Taite Johnson

Piers Morgan responded to reports that Prince Harry and Meghan Markle will move back to the UK with their children by saying, “I may have to emigrate to the US.” The couple are reportedly planning to live in a private property outside London while remaining non-working royals and private citizens. Their children are expected to attend British schools, and King Charles III is said to welcome spending more time with them. The move follows Harry and Meghan's 2020 withdrawal from senior royal duties and comes as preparations continue for the 2027 Invictus Games in Birmingham.

The Competition and Markets Authority has opened investigations into Trainline, Virgin Atlantic and RED Driving School over alleged drip pricing, in which mandatory charges are added or separated during the purchasing process. The CMA is examining fees on Trainline train and coach bookings, resort fees and local taxes on Virgin Atlantic package holidays, and booking and digital fees for RED driving lessons. The companies have received advisory letters, and if they are found to have broken consumer law, they could be required to compensate affected customers and face fines of up to 10% of global turnover.

Retired pilot Steve Scheibner advises passengers to bring a sweatshirt or coat on every flight because cabin temperatures can vary considerably, regardless of the weather outside. He explains that pilots historically controlled cabin temperature from the cockpit, while newer aircraft such as the Boeing 777 and 787 give more control to flight attendants. Scheibner also warns passengers not to store valuable belongings in seat-back pockets, which he describes as difficult places from which to recover lost items.

Jason Mulhern, 57, was sentenced to eight months in prison suspended for 18 months after drunkenly abusing Jet2 cabin crew and calling them Nazis during a flight from Manchester to Dalaman. The captain had him and his wife removed, but the resulting delay caused the flight to be cancelled when safe flying-hour restrictions were reached, affecting about 300 passengers departing Manchester and another 300 awaiting the return flight in Turkey. Mulhern must complete rehabilitation activities, abstain from alcohol for 120 days, perform 300 hours of unpaid work and pay £500 in costs; Jet2 is seeking £44,710 in compensation and has banned him for life.

The Met Office has warned of a risk of flooding in north Wales overnight Wednesday into Thursday, with 30–35mm of rain possible. Further showers and thundery downpours are forecast across parts of north, central and south Wales on Thursday and Friday. The rain follows Wales’s driest July on record, while northerly winds are expected to bring cooler-than-average temperatures and relief from the summer heat.

A mature 12-metre wild cherry tree fell across Eclipse Street and System Street in Cardiff’s Adamsdown area, blocking the road and footway and damaging two BT overhead cables. Residents lost internet access for about four hours. Cardiff Council sent three arborists to remove the tree, while a BT engineer secured the cables. One girl suffered minor injuries after riding her bike into the fallen tree, and both streets were later reopened.

Matthew Roberts said he had to restrain a pocket bully-type dog after it attacked his Labrador, Parker, on Halkyn Road in Flint. Parker suffered soft-tissue and shoulder-bone injuries and required £700 of veterinary treatment. Roberts complained that North Wales Police returned the seized dog to its owner within hours and had not done enough to assess the risk to other people and animals. Police said no person was injured, the incident did not meet the prosecution threshold under the Dangerous Dogs Act, and officers had seized and later returned the dog while providing preventative safeguarding advice.

A Southern train travelling from London Victoria to Eastbourne derailed near Lewes, with three carriages overturning and around 40 passengers initially trapped. All passengers were evacuated, while two people sustained serious injuries and nine others suffered less serious injuries. British Transport Police, ambulance crews, firefighters and other emergency services attended, and rail disruption between Lewes and Haywards Heath was expected to continue until around 10pm.

Anthony Jones, a 56-year-old man from Brecon, died in hospital from injuries sustained during alleged violent disorder in Pontnewynydd near Pontypool on August 6. Police believe the incident involved members of rival motorcycle clubs, the Hells Angels and the Vikings, and have launched a murder investigation. His family described him as a devoted husband, father and grandfather and asked for privacy as they grieve. Seven men have been arrested, while the investigation remains ongoing.

Verdi's, the family-run café in Swansea, has remained closed since a fire severely damaged the venue on July 29. Long-standing employee Guiseppe said reopening before the end of 2026 appears unlikely and that the café may not return until Easter 2027. The team said the cause of the fire remains unknown but promised to rebuild and return stronger, thanking customers for their continued support.

Live updates report the winning numbers for the August 11 EuroMillions and Thunderball draws. The EuroMillions numbers were 3, 11, 17, 46 and 48, with Lucky Star 2; the Thunderball numbers were 3, 10, 20, 25 and 28, with Thunderball 7. The article also explains prize-matching rules, jackpot limits and the UK’s biggest recent EuroMillions wins.

Wales is expected to experience further hot and sunny weather, with temperatures reaching up to 33°C in Cardiff, Carmarthen and Wrexham during the week. The Met Office forecasts a brief shift toward fresher, cloudier conditions and possible rain later in August, following a prolonged dry period and drought. From late August into early September, high pressure is expected to bring generally drier-than-average conditions, above-average temperatures and the possibility of renewed heatwaves, particularly in southern parts of the UK.

A 58-year-old motorcyclist died at the scene of a collision involving a motorbike and a car on the A470 Crimea Pass between Dolwyddelan and Blaenau Ffestiniog in Gwynedd on 9 August 2026. North Wales Police, fire and rescue, and ambulance services attended, and the road was closed for several hours. Police are appealing for witnesses and anyone with CCTV or dashcam footage, while the coroner has been informed and specialist officers are supporting the victim’s family.

Blackpill Lido in Swansea is expected to remain closed for several more days because water quality has not yet reached the required standard. Swansea Council says recent tests show improvement, but further testing and other measures are needed before a possible reopening later in the week. The lido has already faced repeated setbacks this year, including theft of water sprinklers, pool-floor damage and a two-month maintenance closure.

A wildfire at Llanwonno and Penrhys near Ferndale, which spread across an area equivalent to more than 500 football pitches and was declared a major incident, was deliberately reignited on August 10 after the original incident had been stood down. South Wales Fire and Rescue Service returned crews to the area, while South Wales Police and its Arson Reduction Team increased patrols. Residents were urged to report suspicious behaviour to police and any active fires to emergency services.

The UK Health Security Agency has warned people in Wales not to look directly at next week’s partial solar eclipse, even through cloud cover, because intense sunlight can damage the retina without causing pain. Ordinary sunglasses are not sufficient; viewers should use genuine, undamaged eclipse glasses or handheld solar viewers meeting ISO 12312-2:2015(E), while pinhole projection methods offer equipment-free alternatives. The eclipse will cover about 90% of the Sun and will be visible in Wales from 6:13 p.m. to 8:06 p.m. on August 12, 2026.

Cardiff Airport retained the UK Civil Aviation Authority’s highest accessibility rating, placing it above Heathrow and Stansted, which were rated merely “good.” The 2025/26 assessment praised Cardiff’s near-perfect compliance with waiting-time standards, strong passenger survey results and free accessible minibus service for passengers with reduced mobility. Assistance demand reached 5.9 million passengers across UK airports in 2025, up 115.8% since 2015, prompting the regulator to urge airports to keep investing despite no airport receiving a failing or improvement-needed rating.

Conwy Council has proposed numerous traffic and parking changes in Llandudno and Craig y Don, including no-waiting and loading restrictions, new taxi and limited-waiting areas, a one-way section of Trinity Avenue, and an overnight motorhome ban on part of Abbey Road. Senedd member Janet Finch-Saunders criticised the scale of the proposals and urged residents and businesses to respond to the public consultation. საბოლო

The Bristol International Balloon Fiesta returns for three days with daily mass ascents at 6am and 6pm, subject to weather, and Night Glow displays at 9pm on Friday and Saturday. Forecasts indicate mostly dry, warm conditions, with temperatures reaching 27°C on Saturday, although visitors are advised to protect themselves from high UV levels. Night Glow tickets are sold out, but spectators can watch from outside the arena. Car parks should be pre-booked, last entry is expected around 5:30pm, and the Clifton Suspension Bridge will close from 6pm to midnight on both Night Glow evenings, with traffic delays likely afterward.

Cardiff will host the 2026 FA Community Shield between Arsenal and Manchester City at Principality Stadium on Sunday, August 16. City-centre road closures will begin as early as 7am, with wider closures from 10am until 8pm and additional restrictions around Penarth Road, Station Terrace and the Civic Centre. Transport for Wales will provide extra rail capacity and direct some supporters to Cardiff Queen Street, while Cardiff Bus Interchange and taxi ranks will close or operate with restricted hours. Drivers are warned to expect heavy traffic, particularly on the M4.

Zina, who keeps nearly 100 Icelandic sheep at a smallholding near Conwy, has launched a GoFundMe campaign after prolonged hot and dry weather left the pasture unusable and raised hay costs to about £50 a day. Her wool-based business has lost its profitability, and she says the family is struggling with basic expenses and has had to offer some sheep for sale. Although the fundraiser has raised about £2,000 from customers and supporters in Wales and abroad, some social-media users accused her of scamming people after she posted a photograph of herself having coffee and a croissant. Zina rejects the accusations, saying she is transparent about her circumstances and is seeking enough support to get through the next few weeks.

Stefan Johnson rescued an unconscious three-year-old boy from a pond at Bryngarw Country Park after spotting him face down in the water. Having completed a first-aid refresher course two weeks earlier, Johnson began chest compressions before nurses Kelsey Pirie and Emma Brown continued CPR until the child began breathing. Paramedics and an air ambulance arrived, and the boy from Newport was taken to hospital in a stable condition. South Wales Police are investigating, while Johnson, Pirie and Brown have been nominated for a Royal Humane Society bravery award. Johnson said the incident has since caused nightmares, but believes first-aid training helped save the child's life.

Gwent Police have renewed their appeal for information about Kyle Vaughan, who disappeared after his silver Peugeot 306 crashed on the A467 between Crosskeys and Risca on December 30, 2012. The missing-person inquiry later became a murder investigation, involving hundreds of enquiries and eight arrests, though nobody was charged. Detectives and Vaughan’s family continue to seek information about his movements and what happened to him.

WalesOnline’s live blog reports breaking news, travel disruptions and weather across Wales. Incidents include road and bridge closures caused by crashes, flooding and police activity; multiple wildfires in Rhondda Cynon Taf; a missing 13-year-old boy; arrests after an alleged weapons-related fight near Cardiff; and a child injured by glass attached to a park slide. The blog also covers sinkhole risks affecting businesses in Rhymney, concerns about kite-fighting on Welsh beaches, and the death of a 17-year-old at the Kendal Calling festival. Weather forecasts indicate a dry, sunny and very warm day followed by a mostly clear, dry night.

A chronological tribute profiles notable figures reported to have died in 2026, including Welsh footballer Terry Yorath, actors Catherine O’Hara, Robert Duvall, Eric Dane and Sam Neill, broadcaster Judith Chalmers, artist David Hockney, singer Bonnie Tyler, politician Ann Widdecombe and wildlife presenter Bill Oddie. The feature also remembers musicians, athletes, television personalities and other public figures, outlining their careers, causes or circumstances of death, and the tributes issued by families, colleagues and organisations.

Wales Online publishes a large selection of funeral notices, memorials and acknowledgements from across Wales, including bilingual Welsh and English tributes. The notices record recent deaths, family relationships, funeral arrangements and charitable donation requests. Several entries also remember individuals’ public service, professional achievements and community contributions, including mental-health campaigner Alan Meudell and sports educator Christine Lloyd.

Pontypridd's Big Welsh Bite Food and Drink Festival returned to Ynyshangharad Memorial Park, attracting hundreds of visitors and more than 100 food and drink vendors. The family-oriented event featured street food, artisan produce, live music, cookery demonstrations, street dancing and a fun fair, with a photo gallery documenting the weekend.

A live roundup of events across Wales reports fires in Newport and Rhondda Cynon Taf, with residents advised to avoid affected areas and keep windows and doors closed. Rail services between Newport and Cardiff faced cancellations and delays, while several roads and sections of the M4 were closed or congested because of fires, crashes, breakdowns and police incidents. Police appealed for information about an assault in Pwllheli and sought help locating missing 42-year-old Jamie Morgan from Monmouthshire. Wales was forecast to have warm, sunny spells with a maximum temperature of 22°C.

A fire near Lighthouse Road in Newport damaged railway signalling and overhead power infrastructure, forcing the cancellation of trains between Newport and Cardiff Central for several hours. Transport for Wales, Great Western Railway and CrossCountry advised passengers not to travel, with only very limited replacement buses available. The line later reopened with limited services, but delays were expected to continue into Sunday while Network Rail investigated the damage. Passenger tickets were made valid for Sunday 2 and Monday 3 August.

The Saturday, August 1 National Lottery draws produced Lotto numbers of 16, 19, 32, 33, 34 and 44 with bonus ball 29 in round one, and 2, 22, 35, 43, 45 and 48 with bonus ball 27 in round two. The Thunderball numbers were 15, 31, 32, 34 and 37, with Thunderball 8. The Lotto jackpot was £5.9 million and the Thunderball jackpot was £500,000. The article also explains the two-round Lotto format and how lottery ticket revenue is distributed.

A car fire caused the westbound M4 between junction 48, Hendy, and Pont Abraham to close while Dyfed-Powys Police and the South Wales Fire Service attended. The road later reopened, but slow-moving traffic and congestion remained in the area.

A crash on Cardiff’s A48 Western Avenue caused a partial closure between Ely roundabout, Fairwater and Llandaff, with traffic building and one lane open in the opposite direction. South Wales Police attended, diverted traffic and advised motorists to avoid the area. Both lanes reopened in both directions at about 1:15pm.

An explosion at the Breedon Group quarry near Gwaelod-y-Garth caused rocks and floodwater to surge into around 15 homes, mostly on Heol Berry. Thirteen households were evacuated, belongings and gardens were destroyed, and several exotic pet birds died, although one escaped bird was rescued. Road closures and a major clean-up operation followed, with Cardiff Council arranging emergency accommodation. Despite the devastation, residents supported one another with practical help and emotional solidarity.

Lucy and Hannah Robertson were heartbroken when their three-year-old cat Charlie disappeared shortly after the family moved to Abercarn in April 2016. More than a decade later, a resident found Charlie living in nearby bushes and took her to a veterinary practice, where her microchip identified the sisters as her owners. Now 13, Charlie recognised Lucy and Hannah immediately and has been brought back to the family’s home in Newport, while Hannah became emotional during the reunion.

Persistent hot and dry weather is placing stress on Welsh rivers, farmland, land and wildlife, prompting Natural Resources Wales to declare drought status in north Wales and the Upper Severn while south-east and south-west Wales remain under prolonged dry weather status. With further heat and little rain forecast, wildfire risk remains elevated, particularly during the school holidays, and visitors are urged to protect ecosystems and prevent fires. Welsh Water has imposed temporary hosepipe restrictions on about 33,000 properties in west Wales because of exceptionally high demand.

Four decades after 25-year-old estate agent Suzy Lamplugh disappeared in Fulham while attending an appointment with a man using the name “Mr Kipper,” police have still not found her body. The Metropolitan Police plans to move the investigation into an inactive phase within 12 months, although new information will continue to be assessed. Prime suspect John Cannan died in prison in 2024, and previous forensic analyses and searches have produced no conclusive evidence. Detective Chief Inspector Teresa Foster hopes advances in artificial intelligence, forensic science or new information from witnesses and relatives could finally resolve the case. Lamplugh’s family continues to support the Suzy Lamplugh Trust, which promotes women’s safety.

Whitbread has announced that all Beefeater restaurants in the UK will close on September 10, while Brewers Fayre venues will shut after dinner service on September 7. Nine Brewers Fayre restaurants and five Beefeater restaurants in Wales are listed for closure, putting jobs and local community facilities at risk. Whitbread plans to cut costs by £250 million and focus more heavily on its Premier Inn hotel business, with some sites potentially converted. A campaign has been launched to save the Bagle Brook restaurant in Baglan.

Weather-model forecasts suggest temperatures in parts of Powys and Gwynedd could fall to around 9°C on 6 August, only days after a heatwave brings temperatures of up to 35°C or higher in parts of the UK. The ECMWF model also predicts colder conditions across northern England and much of Scotland. The Met Office expects increasingly changeable weather in early August, potentially including heavy rain and strong winds before conditions become more settled.

easyJet has released nearly 14 million seats across 78,000 flights for travel from 14 June to 26 September 2027. Martin Lewis advises travelers to check prices early because easyJet uses dynamic pricing and fares may rise as demand increases, while warning that release prices are not guaranteed to be the cheapest. Travelers are encouraged to prepare their travel details, compare alternatives and book promptly if they find a suitable fare.

A £12 million bogie drop facility has entered service at Transport for Wales's Canton depot in Cardiff. The equipment allows engineers to remove, repair and replace wheel and underframe components on site, avoiding the need to send faulty trains elsewhere and potentially returning them to service faster. Funded by the Welsh Government through Transport for Wales, the facility is intended to improve reliability and punctuality across Wales, particularly during autumn and periods of adverse weather.

A man and a 17-year-old boy have been charged with attempted murder and possession of a bladed article following a serious assault on Bath Street in Rhyl on July 23. The injured man was taken by air ambulance to Aintree Hospital, and both defendants appeared at Llandudno Magistrates' Court. North Wales Police said the investigation remains ongoing.

DWP-administered benefits and state pensions due on the August 31, 2026 bank holiday will generally be paid on the preceding working day. The change may affect Universal Credit, Pension Credit, Child Benefit, disability benefits, Carer's Allowance, Employment and Support Allowance and other payments. Claimants are warned that payments will arrive earlier than usual and may need to last longer; those whose money does not arrive should contact the DWP, although its offices may be closed on the bank holiday.

Torfaen Borough Council has approved a £250,000 scheme to install bus-priority traffic signals on the six-mile A4043 route between Pontypool and Blaenavon, where peak journeys can take up to an hour. The project will use part of £6.5 million in UK Government local-growth funding and aims to speed up buses and improve reliability. Councillors welcomed the plan but noted possible frustration among other drivers and discussed extending the system in future. The council also approved funding for cycling trails at Tirpentwys, restoration work at Pwll Du tunnel, training and employment initiatives, while a Blaenavon Engineering Hub has been delayed to a possible 2027 funding stream. Implementation depends on an agreement involving Rhondda Cynon Taf Council and the Welsh Government.

Rain and showers are expected across parts of north and west Wales this weekend after weeks of hot, dry weather, but most of south Wales is forecast to remain dry. Natural Resources Wales has declared drought status in North Wales and the Upper Severn because of heatwaves, wildfires and record-low river flows. The Met Office expects more changeable conditions, including possible heavy rain and strong winds, around the end of July and early August, although temperatures may quickly recover.

Scottish TV personality Gail Porter said she suffered two black eyes, a bruised nose and a cut lip after being knocked over on stairs at a London Tube station while traveling to see Trainspotting the Musical. She said the accident was unintentional, described the scars as superficial, and urged people not to make disrespectful comments about others’ appearance.

New UK cosmetic regulations will restrict TPO, a photoinitiator used in some gel nail systems, from August 15. Manufacturers and importers will no longer be able to place new batches of TPO-containing products on the market from that date, while retailers and distributors will be prohibited from selling or supplying them from February 14, 2027. The ingredient was classified as a Category 1B reproductive toxicant after high-dose animal studies indicated effects on fertility and reproductive development, and it may also cause allergic reactions through repeated contact with uncured gel. Restrictions on 4-MBC and updated limits for methyl salicylate have also been introduced.

Drop-off charges at the UK’s 20 busiest airports have risen by an average of £1.70 to £7 over the past year, according to RAC analysis. London Gatwick and London Stansted are the most expensive for short drop-offs, while London City Airport has the highest per-minute rate at £8 for five minutes. Cardiff Airport is the second cheapest, charging £4.50 for 10 minutes, although this represents a 50% increase; it also offers a free 20-minute option in a nearby car park. The RAC criticized airports for imposing “farewell fees,” warned that barrierless payment systems can lead to fines of up to £100, and advised drivers to check free short-term parking alternatives. Most major EU airports and several international airports do not charge for drop-offs.

Electricity bills in the UK are due to be exempt from VAT between October 1, 2026, and March 31, 2027, initially promising about £45 in annual savings for a typical household. Martin Lewis warns that a projected 5.1% rise in the energy price cap could add roughly £93 and eliminate those savings for standard variable-rate customers, although fixed-rate customers may still benefit. The reduction applies only to electricity, and ten major suppliers have confirmed they will pass it on to customers. The policy is partly funded by redirecting money originally allocated to the digital ID project.

Centrica plans to cut 1,300 jobs, including 500 call‑centre roles in cities such as Cardiff, after reporting reduced earnings and initiating a customer service transformation. The company says the restructuring aims to improve efficiency and support future operations, while continuing investment in engineering roles and apprenticeships. The GMB union criticizes the cuts, claiming the call‑centre jobs are being replaced by AI, a claim Centrica rejects.

Jo Whiley announced the death of her father, Martin Whiley, sharing a tribute describing his difficult childhood, caring nature, and deep love of music. Celebrity friends including Jason Donovan and Zoe Ball offered condolences and support.

An easyJet flight from Tenerife to Liverpool returned to Tenerife after around ten passengers became disruptive, prompting the pilot to request police on arrival. Eight British nationals, including two adults and six minors, were removed, with authorities stating the conflict began between two families in the terminal and continued onboard. No arrests were made. EasyJet highlighted its zero‑tolerance policy for disruptive behaviour and prioritised passenger and crew safety before the flight continued to Liverpool.

A police cordon was set up around Pensarn Beach in Abergele after officers discovered a suspicious item, prompting authorities to close the coastal path and ask the public to avoid the area while the incident was managed.

BBC journalist and broadcaster Ed Stourton has died at 68 following a prostate cancer diagnosis. Known for presenting major BBC radio and television programmes, he also worked at ITN and was a founding member of Channel 4 News. Colleagues praised his expertise and versatility across broadcasting roles. His career included longstanding work on Radio 4’s Today, The World at One and Panorama. He is survived by his wife and four children.

The former Pontypridd police station on Berw Road will be demolished within weeks as part of a wider town-centre redevelopment. Policing operations have moved to temporary locations ahead of the opening of a new station on Taff Street. Rhondda Cynon Taf Council plans include improved public space, upgraded transport links and potential new residential and commercial uses. The demolition, supported by Welsh Government funding, will be carried out by contractor Prichards, with road and parking details to follow as arrangements are finalised.

A flying instructor on a Ravenair test flight traced the words “I’m bored” in the sky over Wales, a pattern later spotted on Flightradar24. The two‑hour flight followed a component replacement on a Piper Tomahawk departing from Liverpool. Ravenair’s operations manager said the pilot was not in trouble and that the stunt required considerable skill, noting the aircraft returned safely and the test confirmed everything was functioning correctly.

A silver Nissan Qashqai crashed into fences and a wall on the Great Orme in Llandudno, prompting a multi‑agency emergency response. The driver, reported to have been driving erratically beforehand, was airlifted to hospital with serious injuries. North Wales Police appealed for witnesses and any dash‑cam or mobile footage to support the investigation.

Volunteer coastguards in Wales may reduce or end their lifesaving work after the Maritime and Coastguard Agency ended hourly payments following a legal ruling that created unintended worker status. Coastguard officers say the loss of pay could make it difficult to continue responding to emergencies, and a leaked survey suggests one in four volunteers may cut back or quit. The GMB Union warns the cuts will damage a critical emergency service, while the agency says it must revise the volunteer model to comply with the tribunal decision and will continue providing training, equipment and support.

Hundreds of blue marine creatures known as by-the-wind-sailors washed up on Criccieth beach in Wales, an unusual occurrence for the summer months. The small colonial animals, often mistaken for jellyfish, typically appear between September and March and are carried ashore by strong winds and stormy conditions. The Wildlife Trust describes them as distinctive deep-blue organisms with a sail-like structure used for movement. A beachgoer reported seeing large numbers despite never encountering them before.

A petition with nearly 3,500 signatures urges Pembrokeshire County Council to block a development scheme allowing a couple to breed guinea pigs for meat under a One Planet Development plan. The campaign, led by Adam Shaw of the Herbivore Club, argues that guinea pigs are widely regarded as pets and should not be approved as a food source. Supporters describe the practice as barbaric. The council says it will respond according to its petitions process while the petition remains open.

Cardiff will introduce Wales’ first visitor levy, requiring accommodation providers to add a nightly charge of 75p or £1.30 per guest on bookings made from September 28 for stays beginning April 2027. The Welsh Government estimates £3.5 million in annual revenue, which will be reinvested into tourism. The levy applies across hotels, B&Bs, self‑catering lets, hostels, and camping or caravan sites, with VAT charged when applicable. The scheme was approved following public consultation showing majority support.

A Land Rover Discovery driven by Stephen Harris exploded on Tyndall Street in Cardiff after mechanical failure caused smoke, brake failure and an engine surge. Harris was rescued from the burning vehicle by passerby Martin Hancock moments before the tyres exploded. Emergency services responded, and Harris was later treated at Royal Glamorgan Hospital for lung damage from smoke inhalation. He expressed gratitude to his rescuer and a nearby hotel manager who assisted him after the incident.

Virgin Media received a £28 million fine after Ofcom found it had used tactics such as call‑dropping, unnecessary transfers and pressure to deter customers from cancelling contracts between 2022 and 2024. The regulator said the company’s commission structure incentivised these behaviours and that Virgin Media did not fully cooperate with the investigation. Virgin Media apologised and said it has since overhauled its customer service, citing falling complaint levels. Ofcom introduced new safeguards, including a streamlined switching process, to prevent similar issues in the future.

Global Vision International, a UK-based travel and conservation organisation, has ceased trading after 28 years and is entering liquidation, cancelling all current and future programmes. CEO Andrew Valentine expressed regret over the impact on staff, customers and partners, emphasising the organisation’s legacy in conservation and community work. Affected participants will receive formal guidance on the claims process, and on-the-ground staff are supporting travellers as they depart. The closure adds to a series of British travel businesses shutting down this year.

Welsh Mountain Zoo announced the unexpected death of Mango, a young male capybara that arrived in May and had recently been named through a public campaign. Keepers and staff expressed sadness while investigators await veterinary findings to determine the cause of death. The capybara habitat is temporarily closed as the zoo continues its review.

Weather maps indicate that hot conditions will persist across Wales, with temperatures reaching the high 20s and low 30s over the coming days. The Met Office expects extensive sunshine and light winds but warns of increasing humidity and a rising chance of showers or isolated thunderstorms later in the week. Southern areas may see prolonged heatwave conditions into mid‑July, while northern regions could experience cooler Atlantic air and scattered storms. Temperatures are forecast to remain above seasonal averages into the following week.

Lauren Bennett, singer with GRL and collaborator with LMFAO and the Pussycat Dolls, has died at 37. Tributes from former bandmates and fellow performers highlight her musical impact and personal warmth. Her career included work with The Paradiso Girls, solo projects, and major chart successes such as Party Rock Anthem and Ugly Heart. Bennett was also involved in mental health advocacy following bandmate Simone Battle’s death. She is survived by her partner Kenny Wormald and their daughter Harlow.

A third heatwave is forecast to affect Wales, with temperatures expected to rise into the mid-30s and persist into mid-July. Southern areas are set to experience the highest temperatures, with forecasts of extensive sunshine and light winds. BBC presenter Derek Brockway noted that the heatwave will be less humid than June’s record-breaking event but longer lasting. The Met Office added that warm conditions will continue, with increasing humidity and possible showers or thunderstorms, though next week will remain warm and dry.

Warm summer conditions increase fly and maggot problems in household bins, but a social media home‑care creator recommends sprinkling cayenne pepper and cinnamon in the base of bins to deter insects. Cayenne pepper’s capsaicin irritates flies and disrupts their senses, while cinnamon’s natural oils discourage egg‑laying. Maintaining cleanliness, covering food and using sealed waste systems further reduces fly activity.

Public consultation shows overwhelming support for a proposed high‑speed, zero‑emission ferry between Swansea and Devon, developed by Swansea Council and Ocean Prime Industries. Plans outline capacity for 350 passengers and up to 32 cars, with speeds targeted at 60 knots and ticket prices starting at £15. A prototype is expected this year, and the service could begin operating by 2030 if approved, with projected revenues reaching up to £382 million for a full fleet.

The oral Wegovy semaglutide weight-loss pill has become available in UK high street and online pharmacies after approval from NICE, offering an alternative to the injectable version already used in specialist NHS services. Boots and Superdrug are among the first retailers to provide it, with Boots emphasising its expanded support for weight management. The pill suppresses appetite by mimicking the GLP‑1 hormone and is available to adults with a BMI of 30 or above, or 27 with a weight‑related condition. Dosing begins at 1.5mg daily and increases gradually, and side effects primarily involve gastrointestinal symptoms, which the MHRA advises reporting through its Yellow Card scheme.

British travellers entering the Schengen area now face mandatory biometric registration under the EU Entry/Exit System, causing long delays and leading some to miss flights and incur replacement ticket costs. Passengers are urged to arrive early, sign up for airline alerts, carefully review travel documents, and ensure passport validity, as airlines and insurers are not obligated to cover losses caused by EES‑related queues.

A Land Rover Discovery caught fire on Tyndall Street in Cardiff, prompting road closures and bus diversions as South Wales Fire and Rescue Service extinguished the blaze and police managed traffic. The vehicle was severely damaged before being recovered, but traffic continued to move well and the road later fully reopened.

Emergency services responded to an incident in Rhosneigr, Anglesey, where an unconscious person was found in the sand dunes near Traeth Llydan. The Welsh Ambulance Service and two coastguard teams assisted in transporting the individual to an ambulance. Authorities reported that the teams remained on scene until the person was safely transferred and expressed wishes for their recovery.

Millions of pensioners are missing out on Attendance Allowance, a non‑means‑tested disability benefit worth up to £5,959 annually. Martin Lewis urges older people and their families to check eligibility, noting widespread underclaiming and the significant financial impact it can have, including access to additional support such as housing benefit and council tax reductions. The benefit applies to individuals aged 66 and over who need regular care and can be claimed regardless of income or savings. Application support is available from organisations such as Citizens Advice and Age UK, and providing comprehensive information is essential for assessment. Recipients may spend the funds however they choose, and claims cannot be made alongside PIP or DLA.

A woman previously jailed for severely assaulting a four‑week‑old baby, causing permanent brain damage and blindness, has posted online denying responsibility following her release from a reduced six‑year sentence. Despite pleading guilty in 2020, she now claims innocence and directs abusive comments at critics, contradicting medical evidence presented during her conviction. Judges had reduced her original nine‑year sentence, ruling it excessive compared with similar cases, though the court had stressed her lack of remorse and attempts to blame others.

Sky will acquire ITV’s broadcast channels and the ITVX streaming service in a £1.6bn deal, excluding the studio division. Sky says popular ITV programmes will remain free-to-air and promises expanded free sports coverage. Both ITV News and Sky News will continue operating with commitments to public service broadcasting. Sky CEO Dana Strong says the merger will strengthen British television amid industry shifts toward streaming.

Wales is set to experience its third heatwave of the year, with temperatures exceeding 30°C and remaining high through the following week. Met Office forecasts indicate strong sunshine, light winds, and warm nights, partly influenced by unusually warm coastal waters. The warmest day is expected on Friday, with a risk of thunderstorms developing over the weekend as temperatures stay widely very warm to hot, before easing the following week.

Eight beaches in Wales were included in the Sunday Times list of the 50 best in the UK, with Broad Haven South in Pembrokeshire ranked the top in Wales. Travel writer Chris Haslam evaluated over 600 beaches using criteria such as cleanliness, facilities, accessibility, water quality and newly added community engagement. The list also highlighted seven other Welsh beaches across Anglesey, Gwynedd, Ceredigion, Pembrokeshire and Swansea, encouraging UK beach holidays during an ongoing heatwave.

Police officers in Bridgend confronted a man armed with a running chainsaw after he threatened the public and damaged his home while under the influence of substances. Sergeant Peter Williams used a Taser through a smashed window as PC Matthew Reynolds forced entry, seized the chainsaw and detained the man, with PC Gareth Green also involved. Their actions were formally praised for exceptional bravery. Tony Gillespie later received a 10‑month prison sentence for affray, criminal damage and threatening a person with an offensive weapon.

A large collection of recent death notices from across Wales commemorates residents from numerous towns and communities. Each notice provides brief biographical details, funeral arrangements and donation information, offering families an opportunity to honour and remember loved ones while informing the wider community.

A 24-year-old man, Owen Rhys-Jones of Dol-y-Bont, has been charged with attempted murder, dangerous driving, and controlling and coercive behaviour following a single-vehicle crash on the A44 near Capel Bangor. He has been remanded into custody. Dyfed-Powys Police are appealing for witnesses, particularly anyone with video or dashcam footage of a disturbance in the area on June 30, and ask the public to contact them with any relevant information referencing DP-20260630-390.

Pitbull’s upcoming Cardiff performance at Blackweir includes newly announced support acts Fuse ODG and DJ Laz joining previously confirmed Lil Jon. Organisers outline gate times, last entry and expected set times, while an anticipated setlist is inferred from a recent Stockholm show. DEPOT Live’s founder highlights the event as a major party-style concert for the city.

The Euromillions jackpot reached £69 million, with results announced alongside the Thunderball draw offering a £500,000 prize. Background highlights included previous major UK lottery wins, including record‑setting payouts in 2019, 2021 and 2022. Winning numbers for both draws were published live during the evening.

A wildfire broke out in woodland on Llanwonno Mountain in Rhondda Cynon Taf, sending smoke across Ferndale, Porth, Tonypandy, Pontypridd and areas visible from Cardiff. South Wales Fire and Rescue Service, Natural Resources Wales, South Wales Police and the local council responded, while police closed the road between Llanwonno Road and the mountain. Residents were advised to keep windows and doors closed because of the smoke and to avoid the area. Firefighters remained on site the following morning to monitor the blaze and dampen hot spots.