A Somerset town with a long history and current events profile
A convergence of UK maternity reforms is unfolding as ministers pledge a return to national standards, addressing underperformance and racial disparities. The oversight aims to end postcode lotteries, with patient experience and early-warning metrics guiding care. The government faces pressure from reports into Nottingham and Shrewsbury/Telford, and from unions calling for culture change.
Maternity services at North Devon District Hospital in Barnstaple have been suspended due to staffing shortages, forcing expectant families to consider long journeys to Exeter or Taunton. Trust leaders say the move is temporary and focused on safety, with other maternity services continuing elsewhere at the Royal Devon site.
Moeen Ali has retired from international cricket and is preparing for a coaching career. He is coaching with club and franchise teams while eyeing England duty in the future, saying his ultimate dream is to coach England and that he will gain experience after this winter.
A husband has admitted a string of offences including rape and sexual assault against his wife, with a separate defendant also admitting multiple charges. The case, heard at Manchester Minshull Street Crown Court, involves 13 others and spans 2018 to 2025. The trial for remaining defendants is due to open in October.