A journalist's experience of being pulled over for driving too slowly on a dark, rainy night leads to a reflection on the vital role of police in keeping roads safe, especially during the festive season.
Women in Birmingham reveal the costly 'pink tax' they pay for safety, changing routines after Katie Fox's fatal stabbing. Read their stories and the data on women's safety.
Discover the three main contrasts between Birmingham's huge German Christmas Market and the Cathedral Square craft market. Plan your perfect festive visit with our guide.
A new survey reveals the Birmingham streets women actively avoid after reporting catcalling, assault, and being followed. Calls grow for urgent safety improvements.
UK parents are turning to controlled SIMs like ParentShield for children's first phones, balancing independence with safety amid new online laws and peer pressure. Discover the smart alternative.
A man and his carer were assaulted in Birmingham city centre. The victim, a regular at the German Market, now says he is too afraid to visit this Christmas. Read his story.
From Transylvanian traders to economic impact, we explore the love-hate relationship with Birmingham's sprawling Frankfurt Christmas Market. Discover the facts and share your thoughts.
The new Cotswolds Designer Outlet near the M5 celebrates its first Christmas with festive markets, big discounts, and family activities. Find all your gifts under twinkling lights.
UK safety experts issue urgent warning: charging phones under pillows or duvets can cause overheating and fires. Learn the three must-do safety tips to protect your home.
The DVSA issues a stark warning to all drivers after MOT testers discover perilous defects, including seatbelts repaired with tape. It's every motorist's duty to ensure vehicle safety.
Shoppers are snapping up real Christmas trees for a bargain £10.99 at Home Bargains. Discover the best festive tree deals from Tesco and Morrisons too.
Discover Cheltenham's festive magic with four unique Christmas markets, an ice rink, and independent shopping, just a 35-minute train ride from Birmingham. Plan your perfect Christmas day out.
The Independent ranks Leicester's festive market 12th in the UK. Discover its dates, stalls, and the West Midlands favourites also on the list.
Conservative councillors demand a public safety emergency in Birmingham after stabbings, but Labour says crime is falling and action is already a top priority. Read the full debate.
Kelly Osbourne receives Lord Mayor's Award for late father Ozzy and reveals her family's heartfelt Birmingham Christmas market tradition with son Sidney. Read her touching tribute.
The Independent's guide to the UK's best festive markets features Birmingham's Frankfurt Christmas Market and Worcester Christmas Fayre. Discover dates, highlights, and what makes them special.
A lift carrying airline crew at Birmingham Airport dropped several floors, causing a staff member to feel unwell and delaying a flight to Lanzarote. An investigation is underway.
A 22-year-old man had his arm amputated after it became trapped in a machine at a Kepak meat plant in Merthyr Tydfil. The company is on trial for alleged health and safety failures. Read the full court report.
Discover how Birmingham's Christmas celebrations have transformed over the last century through 26 nostalgic photographs showing festive markets, decorations and community spirit.
Conservatives demand Birmingham Council declare a public safety emergency after violent attacks, but Labour accuses them of 'playing politics'. Read the full story.
Safety experts issue a critical warning to UK households: never plug electric heaters into extension leads. This common mistake significantly increases the risk of fire.
Birmingham's two Christmas markets go head-to-head in our festive comparison. Discover which market offers the best food, gifts and atmosphere this winter season.
Discover five magical Christmas markets across the West Midlands this December 2025. From Birmingham's Cathedral Square to a Victorian market in Sutton Coldfield, find unique gifts and festive fun.
The UK government announces new national minimum standards for taxi and private hire vehicle licensing to strengthen passenger safety. Learn how this crackdown affects you.
Over 50% of UK motorists report issues with blinding headlights, prompting safety calls. Experts urge drivers to get eye tests and demand government action on vehicle regulations.
Merry Hill announces extended Christmas shopping hours, a new North Pole Express with Santa, and a festive artisan market. Plan your visit to the West Midlands centre now!
An 18-year-old suffered a broken arm in a factory incident. Isoma Limited was prosecuted for safety failures. Learn how to prevent workplace accidents.
West Midlands Fire Service issues a 'Fast. Fierce. Fatal.' warning over lithium-ion battery fires after a sharp increase in incidents. Learn how to charge devices safely.
Warwickshire Council plans to spend £500,000 of HS2 road safety funding to permanently keep temporary street lighting on Fosse Way. The move aims to enhance long-term road safety.
Birmingham city centre sees safety improvements with new LED lighting in Rotunda Square and Corporation Street following campaign after Katie Fox's tragic death.