Vicky Castle

Albert Matraxhiu was sentenced to nine years and 10 months in prison for causing the death of 89-year-old Tom Wallace by dangerous driving in Gillingham. He was travelling at 76mph in a 40mph zone, carried Wallace on the roof of his Mercedes for nearly a mile, then fled and tried to dispose of evidence. Matraxhiu admitted causing death by dangerous driving and perverting the course of justice; he was also banned from driving. Passenger Erald Paci received a 15-month sentence for perverting the course of justice, which he had already served on remand. Wallace's family described the profound and lasting impact of his death, while Kent Police said the sentence provided a measure of justice.

West Surrey Council voted 58–15 to ask the government to rename the new authority West Surrey and South Middlesex Council. Supporters, led by Liberal Democrat councillor Harry Boparai, say the addition would recognise Spelthorne’s historic Middlesex identity and help its 107,000 residents feel represented. Conservative opposition cited a lack of public consultation, inherited council debt and the risk of division. Council leader Paul Follows has asked Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner to approve the change before the authority launches on 1 April 2027.

Metropolitan Police officer PC Benjamin Jackson, 28, has been charged with eight sexual offences involving a girl aged 13 to 15. The alleged offences took place in Surrey and include seven counts of non-penetrative sexual activity and one count of causing or inciting sexual activity. Jackson has been bailed to appear at Guildford Magistrates’ Court on 4 August 2026.

A 15-year-old boy was acquitted of murder, manslaughter and conspiracy to commit robbery following the fatal stabbing of 23-year-old Alfonso Sibley in Ewell in December 2025. Two other teenagers were cleared of conspiracy to commit robbery. Emergency responders and bystanders attempted to save Sibley, who died at the scene. Surrey Police extended condolences to the victim’s family and requested privacy as they continue grieving.

Plans by YouTubers Zoe Sugg and Alfie Deyes to build a donkey sanctuary near Hassocks face delays after a planning report indicated possible Roman or prehistoric remains beneath the site. Mid Sussex District Council has advised that no work begin until archaeological monitoring is approved, following recent Roman discoveries nearby. Some residents have expressed concerns about access, urbanisation and visual impact, and the proposal will go before a future planning committee.