Stephanie Bateman

Waterdrop has launched the M6HG, an installation-free countertop reverse osmosis system aimed at households, renters, offices and other space-constrained users. The appliance combines eight-stage filtration, UV sterilisation, mineralised water, five temperature presets, a detachable 1.2-litre glass pitcher and separate pure and waste-water pathways. It is available through Amazon UK and Amazon.de, with listed promotional prices of £359 and €359 respectively against an RRP of £429 and €429.

John Collins, 66, and his daughter Samantha Collins, 32, both from Doncaster, have been named by the coroner after they died at Fistral Beach in Newquay on July 26. The pair were reportedly holidaying in the area, and John is believed to have entered the water while trying to save Samantha. An inquest is due to open on August 4, with a full hearing date expected to be set.

Yorkshire-based marketing agency 21 Degrees Digital has appointed communications specialist Jon Corbett as Head of PR as it targets 40% revenue growth in 2026 after turnover surpassed £1 million. Corbett will lead the PR division and integrate it with SEO, content and digital strategy for clients across the UK. The appointment follows other senior hires and supports the agency’s expansion across Leeds, Manchester, Newcastle and the wider North of England, with further recruitment expected.

Tyler Clarke was sentenced to an extended 18-and-a-half-year term after forensic evidence linked him to the burglary and sexual assault of 94-year-old Sheila Wood in her Doncaster home in December 2025. Investigators matched his fingerprints and forensic samples at the scene, located him hiding in a wardrobe in Balby, and recovered a hat matching CCTV footage. Wood died before sentencing, while her family said the attack destroyed her sense of safety, independence and peace of mind.

A three-vehicle collision on the M18 between junctions 4 and 3 left a 68-year-old man and 64-year-old woman with life-threatening injuries, while a 56-year-old man suffered minor injuries. A 46-year-old HGV driver was arrested on suspicion of drug driving and causing serious injury through dangerous driving, then released on police bail. The motorway reopened around 1am after a six-hour closure, and police are seeking witnesses and dashcam footage.

The M18 southbound carriageway is closed between Junction 4 at Hatfield and Junction 3 at Doncaster following a multi-vehicle collision. South Yorkshire Police, Yorkshire Ambulance Service, Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service and National Highways traffic officers are attending. Drivers are being diverted via the A630, A18 and A6182 and advised to allow extra travel time or avoid the route.

A Doncaster woman in her 30s and man in his 60s, understood to be father and daughter, died after being pulled from the sea at Fistral Beach in Newquay on July 26. Devon and Cornwall Police said both were pronounced dead at the scene. Officers are seeking the return of a sentimental handbag believed to have been carried by the woman and will prepare a file for HM Coroner. Newquay Mayor Drew Creek expressed sympathy for the family and thanked emergency and rescue teams.

Glenn Soffe, 32, died after being found with a knife wound in Doncaster on 10 July. His family issued a tribute requesting privacy. Peter Norburn, 53, has been charged with murder and is remanded ahead of a hearing at Sheffield Crown Court.

Roads policing officers intercepted an HGV on the M18 after it swerved between lanes and crossed the white line, with the driver falling asleep at the wheel and not wearing a seatbelt. Officers found multiple cans of energy drinks in the cab, which police said were not a safe solution to tiredness. The driver was processed for driving offences, while South Yorkshire Police used the incident to urge motorists to drive only when fit and to take road safety seriously.

Residents in Sheffield were photographed enjoying city parks as temperatures rose during a heatwave, with people cooling off in the water and relaxing outdoors as hot conditions were forecast to continue.

Dobcroft Junior School and Shooters Grove Primary School have joined the INOVA Multi-Academy Trust, beginning a partnership focused on collaboration, staff development, and expanded opportunities for pupils. Celebratory events were held, and INOVA leadership met with school communities to highlight benefits such as shared expertise and support, while both schools maintain their individual identities. School leaders expressed optimism about the educational and community advantages the partnership will bring.

Police using an unmarked HGV cab alongside National Highways identified 104 driving offences during a four‑day motorway operation, including a driver falling asleep and others using phones, lacking seatbelts or losing control. Most offenders were in HGVs and LGVs. Roads Policing Officer Nathan Warrilow emphasised the life‑or‑death risks of momentary distraction and urged drivers to take responsibility for road safety.

Sheffield City Council is exploring an early-stage proposal to build an earth embankment in Endcliffe Park to create above‑ground flood storage during extreme storms, aiming to protect park facilities and downstream properties. A fenced-off area has been set up for investigations, which will run until late July, though public access, the café and play areas will remain open. Officials stress the design is not final and further feasibility work is underway, with the fenced area expected to shrink as assessments progress.

Joyce Spurr, a Sheffield-born artist and WWII wireless operator who supported codebreaking efforts in Egypt, celebrated her 105th birthday at Broomgrove Care Home. Her extensive artistic career includes notable works such as a painting depicting the Sheffield Blitz, now part of local public collections. After the war she held senior roles in Sheffield’s library and industrial information services before retiring to focus on her art. Proceeds from selling her work helped establish a travel fund at Sheffield Hallam University to support young artists, extending her legacy through both her creative output and her support for future generations.

Victim testimonies led to the conviction of Raymond Utley, who received an 18-year, 11‑month sentence for rape and sexual offences committed over decades in South Yorkshire and Lincolnshire. Police described the crimes as traumatic and praised the victims' bravery, highlighting the coordinated investigation between South Yorkshire and Lincolnshire forces. Utley pleaded guilty to multiple counts including rape of a minor, indecent assault, and sexual assault against additional victims. Officers emphasized continued support for victims and reaffirmed their commitment to pursuing offenders and protecting vulnerable people.

A new Pride in Place board has been formed in Mexborough to oversee £20 million in long-term government investment aimed at improving local infrastructure, culture, and green spaces. Local resident Jacob Winkle has been appointed chair and will work with community members to set priorities and develop an investment plan. Ed Miliband and Doncaster Mayor Ros Jones welcomed the appointment, emphasising the importance of community representation and the opportunity to address historic underinvestment. Residents are invited to apply for board positions before the July 9 deadline.

Young members of the St John Ambulance Edlington Badger Set raised £409.02 for Bluebell Wood Children's Hospice by organising a community quiz night as part of the Helpful Badger programme. Older Badgers planned and ran the event, inviting hospice representatives, writing quiz questions and adding fundraising activities such as a cake stall and a teddy bear competition. Cadet leader Julie Slyde praised their confidence and effort, noting they exceeded their fundraising target. The programme supports children aged 5 to 11 in developing life skills and contributing to their communities.

Suggestions for enhancing outdoor spaces with lighting, audio, barbecues and heating include smart outdoor lights, portable lanterns, weatherproof speakers, compact Bluetooth options, high‑performance pellet grills, portable gas barbecues, freestanding patio heaters and heated throws, with product recommendations tailored for both large and small gardens.

Teddi, a three-year-old lion rescued from war-torn Ukraine and now living at Yorkshire Wildlife Park in Doncaster, has been presented as predicting an England victory over Ghana at the 2026 World Cup. The park says Teddi and his family arrived through its Lion Rescue 2 mission, while subsequent rescue efforts have brought additional Ukrainian lions to safety. The article also highlights the Wildlife Foundation’s role in supporting transport, veterinary care and rehabilitation, and the park’s conservation facilities.

Schools in Mexborough asked pupils to wear yellow to support the family of 11‑year‑old Mackenzie Swift, who died after entering the River Don. Windhill Primary and Highwoods Academy leaders highlighted the community’s grief and reiterated water safety education. An online fundraiser for the family has raised over £14,000, and Mackenzie’s death follows several recent water-related fatalities in the region.

South Yorkshire MPs expressed condolences to the family of 11-year-old Mackenzie Swift and thanked emergency services after a body was recovered from the River Don following a 48‑hour search. Multiple agencies, including police, fire and rescue teams, underwater specialists and mountain rescue volunteers, contributed to the effort. Authorities highlighted the community’s cooperation and offered support to the family as formal identification proceeds.

An extensive search effort by emergency services recovered the body of 11-year-old Mackenzie Swift, who disappeared after entering the River Don near Mexborough. His family has been informed and offered support. Community members and local school staff expressed condolences and grief across social media, thanking search teams and sending messages of sympathy.

Search teams continue efforts to locate 11‑year‑old Mackenzie Swift, who went missing after entering the River Don near Mexborough on May 30. South Yorkshire Police and partner agencies, including fire and rescue crews, mountain rescue, and underwater specialists, are operating from dawn to dusk. Police have advised the family that survival is unlikely if he did not exit the water on Saturday, and they report no evidence he left the river. Officers urge the public not to join the search for safety reasons as operations continue.

South Yorkshire Police are focusing on motorcycle and bicycle safety over a two‑week summer operation, prompted by last year’s 13 rider fatalities in the region. Led by Sergeant Sam Clifford, officers plan to educate and enforce safe riding practices, highlighting visibility, proper gear, helmet standards and further training. Riders are encouraged to speak with officers during the campaign, running from 1 to 14 June.

Yorkshire Wildlife Park is offering fathers free admission on June 20–21, 2026, when booked with an adult, child or senior/student ticket. The promotion highlights animal fathers, including Amur leopard Drake and cheetah Brooke, and includes a separate Hex Wildlife Hotel package with park admission, beer, sweets and family breakfast. The offer supports the park’s conservation messaging around endangered species and its international breeding programme.

A local branch of the Oddfellows mutual society encourages retirees to join its social groups to ease isolation and adjust to post‑work life. Organisers and members describe how activities, volunteering opportunities and regular meetups across South Yorkshire and North Derbyshire help older adults build friendships, establish routines and regain a sense of purpose.

Two offenders in Doncaster received three-year prison sentences following investigations by South Yorkshire Police’s Operation Castle burglary unit. Liam Shead pleaded guilty to six vehicle thefts after evidence from his phone linked him to multiple offences. Antony Wilks admitted burglary and theft after posing as a workman to steal money, jewellery and a TV from an elderly woman, with telecommunications data helping identify him. Police officers emphasized the impact of the crimes and urged burglary victims to report incidents for support and investigation.

Rail services faced major disruption after a person was hit by a train, with delays expected despite the reopening of lines. Passengers using Grand Central, Great Northern, Hull Trains, LNER, Lumo and Thameslink were advised to check for ongoing issues.

A Doncaster man was prevented from boarding a flight home from Kefalonia after Greek airport authorities and the airline refused his American passport under new UK rules requiring dual British nationals to present a British passport or Certificate of Entitlement when entering the UK. His wife described the ordeal and lack of communication about the change, while Jet2 and the Home Office said the carrier had followed legislation and that public guidance had been available. The couple is seeking documentation from abroad while receiving consular support.

Yorkshire Wildlife Park introduced six new species, including Lar Gibbons, Northern Cheetah cubs, a Red Panda, an Okapi calf, an infant Titi monkey and Capybaras, as part of its conservation mission. The new Malaysian Singing Forest Gibbon Reserve houses three gibbons relocated from Cumbria, highlighted for their endangered status and family dynamics. Park leaders emphasised the importance of conservation and public awareness, supported by the Yorkshire Wildlife Foundation. Half‑term visitors can experience ranger talks, live entertainment and the immersive Pangea dinosaur attraction alongside the park’s existing endangered species collection.

Police issued an appeal for information after 42‑year‑old Alan went missing in the Edlington area of Doncaster, describing his appearance and last known clothing and encouraging the public to report any sightings using incident number 59 of 26 May 2026.

Two teenagers, Tamzin and Rhys, who went missing in Doncaster after being last seen on Bawtry Road, were later confirmed safe. Police had issued descriptions and appealed for public assistance, urging anyone with information to contact them using the relevant incident number.

Police appealed for information to locate 15-year-old Maisie, last seen in the Wheatley area of Doncaster on May 22, providing her description and clothing details while urging the public to report sightings via an online portal or by calling 101, noting growing concern for her welfare.

Police in Doncaster seized modified off-road bikes and detained two masked teenagers after a police aircraft tracked their high‑speed, illegal riding through parks and public roads. The National Police Air Service relayed movements to ground officers, who intercepted the pair minutes after they attempted to hide their bikes. Authorities report growing problems with off‑road bike use in the Doncaster East area, prompting ongoing targeted operations. Inspector Alison Carr warned of the dangers posed by unlicensed, uninsured and modified electric bikes capable of high speeds, urging parents to consider safety and legality before purchasing such vehicles and encouraging the public to report illegal activity.

A collision on the northbound M18 between junctions 4 and 5 has closed one lane and caused tailbacks near Doncaster, with normal traffic conditions expected to return between 9:00 and 9:15 a.m.

Five people were arrested after two linked shooting incidents in Doncaster, including gunfire at properties in Scawthorpe and the shooting of a man in Highfields. Police recovered a firearm and detained four men on suspicion of attempted murder and other offences, while a woman was arrested on suspicion of assisting offenders. The injured man remains in hospital, and detectives continue to investigate while urging the public to share information.

Police officers evacuated guests from a burning room at the Holiday Inn Express in Doncaster after attempts to extinguish the fire failed due to intense flames. PC Warren Crowcroft cleared the hotel while PC Rowan Burnett identified and located the suspect. A hotel employee assisted before firefighters extinguished the blaze. Bradley Bennett, who admitted arson with recklessness as to whether life was endangered, received a four-and-a-half‑year prison sentence at Sheffield Crown Court.

A joint operation by the Doncaster Tasking Team and British Transport Police deployed a knife arch at Doncaster Interchange as part of the national Sceptre initiative to counter knife crime. Officers recovered one knife, resulting in a youth referral, and issued a summons to another individual for drug offences. Police reported positive public feedback and encouraged residents to raise concerns and use local knife amnesty bins for safe disposal of bladed items.

New design images for Doncaster Sheffield Airport were released as Fly Doncaster confirmed plans to resume passenger flights by Easter 2028. Despite recent uncertainty, redevelopment work has continued, including a redesigned terminal focused on accessibility, connectivity, sustainability and local identity. Doncaster Mayor Ros Jones emphasised community engagement and progress toward reopening the airport, with further design materials expected in the coming weeks.

Emergency services responded to a road traffic collision on the M18 near Doncaster, prompting the closure of two northbound lanes between junctions 2 and 3 and causing delays of up to 45 minutes. Motorists were advised to avoid the area while responders remained on scene.

Richard Tung, formerly of Doncaster, received a 12-year prison sentence after being found guilty of raping and sexually abusing a boy more than 20 years ago. The victim’s disclosures to a counsellor and others helped support the case despite a lack of physical evidence. Tung denied all allegations but was convicted at Nottingham Crown Court. Nottinghamshire Police highlighted the seriousness of the offences and encouraged other victims of historic abuse to come forward.

Four women who survived long-term sexual abuse by Paul Mundy spoke publicly after his conviction for 24 rape and sexual assault offences. Their testimony led to a prison sentence of more than 30 years following proceedings at Sheffield Crown Court. Police investigators highlighted the victims' courage and encouraged others affected by past sexual abuse to report offences, stressing that support is available regardless of when crimes occurred.

A new private wellness resort named Lake Y has opened in Auckley, Doncaster, offering open-water swimming, paddle-boarding, padel tennis, yoga, pilates and calisthenics facilities. The resort features a lakeside café, social events, and upcoming additions such as a sunken sauna, outdoor training area, fitness suite and luxury accommodation. Memberships and limited day passes are available, with access open to those aged 12 and above.

Rail services around Doncaster were disrupted after a person was struck by a train between Hitchin and Welwyn Garden City, closing lines between Peterborough or Royston and London. Major delays and cancellations were expected until mid-afternoon, with passengers advised to use alternative operators and plan for extended travel times. Support information for those affected was provided, and emergency services were on site.

Three South Yorkshire police officers received Bravery Awards for rescuing a motorcyclist who burst into flames after a crash during a pursuit in Doncaster. PCs Wes Turner, Michael Ramsden and Matt Aris pulled the man from the burning bike, extinguished the fire and provided first aid until paramedics arrived. The rider survived after months of treatment. An IOPC investigation found the pursuit was well managed. The officers, who sustained burns and psychological impact, were commended for their courage and will attend the 2026 South Yorkshire Police Federation Bravery Awards, with one to advance to the national ceremony in July.

A 34-year-old man suffered life-changing injuries after being shot while walking on parkland in Doncaster’s Highfields area. Police are investigating and believe the incident may be linked to another firearms discharge in nearby Scawthorpe the previous day. Officers are appealing for sightings of a grey Land Rover Discovery seen in the area at the time. Emergency services, including Yorkshire Air Ambulance, responded, and increased neighbourhood patrols are in place as enquiries continue.

A senior NHS midwife, Katie Windle, was struck off by the Nursing and Midwifery Council after dismissing a woman in labour as having a urinary tract infection and providing what was described as appalling, neglectful care. The patient’s condition was misjudged despite severe pain, leading an out‑of‑hours operator to call an ambulance. The tribunal found Windle’s behaviour, including dismissive and sarcastic remarks, to be fundamentally incompatible with professional standards, and noted additional complaints from other patients.

Emergency services responded to a shooting in the Highfields area of Doncaster on the evening of May 18, marking the second such incident in the town that day. Police and an air ambulance were dispatched, and further details have been requested from authorities.

Police are investigating a firearms incident in Doncaster after shots were fired at a property on Amersall Crescent shortly after midnight. Armed officers found evidence of gunfire at two addresses, with no injuries but property damage reported. Detectives are working to establish the circumstances, and additional neighbourhood patrols have been deployed. Authorities urge anyone with information to contact police or Crimestoppers anonymously to help identify those responsible.

South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority has awarded £6.9 million to Victim Support to continue and expand crime victim support services across the region. The funding will enhance specialist support for fraud victims, children, young people and those affected by non‑domestic abuse stalking, with a continued focus on mental health, wellbeing and equality. Officials highlight the organisation’s strong partnerships and commitment to trauma‑informed care. Victim Support plans to use the investment to provide tailored assistance and maintain trusted relationships across communities, supported by additional online resources through My Support Space.

Four South Yorkshire Police firearms officers received South Yorkshire Police Federation Bravery Awards for saving a woman struck by a train at Doncaster Station in August 2024. The officers climbed under the train to apply tourniquets and provide first aid in extremely confined conditions until paramedics arrived. NHS surgeons later confirmed the woman would have died without their intervention. The officers expressed surprise and humility at the recognition, and the Police Federation praised their courage and professionalism ahead of the 2026 awards event.

South Yorkshire Police will escort a slow‑moving 510‑tonne transformer from the M1 junction 28 to Goole Docks, causing significant delays on the M1, M18 and M62. The load will travel at around eight miles per hour, use full carriageway width at times and require temporary closures and diversions, including an evening closure of the M62 westbound entry slip from the M18. Drivers are advised to expect tailbacks, follow police instructions and consider alternative routes.

A man in his 60s suffered serious arm injuries requiring plastic surgery after being attacked by a loose dog on Plumpton Avenue in Doncaster. Police, unable to identify the dog or its owner despite initial inquiries, issued an appeal describing the animal as a large, stocky, sandy‑coloured breed and asked the public for information quoting incident number 379 of 6 May 2026.

Police in Doncaster arrested nine people and seized suspected stolen vehicles, weapons and drugs during coordinated raids targeting vehicle crime and antisocial behaviour. The operation followed community reports that helped drive a 53 percent reduction in motorbike thefts through Operation Spoke Alpha. Officers recovered shotguns, knives, swords, air weapons, Class A and B drugs and an unregistered XL Bully. Speed enforcement and patrols were also carried out across hotspot areas, with 18 speeding tickets issued. Authorities encouraged residents to continue reporting vehicle crime and dangerous off‑road bike activity through official channels or anonymously via Crimestoppers.

Urgent and emergency care at Doncaster Royal Infirmary was again rated as requiring improvement following Care Quality Commission inspections that found ongoing safety risks, long delays, staffing issues, inadequate oversight and unclean areas. Some positive elements were noted, including kind staff and appropriate support for patients with complex or mental health needs. Due to limited progress after a follow‑up visit, additional enforcement action was initiated and the trust was instructed to provide an action plan to address the failings, while hospital leadership acknowledged concerns and committed to improvements.

Rock N Roll Circus announced new charity partnerships for its 2026 festivals in Sheffield and Norwich, collaborating with Weston Park Cancer Charity and Big C Cancer Charity to support people affected by cancer. Both organisations will be integrated into festival activities through awareness hubs, fundraising initiatives, and on‑site engagement. Leaders from the charities and the festival highlighted the importance of raising awareness and supporting cancer services. The events will take place in August 2026, with ticket buyers able to donate to either charity at purchase.

Yorkshire Wildlife Park prepares for a busy, sunny Bank Holiday weekend by showcasing several new animal arrivals, including capybaras, a newborn titi monkey and a recently introduced red panda. The park, recently named the UK’s second most popular zoo by TripAdvisor, highlights its conservation efforts and expanding attractions, such as the Amazonas reserve, the Himalayan Pass, the Pangea dinosaur experience and amenities at The Yorkshire Hive and Hex Wildlife Hotel.

Yorkshire Wildlife Park announced it has been ranked the third best zoo and wildlife park in the UK by Tripadvisor, crediting its team and visitor support for the achievement. The park expressed appreciation for being recognized alongside top attractions such as Chester Zoo, Hoo Zoo and Dinosaur World, West Midlands Safari Park and Whipsnade Zoo, highlighting their shared work in conservation and education.

A 44‑year‑old prolific shoplifter from Doncaster, Lee Hamshaw, received a one‑year‑nine‑month prison sentence at Sheffield Crown Court for multiple thefts, affray and assaulting a security guard. He was also issued a three‑year Criminal Behaviour Order banning him from several major retailers in Doncaster upon release. Police emphasised the impact of shoplifting on local businesses and encouraged the public to report incidents and any breaches of the order to support community safety.

David Scales is leaving his role as Principal of Astrea Academy Woodfields in Doncaster after leading significant improvements, including the school’s first-ever Ofsted Good rating and record GCSE results. His tenure included initiatives in attendance, academic performance, and arts and music programs. Victoria Southall, the current Vice Principal, will serve as Interim Principal. Astrea Academy Trust leaders praised Scales’ impact and congratulated him on his new role in Sheffield.