A large town in Greater Manchester, at the confluence of the River Goyt and River Tame
Labour’s Bev Craig has won the Greater Manchester mayoralty after a run‑off, defeating Reform UK’s Sian Astley in the country’s largest by‑election. Voter turnout was a historic low, with more than 500,000 ballots cast from around two million eligible voters. Craig, Manchester City Council leader, pledges to defend the region and push for growth while pushing back against division.
Thousands rally as Imran Khan remains in custody; activists allege prolonged confinement and restricted access to medical care. Amnesty International and UN mechanisms raise concerns about treatment in jail, including solitary confinement and restricted legal access. Separate UK probe concerns surround a Pakistani politician's alleged past abuse and international implications.
The Irish-born comedian Jimmy Cricket has died after a short illness, leaving behind decades of family-friendly entertainment across TV, radio and live stages. He is remembered as a sunshine figure who kept audiences laughing with his signature look and gentle humour.
Labour has lost control of several councils across England while Reform UK and the Greens gain ground; the results signal a reshaping of the political landscape ahead of any general election, with the SNP and Plaid Cymru also indicating shifts in power in Scotland and Wales.
Andy Burnham has outlined a plan to devolve power away from Whitehall, establishing a No 10 North unit in Manchester to oversee regional reform, housing, transport and economic policy. He has positioned himself as the voice for English regions and signalled potential changes to where key decisions are made.
Multiple defendants across the UK face charges or have admitted offences related to rape, sexual assault and abuse spanning decades. Cases involve a former pop star, MPs, and a group of men; proceedings are ongoing with investigations, plea changes, and upcoming trials.
Ceasefire talks have stalled as fighting intensifies across Gaza. Mediators are pressing for a durable pause, while civilians bear the brunt of renewed bombardment and displacement.
Bev Craig has been confirmed as the new Greater Manchester mayor after the by-election triggered by Andy Burnham’s move to Parliament. Labour secures a commanding win under the SV system, with Green support rising and Reform UK underperforming in the region. Counts were held amid a regional turnout and a complex second-preference tally.