Ceremonial county in South West England
The latest data show global sea temperatures have reached record highs in August 2026 as El Ni 0o intensifies, driven by natural variability and long-term warming. Forecasts indicate the warmth will continue into 2027, with wide-ranging impacts on weather, seas and economies. Governments warn of increased risks to vulnerable communities and fisheries.
A vessel carrying five people is in distress southwest of Eddystone Lighthouse near Plymouth. A coastguard helicopter, fixed-wing aircraft and RNLI lifeboats have been deployed, and a large search by civilian vessels is ongoing. Three people have been accounted for, with conditions and vessel details still unclear.
The Maritime and Coastguard Agency has announced that the coastguard search for two missing crew from the French-registered trawler Maranello has ended after an intensive operation southwest of the Eddystone Lighthouse. Three others were rescued and hospitalised; the vessel has sunk. The rescue effort continues to coordinate cross-border support.
Big changes to England and Wales’ criminal justice system are moving forward as overcrowding drives policy decisions. Government plans to accelerate prison construction and expand early release schemes have been revised after public backlash and safety concerns. Officials are also deporting foreign prisoners and reviewing IPP sentences to free up space, with new measures to monitor released prisoners.
A series of injury and medical recovery stories shows individuals returning from severe setbacks. From amputations and spinal injuries to heart events and major surgeries, responses highlight resilience, the role of medical teams, and the ongoing journey to regain independence.
Liverpool city region has begun bringing bus services back under public control, starting in St Helens. Fares stay capped at £2, and the network aims to increase frequency, improve evening and weekend services, and better connect hospitals and rail links.
The Royal Foundation-backed On Your Side program expands across UK sport, with institutions like the FA, Premier League, and Team GB adopting a toolkit to encourage conversations, identify warning signs, and direct individuals to help. William, Kane, Holmes and others champion the effort to embed mental health support into everyday sporting life.
Three BBC investigations have revealed repeated failures in UK cancer care: a final review has found harm from misdiagnosis and inappropriate treatment by former Belfast neurologist Michael Watt; Coventry patients were prescribed temozolomide for years with little evidence of benefit; and England is missing cancer-treatment targets, with only 69.9% starting within 62 days. Officials and families are demanding answers.
Prince William has unveiled the Princetown Community Fund, redirecting at least 250,000 to local projects and pledging that Duchy income from 2026-27 will fund community regeneration. The fund, delivered by Devon Communities Together, will grant 500 to 40,000 and supports housing, energy, farming resilience and environmental recovery in Princetown.
A wave of illegal e-bikes and dockless bikes is prompting authorities to intensify enforcement and licensing rules across London and other cities. Seizures have risen, and officials say safety and pavement access are at the heart of the crackdown. Meanwhile, operators face tighter regulation and potential penalties.
The Consumer Council for Water has reported a record rise in complaints to both the watchdog and water companies as bills climb. England and Wales saw the highest year-on-year increase in two decades, with billing and affordability at the heart of public discontent. Regulators affirm ongoing upgrades and accountability across the sector.
Two adjacent farmers in Devon and Scotland reflect a broader shift in farming: one pursues rewilding while the other remains committed to intensive farming. A documentary follows their tensions over three years, revealing how boundaries blur as birds, cattle and soil health intersect with food production and livelihoods.
The government has introduced the biggest overhaul of school food standards in a generation, expanding free school meals and updating nutrition rules to include more fruit, vegetables, fibre and whole grains. The reforms are designed to ensure every pupil benefits from healthier, tastier meals while easing morning routines for families.
Prison governors are weighing plans to install a second bed in rapid deployment cells across multiple facilities to cope with overcrowding. Leaked emails show officials argue for rapid capacity gains, while officials warn this could breach health and safety rules and risk safety.
Campaigners have urged the government to reform or reverse privatisation of the water sector amid protests, petitions and a surge of public concern following a series of sewage pollution incidents and a high-profile documentary.
The government has announced binding national maternity standards through a new taskforce, aiming to end postcode disparities and tackle racial inequalities. The plan follows long‑standing concerns about care quality and recent safety data.
In Exeter, jurors hear how Alexander Lewis-Ranwell was released from custody twice in 24 hours before killing three elderly men in February 2019. Inquests discuss police handling, mental health care, and custody decisions.
A collection of articles examines how natural landscapes—bogs, peatlands and woodlands—shape climate resilience. Guardian Country Diary pieces highlight how native habitats slow floods and store water, while a New York Times piece tours bog landscapes around the world. An economist report contrasts regional water scarcity in Uttarakhand with rainfall-driven resilience in the UK.
Joshua Kerry is charged with preparing acts of terror in connection with the July 2026 murder of Ann Widdecombe. Prosecutors say the investigation linked him to targets including Farage; he appeared in court and remains in custody as the case proceeds. Multiple outlets report the development.
The Liberal Democrats have seen a high-profile resignation as MP Charlie Maynard abandons his Treasury role amid growing discontent with Ed Davey’s leadership. Backbench MPs are split over triple-lock policy and the party’s direction, with some calling for change while others rally behind Davey. The party’s future remains uncertain as talks of a possible no-confidence vote surface.
Exeter end their campaign victory drought with a 34-28 win over Newcastle at Sandy Park, led by Christian Wade’s first-half hat-trick and a late shout from Bachuki Tchumbadze. Jake Dalziel becomes Newcastle’s youngest Prem player, while Wade closes in on the all-time Prem try record as crowds struggle for value.
The home secretary has announced an urgent, independent review of protective security for public life and will expand police support to leaders of political parties who are not MPs, former MPs, peers and party spokespeople. The review, led by Sir Stephen Lovegrove, and a separate probe into MPs’ security by Robert Buckland, aim to strengthen protection in a dangerous environment.
Regulators have warned South West Water over leaking levels 18.5% above forecast amid a severe drought. The firm is deploying acoustic loggers, drones and leak-detection dogs while urging customers to conserve water to protect supplies.
As autumn deepens, households face higher energy bills while experts urge caution for vulnerable groups. Practical tips from experts and shoppers aim to keep homes warm and affordable without compromising health.
The theft of a narrow-headed ant nest from Chudleigh Knighton Heath reserve in Devon has been reported. The nest holds thousands of ants and long-lived queens. Conservationists say the loss threatens the last England population and could set back years of work. Police are investigating and urge public information.