Former Great British Bake Off champion John Whaite announces the closure of his high street bakery, citing intense pressure and a recent accident. The Ruff Puff brand will continue online this autumn.
Manchester's planning committee will make a final decision on two contentious projects: the 752-home Stockton's skyscraper and the Whalley Range mosque marquee. Watch the debate live.
Sandwell Council has postponed a ruling on eight new flats in Great Barr after the developer demolished the former GP surgery without permission. Read the latest on the planning controversy.
Tributes pour in for Tony Little, the beloved Coronation Street extra known as 'Old Kebab Guy', who passed away over the festive period. Read the touching words from his co-stars.
Harleys Fish Bar in Great Barr is Birmingham's sole entry in Fry Magazine's prestigious list of the UK's 50 best fish and chip takeaways for 2026, recognised by mystery shoppers.
The Sunshine Fund announces £8,233.29 raised over Christmas with Stagecoach, despite a depot burglary. The North East charity also launches its 2026 event calendar, including the Great North Run and a haunted castle tour.
A 22-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of theft, dangerous driving and failing to stop after a police pursuit in the early hours. The stolen vehicle was tracked from Great Barr to Handsworth.
Strictly Come Dancing finalist John Whaite reveals he was hospitalised after being struck by a car. The baker says doctors credited his muscular build for preventing a fatal outcome. Read his full account.
Birmingham's New Street is the fourth unhealthiest high street in the UK, with over 36% of shops being fast food outlets or unhealthy stores. Discover the full list and health risks.
Birmingham City Council halts unauthorised car park at The Crown pub, birthplace of Black Sabbath. Campaigners call it a 'small victory' and demand owners refurbish or sell the historic site.
The Great British Rail Sale is back, slashing advance and off-peak ticket prices by over 50%. The sale runs from 6th-12th Jan, for travel between 13th Jan and 25th Mar 2026. Book now!
Birmingham's city centre is set for a dramatic transformation with two major skyscraper developments approved, including a 49-storey residential tower and a 'bold' 41-storey building. Discover the details.
Age UK urges Leicester residents to donate unwanted Christmas presents to its Superstore. The Great Winter Bag Drop raises funds for vital services combating loneliness in older people this winter.
Ahead of the May 2026 Senedd election, Professor Stuart Cole outlines three crucial rail policies for Wales, calling for funding fairness and devolved infrastructure control. Discover the priorities.
Former Little Mix star Jesy Nelson shares emotional news that her twin daughters have Spinal Muscular Atrophy. Read her heartbreaking story and the family's fight.
Viewers of The Masked Singer UK are convinced the Can of Worms is comedian Tom Allen. The clues, from pastries to gardening, all point to the Bake Off host. Read the full story.
West Midlands Police issue CCTV appeal after a woman was punched in the face and robbed on King Street, Darlaston. Call 101 with information.
Major two-year project to upgrade Birmingham's core streets with new paving and lighting begins on January 5. Discover the timeline and how it affects you.
Shoppers are raving about Next's affordable three-pack of leggings, calling them 'great value for money'. Discover the comfy staple and M&S's 'tummy control' alternative.
Three people were injured, one seriously, in a two-car crash at a West Bromwich junction. Emergency services rushed to the scene on Sunday evening. Read the latest updates.
A Sandwell Council committee is set to decide on a new plan for eight flats in Great Barr after the developer demolished the former GP surgery without permission. Read the latest.
The UK Government invites English mayoral authorities to bid for rail control while rejecting calls for Welsh devolution, sparking a funding row. Discover the details and political fallout.
Your complete guide to the must-watch TV specials this Christmas and Boxing Day 2025, from Strictly Come Dancing and The Great British Bake Off to explosive soap storylines. Plan your festive viewing now.
A heritage railway near Birmingham is running special Christmas Day steam trains on a 'pay what you can afford' basis. Enjoy mince pies and mulled wine on a festive journey from Loughborough and Leicester. Book your magical alternative now!
The Great Notts Christmas Toy Appeal, supported by Barratt and David Wilson Homes, will deliver gifts to over 2,000 disadvantaged children this Christmas. Discover how the community came together.
Five men arrested after a violent street fight in Nottingham city centre shocked Christmas shoppers. Police seek witnesses to the Wollaton Street affray.
Shoppers are racing to Asda for massive Quality Street refill bags priced at only £4, offering the best value per 100g compared to Tesco and Aldi. Stock up now for Christmas!
West Midlands Police have arrested three people after a targeted shooting on Great Hampton Row in Birmingham. A man in his 20s is in hospital with serious injuries. Police are appealing for witnesses.
Ordnance Survey reveals the UK's most Christmassy street names, with Noel topping the list. Discover which festive roads and counties are celebrating all year round.
A 1,000-page last-minute report has delayed a decision on a 750-flat Manchester skyscraper for a second time. Meanwhile, a controversial Chorlton redevelopment gets the green light.