Sophie Watson

Six-year-old Saja El-Khawas died in hospital after being rescued from the sea near Shoreham Fort on August 18. Her death brings the number of fatalities in the incident to four, following the deaths at the scene of her 14-year-old sister Sara, father Hassan and mother Zeina. The family, believed to have travelled from London, got into difficulty after entering the water near the meeting point of the River Adur and the sea. Sussex Police say the investigation remains open, but witness accounts and CCTV indicate a tragic accident with no third-party involvement. Emergency services and community organisations have expressed condolences, while Sara’s school and the wider Palestinian community have paid tribute.

Firefighters are warning people not to imitate a social media trend involving setting aerosol cans alight after a deliberate fire at Horsham Skate Park on August 20. Although crews quickly extinguished the blaze, they said heated aerosol cans can explode without warning and dry vegetation increased the risk of the fire spreading. West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service reported 123 deliberately started fires since the beginning of June, a 38% increase from the same period last year, and urged residents to take precautions including extinguishing cigarettes, managing barbecues safely, removing litter and keeping reflective items out of direct sunlight.

Steve Gladwin, a former NHS executive and local resident, has been selected as Labour’s candidate for the Queen’s Park by-election on Brighton and Hove City Council on 24 September. His campaign will focus on the cost of living, pensioner and fuel poverty, economic regeneration and support for the local economy. The by-election follows Labour councillor Milla Gauge’s resignation over concerns about the council’s response to safeguarding issues, one of eight Labour resignations since the party took control in 2023. The Green Party and Liberal Democrats have also selected candidates, both criticising Labour’s record and internal turnover.

Friends of Brighton character Charles Saddler, known as “Pirate,” have launched a £4,500 fundraising appeal to help cover his funeral costs after his death from lung cancer. His longtime friend Glenroy Martin described Saddler as kind, passionate, intelligent and deeply caring, and urged the community to contribute toward a loving farewell featuring family, friends and reggae music.

Nyetimber expects to begin its earliest-ever grape harvest in mid-September after an exceptionally hot UK summer accelerated grape ripening. Although spring frosts damaged about 30% of its vineyards and drought created additional challenges, sustained heat produced favorable growing conditions. The producer operates 11 estate-owned vineyards across West Sussex, Hampshire and Kent, growing Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier. It anticipates producing a vintage wine from the 2026 harvest, provided conditions remain favorable.

A man in his fifties was declared dead at the scene of a fire on Sompting Road in Broadwater, Worthing, after emergency services were called at around 3:40 a.m. Sussex Police said his next of kin had been informed, no other injuries were reported, and enquiries into the circumstances of the fire were continuing. A partial road closure has since been removed.

The railway between Haywards Heath and Lewes is scheduled to reopen on September 1 after extensive repairs following a Southern train derailment near Lewes on August 13. Engineers have removed derailed carriages, repaired damaged track and the embankment, and begun restoring signalling systems near the River Ouse. Testing and inspections will take place before services resume. The derailment injured two people seriously, and its cause remains under investigation by the Rail Accident Investigation Branch.

The Wealden Brass Band performed a surprise concert at Beechwood Grove care home in Eastbourne for resident Marrienne Hylands's 89th birthday. Her daughter Jessica arranged the event with care home staff and residents to honor Hylands's more than 40 years of playing tenor horn with the band. Friends and former colleagues, including ex-musical director Dave Padget, joined the performance, which staff said brought joy and prompted fond reminiscences among residents.

The Information Commissioner’s Office has closed its investigation into West Sussex County Council after confidential documents, including foster-care records, court papers, Blue Badge applications, names, addresses and photographs, were reportedly found in unoccupied offices in Bognor Regis and Chichester. The council reported the incident and said it had secured the buildings and removed the records. The ICO issued data-protection advice and guidance but took no further regulatory action, citing the remedial measures already undertaken. The council had not yet responded to questions about responsibility, apologies, the number of people affected or further changes to its procedures.

Nicholas Lowe, 44, died from MDMB-4en-PINACA toxicity the morning after being released from HMP Five Wells to supported accommodation in Brighton. The Prisons and Probation Ombudsman found that he had received appropriate substance-misuse, rehabilitation and mental-health support, and identified no significant failings in his pre-release planning or post-release supervision. Lowe had declined residential rehabilitation, resumed seeking antipsychotic medication shortly before release, and arrived late at the accommodation after stopping for a drink. Emphysema and bronchopneumonia were contributory factors, and an inquest later concluded that his death was drug related.

A serotine bat nicknamed Louis was rescued after becoming trapped in a toilet while apparently seeking water during a period of extreme heat in Sussex. After being found underweight, he was cared for by bat rescuer Amanda Millar and fed mealworms for a week before being released back into the finder’s garden. Sussex Wildlife Trust and Sussex Bat Group highlighted the pressures bats face from dehydration and injuries, particularly from cats, and urged people to contact the bat group for advice when encountering a bat in distress.

Police are investigating an armed robbery at Hurstpierpoint Post Office in West Sussex. A masked white man with grey hair, wearing gloves and a black jacket, allegedly threatened staff with a suspected firearm and fled shortly before 5.30pm with a large quantity of cash. Armed response officers attended, while residents said the incident had left the community shaken. Sussex Police and the Post Office are appealing for witnesses, CCTV, doorbell and dashcam footage, with information also accepted anonymously through Crimestoppers.

Three young women were unable to move into their Hove flat on the agreed date after the property remained occupied and maintenance work was delayed. When they eventually gained access, the flat was reportedly dusty, stained and unclean, including snot on a wall. Their representative, Scott Ainslie, criticized Charters Estate Agents and highlighted the financial pressures facing young renters in Brighton and Hove. Charters said the matter had been resolved satisfactorily, and the tenants received an apology and £300 in compensation.

An altercation involving one man and three other men was reported on North Street in Chichester at about 12:15 p.m. on August 16. An eyewitness said one man ran away while being chased by a group. Sussex Police said everyone involved left the scene and appealed for information, asking witnesses to report details online or by calling 101.

The Littlehampton Harbour Waterfront Festival returned for a two-day celebration along the River Arun, featuring live music, family entertainment, food and drink stalls, craft displays, waterside activities and harbour demonstrations. Formerly known as the Littlehampton Regatta, the event showcases the town’s maritime heritage and attracts both residents and tourists.

The Shoreham Raft Race returned to the River Adur, with teams launching homemade rafts from Sussex Yacht Club and competing on a high-tide-timed course. The community event included live music, children’s activities and a prize presentation, while fundraising supported Friends of Herons Dale Primary School, RNLI Shoreham, the Duchenne Family Support Group and the 3rd/5th Lancing Sea Scout Group. The photo gallery highlights the teams’ creative raft designs and participation.

A car overturned on Marine Parade in Worthing at about 10pm on August 14 and struck two parked vehicles. No one was injured. Police arrested the driver, Lewis Davis, 25, of Sompting, and later charged him with driving with excess alcohol. He was released on bail and is due to appear before Worthing Magistrates' Court on November 17.

The railway between Lewes and Haywards Heath will remain closed for at least another 10 days after a Southern train derailed near Lewes on August 13. Engineers must use two 125-tonne rail-mounted cranes to recover three carriages that slid partway down an embankment before assessing damage and planning repairs. The operation is complicated by the train’s proximity to a river, a Site of Special Scientific Interest and a residential area with limited road access. Replacement buses will continue to operate, while passengers are advised to travel via Brighton where possible. The Rail Accident Investigation Branch has completed its work at the scene, but its investigation into the cause continues.

Eastbourne Airbourne has cancelled its Sunday fireworks display because of a UK Government warning about the very high national risk of wildfires. Eastbourne Borough Council said the decision was intended to protect the public and avoid adding pressure to emergency services, while emphasizing that the air show would continue with aircraft displays, parachute demonstrations, performances and other attractions.

Hundreds of people have paid tribute to Brighton local character Charles, affectionately known as “Charles the Pirate,” who was recognised across the city for his colourful clothing, love of reggae and larger-than-life personality. Friends, residents and people who knew him only by sight described his lasting impact on Brighton. A memorial gathering featuring reggae and other music is planned for Brighton beach on Sunday, organised by Roar Selekta, who knew Charles for 40 years.

A Brighton man in his forties won £77,954.20 in a EuroMillions draw after matching five main numbers. He plans to celebrate with his family, contribute to his ISAs and save for the future. Allwyn winners’ adviser Abbie Suddick congratulated him, while the article also notes that National Lottery ticket sales contribute about £33 million weekly to projects and organisations across the UK and reminds players to be aged 18 or over and gamble responsibly.

A Southern service traveling from London Victoria to Eastbourne derailed near Lewes shortly before 4 p.m. on August 13, prompting a major emergency response involving more than 50 vehicles and multiple helicopters. Three carriages came off the track and down an embankment, with images showing heavily buckled rails. Two people were seriously injured and nine others sustained injuries. The derailment caused extensive disruption across the rail network, expected to continue overnight and into the following day.

An emu that escaped from a private farm near Peacehaven was safely recovered after its owner, Virgil Szilagyi-Ruggins, noticed it was missing and found it in a neighbouring field. The bird had left through a collapsed section of old fencing and was caught unharmed by Szilagyi-Ruggins and his partner. The damaged fence has since been replaced, while the owner hopes to create opportunities for people to learn about the tame, gentle animals.

Crawley Borough Council and Sussex Police have installed CCTV cameras in the Tilgate Park car park following complaints about antisocial driving, noise and disruption affecting nearby residents. The cameras are intended to deter dangerous driving, help identify vehicles and individuals, and support enforcement action. Officials said the installation reflects partnership working and pledged to continue monitoring the situation, amid wider concerns about car meets and racing in Sussex.

Vagabond Wines plans to open a new wine bar on part of the former Browns Brasserie site on Duke Street in Brighton in late autumn, following refurbishment. The venue will offer more than 100 wines by the glass through self-service machines, private dining and tasting facilities, and English wines made at Vagabond’s London winery using grapes from Sussex and the wider South East. The opening will be Vagabond’s first new high-street venue outside London in five years and forms part of a plan to grow from 14 to 25 locations over the next five years following its acquisition by Majestic Wine in 2024.

An inquest concluded that 90-year-old Barbara Stevens, who had dementia, was unlawfully killed by her 75-year-old partner Robert Page at their home in Bexhill-on-Sea. Stevens suffered at least eight blunt-force injuries and died in hospital after police found the couple following a welfare check. Evidence indicated that Page, who later died by suicide, had struggled as Stevens’s condition deteriorated and had likely intended to kill her or cause serious harm. The coroner said Page would probably have faced a murder charge had he survived.

Specsavers says it chose not to produce or supply solar eclipse glasses because they are single-use products intended for a relatively rare event and therefore a less sustainable choice. The optician warns that ordinary sunglasses are unsafe and recommends certified glasses meeting the ISO 12312-2 standard, or indirect viewing methods such as pinhole projectors. Lewes Astronomical Society is offering specialist equipment and eclipse glasses at a free viewing event near Seaford, while advising users to inspect glasses for damage and never combine them with binoculars or telescopes.

Sarah Lunday was left homeless after an accidental fire severely damaged her rented home in Ash Keys, Crawley. Eight fire engines and an aerial ladder platform attended the blaze, which damaged ten properties, including four homes rendered uninhabitable. Lunday lost her possessions and is temporarily sleeping on her son's floor while trying to secure new accommodation. Her daughter-in-law Lucy Franks launched a GoFundMe appeal to help cover deposits, rent, agency fees, moving costs and essential household items; it had raised just over £600 toward a £5,000 target. A later inspection found that everything in Lunday's home had been destroyed by soot, rubble or fire.

Work is underway to replace Exceat Bridge, the single-lane A259 crossing over the River Cuckmere between Seaford and Eastbourne. Piling on the west side of the river is expected to continue until the end of August and may cause disruption from heavy construction traffic, although no road closures are currently planned. Jackson Civil Engineering is delivering the project with East Sussex County Council and East Sussex Highways. The replacement will provide two traffic lanes and a footpath, funded by £19.18 million from the UK government alongside county council contributions, easing a longstanding bottleneck for local and tourist traffic.

Godstone High Street reopened on 31 July 2026, 18 months after a 62-foot sinkhole forced nearby homes to be evacuated and disrupted local businesses. Surrey County Council completed road repairs and resurfacing in July, while SES Water finished replacing and commissioning the damaged water mains by the reopening. The collapse’s exact cause remains unknown, although underground erosion linked to a burst water main may have contributed. Residents and businesses had previously criticized local councils over inadequate information and support during the prolonged closure.

Arlington Stadium in Hailsham has ended oval racing with immediate effect after more than 60 years. Spedeworth Motorsports said the stadium owners no longer wanted to host its events, expressing disappointment over the sudden decision after a race had taken place the previous night. Manager Gavin Botfield described the closure as devastating. The venue, built in 1929, hosted stock car, banger and hot rod racing and was formerly home to the Eastbourne Eagles speedway team. Spedeworth said it would update customers about existing bookings and remains committed to growing the sport elsewhere.

The A267 was closed in both directions between Sheepsetting Lane and West Street Lane/Sandy Lane after a crash on Thursday evening. The closure began at about 9:35 p.m. and followed an earlier incident involving an oil spill. Details about the collision, including the number of vehicles involved and whether anyone was injured, had not been confirmed. Police vehicles and collision signage were photographed at the scene. The road reopened by Friday morning, with traffic gradually returning to normal.

Pamela Chadwick, 59, from Seaford, died 11 days after her grey Suzuki Vitara collided with a silver Kia Venga on the A26 at Beddingham. Her family described her as a kind, caring and selfless woman who was deeply loved. The Kia driver, a 39-year-old man from Dover, suffered serious injuries and has been discharged from hospital. He was arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and bailed pending further inquiries. Sussex Police are seeking witnesses and relevant footage.

Blind teenager Malachi Tyler is fundraising to move from a large town in Kent to the Sussex coast, where they hope to find community and live more independently. Because they cannot safely use standard appliance controls, they need accessible smart appliances including a washing machine, fridge freezer and dishwasher. Charities have declined grant applications because of the amount required, so the fundraiser is intended to cover these costs and other accessibility equipment.

A blackbird rescued as a tiny nestling by the RSPCA’s Mallydams Wood centre near Hastings was released in June 2011 after rehabilitation. More than 15 years later, the bird was recaptured alive and well by a licensed bird ringer in Newcastle, 481 kilometres away, and was found to be close to matching the British longevity record for a blackbird. The centre said the discovery demonstrated the value of wildlife rehabilitation and bird ringing.

Lewes Town Council has urged residents not to enter Pells Lake to carry out an independent litter pick, citing safety risks and the potential disturbance of contaminated silt. Falling water levels have exposed debris, harmed wildlife and raised concerns about the lake’s condition. The council is removing some debris, analysing silt, monitoring water levels and seeking specialist advice on protecting fish, while warning that restoration is a long-term process affected by groundwater fluctuations and climate change.

Brighton-based singer-songwriter Elle Limebear has reached No. 1 on the UK Christian and Gospel Singles Chart with “Give Me Joy,” her first official UK chart-topper as a solo artist. The song also reached No. 6 on the UK Singles Download Chart and No. 2 on the UK iTunes All Genres Songs Chart. Released through Decca Records, it reworks the hymn “Oil In My Lamp” with new verses and melodies. Limebear, who has lived in Brighton since adolescence, celebrated the achievement with her family and credited the growing influence of contemporary Christian music in the UK.

Vilius Domarkas, 38, pleaded guilty at Hove Crown Court to causing the death of highways worker Anthony Howe, 65, in a collision on the southbound M23 near Junction 9 on July 8. Domarkas admitted driving a Citroën Relay dangerously. Howe, from Kent and known as “Scotty,” was pronounced dead at the scene. Domarkas was arrested and charged the same day and is due to be sentenced on September 28. A fundraiser for Howe’s family had raised £8,962 toward a £12,000 target.

David McVicar's revival of Mozart's Die Entführung aus dem Serail at Glyndebourne is judged an uneven but ultimately enchanting experience. The review criticizes the opera's Orientalist portrayal of the Ottoman Empire and its reliance on threats of sexual violence, while praising the cast—particularly Julie Roset and Michael Mofidian—the Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment, and the production's beautiful setting. Glyndebourne's relaxed atmosphere, long intervals and picnic tradition also make opera feel more accessible and enjoyable. Although the work is considered less magical than Mozart's The Magic Flute or as humane as The Marriage of Figaro, its music and performances overcome many of its dramatic shortcomings.

Greatham Bridge in West Sussex was closed until further notice after two cars caught fire following a road traffic collision. Firefighters extinguished the blaze, while police and paramedics attended. Highways officers are inspecting the Grade II-listed bridge and road surface for structural or other damage before the closure is lifted.

Postman Gary reportedly went viral after saying he held Spanish footballer Marc Cucurella’s World Cup winners’ medal while delivering mail to him in Horsham. Gary described Cucurella as friendly and down-to-earth, prompting praise from local fans. Cucurella, who previously played for Brighton and Chelsea, was also featured with partner Claudia Rodríguez in a FIFA-backed documentary filmed at a Horsham Pilates studio. The article says he has since left Chelsea to join Real Madrid.

A regular visitor criticises the exterior, entrance and internal garden of the Louisa Martindale building at Brighton’s Royal Sussex County Hospital, describing them as dirty, neglected and poorly maintained. The building opened in 2023 as part of a £485 million hospital regeneration project. The visitor cited cigarette litter, stained surfaces and a lack of greenery, while the University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust said the area is cleaned frequently and is due for a deep clean, and encouraged visitors not to smoke or litter.

Five-year-old Isabelle Rice discovered a rare, non-native praying mantis while walking with her mother, Eve, along the undercliff path between Rottingdean and Saltdean near Brighton. The Sussex Wildlife Trust said mantises can reach the UK from continental Europe and noted two Sussex records from coastal locations in 2025. Experts could not confirm whether a recent heatwave caused the sighting, but said climate-related extreme heat and drought can push wildlife beyond its usual range. The public is encouraged to report unusual and ordinary sightings through the Sussex Biodiversity Records Centre and iRecord.

Paris Hilton delivered a camp-focused set at Brighton & Hove Pride, performing covers of Katy Perry and Madonna alongside her own hit “Stars Are Blind.” Despite several brief exits from the stage and no major costume change, her spectacle, dancers, nostalgic visuals and final confetti burst won over thousands of festival-goers, including Brighton friends Meghan, Freya and Luce.

Mel C's DJ set at Brighton & Hove Pride turned Preston Park into a large-scale party, with euphoric remixes of her own songs, Kylie Minogue tracks, Vogue and Spice Girls classics. She was praised for her constant energy and visible enjoyment behind the decks, while a heartfelt message to the crowd before a remix of 2 Become 1 added emotional impact. Audience members described the performance as awesome and phenomenal, and the reviewer awarded it five out of five stars.

Thousands of people attended the second and final day of Brighton and Hove Pride at Preston Park, themed “The Power of Love.” Mel C energized the main stage ahead of performances by Holly Johnson, Paris Hilton, Five and headline act Diana Ross. Pale Waves and Caty Baiser also performed, while visitors arrived across the city by train and stocked up on refreshments before the celebrations.

A GoFundMe campaign led by Protect Open Spaces Southwater has raised more than £21,000 toward a £30,000 goal to protect Ghyll Field in Southwater. The appeal follows the Planning Inspectorate’s decision to approve a 3G artificial football pitch despite more than 500 objections, with campaigners arguing that historic covenants protect the land. Two anonymous £5,000 donations have significantly accelerated fundraising for legal, planning and ecological support.

Jill Windmill in Clayton is set to reopen to visitors after 14 weeks of exterior cleaning, repairs and repainting carried out by volunteers during its seven-year maintenance cycle. The windmill will open on Sunday, August 2, with subsequent Sunday afternoon openings through the end of September. The refurbishment required specially designed freestanding scaffolding because the mill body is built to sway in the wind. The Jack and Jill Windmills Society maintains the site, which has a long history dating back to its construction in 1821 and relocation to Clayton in 1852.

Sussex Police said officers responded to an altercation involving young men at The Beacon shopping centre in Eastbourne at about 3:10 p.m. on August 1. An 18-year-old man suffered a minor cut to his hand, which investigators believe was not caused by the altercation. A knife was seen but has not been recovered, and police are seeking witnesses and CCTV footage.

Sussex Police seized a black electric motorcycle on Marine Parade in Worthing after its rider was allegedly seen travelling the wrong way past a no-entry sign. The male rider was reported for driving without a licence and insurance. The seizure followed a wider Sussex Police crackdown on illegally used e-bikes and e-scooters, with no further details released about the rider.

Emma Lloyd-Buckingham is campaigning for “Chanté’s Law” after her 24-year-old daughter Chanté Lloyd-Buckingham was found dead in supported accommodation in August 2025. The campaign seeks mandatory Care Quality Commission registration, monitoring and inspection for all supported accommodation providers, including those that do not provide personal care. Eastbourne MP Josh Babarinde raised the issue in the House of Commons after a petition reportedly secured nearly 70,000 signatures. Chanté’s inquest remains unresolved; a provisional post-mortem cause of death was drug toxicity, and further pre-inquest hearings are scheduled. Her mother says the delay has hindered her ability to grieve and wants better support for families navigating inquests.

Residents living near Brighton College's redevelopment on Walpole Road say demolition has caused dust, diesel fumes, blocked roads and contractor parking, and accuse Brighton & Hove City Council of approving the project without a Demolition Management Plan or noise and vibration monitoring requirements. The council says the approved Construction Environmental Management Plan includes dust suppression and other controls and that it is investigating possible breaches. Brighton College says dust suppression and monitoring are in place, while offering window cleaning, vehicle-washing access and other voluntary measures to support neighbours during the demolition.

Two men were arrested in the Crowborough area at a military training camp being used to accommodate single male asylum seekers. The National Crime Agency said a 30-year-old man, Ali Sadeghfar, was arrested on June 10 at the request of German authorities over sexual abuse allegations and appeared at Westminster Magistrates' Court. A second man in his twenties was arrested on July 10 on suspicion of possessing indecent images of children and was bailed pending further inquiries. Sussex Police said neither arrest involved terrorism-related offences. The camp, which houses up to 540 people, has faced protests and legal challenges and is expected to operate until 2030.

Brighton Pride 2026 is sponsored by a broad mix of international companies, local businesses, transport providers, drinks brands, media outlets and LGBTQ+-focused organizations. Hayu returns as headline partner, while Virgin Atlantic, Delta Air Lines, Lidl, got2b, Grindr and numerous hospitality and drinks brands occupy premium or official partner roles. Brighton Pride CIC says sponsorship is essential to staging the event and has helped it raise more than £1 million for community causes. The article also notes concerns that corporate involvement could dilute Pride’s activist roots, intensified by American Express withdrawing its support the previous year. Brighton & Hove Pride says it evaluates partners’ wider social and human-rights responsibilities and recognizes the right to protest or boycott sponsors.

Two girls aged nine and ten were rescued after being swept half a mile out to sea on a paddleboard off Selsey. A Selsey RNLI inshore lifeboat reached them within minutes following their mother’s emergency call to the UK Coastguard. The girls were cold but unharmed and reunited with their mother. The response was aided by favourable launch positioning and prevented them from reaching dangerous breaking water. RNLI and coastguard teams urged coastal visitors to exercise caution in offshore winds and to stay with their craft while wearing buoyancy aids.

Police responded to a disturbance on Brighton’s Madeira Drive following England’s 2-1 World Cup semi-final loss to Argentina, briefly arresting a 21-year-old man on suspicion of common assault before issuing a dispersal order and releasing him. Large crowds had gathered at the Central Park fan zone amid rising attendance throughout the tournament, with authorities encouraging anyone with additional information to contact Sussex Police.

Brighton’s fan zone saw large crowds gathering ahead of England’s World Cup semi-final against Argentina, with pubs across Sussex also filled with supporters. England reached the final four after victories over Norway, DR Congo and Mexico, along with earlier matches against Croatia and Ghana. The semi-final takes place in Atlanta on 15 July at 8pm BST.

A sewage discharge alert at Seaford beach prompted public concern after Surfers Against Sewage reported a possible spill. Southern Water later confirmed the alert resulted from a faulty electrical component and that no discharge occurred. The company apologised and updated its reporting systems, while the charity noted that alerts may occasionally be triggered by overly sensitive monitoring equipment.

Drusillas Park’s highly followed “Mystic Meerkats” predicted that England will defeat Argentina in the World Cup semi-final, continuing an unbroken streak of correct forecasts throughout the tournament. The prediction involved the animals choosing between two food-filled buckets, with the group overwhelmingly favouring England. Zoo staff described the meerkats’ behaviour as their most confident prediction yet, noting their growing enthusiasm for football-themed enrichment. A charity donkey named Gervais, previously correct in forecasting England’s quarter-final win, also backed the team. Anticipation builds nationwide as England prepare to face Argentina, with optimism fuelled by both animal predictions and the team’s recent performances.

RNLI crews in Littlehampton responded to multiple incidents over a weekend involving swimmers, inflatable kayaks, and paddleboarders swept out by strong offshore winds. Lifeboats assisted with searches, escorted a disabled yacht to safety, and coordinated with Coastguard teams and local volunteers. The organization urged water users to understand weather conditions, use safety equipment, and call for help when needed.

A fire between Butts Brow and Eastbourne Downs Golf Club prompted Eastbourne Borough Council to issue renewed warnings about wildfire risks during hot, dry weather. Councillor Jim Murray urged the public to take extra care, follow fire‑prevention advice, and avoid activities that could spark further blazes. The council introduced security patrols and is coordinating with East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service and local partners to monitor conditions and keep residents informed.

A 27-year-old man arrested after a dog seriously injured two people in Sunningdale Court, Crawley, was released on bail as Sussex Police continue investigating. Armed officers secured the scene and contained the Cane Corso involved, which was later euthanised for safety and welfare reasons. Police are appealing for witnesses and information quoting reference 712 of 11 July.

A foal named Gervais, born at the Safe Haven for Donkeys sanctuary in Israel after its mother was rescued, predicted an England win over Norway in the World Cup by choosing carrots placed beside an England flag. The charity highlights the animals’ progress, noting improved health and ongoing integration efforts into the wider herd. Staff describe both the light‑hearted prediction and the broader importance of sanctuary care for working donkeys supported across the region.

A fire broke out at the disused Convent of the Holy Child Jesus in St Leonards, prompting criticism from MP Helena Dollimore, who blamed inadequate site security and urged a full investigation. Hastings Borough Council said the property is privately owned but confirmed it had previously raised concerns about unauthorised access and fire risks. Emergency services quickly contained the blaze, and no injuries were reported. Kroll, responsible for securing the site, said its security team alerted emergency responders and pledged to strengthen protective measures and cooperate with investigations.

Police arrested a 48-year-old man on suspicion of deliberately hitting a pedestrian near Hastings railway station, leaving the 47-year-old victim with life-threatening injuries. British Transport Police and Sussex Police confirmed the suspect was detained at the scene on suspicion of grievous bodily harm, and inquiries remain ongoing.

Emergency services launched a large late-night search off Hove Beach after reports of two people struggling in the water. RNLI crews and HM Coastguard coordinated a search involving lifeboats, rescue teams, a helicopter, police and ambulances. Both individuals were later confirmed safe, and no one in distress was found. The incident follows a series of recent coastal emergencies and the earlier discovery of three sisters’ bodies off Brighton beach.

Travellers set up an unauthorised encampment on land near Halfords and the Ouse Estuary Nature Reserve in Newhaven, prompting reports to Sussex Police. Officers attended the site, conducted enquiries and continue patrols while coordinating with the landowner and East Sussex County Council. Various vehicles, including caravans and trucks, were seen arriving on the land, and authorities are managing the situation as an unauthorised encampment.

A secure mailbox service for homeless veterans has opened at Crawley station through a partnership between Greater Thameslink Railway and the charity Squaddie Box, offering users a permanent postal address to access healthcare, employment, and support services. Crawley was selected due to heightened housing pressures, and early users such as veteran Chris Powis have already benefitted. The project marks GTR’s first installation and adds to existing sites in Hastings, Clacton-on-Sea, and Rustington, with a related programme, Civvie Box, expanding support to the wider homeless community.

A fraudster posing as a delivery worker deceived staff at Harriet’s of Hove, leading to the loss of cash and leaving the owner and employees distressed. Harriet Dean-Orange described the incident as heart‑breaking and violating, noting broader financial pressures on local businesses. Sussex Police released images of a man sought in connection with the case and appealed for public assistance as the investigation continues. The community has shown strong support for the business despite critical online comments.

Pubs across Brighton, Hove and Sussex plan to stay open until 5am after the UK Government temporarily relaxed licensing rules to allow fans to watch England’s World Cup last‑16 match against Mexico, which begins at 1am. Major chains, including Greene King, have confirmed multiple participating venues, though residents are advised to check individual pub arrangements. The change, announced by Keir Starmer, applies nationwide to ensure supporters can view the full match, including any extra time or penalties.

Residents criticised Brighton College’s redevelopment project after a demolition incident caused significant dust, prompting work to be halted and a supervisor dismissed. At a community meeting, neighbours described ongoing problems including dust, noise and poor communication, and said trust in the college was low. Brighton College’s director of projects acknowledged previous failings and said a PR firm had been hired to improve communication. The project is expected to continue into 2028.

A prison officer, Rosie Smith, received a 24‑month suspended sentence for misconduct in public office after engaging in an illicit relationship with inmate Marli Casaletto while working at HMP Rochester. The pair exchanged hundreds of calls, video communications, and letters, with Casaletto using illegal mobile phones. Both pleaded guilty, and Casaletto received an eight‑month suspended sentence. The judge criticised their actions as significantly irresponsible but cited Smith’s vulnerability and childcare responsibilities in opting against immediate custody. Casaletto’s recent stability and employment were also factors in his suspended sentence.

A vehicle struck level‑crossing barriers near Pevensey Bay, causing significant delays on routes between Eastbourne, St Leonards, Brighton and Ashford. Southern Rail introduced reduced speeds, route alterations and bus replacements while specialist staff inspect and reset the damaged barriers. Passengers have been advised to allow extra travel time, check real‑time updates and retain tickets for possible compensation, with disruption expected into the evening.

Brighton and Hove City Council urges football fans celebrating England’s late‑night World Cup match against Mexico to avoid entering the sea, especially after drinking. Officials warn that alcohol heightens risks by impairing judgment and increasing vulnerability to cold water shock. Steep beaches, strong currents and submerged hazards around areas such as Black Rock and Brighton Marina add to the danger. The public is advised to look after friends and call emergency services if anyone appears in difficulty or becomes unwell.

Lewes District Council is preparing to decide on a land sale that would consolidate ownership of the North Street Quarter regeneration site under developer Human Nature, enabling progress toward nearly 700 new homes, a health hub, flood protection and new public spaces. Council leader Zoe Nicholson described the decision as pivotal to unlocking the long‑delayed project, originally approved for a smaller number of homes but expanded after Human Nature’s 2021 involvement. The council recently bought much of the land to secure the scheme, while developer Hollybrook has joined to support the next phase of delivery.

Brantridge School in Staplefield received an Ofsted rating of exceptional for attendance and behaviour, with all other inspection areas rated strong. Inspectors highlighted calm behaviour, effective teaching, strong achievement, and rapid progress in reading. The report praised inclusive practices, well‑coordinated leadership, and a comprehensive personal development programme. Pupils were found to feel well supported and eager to attend.

Emergency responders cordoned off a clifftop in Peacehaven after a van went over the edge near Seaview Road, landing on the beach. Sussex Police confirmed the driver was found deceased and that an investigation into the circumstances is underway, with the coroner informed.

A retired NHS worker from Brighton won a £1 million prize in the second round of the National Lottery’s revised Lotto draw after purchasing two Lucky Dip tickets. The new format provides two chances to win per play, with the operator Allwyn highlighting that the update enabled the winning outcome. The winner plans to buy a house with a garden. The National Lottery reports the new system is expected to significantly increase the number of annual millionaires and continues to generate substantial funding for UK community projects.

The UK government plans to extend use of the Crowborough military training camp to house asylum-seekers until 2030, prompting criticism from local MP Nusrat Ghani, Wealden District Council, and campaign group Crowborough Shield CIC. Opponents argue the decision lacks proper consultation, strains local resources, and is unsuitable for small communities. Officials call for improved communication and support from the Home Office to mitigate the impact on residents and volunteers.