Sarah Barltrop

Temperatures in southern and eastern England are forecast to rise to around 29C on Wednesday, 26 August, with Norfolk and Suffolk expected to be among the hottest areas and London reaching about 27C. England and Wales should remain relatively warm earlier in the week, while Scotland and Northern Ireland stay cooler. The Met Office forecasts increasing cloud, showers and a risk of thunderstorms in some areas, while the renewed heat could further damage crops after months of hot, dry conditions.

Topps Tiles will close 23 UK stores this year, including its Cheam branch in London on August 7, where clearance sales have begun. The closures include 15 additional stores announced in April alongside eight previously planned closures. Chief executive Alex Jensen attributed the programme to subdued consumer sentiment, geopolitical uncertainty and cost inflation, saying it would support future growth and strengthen the company's finances. Sales fell 0.1% to £142.7 million in the six months to March 28, amid the integration and disposal process following the acquisition of CTD Tiles and regulatory requirements from the Competition and Markets Authority.

Warnings from senior security figures highlight the UK’s vulnerability to supply disruptions in the event of conflict, citing heavy reliance on imported food, pharmaceuticals and industrial materials. Lord Harris of Haringey urged a national conversation on resilience and greater preparedness across government and industry. Baroness Neville-Jones warned of growing Russian aggression and questioned whether national service may be considered. Ministers confirmed the Defence Readiness Bill will proceed, while questions remain about the UK’s ability to meet future Nato defence spending targets.

Police in Glasgow issued warnings over hate crime and violent disorder after multiple protests targeting individuals accused of sexual offences. Officers responded to disturbances in several neighbourhoods, including Castlemilk, Cranhill and Royston, where crowds confronted properties linked to suspected offenders, leading to arrests and property damage. Police Scotland urged residents to avoid misinformation and unlawful behaviour, while the Scottish Police Federation suggested the events appeared orchestrated. Government officials stated their support for proportionate police action as tensions in several communities continued.

East Links Family Park in East Lothian will close permanently on August 31 after the local council rejected its application to relocate to a nearby farm, with an appeal also denied. The closure ends a 25‑year lease and has prompted widespread disappointment from visitors who described the loss as significant for the region. Staff, equipment and animals will transfer to Clyde Valley Family Park in South Lanarkshire, while the business thanked supporters for their messages and memories.