A landlocked English county in the West Midlands
Two teenagers have pleaded guilty to a 2024 cyber-attack on Transport for London that disrupted Oyster services and affected millions of customers. The defendants, linked to the Scattered Spider group, face sentencing in July after admitting conspiring to unauthorised acts against TfL’s systems and, in one case, additional charges relating to US healthcare firms.
Cattle on the West Coast Main Line have blocked tracks near Rugeley, causing widespread delays and cancellations for Avanti West Coast, Lumo, London Northwestern and West Midlands services. The line has been blocked for more than three hours, with disruption expected to last until 4pm. Tickets are being accepted on alternative routes.
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.
Scotland faces a maternity care crisis with hundreds of deaths in five years. An independent review is announced to inspect culture, rural services and safety, while calls grow for a broader safety remit.
The PGA Tour, DP World Tour and Asian Tour have formalised a multi-year alliance through 2029, with some events co-sanctioned again and pathways for Asian players to reach European and Challenge Tour events. The move follows LIV’s weakened position after Saudi funding shifts, and prompts reactions from players such as Rory McIlroy.
LIV Golf is confronting a funding shortfall after the Saudi Public Investment Fund withdraws backing at year-end. The league is seeking about $260 million, with Indianapolis likely to host upcoming events and Michigan deemed unlikely. Investors’ decisions will shape LIV’s 2027 viability.
Chief Constable Chris Noble has resigned just before a misconduct hearing, with a panel ruling the allegations proven but reporting restrictions apply. Becky Riggs remains acting chief constable as oversight calls intensify around police leadership selection.
Britain is facing a spate of wildfires amid drought and heat, prompting a temporary nationwide ban on disposable barbecues. Prime Minister says the move aims to curb fires and protect homes as authorities deploy firefighting planes and consider further emergency support.
A Piper PA-24 has crashed into Seldovia Slough after departing Anchorage, killing the pilot and three passengers. State troopers recovered four bodies after waiting for the tide to recede; the wreckage rested in about 15 feet of water. The NTSB and FAA have opened an investigation; officials have identified the pilot and passengers and sent remains to the state medical examiner.
Public transport upgrades are driving growth as ministers push to cut fares and improve connectivity. A Metroline study shows employers say poor links limit hiring, while a new GBP 2 fare cap is being rolled out. Antisocial behaviour around free travel is prompting new restrictions in Staffordshire, with safety measures under review.
A band of thunderstorms and heavy rain has prompted yellow weather warnings across much of England and Wales. The Met Office warns of disruption to transport and potential flooding, with 81 areas under warning and multiple flood alerts. Homeowners in Perry Barr have already seen flooding, as forecasters anticipate further downpours over the bank holiday weekend.