Tristan Pascoe

Drivers continue to ignore road closures around Linwood in the New Forest following a wildfire that led to the A31 being shut on 9 August. Residents fear congestion on the narrow local road could block emergency services, while Hampshire County Council, Forestry England and firefighters warn that bypassing closures endangers people and the forest’s free-roaming animals. Diversions have caused prolonged traffic problems in Ringwood, Fordingbridge, Salisbury and Lyndhurst during the summer tourist season.

Minstead Trust raised more than £10,000 in a single day after bees nesting in the ceiling of its headquarters near Lyndhurst caused structural damage and honey to drip into the reception area. The funds enabled specialists to safely remove the bees and repair the masonry, including removing a honeycomb containing about 1kg of honey. The trust supports adults with disabilities through training, employment and activities.