UK police force in Cheshire dealing with local crime, safeguarding and public order; current focus includes hospital inquiry fallout and policing responses to major incidents in the region.
A wave of data from the Home Office and football bodies shows rising incidents at matches, with officials arguing current policing funding—with taxpayers shouldering about £70m annually—cannot continue. The debate centers on safety, policing costs, and the future role of clubs in funding security outside stadiums.
Police have seized nitrous oxide canisters and ecstasy at Creamfields in Daresbury, Cheshire, ahead of the August bank holiday festival. Officers say more searches will continue as organisers maintain a strict anti-drug policy.
A van was struck by a train at a level crossing in Burscough, Lancashire. The driver died at the scene. Two train passengers suffered minor injuries as emergency services responded. Trains are disrupted with lines blocked between Wigan Wallgate and Southport, and buses are replacing some services.
Police are investigating the theft of around 800 barrels of Guinness valued at about £205,000 from an industrial estate in Runcorn. Trailers connected to two HGVs were used, with both drivers yet to be identified. Dashcam footage and witness accounts are being sought to recover the barrels and complete the investigation.
The Thirlwall Inquiry into the Countess of Chester Hospital has published findings on how safeguarding failures on the neonatal unit occurred and what reforms are proposed, with ongoing attention from the Criminal Cases Review Commission. The report does not reopen Lucy Letby’s convictions but signals potential changes in hospital safeguarding and oversight.
The Thirlwall Inquiry has found a complete failure to protect babies on the Countess of Chester neonatal unit, with executives delaying police involvement and prioritising reviews over safeguarding. The report highlights missed opportunities and calls for accountability as families seek reassurance.
The Thirlwall inquiry has found a complete failure to protect babies at Countess of Chester Hospital, faulting senior management for delays, safeguarding gaps and a toxic culture. The 822-page report calls for major NHS reforms and accountability measures, amid ongoing investigations into Lucy Letby’s convictions.