The government has announced a £246m funding package for bus services across the West of England. Local authorities will decide how to spend the money on new vehicles, infrastructure, and keeping fares low.
A £264.1 million government funding package will transform bus services in Birmingham and the West Midlands, aiming for lower fares and more reliable journeys. Discover how this investment will impact your commute.
Essex Police announce a zero-tolerance Christmas campaign against drink and drug driving, with targeted patrols and stern warnings about losing your licence, job, and life.
A new Community Litter Hub opens in Wickford, Essex, supporting volunteers tackling litter. In its launch clean-up, over 300kg of waste, including hazardous materials, was removed from just 500 metres of roadside.
Jake Bedson, the new manager of Brentwood Theatre, discusses his vision to modernise the venue and turn it into a creative hub for the whole of Essex. Listen to the full interview.
Plans for a new Wrexham to London Euston rail service are back, featuring extra stops. The revised bid promises improved regional connectivity and economic growth.
Students at Mayflower High School in Billericay have been recognised for completing the demanding Duke of Edinburgh's Gold Award, placing them in an elite national group. Read about their community impact and the MP's celebratory visit.
Witham MP Priti Patel visited Vaycay Luxury Travel to donate toys for Home-Start Essex's Christmas campaign, supporting local families in need. Find out how you can contribute.
A former Premier League and England footballer was arrested at Stansted Airport on suspicion of attempted rape. He has been released on bail until February 2026.
Solihull railway station was unexpectedly locked on December 1, forcing trains to skip the stop. Passengers faced disruption during the morning commute. Read for details and alternative travel advice.
A mother speaks out after her daughter's manipulative abuser, Charles Benson-Clark, is jailed for 6.5 years. Read her powerful message and learn how to get support.
The family of 14-year-old Joshua Travis pay tribute after he was tragically killed by a train in Burton Joyce. Read the full story and community reaction.
A new Diamond bus service, the number 98, will launch on January 4, connecting Solihull to Heartlands Hospital via Lyndon and Sheldon. Great news for local transport links!
The Girls Inspired programme in Essex is helping vulnerable young women escape unhealthy relationships and criminality through sport and mentoring. Discover how this initiative creates positive change.
Discover how Nazila Husanovic-Gladwyn uses her lived experience to support families and improve mental health services at Essex NHS Trust. Learn about this vital role making a real difference.
Local author Sylvia Kent returns to Phoenix FM's Book Club, sharing Essex writing groups and November book recommendations. Hear her interviews at phoenixfm.com.
Discover the inspiring winners of the 2025 Billericay Community Awards. These local heroes and businesses were honoured for making the town a better place to live and work.
MP Marie Goldman advocates for a legal ban on smartphones in schools after hearing from teachers and parents about the damaging impact on children's mental health and learning.
TOWIE stars Joey and Frankie Essex pay tribute to their uncle Greg Essex following his sad passing. Read their heartfelt Instagram messages.
Drivers in Oxford now face paying over £10 to park for less than an hour due to a new £5 daily congestion charge. Discover how this impacts visitors and local businesses.
A planned 20% VAT on private hire vehicles faces a major backlash, with warnings it will disproportionately impact elderly, disabled, and rural passengers. Read the united call to scrap the tax.
First Bus announces complete withdrawal from Cornwall in February 2026, putting 275 jobs at risk due to financial challenges and falling passenger numbers. Read the full story.
Strictly Air Ambulance 2026 is set for March 14 at the Brentwood Centre. The Essex & Herts Air Ambulance charity event features celebrity judges and dancers, aiming to surpass last year's £58,000 raised. Book tickets now!
Join the YMCA Orchestra for their annual Christmas Charity Concert on Sunday, December 7. Enjoy festive classics, carols, and refreshments while supporting the YMCA Cancer Rehabilitation Programme.
Councillor urges investigation into why people avoid buses despite regular services. Research aims to ensure new housing development funds boost public transport effectively.
The Fun Walk Trust's 2024 event raised a record-breaking £121,000 for local causes, the highest in its 23-year history. Discover how this community triumph benefits Essex.
A courageous Essex Police officer died in a collision on the A12 near Ingatestone while responding to an emergency 999 call. Chief Constable pays tribute.
A man was arrested after hurling hot liquid at staff and breaking a window on an East Midlands Railway service. Read the full report on this disturbing incident.
85-year-old artist William Newton discusses his lifetime in art, famous admirers like Madonna, and his new exhibition at Brentwood Library. Hear his inspiring interview and see his work.
A projected £119.8 million deficit in the West Midlands transport budget has been drastically reduced to £38.3 million. Discover the measures taken to secure the region's transport future.