Industrial town in Cheshire, at Mersey crossing; major borough seat
The Scotsman letters reflect on devolution and unity, with readers urging caution on regional governance and warning against disconnected policymaking in the wake of a new prime minister. The debate centers on whether further regional power can be effectively managed within the UK framework.
The world champion has unveiled a mural in Warrington at the Golden Square Shopping Centre to celebrate his string of major titles this year, with his nan spotting the tribute first from a passing bus. He has just clinched the World Matchplay and aims for a clean sweep of majors, eyeing further glory in Orlando before the World Series.
Nathan Owen has been jailed for four years and three months after fabricating a car-acceleration emergency to avoid a finance agreement. Police pursued the Jaguar I-Pace across multiple motorways, but investigations showed the car was functioning and speeds reached up to 86mph before it was stopped.
Police have seized nitrous oxide canisters and ecstasy at Creamfields in Daresbury, Cheshire, ahead of the August bank holiday festival. Officers say more searches will continue as organisers maintain a strict anti-drug policy.
Tim Curry has died at his Los Angeles home on 25 August at age 80, his longtime manager Marcia Hurwitz has confirmed. The English actor had been wheelchair‑bound after a major 2012 stroke and had a history of kidney cancer; the death certificate lists those conditions as contributing factors. He had originated Dr Frank‑N‑Furter in The Rocky Horror Show and enjoyed a six‑decade career across stage, film and voice work.
IPPR data shows a persistent regional divide in job opportunities for 18–24-year-olds. Rotherham faces far fewer vacancies per 1,000 youths than the Cotswolds, with nine of the 10 best areas for youth jobs in the south. The government is under pressure as ministers review Milburn’s findings and consider reforms to apprenticeships and a universal youth service.
Prime Minister Andy Burnham has cancelled engagements following the death of his father, Roy Burnham, who had Alzheimer’s. He has thanked political leaders for condolences and says his drive to reform England’s social-care system is rooted in his father’s experience. He is continuing to govern while navigating the personal loss.
Shaun Edwards has joined England’s Red Roses as a consultant for the remainder of the WXV Global Series, working with defence coach Sarah Hunter as England prepare for matches against New Zealand and other nations. The move follows England’s 26-26 draw with Canada that ended their 39-game winning streak.