Essex County Council invites residents to share views on the new Joint Health and Wellbeing Strategy 2026-2029. Consultation focuses on jobs, housing, and community health. Have your say by February 3.
Storm Goretti's snow has forced the closure of the vast majority of Birmingham's secondary schools. See the full list of confirmed closures and remote learning plans.
Discovery Educational Trust in Brentwood celebrates a milestone as all its schools achieve Good or Outstanding Ofsted ratings, transforming former struggling schools. Read the inspiring turnaround story.
Remus Horse Sanctuary in Ingatestone issues an urgent Winter Feed Appeal for £2,500 to support over 100 rescued animals during heavy snowfall and rising feed costs. Every donation helps provide hay and emergency care.
TLC Essex invites families to a free Teddy Bear Picnic on 8 March 2026, celebrating 25 years and 4 million teddies given to comfort children in hospital. Book now.
Phoenix FM unveils its packed 2026 schedule with author Dan Pierce, music interviews, and expanded DAB radio coverage reaching London. Tune in for local conversation.
Teachers at 20 schools across the West Midlands will strike for nine days in January amid a redundancy dispute. The Arthur Terry Learning Partnership confirms disruption is expected. Read the full story.
Two men plunged into a frozen lake at Connaught Water trying to save a dog. Essex Fire and Rescue warns of cold water dangers as UK snow alerts continue. Read the full story.
The Silver End Amateur Dramatic Society presents Dick Whittington this January. Join the adventure at Silver End Village Hall. Book your tickets now!
Erdington Hall Primary School celebrates as 63% of Year 6 pupils meet expected standards in reading, writing, and maths, surpassing both local and national averages. Discover the school's winning formula.
Employees at Bellway Thames Gateway raised over £57,000 for Cancer Research UK and £3,300 for local charities in 2025 through golf days, hikes, and other events. Discover their inspiring community efforts.
Rachael Hennigan, Principal of Hugh Baird College in Bootle, receives an OBE for her exceptional contribution to further education and transforming lives across the Liverpool City Region.
Dr Tanya Moore, Essex County Council's Principal Social Worker for Adult Social Care, receives an MBE for services to UK social work. Discover her three-decade career impact.
Community groups and businesses are invited to join the Lincolnshire Wolds Outdoor Festival from 16-31 May 2026. Showcase your services and promote wellbeing in this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Essex Police confirm a man's body has been recovered from Hanningfield Reservoir following a light aircraft crash. Search operations have now concluded.
Louisa Williams, a peer worker at EPUT, uses her own mental health journey to support patients. Discover how lived experience is reshaping care in Essex.
Essex Freemasons delivered a county-wide programme of festive support, from care home concerts to parties for vulnerable children, showcasing their evolving community role. Discover how they're making a difference.
Former England and West Brom striker Andy Carroll, 36, is due in court accused of breaching a non-molestation order. Get the latest details on the case.
Lea Forest Primary Academy in Birmingham's Kitts Green has transformed from an Ofsted 'requires improvement' rating to being ranked among Britain's top 10 primary schools. Discover the school's 'secret to success'.
Health leaders in mid and south Essex urge residents to call NHS 111 for urgent dental appointments, avoiding busy emergency departments. New direct booking system speeds up access to care.
Health leaders in mid and south Essex advise calling NHS 111 for urgent dental issues like severe toothache. New direct booking system provides faster access to 700,000 extra appointments nationwide.
Find out which pharmacies in mid and south Essex are open on Christmas Day for essential medicines and advice. Use the NHS 'find a pharmacy' service for urgent help.
Find out which NHS pharmacies are open on Christmas Day in mid and south Essex for essential medicines and health advice. Check times and locations here.
Hospital staff working on Christmas Day across Mid and South Essex receive hampers as a thank you. The festive treats recognise their dedication and sacrifice.
Network Rail begins vital track replacement near Ingatestone station over five weekends from Jan 10. Expect bus replacements and level crossing closures. Check before you travel.
Major changes to Chelmsford's Chelmer Valley Park and Ride, including reduced hours and new fares, will start in 2026 to improve value for money. Read the full details.
Discover how dedicated staff from Essex Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust are working over Christmas to bring joy and support to patients in wards and care homes across Essex.
Maldon Fields hosted its inaugural Christmas memorial service, offering a reflective space for remembrance. The event was fully booked and raised £5,000 for Farleigh Hospice.
A Midlands secondary school has been ranked among the nation's elite in The Sunday Times Parent Power Guide 2026. Discover which schools made the prestigious list and why.
Chocolatier crafts giant edible coins of Henry VIII and Queen Victoria to celebrate a new banking hub in Essex. Discover the sweet link between cash, history, and Christmas tradition.