A ceremonial English county, dense in parts, rural in others
Two recent UK investigations have highlighted persistent failures to protect victims of sexual abuse and exploitation. A London woman has described how a partner used intimate images to control her, while survivors from Skircoat Lodge have criticised Calderdale Council's response after a trial of facts found historic abuse. Campaigners have also exposed how a convicted sex offender used repeated name changes to start new relationships.
Parents and teachers have shared practical steps to help children handle school transitions. Specialists and families say scheduling playdates, connecting children with older students, mapping routes and encouraging early involvement in clubs or sports reduce anxiety and build friendships before the term begins.
A wave of measures has expanded support for families as the new term begins: free school meals for all Universal Credit households, more free breakfast clubs, cheaper uniforms through branded-item limits, and thousands of extra childcare places. The changes aim to ease the financial squeeze and ensure children start classes ready to learn.
Princess Diana’s black Christina Stambolian evening dress, worn in 1994 as a public response to Charles’s affair, is returning to Sotheby’s for auction with a conservative estimate around $200,000. The item will tour displays in London, Hong Kong, Geneva and New York ahead of a December sale, with portions of proceeds benefiting NHS Lothian Charity.
A catastrophic flood, triggered by a glacier collapse, has killed over 1,100 people and left about 4,000 missing across Nepal and Tibet. Authorities warn of a second wave as rescue operations persist and damage to tourism and hydropower compounds the crisis. Foreigners account for hundreds of missing, complicating an already fragile regional response.
A long-running study of carrion crows uses tiny microphones and artificial intelligence to decode their complex vocalizations, revealing thousands of hours of calls from birds and brood parasites. The researchers say the work advances understanding of crow communication and behavior.
The Guardian reports on renewed calls for an inclusion-led overhaul of SEND in England, with debates over funding, mainstream provision, and the broader care economy. Advocates argue for infrastructure and staffing improvements, while critics warn that debt-forgiveness schemes will not fix working conditions or pay.
Giant pumpkin growers across Britain are pressing on despite drought, health setbacks and logistical challenges. A Maldon grower has a 1,200lb pumpkin, while Staffordshire champions eye a new record at the Malvern show. The community and seeds of competition drive the giant-vegetable scene.
Masked men organised by a new far‑right network have blocked roads at Dover and Portsmouth over the past week, disrupting port traffic and confronting police as migrants arrived. Authorities have criticised policing failures and ministers have urged forces to use powers to curb face coverings and public‑order risks. Groups operate through encrypted social channels and present a disciplined, paramilitary style.
Catherine, Princess of Wales, has completed the National Three Peaks Challenge to raise funds for a new Centre for Holistic Wellbeing and Recovery at the Royal Marsden. She has met patients and praised the hospital’s care during a visit after announcing she is in remission. The event supports a programme offering holistic care alongside clinical treatment.
The English wine sector is expanding as heat and drought spur earlier harvests and drive investment, with Essex’s Crouch Valley and other regions drawing international attention as producers diversify into red varieties.
A 37-year-old defendant, unnamed publicly, has postponed plea proceedings in a Cypriot court after his family attended. He faces a charge of causing death by negligent and careless actions after a child fell from a fourth-floor hotel window during a July vacation in Paphos. The prosecution says the case must proceed; the defendant may travel between Cyprus and the UK if needed.
The 24-year-old batsman, named in reports as Robin Das, has been charged with two counts of rape following an incident investigated by police. He is currently suspended by Essex County Cricket Club while legal proceedings continue.
Independent Moray councillor Neil McLennan continues representing Buckie ward while living in Cairo, raising questions about constituency access. He remains entitled to a Moray Council salary as he works remotely, while official guidance suggests attendees should spend time with constituents.
A BBC Business profile and BBC News interviews reveal a 17-year-old actor from Burnham-on-Crouch is joining the cast of the upcoming Harry Potter series as Dobby in season 2. The teen has balanced schooling with a rising acting career, including a Bafta-winning performance and recent roles in Slow Horses and various projects.
Robotaxis are expanding in London with Uber and Wayve testing, while unions protest and regulators debate powers. London’s transport body is cautious, stressing safety and oversight amid calls for stronger government authority and potential job losses for drivers.
ITV's undercover investigation has exposed Reform UK councillors and candidates making racist, misogynistic and violent language ahead of local elections. Several members have resigned or been suspended as Nigel Farage defends vetting. Police are examining party finances amid the fallout.
Joshua Foster has been sentenced in Cyprus after pleading guilty to causing death through a reckless act that led to a toddler’s fatal fall from a fourth‑floor window during a family holiday at the King Evelthon Beach Hotel and Resort in Chlorakas.
Drones have blurred traditional battle lines in Ukraine, forcing soldiers into a kill zone where months-long rotations replace brief missions. Droned surveillance and precision strikes have altered tactics, logistics, and civilian risks, while mine clearance and air-defence networks struggle to adapt.
Independent Home Secretary-led review will examine missed opportunities to prevent Henry Nowak’s murder and how his family were treated, following killer Digwa’s conviction. The investigation will look at police responses, health and local authorities, and the work of the IOPC.