UK News Live: Twelve regional mayors in England back plan for national active travel network

Twelve of England’s regional mayors have endorsed a plan to establish a national active travel network, with an initial focus on creating safe routes for children to walk, cycle, or scoot to school, according to a report in The Guardian. The cross-party initiative involves signatories from the Labour, Conservative, and Reform UK parties. The scheme is intended to align with wider efforts to devolve transport planning and will involve working with the government body Active Travel England to implement schemes tailored to local areas.

UK Shadow Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds was unable to state the current rate of statutory paternity pay during an LBC radio interview on July 1 promoting a new Labour Party review of parental leave, as per a report in HuffPost. When questioned by presenter Nick Ferrari about the weekly amount, Reynolds admitted he did not know the figure and apologized. Ferrari then stated that the statutory rate is £187.18 per week. The interview was intended to launch Labour's review into parental leave, with Reynolds noting in an official statement that the government had "listened" to campaigners calling for change to a system often described as one of Europe's least generous.

Amid an ongoing heatwave in the UK, health guidance has been issued on how to recognize and treat symptoms of heat-related illnesses like heatstroke in children and babies, according to a report in HuffPost. The advice outlines signs of heat exhaustion, such as headaches, dizziness, excessive sweating, and a temperature of 38°C or above, noting that children may also become floppy and sleepy. Heatstroke, a more severe medical emergency, presents with symptoms including a temperature of 40°C or higher, confusion, rapid breathing, flushed dry skin, and potential loss of consciousness, requiring immediate medical attention. If heat exhaustion is suspected, the person should be moved to a cool place, given plenty of water, and have their skin cooled with sponges or a fan.

Former Wales international Robbie Savage has been appointed the new manager of National League club Forest Green Rovers on a four-year contract, according to a report in The Guardian. The appointment follows his single season managing Macclesfield FC, where he led the team to a league title after previously serving as director of football. Savage acknowledged potential skepticism from fans due to his limited managerial experience but stated he is not afraid of the challenge and has a strong work ethic. He also mentioned seeking advice from established managers like Brendan Rodgers, Martin O’Neill, and Sean Dyche.

Ten British players have advanced to the second round of Wimbledon, matching the country's best performance in the first round since 1976, according to a report in The Guardian. Recent victories by Jack Draper, Dan Evans, and Jack Pinnington Jones contributed to the total. The seven British men who advanced to the second round represent the best result for the country's male players at any Grand Slam event since Wimbledon in 1997.

Helen Louise Hough, who owned and managed a nursing home in Wrexham with her late husband, told the UK Covid-19 inquiry that staff were 'absolutely terrified' due to the lack of testing in the early stages of the pandemic, according to a report in The Guardian. Hough described the immense pressure of running the care facility, which housed up to 40 residents. The testimony also highlighted the personal toll of the crisis, noting that her husband was traumatized by the death of a patient and later killed himself.

Surrey county council is showcasing three mini-gardens, each designed to fit within a standard parking space, at the Hampton Court flower show, according to a report in The Guardian. The initiative aims to demonstrate that reallocating areas typically used for parking can provide greater community benefits. The council's goal is to present these mini-parks as a practical example of how to create public spaces that are less dependent on cars.

Formula One chief executive Stefano Domenicali has stated his desire for the British Grand Prix at Silverstone to remain on the F1 calendar permanently as the event prepares to host a record-breaking crowd of half a million people, according to a report in The Guardian. Domenicali is scheduled to meet with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and other government officials on Wednesday to discuss strengthening the F1 business in Britain and to raise concerns about "Brexit complications" impacting the industry.

A parliamentary committee is investigating the UK Statistics Authority (UKSA) over its supervision of Sir Ian Diamond, who resigned from his post as National Statistician in May 2025, according to a report in the Financial Times. The probe was initiated after a senior MP accused officials of failing to provide adequate oversight, alleging that the former head of the Office for National Statistics (ONS) was allowed to operate "without check or balance." The investigation is focused on the UKSA's role and effectiveness in overseeing the National Statistician.

Victims from several major UK scandals, including the infected blood tragedy, the Post Office Horizon IT case, and the Hillsborough disaster, have joined with military veterans to demand a police investigation, according to a report in The Mirror. The united groups are calling on government ministers to intervene after accusing the Metropolitan Police of failing to investigate an alleged cover-up connected to the infected blood scandal. This collective action increases pressure on both the government and the police to address long-standing calls for accountability regarding the historical scandals.

A 102-year-old World War II veteran from Hull, East Yorkshire, was given a full military send-off by community members and veterans after he passed away with no surviving family, according to a report in the Daily Mail. William 'Bill' Darnell, who lived his entire life in Hull, was left without any relatives after his niece, his last surviving family member, tragically died just two months before him. In response, local residents and veterans' groups came together to ensure he was honoured, attending his funeral en masse to pay their respects.

Mandy and Colin Mackie, whose 18-year-old son Greg died following a suspected drink spiking incident at his university, are campaigning for new legislation to be included in a future Crime and Policing Bill, according to a report in The Mirror. Their goal is to ensure spiking, including so-called 'prank' spiking, is treated with the same severity as knife crime. The campaign seeks to create a specific offense for spiking to ensure it is prosecuted more rigorously than under existing laws, such as the Offences Against the Person Act 1861.

UK Home Secretary Yvette Cooper is set to proscribe three organizations: the neo-Nazi Maniacs Murder Cult (MMC), the white supremacist Russian Imperial Movement (RIM), and the direct-action network Palestine Action, The Mirror said in a report. Following parliamentary approval, the order will make it a criminal offense to belong to, invite support for, or arrange meetings for these groups, carrying a potential prison sentence of up to 10 years. This action is part of the UK's broader counter-extremism strategy targeting threats from across the ideological spectrum.

A man is on trial at Minshull Street Crown Court after denying he caused a crash that resulted in the death of a teenager who was fleeing on a stolen motorbike, according to a report in the Daily Mail. The court heard that in the early hours of January 24, 2023, three individuals broke into Callum Duncan's shed at his home in Reddish, Stockport, where he kept three motorbikes. Duncan is accused of causing the subsequent fatal crash involving the teenager who was escaping with one of the stolen vehicles.

A company owner in the United Kingdom appeared before magistrates on Tuesday charged with fly-tipping, Daily Mail said in a report. The individual is accused of illegally dumping 27 tonnes of untreated waste on a country lane, which allegedly blocked access for local residents.

Radio presenters Vernon Kay and Ken Bruce missed their respective shows on Tuesday due to being stuck on a broken-down train, forcing last-minute schedule changes at BBC Radio 2 and Greatest Hits Radio, according to a report in the Daily Mail. The unexpected railway disruption required both stations to find stand-in presenters to cover the popular broadcast slots for Kay and Bruce.

Somerset & Avon Police seized 21 uninsured vehicles in a targeted operation around the Glastonbury festival site at Worthy Farm, according to a report in Daily Mail. The action was a joint effort with the Motor Insurers' Bureau (MIB). In a statement, the organizations said the operation's goal was to "maximise safer travel for both festivalgoers and the local community" as part of ongoing efforts to combat uninsured driving in the UK.

A video shared on TikTok captures a confrontation in the UK where a cyclist approaches a black cab driver and accuses him of using a mobile phone while his vehicle was stationary in traffic, the Daily Mail said in a report. The footage shows the cyclist speaking to the driver about the alleged offence, an act which is illegal in the UK. The incident highlights ongoing public debate surrounding road safety, distracted driving, and tensions between different road users.

An angler from Christchurch, Dorset, survived a lightning strike while fishing, as per a report in the Daily Mail. The man was reportedly blasted off his feet when lightning first hit a nearby tree before it 'bounced' and struck his carbon fibre fishing rod.

A judge in the UK has determined that an Afghan asylum seeker was legally a child when he arrived in the country, as per a report in Daily Mail. This ruling overturns a Home Office assessment that had concluded the individual was an adult. The initial assessment was reportedly based on observations that the asylum seeker was 'fully developed with grey hairs' and 'lacked a youthful glow'.

The American drinks industry has expressed concern that potential plans by the UK's Labour Party to restrict alcohol advertising would represent a non-tariff barrier to trade, according to a report in the Daily Mail. These proposed public health measures are seen by the industry as a potential complication for any future UK-US trade agreement. While no comprehensive trade deal is currently in place between the two nations, the drinks industry's position suggests that such regulations could become a point of contention in future negotiations.

Police in North Yorkshire are investigating after the county's first-ever fixed speed camera was destroyed overnight, as per a report in Daily Mail. The device, located on the A64 in Sherburn, was reportedly vandalized just hours after it was due to be switched on for the first time.

A court was told that a 15-year-old boy fatally stabbed classmate Harvey Willgoose, also 15, with a five-inch hunting knife at All Saints Catholic High School in Sheffield, according to a report in the Daily Mail. The incident, which occurred on February 3, resulted in Willgoose collapsing less than a minute after being knifed in the heart. Testimony presented in court stated that after the stabbing, the alleged perpetrator declared, "I'm not right in the head."

The TSB brand name is at risk of disappearing in the United Kingdom following a deal for the bank to be integrated into Santander UK, according to a report in BBC. Santander has also indicated that the integration process could result in job cuts.

Six people have been found guilty of a series of violent attacks in the United Kingdom, which included torching the cars of prison staff, as per a report in BBC News. The gang's violent spree resulted in severe injuries, with one victim being left in a coma and another having their hand almost severed. The convictions conclude a case addressing the organized attacks.

A Sheffield court heard that a 68-year-old priest sexually assaulted numerous women from his congregation between 1986 and 1995, according to a report in the Daily Mail. Jurors were told that the priest, who is also known for wearing robes from the film 'The Mission,' had a team of young women dressed in lingerie, referred to as the 'Lycra Nuns,' who tended to his personal needs at his home. The alleged offenses occurred while he was running a religious service in Sheffield during the specified period.

UK Border Force agents have arrested a Gambian national as part of "Operation Bayburn," an investigation into a people smuggling and money laundering ring, according to a report in the Daily Mail. The arrest, which took place in a residential home, follows a months-long investigation that began after a doctored passport was discovered on a migrant at Manchester Airport. The criminal enterprise is alleged to have laundered approximately £3 million in profits.

The UK inland surfing centre, The Wave, resumed operations on Tuesday, July 1, after being abruptly closed last week due to a financial dispute, according to a report in the Daily Mail. The facility is now under the management of the founder of the Boardmasters surfing festival, following a resolution to the unspecified financial issue that had previously halted its business.

A man has been charged with the murder of a woman who died following a traffic incident in Leicester, according to a report in the Daily Mail. Michael Chuwuemeka was charged in connection with the death of Nila Patel. The incident allegedly occurred following a traffic accident on June 24, after which Patel was hospitalized and pronounced dead 48 hours later.

The birth rate in England and Wales has risen for the first time since 2021, with official figures highlighting a 'notable' increase in the number of fathers aged 60 and over, according to a report in BBC. This recent uptick in births follows a period of decline and points to a continuing demographic trend of delayed parenthood. The data suggests potential long-term implications for public services and social planning.

A couple accused of murdering their premature, two-week-old baby allegedly left for a cigarette break as medical staff were attempting to save the child's life, a UK court has heard, according to a report in the Daily Mail. The court was told the alleged incident took place in a special care baby unit where the infant was being treated. The parents are currently on trial facing charges for the baby's murder.

The Premier League and Microsoft have announced a partnership to integrate artificial intelligence into the league's digital platforms to improve fan engagement, according to a report in AP. The collaboration will allow fans to access and analyze information from over 30 seasons of statistics, 300,000 articles, and 9,000 videos. New features will include the ability for fans to ask open-text questions and receive answers in their native language through text and audio translation.

A report by the French NGO Project Play has found that children and babies crossing the Channel to the UK have been teargassed and subjected to dangerous tactics like the discharge of rubber bullets and the slashing of dinghies with knives, The Guardian says in a report. The findings were published as new UK government figures revealed a record 19,982 crossings in the first six months of the year, a 40% increase compared to the same period last year. The report also highlighted that at least 15 children died while attempting the crossing last year, suggesting that increased interventions have made the journey more dangerous.

The UK's Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) has raised an alarm over the integrity of the country's financial markets, noting that almost 40% of public company acquisitions were reported in the media before their formal announcement, as per a report in the Financial Times. These premature disclosures of sensitive, market-moving information can lead to unfair trading advantages and distort market prices. The high frequency of such leaks is seen as a threat to market integrity and could undermine confidence in the UK as a secure financial centre.

The final implementation phase for "Not for EU" food labelling has begun in the United Kingdom, requiring the labels on goods moving from Great Britain to Northern Ireland, according to a report in the Evening Standard. This policy is a key part of the post-Brexit Windsor Framework, designed to provide assurance to the European Union that products not meeting its standards do not enter the single market. The UK government has stated its belief that the labels could become unnecessary if a new, streamlined agrifood deal is finalized with the EU. This final phase completes the rollout of the requirement, which adds compliance and administrative costs for businesses in the food and drink industry.

The United Kingdom will close its main resettlement schemes for Afghans, including the Afghan Relocations and Assistance Policy (ARAP) and the Afghan Citizens Resettlement Scheme (ACRS), to new applications, according to a report in the Evening Standard. A government document states the Defence Secretary considers the schemes, which were established following the Taliban's takeover of Afghanistan in 2021, to have now fulfilled their purpose. The closure is intended to allow the Ministry of Defence to redirect its efforts and resources back to core defence priorities.

The upcoming John Deere Classic could act as a final opportunity for players to qualify for the British Open, with spots being determined by the Official World Golf Ranking next week, according to a report in AP. The R&A no longer offers a direct exemption to the leading finishers at the PGA Tour event. The field for the major tournament, set to take place at Royal Portrush in Northern Ireland from July 17-20, currently stands at 122 players out of a total of 156.

UK government bonds, known as gilts, experienced a rally after Bank of England Governor Andrew Bailey hinted at potentially slowing the pace of the central bank's debt sales, according to a report in the Financial Times. The suggestion to moderate the quantitative tightening (QT) program comes as the BoE faces pressure to do so amid a recent global bond sell-off. This move is seen as a response to challenging market conditions, aimed at ensuring financial stability while the bank continues to reduce its balance sheet.

Bishop Challoner School, an independent school in London, is at risk of closing because of financial difficulties, prompting a last-minute effort from parents to keep it open, according to a report in The Independent. The situation has highlighted concerns from families, particularly those with children who have Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), about potential disruptions. The school's financial strain is being discussed in the context of the UK Labour Party's proposed policy to add a 20% VAT to private school fees, which is a key factor cited in the potential closure.

The UK government's plan to reform the House of Lords by only removing the remaining hereditary peers is not widely supported by the public, according to a report in The Guardian. A recent poll indicates that just 3% of people surveyed back this limited approach. In contrast, 56% of respondents believe the reforms should also include limiting the number of life peer appointments a prime minister can make to the upper chamber, signaling a public desire for more comprehensive changes to the institution.

Several new workplace protections included in the UK's Employment Rights Bill will be delayed and are not scheduled to come into force until 2027, according to a report in BBC. The delay means that employees will have to wait two years to benefit from some of the new measures proposed in the legislation, which aims to amend and introduce new laws related to the workplace.

Top-ranked Jannik Sinner has advanced at Wimbledon after defeating fellow Italian Luca Nardi 6-4, 6-3, 6-0 in their opening match on Tuesday in London, according to a report in AP. Sinner, who was a semifinalist at the All England Club in 2023, is seeking his first Wimbledon title. The victory marked a strong start to his campaign at the UK-based Grand Slam tournament.

Full fibre broadband has been extended to 21 new locations across the United Kingdom as part of a wider infrastructure upgrade, according to a report in The Independent. The expansion is part of a company's plan to connect up to five million additional homes and businesses by March of the following year. This development contributes to the UK government's broader 'Project Gigabit' and 'Levelling Up' initiatives, which aim to improve digital connectivity and reduce regional inequalities.

The number of people arriving in the UK via small boat crossings increased significantly during the first half of 2025, according to a report in the Financial Times. The data highlights a major challenge for the new Labour government, which campaigned on a pledge to 'stop the boats'. This rise in irregular migration occurs as the government inherits policies from the previous Conservative administration and navigates ongoing difficulties in cooperation with French authorities to prevent the crossings.

Male drivers in the United Kingdom are being quoted significantly more for car insurance than their female counterparts, with differences amounting to hundreds of pounds, according to a report in the Daily Mail. The findings, from an investigation by consumer group Which?, reveal a persistent price disparity despite laws that make it illegal for insurance providers to use gender as a factor in setting premiums. The report highlights how titles such as 'Mr', 'Mrs', 'Miss', and 'Ms' may be influencing quotes, raising questions about whether insurers are adhering to anti-discrimination legislation.

An employment tribunal has awarded £5,000 to Santiago Cubillo, a former worker at the Tartan Weaving Mill in Edinburgh, in a constructive dismissal case, according to a report in the Daily Mail. The case arose after Cubillo was accused of being sexist for allegedly refusing to give swords to female customers for souvenir photographs. Following the accusation, Cubillo resigned, and the tribunal's decision indicates his resignation was legally considered a constructive dismissal, where an employee is forced to leave due to an employer's actions.

Douglas Flint, the outgoing chair of UK fund manager Aberdeen Group, has said that some pension funds and institutional investors made a "huge mistake" and created potential legal risks by exaggerating their role in environmental, social, and governance (ESG) issues, according to a report in The Guardian. Flint stated that "ridiculously extravagant claims" were made by some companies, driven by a mindset that their job was "not really about investing money: we’re just jolly good people and we’re saving the world." He added that some asset managers may have put themselves at legal risk by overstating their ESG role.

Russia is using artificial intelligence in a disinformation campaign targeting the United Kingdom, sparking warnings of a new digital 'arms race', according to a report in the Daily Mail. Researchers at the Royal United Services Institute (RUSI) claim that this new technology is 'already in use' and is actively 'blurring the lines' between fact and fiction. The warning highlights the strategic use of AI by state actors to create and disseminate sophisticated false information.

Experts are warning users in the UK about data privacy risks associated with period tracker apps, according to a report in the Daily Mail. The warning follows a study by the University of Cambridge's Minderoo Centre, which has raised concerns about how these applications collect, use, and potentially share sensitive personal health data. The issue highlights potential enforcement challenges within the UK's existing data protection framework, including the UK GDPR and the Data Protection Act 2018, prompting calls for greater transparency from app developers and increased caution from users.

A UK-based veterinarian, known as Ben the Vet, has issued a public warning regarding a viral trend on the social media platform TikTok, according to a report in the Daily Mail. The vet has stated that the trend is extremely dangerous for dogs and could potentially be fatal. The warning aims to raise awareness among pet owners about the risks associated with following online trends without understanding the potential harm to their animals.

US women's national team manager Emma Hayes has said she would "never say never" to the possibility of one day managing the England national team, according to a report in The Guardian. The former Chelsea manager noted that the cultural approach and infrastructure for women's football are more ingrained in the US due to a longer history of providing opportunities for female players. Hayes also mentioned that her professional focus remains entirely on her current role with the USA team, even in a hypothetical future match against England.

The UK's Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has issued an alert recalling one specific batch of a prescription drug over concerns of a potential cancer risk, according to a report in the Daily Mail. The action by the medicines watchdog is a precautionary measure affecting a medication reportedly taken by tens of thousands of people in the country. The recall is specifically targeted at the single identified batch of tablets and not the entire supply of the drug.

Parents of disabled children are taking legal action following the conviction of Daniel Clarke for the abuse of six boys, BBC says in a report. Clarke is currently in prison for these crimes, but police have indicated that the scope of his abuse may be far wider, suspecting that dozens more children could have been targeted. The lawsuit aims to hold institutions accountable for alleged safeguarding failures.

A man was seriously injured during a living history demonstration at Bodiam Castle in East Sussex on Sunday, the Daily Mail said in a report. The performer was taking part in a mock battle when a sword was accidentally plunged into his face. The incident occurred just before 3 p.m. at the National Trust property.

Good Morning Britain presenter Ranvir Singh shared her personal experience of being a victim of drink spiking, stating the incident left her unable to hear or walk and with no memory of getting home, the Daily Mail said in a report. Singh opened up about the event on Tuesday's episode of the ITV show during a discussion with hosts Susanna Reid and Ed Balls and another spiking victim, Rachel Oven.

A woman has been charged with the murder of her partner, Igors Gavrilovs, in Newry, Northern Ireland, BBC says in a report. The charge follows an incident on Saturday in the city centre where Gavrilovs sustained a serious injury and subsequently died. The Police Service of Northern Ireland confirmed the charge.

A 19-year-old British woman from Billingham has been refused bail during a pre-trial hearing in Tbilisi, Georgia, where she faces drug trafficking charges, according to a report in BBC. During the hearing, the teenager alleged that she had been tortured. The court's decision means she will remain in custody pending her trial.

A 33-year-old British citizen and former serviceman, Ben Burgess, has been killed while fighting as a volunteer in Ukraine, the Daily Mail said in a report. Burgess, from Portsmouth, had joined the fighting following Russia's full-scale invasion in 2022 and was reportedly serving as a drone pilot. A funeral for him was held in Kyiv.

Two teenagers, aged 16 and 17, have been arrested on suspicion of murder in the United Kingdom following the death of a 38-year-old man, according to a report in BBC. The arrests were made after the man died from injuries sustained in a stabbing incident, which has now led to a murder investigation.

A landlord in London has prompted significant online criticism after an advertisement for a rental room went viral, as per a report in the Daily Mail. The listing offered a room containing a single bed for a monthly rent of £1,175. The high price for the accommodation sparked a widespread negative reaction on social media, with the incident highlighting ongoing public concerns about the city's high cost of living and the state of the private rental market.

The UK's Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has received more than 560 reports of acute pancreatitis in patients taking GLP-1 injections, such as Ozempic and Mounjaro, since the drugs were first approved in the country, the Daily Mail says in a report. These weight-loss drugs have also reportedly been linked to ten deaths, prompting warnings from doctors about the potential for severe side effects.

UK health officials have issued a warning about dangerously low stock levels of a vital vaccine, according to a report in the Daily Mail. The shortage reportedly puts holidaymakers at risk of contracting a serious infection, as vaccine supplies are described as being 'out of stock' in the country.

A major UK high street brand has announced it is cutting more than 1,200 jobs after its sales dropped by nearly £100 million, according to a report in the Daily Mail. The company has cited "challenging market conditions" as the primary reason for the significant job losses and the sharp decline in revenue.

Bilikesu Olagunju was employed in a nursing role at Homerton Hospital in the UK on a stroke ward just months after she had abused a dementia-stricken pensioner. The hospital trust acknowledged it was "unaware" of the ongoing criminal investigation against her at the time of her hiring. The abuse for which she was later convicted occurred just days before the 88-year-old patient died, raising concerns about the effectiveness of vetting and safeguarding procedures for staff working with vulnerable patients.

A couple, Biborka and Charles Bellhouse, are suing their insurers for £1 million after a claim for a fire that destroyed their £2 million home and a £300,000 watch collection was denied, the Daily Mail said in a report. The fire occurred on December 29, 2022, requiring 60 firefighters to bring it under control. The insurance company reportedly refused to pay out on the grounds that the couple had failed to declare building work that was being undertaken at the property, which is a common requirement in insurance contracts.

Heathrow Airport has begun the search for a new chairman to replace the long-serving Lord Deighton, according to a report in Sky News. The airport is reportedly sounding out potential candidates for the position, marking the start of a significant leadership transition for the major UK travel hub.

Wildfires in Scotland have continued for a third day, prompting a 'danger to life' warning from authorities, The Independent says in a report. Firefighting crews remain on the scene battling the blazes. The warning has been issued because the strain on resources is reportedly hampering the ability of emergency services to attend to other incidents, creating a broader risk to public safety.

A new campaign has been launched in England to combat dangerous tailgating, which is responsible for over 140 deaths and serious injuries each year, according to a report in Sky News. The initiative by the Department for Transport aims to raise awareness of the practice, described as "irritating, intimidating and dangerous," in response to research highlighting the significant number of casualties. While tailgating is not a specific standalone offence in the UK, it can be prosecuted under existing laws for 'driving without due care and attention' or 'dangerous driving'.

Heatwave warnings have been extended across much of England as temperatures are forecast to reach up to 34C, according to a report in The Independent. The alert has been amplified following an incident where a French Bulldog died after being left in a car, prompting renewed calls for pet owners to take extreme precautions. Authorities are advising the public on the severe dangers of leaving animals in vehicles during the hot weather, even for short periods, as parts of the country prepare for the significant temperature rise.

Police Scotland has launched an investigation after a human leg, reportedly still inside a sock and shoe, washed up on Prestwick Beach, according to a report in the Daily Mail. A witness discovered the remains partially buried under seaweed. Authorities have now linked the discovery to a body that was found 70 miles from the location on the beach.

UK house prices have experienced their largest monthly decline in more than two years, according to a report in BBC. The Nationwide Building Society, which published the data, suggests the drop may be a reflection of weaker demand from buyers following changes to the stamp duty tax in April.

UK utility Southern Water has secured an investment package worth up to £1.2bn to prevent a breach of its regulatory licence, as per a report in The Guardian. A consortium headed by its majority owner, Macquarie Group, has committed an initial £655m. An additional £245m is promised from current shareholders and new investors by the end of the year, with a further £300m contingent on the outcome of a legal appeal to increase customer charges.

Reports of animal cruelty in the United Kingdom have increased by one-third over the past year, with incidents typically peaking during the summer months, according to a report in BBC. The data comes from the RSPCA, a charity that investigates animal welfare issues. It is noted that the rise in reports does not necessarily equate to an identical rise in actual cruelty, as it could also reflect greater public awareness and an increased willingness to report suspected abuse, potentially influenced by recent legislation that stiffened penalties for such offenses.

The United Kingdom is facing a potential constitutional conflict with some of its overseas territories after five of them, including the British Virgin Islands and Bermuda, missed a final June deadline to implement corporate transparency measures, according to a report in The Guardian. The territories were required to introduce registers of company ownership, accessible to those with a "legitimate interest," as part of a UK-led effort to combat illicit financial flows under the Sanctions and Anti-Money Laundering Act 2018. The failure to comply with the long-delayed transparency rules has been described as a defiance of the UK parliament, raising the possibility of direct intervention from London.

Great Britain's energy regulator, Ofgem, has issued a draft approval for energy companies to invest nearly £24bn in the nation's electricity and gas grids, a decision that will lead to higher household bills, The Guardian says in a report. The investment, part of a push to expand the UK's renewable energy sector, includes over £15bn for gas transmission and distribution networks over the five-year period ending in 2031. This green light comes as part of Ofgem's draft verdict on price controls for energy network companies.

UK retail group Sainsbury’s reported its strongest growth since last summer, with comparable group sales, excluding fuel, increasing by 4.7% year-on-year for the three months ending June 21, according to a report in The Guardian. The growth was significantly boosted by its Argos chain, which saw sales grow by 4.4%, an increase from 1.9% in the previous quarter, as shoppers purchased seasonal items like paddling pools and fans during recent hot weather.

The NHS has repeatedly failed in its diagnosis and care of stroke patients, England’s health ombudsman has concluded, according to a report in The Guardian. The watchdog noted that the number of last-resort investigations into stroke care in England has increased by two-thirds over the last four years. Strokes are a significant health issue in the UK, causing approximately 34,000 deaths annually and representing the leading cause of severe disability.

New strike dates announced for the Glasgow subway are set to cause significant disruption as they coincide with the three-day TRNSMT music festival, according to a report in BBC. The industrial action will impact travel for the approximately 50,000 fans expected to attend the event at Glasgow Green on each of the strike days.

Mikhail Vlasov, a Russian-British dual national, appeared in a London court on Tuesday facing eight charges of breaching UK sanctions, according to a report in Reuters. Prosecutors allege that Vlasov sent cryptocurrency to separatist militias in the so-called Donetsk and Luhansk People's Republics. The funds were allegedly intended for the purchase of weapons and military equipment for these groups, which are fighting alongside the Russian army in eastern Ukraine.

The Wimbledon tennis tournament has replaced human line judges with a fully electronic line-calling system for all matches, AP says in a report. This change, which took effect with the start of the tournament on Monday, aligns the All England Club with most other major tennis events that have already adopted similar technology. The move is aimed at removing doubt and potential for human error in judging whether a ball is in or out, with the article noting that players can no longer argue with a machine's decision.

British police arrested three members of the senior leadership team from the hospital where convicted killer nurse Lucy Letby worked, Reuters said in a report. The arrests on Tuesday were made on suspicion of gross negligence manslaughter. The investigation follows Letby's conviction for murdering seven newborns and attempting to murder eight more while she was a working nurse at the hospital between June 2015 and June 2016.

A private island located in Scotland that features a ruined castle has been listed for sale with an asking price of $7.5 million, CNN says in a report. The sale encompasses the entire island property.

Some players on the England women's national soccer team have decided to stay off social media platforms during major tournaments due to the 'damaging' nature of online abuse they receive, according to a report in CNN. The move is a protective measure intended to safeguard their mental well-being and maintain focus on performance. This decision highlights the ongoing debate in the United Kingdom surrounding online safety and the challenges of protecting public figures from targeted harassment, an issue the country's Online Safety Act aims to address.

A remote Scottish lodge that was historically used to house foreign secret agents during World War II is now on the market, CNN says in a report. The property's significant past includes serving as a crucial safe house and training location for operatives involved in the United Kingdom's covert wartime intelligence operations. The sale of the lodge brings its unique history back into public focus.

A British woman has been arrested for an alleged jewelry theft after she posted vacation photos of herself on social media, CNN said in a report. According to Humberside Police, the selfies showed the woman wearing the stolen items. The online posts served as key evidence that led to her arrest, highlighting the use of digital footprints by UK law enforcement in criminal investigations.

British wingsuit champion Liam Byrne has died after a base jumping accident in the Swiss Alps, according to a report in CNN. The incident involved the prominent UK athlete participating in the extreme sport. In line with standard procedure for the death of a citizen abroad, the UK's Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office is expected to offer consular assistance to the family.

A Chinese student has been sentenced to life in prison by a UK court after being convicted of drugging and raping 10 women, according to a report in CNN. The crimes were committed against victims in both the United Kingdom and China. The sentence concludes a significant criminal case involving offenses that spanned across international borders.

An annual report on royal finances has disclosed that the UK monarchy will receive around $118 million in funding for its official duties, CNN says in a report. This payment, known as the Sovereign Grant, is designated for covering expenses related to official engagements, staff salaries, and the maintenance of occupied royal palaces like Buckingham Palace. The grant is not funded by direct taxation but is calculated as a percentage (currently 25%) of the profits from the Crown Estate, a vast property portfolio whose revenue is otherwise surrendered to the UK Treasury.

A transgender charity in the United Kingdom has lodged a formal complaint against the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC), calling for an investigation into its conduct regarding trans rights, as per a report in The Independent. The complaint was reportedly filed with the Global Alliance of National Human Rights Institutions (GANHRI), an international body that accredits national human rights watchdogs. This action follows contentious guidance issued by the EHRC on the Gender Recognition Act and the definition of single-sex spaces, which the charity and other advocates argue has failed to protect the rights of transgender people. The complaint could jeopardize the EHRC's 'A status' accreditation, potentially impacting its international credibility and influence.

England forward Beth Mead has stated that she and her partner, Netherlands striker Vivianne Miedema, do not discuss football as their national teams prepare to compete against each other in a Group D match at Euro 2025 on July 9, Reuters said in a report. Mead, who began her relationship with Miedema when they were teammates at Arsenal, expressed that while she wants her partner to perform well in the tournament, she hopes it will not be during their head-to-head game. Miedema is the all-time leading scorer in the Women's Super League.

Technology companies have proposed measures such as inserting tracking devices under offenders' skin, using robots to contain prisoners, and deploying driverless transport vehicles in a meeting with UK Shadow Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood, according to a report in The Guardian. The meeting, held in London in June 2025, was convened to explore technological solutions for the UK's justice system crisis, which is marked by a severe shortage of prison places and strained probation services. Mahmood reportedly told the companies she was seeking ideas for creating a "prison outside of prison" through wearable technologies, behaviour monitoring, and geolocation to manage offenders in the community.

A survey by the British Council has revealed a significant disparity in foreign language education across England, with pupils from more deprived areas being less likely to study a language, according to a report in The Guardian. The 'Language Trends' report, which surveyed 1,000 schools, found that only 38% of pupils in less affluent state schools take a modern language GCSE. This figure contrasts sharply with the 69% of pupils who do so in the most affluent state schools and is 12% lower than the national average. Following the report's release, education experts have called on ministers to make access to language learning a national priority.

A new poll has found that fewer than half of young men in the United Kingdom believe that abortion should be legal, according to a report in The Independent. The finding highlights a notable perspective on reproductive rights within this demographic. This result comes amid ongoing political discussions in the UK regarding the potential decriminalisation of abortion, which is currently legal under the conditions set by the Abortion Act of 1967.

A UK jury has acquitted Paul Lewis of plotting to hire a hitman to murder his estranged wife, Joanne Atkinson-Lewis, according to a report in Daily Mail. The court heard that Lewis allegedly gave £1,500 to his neighbour, Dominique Saunders, to arrange the killing after the couple had separated. However, it was revealed during the trial that Saunders allegedly scammed Lewis, taking the money and using it for a holiday in Benidorm, Spain, which resulted in Lewis's acquittal on the charge.

A 43-year-old British woman has been killed in a jet ski accident in Spain's Costa del Sol, according to a report in Daily Mail. The incident occurred when a speedboat, reportedly driven by a friend of the victim, collided with her jet ski. Spanish authorities are investigating, and the driver of the speedboat allegedly failed a breath test. The UK's Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office will provide consular assistance to the victim's family.

Prince William visited the England women's national football team, the Lionesses, at St George's Park, the national football centre, according to a report in the Daily Mail. In his capacity as President of the Football Association, he met with the 23-player squad and manager Sarina Wiegman to wish them success ahead of their trip to Switzerland for activities related to the UEFA Women's Euro 2025 qualifying campaign.

Newcastle United is set to sign Burnley goalkeeper James Trafford after experiencing setbacks in the summer transfer window, according to a report in Mirror. The club's move for Trafford comes after reportedly missing out on four other transfer targets to Premier League rivals Manchester United and Chelsea.

Shaun Wallace, known to viewers of the UK quiz show 'The Chase' as The Dark Destroyer, is set to appear in a new ITV series titled 'The Great Escapers', the Mirror says in a report. The new show will feature various celebrities competing against each other to plan the most enjoyable day out.

The receipt, which showed high prices for alcoholic drinks like beer and Pimm's at the Wimbledon tennis tournament, has generated public discussion and criticism. This reaction is occurring amid the UK's broader cost of living crisis, which has heightened public sensitivity to high consumer costs at major events.

Physician associates (PAs) in the United Kingdom are set to be renamed following significant pressure from medical bodies and patient safety advocates, The Telegraph says in a report. The change addresses long-standing concerns that the term 'physician' in the title is confusing for patients, potentially misleading them about the professional's qualifications and scope of practice compared to a medically qualified doctor. This decision comes amid broader issues within the NHS, including workforce shortages and the recent move for the General Medical Council (GMC) to begin formally regulating the PA role.