Sandwell Council has approved plans to demolish the former Perry Hill Tavern in Oldbury, ending its use as a focal point for crime and disturbance. New housing is planned for the site. Read the full story.
Charis Boyce explains how a childhood encounter with death led her to become a qualified funeral arranger and embalmer, finding peace and purpose in supporting the bereaved.
State pensioners with a two-digit 'M1' tax code may be owed thousands in emergency tax refunds from HMRC. Learn how to check your code and claim back an average of £3,539.
Low-income state pensioners in Cheshire West and Chester are eligible for a £100 payment from the Household Support Fund. A bank verification check is required for applications.
Andrew McNab, 40, has been given a suspended sentence and a five-year Criminal Behaviour Order after a 'nasty and unprovoked' assault on a police officer in Telford. Read the full details of the ban.
A watchdog committee hears emotional testimony alleging Dudley Council social workers lied and ignored vital emails concerning child protection. Read the full investigation.
Three men convicted for violent disorder at a Derby Kabaddi tournament, an event that sparked the subsequent murder of DPD driver Aurman Singh. Read the full court details.
An Oxfordshire IT manager saved a 70-year-old family oak tree, transforming it with beer caps and resin into a stunning table. His DIY project, using tools under £65, created a new centrepiece. Read the inspiring story of upcycling and family legacy.
A parliamentary petition calls for the state pension age to be lowered to 60, as experts warn raising it to 71 would condemn millions to poverty. Read the full story.
A new petition urges the DWP to apply the Triple Lock increase equally to both pension types, arguing the current gap is unfair. Chancellor confirms commitment.
Motorists are warned not to leave presents in vehicles this December as thieves target cars. Experts reveal insurance may not cover stolen gifts. Read for vital safety tips.
A think tank warns the Autumn Budget's welfare changes create a huge disparity, where non-working families could receive more than those in work. Read the full analysis.
Erica Crompton explains why claiming benefits leaves her better off than a taxed wage, as the DWP faces a major welfare shake-up under Labour. Read her full story.
A 39-year-old man from Staffordshire secretly placed a tracking device in his ex-partner's bag to spy on her. He received a community order. Read the full story.
A 123-year-old pub clock in a historic Midlands market town is telling time again after a £6,000 restoration. Discover the story behind this community landmark.
Struggling with home repairs? Find peace of mind with Checkatrade's network of 50,000+ professionals, vetted through 12 checks and backed by a £1,000 guarantee.
Winter storms can turn a loose tile into major internal damage. Learn how to spot issues early and connect with vetted, guaranteed roofers to protect your home.
A small plumbing leak can quickly escalate into major water damage. Learn why acting fast is crucial and how to connect with vetted local plumbers for a free, no-obligation quote.
Damp in your home is a serious issue. Learn why early action is crucial for your property and health, and how to find a vetted specialist with a 12-month guarantee.
As nights draw in, faulty lighting poses risks. Discover why hiring a vetted electrician through Checkatrade is essential for safety, with a 12-month guarantee on work.
Blocked gutters can cause serious damp and structural damage. Protect your home this autumn by getting them cleared by a vetted specialist with a 9/10 average rating and a £1,000 guarantee.
A Mercedes driver deliberately ploughed into students outside a Birmingham nightclub, a court hears. One victim suffered catastrophic injuries. Read the full trial details.
Food banks across the West Midlands brace for a severe winter surge in demand, with over 61,000 parcels distributed last year. Donations struggle to keep pace as vulnerable groups face rising costs.
A murder investigation is underway in Birmingham after a man's body was discovered in a Perry Barr HMO. Three people have been arrested. Police urge witnesses to come forward.
A Warwickshire Police officer faces three theft charges for alleged offences while on duty. Pc Robert Davies will appear in court this week. Read the full details.
West Midlands Police are appealing for witnesses after a teenage girl was assaulted and subjected to racial abuse near the Hyatt Regency hotel. Can you help identify this person?
The 39th Sheffield Scouts Group collected over 12 crates of food and essentials for Burngreave Foodbank. Young volunteers learned about food insecurity while supporting their community this winter.
Morrisons supermarkets launch new 'Talking Tills' nationwide, allowing pensioners to chat with staff to combat loneliness. Part of GMB's 1 Million Minutes campaign.
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.
Millions of UK state pensioners will see a surprise £10 bonus from the DWP this week. Find out who qualifies and how the automatic payment works.