of electronic devices, household goods and food were stolen between June 15 and July 12. Henegan has been released on bail and is due to appear before Southampton Magistrates' Court.

Electricity works on Mortimers Lane near St Francis Animal Welfare in Fair Oak are scheduled from August 3 to August 11. Temporary traffic lights will operate between 8am and 5pm, while residents will retain access to their properties. Eastleigh borough councillor Steve Broomfield highlighted the expected disruption and criticised utility companies’ broad discretion over work schedules.

Marc James Mould, 44, of Southampton, has been charged with 15 offences following alleged thefts of electrical appliances and food from an Asda store on Redbridge Road in June and July. The charges include five shoplifting offences, five breaches of a Criminal Behaviour Order and five breaches of court bail. He is due to appear at Southampton Magistrates' Court on August 14.

Eight cruise ships are scheduled to visit Southampton over the weekend, with four arriving on Saturday, August 1, and four more expected on Sunday, August 2. Celebrity Apex, Ventura, Iona and Sky Princess are due on Saturday, while Arvia, Liberty of the Seas, Majestic Princess and Norwegian Star are scheduled for Sunday, though their arrival and departure times have not been confirmed. Thousands of passengers and crew are expected, and motorists have been warned of heavier traffic around the docks.

Police are investigating reports that a group of youths smashed glass bottles and threw bricks and bottles at Tops Day Nursery on Heather Road in Fawley, near Southampton. Eyewitness video appears to show four boys and one girl involved before the group left after members of the public confronted them. Police have not confirmed whether the building was damaged, and no arrests have been made.

The Disney Dream, which sails from Southampton, received a perfect score of 100 in a May 2, 2026 inspection by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Vessel Sanitation Program. Inspectors nevertheless found fruit flies and house flies in food preparation areas, leaking drinks machines, bare-hand contact with ready-to-eat food, standing water, damaged flooring, dishwashing ventilation problems, and weaknesses in records concerning vomiting incidents and an ill crew member. Several issues were corrected immediately, and the ship still received the maximum score under the program.

Police and other emergency services attended a collision between a car and a motorbike on the M27 during the evening rush hour. Hampshire Police said the crash was reported at 5:26 p.m. and resulted in minor injuries; no further details about those involved or the effect on traffic were released.

A former Victorian reservoir near Bishop’s Waltham, known as The Round House, is being marketed for £3 million. The circular property offers nearly 5,000 square feet of living space across 12.5 acres, including a glass atrium, a large living room, four bedrooms, a self-contained annexe, a luxury kitchen with an Aga, a heated pool, gardens, paddocks and an orchard. It is within driving distance of Winchester, Southampton and Portsmouth.

Drivers in Romsey are warned to expect disruption this week because of multiple roadworks, temporary traffic lights and overnight road closures. Hampshire County Council, Openreach and SGN are carrying out work on routes including Belbins, Braishfield Road, Sandy Lane, Cupernham Lane, Greatbridge Road and Cherville Street, while additional traffic controls affect the A27/A3090 junction, Holybourne Road, Halterworth Lane and Southampton Road.

A petition calls on Southampton City Council to install speed bumps or other traffic-calming measures on Harrison Road in Swaythling. Organizers say cars, motorbikes and e-bikes use the road as a cut-through and travel at unsafe speeds, creating risks for children, cats and residents near a local school. Councillor Lorna Fielker supports the campaign and says speeding remains a concern despite the road’s 20mph limit.

Wellow Golf Club near Romsey has applied to Test Valley Borough Council for permission to extend its existing timber golf tuition building by about four metres. The additional space would support indoor lessons and practice, while the applicants say the design will match the current structure and create no significant countryside, traffic, parking or activity impacts. The application is awaiting a decision.

A foal suffered a broken back after being struck by a vehicle at Ipley Cross in the New Forest in an apparent hit-and-run. New Forest Roads Awareness said the animal may have been dragged several feet before being abandoned, while its mare remained nearby. An appeal is seeking the driver, believed to have been travelling toward Twiggs Lane, with a reward of up to £5,000 offered for information leading to the person’s identification.

Police contacted the parents of seven young people after an increase in illegal e-bike and e-scooter use in Hedge End, West End and Botley. PCSO Mica Woodcock said some vehicles are illegally modified or similar to high-speed Sur-Ron machines, while officers are concerned about riders travelling without helmets, carrying passengers and sharing vehicles. Parents and guardians are being urged to check whether their children’s vehicles are legal for road use.

More than 40 firefighters from across Hampshire responded to a blaze that began when a combine harvester caught fire in a field south of Titchfield on July 27. The fire spread across about seven hectares of crops, producing smoke and ash visible over a wide area. Roads were closed around Meon Road, residents were urged to avoid the area, and emergency crews worked to bring the fire under control.

Five cruise ships are scheduled to visit Southampton during the week of July 27, bringing thousands of passengers and potentially increasing traffic. Disney Dream and AIDAperla are due on Monday, Norwegian Sky on Thursday, and Britannia and Seven Seas Mariner on Friday. Drivers are advised to check travel conditions before setting out, with further cruise arrivals expected over the weekend.

Motorists in Southampton and surrounding areas are warned of severe congestion throughout August as roadworks continue on Shirley High Street, Romsey Road, Thomas Lewis Way, Above Bar Street, Civic Centre Road, New Road and the Itchen Bridge. A six-week SGN gas-main replacement scheme in Totton is expected to add further delays. Councillor Steven Galton criticizes the coordination of works, while Southampton City Council says scheduling during the quieter summer holidays and monitoring utility companies will reduce disruption. Local businesses, including Shirley party-supply shop Make it Magic, report losing customers and revenue because of the works.

Hampshire County Council’s Regulatory Committee, rather than council officers, will decide whether to approve the controversial £187 million plan to widen about nine kilometres of the A326 between Totton and Dibden. The scheme includes additional lanes, junction upgrades, and improved walking and cycling routes, but has drawn hundreds of objections over environmental effects, increased traffic, and impacts on nearby communities. Councillor David Harrison welcomed the public and elected oversight.

Southampton and Hampshire are expected to experience temperatures above 30°C from Tuesday, July 28, with conditions potentially exceeding the Met Office heatwave threshold until at least Thursday. The heatwave follows an exceptionally dry July, while wildfires have affected the Isle of Wight, the New Forest and Tadley. Yellow heat-health alerts remain in place across southern England, and further hot, dry periods are possible in August.

Plans for a 1GW battery energy storage facility covering 28.05 hectares between Redbridge Railway Station and the River Test at the Port of Southampton have cleared a key planning hurdle. Southampton City Council decided that the proposed development, comprising 512 battery units, does not require a full Environmental Impact Assessment. The decision is not planning permission, but allows NatPower UK to proceed toward a full application. Construction would take about 18 months, with the facility operating for up to 40 years, subject to approval. Associated British Ports supports the scheme, which is intended to strengthen grid resilience, enable port electrification and contribute to Southampton’s decarbonisation goals; further technical assessments, including flood-risk studies, will still be required.

Police are investigating the assault of a woman in her 20s on Chapel Road in West End at around 5am on Sunday, July 26. Officers are working to establish what happened and identify those responsible, and have appealed to anyone who witnessed suspicious activity or has relevant information to contact Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary. No details about the nature of the assault or the woman’s injuries have been released.

A 51-year-old motorcyclist suffered serious injuries after a collision involving a black Triumph Street Triple and a silver Ford S-Max on Portsmouth's A2030 Eastern Road. Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary is appealing for witnesses, particularly drivers with dashcam footage, and has provided an incident number for those with information.

Plans have been submitted to Southampton City Council to increase the permitted occupancy of 17 Malvern Road from a six-bedroom to a seven-bedroom house in multiple occupation. The property has two existing on-site parking spaces, with no parking changes proposed, and its waste facilities would remain managed under council standards. The application was validated on July 21 and is awaiting a decision.

Marwell Zoo has moved capybaras Ripple and Tango into a new habitat, where visitors can watch them explore before they receive access to the full enclosure. The Hampshire wildlife park is continuing to search for Samba, Tango’s sister, who escaped in March, and has asked the public to submit photographs and sightings.

Police asked Red Funnel to cut power at Southampton’s Town Quay after a man in distress was found standing and sitting on an electricity box. Emergency services attended, access to parts of the quay was restricted, and a wider outage affected 370 properties. Red Funnel said ferry services and Red Jet sailings continued, while Terminal 2 facilities, including the café, ticket office and toilets, were temporarily unavailable.

Scorched ground and litter on Southampton Common prompted councillor John Savage to warn residents against using disposable barbecues, citing fire risks in hot weather and environmental damage. A council study found significant green space loss linked to disposable barbecue use, leading to renewed calls for the public to avoid them on the Common.

A lorry driver sustained minor injuries after crashing into the central barrier of the M27 at 1.26am, prompting a full motorway closure for more than five hours. Emergency services responded while recovery crews removed the vehicle and cleared debris. The closure caused significant early morning disruption as teams worked to make the motorway safe.

Families, including children, witnessed a weapon assault near Leigh Road in Eastleigh during a busy public event, leading to the arrest and subsequent bail of a 23-year-old man on suspicion of possessing an offensive weapon and assault. Police noted the distress caused to those present and appealed for further witnesses or information.

Two passengers were seriously injured in a collision on the M3 between Eastleigh and Winchester, involving a Skoda Fabia and a BMW. Police arrested a 24‑year‑old man from London on multiple driving-related offences and released him on bail. Investigators are appealing for witnesses and dashcam footage.

A Southampton landlord has applied for a lawful development certificate to confirm that a Highfield property has operated as an HMO since 2012. Planning documents state the property has housed unrelated tenants continuously except for a refurbishment period from late 2024 to mid‑2025, after which it was re-let. Southampton City Council will review the application at an upcoming planning meeting.

Police in Southampton located and secured a loose horse found wandering on Portsmouth Road after it escaped a nearby field and attempted to approach a group of female horses. With assistance from a member of the public providing a dog lead, officers safely contained the animal and reunited it with its owner.

Pine martens have reappeared in the New Forest after being absent for decades, following a successful 2024 breeding event observed by Forestry England. Once nearly eradicated in southern England due to habitat loss and persecution, the protected species is now being photographed in the area, including by local photographer Tim Kitts. The animals thrive in mature woodland habitats and remain legally safeguarded under UK wildlife protection laws.

Eleven cruise ships are scheduled to arrive in Southampton over three days, prompting expectations of heavy passenger traffic and potential delays around the port. Arrivals include vessels from P&O Cruises, Cunard, Hapag-Lloyd, MSC Cruises, Princess Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean, with early morning berthing times across the weekend.

The Glovis Lighthouse, one of the world’s largest next‑generation vehicle carriers, arrived in Southampton on its first commercial voyage. The 230‑metre vessel can transport up to 10,000 car‑equivalent units and features technology aimed at improving efficiency and reducing environmental impact. It is scheduled to depart the port on July 21.

Southern Water cannot yet say when its hosepipe ban in Hampshire will be lifted due to persistently low water levels in the River Test after a dry spring, heatwaves and below‑average rainfall. Director of Water Operations Tania Flasck says the timing depends on sustained rainfall and river recovery, thanking customers for reducing usage. The company has reduced leakage in recent years and is developing Havant Thicket Reservoir, warning that hotter, drier summers could make future restrictions more common to protect sensitive chalk streams.

Hythe and Dibden Parish Council issued a formal objection to Hampshire County Council’s proposed A326 Waterside Improvements Scheme, arguing the project offers minimal journey time reductions while imposing years of disruption on around 20,000 residents. The council cites limited transport benefits, significant environmental damage, and major construction impacts on local communities and businesses. It concludes the need and proportionality of the scheme are uncertain and recommends refusal of planning permission.

A police speed check on Wilverley Road in the New Forest resulted in four motorists being stopped for exceeding the 40mph limit as part of an effort to reduce speeding and protect free‑roaming animals. Hampshire Constabulary reported encouraging results and thanked partner organisations for assisting with the road safety initiative.

Lane closures, speed limits and weight restrictions remain in place at the M27 Junction 8 Windhover Interchange after structural damage was found on the bridges. National Highways is designing repairs scheduled for next year, extending disruption following a recent major resurfacing project. The restrictions will stay until permanent repairs are completed.

Environmental preparation for sinking the SS United States as an artificial reef is complete, with only a permit modification and federal approvals outstanding. Okaloosa County seeks changes to its existing reef permit to place the vessel in deeper water, and final authorisation from the US Army Corps of Engineers and the Environmental Protection Agency is required before scheduling deployment off the Destin–Fort Walton Beach coast. The ship will remain docked in Mobile until approvals are secured.

High temperatures have prompted New Forest District Council to start waste and recycling collections at 5am between July 13 and 17, with residents asked to place bins out early. The council aims to complete all rounds but warns that heat may slow progress, advising residents to check updates and report missed bins by the next working day. Similar early starts were introduced during a previous heatwave and by other Hampshire councils.

A leasehold property in Southampton that houses the American‑style sports bar 1st Base has been listed for sale at £190,000. The fully let premises generate an annual rental income of £20,500 plus VAT, with tenant 1st Entertainment Ltd operating under a lease running until 2034. The bar features interactive entertainment offerings and is marketed partly for its proximity to the Bargate Quarter regeneration project, which is set to deliver hundreds of new homes.

More than 70 residents have opposed Hampshire County Council’s nearly £200 million plan to widen the A326 between Totton and Applemore, arguing it offers limited local benefit and would harm the environment. Critics, including Councillor David Harrison, claim the project primarily supports increased port traffic and fails to address impacts on the New Forest National Park. Several residents questioned its cost, potential to worsen commuting times, and the effectiveness of proposed cycling infrastructure. The consultation period closes on July 17.

Marwell Zoo continues searching for Samba, the capybara that escaped after storm damage in December, while introducing a new male, Ripple, to accompany resident capybara Tango. Additional camera traps were deployed after a recent sighting in Brambridge, and the zoo maintains that the search remains active. Ripple and Tango will move to a refurbished enclosure for the summer once their introduction is complete.

Police recorded 32 speeding vehicles on Beaulieu Road in the New Forest during a road safety operation, with the highest speed registered at 41 mph. Officers also identified two vehicles with misrepresented number plates and referred the details to the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency. The enforcement forms part of ongoing efforts by Hampshire Constabulary to improve road safety and encourage compliance with speed limits.

Police responded to a new traveller encampment on Allington Lane in Fair Oak, where officers have been visiting the site of ten vehicles and eight caravans and engaging with both residents and the travelling community. Authorities are working with the landowner to reach a resolution, similar to an earlier encampment at the same location last month. Unauthorised sites are managed jointly by police, local authorities and landowners based on welfare needs, reports of crime or anti‑social behaviour and applicable legal powers.

A man from Southampton has been arrested on suspicion of causing grievous bodily harm after a serious assault at The Hinkler pub on July 4 left another man with serious head injuries. Hampshire Police confirmed the arrest of the 63-year-old, who has been released on bail until October 11, and thanked the public for assisting with their appeal for information.

Fareham Borough Council reports increasing abuse toward waste and recycling crews and urges residents to treat workers with patience and respect. The council emphasises that verbal aggression and intimidation will not be tolerated and thanks community members who continue to support collection teams.

A landlord has applied for a lawful development certificate to confirm that a property on Newcombe Road has legally operated as a house in multiple occupation for at least ten years. Planning documents state the current owner purchased the property in 2017 when it was already in HMO use, and a 2019 enforcement investigation found no planning breach. The applicant argues the HMO use likely predates Southampton’s 2012 Article 4 direction, which removed permitted development rights for small HMOs. The city council is reviewing the application.

A property at 2 Carlton Road in Southampton is seeking a lawful development certificate to formally confirm its long-term use as a five-bedroom house in multiple occupation. The applicant claims the home has continuously operated as an HMO since 2011, supported by tenancy records. Unlike a planning application, the certificate would officially recognise the existing use. The property, previously licensed for five occupants, awaits a decision from Southampton City Council.

Travellers occupying Fleming Park in Eastleigh say they lack dedicated sites in Hampshire after receiving an eviction notice from the borough council. Around 12 caravans arrived, temporarily closing a paddling pool, but the group emphasized they were keeping the area clean and causing no damage. They argued that insufficient purpose-built traveller sites force them onto council land. The council, police, and leisure operators are monitoring the situation, following a recent decision by New Forest District Council to reject a proposed traveller site in Dibden.

Planning documents seek approval to rebuild a barn at Eling Hill Farm after a suspected arson attack destroyed the structure and forced the evacuation of around 150 cows. Emergency crews responded as the blaze torched more than 500 hay bales and damaged tractors, prompting a police investigation now being treated as deliberate. The proposal submitted to New Forest District Council aims to construct a like‑for‑like replacement on the original footprint, restoring essential farm operations and addressing the disruption caused by the incident. The new structure would use traditional materials and be largely built off‑site to accelerate completion.

Nine cruise ships are scheduled to arrive in Southampton over the weekend of July 11–12, prompting warnings that traffic near the docks may be heavier than usual. Five ships are expected Saturday and four on Sunday, with thousands of passengers anticipated to pass through the port.

A cyclist in his 30s died after a collision with a white Mercedes on Romsey Road in Southampton. Police said the car was travelling westbound toward Lordshill Roundabout when it struck the cyclist, who entered the road from a nearby pathway. The driver, a 40‑year‑old man from Southampton, was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and drink driving and remains in custody. Authorities are seeking witnesses and dash‑cam footage related to the incident.

Three men wearing Sylvester Stallone masks reportedly threatened a man with a knife in an Eastleigh alleyway and stole his rucksack containing cash and personal items. The suspects, all of similar height and build, fled the scene, with one riding a pearlescent bicycle. Police are investigating and appealing for witnesses or relevant footage.

Overnight closures on the M3 northbound between junctions 10 and 9 begin as part of the junction nine improvement scheme, with weeknight shutdowns from 8pm to 6am until 30 July. Motorists are advised to expect delays, use signed diversions, and avoid satnav routes that may direct them onto unsuitable roads. National Highways notes that closure schedules may change due to weather or operational needs.

A pedestrian in his 20s suffered minor injuries after being struck by a vehicle on London Road in Southampton shortly after 3 a.m. Police arrested a 24‑year‑old local man on suspicion of drug‑driving and causing serious injury by dangerous driving before releasing him under investigation. Officers are appealing for information as enquiries continue.

Police reported that a man in his 50s remains in hospital after an incident involving a jet‑ski, two children and another man on an inflatable off Calshot. Emergency services responded to reports of a man in difficulty in the water on Sunday evening, and no arrests have been made.

A heatwave is forecast to bring temperatures in Southampton up to 32°C on Thursday, Saturday and Sunday, exceeding expected highs in Los Angeles. The Met Office predicts largely settled conditions with sunshine and light winds, and temperatures rising steadily from the mid‑20s earlier in the week. Much of southern England is expected to experience the warm spell, with Southampton among the hottest areas.

Police cleared an unauthorised traveller encampment from Knowle Lane in Fair Oak using Section 61 powers and are working with partner agencies to identify repeat sites linked to disorder. Hampshire Constabulary said its approach aims to balance community needs while strengthening locations that have previously experienced criminality.

Police responded to reports of drug use near Georgina Close in Calmore, prompting a man to flee as officers arrived. A search of a tent under a bypass resulted in the seizure of suspected drugs and an illegally modified mountain bike. Hampshire Police thanked residents for reporting concerns, noting that community information helps guide patrols and enforcement actions.

Queen Mary 2 anchored in New York Harbor as a central feature of the Sail4th 250 celebrations marking the 250th anniversary of U.S. independence. Guests aboard witnessed a large parade of tall ships, a naval review, military flyovers and fireworks. Cunard leadership highlighted the symbolic role of the ship in transatlantic history, while event organizers praised its presence. The festivities also coincided with the anniversary of Cunard’s first transatlantic crossing.

A 20-year-old motorcyclist, Cieran Bass, died after a collision with a Nissan Qashqai on Mansbridge Road in Swaythling. His family issued an emotional tribute describing him as a joyful and caring young man. More than 30 floral tributes were placed at the scene, along with personal items. Police continue to investigate the crash and are appealing for witnesses or relevant footage.

Police stopped a driver travelling at 117mph on the M3 during shifts by Hampshire Constabulary’s roads policing unit, which identified 17 motoring offences including speeding, careless driving, seatbelt violations and mobile phone use. Officers emphasized that most drivers were behaving appropriately but urged continued safe driving.

Two Hampshire Constabulary officers are under investigation for potential gross misconduct over alleged failures to provide urgent medical aid to murder victim Henry Nowak before his death. The Independent Office for Police Conduct escalated its inquiry after the conviction of Vickrum Digwa, reviewing evidence that officers dismissed Nowak’s reports of being stabbed and chose to arrest and handcuff him instead of offering first aid. The investigation also examines control room actions, discrepancies in how Nowak and Digwa were treated, and whether race or religion influenced officers’ responses. The IOPC will determine whether disciplinary proceedings are warranted after completing its review.

Southampton General Hospital is operating under a critical incident as emergency department waiting times reach 12 hours following a local heatwave. The hospital urges families to collect discharged relatives promptly to free up beds and notes that volunteers are available to help with transport, equipment and medication deliveries. University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust reports continued high attendance, prioritising only the most urgent cases and warning that non‑urgent patients will face long waits. Staff request public cooperation and appropriate use of emergency services to reduce pressure on the system.

A Liberal Democrat councillor urged the UK Government to include Southampton General Hospital in its new hospitals programme after a heatwave triggered a critical incident. Ageing buildings, failed air conditioning, cancelled operations and a recent fire have intensified demands for major investment. The councillor argued that outdated infrastructure from the 1960s and 1970s is no longer adequate for modern NHS needs and encouraged residents to support a petition for a full rebuild.

Two masked men on scooters smashed all the front windows of Comptons Cocktails in Southampton just hours before a £20,000 street celebration marking the launch of the nearby Pink Olive Café. Business owners William Smith and Tommy Compton reported thousands of pounds in damage, with insurance covering only a small portion. Community support led to a successful fundraising effort, and the event proceeded despite the vandalism. Hampshire Constabulary confirmed receiving a report and urged anyone with information to come forward.

Southampton is expected to see temperatures rise again in early July, with highs reaching around 25C by the weekend following a brief cooler period. The Met Office forecasts steadily increasing temperatures from midweek, making the city as warm as Mexico City on Sunday. Chief Forecaster Neil Armstrong noted that the milder conditions will bring relief after the previous week’s heatwave.

A fully accessible changing room toilet has opened in Romsey, offering expanded space and specialist equipment for people with complex disabilities. Developed by Test Valley Borough Council and Romsey Future in consultation with local disability groups, the facility includes an adult-sized changing bench, a hoist and improved wheelchair access. Funded through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, the project aims to enhance independence and comfort for residents and visitors, with local leaders highlighting its positive impact on families and carers.

Students from Lift New Forest arrived at their prom at Beaulieu Motor Museum in a variety of vehicles ranging from a horse and lorries to high‑performance cars including a Nissan GT‑R and BMWs. The event began on June 25 with students walking a red carpet before celebrating with classmates, teachers and families. Photographs from the event will be featured in an upcoming Daily Echo prom picture special.

A group of travellers occupying land in Horton Heath were ordered to leave within 24 hours after Eastleigh Borough Council secured a possession order when no one from the encampment attended the court hearing. The council had issued summonses following an initial request for the group to leave voluntarily and served the eviction notice to all caravans, with officers scheduled to check compliance the following day.

Police are seeking witnesses after a 17-year-old girl was reportedly photographed inappropriately near The Shack in Lee-on-the-Solent. Officers are looking to identify a man described as white, aged 25 to 35, with an athletic build and dressed in black. Information can be provided to Hampshire Police via phone or the online reporting portal.

Southampton City Council rejected plans to convert Elm Lodge in Shirley Avenue into an 18‑bedroom HMO, citing concerns over scale, intensity of use, increased noise, lack of on‑site management, and the risk of exceeding the area’s HMO concentration threshold. The authority determined the proposal would conflict with the suburban character of the neighbourhood and contribute to a more transient population, negatively affecting the established community.

Southampton City Council is moving ahead with new digital advertising towers at Redbridge Roundabout, delivered by Ocean Outdoor, to generate long-term revenue and provide space for public messaging. Council leader Sarah Bogle highlighted added benefits including contributions to local greening initiatives and alignment with the company’s established Two Towers network in major UK cities.