2026-04-19 Edition

In Water Orton, Warwickshire, residents say years of HS2 construction have brought cracking, noise and uncertainty that is now blighting house sales. The row puts a fresh spotlight on the real cost of the project for communities living closest to the works.

In Foleshill, Coventry, thousands are expected for the Vaisakhi Nagar Kirtan next Sunday, with multiple road closures planned along the route. Anyone travelling into or across the city will want to check the list early to avoid delays and diversions.

In Ryton-on-Dunsmore, Warwickshire, former Peugeot workers have been reflecting on the factory closure two decades on. Their accounts underline how a single industrial loss can reshape jobs, families and confidence across a whole area for years.

In Staffordshire, around 400 people joined a protest walk against proposals for 1,500 homes. The turnout shows how fiercely large housing schemes can divide communities worried about traffic, infrastructure and the loss of local character.

Across the West Midlands, complaints are growing that Lime hire bikes are being left obstructing streets soon after the scheme began. The backlash raises questions over how well the rollout is being managed and whether tighter parking controls are coming.

In Westminster, Sir Keir Starmer is set to face MPs on Monday over the handling of Peter Mandelson's appointment to Washington. The dispute is becoming a broader test of what ministers knew, when they knew it and whether Downing Street can contain the fallout.

In London, ministers will host a summit on Monday focused on keeping children safe online in the age of artificial intelligence. The meeting signals that regulation, schools and tech platforms are all likely to face tougher questions about how children are protected.

In London, historian Anna Keay has been named as the official biographer of Queen Elizabeth II. The appointment matters because the book is expected to draw on access to royal family members and become a defining account of the late Queen's life and legacy.

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer is facing calls to resign over the scandal and will address MPs on Monday.

US preparing to seize Iranian-linked ships

In Beijing, more than 100 humanoid robots took part in a half-marathon in a striking showcase of how fast the technology is advancing. The event is part spectacle, part warning shot about how quickly robotics is moving from novelty towards real-world capability.

In Rome, Pope Leo has said comments interpreted as a swipe at Donald Trump were not directed at the US president. The clarification follows a growing spat that has mixed religion, diplomacy and the politics of the Iran conflict.

In Mexico City, President Claudia Sheinbaum has denied there is any diplomatic crisis with Spain after renewed arguments over the legacy of conquest. The exchange shows how historical disputes can still shape modern foreign relations.

In Washington DC, an appeals court has allowed construction of Donald Trump's planned White House ballroom to continue until the next hearing. The decision keeps alive a project that has stirred legal and political arguments over presidential power and use of the site.

In Madrid, Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado is preparing a rally to revive pressure for political change back home. The move comes as the opposition remains squeezed and the transition many had hoped for appears to be slipping further away.

In a lovely boost for village life, a couple are breathing new life into the White Hart in Newbold by refurbishing the pub at a time when many country locals are sadly shutting their doors. It’s a heartening show of faith in the community — and a reminder that places which bring people together can still have a bright future.

In Westminster, Sir Keir Starmer is due to face MPs on Monday over the growing row around Peter Mandelson’s appointment to Washington. The latest reporting suggests the Prime Minister may only have learned days ago that Mandelson was approved despite adverse security advice, keeping the pressure firmly on Downing Street.

In London, the government is hosting its Childhood in the Age of AI summit on Monday as concerns grow about how children use fast-changing digital tools. The event is expected to focus on online harms, safeguards and what ministers and tech firms should do next.

In Kensington Gardens, police closed off part of the area after suspicious items were found near the Israeli embassy. Officers have since said the materials were not hazardous, but the incident prompted a major response in central London.

In north London, Tottenham were beaten by Brighton in a result that leaves supporters frustrated and adds to the pressure around the club. For Spurs fans across London, it is the sort of setback likely to dominate chats well into the week.

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer is facing calls to resign over the scandal and will address MPs on Monday.

A rogue otter brought a bit of unexpected chaos to a garden centre in south Scotland, after slipping inside and causing a stir among staff and shoppers. Happily, the adventurous visitor was safely caught with a fishing net, turning the whole escapade into one of those wonderfully daft wildlife moments that leaves everyone smiling.

In Fort Greene, the rear of a three-story building on Myrtle Avenue near Adelphi Street and Carlton Avenue collapsed, leaving one apartment exposed. Neighboring buildings were evacuated as crews assessed the damage and checked for additional structural risks.

In Greenpoint, this weekly roundup tracks several neighborhood developments, including new lower-cost dining options and an ongoing court case tied to abused local dogs. It offers a quick snapshot of the issues and openings residents may be talking about right now.

In New York City, federal investigators are asking potential victims to come forward in the alleged SantaCon-related scam case. The appeal suggests the fallout may be wider than first understood and could affect people who thought their losses were isolated.

Across New York City, building workers and property owners reached a tentative labor agreement that appears to head off a strike. The contract includes hourly raises that would lift a typical porter’s pay significantly by the end of the deal.

In Brooklyn, a new report examines how current law treats your face as an image that others may be able to use, including for AI training. The piece digs into growing questions around identity, ownership, and consent as facial data becomes more valuable.

A United flight bound for LaGuardia Airport from Chicago was diverted to Pittsburgh after what the airline described as a potential security concern. Passengers were evacuated using emergency slides, turning a routine trip into a major travel disruption.

In the Bronx, former President Barack Obama appeared with Mayor Zohran Mamdani for a reading event at a pre-K center. The visit put a national political figure alongside the city’s mayor at a neighborhood school event focused on young children.

In New York City, a proposal from Gov. Kathy Hochul to tax high-value pied-à-terres is drawing pushback from the real estate industry. The plan targets second homes worth $5 million or more, raising fresh questions about who should shoulder more of the city’s tax burden.

It’s our job at the MTA to figure out how to fast-track accessibility projects so that more people can take advantage of our amazing subway system. Public-private partnerships (P3s) are quickly becoming one of our best tools.   The latest example is our new public-private partnership with Columbia U

No. 4 Seton Hall Prep wins it on a walkoff.

A welcome bit of good news for Brooklyn seniors: an affordable housing lottery has opened in Brownsville for a new building with 142 apartments dedicated to older adults. With 47 of the units priced to be truly affordable, it’s a hopeful step toward giving more neighbors a safe, modern place to call home.

On Myrtle Avenue near Adelphi Street and Carlton Avenue in Fort Greene, the rear of a three-story building gave way and left one apartment exposed. Neighboring buildings were evacuated as crews responded and assessed the damage.

In Brooklyn, crossword champion Paolo Pasco says the puzzle boom is being fueled by a new generation of solvers and a wider cultural reach. The story looks at why competitive crosswords and daily puzzles are drawing bigger audiences than they used to.

At Eliot Avenue and 69th Street in Middle Village, Queens, residents say late-night street takeovers left skid marks, damage, and a growing sense that the area is unsafe after dark. The incident is adding pressure on officials to crack down on illegal car meetups.

A United flight bound for LaGuardia Airport from Chicago was diverted to Pittsburgh after what the airline called a potential security concern. Passengers left the plane using emergency slides, adding a jolt to weekend travel into New York City.

In the Bronx, a former NYPD sergeant convicted in the death of a man will be released while he appeals the case. A judge set $300,000 bail and ordered him to surrender his passport as the legal fight continues.

It’s not too late to get your fix of The Real Deal’s Top 100 in New York. The cast of characters who make up the Big Apple’s real estate industry is vast and eclectic. Players can ply their trade anywhere in the country they want, but only the strongest survive in New York. The TRD editorial team in

Five Brooklyn restaurants just earned a spot in the Michelin Guide, a proud moment for the borough’s food scene and the people behind it. It’s a delicious reminder that some of New York’s most exciting meals are being made right here in Brooklyn — and that local chefs and neighborhoods are continuing to shine on a world-class stage.

Across Derbyshire, a fresh round-up shows where petrol and diesel are currently cheapest as prices stay elevated. For drivers in Belper, Ripley and the wider Amber Valley, it offers a quick way to compare nearby forecourts before filling up.

In Derby, three XL bully dogs have been put down by police after an attack that killed a man's pet. The owner says he is still haunted by what happened, and the case is likely to reignite concern about dangerous dogs and public safety.

In Castle Donington, four sets of sisters running independent businesses say the high street needs more local support. Their plea highlights the pressure on small shops and the challenge of keeping footfall up in a town many Derbyshire readers will know well.

In the East Midlands, firefighters were called out after a duckling became trapped in a drain while trying to cross a busy road. The rescue has prompted calls for duck-crossing signs, turning a small incident into a wider road-safety talking point.

It has been closed for months

The Grade I-listed site holds immense historic and architectural value

A Derby school has received a glowing report, with inspectors praising the kind, supportive atmosphere created by staff and the positive behaviour shown by pupils. It’s a lovely sign of a school community where young people are clearly being helped to flourish and ‘live life in all its fullness’.

On Myrtle Avenue near Adelphi Street and Carlton Avenue in Fort Greene, the back of a three-story building gave way, exposing an apartment and prompting evacuations of neighboring buildings. The collapse raises fresh safety questions for residents and businesses along a busy stretch near Downtown Brooklyn.

On Smith Street near the Cobble Hill-Carroll Gardens border, Prince Street Pizza is set to open its new Brooklyn outpost on April 23. The shop marks the brand’s first expansion within New York City since its original debut, adding a high-profile new tenant to one of the neighborhood’s busiest retail corridors.

In Greenpoint, this week’s neighborhood roundup tracks new lower-cost dining options alongside an ongoing court case involving abused local dogs. The mix offers a snapshot of the kinds of small but immediate developments shaping daily life in North Brooklyn.

In Brooklyn, a new look at facial likeness rights asks who controls your image once it’s online or used to train artificial intelligence. The story digs into how current law treats faces more like usable data than personal property, with big implications for privacy, copyright, and tech.

Across New York City, unionized building workers and property owners reached a tentative contract deal that sidesteps a possible strike. The agreement includes a $4.50 hourly raise, pushing a typical porter’s annual pay from about $62,000 to $71,000 by the end of the contract.

At a child care center in the Bronx, former President Barack Obama made his first joint appearance with Mayor Zohran Mamdani. The visit put early childhood education and affordability at the center of a closely watched political alliance in New York City.

In New York City, Gov. Kathy Hochul’s proposed pied-à-terre tax would target second homes valued at $5 million or more. The idea has quickly stirred backlash in the real estate industry, reopening a long-running fight over how much of the city’s tax burden should fall on wealthy part-time owners.

At a Queens intersection, officials are pushing for tougher enforcement after videos showed drivers doing dangerous fiery doughnuts in the street. The incident has added urgency to complaints about late-night car meetups that residents say are turning neighborhood roads into unsafe stunt zones.

A United flight traveling from Chicago to LaGuardia Airport was diverted to Pittsburgh over what the airline called a potential security concern. Passengers were forced to evacuate using emergency slides, disrupting travel plans for people bound for New York City.

In the Strait of Hormuz, Iran says it has reimposed a full closure and opened fire on ships trying to pass after escalating tensions with the United States. The move threatens one of the world’s most important energy corridors and could quickly ripple into fuel prices and global trade.

In Kyiv, a gunman opened fire and took hostages inside a supermarket before being killed in a shootout with police. Officials say at least six people were killed, making it one of the deadliest sudden attacks in the Ukrainian capital in recent weeks.

At the Vatican, Pope Francis said remarks widely interpreted as a jab at Donald Trump were misunderstood. The clarification comes after a political and media flare-up over whether the pontiff was directly weighing in on American politics.

Five Brooklyn restaurants just earned a spot in the Michelin Guide, a delicious nod to the borough’s creativity and talent in the kitchen. It’s a feel-good win for local chefs, restaurant teams, and diners alike — and a nice reminder that Brooklyn’s food scene keeps shining on one of the world’s biggest stages.

Bulwell town centre is at the centre of a police appeal after a 14-year-old was reportedly robbed at knifepoint in an alleyway. Detectives have released an image of a youth they want to trace as inquiries continue into the attack.

Clifton saw roads and access disrupted after police were called to a suspicious package and a bomb disposal unit was sent in. Nottinghamshire Police later said the item had been made safe and the cordon was lifted.

Nottinghamshire is set for a mainly dry Sunday with early sunshine, some cloud later on and a settled end to the day. Conditions look fairly bright overall, but temperatures will dip as the evening draws in.

Clifton was briefly sealed off after reports of a suspicious package prompted a bomb disposal response. Police later lifted the cordon after the item was assessed and made safe.

Derbyshire Police are appealing for witnesses after an 11-year-old boy died following a collision on Nottingham Road in Derby. The crash involved a bus, a car and the boy’s bicycle, and no arrests have been made.

Lincolnshire planners have allowed more homes to be built near a well-known A1 collision hotspot before promised road works are complete. The decision means up to 300 properties can go ahead while concerns over traffic safety remain.

Derby is seeing fresh pressure over the city council’s proposed £60m Assembly Rooms spending plan. A new petition is urging councillors to rethink the scheme before more public money is committed.

The sisters run a variety of independent businesses but they've issued a plea to customers in a bid to boost footfall

Westminster is braced for another difficult week for Sir Keir Starmer as questions grow over when ministers knew about concerns linked to Peter Mandelson’s vetting. The foreign secretary has said it is troubling that the issue may not have been raised sooner, with the prime minister due to face MPs on Monday.

Across the UK, disabled drivers and passengers are raising alarm over possible changes to Motability support. Campaigners say tighter rules or cuts could make everyday travel harder and leave some people cut off from work, shopping and appointments.

London will host a government summit on Monday focused on keeping children safe online as artificial intelligence becomes more widespread. Ministers are expected to look at how new technology is reshaping risks around content, grooming and digital safety.

The UK’s royal and cultural world has a major new appointment after historian Anna Keay was named as Queen Elizabeth II’s official biographer. The book is expected to draw on access to members of the Royal Family and add a fresh account of the late monarch’s life and legacy.

London and Manchester are again at the centre of the Premier League conversation after Manchester United beat Chelsea to boost their Champions League hopes. The result piles more pressure on Chelsea and reshapes the race for European places.

The Strait of Hormuz has reportedly been closed again, with Iran blaming a US blockade and saying the move breaches a ceasefire. The flashpoint is one of the world’s most important shipping routes, so any disruption could quickly affect global energy prices and trade.

Kyiv police shot dead a gunman after a hostage siege at a supermarket left at least six people dead. Officials said the standoff followed a shooting attack and ended after failed negotiations and an armed response.

Beijing staged an extraordinary half-marathon featuring more than 100 humanoid robots running alongside human competitors on separate tracks. The event was designed to showcase rapid advances in Chinese robotics, with organisers highlighting just how quickly the machines are improving.

Wellington is starting to clear the worst-hit areas after flash floods caused serious disruption across New Zealand’s capital. Forecasters have warned more heavy rain and thunderstorms could still hit parts of the North Island.

Vatican City is trying to cool tensions after the Pope said a recent reference to ‘tyrants’ was not directed at Donald Trump. The clarification follows a row that had fuelled speculation about a worsening clash between the pontiff and the US president.

A lovely slice of local history is coming back to life as Nottingham’s restored medieval steps prepare for their official opening. Once neglected and overgrown, they’ve been beautifully repaired by volunteers and are set to become a welcoming social space once again — a brilliant example of community effort giving an old landmark a bright new future.

Queen’s Park is the focus of this look at the neighbourhood’s better-known landmarks, including its award-winning farmers market and bakery. It also traces how the area gave its name to Queens Park Rangers, adding a useful refresher on one of the patch’s most recognisable local links.

Soho’s Berwick Street is at the centre of this Record Store Day guide, which revisits the area’s long-standing reputation as London’s ‘Golden Mile of Vinyl’. It rounds up what to look out for in 2026 while tying the event back to one of the West End’s most distinctive music streets.

Rathbone Square in Fitzrovia could gain a new conference and events space under plans for One Rathbone Square. The proposal would bring a multi-purpose venue into a major office block, with potential knock-on effects for footfall, noise and how the square is used.

South Crescent, off Store Street in Fitzrovia, has been granted planning permission for a new AIDS memorial. The decision by Camden Council moves the long-running project into its next phase and marks a significant step for a prominent central London site.

Clerkenwell’s Postal Museum is launching a new walking tour through parts of central London linked to the capital’s postal history. The route promises a closer look at the people, streets and post boxes that helped shape everyday life across the city.

London politics is already turning to the 7 May local elections, with Sadiq Khan saying he would work constructively with any Green or Reform-controlled councils that emerge. The remarks hint at a more fragmented political map across the capital and what that could mean for City Hall after polling day.

The West End is at the centre of a row after Reform UK opened an investigation into alleged social media posts linked to candidate James Bembridge. The claims include remarks about hating the NHS and insulting nurses, injecting controversy into the local election campaign.

London Underground services face disruption next week after the RMT said strike action had become inevitable. The dispute centres on claims that TfL failed to honour previous commitments, raising the prospect of widespread travel problems for commuters across the capital.

Trafalgar Square hosted thousands of people for Vaisakhi celebrations celebrating Sikh heritage, culture and community. The central London event brought music, performances and community activity into one of the capital’s most recognisable public spaces.

An EastEnders villain will return to our screens soon after a two-year break.

A hopeful health breakthrough leads today’s feel-good pick: Simone Boothe from Catford says she is in remission for the first time thanks to a new cancer drug. After living with incurable blood cancer, she can now walk again — a wonderfully heartening reminder of the life-changing difference medical advances can make.

Yorkshire is set to host the full Aids memorial quilt in what organisers say is the first complete display outside London. The tribute brings a major national artwork to the region and is likely to draw visitors as well as reflection on lives lost to HIV and Aids.

South Yorkshire police have arrested a man after two separate dog attacks left a council worker and a police officer injured. Officers say both suffered bites to the arms and lower body, and dogs have now been seized while enquiries continue.

West Yorkshire is at the centre of this story after 21-year-old Ethan Jones was seriously injured in a quad bike crash in Rhodes. His case highlights the financial risks of travelling without insurance, with relatives now dealing with the fallout from a life-changing accident abroad.

Barnsley is under scrutiny after turnout in some parts of the 2024 local elections fell to just 17%. The report looks at why many residents feel voting changes little, as parties try to re-engage people ahead of the next contest.

South Yorkshire runner Laura Stenton-Slater is aiming to set a world record while running in wellington boots. The challenge is raising money for Unique, a charity supporting families affected by rare gene and chromosome disorders.

Westminster is braced for another difficult week for Sir Keir Starmer after fresh questions over when ministers learned of concerns about Peter Mandelson’s vetting. The row is set to return to Parliament on Monday, keeping the government on the defensive over who knew what and when.

London will host a government summit on Monday focused on keeping children safe online in the age of artificial intelligence. The meeting signals that ministers are looking at how fast-changing tech is affecting young people and whether stronger protections are needed.

England’s local election campaign has been hit by fresh controversy after two more Reform UK candidates were accused of sharing offensive material online. The dispute adds pressure on Nigel Farage’s party over vetting standards just as campaigning intensifies.

North Wales is the setting for a major restoration project as TV personalities Keith Brymer Jones and Marj Hogarth renovate a 163-year-old chapel. The build blends property, heritage and design, with the pair saying they plan to make the area their permanent home.

Places which bring communities together will receive support through a new charity launched to honour the memory of the much-missed Queen

The Strait of Hormuz has reportedly been closed again by Iran after attacks on ships, raising fresh fears over one of the world’s most important oil and gas routes. Any sustained disruption there could quickly feed into global energy prices and wider political tensions.

Beijing staged a half-marathon featuring more than 100 humanoid robots running on parallel tracks alongside humans. The event offered a striking snapshot of how quickly robotics is advancing, with the fastest machine posting a remarkably competitive time.

Wellington is starting to clean up after flash floods caused severe disruption across parts of New Zealand’s capital. Forecasters are warning that more thunderstorms and very heavy rain could yet hit the North Island, keeping pressure on emergency teams.

Vatican City is trying to cool a diplomatic row after the Pope said his comments about 'tyrants' were not aimed at Donald Trump. The clarification follows a public spat that had fuelled speculation about tensions between the pontiff and the US president.

Madrid is set to host a rally led by Venezuela’s exiled opposition figure María Corina Machado as the country’s political crisis deepens. The move comes with the opposition sidelined and the promised democratic transition appearing to have stalled.

Bramley Community Arts Festival has announced the dates for this year’s celebration, giving local people something cheerful to look forward to in May. With its springtime spirit and focus on creativity, it’s a lovely boost for the community and a reminder of how local arts can bring people together.

Across Nottinghamshire, Sunday is set to bring plenty of early sunshine, dry conditions and patchy cloud later on. It should stay settled into the evening, though temperatures are expected to feel cooler by the end of the day.

In Nottingham, a major firm with historic links to Boots is preparing to close a local site and cut about 150 jobs. The move is the latest blow to the city’s employment picture and will matter to workers and suppliers tied to the business.

In Nottinghamshire, a Japanese firm is considering a £60 million investment to build its new UK headquarters. Backers say the scheme could create more than 100 jobs and help drive regeneration in the area.

The road has been closed by police

The crash involved a bus, a car and the 11-year-old boy on his bicycle

Westminster is braced for another row over Peter Mandelson after the foreign secretary said ministers should have been told sooner about vetting concerns. Sir Keir Starmer is now under renewed pressure ahead of a statement to MPs on Monday, with opponents calling the affair a serious failure at the top of government.

London will host a government summit on Monday examining how children can be protected online as artificial intelligence becomes more widespread. The meeting is expected to focus on risks facing young people and could influence future policy for schools, parents and tech companies.

Kensington Gardens in London has reopened after police assessed suspicious items found close to the Israeli embassy and decided they were not hazardous. The incident prompted a significant security response on Saturday and will raise further questions about safety around high-profile sites in the capital.

London and Manchester were the backdrop to a result that could reshape the top end of the Premier League, with Manchester United beating Chelsea to strengthen their Champions League hopes. For Chelsea, the defeat adds to the pressure and leaves their season looking increasingly uncertain.

Palestinian Prisoners’ Day is marked every year on 17 April. It began in 1974, after the Palestinian National Council chose the date to honour the first Palestinian prisoner exchange, linked to Mahmoud Bakr Hijazi’s release in 1971. Hijazi was the first Palestinian to be captured by Israeli occupati

A much-delayed new library has finally opened in Sherwood, with parents describing it as “fantastic” and a real boost for local families. It’s a heartening addition for the area — a welcoming space for children to discover books, learn and bring the community together.

Margate's Winter Gardens may see restoration work begin this summer, reviving hopes for one of Kent's best-known entertainment venues. The building has hosted major acts over the decades, and any progress will be closely watched by the town's cultural and business communities.

London will face Underground strikes next week, with some Stagecoach bus routes also affected by separate industrial action. For Kent commuters travelling into the capital from places such as Tunbridge Wells, the knock-on effects could mean longer and more crowded journeys.

Tunbridge Wells' Spa Valley Railway has resumed full services after a bridge installation forced disruption to operations. The reopening is a timely boost for Easter visitors and for local businesses that benefit from heritage rail traffic.

Across the South East, including Kent, music fans queued for hours to snap up limited-edition vinyl for Record Store Day. The turnout underlines how strongly independent record shops are still pulling in crowds despite the shift to streaming.

Kent's coastal towns are being warned that traditional seaside arcades face mounting pressure from rising costs and changing visitor habits. The debate matters beyond nostalgia, because arcades remain part of the local economy and the character of resorts such as Margate and other parts of the county coast.

Westminster is braced for another difficult week for Sir Keir Starmer after fresh claims that ministers were not told sooner about concerns over Peter Mandelson's vetting. The row is now serious enough to trigger calls for resignation and is set to return to the Commons on Monday.

London will host a government summit on Monday focused on keeping children safe online in the age of artificial intelligence. The meeting signals that ministers are under pressure to move faster on how AI affects young people, social media and education.

The royal household has named historian Anna Keay as the official biographer of Queen Elizabeth II. The appointment is a significant cultural moment, with the book expected to draw on interviews with members of the Royal Family and shape how the late Queen's reign is remembered.

London saw Chelsea suffer another damaging setback as Manchester United strengthened their Champions League hopes. The result will sharpen scrutiny on Chelsea's direction and adds to the pressure in the final stretch of the season.

Palestinian Prisoners’ Day is marked every year on 17 April. It began in 1974, after the Palestinian National Council chose the date to honour the first Palestinian prisoner exchange, linked to Mahmoud Bakr Hijazi’s release in 1971. Hijazi was the first Palestinian to be captured by Israeli occupati

The Strait of Hormuz has been closed again, according to Iran, after ships were attacked in a major escalation in the Gulf. The waterway is crucial to global oil supplies, so any prolonged disruption could quickly feed through to energy markets and prices far beyond the region.

Kyiv was shaken by a deadly hostage incident in which at least six people were killed after a gunman opened fire inside a supermarket. Police stormed the building after failed negotiations, adding another layer of trauma to a city already living under wartime strain.

Australia is facing renewed questions over its climate strategy after analysis suggested emissions from coalmines are still rising. The issue goes to the heart of whether headline policy changes are delivering real cuts or simply shifting the numbers around.

Washington is facing fresh scrutiny after reports that Donald Trump believed appearing erratic and insulting online could pressure Iran into negotiations. The claim offers a striking glimpse into how high-stakes international messaging may have been used during a volatile crisis.

Vatican City is attempting to calm a diplomatic spat after Pope Francis said his comments about 'tyrants' were not directed at Donald Trump. The exchange highlights how quickly global political tensions can spill into symbolism and public interpretation.

A hidden gem café in Kent is serving up more than just good coffee and cake — every cuppa helps support a good cause. With its cosy atmosphere and community-minded spirit, it’s exactly the sort of place that makes you feel a little better about the world with every visit.

In Rutherglen, a three-bedroom home inside a historic townhouse linked to Cathkin House has been put up for sale. The property dates back to 1799 and stands out for its period setting, giving local buyers a rare look at a home with genuine architectural history.

In Glasgow, police are searching for Grant McKinnon after he was last seen in the Cardowan Road area. Officers have warned the public not to approach him and are asking anyone with information to get in touch urgently.

In Carntyne, Glasgow, detectives are investigating the suspicious death of a woman found injured on Cardowan Road at around 4am. Police have begun inquiries into the circumstances and are expected to appeal for witnesses and nearby information.

Across Scotland, the publication of Scottish Water sewage dump data has been pushed back until after the Holyrood election on 7 May. Critics have branded the delay a cover-up, raising fresh questions about transparency and river pollution before voters go to the polls.

In Edinburgh, former MP Joanna Cherry has announced she is leaving the SNP, saying she became ashamed to remain a member. The decision adds another public flashpoint for the party as Scotland heads into a key election period.

Police say a grey Ford Kuga was seen driving northbound on the southbound carriageway of the M90 at about 22:30 on Friday.

Barrhead Housing is marking a wonderful milestone this year, with its 40th anniversary set to be celebrated through a full programme of events and community get-togethers. It’s a lovely chance to look back on four decades of supporting local people while bringing residents together for a year of shared pride and celebration.

Bulwell town centre is at the centre of a police appeal after a 14-year-old was robbed at knifepoint in an alleyway. Detectives have issued an image of a youth they want to speak to as inquiries continue into the attack.

Clifton saw a police cordon and bomb disposal response after officers were called to a suspicious package. Nottinghamshire Police later said the item had been made safe and the cordon was lifted.

Nottingham city centre is preparing to unveil its new Rainbow Quarter, with organisers promising street parties and a high-profile launch. The charity behind the project says the new LGBTQ+ district will be formally revealed on a set date, with Sir Ian McKellen linked to the plans.

Nottingham saw a park closed for several hours on Saturday after reports of a suspicious package. Bomb disposal officers were deployed before the incident was brought to a safe conclusion.

Nottinghamshire is being considered for a new UK headquarters by a Japanese company planning to invest £60 million. The proposal is being pitched as a regeneration boost and could create more than 100 jobs in the area.

The East Midlands is due to receive almost £3 million to improve museums, libraries and arts venues across the region. Backers say the money should widen access to culture and help revive local institutions.

Nottinghamshire faces possible school disruption after teachers moved towards strike action over planned job cuts at an academy. Union members have described the reductions as catastrophic, while the trust says talks are under way to avoid walkouts.

Newark MP Robert Jenrick has entered the latest energy debate by backing more North Sea oil drilling. He says licences are ready to go, setting up another political clash over energy policy and climate priorities.

A lovely slice of Nottingham history is coming back to life, with the Long Stairs in the Lace Market set to officially reopen after 93 years. Even better, the restored medieval steps will become a welcoming community space for local bands, fundraising events and poetry nights — a wonderful new chapter for a much-loved old landmark.

St Ann’s saw part of St Bartholomews Road taped off after police responded to a reported serious assault. The closure blocked the lower section of the street on Friday evening as officers dealt with the incident and inquiries continued.

Nottingham is facing another jobs blow after a major Boots-linked business confirmed plans to close a local site. Around 150 roles are expected to go, with the move raising fresh questions about employment and business confidence in the city.

Nottingham saw a park shut for several hours on Saturday after a suspicious package prompted a bomb squad call-out. The incident caused confusion locally before the scene was made safe and restrictions were lifted.

Bulwell town centre is at the heart of a police appeal after a 14-year-old was reportedly robbed at knifepoint in an alleyway. Detectives have released an image of someone they want to speak to as they continue investigating the attack.

The road has been closed by police

The crash involved a bus, a car and the 11-year-old boy on his bicycle

A much-loved slice of Nottingham’s history is stepping back into life, with restored medieval steps set for an official opening after years of neglect. Even better, volunteers helped bring the space back to life, turning it into a lovely example of local people preserving the city’s heritage for everyone to enjoy.

In Kenninghall, the owner of the Marketplace Restaurant and Café says the business is looking beyond simply serving locals after completing its first year. The next phase is about turning the venue into more of a draw for visitors from across the wider Diss and South Norfolk area.

In Norwich, new production images have been released ahead of To Kill a Mockingbird heading to Norwich Theatre Royal. It gives theatre-goers an early sense of the staging before the West End adaptation reaches the city.

In rural Norfolk near Norwich, residents packed a public meeting to oppose plans for a large solar farm on farmland close to their homes. The turnout shows how strongly people feel about the potential impact on the landscape and their immediate area.

In Drayton, the tenants of The Old Mill Pub have spoken out after the building was badly damaged in what has been described as a firebomb attack. They say the setback is devastating but insist the pub will return.

On the A134 between Mundford and Thetford, a crash forced a closure with police and fire crews sent to the scene. Drivers heading across west and south Norfolk faced disruption while emergency services dealt with the incident.

In Garvestone, plans have been put forward for a replacement one-and-a-half storey scout building at a village campsite. The proposal would update facilities used by local scouting groups and outdoor activities.

In Yaxham, objections have been raised to proposals for extra lodges at a village holiday park. Critics say the expansion could damage the character and atmosphere of the site, setting up a planning dispute to watch.

In Reepham, organisers have confirmed the return of the town’s free classic car show in September 2026. The event is expected to bring around 100 vehicles back to the town, making it an early date for enthusiasts to note.

In Hillington, FFOLKESPA is being promoted as a new kind of wellness venue rather than a traditional spa. The site is aiming to stand out in Norfolk’s leisure market with a more distinctive, experience-led offer.

In Costessey, The Harte pub has reappeared on the market after previously being under offer. The building, noted for its wartime links, remains unsold, raising fresh questions over its future.

In Norfolk, a home-grown beauty brand says it is now selling one product every nine seconds worldwide. The figures underline how a business based in the county has built a remarkable global reach.

In Norfolk, textile artist Colin Millington is drawing attention for his small stitched scenes filled with ships, flags and maritime detail. His work offers a strikingly personal take on seafaring life and coastal memory.

In Norfolk, Ian Smith says a throwaway comment from his wife pushed him to prove he could build an audience on TikTok. He has now gone far beyond that target, turning a local story into an unexpected online hit.

In Suffolk, some travellers say conflict linked to Iran, rising costs and uncertainty are persuading them to stay closer to home. The shift gives a snapshot of how global events are starting to affect holiday decisions in East Anglia.

In Colchester, supporters have been weighing up what a possible John Terry takeover could mean for Colchester United. The mood is mixed, with excitement and curiosity tempered by clear concern about the club’s future direction.

Near Ipswich, writer-director Max Morgan says the Suffolk landscape played a central role in shaping his debut film Breakwater. The project puts a recognisable local setting at the heart of a new screen release.

In Essex, an old railway station site has been blighted by heavy fly-tipping, prompting concern over damage to the area. The council says it is still working on a response while trying to stop more waste being dumped.

In Westminster, the row over Peter Mandelson’s vetting has intensified after claims ministers were not informed quickly enough. The prime minister is now under renewed pressure ahead of a statement to MPs, with opponents openly calling for his position to be challenged.

In London, ministers are due to host a summit on how to protect children online as artificial intelligence becomes more embedded in daily life. The meeting is set to examine whether current safeguards are keeping pace with the technology young people are already using.

In London, Kensington Gardens has reopened after police investigated suspicious items found near the Israeli embassy and decided they were not hazardous. The temporary closure caused concern in a high-profile part of the capital before the all-clear was given.

In London, Chelsea were left with more questions after defeat to Manchester United handed their rivals a timely lift in the race for Europe. The result sharpens the pressure at both ends of the Premier League’s battle for places and stability.

Palestinian Prisoners’ Day is marked every year on 17 April. It began in 1974, after the Palestinian National Council chose the date to honour the first Palestinian prisoner exchange, linked to Mahmoud Bakr Hijazi’s release in 1971. Hijazi was the first Palestinian to be captured by Israeli occupati

There’s lovely news from Gressenhall, where Woodstock Care Home is celebrating after inspectors rated it "good" in every category. It’s a heartening boost for residents, families and staff alike, and a well-deserved nod to the care and commitment being shown every day.

At Boroughmuir, Edinburgh, Blaze’s youth basketball section has completed a rare clean sweep with all four teams winning their play-off finals. The result marks a first in the club’s history and puts a spotlight on one of the city’s strongest community sports programmes.

At Easter Road in Edinburgh, Hibernian have opened submissions for supporters who want to remember friends and relatives who have died. The tributes will be included ahead of the final home match against Motherwell on 16 May, continuing a tradition many fans hold close.

At the French Institute in Edinburgh, a contemporary Ukrainian art exhibition called Land will run on 9 and 10 May with free entry. Backed by the Festival of Europe (Scotland), it brings an international cultural event into the city with no ticket required.

In Edinburgh, a resident has described being alarmed by a disturbing incident caught on a doorbell camera. The footage appears to have prompted a quick reaction from the householder and raises fresh concerns about doorstep security.

In Edinburgh, Green candidate Lorna Slater has come under pressure from Labour during the 2026 Holyrood campaign over past comments on prisons and police. The clash adds fresh tension to a closely watched contest in the capital.

On the A701 between Edinburgh and the Borders, a 15-year-old boy has died following a crash involving two cars near Hearthstane. Four other people were taken to hospital as police investigate the circumstances.

In Edinburgh, engineer Fergal Mackie has been named in Forbes 30 Under 30 after developing a fully mechanical prosthetic hand through his company Metacarpal. His invention grew from a personal accident and is now gaining serious attention in medical technology.

A solo exhibition by artist Eleanor Carlingford opens in Glasgow later this month. Her first solo show [...] The post New solo exhibition by Eleanor Carlingford appeared first on The Lochside Press.

In Edinburgh, former MP Joanna Cherry has left the SNP, saying she had become ashamed to remain a member. Her departure is a significant blow for the party in the capital and is likely to reignite debate about its internal divisions.

Across Scotland, the late publication of Scottish Water sewage discharge data has sparked accusations of a political cover-up before the Holyrood election. Opposition parties say voters are being denied information they were expecting before polling day.

In Westminster, fresh questions are being asked about when ministers were told of concerns over Peter Mandelson’s vetting. The row is piling pressure on Sir Keir Starmer ahead of a statement to MPs on Monday.

In London, the government is set to host a summit on keeping children safe online in the age of artificial intelligence. The meeting on Monday signals growing concern over how fast-moving AI tools are affecting young people, families and schools.

Across the UK, the NHS is urging pregnant women and those trying for a baby to take an important vitamin linked to healthy development. The guidance is a practical reminder for families as public health teams try to reduce avoidable risks in pregnancy.

Palestinian Prisoners’ Day is marked every year on 17 April. It began in 1974, after the Palestinian National Council chose the date to honour the first Palestinian prisoner exchange, linked to Mahmoud Bakr Hijazi’s release in 1971. Hijazi was the first Palestinian to be captured by Israeli occupati

A trailblazing sports group in West Lothian is helping disabled children enjoy the simple joy of getting active, giving them a chance to join in, build confidence and have fun. It’s a heartening example of a community making sure more young people feel included, supported and free to kick loose alongside their peers.

Brighton was the scene of a serious sexual offence in which a 17-year-old boy was attacked after becoming separated from friends on a night out. A court has now jailed Rafael Nascimento for 13 years over the assault at an Airbnb in the city.

Lewes Prison was at the centre of a conspiracy in which drugs and mobile phones were to be thrown over the wall into the jail. Four people have now been convicted, with two having already admitted their part before the latest verdicts were returned.

Brighton will host Mitch Benn for a one-night performance during Brighton Fringe in May. The Radio 4 regular is due to appear at Laughing Horse as part of his wider UK tour.

North London saw Brighton and Hove Albion come from behind to draw 2-2 with Tottenham, thanks to a late equaliser from substitute Georginio Rutter. The point could matter in the run-in and gives Albion supporters something to talk about this weekend.

Sussex Police are investigating a fire at a barber shop after two people in the flat above got out safely. The blaze is being treated as a live incident, with officers working to establish how it started.

Across the South East, music fans turned out early for Record Store Day, with independent shops seeing long queues for exclusive vinyl releases. The annual event again gave a lift to small retailers and drew collectors hoping to snap up limited editions.

In Sussex, broadcaster Zoe Ball hosted a daytime rave aimed at over-50s, giving former clubgoers a more accessible way to get back on the dancefloor. The event reflected a growing appetite for daytime social and music events that avoid late-night barriers.

A much-loved heritage railway in Tunbridge Wells is back on track after the installation of a new bridge, with full services now running again. It’s a lovely boost for volunteers, visitors and local families alike — and a reminder of how treasured community attractions can spring back to life.

Across Hertfordshire, environmental health officers have published a fresh round of food hygiene ratings for local businesses. The latest inspection results offer a useful snapshot of which venues passed well and which may give customers pause before their next visit.

In St Albans, plans for a new Lidl on Ashley Road have gone in with feedback showing strong backing from residents. The scheme now heads into the council process, where details of the store and its local impact will be weighed up.

In Watford, the Palace Theatre has secured close to £1 million from government and Arts Council funding streams. The investment is expected to support upgrades and strengthen the venue’s future as a key cultural hub in Hertfordshire.

Near Kings Langley, a man in his 40s has died after an early morning crash on Watford Road. Police said he was taken to hospital with serious injuries following the collision, but later died.

Ian Smith says he was a "red rag to a bull" after his wife said he would never gain 100 followers.

Westminster is braced for another difficult week for Sir Keir Starmer after the foreign secretary raised concerns about why ministers were not told sooner about vetting issues linked to Peter Mandelson. The prime minister is now expected to address MPs on Monday as calls grow for answers over who knew what, and when.

London will host a government summit on Monday focused on how artificial intelligence is changing childhood and the risks children face online. Ministers are expected to bring together experts and campaigners as pressure builds for clearer safeguards around apps, platforms and AI-generated content.

Kensington Gardens in London reopened after police examined suspicious items found close to the Israeli embassy and decided they were not hazardous. The incident prompted a temporary closure and a major response, underlining ongoing security concerns in one of the capital’s busiest public areas.

London saw Chelsea suffer a damaging defeat to Manchester United that leaves the battle for Champions League qualification looking tighter again. The result boosts United’s hopes while increasing pressure on Chelsea, making it a talking point for football fans heading into the final stretch.

Palestinian Prisoners’ Day is marked every year on 17 April. It began in 1974, after the Palestinian National Council chose the date to honour the first Palestinian prisoner exchange, linked to Mahmoud Bakr Hijazi’s release in 1971. Hijazi was the first Palestinian to be captured by Israeli occupati

A lovely burst of local creativity is on show as members of the Watford Observer Camera Club share their springtime photographs. It’s a cheerful celebration of the season, community spirit and fresh beginnings — just the sort of uplifting reminder that brighter days are here.

Across the South East, including Kent, independent record shops saw music fans queueing for hours for Record Store Day. The annual event brought a rush of shoppers chasing exclusive vinyl and gave a timely boost to small high street businesses.

In Tunbridge Wells, the Spa Valley Railway has reopened fully after a bridge installation project. The return to normal services is likely to be welcome news for visitors and volunteers heading into the heritage line's busy season.

Along the Kent coast, traditional seaside arcades are facing growing pressure from rising costs and changing visitor habits. The report looks at why a long-standing part of British seaside culture could be at risk if operators cannot adapt.

Westminster is braced for another difficult week for Sir Keir Starmer after the foreign secretary said ministers were not told sooner about concerns over Peter Mandelson’s vetting. The prime minister is now under renewed pressure and is expected to address MPs on Monday as questions mount over who knew what and when.

London will host a government summit on Monday focused on keeping children safe online as artificial intelligence becomes more embedded in everyday life. Ministers are expected to discuss how schools, tech firms and parents should respond to new risks facing children on apps, platforms and digital tools.

Kensington Gardens in London has reopened after police examined several suspicious items found near the Israeli embassy and declared them non-hazardous. The alert briefly shut part of a major public space and followed a claim by a group that it had targeted the area with dangerous substances.

Across England, the NHS is urging pregnant women and those trying for a baby to take an important vitamin to support their child’s development. The updated reminder is a practical public health message that could affect many families, especially in the early stages of pregnancy planning.

Palestinian Prisoners’ Day is marked every year on 17 April. It began in 1974, after the Palestinian National Council chose the date to honour the first Palestinian prisoner exchange, linked to Mahmoud Bakr Hijazi’s release in 1971. Hijazi was the first Palestinian to be captured by Israeli occupati

A hidden gem café in Kent is proving that a lovely cuppa and slice of cake can do a bit of good too, with every drink helping to support a worthwhile cause. It sounds like the sort of cosy local spot that brings people together while quietly giving back to the community — a proper feel-good find.

In Clifton, bomb disposal experts were called after a suspicious package led to a police cordon on Saturday. Nottinghamshire Police later said the item had been made safe and the scene was stood down.

Across Nottinghamshire, Sunday is set to be mostly dry with sunny spells through the morning and patchy cloud later on. It should stay settled into the evening, though temperatures will drop once the sun goes down.

Across the East Midlands, nearly £3 million is being invested in museums, libraries and arts venues to improve access to culture. The funding is intended to help local institutions refresh buildings and widen what they offer communities.

The bottom of St Bartholomews Road was taped off

In Nottinghamshire, a Japanese company is considering a £60 million investment to create a new UK headquarters. The proposal is being billed as a boost for economic regeneration and could bring more than 100 jobs to the area.

The road has been closed by police

The crash involved a bus, a car and the 11-year-old boy on his bicycle

Rob was born with an atrial septal defect in his heart and had his first open heart surgery when he was just 18 months old

A former family pet has started an inspiring new chapter by joining Nottinghamshire Police as a fully qualified police dog. After 13 weeks of intensive training, PD Riddick is now ready for duty — a lovely reminder that with care, patience and a chance to shine, a fresh start can lead to something truly special.

In central London, jurors heard a police sergeant thought her spine had been shattered after being struck in the back with a sledgehammer during an alleged Palestine Action attack. The trial is focusing on the seriousness of the injuries and the moment she feared she might be paralysed.

In Hendon, counter-terror police are leading the investigation into an arson attack on a shop after officers linked it to other recent incidents in north-west London. Detectives say the similarities between the attacks are significant enough to warrant specialist involvement.

Across London, Sadiq Khan has said he will continue working with councils of all political stripes after the 7 May local elections, including any controlled by Reform UK or the Greens. The mayor is trying to steady City Hall politics as forecasts point to a more fragmented map of power in the capital.

Across south-east London, a new round-up lists the car boot fairs due to take place during 2026. It pulls together venues and dates in one place as the spring-and-summer bargain-hunting season gets under way.

In Bromley, a remembrance ceremony has been held for five firefighters who died in a bombing raid in 1939. The service marked their sacrifice and brought local people together to remember one of the borough’s wartime losses.

In Crystal Palace, the area is being highlighted for combining one of the UK’s largest mazes with a growing collection of award-winning places to eat. The piece revisits how the neighbourhood’s identity has shifted well beyond its old Crystal Palace landmark.

In Newham, a former council tutor has lost his unfair dismissal claim after being accused of secretly working four other jobs while on sick leave. The council said it discovered the alleged side work through the man’s own published blog.

In Croydon, the council’s assistant chief executive has left after only eight weeks in the role. The abrupt departure adds to concerns over leadership churn and staffing stability at the financially troubled authority.

In Enfield, a new network is being built to connect deaf residents and improve support across the borough. Organisers say the aim is to tackle isolation and create stronger links between local people and services.

In Bromley, a look back at the borough’s vanished cinemas traces what happened to former picture houses in places including Hayes and West Wickham. It is a snapshot of how local high streets and entertainment habits have changed over time.

In Soho, Berwick Street’s long-running vinyl culture is back in the spotlight ahead of Record Store Day 2026. The guide revisits the area’s music heritage while pointing readers towards this year’s key shops and events.

Across London, Tube strikes are due to go ahead next week after the RMT accused TfL of refusing to negotiate properly. The walkouts threaten fresh disruption for commuters as the dispute over drivers’ working arrangements deepens.

In Stratford, a BBC look at the legacy of the 2012 Olympics charts how an area once dismissed as London’s scrapyard was reshaped by billions in investment. The changes have altered housing, jobs and the wider image of east London.

Sir Sadiq Khan, Mayor of London, has vowed to work constructively with any Green or Reform-controlled councils that emerge in London following the local elections on 7 May. The latest survey by JL Partners shows Zack Polanski’s insurgent Greens gaining the most votes in Hackney and Haringey, while r

In central London, around 800 riders turned out for the annual Tweed Run, passing through places including Savile Row, Clerkenwell and Russell Square. What began as a niche outing among friends has become one of the capital’s more distinctive cycling events.

In Westminster, the foreign secretary is reported to be concerned that ministers were not told sooner about fears surrounding Peter Mandelson’s vetting. The row is intensifying pressure on Sir Keir Starmer ahead of a statement to MPs on Monday.

In the UK, ministers will host a summit on Monday focused on keeping children safe online in the age of artificial intelligence. The event signals that regulation, screen safety and the impact of AI on young people are moving further up the political agenda.

In north London, Tottenham’s hopes took another hit after Brighton broke their hearts in the Premier League. The result piles more pressure onto a side now running out of time to turn its season around.

In Britain, historian Anna Keay has been appointed as the official biographer of Queen Elizabeth II. She is expected to draw on access to members of the royal family for what will become a major royal historical account.

Palestinian Prisoners’ Day is marked every year on 17 April. It began in 1974, after the Palestinian National Council chose the date to honour the first Palestinian prisoner exchange, linked to Mahmoud Bakr Hijazi’s release in 1971. Hijazi was the first Palestinian to be captured by Israeli occupati

In the Strait of Hormuz, Iran says the vital shipping route has closed again after attacks on vessels and a dispute over a US blockade. The development raises the risk of fresh disruption to global energy supplies and wider instability in the region.

In Washington, a report claims Donald Trump believed that appearing unpredictable and insulting online could help force Iran back to the negotiating table. The account adds a new layer of intrigue to the already volatile diplomacy around the conflict.

In Australia, an analysis says emissions from coalmines are still increasing despite a flagship government policy designed to reduce climate pollution. The findings raise fresh questions about whether offsets are masking the true pace of emissions cuts.

In Oregon, the decades-long mystery of a family who vanished in 1958 has reportedly been solved after an amateur diver found their wrecked car and remains. The discovery closes one of the US’s most haunting missing-person cases nearly 70 years later.

In Vatican City, the Pope has said comments about tyrants were misread and were not directed at Donald Trump. The clarification follows a public row that had fuelled speculation about a direct clash with the US president.

A London woman is offering a genuinely life-changing chance by raffling off her £370,000 flat for just £5, hoping to help someone from the next generation get a foot on the property ladder. In a city where home ownership can feel impossibly far away, it’s a strikingly generous idea that could make one person’s dream come true.

In Margate, work to bring the Winter Gardens back into use could begin this summer after a long period of uncertainty. The venue is one of Kent’s best-known cultural landmarks, and the next phase will be closely watched by arts and events organisers across the county.

In Canterbury city centre, a former charity shop is set to be sold at auction after shutting earlier this year. The sale points to another change for the high street, with potential interest in how the unit might be reused.

Across Kent and the wider South East, independent record shops saw customers queuing for hours for Record Store Day. The annual event drew collectors and casual buyers alike, giving local music retailers a timely weekend boost.

In Tunbridge Wells, the Spa Valley Railway has resumed full services after a bridge installation project. The reopening restores a popular heritage attraction for visitors from Sevenoaks and nearby towns heading out over the weekend.

Across Kent’s coast, concerns are growing that traditional seaside arcades could be lost as operators face rising costs and changing visitor habits. The warning highlights pressure on a long-standing part of the county’s tourism and cultural identity.

Westminster is braced for another difficult week for Sir Keir Starmer after concerns emerged that ministers were not told sooner about security vetting issues linked to Peter Mandelson’s Washington role. The prime minister is now under mounting pressure to explain what happened when MPs return on Monday.

London will host a government summit on Monday focused on keeping children safe online as artificial intelligence becomes more embedded in everyday life. Ministers are expected to discuss how schools, tech firms and parents should respond to new risks facing young people.

Kensington Gardens in London reopened after police examined suspicious items found close to the Israeli embassy and ruled them non-hazardous. The incident prompted a temporary closure and a visible security response in one of the capital’s busiest public spaces.

London saw Chelsea suffer another damaging setback as Manchester United boosted their hopes of a Champions League place with a significant away win. The result leaves Chelsea under fresh pressure and adds another twist to the race for Europe.

Palestinian Prisoners’ Day is marked every year on 17 April. It began in 1974, after the Palestinian National Council chose the date to honour the first Palestinian prisoner exchange, linked to Mahmoud Bakr Hijazi’s release in 1971. Hijazi was the first Palestinian to be captured by Israeli occupati

A hidden gem café in Kent is serving up more than just a lovely cuppa and a slice of cake — every purchase helps support a good cause too. It’s the sort of cosy, community-minded spot that reminds you how local businesses can make a real difference while keeping everyone well fed.

Bulwell town centre is at the centre of a police appeal after a 14-year-old was threatened with a knife and robbed in an alleyway. Detectives have released an image of a youth they want to identify as inquiries continue into the attack.

Clifton was partly cordoned off on Saturday after police were called to a suspicious package and bomb disposal experts were sent in. The item was later made safe and the police cordon was lifted, ending several hours of disruption.

Nottinghamshire is set for a dry and fairly bright Sunday, with sunny spells early on before patchy cloud builds later in the day. It should stay settled into the evening, although temperatures are expected to feel cooler after sunset.

Nottinghamshire is being considered for a new UK headquarters by a Japanese firm planning to spend £60 million on the project. Backers say the scheme would support regeneration and create more than 100 jobs if it goes ahead.

Nottinghamshire teachers are preparing to strike over what unions describe as severe staffing cuts at an academy. The trust says it regrets the distress caused and is still in talks with the union in an effort to avoid walkouts.

Nottingham city centre is preparing for the launch of its new Rainbow Quarter, with organisers setting out plans for street parties and a public unveiling. The charity behind the district says the programme could also include a visit from Sir Ian McKellen.

Derby police are appealing for witnesses and dashcam footage after an 11-year-old boy died following a collision on Nottingham Road. The crash involved a bus, a car and the child’s bicycle, and happened just before 6.45pm on Friday.

Across the East Midlands, cultural venues are due to benefit from almost £3 million in fresh funding. The investment is intended to improve access to museums, libraries and arts spaces across the region.

Nottinghamshire MP Robert Jenrick has called for new North Sea drilling licences to be approved, arguing current restrictions should be reversed. The intervention adds to the wider political row over energy policy and domestic supply.

In Nottingham, calls have been made for duck-crossing signs after firefighters were sent to rescue a duckling trapped in a drain beside a busy road. The incident has sparked a wider debate about how to protect wildlife in built-up areas.

Kent has a host of historic landmarks

A lovely slice of Nottingham’s history is coming back to life, with the Long Stairs in the Lace Market set to reopen officially after 93 years. Even better, the restored medieval steps will become a welcoming social space for local bands, fundraising events and poetry nights — a brilliant new home for community creativity.

At Noel-Baker Academy in Derby, a parent says his children were told British-themed outfits were not allowed on Culture Day, while the school insists no such ban existed. The disagreement has quickly become a talking point because it touches on school rules, identity and how clearly families are being informed.

On St James's Street in Derby city centre, more pedestrianisation is being lined up as part of a push to create a more café-led destination. The article looks at how a street once known for empty units is being reshaped, with implications for businesses, visitors and the wider city centre economy.

In Chaddesden, Derby, residents have been left reeling after an 11-year-old boy died following a collision involving a bus, a car and his bicycle. The community response has centred on shock and grief as tributes build for the child and his family.

In Chesterfield, a 14-year-old boy is still in custody after a stabbing that left a 16-year-old in hospital and closed a road for around five hours. The incident is the latest serious youth violence case to raise concerns about safety in busy public areas.

In Nottingham, a park was shut for several hours after a suspicious package led to a bomb squad deployment. The incident caused confusion on Saturday and ended only after the area was made safe.

Across Nottingham, the latest fuel price list shows where drivers can still find the cheapest petrol and diesel as costs rise again. With unleaded starting from 150.9p and diesel much higher, the gap between stations could make a noticeable difference over a full tank.

The road has been closed by police

Rob was born with an atrial septal defect in his heart and had his first open heart surgery when he was just 18 months old

No arrests have been made, say Derbyshire Police, as it appeals for witnesses.

A neglected set of medieval steps is getting a new lease of life after local volunteers repaired and restored them for the community. After lying unused for around a century, the historic route is now set for an official opening — a lovely example of local people preserving heritage and making a shared space welcoming again.

Across Nottingham and West Bridgford, the latest forecourt price check shows petrol starting at 150.9p a litre and diesel from about 184.9p. For drivers in Bingham and the wider Rushcliffe area, it offers a useful same-day guide to where filling up may cost less.

Across Nottinghamshire on Sunday 19 April, the forecast is for a dry, fairly bright day with plenty of early sunshine and some patchy cloud later on. Conditions should stay settled into the evening, though it will turn cooler after dark.

In Clifton, Nottinghamshire Police set up a cordon after reports of a suspicious package and called in explosive ordnance disposal specialists. The item was later made safe and the incident stood down, but the response caused disruption while emergency services were on scene.

In Nottinghamshire, a Japanese company is considering a £60m project for its new UK headquarters, with more than 100 jobs said to be part of the plan. Backers say the move would help drive regeneration and could become a significant business investment for the county.

In Nottinghamshire, residents are calling for duck-crossing signs after firefighters were sent to free a duckling trapped in a drain beside a busy road. The rescue has reignited concerns about wildlife safety and traffic in the area.

The road has been closed by police

The crash involved a bus, a car and the 11-year-old boy on his bicycle

Parents and residents in Sherwood are celebrating the opening of the area’s newly refurbished library, describing it as a fantastic new space for families and neighbours alike. As well as bringing books back to the heart of the community, the reopening promises a welcoming place for people to come together, learn and spend time.

Clifton was partly cordoned off on Saturday after police were called to a suspicious package and bomb disposal officers attended. The item was later made safe and the cordon stood down, but the incident caused disruption and concern for people nearby.

Across the East Midlands, nearly £3 million is being invested in museums, libraries and arts venues to improve access and help restore cultural spaces. The funding is being welcomed by regional leaders and could support venues used by communities across Nottinghamshire and Rushcliffe.

Nottinghamshire is set for a dry and fairly bright Sunday, with early sunshine followed by some patchy cloud later in the day. The evening is expected to stay cool and settled, which should suit anyone with local plans across Rushcliffe and nearby villages.

Two teens, aged 17 and 18, were detained by police officers inside Boyes on Lower Parliament Street

Nottinghamshire could gain a major investment after a Japanese company identified the county for a new UK headquarters. The £60 million proposal is tied to economic regeneration and is expected to create more than 100 jobs if it goes ahead.

Loughborough is at the centre of a firearms case after police seized a 3D-printed gun earlier this week. Two Leicestershire men have now been charged following the operation.

Derby could soon see a new solar installation near a hospital if planners give the go-ahead. The scheme is intended to cut energy costs for the NHS trust and provide greater resilience for the site.

The crash involved a bus, a car and the 11-year-old boy on his bicycle

Rob was born with an atrial septal defect in his heart and had his first open heart surgery when he was just 18 months old

Westminster is braced for more fallout after fresh claims that ministers were not told sooner about concerns linked to Peter Mandelson’s vetting. The row is escalating ahead of Sir Keir Starmer’s appearance in Parliament on Monday, with opponents calling for answers at the top of government.

London will host a government summit on Monday focused on keeping children safe online as artificial intelligence becomes more embedded in everyday life. Ministers are expected to discuss how to protect young people from fast-changing digital risks.

Britain’s royal and historical circles are focusing on Anna Keay after she was named as the official biographer of Queen Elizabeth II. The historian is expected to speak to members of the Royal Family as part of the project.

London saw Chelsea’s troubles deepen on Saturday night as Manchester United claimed a result that strengthens their Champions League push. The match leaves the table tighter and raises fresh questions about Chelsea’s direction.

Palestinian Prisoners’ Day is marked every year on 17 April. It began in 1974, after the Palestinian National Council chose the date to honour the first Palestinian prisoner exchange, linked to Mahmoud Bakr Hijazi’s release in 1971. Hijazi was the first Palestinian to be captured by Israeli occupati

The Strait of Hormuz has been closed again, according to Iran, after attacks on ships intensified tensions in one of the world’s most important energy routes. The renewed disruption risks wider economic fallout and adds pressure to an already fragile ceasefire.

Kyiv was hit by a deadly hostage incident after a gunman opened fire inside a supermarket and held people captive. Police later shot the suspect dead after a tense stand-off, with at least six people reported killed.

Madrid is set to host a rally led by Venezuela’s exiled opposition figure María Corina Machado as momentum for political change appears to have stalled. The move comes amid fresh international manoeuvring and uncertainty over the country’s future direction.

Vatican City is trying to calm tensions after Pope Francis said comments about ‘tyrants’ were not directed at Donald Trump. The clarification follows a diplomatic spat that had quickly drawn global attention.

Washington is facing scrutiny after reports claimed Donald Trump believed sounding unstable and insulting online could force Iran back to the negotiating table. The account adds a new layer to questions over how the White House handled the crisis.

A former family pet has started an inspiring new chapter by qualifying as a Nottinghamshire Police dog after 13 weeks of intensive training. PD Riddick’s journey from home companion to working dog is a lovely reminder that with care, patience and the right chance, local success stories can come from the most unexpected places.

Across Sussex and Surrey, planned engineering work is affecting Southern and Thameslink services this weekend. If you are travelling to or from Wadhurst via regional rail connections, expect altered timetables, delays and possible replacement transport on some routes.

In Eastbourne, police have launched an urgent appeal to find a missing man and are asking the public to ring 999 with any immediate sightings. The case has been treated as pressing enough for a direct emergency call request rather than a routine appeal.

In Brighton, a tourist has been jailed for 13 years for raping a 17-year-old boy in an Airbnb after the teenager became separated from friends on a night out. The case centres on a serious sexual offence in the city and ends with a lengthy prison sentence.

In Sussex, police are investigating a blaze at a barber shop after two people in the flat above got out without injury. The fire is now being treated as suspicious enough to merit a formal inquiry.

Across the South East, music fans lined up for hours at independent record shops for Record Store Day releases. The annual event again showed how strong the region's vinyl scene remains, with shoppers turning out early for limited editions and live-store atmosphere.

In the UK, ministers will host a 'Childhood in the Age of AI' summit on Monday as pressure grows over how children are exposed to artificial intelligence online. The meeting is expected to focus on safety rules, platform responsibility and how schools and families deal with increasingly realistic AI tools.

In Westminster, the row over Peter Mandelson’s vetting has deepened after the foreign secretary raised concerns about ministers not being told sooner. Sir Keir Starmer is now under renewed pressure ahead of a Commons statement on Monday, with the handling of government security checks at the centre of the fallout.

In Kensington Gardens, London, police reopened the park after examining suspicious items found close to the Israeli embassy and deciding they were not hazardous. The closure caused disruption on Saturday and follows claims from a group that it had targeted the nearby site with dangerous substances.

In north London, Tottenham were left reeling after Brighton snatched a damaging late result that piles pressure on Spurs. The match sharpened concerns over their form and direction, while Brighton walked away with a result fans will be talking about into the week.

Palestinian Prisoners’ Day is marked every year on 17 April. It began in 1974, after the Palestinian National Council chose the date to honour the first Palestinian prisoner exchange, linked to Mahmoud Bakr Hijazi’s release in 1971. Hijazi was the first Palestinian to be captured by Israeli occupati

A lovely bit of local good news: the heritage railway in Tunbridge Wells has reopened after a bridge installation, with the team delighted to welcome passengers back. It’s a heartening boost for volunteers, visitors and families alike — and a fine reminder of how much these cherished local attractions mean to the community.

In Kent, Emelia Newman found an unexpected original floor beneath a worn hallway carpet while renovating her home. The discovery has struck a chord with anyone tackling older properties, especially as period details can add both character and value.

In Canterbury city centre, a former charity shop premises is set to be sold at auction after the organisation shut the branch earlier this year. The sale will be watched closely by local traders and property buyers looking at what comes next for the site.

In Margate, restoration work to bring the Winter Gardens back into use could begin this summer. The venue has a long musical history, and any step towards reopening will matter to Kent’s live events scene and the town’s wider regeneration plans.

Across Kent, a round-up of standout landmarks highlights everything from dramatic coastline to lesser-known historic sites. It is a useful snapshot of places drawing visitors this spring and the heritage spots shaping the county’s identity.

In Kent, a feature on a lesser-known café spotlights a venue where every drink sold supports charitable work. It offers a local option for anyone after a quieter stop with a community angle rather than a chain café.

Across the South East, independent record shops saw music fans queue for hours for Record Store Day. The annual event remains a strong draw for local high streets, with collectors hunting exclusive releases from the moment doors opened.

In Tunbridge Wells, the heritage railway has reopened fully after a bridge installation allowed services to resume. The return is good news for visitors, volunteers and nearby businesses that benefit from the line’s seasonal trade.

Along the Kent coast, concern is growing over the future of traditional seaside arcades as operators face mounting challenges. The issue goes beyond nostalgia, touching on tourism, family entertainment and the identity of resort towns.

A welcome boost for Kent’s cultural scene: Turner Contemporary has received £865,000 in funding as part of the government’s Arts Everywhere Fund. It’s the sort of investment that can help local creativity flourish, support jobs and give residents and visitors even more reasons to feel proud of one of the county’s standout arts venues.

Nottinghamshire is set for a dry and fairly bright Sunday, with sunshine early on before patchy cloud builds through the afternoon. For Radcliffe on Trent and nearby villages, it points to a settled but cool day and a chilly evening.

Nottinghamshire is being lined up for a new UK headquarters by a Japanese firm planning to invest £60m. The project is said to support regeneration and create more than 100 jobs, making it one of the bigger business stories in the county this week.

Nottinghamshire teachers are threatening strike action over what unions describe as severe job losses at an academy. The trust says it is in talks to avoid disruption, but the row could still affect pupils and families if no agreement is reached.

The East Midlands is set to receive almost £3m for museums, libraries and arts venues across the region. The funding is aimed at improving access to culture and could support projects used by residents across Nottinghamshire.

Nottingham is preparing to unveil its new Rainbow Quarter, with organisers promising street parties and a major public launch. The charity behind the district has also revealed when the project will be introduced, adding a cultural talking point for the city.

Westminster is braced for another difficult week for Sir Keir Starmer after fresh claims that ministers were not told sooner about concerns over Peter Mandelson’s vetting. The row is set to spill into Parliament on Monday, with opposition figures demanding answers and some calling for resignations.

London will host a government summit on Monday focused on how children can be protected online as AI tools become more widespread. The meeting is expected to bring together ministers and experts as pressure grows for clearer safeguards around harmful content, deepfakes and digital risks.

Kensington Gardens in London has reopened after police investigated suspicious items found near the Israeli embassy and declared them non-hazardous. The incident prompted a temporary closure and renewed concern over security in a high-profile part of the capital.

Across England, the NHS is reminding pregnant women and those trying for a baby to take folic acid to help reduce the risk of serious birth defects. The advice is a timely health prompt, particularly for people in the earliest stages of pregnancy when support and supplementation matter most.

Palestinian Prisoners’ Day is marked every year on 17 April. It began in 1974, after the Palestinian National Council chose the date to honour the first Palestinian prisoner exchange, linked to Mahmoud Bakr Hijazi’s release in 1971. Hijazi was the first Palestinian to be captured by Israeli occupati

A lovely slice of Nottingham history is coming back to life, with the city’s medieval Long Stairs set to officially reopen after 93 years. Even better, the restored space will be used for local bands, fundraising events and poetry nights – turning a long-closed landmark into a welcoming new spot for community life.

In Nottinghamshire, teachers at an academy are threatening strike action over what unions describe as severe staffing cuts. The school trust says talks are under way to avoid disruption, but the row raises fresh questions over budgets, jobs and the impact on children.

In Nottinghamshire, a Japanese company is considering a £60m investment to set up its UK headquarters and create more than 100 jobs. The proposal is being pitched as a major regeneration boost, with wider implications for business growth and employment across the area.

In Nottingham city centre, organisers behind the new Rainbow Quarter have set out plans for launch events including street parties and a possible visit from Sir Ian McKellen. The project aims to establish a dedicated LGBTQ+ district and bring new cultural energy to the area.

Across Nottinghamshire, Sunday is expected to be dry and fairly bright with early sunshine and patchy cloud later on. It should stay settled into the evening, though temperatures are likely to dip once the sun goes down.

Across the East Midlands, nearly £3m is being invested in museums, libraries and arts venues to improve access to culture. The funding is intended to support upgrades and help local organisations attract more visitors and community use.

In Bulwell town centre, Nottingham, detectives are appealing for help after a 14-year-old was robbed at knifepoint in an alleyway. Officers have issued an image of someone they want to identify as the investigation continues.

In Clifton, Nottingham, a park was closed for several hours after reports of a suspicious package prompted a bomb disposal response. Police later made the item safe, but the incident caused major disruption and concern for people nearby.

In Nottinghamshire, firefighters were called out after a duckling became trapped in a drain while trying to cross a busy road. The rescue has sparked calls for warning signs to protect wildlife at the spot.

In Derbyshire, a woman has described losing £11,000 to courier scammers despite thinking she was too savvy to be caught out. Her account is a stark reminder of how persuasive fraudsters can be and how quickly these scams escalate.

The early morning walks are part of events to mark International Dawn Chorus Day on 3 May.

A lovely slice of Nottingham history is coming back to life, with the Long Stairs in the Lace Market officially reopening after 93 years. Even better, the restored medieval steps are set to become a welcoming community space for local bands, fundraising events and poetry nights — a wonderful new chapter for an old landmark.

In Nottinghamshire, a Japanese firm is considering the county for a new UK headquarters as part of a £60 million investment. The proposal is being pitched as a boost for regeneration and employment, with more than 100 jobs potentially created if it goes ahead.

In Nottinghamshire, teachers are threatening strike action over what unions describe as severe job losses at an academy. The trust says talks are continuing in an effort to avoid disruption, but the dispute raises questions for families about staffing and lessons in the weeks ahead.

Across Nottinghamshire, Sunday is expected to stay mostly dry with sunny spells early on and patchy cloud building later in the day. It should remain settled into the evening, though temperatures are set to feel cooler after sunset.

Across the East Midlands, nearly £3 million is being allocated to improve museums, libraries and arts venues. Regional leaders say the money should widen access and help revive cultural spaces used by local communities.

In Nottingham, a park was closed for several hours after police were called to a suspicious package and bomb disposal experts were sent in. The incident caused disruption before the item was made safe and the area reopened.

In Bulwell town centre, Nottingham detectives are investigating after a 14-year-old boy was robbed at knifepoint in an alleyway. Officers have now released an image of a youth they want to trace as enquiries continue.

On Nottingham Road in Derby, an 11-year-old boy has died after a collision involving a cyclist, a bus and a car on Friday evening. Derbyshire Police are asking for witnesses and dashcam footage as they investigate what happened.

In Nottingham, calls have been made for duck-crossing signs after firefighters rescued a duckling trapped in a drain beside a busy road. The incident has prompted renewed concern about wildlife safety near traffic.

In Derbyshire, a woman says courier scammers stole £11,000 from her despite her being confident with technology. Her case is being highlighted as a warning about a scam that can appear convincing and catch out almost anyone.

Sherwood Library’s reopening is a lovely boost for the local community, giving residents a bright, refreshed space to read, learn and come together. It’s the kind of investment that makes a neighbourhood feel cared for — and a welcome new chapter for one of Sherwood’s most valued public spaces.

In England, Samantha Bradshaw says she lost £11,000 after being targeted by courier scammers despite considering herself tech-savvy. The case is a stark warning about a fraud method that relies on pressure, impersonation and convincing victims to hand over cash or cards.

In England, Ana Machado says she has not received any of the £35,000 awarded after an employment tribunal found her dismissal from a bar was linked to her nationality. The ruling described the treatment as harassment, raising fresh questions about enforcement when compensation goes unpaid.

Westminster is braced for another difficult week for Sir Keir Starmer after new claims that ministers were not told sooner about concerns over Peter Mandelson’s vetting. The prime minister is now facing calls to resign and is due to address MPs on Monday, keeping the row firmly at the top of the political agenda.

London will host a government summit on Monday focused on how children can be kept safe online as artificial intelligence becomes more embedded in daily life. Ministers are expected to discuss the risks facing young people, making this a live policy issue for families, schools and tech firms.

Kensington Gardens in London has reopened after police examined suspicious items found near the Israeli embassy and concluded they were not hazardous. The incident still caused a major security response and briefly shut part of one of the capital’s busiest public spaces.

London saw Manchester United strengthen their push for Champions League football with a big result against Chelsea, while deepening the pressure on the home side. For readers in Greater Manchester, it is the kind of late-season win that could shape both clubs’ run-ins and dominate football chat today.

Palestinian Prisoners’ Day is marked every year on 17 April. It began in 1974, after the Palestinian National Council chose the date to honour the first Palestinian prisoner exchange, linked to Mahmoud Bakr Hijazi’s release in 1971. Hijazi was the first Palestinian to be captured by Israeli occupati

A family has been joyfully reunited with a daughter’s book more than 55 years after it was lost, thanks to the kindness of a stranger who was determined to track down its original owner. It’s a lovely reminder that small acts of care can bring back treasured memories and connect people across generations.

At Upton Slip on Church Street in Falmouth, an application has gone in for The Wheelhouse to sell alcohol and play recorded music. Cornwall Council will decide whether the waterfront venue gets a premises licence, a move that could change the feel of the area for nearby residents and visitors.

In Falmouth, a new community choir has opened its doors with no auditions and no requirement for previous singing experience. Falmouth Chorus is aiming to attract residents who fancy a regular local social activity as well as a chance to perform.

In Truro, Hall for Cornwall has announced 25 productions for its 2026/27 season. The programme spans musical theatre, comedy, drama and entertainment, giving Cornish theatregoers an early look at what will be coming to the county’s main stage.

In Helston, optometrist Maria Zawadyl is preparing to run the London Marathon to raise money for the RNIB. Her effort puts a local face on a national charity campaign supporting people living with sight loss.

In Newlyn, police say they seized Class A and Class B drugs after raiding a property. A man was arrested and later bailed while enquiries continue, with officers investigating suspected local supply activity.

In Cornwall, a councillor has come under fire after promoting chemical weedkiller, prompting criticism from residents and campaigners. The row has opened a wider argument about how public spaces should be managed and whether tidy streets should come at an environmental cost.

In Cornwall, a historic house linked to the county’s tin barons has been bought in a deal that secures its future. The new owners are considering public access while continuing holiday lettings, giving the property a potential new role in Cornwall’s heritage scene.

'These have been a game-changer in terms of how quickly I am able to fall asleep - after several years of difficulty'

Across Cornwall and Devon, B&B owners are pushing back against proposals for a tourist tax, warning it could deter visitors and damage already stretched businesses. The dispute goes to the heart of how the region pays for tourism while depending on it for jobs and income.

Across Cornwall, the latest round-up of planning applications includes proposals affecting housing, historic features and public access. Among them are new homes, changes to a boundary wall, a surf lifesaving clubhouse and a sauna scheme that could affect a right of way.

In the Caradon area of Cornwall, new 20mph speed limits are being planned for residential roads. The proposal is part of a wider push to slow traffic in built-up areas and could influence similar measures elsewhere in the county.

Near St Austell, police have recorded speeds of up to 94mph on a road where two people have previously been killed. Officers say enforcement is being stepped up after a run of serious and fatal collisions, with renewed warnings to drivers to slow down.

In Camborne, the town’s rugby club has secured promotion to National One after sealing the National Two West title. It is a major sporting moment for west Cornwall and marks a significant step up in level for the club.

In Camborne, preparations are under way for Trevithick Day on 25 April, with steam engines, music and dancing planned across the town. The annual event celebrates engineering pioneer Richard Trevithick and is one of Cornwall’s best-known community festivals.

In Newquay, surf and watersports businesses are being invited to take part in a legal campaign over sewage pollution and its impact on the coastline. The move highlights mounting concern over both public health and the local economy in one of Cornwall’s busiest seaside towns.

In Westminster, the row over Peter Mandelson’s vetting has deepened after claims ministers were not told sooner about concerns. Sir Keir Starmer is now under renewed political pressure ahead of a statement to MPs on Monday.

In London, the government is due to host a summit on Monday focused on protecting children online as artificial intelligence becomes more widespread. The discussions are expected to centre on how fast regulation and safeguarding can keep up with new technology.

In the UK, historian Anna Keay has been named as the official biographer of Queen Elizabeth II. The project will include access to members of the Royal Family and is likely to shape the historical account of the late Queen’s life for years to come.

At Stamford Bridge in London, Manchester United strengthened their Champions League hopes with a result that left Chelsea under even more pressure. The outcome sharpens the fight at the top end of the Premier League and adds to the scrutiny on Chelsea’s season.

Palestinian Prisoners’ Day is marked every year on 17 April. It began in 1974, after the Palestinian National Council chose the date to honour the first Palestinian prisoner exchange, linked to Mahmoud Bakr Hijazi’s release in 1971. Hijazi was the first Palestinian to be captured by Israeli occupati

In the Strait of Hormuz, Iran says the vital shipping route has been closed again after attacks on vessels and amid accusations of a US blockade. Any prolonged disruption there could quickly affect global oil markets and wider international trade.

In Washington, a report says Donald Trump believed that appearing unpredictable and insulting online would push Iran towards negotiations. The claim offers a revealing look at the thinking behind US messaging during a highly tense international standoff.

In Australia, a group called Energy for Australians has come under scrutiny after reports it received more than $1 million from the coal lobby while presenting itself as independent. The disclosure has fuelled claims of astroturfing and raised fresh questions about transparency in political campaigning.

In Oregon, the disappearance of a family missing since 1958 has reportedly been solved after an amateur diver located their wrecked car and remains. The discovery appears to close one of the US’s longest-running missing persons mysteries.

At the Vatican, Pope Francis has said comments referring to ‘tyrants’ were not directed at Donald Trump after the remarks triggered a political spat. The clarification comes as tensions remain high between parts of the Catholic Church and the US political right.

A lovely bit of Cornish good news: rising young actor Lox Pratt has been named on the Young Power List 2026, a brilliant nod to his growing success. It’s always heartening to see local talent making waves on the national stage, and this feels like a proud moment for Cornwall.

In Brentwood, a well-known bakery has been put on the market with an asking price of under £50,000. The listing points to a prominent spot, making it a notable shift for local shoppers and anyone watching the town centre economy.

In Brentwood, local historian Sylvia Kent has revisited the story of the Larkin family and the mark they left on the town. It sheds light on a lesser-known part of Brentwood’s past and how one family’s influence still echoes locally.

In Essex, a popular restaurant has picked up fresh attention after Stacey Solomon and her family visited for a celebratory meal. The story gives a snapshot of a venue that is already well known with diners across the county.

In Essex, a former cinema near one of the county’s busiest railway stations is back in the spotlight as its short-lived history is retold. The piece looks at a vanished local landmark that many residents may never have known existed.

At Gallows Corner in Romford, Transport for London still has not given an exact reopening date despite saying the junction should reopen by the end of April. That uncertainty matters for drivers using one of the key routes linking east London and Essex.

In Essex, police are continuing their search for a man described as high risk who was recalled to prison months ago. Officers are renewing the appeal as he remains outstanding.

In Essex, the school with the highest level of unauthorised absence has been identified in new reporting on attendance. School leaders say improving strong, sustained attendance remains a priority.

In an Essex town, police have highlighted a man responsible for stealing hundreds of pounds from local businesses. Officers said offences like these can have a devastating effect on staff and small firms.

In Thurrock, plans for a new crematorium have been given the go-ahead after supporters argued the service is badly needed. The decision adds a significant new piece of public infrastructure for families across south Essex.

On the M11 in Essex, a crash involving two vehicles is slowing traffic and prompting warnings for drivers. Anyone travelling through the area should expect delays while the incident is dealt with.

In Colchester, a historic graveyard is set to reopen to the public as part of a wider £40 million regeneration scheme. The move brings a notable heritage site back into public use while reshaping part of the city centre.

In Colchester, supporters have been weighing up the prospect of John Terry becoming involved in a takeover at Colchester United. Fans told the BBC the idea brings a mix of excitement, intrigue and unease about what comes next for the club.

In the East of England, the leader of a county council Green group has criticised what they call industrial-scale solar farms. The argument is that more schemes should be locally owned and placed on rooftops instead.

An EastEnders villain will return to our screens soon after a two-year break.

One man says he cancelled his holiday to Spain due to the rising costs and uncertainty.

In Westminster, the row over Peter Mandelson’s vetting has deepened after the foreign secretary raised concerns about why ministers were not told sooner. The issue is set to return to Parliament on Monday, with pressure mounting on Sir Keir Starmer.

In London, the government is due to host a summit on Monday focused on keeping children safe online in the age of AI. The event signals growing concern in Westminster about how fast new technology is changing risks for young people.

In Kensington, London, police have reopened Kensington Gardens after investigating suspicious items found near the Israeli embassy. Officers later said the items were not hazardous.

At Stamford Bridge in London, Manchester United strengthened their Champions League push with a result that left Chelsea under more pressure. The match has major implications in the battle near the top of the Premier League table.

Palestinian Prisoners’ Day is marked every year on 17 April. It began in 1974, after the Palestinian National Council chose the date to honour the first Palestinian prisoner exchange, linked to Mahmoud Bakr Hijazi’s release in 1971. Hijazi was the first Palestinian to be captured by Israeli occupati

In the Gulf, Iran says the Strait of Hormuz has been closed again after ships came under attack. The move raises fresh fears for global energy markets and wider regional stability.

In Washington, reports suggest Donald Trump believed that appearing erratic and insulting online would pressure Iran into talks. The claim offers a striking look at the strategy said to be shaping US messaging during the crisis.

In Australia, a group called Energy for Australians has been reported to have received more than $1 million from coal industry interests while presenting itself as independent. Critics say the funding raises serious questions about transparency in the country’s energy debate.

In Oregon, the decades-old mystery of a family who vanished in 1958 has reportedly been solved after a diver found their car and remains. The breakthrough closes one of the state’s most haunting unsolved cases.

At the Vatican, Pope Francis has said comments interpreted as a swipe at Donald Trump were misunderstood. The clarification comes after a public spat over the meaning of his speech.

A lovely bit of good news from Essex: an adorable rescue dog has finally found her forever home after spending 200 days at a shelter. Having arrived with her six young puppies, her happy ending is a heartwarming reminder of the care rescue animals receive — and the joy of giving one a second chance.

Across London, Tube drivers are set to strike next week after the RMT said talks with Transport for London had broken down. That raises the prospect of heavy disruption on Underground routes used by many commuters travelling in and out of Wandsworth and nearby stations.

In Kensington Gardens, police have finished examining suspicious items linked to claims about a nearby incident at the Israeli embassy and found no hazardous substances. The update brings an end to a high-profile security scare in west London that briefly prompted a major police response.

From Savile Row to Clerkenwell and Russell Square, around 800 riders took part in this year’s Tweed Run through London. What began as a niche gathering has become a sizeable annual spectacle, drawing crowds and affecting parts of central London for the day.

At Stamford Bridge in London, Chelsea were beaten by Manchester United in a result that deepens the pressure around the club’s campaign. The loss dents hopes of a strong finish and is likely to intensify scrutiny of performances and direction at boardroom level.

In Westminster, the row over Peter Mandelson’s vetting has escalated again after concerns emerged about how quickly ministers were informed. Sir Keir Starmer is now under renewed political pressure ahead of a statement to MPs on Monday.

In London, ministers are due to host a summit on Monday focused on protecting children online in the age of artificial intelligence. The event is expected to bring together policymakers and technology figures as pressure grows for tougher safeguards.

In the UK, historian Anna Keay has been chosen as the official biographer of Queen Elizabeth II. The appointment means she will work with access to royal sources and interviews, shaping the first authorised account of the late monarch’s life.

Palestinian Prisoners’ Day is marked every year on 17 April. It began in 1974, after the Palestinian National Council chose the date to honour the first Palestinian prisoner exchange, linked to Mahmoud Bakr Hijazi’s release in 1971. Hijazi was the first Palestinian to be captured by Israeli occupati

In the Strait of Hormuz, Iran says the waterway has been closed again after vessels came under attack. The move risks fresh disruption to global energy markets and adds to fears that the ceasefire is unravelling.

In Washington, a new report claims Donald Trump believed provocative social media posts would push Iran towards negotiations. The account offers a striking glimpse into how the White House allegedly tried to use brinkmanship during the crisis.

In Australia, an organisation presenting itself as independent has reportedly received more than $1m from a coal industry body. The revelation is likely to fuel arguments over transparency, political influence and who is really funding energy campaigning.

In Oregon, an amateur diver has helped solve the decades-old disappearance of a family who vanished in 1958. Their wrecked car and remains were found after nearly 70 years, bringing a grim answer to one of the state’s longest-running mysteries.

At the Vatican, Pope Francis has said comments in a recent speech were not aimed at Donald Trump after they triggered a political spat. The clarification comes as the remarks continue to ripple through international debate.

A lovely new London walking tour is inviting people to step back into the capital’s past by following the routes, post boxes and stories of generations of posties. Run by The Postal Museum, it sounds like a charming way to celebrate everyday local history and see the city through a fresh, nostalgic lens.

North Yorkshire is at the centre of fresh debate over whether natural flood management can reduce the impact of heavy rain and swollen rivers. The piece looks at what these schemes can realistically achieve for places across the county, including flood-prone communities, and where their limits still lie.

York is welcoming changes to council tax debt collection after criticism that the previous system was far too harsh. The reform matters because it could alter how quickly struggling households are chased for arrears and extra charges.

Scarborough Spa hosted a sci-fi convention that brought Star Wars characters, cosplay and crowds to the Yorkshire coast. The event is another reminder of how seaside venues are pulling in visitors with big themed festivals outside the traditional summer season.

The East Coast Main Line faced more lengthy disruption, with knock-on effects for passengers travelling through Yorkshire. Anyone heading south or changing at York was being warned to expect delays once again on one of the region’s most important rail routes.

Here is our review of Yorkshire rockstar Yungblud's Leeds Arena show last night

A council worker and police officer suffered injuries to their arms and buttocks, police say.

A man who spent many years working on the Yorkshire Evening Post has died aged 91.

Leigh Leopards' attack proves too strong for York Knights as they win 18-6 to claim their first away victory of the Super League season.

Westminster is braced for more fallout after new questions over when ministers were told about concerns linked to Peter Mandelson’s vetting. With Sir Keir Starmer due to address MPs on Monday, the row is turning into a wider test of trust and accountability at the top of government.

London will host a government summit on Monday focused on keeping children safe online in the age of artificial intelligence. The meeting signals growing concern over how fast-moving AI tools are changing what young people can see, share and be exposed to on the internet.

Kensington Gardens in London has reopened after police examined suspicious items found near the Israeli embassy. Officers later said the items were not hazardous, but the incident caused disruption and a significant security response in the area.

Across England, the NHS is urging women who are pregnant or trying for a baby to take an important vitamin supplement. The advice is designed to lower health risks for babies and is a timely reminder of guidance many families may not know in full.

Palestinian Prisoners’ Day is marked every year on 17 April. It began in 1974, after the Palestinian National Council chose the date to honour the first Palestinian prisoner exchange, linked to Mahmoud Bakr Hijazi’s release in 1971. Hijazi was the first Palestinian to be captured by Israeli occupati

There’s some lovely news from York, where St Paul’s Nursery School is finally back in its home after two and a half years of rebuilding and improvements. After such a long stretch on the move, the return feels like a real community milestone — and a joyful fresh start for staff, children and families alike.

In Clifton, police and bomb disposal officers were called to a suspicious package that led to a cordon and disruption on Saturday. Nottinghamshire Police later said the item had been made safe and the scene was stood down.

On Nottingham Road in Derby, an 11-year-old boy died after a collision involving a bus, a car and a cyclist on Friday evening. Police are now asking for witnesses and dashcam footage as they investigate what happened.

Across the East Midlands, nearly £3 million is being invested in museums, libraries and arts venues to improve access and help revive cultural spaces. The funding is expected to support projects around the region, with the mayor backing the move as a boost for local culture.

The bottom of St Bartholomews Road was taped off

Across Nottinghamshire, Sunday is expected to stay mostly dry with sunny spells through the morning and some patchy cloud later on. Conditions should remain settled into the evening, though it will turn cooler after dark.

In Nottinghamshire, a Japanese company is considering a £60 million investment to build its new UK headquarters. The scheme is being pitched as a major regeneration project and could create more than 100 jobs in the county.

In Nottinghamshire, campaigners are calling for duck-crossing signs after firefighters rescued a duckling trapped in a drain beside a busy road. The incident has prompted fresh concerns about wildlife safety at the crossing point.

The road has been closed by police

The crash involved a bus, a car and the 11-year-old boy on his bicycle

Rob was born with an atrial septal defect in his heart and had his first open heart surgery when he was just 18 months old

In Westminster, David Lammy has said ministers should have been told sooner about concerns linked to Peter Mandelson’s vetting. The row is piling more pressure on Sir Keir Starmer ahead of a statement to MPs on Monday.

In London, the government will host a summit on Monday focused on protecting children online in the age of artificial intelligence. Ministers are expected to discuss how fast-moving tech is changing risks around safety, content and digital harms.

In the UK, historian Anna Keay has been named as the official biographer of Queen Elizabeth II. She is expected to interview members of the Royal Family as part of a major new account of the late Queen’s life.

At Stamford Bridge in London, Manchester United strengthened their Champions League push with a result that leaves Chelsea under more pressure. The outcome could reshape the battle for European places as the season enters its closing weeks.

Across England, the NHS is urging pregnant women and those trying for a baby to take an important vitamin supplement. The advice is aimed at lowering health risks for babies and comes as a timely reminder for families planning pregnancies.

In the Strait of Hormuz, Iran says the vital waterway has been closed again after ships were attacked. The move risks further disruption to global shipping and energy markets, with Tehran blaming a US blockade for the latest escalation.

In Washington, reports suggest Donald Trump believed sounding erratic and insulting online would push Iran towards negotiations. The claim offers a striking glimpse into the strategy behind his public messaging during the crisis.

In Australia, a group called Energy for Australians has been reported to receive more than $1 million from coal industry backers while presenting itself as independent. Critics say the funding raises serious questions about transparency and political influence.

In Kyiv, at least six people were killed after a gunman opened fire and took hostages inside a supermarket. Police ended the siege by storming the building after failed negotiations and a shoot-out.

At the Vatican, the Pope has said comments about tyrants were misread and were not directed at Donald Trump. The clarification follows a public spat that had stirred diplomatic tension with the US president.

A lovely local success story: PD Riddick, once a family pet, has started an exciting new chapter as a newly qualified police dog with Nottinghamshire Police. After 13 weeks of intensive training, the 18-month-old Belgian Malinois cross is now ready to help keep communities safe — proof that a fresh start can lead to something truly special.

In Doncaster, childcare provider Partou says it will take on 50 extra apprentices after securing support through a levy gifting deal with Aldi UK. The move could open up new training routes in early years work across the town, including at its two Doncaster settings.

At Doncaster Royal Infirmary, 90-year-old Coralie May has returned to volunteer work in the hospital shop. Her story shines a light on the people keeping day-to-day hospital services going and the quiet community effort behind them.

In South Yorkshire, the driver responsible for the death of police communications officer Ellie Smart has been sentenced to nine years in prison. The case has drawn strong attention because of Smart’s role with South Yorkshire Police and the impact on colleagues and family.

In South Yorkshire, a man has been arrested and dogs have been seized after two attacks that left a council worker and a police officer injured. Police say both suffered bite injuries, raising fresh concern about public safety and control of dangerous dogs.

There are a lot of care homes across Yorkshire and so it can be difficult to choose between them

Westminster is braced for another difficult week for Sir Keir Starmer after the Foreign Secretary raised concerns about why ministers were not told sooner about fears over Peter Mandelson’s vetting. The row is now feeding calls for the Prime Minister to resign, with MPs expecting him to address the issue on Monday.

London will host a government summit on Monday focused on how children can be kept safe online as artificial intelligence becomes more widespread. The meeting is expected to look at risks facing young people and could shape future rules for tech firms, schools and parents.

Kensington Gardens in London has reopened after police examined suspicious items found close to the Israeli embassy and decided they were not hazardous. The incident caused a temporary closure and added to security concerns around the area on Saturday.

London and Manchester were at the centre of a significant Premier League result as Manchester United strengthened their Champions League hopes by beating Chelsea. The outcome leaves Chelsea under fresh pressure and could have a big say in the race for European places.

Palestinian Prisoners’ Day is marked every year on 17 April. It began in 1974, after the Palestinian National Council chose the date to honour the first Palestinian prisoner exchange, linked to Mahmoud Bakr Hijazi’s release in 1971. Hijazi was the first Palestinian to be captured by Israeli occupati

A lovely bit of good news for Dunsville: a brand-new Morrisons Daily store and post office are set to open on the High Street on 23 April, giving residents a handy new place to shop and access everyday services. It’s a welcome boost for the village and a positive sign of fresh investment in the local community.

In Essex, police say a man classed as high risk is still wanted months after being recalled to prison. Officers have renewed the appeal as the search drags on, raising fresh concerns about public safety across the county.

In an Essex town, police have issued an image of a man convicted of stealing hundreds of pounds from local businesses. Officers said the impact on shop staff can be severe, with small firms often hit hardest by repeat thefts.

In Essex, a school has been identified as having the county’s worst attendance rate. Leaders said improving regular attendance remains a priority as concern grows over missed learning and persistent absence.

In Newham, a council tutor was dismissed after his employer discovered he had been working four other jobs while on sick leave. The case then failed at tribunal, with his own published blog said to have helped expose the arrangement.

In Hendon, counter-terror police are leading an investigation into a shop fire after linking it to similarities with other recent incidents. The case has raised the stakes well beyond a routine arson inquiry in north-west London.

In London, a court heard a police sergeant believed her spine might have been shattered after she was hit in the back with a sledgehammer. Jurors were told she feared being paralysed during an alleged attack linked to a Palestine Action activist.

Across London, the mayor has said he will continue working with councils of all political stripes after the 7 May elections, including Reform UK and Green administrations. The remarks point to a pragmatic approach ahead of what could be a more fractured political map in the capital.

In Enfield, campaigners are building a new network for deaf residents aimed at improving support, visibility and community links. The initiative is designed to create stronger local connections and give deaf people a clearer shared voice in the borough.

In Croydon, the council’s assistant chief executive has resigned after only eight weeks in the role. The departure adds to continuing concerns over staffing stability at the financially troubled authority.

In New Addington, Reform is pressing ahead with a campaign walkabout after around a dozen members and candidates reportedly resigned. The event has become a test of whether the party can recover quickly from public internal turmoil.

At an Essex restaurant, Stacey Solomon and her family were recently spotted celebrating over dinner. The visit has put another spotlight on a venue already popular with diners across the county.

In Colchester, a historic graveyard is due to reopen to the public as part of a wider £40 million regeneration scheme. The move is expected to bring a notable heritage site back into everyday use while reshaping the surrounding area.

In Woolwich, another extension plan has emerged for the building that houses a Wetherspoon’s pub. The latest proposal suggests more change is still on the table for a prominent town-centre site.

Across London, Tube drivers in the RMT are due to strike on multiple dates in April, May and June in a dispute over working hours. The action is set to disrupt journeys well beyond central London, with commuters being urged to check travel plans in advance.

Long before it was the backdrop for the iconic Oasis ‘Morning Glory’ cover, Soho’s Berwick Street was known globally as the “Golden Mile of Vinyl“. At its peak in the 1990s, this single stretch of road hosted more than 20 independent record stores, nestled between fruit stalls and the area’s infamou

RMT union accuses TfL bosses of reneging on promises, making Tube driver strike action next week ‘inevitable’

In Stratford, the long-term legacy of the 2012 Olympics is still visible in homes, transport links and investment across the area. What was once written off as industrial backland has been transformed by billions of pounds of redevelopment.

In Westminster, the row over Peter Mandelson’s vetting has deepened after ministers said they were not told of concerns sooner. Sir Keir Starmer is now under renewed pressure and is expected to address MPs on Monday.

In the UK, ministers are due to host a summit on Monday focused on children’s online safety as artificial intelligence becomes more widespread. The meeting is expected to look at how regulation and technology firms can better protect younger users.

In Britain, historian Anna Keay has been named as the official biographer of Queen Elizabeth II. The project will include access to members of the Royal Family and is likely to become one of the defining accounts of the late Queen’s life.

In north London, Tottenham suffered another damaging result against Brighton that has intensified the pressure around the club. The defeat leaves Spurs in a worsening position and fuels fresh debate about how quickly things are unravelling.

Palestinian Prisoners’ Day is marked every year on 17 April. It began in 1974, after the Palestinian National Council chose the date to honour the first Palestinian prisoner exchange, linked to Mahmoud Bakr Hijazi’s release in 1971. Hijazi was the first Palestinian to be captured by Israeli occupati

In the Strait of Hormuz, Iran says the vital shipping route has closed again after vessels were attacked. The renewed disruption threatens global energy supplies and risks pulling the region into a deeper confrontation.

In Kyiv, at least six people were killed after a gunman opened fire and took hostages inside a supermarket. Police ended the siege after negotiations failed, in an incident Ukrainian officials described as a terrorist act.

In Australia, a group branding itself as independent is reported to have received more than $1 million from the coal industry while running anti-Labor advertising. Critics say the donations raise serious questions about transparency and astroturfing in political campaigning.

At the Vatican, the Pope has said comments referring to tyrants were not directed at Donald Trump after reports of a growing spat. The clarification comes as tensions between moral authority and political power are being closely watched.

In the United States, a report says Donald Trump believed appearing unstable and insulting in public posts would pressure Iran into talks. The claim offers a striking glimpse into the thinking behind his approach during a dangerous international standoff.

A London woman is offering an extraordinary helping hand by raffling off her £370,000 flat for just £5, hoping to give someone a real chance of getting on the property ladder. In a city where owning a home can feel miles out of reach, it’s a genuinely generous idea that could change one person’s life.

Across Devon, gardeners are being urged to tackle one straightforward job before the end of April if they want stronger daffodil displays next spring. The advice focuses on helping bulbs store enough energy now, rather than cutting back too soon and weakening next year’s flowers.

Across Devon, householders with worn or patchy grass are being told there is still time in April to help lawns recover before summer. The guidance points to one practical step that can improve growth as temperatures rise and gardens start to dry out.

In homes across Devon, a low-cost oven-cleaning method is being shared as an easy way to clear grime from the glass without heavy scrubbing. The tip relies on a cupboard staple and is aimed at people trying to sort spring cleaning jobs cheaply.

In Paignton, residents are being invited to shape the future of the town’s historic monastery through a public consultation. The process will help decide how the site should be used and preserved, putting local opinion at the centre of the next stage.

Across the South West, taxpayers are being warned that frozen thresholds are dragging more earners into higher tax bands. The concern is that people may not notice the impact straight away, even though take-home pay can be squeezed over time.

In Exeter, a flat has been shut down under a full closure order following persistent reports of anti-social behaviour. The move means access to the property is now restricted, with police and partner agencies using stronger powers to tackle ongoing disruption.

In Hemel Hempstead, Torquay United slipped to a 2-1 defeat that dented their play-off push, with manager Jimmy Ball saying his side struggled with the pressure. The result leaves the promotion battle looking tighter at a crucial point in the season.

In Devon, a family has been reunited with a book that once belonged to their daughter more than five decades ago. The discovery began when Nicola Lomax picked up the old book, became curious about its history and set out to trace the original owner.

Volunteers from the Rotary Club of Torquay have rolled up their sleeves to give Torbay Hospital’s Heartsease baby loss garden a thoughtful makeover. It’s a lovely act of community kindness, helping preserve a peaceful, comforting space for families who need it most.

In a York village, planners have refused a proposed 57ft 5G mast after concerns it would be too visually intrusive. The decision is likely to be closely watched in nearby communities as mobile infrastructure plans continue to draw local debate.

In York, a former police officer is alleged to have told a girl not to tell anyone after sexually assaulting her. The case centres on serious criminal accusations and is likely to prompt questions about trust, power and safeguarding.

On Davygate in York city centre, one shop is set to close its current premises and move elsewhere. It is another visible change for one of York’s best-known shopping streets, with implications for footfall and the look of the high street.

In York, gas works that have torn up grass verges are drawing criticism from people worried the damage will not be properly repaired. The row highlights a familiar local tension between utility works and the condition of neighbourhood streets.

At Woldgate School in Pocklington, York-born MP Sir David Davis dropped in to speak with pupils. The visit brought a high-profile political figure into a local school setting and gave students a direct encounter with public life.

In York, changes to the way council tax debts are pursued have been welcomed after the previous system was branded grotesque by an expert. The issue matters for households facing arrears, with reforms aimed at making enforcement less punitive.

In York, a new ghost-themed shop has opened, adding another distinctive business to the city’s retail mix. The launch taps into York’s long-running reputation for the macabre and could prove a draw for both residents and visitors.

In York, a new portrait celebrating Purpleman has been unveiled, shining a light on one of the city’s most recognisable characters. The artwork adds a fresh cultural talking point tied to a familiar local figure.

In York, one person needed oxygen treatment after a house fire, with emergency services called to the scene. The incident is a reminder of the speed with which domestic fires can become dangerous.

At Bettys in York, a rediscovered Nazi-era map appears to show the famous tea room among wartime targets. The find opens an unexpected window into how the city may have featured in enemy planning during the 1940s.

In Clifton Moor, York, Suzanne Wright has set up a counselling business after a cancer diagnosis led her to rethink her career. Her story links personal upheaval with a new local service now being built in the area.

At Scarborough Spa, a sci-fi festival drew Star Wars fans and costumed visitors including Darth Vader lookalikes. The event turned the seafront venue into a busy weekend attraction and underlined the pull of niche conventions in North Yorkshire.

In Yorkshire, a builder known for exposing dodgy tradesmen has set out practical signs homeowners should watch for before hiring workmen. With repair and renovation costs still high, the advice lands at a time when many households are vulnerable to being caught out.

A council worker and police officer suffered injuries to their arms and buttocks, police say.

In Rochdale, York City were denied promotion by a stoppage-time goal in a crushing late twist. It is a major blow for supporters after a match that looked set to send the club up.

In York, a historic club that closed only weeks ago could now be saved. The turnaround would be a significant boost for the city’s nightlife and cultural scene if a rescue plan goes through.

A York school is finally back where it belongs, with St Paul’s Nursery School celebrating its return home after two and a half years of rebuilding and improvements. It’s a lovely moment for pupils, staff and families alike — and a real boost for the whole community to see the school reopen its doors in refreshed surroundings.

Clifton saw bomb disposal teams called in after police were alerted to a suspicious package, leading to a cordon and disruption in the area. Officers later said the item had been made safe and the scene was stood down by late afternoon.

Bulwell town centre is at the centre of a police appeal after a 14-year-old was threatened with a knife and robbed in an alleyway. Detectives have now issued an image of someone they want to trace as inquiries continue.

Nottingham city centre is preparing to unveil its new Rainbow Quarter, with organisers promising street parties and a wider celebration of LGBTQ+ culture. The project is also linked to a possible visit from Sir Ian McKellen, adding to the buzz around the launch.

Nottinghamshire is set for a mostly dry Sunday with early sunshine and patchy cloud building later in the day. Temperatures should stay on the cool side, with calmer conditions into the evening.

Nottingham was hit by a major police response after a suspicious package led to a park being closed for several hours. Bomb disposal officers were brought in before the item was declared safe and restrictions were lifted.

Nottinghamshire is being lined up for a £60 million investment as a Japanese company considers the county for its new UK headquarters. The proposal is said to support regeneration and create more than 100 jobs if it goes ahead.

Nottinghamshire schools could face disruption after teachers moved towards strike action over what unions describe as severe job cuts at an academy. The trust says it is in talks to avoid walkouts and has apologised for the upset caused.

The East Midlands is set to receive almost £3 million to improve museums, libraries and arts venues across the region. Backers say the money should widen access to culture and help local institutions upgrade their offer.

Newark MP Robert Jenrick has renewed pressure for more North Sea oil and gas drilling, arguing existing licences should be approved. The intervention adds another East Midlands voice to the national argument over energy security and climate policy.

A lovely slice of Nottingham history is coming back to life, with the Long Stairs in the Lace Market set to officially reopen after 93 years. Even better, the restored medieval steps will become a welcoming social space for local bands, fundraising events and poetry nights — a brilliant new home for community spirit and creativity.

Clifton saw a police cordon and bomb disposal response on Saturday after officers were called to a suspicious package. The item was later made safe and the cordon stood down, but the incident caused hours of disruption in the south Nottingham suburb.

Nottinghamshire is set for a dry and fairly bright Sunday, with plenty of early sunshine before patchy cloud builds later in the day. Conditions should stay settled into the evening, though it will feel cooler after dark.

The East Midlands is set to receive nearly £3 million for cultural venues, with money earmarked for improvements to museums, libraries and arts spaces across the region. The funding is intended to widen access and support upgrades that could be felt in Nottinghamshire and neighbouring areas.

Nottinghamshire rail passengers faced major disruption after services were severely affected and some customers were stuck on a train for more than eight hours. The incident caused knock-on delays across the network and raised fresh questions about resilience on local routes.

Derby police are asking for witnesses and dashcam footage after an 11-year-old boy died following a collision on Nottingham Road. The crash involved a bus, a car and a cyclist on Friday evening, and investigators are now piecing together exactly what happened.

Bulwell town centre is the focus of a police appeal after a 14-year-old was targeted in a knifepoint robbery in an alleyway. Detectives have released an image of a youth they want to speak to as inquiries continue.

Nottinghamshire could land a new UK headquarters from a Japanese firm planning to invest £60 million in the county. The proposal is being pitched as a regeneration boost and could create more than 100 jobs if it goes ahead.

The road has been closed by police

The crash involved a bus, a car and the 11-year-old boy on his bicycle

A former family pet has begun an inspiring new chapter as Nottinghamshire Police’s newest four-legged recruit. After 13 weeks of intensive training, PD Riddick is now ready for duty — a lovely story of second chances, talent and a local dog finding a brilliant new purpose.

In Strabane, detectives have charged a 34-year-old man over an incident at Strabane Magistrates’ Court on 16 April. The case is due before the courts following the alleged courthouse attack.

At Altnagelvin Hospital in Derry, consultant anaesthetist Dr Mukesh Chugh has been named a finalist in the Blue Light NI Awards. The nomination recognises his contribution to diversity as well as his role in frontline healthcare.

In Carndonagh, a young farmer was left stunned when one of his ewes gave birth to four lambs last week. It is an unusually rare delivery and has quickly become a talking point across Inishowen.

Across Northern Ireland, the Executive is set to receive £17m from the Treasury to help low-income households that rely on home heating oil. The funding comes as many families continue to face high fuel costs after months of price pressure.

At Strabane Magistrates' Court, a man has denied throwing boiling water over another man during an incident on Thursday morning. The case centres on a serious alleged attack inside the courthouse and will now proceed through the courts.

In Northern Ireland, a new LucidTalk poll is being read as an early sign of where parties stand ahead of next year’s Assembly and council elections. The findings point to how the political picture may be shifting before campaigning properly begins.

In Clogher Valley, a councillor has described his shock after the remains of sheep, calves and a cow were found dumped in a rural field. The grim discovery has raised questions about illegal disposal and possible risks to the surrounding area.

In Coleraine, Olympic gold medallist Hannah Scott has been awarded the Freedom of the Borough at a special civic ceremony. She used the occasion to reflect on what home means to her and the support she has received locally.

The inquest into the death of the Belfast schoolboy resumed this week following the Easter break

A brilliant day for local sport saw Derry cruise into the Ulster Championship semi-finals with an emphatic win over Antrim. It’s the sort of result that lifts the mood across the county and gives supporters plenty to smile about as the team’s championship journey continues.

York is welcoming changes to the way council tax arrears are chased after long-running criticism of the current system. The move follows pressure for fairer collection methods and could alter how quickly households are pushed into deeper debt.

North Yorkshire is being urged to look beyond concrete barriers as natural flood management gains support as part of the region’s defences. The approach would not replace traditional schemes, but backers say it could help slow water flow and reduce pressure on places at risk of flooding.

The East Coast Main Line saw lengthy delays again, affecting journeys through York and across North Yorkshire. Rail passengers faced more disruption on one of the region’s key routes, with knock-on effects likely for weekend travel plans.

Scarborough Spa hosted a sci-fi convention as Darth Vader and other Star Wars characters drew crowds to the seaside venue. The event brought a burst of cosplay and family entertainment to the North Yorkshire coast over the weekend.

North Yorkshire planners have approved a new multi-use sports pitch for a school despite objections from nearby residents. Supporters say it will improve facilities for pupils, while neighbours had raised concerns about extra noise and disturbance.

Westminster is braced for another difficult week for Sir Keir Starmer after questions emerged over when ministers were told about concerns linked to Peter Mandelson’s vetting. David Lammy is said to be worried that key information did not reach ministers sooner, and the prime minister is due to address MPs on Monday.

London will host a government summit on Monday focused on keeping children safe online as artificial intelligence becomes more embedded in daily life. Ministers are expected to examine how AI changes the risks children face, with pressure growing for clearer rules and stronger protections.

Kensington Gardens in London has reopened after police examined several suspicious items found near the Israeli embassy and ruled them non-hazardous. The incident prompted a significant security response and followed claims by a group that it had targeted the area with dangerous substances.

London and Manchester were at the centre of a significant Premier League result as Manchester United beat Chelsea to strengthen their Champions League push. The outcome leaves Chelsea under heavier pressure and shifts the balance in the fight for European places.

Palestinian Prisoners’ Day is marked every year on 17 April. It began in 1974, after the Palestinian National Council chose the date to honour the first Palestinian prisoner exchange, linked to Mahmoud Bakr Hijazi’s release in 1971. Hijazi was the first Palestinian to be captured by Israeli occupati

A York school is finally back where it belongs, with St Paul’s Nursery School returning home after two and a half years of rebuilding and improvements. It’s a lovely moment for pupils, staff and families alike, marking a fresh start in a much-improved space after a long wait.

Across Nottinghamshire on Sunday 19 April, the forecast is for a dry and fairly bright day with plenty of early sunshine. Patchy cloud is expected to build later on before a cooler, settled evening.

In Nottinghamshire, a Japanese company is considering a £60m investment to build its new UK headquarters. The project is being pitched as a boost for regeneration and could create more than 100 jobs in the county.

In Clifton, Nottinghamshire Police closed off an area after reports of a suspicious package, with an explosive ordnance disposal team called in as a precaution. The item was later made safe and the cordon was lifted.

Fuel prices have continued to rise across Nottingham, with the cheapest petrol now starting from 150.9p per litre and diesel from around 184.9p. Last updated 4 pm 18 April – The latest petrol and diesel prices from stations across Nottingham and nearby areas including West Bridgford, Beeston, Gamsto

The road has been closed by police

Westminster is braced for another difficult week for Sir Keir Starmer after ministers said concerns over Peter Mandelson’s vetting should have reached the top of government earlier. The row is set to return to Parliament on Monday, with opposition parties demanding answers and some calling for the prime minister to go.

London will host a government summit on Monday focused on keeping children safe online as artificial intelligence becomes more embedded in everyday life. Ministers are expected to look at risks around harmful content, manipulation and how schools, parents and tech firms should respond.

Kensington Gardens in London has reopened after police investigated several suspicious items found close to the Israeli embassy. Officers later said the materials were non-hazardous, ending a security scare that had briefly shut part of the park.

London and Manchester were the backdrop to a major Premier League shift as Manchester United beat Chelsea to strengthen their push for Champions League football. The result leaves Chelsea under fresh pressure and adds another twist to the battle for the top places.

Palestinian Prisoners’ Day is marked every year on 17 April. It began in 1974, after the Palestinian National Council chose the date to honour the first Palestinian prisoner exchange, linked to Mahmoud Bakr Hijazi’s release in 1971. Hijazi was the first Palestinian to be captured by Israeli occupati

A once-forgotten set of medieval steps has been lovingly restored after lying unused for around a century, thanks to the hard work of local volunteers. It’s a lovely example of community spirit bringing a piece of local history back to life — and giving people something special to celebrate and enjoy once again.

In Surrey, two community centres are set to be transferred to a charity for a peppercorn fee as part of plans to create a new 'centre of excellence'. The move has raised concerns about public assets leaving council control, with questions over how the buildings will be protected in future.

Across London and the wider South East, London Underground strikes are due to go ahead next week, with some Stagecoach-run bus routes also affected by separate industrial action. For commuters travelling in from Surrey, that could mean longer journeys, busier rail services and last-minute changes to usual routes.

Near a Surrey village, a motorcyclist in his 50s died at the scene after a late-night crash on Friday, according to Surrey Police. Officers are expected to continue inquiries into how the collision happened.

In Hurst Park, Elmbridge, the £1.3 million refurbishment of Hurst Pool has been pushed back for a second time. Elmbridge Borough Council says it is still finalising a start date, extending uncertainty over when work will finally begin on the popular site.

Across the South East, music fans queued for hours at independent shops to mark Record Store Day. The annual event once again brought a rush of early-morning demand for limited releases and gave local record shops a welcome boost.

Westminster is braced for another difficult week for Sir Keir Starmer after fresh questions over when ministers knew about concerns linked to Peter Mandelson’s vetting. The row is set to return to Parliament on Monday, with the prime minister under renewed pressure to explain who knew what and when.

London will host a government summit on Monday focused on how artificial intelligence is reshaping children’s lives online. Ministers are expected to discuss new risks around harmful content, manipulation and digital safety as pressure grows for clearer rules for tech firms and schools.

Kensington Gardens in London has reopened after police investigated suspicious items found close to the Israeli embassy. Officers later said the materials were not hazardous, ending a high-profile security incident in one of the capital’s busiest park areas.

London and Manchester clubs remain under pressure after Manchester United beat Chelsea in a result that could matter at both ends of the race for Europe. United strengthened their Champions League hopes, while Chelsea were left facing more scrutiny over form and direction.

Palestinian Prisoners’ Day is marked every year on 17 April. It began in 1974, after the Palestinian National Council chose the date to honour the first Palestinian prisoner exchange, linked to Mahmoud Bakr Hijazi’s release in 1971. Hijazi was the first Palestinian to be captured by Israeli occupati

A heartening story this morning: Royal Navy veteran Alan Thornewill is taking on an extraordinary 126-mile paddle to raise money for the RNLI and Combat Stress. It’s a brilliant show of determination and kindness, with one former serviceman going the distance to support others who need a helping hand.

Margate’s Winter Gardens could move a step closer to reopening, with works on the long-shut venue expected to begin this summer. The famous hall, which has hosted everyone from The Beatles to Oasis, remains a major cultural project for Thanet.

Canterbury city centre is set to see a former charity shop building go under the hammer after the store closed earlier this year. The sale could decide what happens next for a prominent retail unit in the city centre.

In Kent, a DIY renovation took an unexpected turn when a homeowner ripped up an old hallway carpet and found an original feature hidden underneath. The discovery taps into growing interest in restoring period details rather than covering them up.

Tunbridge Wells has seen its heritage railway return to full service after a bridge installation project. The reopening restores a popular attraction and brings back regular journeys for visitors this weekend.

Across Kent’s coast, seaside arcades are facing rising pressure from costs, changing habits and competition for visitors. The warning raises fresh questions about the future of a classic part of the county’s coastal culture.

Across the South East, music fans queued for hours on Record Store Day to snap up limited releases from independent shops. The annual event gave a timely boost to local retailers and highlighted the continued pull of vinyl culture.

Westminster is braced for more fallout after fresh concern that ministers were not told sooner about issues linked to Peter Mandelson’s vetting. Sir Keir Starmer is expected to face MPs on Monday as pressure on Downing Street intensifies.

London will host a government summit on Monday looking at how to keep children safe online in the age of artificial intelligence. The meeting signals growing concern over how fast-moving tech is reshaping risks for families and schools.

Kensington Gardens in London has reopened after police examined suspicious items found near the Israeli embassy and decided they were not hazardous. The closure caused disruption in a busy part of the capital while officers carried out checks.

Tottenham Hotspur Stadium saw Spurs suffer another painful setback as Brighton snatched a result that deepens concern over the club’s season. The match piles more pressure on Tottenham with time running short to turn things around.

Palestinian Prisoners’ Day is marked every year on 17 April. It began in 1974, after the Palestinian National Council chose the date to honour the first Palestinian prisoner exchange, linked to Mahmoud Bakr Hijazi’s release in 1971. Hijazi was the first Palestinian to be captured by Israeli occupati

A hidden gem café in Kent is serving up more than just lovely cake and a cosy atmosphere — every cuppa bought helps support a good cause. It’s the sort of heartwarming local spot that shows how small everyday treats can make a real difference in the community.

Across the Cotswolds, a new report says the region is shifting from classic second-home country to a more design-led, high-end market with a globally connected social scene. The story matters for housing and the local economy alike, and its international angle lies in how the area is increasingly being shaped by overseas wealth, profile and demand.

In Oxford, a fresh weekend guide rounds up events and places to visit from 17 to 19 April as the city settles into spring. It offers a quick read on what is happening across the city’s streets and open spaces if you are planning a trip in from West Oxfordshire.

Westminster is braced for fresh pressure on Sir Keir Starmer after the foreign secretary said ministers were not told sooner about concerns over Peter Mandelson’s vetting. The row is now heading back to Parliament on Monday, with opposition parties pushing the issue into a wider question about trust and accountability at the top of government.

London will host a government summit on Monday focused on keeping children safe online as artificial intelligence becomes more embedded in everyday life. The meeting is expected to look at harms facing young users and what ministers, tech firms and regulators should do next.

Kensington Gardens in London reopened after police investigated suspicious items found close to the Israeli embassy and later deemed them non-hazardous. The incident caused a high-profile security response and will raise fresh concerns about protests, public safety and security around diplomatic sites.

London and Manchester were at the centre of a result that reshaped the Premier League run-in, with Manchester United boosting their Champions League hopes and leaving Chelsea under heavier pressure. For fans, it sharpens the battle for European places and intensifies questions around Chelsea’s direction.

Streamers who generate millions of views on Youtube, while posing as 'citizen journalists', have a record of abusive behaviour towards women and sexual offences, a Byline Times investigation reveals

A lovely community effort in Launton has raised more than £3,000 for The Hummingbird Centre, helping support people affected by cancer. The table tennis marathon is a brilliant example of local people coming together, having fun and making a real difference for a good cause.

On Lower Parliament Street in Nottingham city centre, police arrested two teenagers after three knives were reportedly left on shelves inside the newly opened Boyes store. The suspects, aged 17 and 18, were detained at the scene as officers investigated how the weapons ended up in the shop.

On St Bartholomews Road in St Ann's, police taped off part of the street following what they described as a serious assault. The cordon blocked access at the lower end of the road while officers carried out inquiries.

Across Nottinghamshire, rail passengers faced major disruption after an incident left some people stuck on a train for more than eight hours. Services were badly affected through the day, causing delays and frustration for travellers across the county.

In Bulwell town centre, detectives have released an image after a 14-year-old boy was robbed at knifepoint in an alleyway. Police are trying to identify a youth they want to speak to as inquiries continue into the attack.

In Nottinghamshire, a Japanese firm is considering a £60 million project that could create more than 100 jobs through a new UK headquarters. The company says the investment would support regeneration and give the local economy a significant lift.

The road has been closed by police

The crash involved a bus, a car and the 11-year-old boy on his bicycle

Rob was born with an atrial septal defect in his heart and had his first open heart surgery when he was just 18 months old

A lovely slice of Nottingham history is being brought back to life, with the city’s restored medieval steps set for an official opening after lying unused for around a century. Better still, the revival has been powered by volunteers, turning a once-neglected spot into something the community can enjoy again.

In Norfolk, Ian Smith says a throwaway challenge from his wife pushed him to start posting on TikTok in his eighties. He has since built an audience far beyond the county, turning a local personality into an unlikely social media success.

In Suffolk and across East Anglia, some travellers say rising costs and international uncertainty are changing summer holiday plans. One man told the BBC he cancelled a trip to Spain and is now opting to stay nearer home.

In Colchester, supporters say the idea of John Terry becoming involved with Colchester United has triggered both excitement and unease. Fans told the BBC they see potential in the move, but also plenty of reasons to be cautious.

In Norfolk, Chris Tuczemskyi says his partner saved their daughter Autumn’s life before losing her own. The family’s account sets out the final moments of what he describes as a heroic act.

In Suffolk, filmmaker Max Morgan says the county’s landscape was central to the look and feel of his debut feature, Breakwater. The project puts a familiar East Anglian setting at the centre of a new home-grown production.

Westminster is braced for another difficult week for Sir Keir Starmer after new claims that ministers were not told sooner about security vetting concerns linked to Peter Mandelson. The row is expected to return to Parliament on Monday, keeping pressure on Downing Street over what was known and when.

London will host a government summit on Monday focused on keeping children safe online as AI tools become more widespread. Ministers are expected to discuss how tech firms and regulators should respond to growing concerns about what children can see, generate and share online.

Kensington Gardens in London has reopened after police examined suspicious items found close to the Israeli embassy and decided they were not hazardous. The incident briefly shut part of a major public space and prompted a security response in one of the capital’s busiest areas.

London and Manchester were left with very different moods after Manchester United beat Chelsea to strengthen their push for Champions League football. The result adds more pressure on Chelsea, with the race for European places tightening late in the Premier League season.

Palestinian Prisoners’ Day is marked every year on 17 April. It began in 1974, after the Palestinian National Council chose the date to honour the first Palestinian prisoner exchange, linked to Mahmoud Bakr Hijazi’s release in 1971. Hijazi was the first Palestinian to be captured by Israeli occupati

A Norwich man is putting a smile on faces by bringing fresh imagination to the world of model railways. Laurie Calvert’s weird and wonderful creations are turning heads at conventions and earning recognition too – a lovely reminder that local creativity and passion can take people a long way.

In Peterborough, hundreds of people came together on Saturday evening for a memorial to Baye Bireme Fall. The gathering was a significant public show of grief and solidarity, with residents paying tribute in the city.

At Peterborough Museum and Art Gallery, a new exhibition is celebrating 90 years of the city’s Lido. The display looks back at the open-air pool’s history and its place in Peterborough life, making it a timely stop for local history and culture fans.

Across Cambridgeshire and the wider East, the fire service says it needs more people to join local stations to keep emergency cover at the right level. The appeal points to ongoing staffing pressures that could affect response capacity in nearby communities.

In the East of England, the Green leader at county level has criticised large solar farm proposals and argued more panels should be placed on rooftops instead. The dispute feeds into a wider local debate about land use, energy policy and who should benefit from renewable projects.

One man says he cancelled his holiday to Spain due to the rising costs and uncertainty.

Westminster is braced for another difficult week for Sir Keir Starmer after David Lammy said ministers were not told sooner about concerns over Peter Mandelson’s vetting. The prime minister is now facing renewed calls to explain what happened when he addresses MPs on Monday.

London will host a government summit on Monday focused on keeping children safe online as artificial intelligence becomes more embedded in daily life. Ministers are expected to discuss how tech, education and child protection rules need to adapt as concerns grow over what young people see and share online.

Kensington Gardens in London has reopened after police examined suspicious items found close to the Israeli embassy and declared them non-hazardous. The incident prompted a temporary closure and raised security concerns in one of the capital’s busiest park areas.

Across England, the NHS is urging pregnant women and those trying for a baby to take folic acid to help reduce the risk of serious birth defects. The reminder is aimed at women before conception as well as during early pregnancy, when the vitamin can make the biggest difference.

Palestinian Prisoners’ Day is marked every year on 17 April. It began in 1974, after the Palestinian National Council chose the date to honour the first Palestinian prisoner exchange, linked to Mahmoud Bakr Hijazi’s release in 1971. Hijazi was the first Palestinian to be captured by Israeli occupati

A lovely dose of late-life inspiration: 81-year-old Ian Smith has become an unlikely TikTok hit after taking on a playful challenge from his wife. What started as a bit of banter has turned into global attention, proving it’s never too late to try something new and bring a smile to people around the world.

Across Nottinghamshire, Sunday 19 April is set to be dry and fairly sunny for much of the day, with patchy cloud building later on. Early conditions should be clear and calm, but temperatures are expected to drop into a cooler, settled evening.

Across Nottinghamshire, rail passengers faced major disruption after an incident brought services to a standstill. Some travellers were reportedly stranded on a train for more than eight hours, with knock-on delays affecting journeys across the network.

Across the East Midlands, almost £3 million is being invested in museums, libraries and arts venues to improve access to culture. The funding is aimed at upgrading community spaces and could support projects used by residents across Nottinghamshire and the wider region.

In Bulwell town centre, Nottinghamshire Police have issued an image as they investigate a knifepoint robbery involving a 14-year-old boy. Detectives say the teenager was targeted in an alleyway and are asking anyone who recognises the person pictured to come forward.

In Clifton, police and explosive ordnance disposal officers were called after a suspicious package sparked a cordon and temporary closure. The item was later made safe, with officers standing down the scene after several hours of disruption.

In Nottinghamshire, a Japanese company is considering a £60 million investment to build its new UK headquarters. The proposal is said to promise more than 100 jobs and has been pitched as a significant boost to regeneration in the area.

In Nottinghamshire, campaigners are calling for duck-crossing signs after firefighters were sent to rescue a duckling trapped in a drain beside a busy road. The incident has reignited concerns about wildlife safety at a crossing point used by ducks and their young.

The road has been closed by police

Sherwood has something lovely to celebrate, with its newly refurbished library now officially reopened for residents to enjoy. It’s a real boost for the community — a welcoming local space given a fresh new chapter, ready to bring people together through books, activities and everyday connection.

Nottinghamshire is set for a dry, fairly bright Sunday with plenty of early sunshine before patchy cloud builds later in the day. For Radcliffe on Trent and nearby villages, it looks like a settled day overall with a cool start and a calm evening.

Across the East Midlands, almost £3 million is being invested in museums, libraries and arts venues as part of a wider cultural funding package. The cash is aimed at improving access and facilities, with projects across the region now in line for upgrades.

In Nottinghamshire, a Japanese company is considering a £60 million investment to create its new UK headquarters. The project is being pitched as a regeneration boost and could deliver more than 100 jobs if it goes ahead.

In Nottinghamshire, a duckling had to be rescued by firefighters after becoming trapped in a roadside drain while crossing a busy road. The incident has prompted calls for duck-crossing signs to protect wildlife at the spot.

The road has been closed by police

The crash involved a bus, a car and the 11-year-old boy on his bicycle

Rob was born with an atrial septal defect in his heart and had his first open heart surgery when he was just 18 months old

Sherwood has something to celebrate, with its newly refurbished library now officially reopened for residents to enjoy. It’s a lovely boost for the community, bringing refreshed spaces and a renewed hub for reading, learning and local life.

In the Bronx, former President Barack Obama appeared publicly with Mayor Zohran Mamdani at an early childhood education center, giving a high-profile boost to the mayor’s affordability agenda. The visit puts child care and family costs back in the spotlight as New York City politics continue to sharpen around kitchen-table issues.

In New York City, Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s backing of Lindsey Boylan for a City Council seat is drawing pushback from LGBTQ+ leaders tied to a district long represented by gay lawmakers. The dispute adds another fault line to an already tense political map, with questions about representation and party alliances likely to keep building.

At Madison Square Garden and bars around New York City, the Knicks’ playoff opener turned into a citywide watch party even for fans priced out of the arena. The story captures how deep the postseason buzz is running, and how game nights are reshaping crowds and spending well beyond Midtown.

Wisconsin animal rights activists were fired with tear gas and pepper spray after trying to gain entry into a beagle breeding and research facility on Saturday.

Washington, D.C., moved deeper into crisis mode Saturday as President Trump convened a White House Situation Room meeting over renewed tensions in the Strait of Hormuz. The talks come as the U.S. and Iran clash over control of a shipping lane critical to global oil and gas, with possible consequences for energy prices and travel costs.

Washington, D.C., saw a major federal policy shift Friday as President Trump signed an executive order easing restrictions on psychedelic drugs for research. The move is aimed at accelerating studies of treatments for severe depression and PTSD, potentially changing how quickly therapies like psilocybin and ibogaine reach patients.

Across the U.S., a new Politico poll found that half of Americans say Trump’s mass deportation campaign is too aggressive. The findings also show softness within his own coalition, with a notable share of 2024 Trump voters uneasy about the scope of the crackdown.

New York City is the site of encouraging new results for an experimental pancreatic cancer treatment involving a personalized mRNA vaccine at Memorial Sloan Kettering. Early data suggest the approach could mark a meaningful step forward against one of the deadliest cancers, with researchers and patients watching closely.

The former lieutenant governor’s obsession with his damaged reputation led to a long slide and his estrangement from his family, according to court records and those who knew him. He killed wife Cerina Wanzer Fairfax and himself.

A bright spot from the Hudson Valley: Orange County welcomed 95 students from a dozen local school districts for its annual Youth in Government Day, giving young people a hands-on look at public service. It’s the kind of community investment that feels especially hopeful — encouraging the next generation to learn how local government works and imagine how they can make a difference.

In South Yorkshire, the driver responsible for the death of police communications officer Ellie Smart has been jailed for nine years. The case will resonate across Yorkshire as it brings a high-profile road death prosecution to a close.

In Scarborough, Star Wars characters and fans gathered at Scarborough Spa for a sci-fi convention on Saturday. The event turned the seaside venue into a major draw for cosplay, film fans and family visitors.

In South Yorkshire, a man has been arrested and dogs seized after two attacks that left a council worker and a police officer hurt. Police said both victims suffered injuries to their arms and buttocks.

In Yorkshire, former Yorkshire Evening Post journalist Ken Yeadon has died at the age of 91. He spent many years in regional journalism and was a familiar name to readers across the county.

Across Yorkshire, a builder who helps expose dodgy tradesmen has set out practical ways homeowners can protect themselves. The advice focuses on spotting red flags early before repair or renovation work turns costly.

In Yorkshire, conservation campaigner Matt Trevelyan is tackling the Three Peaks challenge in costume to raise money for curlew protection. He is aiming to bring in £10,000 for efforts to safeguard one of the region’s best-known birds.

In Barnsley, frustration over politics and low trust in change is in focus after turnout fell to just 17% in parts of the borough at the 2024 local elections. The story explores why some residents feel voting no longer makes a difference.

In South Yorkshire, Laura Stenton-Slater is attempting a world-record run in wellington boots to support a charity for rare gene and chromosome disorders. The challenge blends fundraising with a distinctly British endurance stunt.

In Westminster, pressure is mounting on Sir Keir Starmer after concerns emerged over how quickly ministers were told about Peter Mandelson’s vetting issues. The row is set to return to Parliament on Monday, keeping the government on the defensive.

In London, the government is hosting a summit on Monday focused on keeping children safe online in the age of artificial intelligence. The meeting signals growing concern over how fast AI tools are changing what children see and do online.

In London, Manchester United boosted their push for Champions League football with a win over Chelsea that leaves the home side under more pressure. The result could shape the race for Europe and intensify scrutiny on Chelsea’s direction.

In global energy markets, oil prices dropped steeply after Iran said the Strait of Hormuz would remain open to commercial shipping during the ceasefire. Any sustained fall in crude could feed through to fuel and wider cost pressures in the UK.

In London, Kensington Gardens has reopened after police investigated suspicious items found near the Israeli embassy and concluded they were non-hazardous. The incident triggered a major response before the park was declared safe again.

In the Strait of Hormuz, Iran says the vital shipping route has been closed again after vessels were attacked and tensions with the US escalated. The move threatens global energy supplies and raises the risk of further military confrontation.

In Kyiv, at least six people were killed after a gunman opened fire and took hostages inside a supermarket. Police ended the siege after negotiations failed, adding fresh shock to a city already living with wartime strain.

In Australia, emissions from coalmines are increasing despite a major government policy designed to reduce climate pollution. The findings raise questions about whether carbon offsets are allowing heavy industry to avoid meaningful cuts.

In the Vatican, the Pope has said comments about ‘tyrants’ were not directed at Donald Trump after the remarks sparked a political spat. The clarification comes as tensions between religious and political figures draw wider attention.

In Oregon, the mystery of a family who vanished in 1958 has finally been solved after an amateur diver found their wrecked car. The discovery closes a case that had remained unresolved for nearly seven decades.

A stunning new portrait of York favourite Purpleman has been unveiled, celebrating one of the city’s most recognisable and much-loved characters. It’s a lovely reminder of how local people and artists can come together to honour the personalities who bring colour, warmth and a real sense of community spirit to York.

Watford Road near Hunton Bridge in Kings Langley was closed off after a motorcyclist died following a crash involving a car in the early hours. Police say the rider was taken to hospital with serious injuries but later died, and the incident is likely to raise questions for regular drivers on that route.

Leavesden is at the centre of a fresh planning application from Warner Bros Studios to expand its on-site school buildings. The proposal has been validated by Three Rivers District Council and will be watched closely given the site's continued growth and local traffic impact.

Watford Palace Theatre has secured close to £1 million from a government and Arts Council funding pot for capital improvements. The cash is expected to support upgrades to the theatre building and could shape what audiences and community groups see there in the coming years.

Watford Borough Council is considering a retrospective planning bid linked to a home already being used as an Airbnb. The case appears in this week's planning list alongside extensions and other household schemes, highlighting ongoing pressure around short-term lets and housing use.

Across Hertfordshire, environmental health inspectors have released a fresh batch of food hygiene ratings after recent visits to local businesses. The latest scores offer a useful snapshot of standards at venues around the county and are likely to be checked by anyone planning where to eat.

Hertsmere has opened consultation on a proposal to register a piece of land as a village green, according to the latest planning submissions. Such applications can sharply limit future development, so nearby residents and landowners are likely to take a close look.

Kings Langley is the focus of a police investigation after a motorcyclist in his 40s died following an early-morning crash. The collision happened on Watford Road near Hunton Bridge, with officers appealing for information as they work out what happened.

The A41 near Aylesbury saw a suspected cocaine dealer arrested after police stopped and searched a silver Ford Focus. The case will interest drivers using the route through Bucks and Herts, as it highlights continued enforcement on one of the area's key roads.

In the East of England, 81-year-old Ian Smith has built an unexpected following on TikTok after being dared he would never reach 100 followers. What began as a light-hearted challenge has turned into a global audience, showing how far a local personality can now travel online.

One man says he cancelled his holiday to Spain due to the rising costs and uncertainty.

A lovely burst of local joy, Watford Observer Camera Club members have been sharing their photographs celebrating springtime in all its colour and freshness. It’s a cheerful reminder of the talent in our community — and of the simple pleasure to be found in longer days, blossoms and a new seasonal start.

Nottinghamshire is set for a dry, fairly bright Sunday with plenty of sunshine early on before patchy cloud builds later in the day. Conditions around Radcliffe on Trent and Rushcliffe should stay settled, with a noticeably cooler feel by the evening.

The East Midlands is due to receive almost £3 million for museums, libraries and arts venues, with the funding aimed at widening access to culture across the region. The package has been welcomed by the Mayor and could support projects used by communities across Nottinghamshire.

Clifton saw a police cordon and bomb disposal response after reports of a suspicious package on Saturday. Nottinghamshire Police later said the item had been made safe and the scene was stood down.

The bottom of St Bartholomews Road was taped off

Bulwell town centre is at the centre of a police appeal after a 14-year-old boy was reportedly robbed at knifepoint in an alleyway. Detectives have released an image of a youth they want to identify as inquiries continue.

Nottinghamshire could see strike action at an academy where staff are protesting over planned job losses. The trust says it is talking with the union to try to avoid disruption, but the dispute has already raised concern for pupils and parents.

Nottinghamshire firefighters were called out after a duckling became trapped in a drain while trying to cross a busy road. The rescue has prompted renewed calls for warning signs to help protect ducks at the crossing point.

The road has been closed by police

The crash involved a bus, a car and the 11-year-old boy on his bicycle

Rob was born with an atrial septal defect in his heart and had his first open heart surgery when he was just 18 months old

Sherwood Library’s reopening is a lovely boost for the local community, giving residents a bright, refreshed space to read, learn and come together. It’s the sort of investment that feels genuinely heartening — a well-loved public place getting a new lease of life for everyone to enjoy.

At Gallows Corner in Romford, TfL has still not pinned down a firm reopening date despite saying the major junction should be back by the end of April. That leaves drivers in Redbridge and nearby areas facing more uncertainty over disruption on one of the key routes in and out of east London.

In Redbridge, a former children’s home is among the latest planning proposals now lodged with the council, with plans to convert it into a 19-household HMO. The application is part of a new batch of submissions that could affect housing, neighbourhood change and local services across the borough.

Across east London, the latest court round-up includes offenders with links to the area who have been jailed so far this month. The cases range across serious dishonesty and other offences, offering a snapshot of the crimes local police and courts have been dealing with in April.

Westminster is braced for another difficult week for Sir Keir Starmer after the Foreign Secretary raised concerns that ministers were not told sooner about problems with Peter Mandelson’s vetting. The prime minister is now under renewed pressure to explain what was known and when when he faces MPs on Monday.

London will host a government summit on Monday focused on how children can be protected online as artificial intelligence becomes more embedded in everyday life. The event is expected to look at risks around harmful content, digital safeguards and how schools, parents and tech firms should respond.

Kensington Gardens in west London has reopened after police examined suspicious items found near the Israeli embassy and ruled them non-hazardous. Officers were called after a group claimed responsibility for targeting the area with what it described as dangerous substances.

Across England, the NHS is reminding pregnant women and those trying to conceive to take a key vitamin to support a baby’s development. The guidance is a timely nudge for families to check they are following current health advice before and during pregnancy.

Tottenham Hotspur Stadium saw Spurs suffer a damaging result against Brighton that leaves their season looking increasingly fragile. For supporters across London, it adds more pressure at a point when every match is starting to feel decisive.

A London woman is offering a remarkably generous helping hand by raffling off her £370,000 two-bedroom flat for just £5, hoping to give someone a life-changing step onto the property ladder. In a city where buying a home can feel impossibly out of reach, it’s a lovely example of one person trying to make a real difference for the next generation.

Across Nottinghamshire, Sunday is set to stay dry with plenty of early sunshine before patchy cloud builds later in the day. Conditions should remain settled, but temperatures will dip into a cooler evening, so it may feel noticeably fresher if you are out locally.

In Nottinghamshire, a Japanese firm is considering a major £60m investment to create its new UK headquarters. The proposal is being pitched as a boost for regeneration and employment, with more than 100 jobs potentially on the table if it goes ahead.

In Clifton, a police cordon has now been removed after reports of a suspicious package prompted an emergency response. An explosive ordnance disposal team attended as a precaution before the incident was declared safe.

The road has been closed by police

The crash involved a bus, a car and the 11-year-old boy on his bicycle

Rob was born with an atrial septal defect in his heart and had his first open heart surgery when he was just 18 months old

Sherwood Library has reopened after a refurbishment, giving local residents a bright, refreshed community space to enjoy once again. It’s a lovely boost for the area, offering people of all ages an inviting place to read, learn and come together.

In Clifton, bomb disposal teams were called after a suspicious package prompted a police cordon on Saturday. Nottinghamshire Police later said the item had been made safe and the scene was stood down, after disruption in the area for several hours.

In Bulwell town centre, detectives are trying to identify a youth after a 14-year-old was robbed at knifepoint in an alleyway. Police have issued an image as inquiries continue into the attack, which will raise fresh concern about safety for young people in the area.

In Nottingham city centre, organisers behind the new Rainbow Quarter have set out plans for its public launch, including street parties and a hoped-for appearance by Sir Ian McKellen. The project aims to establish a permanent LGBTQ+ district and could become a major new cultural focal point for the city.

Across Nottinghamshire, Sunday is expected to start bright with plenty of sunshine before patchy cloud builds through the afternoon. Conditions should stay dry, with a cooler and settled evening to follow.

In Nottinghamshire, a Japanese firm is considering a £60m investment for its new UK headquarters. The proposal is being pitched as a boost for regeneration and employment, with more than 100 jobs said to be in the pipeline if it goes ahead.

In Nottinghamshire, teachers are preparing for strike action over what unions describe as catastrophic job cuts at an academy. The trust says it is in talks to avoid disruption, but the dispute points to deep tensions over staffing and school finances.

On Nottingham Road in Derby, police are appealing for witnesses and dashcam footage after an 11-year-old boy died following a collision involving a bus, a car and a cyclist. The incident happened on Friday evening and has prompted a major investigation.

Across the East Midlands, museums, libraries and arts venues are due to share almost £3m in fresh investment. Regional leaders say the money should widen access to culture and help revive local institutions under financial pressure.

In Nottinghamshire, campaigners are calling for duck-crossing signs after firefighters rescued a duckling trapped in a drain beside a busy road. The incident has prompted wider concern about wildlife safety near traffic-heavy routes.

Near Pentagon Island in Derby, an 11-year-old boy has died after a collision involving his bicycle, a bus and a car. Derbyshire Police are appealing for witnesses as the community absorbs news of the fatal crash.

In Derby, proposals for solar panels near a hospital are expected to win approval. The scheme is intended to lower running costs for the NHS trust and provide greater resilience in energy supply.

The road has been closed by police

Rob was born with an atrial septal defect in his heart and had his first open heart surgery when he was just 18 months old

The early morning walks are part of events to mark International Dawn Chorus Day on 3 May.

The college says students will learn about the impact of coercive control through Gemma Briggs' photos.

In Westminster, the Foreign Secretary has said ministers should have been told sooner about concerns over Peter Mandelson’s vetting. The controversy is piling new pressure on Sir Keir Starmer ahead of a statement to MPs on Monday.

In London, the government is due to host a summit on Monday looking at how to keep children safe online in the age of artificial intelligence. The meeting signals growing concern about how fast-moving technology is outpacing existing safeguards.

In the UK, historian Anna Keay has been named as the official biographer of Queen Elizabeth II. The appointment means the next major account of the late Queen’s life will be written with access to members of the Royal Family.

At Stamford Bridge in London, Manchester United boosted their Champions League hopes with a result that leaves Chelsea under mounting pressure. The match could have a significant impact on the closing weeks of the Premier League race.

Across England, the NHS is urging women who are pregnant or trying for a baby to take an essential vitamin to support their baby’s development. The advice is a reminder of a straightforward health step that can make a meaningful difference.

In the Gulf, Iran says the Strait of Hormuz has been closed again after attacks on ships and a dispute over a US blockade. The move threatens one of the world’s most important shipping routes and could quickly feed through into global energy markets.

In Oregon, the disappearance of a family who vanished in 1958 appears to have been solved after an amateur diver found their car and remains. The discovery closes one of the region’s longest-running missing persons mysteries nearly seven decades on.

In Madrid, Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado is planning a rally as her movement struggles to regain momentum after events in Caracas. The gathering underlines how the country’s political crisis is increasingly being fought from exile.

At the Vatican, Pope Francis has said comments referring to tyrants were not directed at Donald Trump after they sparked a political row. The clarification follows a fresh public spat involving the pontiff and the former US president.

In Washington DC, Tucker Carlson’s son has reportedly stepped down from Vice-President JD Vance’s press operation. The move comes as Carlson’s growing clash with Donald Trump continues to ripple through US conservative politics.

A lovely slice of Nottingham’s history is coming back to life, with the medieval Long Stairs in the Lace Market set to officially reopen after 93 years. Even better, the restored space is set to become a welcoming spot for local bands, poetry nights and fundraising events — a brilliant new home for community creativity.

Everthorpe Hall near Brough is being put up for auction after a long history that includes use as a prison officers’ clubhouse. The sale puts a substantial East Yorkshire property back in the spotlight and could spark interest in what happens to the Victorian building next.

In East Yorkshire, Gary Cushnie has secured five-figure compensation from TUI after being hospitalised with Legionnaires’ disease following a holiday to Cuba. He says the illness left him so exhausted he brought forward his retirement, underlining the long-term impact of the case.

In Hull and East Yorkshire, a banned driver was pursued by police even after a stinger left all four tyres burst and the car running on its rims. The chase ended with the driver reversing into a patrol car before being detained with help from a police dog.

In Hull, a special event at Hull Truck Theatre on 9 May will celebrate the life and work of poet Maurice Rutherford, who died last year aged 103. The show is set to bring together audiences and admirers to mark the legacy of one of the city’s longstanding literary voices.

Across Hull, tickets have gone on sale for this year’s Pint of Science festival, which will see 21 scientists speaking in local venues. The programme turns pubs and bars into pop-up lecture spaces, giving people a chance to hear directly from researchers working on current ideas and discoveries.

Across Yorkshire, a builder who helps expose dodgy tradesmen has set out practical advice on how householders can avoid being caught out. The guidance focuses on spotting warning signs early, at a time when many people are lining up home repairs and renovation work.

A Beverley business is looking ahead with real optimism after securing a seven-figure finance deal to help it grow and ‘build a positive future’. It’s an encouraging boost for the local economy, with fresh investment set to support the firm’s next chapter and create confidence in the area’s business community.

At The Den in Bermondsey, Millwall beat QPR 2-0 to move to the brink of a first Championship play-off place in more than 20 years. The Lions are now nine points clear of seventh place with three games left, making this one of the club’s biggest late-season moments in years.

On Brixton Road in central Brixton, Korean street food brand Bunsik is preparing to open a new outlet. The arrival adds another fast-growing food name to the area and is likely to draw plenty of interest from south London diners once doors open.

Across London, Tube driver strikes are due to go ahead next week after talks between RMT and TfL failed to resolve the dispute. The row raises the prospect of widespread travel disruption for commuters, shoppers and anyone crossing the city over the coming days.

In Hendon, police are investigating an arson attack on a shop as an antisemitic hate crime. The case has now taken on wider significance after officers linked it to recent incidents in north-west London.

In Soho, Berwick Street’s long-standing record shop scene is back in focus for Record Store Day 2026. The guide looks at the area’s musical heritage and what collectors can expect as central London fills with crate-diggers this weekend.

More problems with recruitment and retention at the cash-strapped council as the woman tipped for top job heads for the exit. KEN LEE reports Jenny Rowlands, who was hired in February as the council’s £166,000 per year assistant chief executive, … Continue reading →

A London woman is offering a remarkable helping hand by raffling off her £370,000 two-bedroom flat for just £5, hoping to give someone a life-changing chance to get on the property ladder. In a city where buying a home can feel impossibly out of reach, it’s a generous and hopeful gesture that could make a real difference to the next generation.

Victoria Park in Leamington Spa is at the centre of a murder investigation after a passer-by found a man’s body in the river. Police have now named the victim and released a photograph as inquiries continue into what happened.

Across the West Midlands, councillors say younger residents are facing worsening chances of buying a home as prices and borrowing costs stay high. The warning adds pressure on local authorities to show how new housing plans will work for first-time buyers.

Coventry is among councils being told they must keep up road repair standards or risk losing Government funding. The move raises the stakes for pothole fixes across the region, with future cash tied more closely to performance.

Coventry City supporters across the world have been sharing what promotion meant to them, including deeply personal reactions from fans watching thousands of miles away. It shows how far the club’s return to the top flight is resonating beyond Coventry itself.

Ryton-on-Dunsmore in Warwickshire is reflecting on two decades since the Peugeot plant closure was announced. Former workers say the impact is still felt today, underlining how one decision reshaped jobs, families and the local economy.

Staffordshire has seen a major housing proposal revived after an appeal overturned its earlier refusal. The development includes 160 homes, a care home and a site linked to Foden’s brass band, reopening a debate over growth and local impact.

The reborn Frontera swaps old-school flaws for modern tech, hybrid or electric power and genuine family-friendly appeal

Warwickshire friends and relatives have gathered to celebrate a new mural dedicated to a man remembered for his warmth and larger-than-life presence. The tribute follows his death from cancer earlier this year and has become a focal point for remembrance.

Wetley Rocks in Staffordshire has traffic controls in place after a wall collapse left both the road and footpath unsafe. Investigators are now assessing the damage while barriers remain up and disruption continues for people passing through the area.

A Nuneaton couple are still bringing people together after 30 years of hosting pub quizzes across Warwickshire. Geoff and Val King have asked more than 450,000 questions over the decades, and their remarkable run as the UK’s longest-serving quiz masters is a lovely celebration of community spirit, dedication and good humour.

Teddington Lock is the finish point for a 126-mile charity paddle by Royal Navy veteran Alan Thornewill. He is travelling from Lechlade in Gloucestershire to south-west London to raise funds for the RNLI and Combat Stress, with the challenge aimed at supporting former service personnel.

In the UK, ministers are due to host a 'Childhood in the Age of AI' summit on Monday as pressure grows over how children are exposed to AI tools online. The meeting is expected to focus on online safety, regulation and what responsibilities tech firms should carry as the technology becomes harder to avoid.

Across the UK, the NHS is reminding women who are pregnant or trying for a baby to take a key vitamin to reduce the risk of serious birth defects. The advice is aimed at women before conception as well as in early pregnancy, making it a timely health prompt rather than a niche warning.

In Kensington Gardens, west London, police reopened the park after examining suspicious items found near the Israeli embassy and deciding they were not hazardous. The closure caused concern on Saturday after a group said it had targeted the area with 'dangerous substances', though officers later stood the scene down.

In Westminster, the row over Peter Mandelson’s vetting has intensified, with the foreign secretary reportedly concerned ministers were not told earlier about the issue. Sir Keir Starmer is now expected to address MPs on Monday as opposition pressure grows over what Downing Street knew and when.

Palestinian Prisoners’ Day is marked every year on 17 April. It began in 1974, after the Palestinian National Council chose the date to honour the first Palestinian prisoner exchange, linked to Mahmoud Bakr Hijazi’s release in 1971. Hijazi was the first Palestinian to be captured by Israeli occupati

A London woman is offering a genuinely heartwarming chance for someone to get on the property ladder by raffling off her £370,000 flat for just £5 a ticket. In a city where buying a home can feel out of reach for so many, it’s a generous, hopeful idea that could make a life-changing difference to the lucky winner.

In Clifton, Nottinghamshire Police and bomb disposal officers were called to a suspicious package, prompting a cordon and local disruption on Saturday. The item was later made safe and the cordon lifted, but the incident caused several hours of uncertainty for people in the area.

In Nottinghamshire, a Japanese company is considering a £60 million investment to establish its UK headquarters, with more than 100 jobs expected if it goes ahead. The scheme is being pitched as a major regeneration boost and could become one of the county’s bigger recent business wins.

In Nottinghamshire, teachers are threatening strike action over planned job cuts described by unions as catastrophic. The academy trust says talks are under way to avoid disruption, but the row raises the prospect of further pressure on pupils and parents.

In Nottingham city centre, organisers behind the new Rainbow Quarter have outlined plans including street parties and a formal launch for the LGBTQ+ district. The project is intended to create a more visible cultural hub, with a possible appearance from Sir Ian McKellen adding to the attention.

Across the East Midlands, nearly £3 million is being allocated to museums, libraries and arts venues to improve access to culture. The funding is expected to support upgrades and wider public use across the region, including places used by Nottinghamshire residents.

Across Nottinghamshire, Sunday is expected to stay dry and fairly bright with the best sunshine early in the day. Patchy cloud is likely later on, before temperatures drop into a cooler, settled evening.

In Nottinghamshire, Reform MP Robert Jenrick has called for new North Sea oil and gas licences to be approved, arguing current delays should end. The intervention adds a local political voice to the wider national argument over energy security, costs and climate policy.

In Bulwell town centre, detectives have released an image after a 14-year-old boy was robbed at knifepoint in an alleyway. Officers are appealing for help to identify a youth they want to speak to as inquiries continue.

In Derby, police are appealing for witnesses and dashcam footage after an 11-year-old boy died in a collision on Nottingham Road. The crash involved a bus, a car and a cyclist, and officers are now working to piece together exactly what happened.

A former family pet has started an inspiring new chapter as a fully qualified Nottinghamshire Police dog. After 13 weeks of intensive training, young PD Riddick is now ready to serve the community — a lovely reminder that with the right care and guidance, a fresh start can lead to something brilliant.

In Nottinghamshire, a Japanese firm is considering a £60m investment to build its new UK headquarters. The project is being pitched as a boost for regeneration and could create more than 100 jobs if it goes ahead.

The road has been closed by police

In Clifton, Nottingham, a police cordon was put in place after a suspicious package was reported. An explosive ordnance disposal unit attended as a precaution, and officers later said the item had been made safe and the cordon lifted.

The crash involved a bus, a car and the 11-year-old boy on his bicycle

Rob was born with an atrial septal defect in his heart and had his first open heart surgery when he was just 18 months old

Westminster is braced for another row over Peter Mandelson’s appointment after David Lammy said ministers were not told early enough about security vetting concerns. Sir Keir Starmer is now under renewed pressure ahead of a statement to MPs on Monday, with opponents demanding answers over who knew what and when.

London will host a government summit on Monday examining how children can be protected online as artificial intelligence becomes more widespread. The event is expected to look at harms facing young people on apps and platforms, putting digital safety back near the top of the political agenda.

Kensington Gardens in London reopened after police investigated suspicious items found close to the Israeli embassy and later judged them non-hazardous. The incident still caused a major security response and brief disruption in one of the capital’s busiest public spaces.

London and Manchester clubs saw the top-four battle shift again after Manchester United beat Chelsea, dealing a blow to Chelsea’s hopes and boosting their own run-in. With the season closing in, the result adds fresh pressure around the race for European qualification.

Palestinian Prisoners’ Day is marked every year on 17 April. It began in 1974, after the Palestinian National Council chose the date to honour the first Palestinian prisoner exchange, linked to Mahmoud Bakr Hijazi’s release in 1971. Hijazi was the first Palestinian to be captured by Israeli occupati

A lovely piece of Nottingham history is set to welcome people again, with the city’s medieval Long Stairs officially reopening after 93 years. Better still, the restored space is planned as a lively community spot for local bands, fundraising events and poetry nights — turning a historic landmark into somewhere people can come together and enjoy.

In Brighton, a 38-year-old tourist has been jailed for 13 years for raping a 17-year-old boy in an Airbnb after the teenager became separated from friends on a night out. The case centres on a serious attack in the city and is likely to renew concerns about night-time safety for young people.

At Lewes Prison, four people have been convicted over a plot to throw drugs and mobile phones over the prison wall. The case exposes an organised attempt to get contraband into the jail, with two defendants having already admitted their part.

In Brighton, Radio 4 regular Mitch Benn is bringing a one-night performance to the city during Brighton Fringe in May. The show adds another draw to the festival programme and is set to take place at Laughing Horse @ The Walrus.

In Sussex, police are investigating a fire at a barber shop after two people in the flat above got out without injury. The blaze is being treated seriously, with officers now working to establish how it started.

Across the South East, music fans queued for hours at independent record shops for Record Store Day releases. The annual event once again drew crowds to local high streets, with vinyl collectors turning out early to secure limited editions.

In Sussex, Zoe Ball hosted a daytime rave aimed at over-50s wanting the club feel without the late-night finish. The event points to a growing appetite for more accessible live music and dance events in the region.

In Westminster, the row over Peter Mandelson’s vetting is piling fresh pressure on Sir Keir Starmer ahead of a Commons statement on Monday. The latest development raises new questions over who knew what inside government and when.

In London, ministers are due to host a summit on Monday focused on keeping children safe online in the age of AI. The meeting signals growing concern in government about how fast-moving technology is changing risks for families and schools.

In London, Kensington Gardens has reopened after police examined suspicious items and deemed them non-hazardous. The incident prompted a security response near the Israeli embassy before the park was declared safe again.

In north London, Brighton and Hove Albion came from behind to draw 2-2 with Tottenham after a late goal from Georginio Rutter. The result keeps Albion in the conversation and leaves Spurs in deeper trouble at the wrong end of the table.

Palestinian Prisoners’ Day is marked every year on 17 April. It began in 1974, after the Palestinian National Council chose the date to honour the first Palestinian prisoner exchange, linked to Mahmoud Bakr Hijazi’s release in 1971. Hijazi was the first Palestinian to be captured by Israeli occupati

A Sussex wildlife park has welcomed capybaras for the very first time, with three female arrivals settling into their new home near Hailsham. It’s a lovely little boost for local animal lovers, and a charming new attraction for families hoping to enjoy a wholesome day out.

In Surrey, two community centres are set to be transferred to a charity for a peppercorn rent as part of plans to create a 'centre of excellence'. The move has prompted concern over the loss of public assets and what local communities may lose in the process.

In East Clandon, Cherry Trees is preparing a Jazz in the Vineyard event on 6 June to raise money for children with complex disabilities and their families. The fundraiser offers a local date for the diary while supporting a well-known Surrey charity.

In Bramley, residents have been told work to deal with the village fuel leak is making progress, though concerns have not gone away. The clean-up remains a live issue locally, with people still pressing for reassurance over disruption and longer-term impact.

In London and across Surrey commuter routes, Underground strikes are due to go ahead next week, with some Stagecoach bus services also affected by separate action. For readers travelling in from the KT15 area, that could mean busier rail services, altered connections and longer journeys.

In Surrey, a woodland known for its spring bluebells is reaching peak season and is only a short distance from the A3. It is the sort of timely weekend spot likely to appeal to families and walkers looking for a local outing before the display fades.

In Guildford and Waverley, concern is mounting over legacy debt linked to the borough councils as reorganisation looms. The argument goes to the heart of how local services and finances could be handled in the years ahead.

In Epsom, Surrey Police says there will be an increased presence in the town this weekend after a protest linked to an alleged rape. The decision follows heightened local concern and the potential for further tensions in the area.

From Lechlade to Teddington Lock, a Royal Navy veteran is taking on a 126-mile paddle to raise money for RNLI and Combat Stress. The challenge links south-west London with the Thames corridor and gives local supporters a clear route to follow.

In the Guildford area, the latest Birdwatcher’s Diary tracks spring sightings after a spell of warm early-April weather. It offers a snapshot of what is currently being seen locally as migration and nesting activity pick up.

In Guildford and Waverley, debate over local government changes is intensifying ahead of the planned April 2027 shake-up. The latest intervention argues promised savings may not materialise and that the consequences for local democracy could be lasting.

In Surrey, a man in his 50s died at the scene of a late-night crash near a village, according to Surrey Police. The incident is likely to prompt questions over the circumstances and whether there was wider disruption on nearby roads.

An EastEnders villain will return to our screens soon after a two-year break.

In Elmbridge, the long-awaited £1.3 million revamp of Hurst Pool has been delayed for a second time. The council says a start date is still being finalised, extending uncertainty around a much-used local facility.

In Westminster, fresh questions are being asked about when ministers knew of concerns over Peter Mandelson’s vetting. The row is intensifying before Sir Keir Starmer addresses MPs on Monday, with pressure building over who knew what and when.

In Westminster, the government is due to host a summit on Monday focused on keeping children safe online in the age of AI. The meeting is expected to look at how rapidly changing technology is affecting young people and what protections may be needed next.

In London, historian Anna Keay has been named as the official biographer of Queen Elizabeth II. The appointment opens the way for a major new royal history based on access to members of the Royal Family and the late Queen’s legacy.

Across the UK, the NHS is reminding pregnant women and those planning a pregnancy to take a key vitamin to support their baby’s development. The advice is a practical public health message likely to matter to many families right now.

Palestinian Prisoners’ Day is marked every year on 17 April. It began in 1974, after the Palestinian National Council chose the date to honour the first Palestinian prisoner exchange, linked to Mahmoud Bakr Hijazi’s release in 1971. Hijazi was the first Palestinian to be captured by Israeli occupati

A chance meeting has inspired 86-year-old Mike Patrick to take on a remarkable 100-mile walk for charity, raising money for Cure EB in support of 14-year-old Poppy. It’s a lovely reminder that kindness and determination can go hand in hand — and that it’s never too late to make a real difference for someone else.

In Hendon, counter-terror police have taken over the investigation into an arson attack on a shop because of similarities with other recent incidents in north-west London. The case adds a more serious dimension to what might otherwise have been treated as a local fire inquiry.

Across London, Sadiq Khan has said he will work with Reform UK- or Green-run councils if voters hand them control on 7 May. The pledge points to potentially awkward political partnerships at City Hall after the local election results come in.

In Newham, a former council tutor has lost an unfair dismissal claim after being dismissed for secretly holding four other jobs while on sick leave. The council reportedly uncovered the work through the employee’s own published blog.

In central London, jurors were told a police sergeant feared her spine had been shattered after she was struck in the back with a sledgehammer. The evidence came in a trial linked to a Palestine Action protest and underlines the severity of the alleged assault.

More problems with recruitment and retention at the cash-strapped council as the woman tipped for top job heads for the exit. KEN LEE reports Jenny Rowlands, who was hired in February as the council’s £166,000 per year assistant chief executive, … Continue reading →

Across London, Tube strikes are due to go ahead next week after the RMT accused TfL of refusing to negotiate. The dispute points to widespread disruption for anyone relying on the Underground for work, school runs or appointments.

In north-west London, police are treating an arson attack as an antisemitic hate crime after a man allegedly tried to ignite a bag containing fluid. The investigation comes amid heightened concern over targeted incidents affecting Jewish businesses and communities.

In Streatham, a local election contest has been dragged into a national Labour attack on Green candidates over alleged racist and antisemitic social media posts. The dispute has intensified scrutiny of candidates’ online histories just weeks before voting.

In Soho, Berwick Street’s long-running link to vinyl is back in focus as Record Store Day returns for 2026. The guide looks at the area’s music heritage and where collectors are likely to head for special releases and queues this weekend.

Laurence Banks and Emma Iliffe on the formation of a new network for deaf people in the borough

A north London woman is offering a remarkably generous route onto the property ladder by raffling off her £370,000 two-bedroom flat for just £5 a ticket. In a city where buying a home can feel out of reach for so many, it’s a genuinely heartening gesture aimed at helping the next generation get a foothold.

At Gonerby Moor near Grantham, a new Hobbycraft concession has opened inside the British Garden Centre. The store adds more than 1,800 square feet of craft supplies locally, giving shoppers another reason to head out that way rather than travel further afield.

In South Kesteven, council officer Sean Davies is preparing to take part in the Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon despite living with Motor Neurone Disease. His story centres on both personal determination and the impact of newer genetic treatment after a diagnosis that would once have made this far less likely.

In Lincoln, teacher Rob has described the lasting effects of a brain injury after suffering a stroke at just 24. His account traces a long health journey from childhood heart surgery to the day-to-day reality of coping with ongoing symptoms.

In Gainsborough, Lincolnshire Co-op has reopened a funeral home after a £175,000 refurbishment. The upgraded site now includes a chapel of rest, private reflection areas and a dedicated office for families making arrangements.

Across Lincolnshire, the Wildlife Trust is putting on early-morning dawn chorus walks ahead of International Dawn Chorus Day on 3 May. The events offer residents a chance to get into local nature sites at their liveliest, with birdsong and spring wildlife the main draw.

A park was closed for several hours today

The road has been closed by police

A lovely bit of local history is being brought back to life, with a set of medieval steps restored after lying neglected and unused for around 100 years. Thanks to the dedication of volunteers, the once-overgrown route is ready for an official opening — a heartening example of people coming together to preserve something special for future generations.

Across Nottinghamshire, Sunday 19 April is set to be dry and fairly bright with plenty of sunshine early on. Patchy cloud is expected later in the day before a cool, settled evening.

In Clifton, police and bomb disposal officers were called after a suspicious package was reported. The item was later made safe and the cordon was stood down, after disruption in the area for several hours.

In Bulwell town centre, detectives are investigating a knifepoint robbery in which a 14-year-old was targeted in an alleyway. Police have now issued an image of a युवक they want to speak to as inquiries continue.

In Nottinghamshire, a Japanese company is considering a £60 million investment to create its new UK headquarters. The project is expected to support economic regeneration and could bring more than 100 jobs to the area.

The road has been closed by police

The crash involved a bus, a car and the 11-year-old boy on his bicycle

A former family pet has started an inspiring new chapter as a freshly qualified Nottinghamshire Police dog. After 13 weeks of intensive training, PD Riddick is now ready for duty — a lovely reminder that with care and the right chance, a new lease of life can lead to something truly special.

On the East Coast Main Line through York, passengers faced another spell of lengthy delays on Saturday. The disruption is the latest headache on a route used by many travelling across North Yorkshire, with knock-on effects likely well beyond the city.

Here is our review of Yorkshire rockstar Yungblud's Leeds Arena show last night

Across North Yorkshire and York, new natural flood management projects are being pushed as a way to slow water before it reaches towns and villages. The approach is not being sold as a full answer, but it could become an important extra layer of protection in flood-prone areas.

At Scarborough Spa, Star Wars characters and science-fiction fans turned the seafront venue into a costumed convention space this weekend. The event brought crowds to the coast and added a lively tourism boost for the town.

A council worker and police officer suffered injuries to their arms and buttocks, police say.

Westminster is braced for another difficult week for Sir Keir Starmer after fresh questions over when ministers knew about concerns linked to Peter Mandelson’s vetting. David Lammy is said to be worried key information did not reach ministers sooner, and the prime minister is due to address MPs on Monday.

London will host a government summit on Monday focused on how children can be kept safe online as artificial intelligence becomes more embedded in everyday life. The meeting is expected to look at the risks facing young people and what action ministers, regulators and technology firms should take next.

Kensington Gardens in London reopened after police examined suspicious items found near the Israeli embassy and declared them non-hazardous. Officers were called after a group claimed to have targeted the area with dangerous substances, prompting a temporary closure and a high-profile security response.

London and Manchester were at the centre of a significant Premier League result as Manchester United beat Chelsea to strengthen their bid for Champions League football. The defeat leaves Chelsea under even more pressure, with questions growing over how their season has unravelled.

Palestinian Prisoners’ Day is marked every year on 17 April. It began in 1974, after the Palestinian National Council chose the date to honour the first Palestinian prisoner exchange, linked to Mahmoud Bakr Hijazi’s release in 1971. Hijazi was the first Palestinian to be captured by Israeli occupati

St Paul’s Nursery School in York is finally back in its home after two and a half years on the move, following a £1.4 million rebuild and upgrade. It’s a lovely moment for pupils, staff and families alike — a real fresh start, and a chance to celebrate being back where they belong.

In Nottingham, a park was shut for several hours after police called in the bomb squad to deal with a suspicious package. The incident caused confusion for visitors and led to a sizeable emergency response while the area was checked.

In Nottinghamshire, a Japanese company is considering the county for a new UK headquarters in a project worth £60 million. Backers say the scheme would support regeneration and create more than 100 jobs if it goes ahead.

In Nottinghamshire, teachers are preparing strike action over proposed job cuts at an academy, with the union warning of serious consequences for staff and pupils. The trust says it regrets the distress caused and is still in talks in an effort to avoid a walkout.

Rob was born with an atrial septal defect in his heart and had his first open heart surgery when he was just 18 months old

In Nottinghamshire, Reform MP Robert Jenrick has stepped up calls for more North Sea oil drilling, arguing existing licences should be approved. The intervention adds to the wider political clash over energy policy and net zero priorities.

Westminster is braced for another difficult week for Sir Keir Starmer after fresh questions over when ministers knew about concerns linked to Peter Mandelson’s vetting. The foreign secretary is reported to be worried the issue was not raised sooner, and the prime minister is due to face MPs on Monday.

London will host a government summit on Monday focused on how children can be kept safe online as artificial intelligence becomes more embedded in everyday life. The event points to possible new pressure on tech firms and could influence future policy on screens, platforms and child protection.

Kensington Gardens in London has reopened after police examined suspicious items found close to the Israeli embassy and decided they were not hazardous. The incident still prompted a major security response, with officers investigating after a group claimed responsibility.

London and Manchester clubs saw their seasons shift again after Manchester United beat Chelsea to boost their hopes of finishing in the Champions League places. For Chelsea, the result adds to the pressure as rivals pull away at a crucial stage of the campaign.

Palestinian Prisoners’ Day is marked every year on 17 April. It began in 1974, after the Palestinian National Council chose the date to honour the first Palestinian prisoner exchange, linked to Mahmoud Bakr Hijazi’s release in 1971. Hijazi was the first Palestinian to be captured by Israeli occupati

Sherwood Library’s reopening is a lovely boost for the local community, giving residents a bright, refreshed space to read, learn and spend time together. It’s the sort of investment that brings people in, strengthens neighbourhood ties and gives everyone something positive to enjoy close to home.

In Nottinghamshire, a Japanese firm is considering a £60m investment to create its new UK headquarters and says the scheme would bring more than 100 jobs. The project is being pitched as a boost for economic regeneration, with implications for local business growth and employment.

In Nottinghamshire, teachers are preparing to strike over what unions describe as severe staffing cuts at an academy. The trust says it regrets the distress caused and is in talks to try to avoid disruption for pupils and families.

In Nottingham, a park was closed for several hours after a suspicious package prompted a bomb squad response. The incident caused confusion on the ground and raised fresh concerns about public safety in a busy public space.

In Lincoln, a teacher has spoken about the lasting effects of a brain injury after suffering a stroke at just 24. His account sheds light on the long-term impact of recovery and the hidden daily challenges that can follow a major health emergency.

In Nottingham city centre, organisers behind the new Rainbow Quarter have unveiled plans for its official launch, including street parties and a possible appearance by Sir Ian McKellen. The project aims to create a visible LGBTQ+ district and add a fresh cultural draw to the city.

In Nottinghamshire, Reform MP Robert Jenrick has called for ministers to approve more North Sea oil drilling, arguing licences are ready to go. The intervention adds to the wider row over energy policy, jobs and how the UK balances costs with climate targets.

In Gainsborough, a Lincolnshire Co-op funeral home has reopened after a £175,000 refurbishment. The updated site now includes a chapel of rest, private reflection areas and improved facilities for families arranging funerals.

In London, the government is due to host a summit on how to keep children safe online as AI becomes more embedded in everyday life. The event is expected to focus on the risks young people face and what stronger safeguards platforms and developers may be pushed to adopt.

In Westminster, the foreign secretary is said to be concerned that ministers were not told earlier about security vetting fears linked to Peter Mandelson. The controversy is now piling more pressure on Sir Keir Starmer ahead of a statement to MPs.

In the UK, historian Anna Keay has been appointed as the official biographer of Queen Elizabeth II. She is expected to interview members of the Royal Family as part of the project, giving the book unusual access and significance.

In London, Manchester United beat Chelsea in a result that strengthens their hopes of qualifying for the Champions League. The defeat leaves Chelsea under greater pressure and is likely to sharpen scrutiny on their season run-in.

In England, the NHS is reminding pregnant women and those hoping to conceive to take an important vitamin to support their baby’s development. The advice is a timely health prompt and may also apply before pregnancy begins.

In the Strait of Hormuz, Iran says the vital shipping route has been closed again after attacks on vessels. The move threatens a major artery for global energy supplies and could quickly feed through into fuel markets and wider economic nerves.

In Oregon, the decades-old disappearance of a family missing since 1958 has reportedly been solved after an amateur diver located their car and remains. The discovery appears to close one of the state’s longest-running missing persons mysteries.

In Vatican City, Pope Francis has said a speech referring to 'tyrants' was not aimed at Donald Trump. His clarification follows a public spat that had drawn international attention and political interpretation.

In Mexico City, President Claudia Sheinbaum has rejected suggestions of a diplomatic crisis with Spain linked to arguments over the Spanish conquest. The remarks are an attempt to cool a row that had become increasingly awkward for both governments.

In Washington, Buckley Carlson has reportedly stepped down from Vice President JD Vance’s communications team. The move comes as Tucker Carlson’s relationship with Donald Trump is said to be deteriorating, adding intrigue to Republican infighting.

A lovely bit of community news: families in Sherwood are celebrating the opening of a new library, with parents calling it “fantastic” after a long wait. As well as giving children a bright new place to read and learn, it’s being welcomed as a real hub where the community can come together.

In Stockport, a mother has spoken about the distress of repeatedly finding her toddler’s bedsheets covered in blood and not knowing why it is happening. She says she is determined to get to the bottom of her daughter’s condition as the family looks for answers.

In Manchester city centre, Britain First demonstrators and counter-protesters gathered in large numbers, prompting a police response and arrests. The protest also disrupted tram services, causing knock-on effects for people travelling across Greater Manchester.

In Manchester, a look back at the Hacienda explores how one item on the 10 o’clock news is said to have changed the club’s trajectory. The piece revisits a key moment in the city’s cultural history and why some believe it burst the venue’s unique atmosphere.

In London, Manchester United boosted their Champions League hopes with a significant win over Chelsea. For supporters across Greater Manchester, the result sharpens the run-in and piles pressure on rivals as the season heads towards its final stretch.

In Manchester, previously unseen photographs are casting new light on Tony Wilson’s influence on the city’s music and cultural identity. The collection revisits the broadcaster and Factory Records figure many credit with helping put Manchester on the global map.

In Manchester, Madhusmita Jena is preparing to run the Manchester Marathon in a sari as she aims for a record. The challenge adds an extra layer to an already demanding race and is likely to draw attention along the route this weekend.

In Westminster, ministers are facing new scrutiny over when concerns about Peter Mandelson’s vetting were known inside government. Sir Keir Starmer is due to address MPs on Monday, with opponents demanding answers over how the issue was handled.

In London, the government will host a summit on Monday focused on keeping children safe online in the age of artificial intelligence. The event signals growing concern over how fast-moving AI tools are affecting young people’s online lives and protections.

Across England, the NHS is urging pregnant women and those hoping to conceive to make sure they are taking an important vitamin. The guidance is aimed at reducing risks during pregnancy and may affect advice given by GPs, midwives and pharmacies.

In London, Kensington Gardens reopened after police examined suspicious items found near the Israeli embassy and judged them non-hazardous. The incident led to a security response in a high-profile part of the capital before access was restored.

Palestinian Prisoners’ Day is marked every year on 17 April. It began in 1974, after the Palestinian National Council chose the date to honour the first Palestinian prisoner exchange, linked to Mahmoud Bakr Hijazi’s release in 1971. Hijazi was the first Palestinian to be captured by Israeli occupati

A Yorkshire canal boater has been dubbed ‘Super Claire’ after stepping in to help, turning an ordinary day into a lovely reminder of how much small acts of kindness matter. It’s the sort of cheerful, community-spirited story that leaves you smiling — proof that good deeds still brighten people’s days.

Gallows Corner in Romford remains without a confirmed reopening date, even though Transport for London is still aiming to finish works by the end of April. For drivers travelling between Chigwell, the A12 and east London, the continued uncertainty means congestion and diversions could drag on a while longer.

Redbridge has received a planning proposal to convert a former children’s home into a 19-household HMO as part of the latest batch of applications before the council. The scheme raises fresh questions about housing pressure, neighbourhood impact and how larger residential conversions are being handled locally.

East London courts have jailed a string of offenders in April, including a woman linked to a cancer-faking case as well as others convicted of serious crimes. The roundup gives a snapshot of the latest sentencing outcomes affecting communities across the wider Ilford and east London patch.

Essex Police are continuing to search for a man described as high risk who was recalled to prison months ago and remains wanted. The appeal is a fresh reminder for residents across Essex to stay alert and report any sightings rather than approaching him.

In Essex, one school has been identified as having the county’s worst attendance rate, putting the spotlight on persistent absence and pupil welfare. School leaders say improving strong and sustained attendance remains a priority as pressure grows on families and education services.

Colchester is weighing up the prospect of John Terry becoming involved with Colchester United, with supporters voicing both excitement and concern. The debate centres on what a high-profile takeover could mean for the club’s direction, identity and finances.

Ian Smith says he was a "red rag to a bull" after his wife said he would never gain 100 followers.

One man says he cancelled his holiday to Spain due to the rising costs and uncertainty.

A lovely bit of news from Essex: an adorable rescue dog has finally found her forever home after spending 200 days at a shelter. She arrived with her six young puppies, so it’s especially heartwarming to see her happy ending at last.

Across London, Tube drivers are due to walk out next week after talks between the RMT and TfL broke down. The dispute now points to fresh disruption on the Underground, with passengers likely to face cancellations and longer journeys.

In Hendon, police are investigating an arson attack on a shop as an antisemitic hate crime. Counter-terror officers are involved after similarities were noted with other recent incidents in north-west London.

In Soho, Berwick Street’s long-running record shop culture is back in focus ahead of Record Store Day 2026. The guide looks at the area’s vinyl heritage and highlights where music fans can head this weekend.

At North Quay in Canary Wharf, the next tower in the docklands skyline is now visibly taking shape. The update offers a snapshot of one of London’s biggest commercial development areas as construction moves on.

Sir Sadiq Khan, Mayor of London, has vowed to work constructively with any Green or Reform-controlled councils that emerge in London following the local elections on 7 May. The latest survey by JL Partners shows Zack Polanski’s insurgent Greens gaining the most votes in Hackney and Haringey, while r

Westminster is braced for another difficult week for Sir Keir Starmer after the foreign secretary raised concerns that ministers were not told earlier about Peter Mandelson’s vetting problems. The row is now feeding calls for resignations, with the prime minister due to face MPs on Monday.

London will host a government summit on Monday focused on how children can be kept safe online as artificial intelligence becomes more embedded in daily life. The event is expected to bring together ministers and experts as pressure grows for clearer rules around education, social media and tech platforms.

Kensington Gardens in west London has reopened after police examined suspicious items found close to the Israeli embassy and judged them to be non-hazardous. The incident prompted a temporary closure on Saturday and a visible security response in one of the capital’s busiest park areas.

Across England, the NHS is urging pregnant women and those trying for a baby to take folic acid to help reduce the risk of serious birth defects. The reminder underlines that the vitamin is most effective when taken before pregnancy and in the early weeks, when many women may not yet realise they are expecting.

Tottenham in north London suffered another damaging setback after Brighton snatched a late result that deepened the sense of a season drifting off course. For Spurs supporters, the latest collapse adds to growing anxiety about form, direction and how much room for error is left.

A London woman is offering a remarkably generous helping hand by raffling her £370,000 two-bedroom flat for just £5, hoping to give someone a life-changing step onto the property ladder. In a city where buying a home can feel out of reach for so many, it’s a heartening idea that could make one person’s dream come true.

Southampton city centre is set to host a Peace Protest for Palestine on Saturday, organised by Southampton Palestine Solidarity Campaign. The demonstration is due to begin at midday and is expected to bring people into the centre over the weekend.

Winchester's Theatre Royal has announced Sleeping Beauty as its family pantomime for the 2026/27 festive run. The production is scheduled from 4 December 2026 to 3 January, giving families plenty of notice to plan ahead.

Southsea seafront has had its temporary Brent geese refuge removed after being put in place during sea defence works. The enclosure was designed to help overwintering birds while the coastline project was under way.

Across the South, reports have emerged over time of unexpected animals roaming loose, including capybaras, skunks and wallabies. The round-up highlights some of the region's more unusual wildlife and exotic escape sightings.

Across the South, dozens of state secondary schools are taking part in the new Knight-Stokes Cup. Organisers hope the competition will give school cricket a lift and open up the game to more young players.

Westminster is braced for another row over Peter Mandelson’s failed vetting, with David Lammy reportedly concerned ministers were not told earlier. Sir Keir Starmer is due to face MPs on Monday, keeping the issue firmly at the top of the political agenda.

London will host the government’s 'Childhood in the Age of AI' summit on Monday, focusing on how to protect children online as artificial intelligence becomes more widespread. The event signals that tougher action on digital safety could be moving up the agenda for schools, parents and tech firms.

Kensington Gardens in London reopened after police investigated suspicious items found close to the Israeli embassy and later ruled them non-hazardous. The closure caused a significant security response and will raise fresh questions about safety around high-profile sites in the capital.

London and Manchester clubs were at the centre of a significant Premier League result as Manchester United beat Chelsea to strengthen their Champions League push. The defeat leaves Chelsea under more pressure and adds fresh drama to the closing stretch of the season.

Palestinian Prisoners’ Day is marked every year on 17 April. It began in 1974, after the Palestinian National Council chose the date to honour the first Palestinian prisoner exchange, linked to Mahmoud Bakr Hijazi’s release in 1971. Hijazi was the first Palestinian to be captured by Israeli occupati

A touch of culture and joy comes from Christchurch, where Hurn Court Opera’s La Traviata has been warmly praised for a wonderful performance led by Caroline Taylor as Violetta. It’s a lovely reminder of the power of local arts to bring people together and brighten the week with music, talent and a bit of theatrical magic.

Camborne is counting down to Trevithick Day on 25 April, with steam engines, music and dancing set to take over the town. The annual event celebrates mining engineer Richard Trevithick and is one of Cornwall’s best-known heritage days.

Camborne secured promotion to National One after getting the try bonus point needed to clinch the National Two West title. It is a major moment for the West Cornwall club and a result likely to be felt across the county’s rugby scene.

Cornwall children are being encouraged to see space and STEM jobs as realistic career paths after the Artemis II mission captured attention. The story highlights how the county’s growing links to the space sector are shaping ambitions among younger people.

Westminster is braced for another difficult week for Sir Keir Starmer after fresh questions over when ministers were told about concerns linked to Peter Mandelson. The prime minister is due to address MPs on Monday as calls grow for a fuller explanation.

London will be the centre of attention after historian Anna Keay was named as the official biographer of Queen Elizabeth II. The book is expected to include interviews with members of the Royal Family, making it one of the most closely watched royal projects in years.

Across England, the NHS is urging women who are pregnant or trying for a baby to take folic acid. The advice is aimed at reducing the risk of birth defects and is especially important in the early stages of pregnancy.

Brighton dealt Tottenham another blow after a late equaliser left their survival hopes looking even thinner. The result piles pressure on the squad at a stage of the season when every point has become critical.

Global markets reacted after Iran said the Strait of Hormuz would remain open during the ceasefire, sending Brent crude down sharply. For households and businesses across the UK, that could ease pressure on petrol, diesel and wider transport costs if the move holds.

The Strait of Hormuz has been closed again, according to Iran, after ships were attacked in one of the world’s most important shipping lanes. The move threatens another spike in global energy prices and adds fresh uncertainty to an already fragile ceasefire.

Oregon investigators say the disappearance of the Martin family, who vanished in 1958, has finally been solved after an amateur diver found a wrecked car and human remains. The breakthrough closes one of the United States’ longest-running missing persons mysteries.

Vatican City has moved to calm a political row after Pope Francis said comments about 'tyrants' were not directed at Donald Trump. The clarification follows a public spat that had drawn global attention because of the Pope’s wording and timing.

Mexico City has sought to play down suggestions of a diplomatic crisis with Spain after renewed debate over the legacy of Spanish conquest. President Claudia Sheinbaum said tensions had been overstated despite the issue becoming politically sensitive.

Washington politics has taken another twist after reports that Buckley Carlson has left Vice-President JD Vance’s team. The move comes as tensions between Tucker Carlson and Donald Trump appear to be hardening, adding to intrigue inside Republican circles.

Some of Cornwall’s most inspiring over-60s have been recognised in a special celebration of local people proving that age is no barrier to making a difference. With more than 220 nominations and 60 remarkable finalists, it’s a lovely reminder of the talent, spirit and community pride found right across the county.

In Clifton, police and bomb disposal officers were called after a suspicious package was reported on Saturday. The item was later made safe and the cordon was lifted, ending several hours of disruption in the area.

Across Nottinghamshire, Sunday is expected to stay largely dry with sunny spells early on and patchy cloud later in the day. Conditions should remain settled into the evening, though temperatures will feel on the cool side.

In Nottinghamshire, rail passengers faced major disruption after an incident left services badly delayed and some people stuck on a train for more than eight hours. The knock-on effects hit journeys across the network and caused a day of travel chaos.

In Bulwell town centre, detectives are trying to identify a youth after a 14-year-old boy was robbed at knifepoint in an alleyway. Officers have issued an image as they step up their appeal for information.

In St Ann’s, police taped off the lower end of St Bartholomews Road following a reported serious assault. The closure blocked access through the street while officers carried out inquiries.

Across the East Midlands, nearly £3 million is being invested in museums, libraries and arts venues to improve access to culture. The funding is aimed at helping local institutions upgrade sites and widen what they offer to communities.

On Nottingham Road in Derby, an 11-year-old boy died after a collision involving a bus, a car and a cyclist on Friday evening. Police are appealing for witnesses and dashcam footage as they investigate what happened.

In Nottinghamshire, a Japanese company is considering a £60 million investment to build its new UK headquarters. The proposal is being pitched as a major regeneration move and could create more than 100 jobs.

In Nottingham, a charity says flowers and shrubs planted just last month have been stolen from one of its sites. The loss has angered organisers, who say the plants were meant to brighten the area for local people.

The road has been closed by police

The crash involved a bus, a car and the 11-year-old boy on his bicycle

Rob was born with an atrial septal defect in his heart and had his first open heart surgery when he was just 18 months old

A lovely new chapter is beginning for Riddick, a former family pet who has just qualified as a Nottinghamshire Police dog after 13 weeks of training. The 18-month-old Belgian Malinois cross is now ready to serve the community, showing how a second chance can become something truly special.

Ellesmere College is teaming up with Nightingale House Hospice for its national art exhibition in 2026. The partnership links a well-known local arts event with fundraising support for hospice care in Wrexham, giving the exhibition a stronger community focus.

Shrewsbury is set to host part of the Sunflower Sprint 2026 this May, a new 5k event also taking place in Telford and Powys. Organisers say it will mix family-friendly fun with fundraising for a £5 million cancer care appeal.

Ellesmere figure Rob McBride, known as the Tree Hunter, has paid tribute following the death of broadcaster and DJ Andy Kershaw at 66. The piece reflects on Kershaw’s cultural impact and the personal connection felt by people in Shropshire.

Shropshire is set to see more than 90 stretches of road resurfaced in the coming months as the council continues its highways programme. The works are aimed at improving road conditions and tackling potholes, with likely knock-on effects for drivers during the rollout.

Across the West Mercia area, police seized drugs worth £2.3 million between April 2025 and March 2026. The figures also show 308 arrests and 58 weapons recovered, offering a snapshot of the scale of enforcement across Shropshire and neighbouring counties.

In Staffordshire, around 400 people joined a protest walk against proposed housing developments totalling 1,500 homes. The turnout underlines the strength of local feeling over the scale of building and what it could mean for the area.

Ludlow police are investigating a burglary at the NatWest Bank on Bull Ring in the early hours of Friday, 17 April. Officers have issued an appeal for information as they work to establish how the break-in happened and who was involved.

In Shropshire, restaurateur George Miah has spoken about facing down racist customers in the early days of running his business. Ahead of its 50th anniversary, he reflects on how the restaurant became a fixture in the local community.

A lovely bit of good news from Oswestry: the Hope House Pop Up has proved such a hit that it’s extending its opening. It means more chances for shoppers to pick up a bargain while supporting a charity that makes a real difference to local children and families.

St Ann’s saw a police cordon put in place on St Bartholomews Road after reports of a serious assault. The lower section of the street was taped off while officers dealt with the incident and carried out enquiries.

Nottingham city centre police arrested two teenagers inside Boyes on Lower Parliament Street after three knives were reportedly left on store shelves. The incident unfolded in the new shop and adds to concerns about weapons being carried in busy retail areas.

Nottinghamshire rail passengers faced severe disruption after an incident left some stuck on a train for more than eight hours. Services across the county were badly affected, with knock-on delays likely to matter to anyone travelling this weekend.

Bulwell town centre detectives have released an image after a 14-year-old boy was reportedly robbed at knifepoint in an alleyway. Officers are appealing for help to identify a youth they want to speak to as the investigation continues.

Nottinghamshire could gain more than 100 jobs if a Japanese company presses ahead with plans for a £60 million UK headquarters in the county. The proposal is being pitched as a boost for regeneration and will be closely watched for where the investment lands.

The road has been closed by police

The crash involved a bus, a car and the 11-year-old boy on his bicycle

Rob was born with an atrial septal defect in his heart and had his first open heart surgery when he was just 18 months old

A lovely piece of Nottingham history is about to spring back to life, with the Lace Market’s medieval Long Stairs officially reopening after 93 years. Better still, the restored space won’t just be admired from afar — it’s set to become a welcoming spot for local bands, poetry nights and fundraising events, giving the community a beautiful new place to come together.

Nottinghamshire is set for a dry and fairly bright Sunday, with plenty of sunshine early on before patchy cloud builds through the afternoon. Conditions should stay settled into the evening, with cooler temperatures later in the day.

Clifton saw a police cordon and bomb disposal response after reports of a suspicious package. Nottinghamshire Police later said the item had been made safe and the incident was stood down.

Bulwell town centre is at the centre of a police appeal after a 14-year-old was reportedly robbed at knifepoint in an alleyway. Detectives have issued an image of a youth they want to trace as inquiries continue.

The bottom of St Bartholomews Road was taped off

Across the East Midlands, cultural venues, museums and libraries are due to benefit from almost £3 million in new investment. The funding is intended to improve access to arts and culture across the region.

Nottinghamshire could land a new UK headquarters for a Japanese company under plans worth £60 million. The project is being pitched as a boost for regeneration and could create more than 100 jobs.

In Nottinghamshire, firefighters were called out after a duckling became trapped in a drain while trying to cross a busy road. The incident has prompted calls for warning signs to help protect wildlife at the spot.

The road has been closed by police

The crash involved a bus, a car and the 11-year-old boy on his bicycle

Rob was born with an atrial septal defect in his heart and had his first open heart surgery when he was just 18 months old

Sherwood has something lovely to celebrate, with a much-anticipated new library finally opening its doors and delighting local families. Parents have described it as “fantastic”, and it promises to be a welcoming community space where people can come together, read, learn and spend time with one another.

York has welcomed changes to council tax debt collection after experts criticised the way arrears are pursued. The shift could affect how quickly debts escalate and what support residents are offered before enforcement action begins.

York residents have raised concerns after gas works left grass verges dug up in parts of the city. The row centres on whether the land will be properly restored, with frustration growing over the condition of affected streets.

York is the focus of fresh wartime intrigue after a rediscovered Nazi map appeared to mark Bettys Tea Room among possible targets. The find has prompted new questions about what was considered strategically important in the city during the 1940s.

Pocklington saw former cabinet minister Sir David Davis visit Woldgate School to speak with pupils. The York-born MP’s appearance gave students a chance to hear directly from a senior political figure with long experience in Westminster.

Clifton Moor in York is home to a new counselling business set up by Suzanne Wright after a cancer diagnosis changed her direction. Her new service marks a personal and professional reset, turning lived experience into local mental health support.

North Yorkshire is looking at using more natural flood management to reduce pressure on rivers and drainage systems during heavy rain. The approach is not being pitched as a complete answer, but it could become part of the wider effort to protect communities, farmland and infrastructure across the county.

A York school is finally back where it belongs, with St Paul’s Nursery School celebrating its return home after two and a half years of rebuilding and improvements. It’s a lovely milestone for pupils, staff and families alike – and a heartening sign of fresh beginnings for the whole school community.

In Molesey, the long-promised overhaul of Hurst Pool has slipped for a second time, with Elmbridge Borough Council still finalising when work will begin. The delay leaves questions over when the well-used facility will get its £1.3m upgrade and what that means for swimmers planning ahead.

In Surrey, two community centres are set to transfer to a charity for a nominal fee as part of plans to create a so-called centre of excellence. The move has prompted concern about the loss of public assets and how much control local communities will keep over the buildings.

Near the A3 in Surrey, a woodland known for its bluebell displays is entering one of the best weeks of the year to visit. With spring conditions bringing the flowers into view, it is likely to draw plenty of families and walkers looking for a local day out.

In Surrey, a man in his 50s died at the scene after a late-night motorcycle crash near a village on Friday. Surrey Police are investigating the circumstances and the incident is likely to raise fresh concerns about road safety on rural routes.

In Surrey, proposals for 42 affordable homes have met opposition from residents worried about the impact of the development. The row puts housing need and neighbourhood concerns in direct tension as the scheme moves through the planning process.

Across the South East, music fans queued for hours at independent record shops for Record Store Day releases. The annual event gave smaller retailers a timely boost and turned high streets into a gathering point for collectors and casual browsers alike.

In Westminster, the row over Peter Mandelson’s security vetting has deepened after former foreign secretary James Cleverly said senior ministers must have known. The intervention increases scrutiny on David Lammy and keeps the story firmly at the top of the political agenda.

In Kensington, police closed parts of Kensington Gardens after suspicious items were found near the Israeli embassy, before later declaring them non-hazardous. The incident caused disruption in a busy part of London and drew attention because of the embassy location and security response.

At Stamford Bridge in London, Manchester United boosted their Champions League hopes with a result that leaves Chelsea under sharper pressure. The match has immediate consequences for the Premier League table and plenty of talking points for fans heading into the new week.

Palestinian Prisoners’ Day is marked every year on 17 April. It began in 1974, after the Palestinian National Council chose the date to honour the first Palestinian prisoner exchange, linked to Mahmoud Bakr Hijazi’s release in 1971. Hijazi was the first Palestinian to be captured by Israeli occupati

Former Foreign Office chief Sir Olly Robbins is expected to be grilled by the Foreign Affairs Committee on Tuesday.

In the Gulf, Iran says the Strait of Hormuz has been closed again after ships were attacked, blaming a US blockade for the move. Any disruption in one of the world’s key shipping lanes could quickly affect energy markets, trade and the wider international crisis.

In Kyiv, at least six people were killed after a gunman opened fire in a supermarket and took hostages before police stormed the building. The attack adds another layer of insecurity for Ukraine’s capital and will prompt questions about the suspect’s motives and background.

In Oregon, the mystery of a family who vanished in 1958 has reportedly been solved after an amateur diver found their car and remains. The discovery closes one of the state’s longest-running missing persons cases and is likely to prompt renewed attention on other cold cases.

At the Vatican, Pope Francis said comments about tyrants had been misread after they were taken as a swipe at Donald Trump. The clarification follows a public row that underlines how quickly religious and political messaging can spill into global diplomacy.

In the United States, NPR has received an $80m gift from the wife of billionaire Steve Ballmer as questions grow over its long-term funding. The donation is large enough to reshape the broadcaster’s immediate future and has reignited debate about how public-interest journalism is paid for.

A Royal Navy veteran is taking on an inspiring 126-mile paddle to raise money for the RNLI and Combat Stress, turning determination into support for others who’ve served. It’s a heartening reminder of the difference one person can make for their community, and a lovely example of resilience being used for good.

Here is our review of Yorkshire rockstar Yungblud's Leeds Arena show last night

North Yorkshire is looking at natural flood management as part of a wider effort to reduce flood risk in places including York and surrounding communities. The approach focuses on slowing water upstream rather than relying only on concrete defences, with advocates saying it could become an important extra layer of protection.

Scarborough Spa drew sci-fi fans from across the coast as Star Wars characters and costumed visitors arrived for a festival by the sea. The event turned the venue into a busy spectacle and gave families another reason to head to Scarborough this weekend.

North Yorkshire has approved plans for a new multi-use sports pitch despite objections from nearby residents about possible noise. The decision clears the way for the school development to proceed, with the balance between better facilities and neighbourhood impact at the centre of the debate.

A council worker and police officer suffered injuries to their arms and buttocks, police say.

In the UK, ministers will host a 'Childhood in the Age of AI' summit on Monday as pressure grows over how children are exposed to online risks. The meeting is expected to focus on safety rules, platform responsibility and what stronger protections for families could look like.

Across the UK, the NHS is reminding pregnant women and those trying for a baby to take a key vitamin to reduce risks to a developing child. The advice also applies before pregnancy, making it a timely health message for families planning ahead.

In Westminster, the row over Peter Mandelson’s appointment as ambassador to Washington has deepened after David Lammy said Keir Starmer would have stopped it if he had known about the vetting issue. The remarks raise fresh questions about who knew what inside government and when.

In Westminster, former Foreign Office chief Sir Olly Robbins is due before the Foreign Affairs Committee on Tuesday over the Mandelson security controversy. MPs are expected to press him on how such a sensitive appointment was handled and whether ministers were kept in the dark.

Palestinian Prisoners’ Day is marked every year on 17 April. It began in 1974, after the Palestinian National Council chose the date to honour the first Palestinian prisoner exchange, linked to Mahmoud Bakr Hijazi’s release in 1971. Hijazi was the first Palestinian to be captured by Israeli occupati

There’s a lovely homecoming in York, as St Paul’s Nursery School celebrates returning to its own building after more than two years away during a £1.4 million rebuild and upgrade. It’s a heartening milestone for pupils, staff and families alike — and a fresh start in a much-improved space they can once again call home.

In Hendon, counter-terror officers have taken over the investigation into an arson attack on a shop in north-west London. Police say the case is being linked to other recent incidents in the area, raising questions about whether the attacks are connected.

In central London, a court heard a police sergeant feared her spine had been shattered after she was hit in the back with a sledgehammer. The alleged attack is said to have happened during action linked to Palestine Action, with the case now before jurors.

In Newham, a former council tutor has lost an unfair dismissal claim after being sacked for working several other jobs while signed off sick. The extra work came to light through a blog he had published himself, according to the ruling.

Across London, strikes by London Underground drivers are set to go ahead next week after talks between the union and TfL broke down. That is likely to affect journeys from stations used by commuters in Brondesbury Park, Kilburn and Willesden.

Across London, Tube driver strikes are due to go ahead next week after the RMT accused TfL of failing to negotiate properly. Commuters face likely disruption over several dates, with more pressure on buses, Overground services and roads.

In Trafalgar Square, thousands of people turned out for Vaisakhi celebrations marking Sikh heritage, faith and community. The event brought performances, speeches and stalls into the centre of London for one of the capital’s major cultural gatherings.

In Soho, Berwick Street’s vinyl heritage is back in focus as Record Store Day returns for 2026. The guide revisits the area’s music history and highlights where collectors and casual browsers can still find London’s best-known independent record shops.

In Kensington Gardens, police have finished testing suspicious items after claims linked to an alleged attack near the Israeli embassy. Officers say no hazardous substances were found, bringing the security operation in west London to a close.

In Stratford, the legacy of the 2012 Olympics is still reshaping the area through major investment, new homes and transport links. The BBC looks at how a part of east London once written off has been transformed over the past decade.

In Westminster, the row over Peter Mandelson’s security vetting has deepened after former foreign secretary James Cleverly said David Lammy must have known. The claim adds to mounting questions over what ministers were told and when.

In Britain, historian Anna Keay has been appointed as the official biographer of Queen Elizabeth II. She is expected to interview members of the Royal Family as part of the project, giving the book unusual access and significance.

In north London, Tottenham suffered a painful result against Brighton that has sharpened concern over the club’s direction. The setback leaves supporters facing more uncertainty as pressure grows around performances and results.

Former Foreign Office chief Sir Olly Robbins is expected to be grilled by the Foreign Affairs Committee on Tuesday.

The city has also been named among the top 25 global destinations to visit in 2026.

A London woman is offering a remarkable helping hand by raffling off her £370,000 flat for just £5 a ticket, hoping to give someone a life-changing chance to get on the property ladder. In a city where buying a home can feel out of reach for so many, it’s a generous and genuinely heartening idea aimed at opening the door for the next generation.

Across Nottinghamshire, major rail disruption left some passengers stuck on trains for more than eight hours after an incident hit services. For Radcliffe on Trent commuters using nearby stations, it is the sort of network chaos that can spill into weekend and Monday travel plans.

Nottinghamshire is set for a dry and fairly bright Sunday, with sunshine early on before patchy cloud builds later in the day. In Radcliffe on Trent and nearby villages, the evening is expected to turn cooler but stay settled.

Across the East Midlands, nearly £3 million is being invested in museums, libraries and arts venues to improve public access to culture. The funding could support projects used by residents in Rushcliffe and the wider Nottinghamshire area as councils and organisations decide where the money goes.

Clifton saw a police cordon and bomb disposal team called in after reports of a suspicious package. The item was later made safe and the cordon stood down, but the incident caused disruption for several hours.

In Nottinghamshire, a Japanese company is considering a £60 million project for its new UK headquarters. The proposal is being pitched as a boost for regeneration and could create more than 100 jobs if it goes ahead.

The road has been closed by police

The crash involved a bus, a car and the 11-year-old boy on his bicycle

Rob was born with an atrial septal defect in his heart and had his first open heart surgery when he was just 18 months old

Residents in Sherwood have something lovely to celebrate, with the newly refurbished library now reopened and ready to welcome the community back in. It’s a heartening local boost — a refreshed space for reading, learning and meeting others that should serve the area for years to come.

Southsea seafront’s temporary refuge for Brent geese is being taken down after being installed to protect overwintering birds during coastal defence works. The change marks the next phase of the project and highlights how construction is continuing to reshape parts of the shoreline.

Across the south, dozens of state secondary schools are entering the new Knight-Stokes Cup in a push to widen access to cricket. Organisers say the competition could help bring more pupils into the sport through school-based matches rather than private club pathways.

Across southern England, reports of escaped and unexpected animals have ranged from capybaras and skunks to snakes and wallabies. The round-up captures some of the strangest recent sightings in the region and where they turned up.

In London, the government is due to host a summit on Monday focused on keeping children safe online as AI tools become more widespread. The meeting is expected to bring together ministers and experts as pressure grows for stronger safeguards around apps, platforms and generated content.

In the Strait of Hormuz, oil prices fell after Iran said the key shipping route would remain open for commercial vessels during the ceasefire period. The move matters in the UK because lower crude prices can ease pressure on fuel and wider business costs if the change holds.

In Britain, historian Anna Keay has been appointed as the official biographer of Queen Elizabeth II. She is expected to interview members of the Royal Family as part of a major new account of the late Queen’s life and reign.

In Cumbria, volunteers are raising funds to continue restoring one of the UK’s rare temperate rainforest habitats. Supporters say the work is important for biodiversity and long-term protection of a fragile environment that survives in only a few places.

Former Foreign Office chief Sir Olly Robbins is expected to be grilled by the Foreign Affairs Committee on Tuesday.

A lovely community spirit is in bloom in Sway, where the gardening club and local residents are opening their gardens to visitors in aid of charity. It’s the sort of simple, heartwarming event that brings neighbours together, celebrates local pride and turns beautiful outdoor spaces into something that benefits others too.

Across Derby and Derbyshire, a fresh round-up shows where petrol and diesel are currently cheapest as pump prices stay high. For drivers around Belper and the wider DE56 area, it offers a practical snapshot of which forecourts could save you money this weekend.

In Derbyshire, concerns are mounting over a road crossing outside a school, with the head warning that a serious accident may happen before improvements are made. The row centres on whether enough is being done to protect pupils and families at busy times of day.

A park was closed for several hours today

The road has been closed by police

Rob was born with an atrial septal defect in his heart and had his first open heart surgery when he was just 18 months old

Sunday 19 April will be a dry and fairly bright day overall, with plenty of sunshine early on, some patchy cloud developing through the afternoon, and a cool, settled evening. EARLY MORNINGA clear and chilly start with early sunshine. Temperatures rising from around 5°C to 9°C. Light west to north-w

A Derbyshire attraction has been handed funding for vital repairs, giving it a real boost and helping to secure its future for years to come. The team said they were “incredibly grateful”, and it’s lovely to see investment backing a much-valued local place as part of wider support for projects across the East Midlands.

In Nottinghamshire, a Japanese firm is considering the county for a new UK headquarters in a project worth £60 million. The proposal is being pitched as a boost for regeneration and could create more than 100 jobs if it goes ahead.

In Nottinghamshire, teachers are preparing for possible strike action over what unions describe as severe staffing cuts at an academy. The trust says it regrets the distress caused and is still in talks to avoid walkouts.

In Nottingham city centre, organisers behind the new Rainbow Quarter have outlined plans including street parties and a formal unveiling of the district. The project is also being linked to a possible visit from Sir Ian McKellen, adding fresh attention to the area’s cultural ambitions.

Across Nottinghamshire, Sunday is expected to stay largely dry with sunny spells through the morning and patchy cloud later on. It should remain fairly settled, with a cooler feel developing into the evening.

In Bulwell, Nottingham, detectives have issued an image as they investigate a knifepoint robbery targeting a 14-year-old in an alleyway near the town centre. Officers are appealing for help to identify a youth they want to speak to about the attack.

In Clifton, Nottingham, bomb disposal teams were sent to deal with a suspicious package and a police cordon was put in place. The item was later made safe and the incident stood down, but the response caused hours of disruption.

In Nottinghamshire, Reform MP Robert Jenrick has called for North Sea drilling licences to be approved, arguing ministers should move quickly. The intervention adds local political weight to a wider national argument over energy policy, jobs and climate commitments.

In Derby, an 11-year-old boy has died after a collision on Nottingham Road involving a bus, a car and a cyclist. Police are asking for witnesses and dashcam footage from anyone who was in the area just before 6.45pm on Friday.

Across the East Midlands, nearly £3 million is being invested in museums, libraries and arts venues to improve access to culture. Regional leaders say the funding should help revive local institutions and widen participation in the arts.

A lovely boost for Sherwood: the newly refurbished library has officially reopened, giving residents a bright, welcoming community space to enjoy once again. It’s the sort of local milestone that brings people together, with fresh facilities and a renewed hub for reading, learning and neighbourhood life.

In New York, a federal child welfare watchdog is pressing the Office of Children and Family Services to curb isolation and disclose more about conditions in youth detention facilities. The call follows reporting on violence, staffing failures, and oversight problems that could shape how the state handles incarcerated teens.

In Brooklyn, crossword standout Paolo Pasco says interest in puzzles is surging as the American Crossword Puzzle Tournament expands to a larger venue in Philadelphia. His view offers a window into why a once-niche hobby is drawing bigger crowds and a younger audience.

At Madison Square Garden in Manhattan, Karl-Anthony Towns delivered the kind of volatile, high-impact performance that can swing a playoff game in either direction. The opener gave Knicks fans a vivid look at both the upside and the risk as New York begins its postseason push.

In New York City, former First Lady Jill Biden bid $35,000 for a walk-on role tied to the hit project "Heated Rivalry" at an LGBTQ benefit. She was ultimately outbid by attendees who each offered $125,000, underscoring the scale of fundraising around the event.

In New York City, the annual Breakthrough Prize ceremony brought together major actors and leading researchers for one of the splashiest science events of the year. The gala handed out more than $15 million in awards, blending celebrity attention with big-money recognition for scientific work.

In Miami and Fort Pierce, Florida, the Justice Department has installed Joseph diGenova, a former Trump campaign lawyer, to oversee a sweeping new case centered on alleged conspiracies by Trump foes. The move raises fresh questions about political influence inside federal law enforcement and could become a major flashpoint in Washington.

In Washington, D.C., confidential Supreme Court memos obtained by The New York Times pull back the curtain on the court’s increasingly important shadow docket. The documents show how justices handled fast-moving disputes over presidential power, offering a rare look at decisions that can reshape policy without full hearings.

Across the United States, public health officials are warning about a renewed surge of carfentanil, an extremely potent synthetic opioid linked to hundreds of overdoses. The drug’s return is alarming because users may not know it has been mixed into other substances, sharply increasing the risk of death.

In Virginia, Republicans are scrambling in the final days before a redistricting referendum that could influence control of future congressional maps. The vote has national stakes because even a single state’s map changes can ripple through the balance of power in Washington.

South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff says the launches happened on Sunday morning from the North's eastern Sinpo area.

A bright spot from the Hudson Valley: Orange County welcomed 95 students from a dozen local school districts for its annual Youth in Government Day, giving young people a hands-on look at public service. It’s the kind of civic experience that can spark confidence, curiosity, and a lasting commitment to helping their communities.

Across Sussex and Surrey, planned engineering work is disrupting Southern and Thameslink services this weekend. Anyone travelling from the TN5 area towards London, Brighton or connecting routes should check before setting off, with delays and altered services expected.

In Eastbourne, police have launched an urgent appeal to find a missing man and are asking the public to call 999 immediately if they spot him. The case has been treated with enough concern for officers to issue a direct emergency response request.

In Brighton, a tourist has been jailed for 13 years for raping a 17-year-old boy in an Airbnb after the teenager became separated from his friends on a night out. The case is one of the most serious heard locally this week and raises fresh concerns about night-time safety.

Across the South East, music fans queued for hours at independent record shops for Record Store Day. The annual event gave a noticeable boost to local high streets, with collectors hunting limited releases from first thing in the morning.

In north London, Brighton and Hove Albion rescued a point against Tottenham with a late equaliser from Georginio Rutter. The 2-2 draw keeps Albion supporters talking after a match that swung sharply in the closing stages.

In London, the government is holding a summit on Monday focused on how children can be protected online as AI tools become more common. The meeting is expected to look at new risks for families, schools and platforms, with pressure growing for firmer action.

Across England, Reform UK is facing renewed scrutiny after two more local election candidates were accused of sharing offensive social media content. The latest allegations have triggered calls for tighter vetting and added pressure on Nigel Farage ahead of the polls.

In north London, Tottenham were left reeling after Brighton snatched a late result that deepens the pressure on Spurs. For football fans, it was another match that sharpened the sense of drift around the club while Brighton left with a statement result.

In Kensington, central London, Kensington Gardens was reopened after police investigated potentially hazardous substances found near the Israeli Embassy. The update will reassure visitors and residents, but it also underlines the level of security sensitivity around the site.

Former Foreign Office chief Sir Olly Robbins is expected to be grilled by the Foreign Affairs Committee on Tuesday.

A lovely boost for local heritage and days out: the heritage railway in Tunbridge Wells has reopened after a bridge installation, with full services now back on track. It’s the sort of news that brings together history, volunteers and family fun — and gives people another great excuse for a scenic trip close to home.