Community
Four Arrested After Severe Flat Fire in Dudley, All Residents Safe
Four arrested on suspicion of arson after a severe flat fire in Dudley. All occupants escaped safely; a man was checked at scene.
Business
JD Sports Closes 24 UK Stores Amid Global Tensions Warning
JD Sports has closed 24 UK stores in the past year and warns geopolitical tensions could raise costs and reduce consumer demand, impacting profits.
Culture
Topps Chrome Gallery: Football Card Art Pop-Up in Shoreditch
A free one-day immersive exhibition in Shoreditch blends football and art with large-scale card displays, installations, and live box-breaking on May 8.
Politics
Only 3 Dudley areas didn't vote Reform UK at 2026 local elections
Reform UK won 22 of 25 seats in Dudley's 2026 local elections, with only three wards not voting for the party. Conservatives and Labour held the remaining seats.
Sport
Health
RNIB: Sight Conditions to Rise 25% by 2036
RNIB warns that glaucoma and AMD cases in England will soar by over 25% by 2036, urging regular eye checks to prevent irreversible sight loss.
EDF AI Bill Explainer Tool for 3.4 Million Customers
EDF launches AI-powered 'Bill Explainer' for 3.4 million customers, following a successful pilot. The tool simplifies energy bills, reducing billing contacts by 5.6%.
DWP PIP eligibility changes considered from autumn 2026
The DWP has issued an update on changing Personal Independence Payment eligibility from autumn 2026. The Timms Review aims to control spending, with 3.9 million claimants currently.
Tameside Dad Urges Over-60s to Seek Mental Health Help
Michael Bates, 63, from Hyde, encourages older adults to seek mental health support after overcoming childhood trauma with NHS Tameside and Glossop Talking Therapies.
WWII Veteran Marks 105th Birthday at Surbiton Care Home
Joyce Greathead, a 105-year-old WWII veteran, celebrated her birthday at Royal Star & Garter in Surbiton with family, friends, and a card from the King and Queen.
