Man in court over alleged rape of Sikh student
John Ashby, 32, faces multiple charges including rape and religiously aggravated assault. The case has been adjourned until February 2026. Read the latest from Birmingham Crown Court.
John Ashby, 32, faces multiple charges including rape and religiously aggravated assault. The case has been adjourned until February 2026. Read the latest from Birmingham Crown Court.
John Ashby, 32, appears at Birmingham Crown Court accused of the racially aggravated rape of a Sikh student in Walsall. A provisional trial date is set for April 2026.
Congleton High School in Cheshire is closed for a deep clean following a flu-like illness outbreak causing high student absences. Remote learning is in place.
The Castle Hotel in Bishop's Castle, Shropshire, wins the Good Hotel Guide 2026 Editor's Choice. Discover this perfect winter getaway just 90 minutes from Birmingham.
Discover why Birmingham's historic Jewellery Quarter has been crowned the best place to live in the West Midlands for 2026, with its Michelin stars and major regeneration.
Discover the six West Midlands schools celebrated in the Muddy Stilettos 2026 guide for their outstanding ethos, facilities, and nurturing environments.
Year 5 student Sophie Baverstock from Lightwater Village School secures two bronze medals at the JSKA World Karate Championships in Japan. Discover her inspiring journey.
Birmingham Council refuses 263-bed student block on former Golden Eagle pub site over heritage concerns. Discover the full story behind the decision.
Grace Richardson, 20, makes history as the first openly gay Miss England winner. The student overcame school bullying to claim the crown in Wolverhampton.
A man has been arrested on suspicion of murder after a fatal stabbing on Somerleyton Street, Norwich. Police are appealing for information and have moved residents.
Developer Manner commits to rebuilding Manchester's historic Hotspur Press as a student tower, preserving its heritage after the devastating 2024 fire. Learn about the new proposals.
Wetherspoons partners with University of Birmingham's Guild of Students to open a new affordable pub on campus in 2026, creating jobs and supporting student life.
University of Warwick students evacuated after major fire at Arthur Vick 1 halls. No injuries reported as emergency services contain blaze. Support offered for temporary accommodation.
Discover The Bilash, Wolverhampton's family-run Indian restaurant collecting major accolades from Michelin and AA guides. Experience five-star dining that's putting the West Midlands on the foodie map.
Heart-warming moment as Guide Dog puppies in training formed a guard of honour for Gloucester Hartpury players, highlighting the charity's vital volunteer needs. Support their life-changing work today.
Martin Lewis reveals millions may have overpaid student loans. Discover if you're due a refund and the simple steps to claim your money back now.
Shopping journalist Nisha Mal reveals her top 8 Christmas gift finds from Next's 2025 collection. Discover stylish fashion, homeware and festive presents for everyone on your list.
Discover the nine Birmingham Indian restaurants celebrated in the British Indian Good Food Guide 2025. Find your next perfect curry night in the city!
A pre-Second World War house in Birmingham's Saltley area is set for auction with a shocking £1 guide price, requiring complete renovation. Discover this unique investment opportunity.
Nine Birmingham Indian restaurants have been recognised in The British Indian Good Food Guide 2025, with Opheem and Asha's crowned Midlands champions. Discover if your favourite made the list!
Edge Hill University hosted its third Dose of Nature Walk, featuring Mike Palmer from Three Dads Walking, to promote mental wellbeing through nature-based approaches.
Alma Cullen's new stage play 'The House of Ghosts' reimagines Inspector Morse for theatre. See this fresh take on the classic detective at New Victoria Theatre until November 15.
Plans for a 263-bed student accommodation on the former Golden Eagle pub site in Birmingham have been recommended for approval. The development promises regeneration benefits while acknowledging heritage concerns.
Plans for a 263-bed student accommodation block on the former Golden Eagle pub site in Birmingham city centre have been recommended for approval. The development aims to transform this prominent location.
A historic Manchester complex has been given a new lease of life as a £30m student accommodation project. The 321-bed development sensitively blends 125-year-old buildings with modern facilities. Discover how the past meets the present.
Martin Lewis reveals over 5 million Brits may have overpaid student loans. Learn how to check if you're owed hundreds and claim your refund today.
Surrey Chambers of Commerce launches Quarterly Economic Survey and announces key business events including budget analysis and Christmas networking. Join Surrey's business community.
Two Stagecoach Solihull students, Arushi and Sophie, performed alongside West End legend Kerry Ellis in a dream come true. Discover how their training led to this incredible opportunity.
Two Grŵp Llandrillo Menai engineering students, Lewis Cahill and Kenan Davies-Zorlu, have received national Financial Literacy Improvement Awards for developing their maths skills.
Lancaster University plans to cut over 400 jobs, prompting lecturer strikes and fears from local businesses and students about the economic and educational impact.