A ceremonial county in North West England
Two riders have died following cross-country accidents at Swalcliffe Park in Oxfordshire and Penrith in Cumbria. British Eventing will review the incidents; both horses are unharmed. The events were abandoned for the day and the sport is mourning the losses across its community. The updates come after riders’ deaths at Aston-le-Walls last year.
The National Trust says a sapling from the Sycamore Gap tree, planted in Wray Castle, Cumbria, has been stolen between 9 and 16 June. The theft follows the 2023 felling of the original iconic tree and the sentencing of two men. Police are investigating and appeal for information. The sapling was part of a UK-wide restoration effort.
The Guardian reports on forced adoptions and the government’s formal apology. Survivors say the apology is a milestone but demand tangible support, with personal stories of loss and struggle highlighted. The coverage includes reactions from campaigners and experts.
The IUCN red list shows growing threats to desert rain frogs and deep-sea vent molluscs from mining and energy developments. Some species are stabilizing due to conservation, but many face extinction without stronger protections; the news comes amid a broader assessment of biodiversity loss and conservation efforts.
A 46-year-old man has been charged with the murder of Kirandeep Kaur after a dawn attack at a Hayes home. The suspect allegedly attacked a 24-year-old woman, then jumped from a window, injuring both ankles. He is due to appear at the Old Bailey with a plea hearing set for October 1.
The Interior Department has finalized rules that require individualized protection plans for species added to the threatened list and mandate economic analyses for critical habitat. Critics warn the move could hamper wildlife recovery, while supporters say it balances conservation with development. Several species, including monarch butterflies and the grizzly bear, are cited in ongoing debates.