Birmingham 1997: How the city looked in a pivotal year
Step back to 1997 Birmingham. See the city's tribute to Diana, iconic concerts from Ozzy to Oasis, and sporting triumphs. Explore 24 archive photos showing a world before smartphones.
Step back to 1997 Birmingham. See the city's tribute to Diana, iconic concerts from Ozzy to Oasis, and sporting triumphs. Explore 24 archive photos showing a world before smartphones.
A festive café and shop in Ironbridge that celebrated Christmas daily has shut after six years. Owner Kim Warren cites rising bills and high street decline but will continue trading online.
A pair of brazen shoplifters were caught on CCTV singing 'Santa Baby' while stealing from a Worcestershire family shop. Owners Catherine and Patrick Badham were horrified by the festive theft.
Discover which major UK retailers are closing on Boxing Day 2025 to give staff a festive break. Plan your post-Christmas shopping with our complete guide.
Experience magical candlelight concerts at St Paul's Church in Birmingham this festive season. Discover performances of Christmas classics, Vivaldi, and The Wizard of Oz. Book tickets now.
Avon and Somerset Police conclude no further action against Bob Vylan's frontman over Glastonbury chants after CPS advice. Read the full update on the investigation.
Costa Coffee has shut its Greengates crossroads branch in Bradford after a decade. This is part of a wider trend, with a full list of 21 closures since September 2024 revealed.
The music world mourns Chris Rea, who died aged 74. Bob Mortimer and Middlesbrough FC lead tributes to the 'Driving Home for Christmas' singer. Read more.
A consumer expert reveals how to slash your Christmas food bill by hunting for yellow sticker discounts on fresh produce and luxury items. Learn the best times and tips to save.
Hollister has reopened in Birmingham's Bullring, prompting fond memories of its dimly-lit 2011 store. Victoria's Secret is also set for a 2026 comeback. Read the full story.
A must-have children's baking set is now just £4.99 at Home Bargains in Merry Hill, saving over 80% on the RRP. Discover this last-minute Christmas bargain before it's gone!
New data reveals a shoplifting epidemic with over 800 offences going unsolved daily in the UK. Staff face rising abuse as political parties clash over solutions. Read the full analysis.
A Marie Curie charity shop in the West Midlands has been crowned the nation's best after a public vote. Discover what makes this community hub so special and where to find it.
A Marie Curie charity shop in Knowle, West Midlands, has been crowned the UK's favourite. The award, voted by the public, highlights its community spirit and dedicated volunteers.
Disability charity Scope announces plans to close 77 of its 138 UK stores, including Erdington in Birmingham, to save £4 million. Read the full list of closures and the reasons behind the decision.
Disability charity Scope announces plans to close 77 of its 138 UK shops, including in Birmingham, to save £4m. The high street faces rising costs and a shift to online.
A new joint Cake Box and Ambala dessert shop has launched on Boldmere Road in Sutton Coldfield, offering free cakes and a visit from The Grinch to celebrate its official opening.
Discover the exact times to visit Tesco, Aldi, M&S and more for the best yellow sticker bargains this Christmas and New Year. Save money on your festive shop with these insider tips.
A Rugeley man has been convicted after running an illegal pet shop from his council house, neglecting animals including endangered species. Read the full story and learn how to buy exotic pets responsibly.
Several men face court over a sophisticated Midlands car theft ring targeting high-value vehicles. Police recovered stolen cars and parts in a major investigation. Read the full story.
Discover BirminghamLive's ultimate foodie guide for 2026, featuring 26 essential restaurants from cheap bites to luxury dining. Get the list and sign up for weekly food news.
West Midlands Police are seeking two individuals after a shop worker was struck with a spanner during a theft in Darlaston, Walsall. Anyone with information is urged to contact officers.
Digital challenger bank Atom officially opens its multimillion-pound headquarters in Newcastle's historic Pattern Shop, marking a major investment in the North East's fintech sector. Read more.
A second Tamworth shop has been forced to close for three months after being caught selling illegal and counterfeit tobacco. Read how the council and police are tackling crime on the high street.
Acorns Children's Hospice unveils its first retail park superstore at Bescot Retail Park, Walsall. The 10,000 sq ft shop sells furniture, clothes, toys and more, raising vital funds for life-limited children. Discover opening times and how to donate or vo
Discover the ultimate guide to Birmingham's festive weekend before Christmas 2025. From the iconic Frankfurt Market to light trails and pantomimes, plan your perfect seasonal visit.
West Midlands Police have released CCTV images of two men they wish to speak to following a shop theft at an Asda store in Wolverhampton on November 6. Anyone with information is urged to come forward.
A new pop-up shop showcasing work by Solihull College students has opened at Resorts World Birmingham. Gallery in the Glass offers unique art until January 14.
Timothy Little, 44, used a shovel to smash a shop door and threatened staff with a knife during a chocolate-stealing spree in the Black Country. He has been sentenced to over five years in prison.
Milley Middleton, 25, from Leicestershire, turned her hobby into a lucrative business, making up to £1,000 a week selling second-hand finds online. Discover how she funds her Christmas.