Tom Cockburn

The UK government has extended BAE Systems’ contract under the Future Combat Air System programme with a £708 million investment to accelerate advanced combat-air technology. BAE Systems and its Team Tempest partners will work on artificial intelligence, advanced software, digital engineering and other next-generation defence capabilities, involving more than 4,500 workers and around 600 companies and academic institutions. The funding is intended to support the UK’s contribution to the Global Combat Air Programme and strengthen national defence, while a separate Defence Investment Plan allocates more than £63 million to AUKUS-related work at BAE’s Barrow submarine shipyard.

Liam Livingstone scored 69 from 40 balls and took two wickets for 14 runs on his debut as captain of London Spirit, but Manchester Super Giants won their opening Hundred match by seven runs at Lord’s. Livingstone was bowled by Sonny Baker with nine runs still needed from three balls. The all-rounder, who moved from Birmingham Phoenix to London Spirit, said the team fell too far behind the required run rate but praised their bowling and described the performance as a decent start. His debut followed a prolific Vitality T20 Blast campaign for Lancashire, in which he scored more than 450 runs and took 12 wickets.

A late-night search was launched near Humphrey Head in Flookburgh after reports that two young people might have been cut off by the tide. Furness and Arnside Coastguard teams, supported by Bay Search & Rescue and a thermal-imaging drone, searched the sea wall, embankment, marshes, gullies and Humphrey Head Point. No one matching the description was found, and no missing people had been reported at the nearby caravan site, airfield or to Cumbria Police. The search was called off at 1:15 a.m. and classified as a false alarm with good intent; coastguard officials thanked the caller and the organizations that assisted.

Michelle Scrogham welcomed the progress of the Public Office (Accountability) Bill, known as the Hillsborough Law, after it passed the House of Commons. She emphasized the significance of the legislation in improving accountability and credited families and campaigners for their long effort. The bill now proceeds to the House of Lords.

A heart‑screening weekend in Barrow, organised by bereaved mother Lesley Mease in memory of her son Wilson, will screen around 200 young people for cardiac conditions. The event, funded through local fundraising efforts including contributions from Transformation 247 gym, highlights the emotional significance and community support behind the initiative. The screening follows the appointment of local MP Michelle Scrogham as chair of the Cardiac Risk in the Young All‑Party Parliamentary Group, a role she accepted in recognition of Lesley and fellow campaigner Donna Parker’s work to raise awareness of sudden cardiac deaths in young people.

St David Aparthotels has opened Parade House, its fourth aparthotel in Barrow, offering eight studio apartments with modern amenities aimed at visitors working near BAE Systems or exploring the Lake District. The expansion follows the company’s view that Barrow lacked high-quality apartment‑style accommodation. Regional manager John Edwards highlighted strong customer feedback and high review scores as evidence of growing demand.

Government guidance set to take effect in September 2026 advises that schools should avoid initiating steps related to social gender transition and need not inform parents when a child expresses gender-related concerns unless safeguarding risks are present. Councillor Janet Battye said the council is reviewing the updated guidance and will support schools once it becomes statutory, emphasising parents’ primary role and the need for caution in primary settings alongside clinical involvement in decision-making.

Cumbria Fire and Rescue Service will conduct a training exercise on Duke Street in Barrow between 6:30pm and 9:30pm on July 9, involving several fire engines. Residents are advised not to be alarmed by the increased presence of emergency vehicles.

Veterans, reservists and serving personnel are invited to apply for a fully funded sailing trip from Oban to Barrow-in-Furness scheduled for 2–7 August, timed to coincide with the Royal Port of Barrow Festival of the Sea. Barrow Town Council is offering ten places as a way to honor the community’s military ties. Participants will return in time for the festival on 8–9 August, which will feature family‑friendly entertainment along the waterfront. Interested applicants are encouraged to contact the council for details and to apply.

United Utilities denied a sewage overflow at Sandy Gap on June 26 after app screenshots indicated pollution warnings, stating that only other Barrow-area assets operated briefly due to heavy rainfall. The company highlighted ongoing investment of £100 million to upgrade storm overflows and improve water quality around Walney, the Irish Sea and Morecambe Bay.

Pubs and venues across Barrow are preparing to open through the night for England’s 1am World Cup match against Mexico after the government extended licensing hours nationally. Local landlords expect varied turnout but welcome the opportunity, citing economic benefits and strong community interest. Trade groups broadly support the decision, though CAMRA notes the burden late hours may pose for some pubs. Several Barrow establishments, including The Harbour Inn, Barrow Raiders’ fanzone and The Farmers Arms, plan to host fans for the match.

More than £4,000 has been raised through a Crowdfunder campaign to support the family of 11‑year‑old Jake Waddingham from Barrow after he was diagnosed with a brain tumour. Jake has undergone surgery in Manchester and is awaiting biopsy results while his family manages travel and accommodation costs. His mother and sisters expressed gratitude for the overwhelming community support, and the family plans to use some funds to buy toys for other children in hospital, honouring Jake’s wish to give back. Jake is recovering and his mother encouraged others to seek medical help promptly if experiencing concerning symptoms.

Armed Forces Day 2026 in Barrow featured ceremonies, exhibitions, and public events organised by local councils and institutions. Paintings and memorial displays honoured 27 council staff members lost in the First World War, with artefacts and personal histories included. Mayor Kay Hyland attended multiple events throughout the week and highlighted the town’s pride in military personnel, veterans, reserves, and cadets while emphasising remembrance of those who did not return.