Community
American on Birmingham Train Confused by British Etiquette
An American expat in the UK shared confusion over British train etiquette after a packed journey from Birmingham, where an older couple stared at him instead of asking for a seat.
Business
Brum driver pays £450/month for Peugeot EV that won't charge
A Birmingham driver is stuck paying £450 monthly for a Peugeot EV that stopped charging within two weeks, with the lease company refusing to cancel the contract.
Culture
Alton Towers fan spends thousands on original swan boat from Walsall bar
Jenny Walker, 38, spent thousands to buy an original Alton Towers swan boat from a Walsall bar, transporting it on a lorry along the M6.
Politics
Suspect in Peak District Summer Solstice Murder Appears in Court
Szymon Babynko, 23, charged with murder of Isaac Clare-Watts, 26, at Nine Ladies Stone Circle in Peak District on June 22, appeared at Derby Crown Court.
Sport
Health
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.
HMRC £17 Monthly Tax for Pensioners Over £35,000
HMRC will recover Winter Fuel Payments from pensioners with income over £35,000 via £17 monthly tax deductions starting in 2026-27, affecting nearly two million households.
EACH Summer Appeal for Beach Trips for Ill Children
East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH) launches a summer appeal to fund beach trips and activities for families with seriously ill children, highlighting the need for specialist equipment like beach wheelchairs.
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?
