Community
Sandwell shop selling Mickey Mouse tobacco shut down for three months
A Cradley Heath shop selling illicit 'Mickey Mouse tobacco' and vapes has been closed for three months after an eight-month investigation by Sandwell Council and police.
Business
Rachel Reeves Confirms New VAT Rates for Petrol and Diesel Cars Before Exit
Chancellor Rachel Reeves has approved new VAT road fuel scale charges for petrol and diesel cars, effective from May 1, 2026, to April 30, 2027, with rates based on CO2 emissions.
Culture
Beauty, Tech, and Fashion: Holiday Essentials I Never Pack Without
From beauty saviours to clever tech, these holiday essentials are non-negotiable for stress-free travel. Discover the must-pack items that combine style, comfort, and innovation.
Politics
Two Men Charged Over 30 Separate Shop Thefts in Wolverhampton
Two men face charges for over 30 shop thefts in Wolverhampton, with goods worth £25,000 allegedly stolen. Craig Bird and Mark Curtis are arrested as part of a police crackdown on retail crime.
Sport
Health
DWP PIP Caseload Hits Four Million, Sustainability Questioned
PIP claims reach 4 million, raising sustainability concerns. Experts warn against cuts, urging reform to protect genuine claimants while addressing costs and fraud.
Fire in Lozells Spreads to Supermarket After Rubbish Blaze
A fire in rubbish behind shops on Villa Road, Lozells, spread to a supermarket. Three fire engines attended, and police blocked the road. The blaze was extinguished by 4.15pm.
DWP confirms £238 benefit boost for state pensioners
State pensioners could be missing out on a £238-a-week benefit boost as DWP data shows Pension Credit applications have slumped by 36% to 209,735, down from 326,842 the previous year.
Fire forces Birmingham pharmacy closure for over a week
A fire at Five Ways Pharmacy in Birmingham has forced it to close until July 13. Fire crews from Ladywood and Handsworth attended the blaze involving industrial equipment.
DWP £739 Payments for Over 75s in July
State pensioners aged over 75 will receive £739 in July as the basic state pension rises by 4.8%, with weekly payments now up to £184.90.
The Royal Family Quiz: Crowns & Castles
Test your knowledge of the British monarchy, from Buckingham Palace and the Crown Jewels to coronations and royal residences. How regal is your trivia?
