Express and Star
Fri, 13 Mar 2026 08:51:49 +0000Traffic delays on busy motorway in Birmingham after car 'spins around' and lorry 'stranded'
Drivers are being warned to expect traffic delays on the A38(M) Aston Expressway at Park Circus in Birmingham this morning (Friday 13 March).
Fri, 13 Mar 2026 08:39:11 +0000'Do not approach': Appeal for Dudley man wanted on suspicion of theft offences
Police have asked for help in locating a Dudley man who is wanted on suspicion of theft offences.
Fri, 13 Mar 2026 08:27:08 +0000'Call 999 immediately': Man with teardrop and neck tattoo wanted after serious assault in Wolverhampton
Police have asked for help in locating a man who is wanted on suspicion of a serious assault.
Fri, 13 Mar 2026 08:25:06 +0000'Every time it rains there’s a problem': 'Cracked' manhole bursts and floods busy Black Country road after heavy downpour
A "cracked" manhole on Crankhall Lane in Wednesbury burst last night (Thursday 12 February) flooding the road.
Fri, 13 Mar 2026 08:23:50 +0000West Midlands business shut down after raids - here's why
A business in Birmingham has been shut down after its owner was sentenced in court.
Fri, 13 Mar 2026 08:17:26 +0000Six flights cancelled at Birmingham Airport as Middle East war continues and pilots of major airline stage 48-hour strike
Six flights are cancelled at Birmingham Airport today related to the war in the Middle East and pilots of a major airline staging a 48-hour strike.
Fri, 13 Mar 2026 06:00:00 +0000Take a look at historic 19th century photos that capture old-style Shropshire policing by officers with stovepipe hats
Here they are, doing their duty to protect and serve Salopians - Victorian ones, that is.
Fri, 13 Mar 2026 06:00:00 +0000Dudley retro: 17 photos of life in and around the town in 1970
Here we look back at Dudley in 1970.
Fri, 13 Mar 2026 06:00:00 +000011 bygone photos show the Shropshire town once synonymous with horse racing - and it's not Ludlow
With the Cheltenham festival in full swing this week, a Shropshire historian has unearthed some pictures from when a town in the county had a proud horse racing history.
Fri, 13 Mar 2026 06:00:00 +0000Staffordshire County Council remains without permanent leader after three months
A permanent leader has still not been selected to head up Staffordshire County Council – three months after a former Reform UK member stood down from the role.
Fri, 13 Mar 2026 06:00:00 +0000'It’s incredibly special to see our hard work, passion and values recognised in this way,' wheelbarrow company boss says as firm wins family business award
Walsall Wheelbarrow Company has been named Family Business of the Year at West Midlands Business Awards 2026.
Fri, 13 Mar 2026 06:00:00 +0000Plans for bed & breakfast above Cradley Heath social club approved to ‘save it from jeopardy'
Plans to build a bed and breakfast above a social club to ‘save it from jeopardy’ have been approved.
Fri, 13 Mar 2026 06:00:00 +0000'Confidence in Dudley is growing at an incredible pace,' council leader says as borough hosts investment showcase event
Dudley Council is celebrating the success of its latest investment showcase event.
Fri, 13 Mar 2026 06:00:00 +0000Town's Lions prepare for roaring birthday bash with special guests and raffle prizes
A charity group is preparing to mark 50 years in Shropshire town and has been handed a hamper from a local business ahead of its birthday celebrations at the weekend.
Fri, 13 Mar 2026 06:00:00 +0000'Come see how Men’s Sheds bring men together' - your letters, plus a historic photo of a school evacuated over structural fears
Readers share their thoughts on Men’s Sheds, politics, and the future of currency.
Fri, 13 Mar 2026 06:00:00 +0000I would like to see Wolverhampton Council buy Beatties, says business chief, but it still must be demolished
A leading Wolverhampton businessman has welcomed news that the council is considering the possibility of buying the Beatties building - but only if it is demolished.
Fri, 13 Mar 2026 05:00:00 +0000Historic Black Country firm with customers across 50 countries celebrates 80 years of success
One of the world’s leading manufacturers of precision drawn, flat and profile wire is set to celebrate 80 years in the sector when it returns to Wire 2026 next month.
Fri, 13 Mar 2026 02:00:00 +0000'She still belongs as part of this school and her memory is still here': Memory of tragic pupil still honoured by Black Country school on bitter Dunblane anniversary
The headteacher of a Black Country school where a pupil attended before moving and being killed in a school massacre has spoken of how her memory is still honoured and cherished today.
Fri, 13 Mar 2026 02:00:00 +0000Story of 18-year-old killed in West Midlands horror crash with friends being used to prevent other tragedies
The story of an 18-year-old killed along with two friends in a horrifying Shropshire crash is being used to try and prevent other tragedies.
Fri, 13 Mar 2026 02:00:00 +0000'Time to make a stand' - Prospective Sedgley councillor determined to crack down on crime
A prospective councillor in Sedgley is asking residents of the Northway area to let him know when crimes are committed so he can 'sort it'
Fri, 13 Mar 2026 02:00:00 +0000Adventure away from the Black Country into this centuries-old rich West Midlands spa town getaway just over an hour from Wolverhampton
If you're looking for a calming adventure, then at just an 1hr and 10 mins drive away from Wolverhampton, this West Midlands historic town is a delightful treat.
Fri, 13 Mar 2026 02:00:00 +0000CCTV operators reassure cyclists over bike thefts at West Midlands bus and railway stations
CCTV operators in the West Midlands have reassured cyclists who leave their bikes at bus and rail stations they will continue to report thefts to police.
Fri, 13 Mar 2026 02:00:00 +0000Three areas of West Midlands see drop in animal abuse offences despite reports across the region rising - find out where your local area stands
Three areas of the West Midlands saw drops in animal abuse offences between 2024 and 2025, while other areas rose, according to the latest figures. Find out where your local area stands below.
Fri, 13 Mar 2026 02:00:00 +0000Residents of 'forgotten' Birmingham estate issue election warning to planning bosses amid regeneration fears
Residents in a ‘forgotten’ Birmingham estate have issued a warning to ‘decision-makers’ ahead of a critical election in May.
Fri, 13 Mar 2026 02:00:00 +00008 cute and delightful dogs in the Midlands waiting to find forever homes in Dogs Trust Kennels
Adorable dogs at the Dogs Trust Kenilworth and Loughborough are looking for loving homes in the Midlands.
Fri, 13 Mar 2026 02:00:00 +0000Neo Graham murder trial: Wolverhampton man 'didn't realise the gun in the car was loaded', jury told
The jury in the alleged drive by shooting of Neo Graham in Wolverhampton have been played footage of the moment the gun was fired.
Fri, 13 Mar 2026 02:00:00 +0000'Massacre of the angels': How the Express & Star reported on the horror of the Dunblane tragedy
It is 30 years to the day since a lone gunman targeted a primary school in Dunblane, massacring 16 children and a teacher, before turning the gun on himself.
Fri, 13 Mar 2026 02:00:00 +0000'I will never forget reporting on the tragedy - it still sends a shiver down my spine' - Ex-West Midlands reporter remembers Dunblane massacre on 30th anniversary
Today marks 30 years since the UK's deadliest firearms atrocity and it is a date that, for ex-Express & Star reporter Boris Worrall, will be forever etched in his mind.
Thu, 12 Mar 2026 20:46:11 +0000Police appeal to identify man after assault in Birmingham nightclub
West Midlands Police have released a photo of a man they wish to speak to after another man was assaulted in Birmingham - do you recognise him?
Thu, 12 Mar 2026 19:53:34 +0000Staffordshire runners save man’s life after sudden medical emergency during morning session
A man is alive today thanks to the quick actions of fellow runners during an early-morning club session in Cheslyn Hay and Great Wyrley.
Thu, 12 Mar 2026 19:07:31 +0000Cockroach-infested fried chicken shop in Dudley ordered to pay £7,000 for food hygiene and gas safety breaches
Environmental health inspectors visited a Black Country fried chicken takeaway to find it infested with cockroaches and using an unlawful gas supply.
Thu, 12 Mar 2026 19:07:12 +0000'We're having a smashing day': Thousands travel to the renowned Black Country Living Museum for free entry day
Thousands travelled to the region's heritage museum today (Thursday 12 March) to make the most of the free entry day.
Thu, 12 Mar 2026 19:02:28 +0000'It is essential not to demonise all young men' - Birmingham expert warns amid viral Louis Theroux: Inside the Manosphere documentary release on Netflix
A University of Birmingham professor has issued a warning to Netflix viewers following the release of Louis Theroux's latest documentary 'Inside the Manosphere'.
Thu, 12 Mar 2026 18:25:41 +0000'His words belonged to everyone' - Life of poet Benjamin Zephaniah celebrated with City of Birmingham Medal
The life of poet Benjamin Zephaniah has been celebrated with a posthumous presentation of the City of Birmingham Medal.
Thu, 12 Mar 2026 18:11:37 +0000Man remains in hospital after Smethwick shooting as two held by police
A 19-year-old man remains in hospital with serious leg injuries following a shooting in Smethwick in the early hours of Wednesday morning.
Thu, 12 Mar 2026 17:48:29 +0000Slovakian 'doomsday prepper' jailed after gun and ammunition parts found in West Midlands home
A Slovakian national with a fascination for firearms was sentenced in Birmingham after a gun and equipment to manufacture live ammunition were found at his West Midlands home.
Thu, 12 Mar 2026 17:45:00 +0000Fieldfisher opens doors to its new home at Paradise Birmingham
The Birmingham office for European firm Fieldfisher hosted clients, partners, and the local business community to celebrate the opening of its new 12,000 sq ft office space at Two Chamberlain Square, in the city’s £1.2bn Paradise development.
Thu, 12 Mar 2026 17:00:00 +0000Teenage Wednesfield cricket star makes more history in The Hundred auction
Wednesfield cricket star Davina Perrin has described her excitement after making more history by becoming the first player sold in The Hundred auction.
Thu, 12 Mar 2026 16:40:10 +0000Oscars 2026: All you need to know ahead of the biggest night in Hollywood
The biggest party in Hollywood is back, and we’re here to escort you all the way down the red carpet. Here's all you need to know ahead of the 98th Academy Awards.
Thu, 12 Mar 2026 16:17:43 +0000Travelling into Wolverhampton and confused by a 'Bostin' sign? Here's what it's all about ahead of important city development
People travelling into and out of Wolverhampton on rail services might be noticing a sign that means something to some people, but could be confusing to others.
Thu, 12 Mar 2026 16:08:57 +0000'Luckily my daughter is fine - but it could have been so much worse' - Passengers call for answers after bus engine explodes in Dudley
Commuters in Dudley have called for answers after the engine of a bus they were travelling on exploded, filling the vehicle with dangerous smoke.
Thu, 12 Mar 2026 15:53:31 +0000HM Passport Office warning: British tourists travelling to Europe with children urged to check their passports
A new alert has been issued by HM Passport Office for Brits travelling with children to Europe this spring and summer
Thu, 12 Mar 2026 15:48:31 +0000Ferrari’s Amalfi gains new drop-top Spider version
V8-engined 2+ has a similar overall look to the standard coupe.
Thu, 12 Mar 2026 15:37:00 +0000Reform 'could influence local elections', warns Conservative Party chairman during visit to Dudley
A leading Conservative MP says Reform UK could influence local elections but warned against trusting the new kids on the political block.
Thu, 12 Mar 2026 15:30:00 +0000History comes alive at Colton with special evening
Rugeley & District Lions Club recently hosted a memorable evening of history at the beautiful medieval St Mary’s Church in Colton, where guests were treated to a captivating performance by historian and performer Lesley Smith portraying Queen Eliza...
Thu, 12 Mar 2026 15:19:06 +0000We discovered the secrets behind some of the tastiest steak dishes in Birmingham at a hidden gem restaurant meat lovers won’t want to miss
Birmingham is having a bit of a moment with steak - there are so many first class restaurants serving some incredible meaty dishes and more on the way. But there’s one hidden gem meat lovers really won’t want to miss
Thu, 12 Mar 2026 15:16:43 +0000'You don't expect things like this outside your front door' - Smethwick residents shock after second violent incident in two days leaves two people seriously injured
A second violent in as many days on the streets of a Black Country town has left residents wondering about how safe their area is.
Thu, 12 Mar 2026 14:30:46 +0000Man robbed of motorbike by men ‘brandishing a machete’ near Bridgnorth
Police are investigating after a man says he was robbed of his motorbike near Bridgnorth by two men, with one brandishing a “machete”.
Thu, 12 Mar 2026 14:30:09 +0000Wanted man, 36, arrested at Wolverhampton train station after suspected stolen goods found
A man was arrested at Wolverhampton Train Station after being found in possession of suspected stolen goods.
Thu, 12 Mar 2026 14:24:42 +0000Greyhounds take centre stage at Crufts as volunteers promote adoption
Crowds at this year's Crufts had the chance to meet some special four legged ambassadors, as volunteers from Home Run Hounds Greyhound Rehoming Charity came together to promote greyhound adoption on one of the biggest stages in the dog world.
Thu, 12 Mar 2026 14:14:03 +0000Ford Capri range receives updates including new ‘Collection’ edition
Other changes include a new battery pack for the ‘Standard Range’ model, while there is an updated Ford ‘Sync’ infotainment system.
Thu, 12 Mar 2026 13:31:28 +0000Jury deliberating in Burntwood baby death case
The jury in the case of the death of baby Darcy-Leigh Jefferson from Burntwood are deliberating at Stafford Crown Court.
Thu, 12 Mar 2026 13:22:37 +0000Petition to strip Crufts 2026 'Best in Show' winner of title after 'previous animal cruelty conviction' exposed racks up 15,000 signatures in 24 hours
A petition demanding the winner of 'Best in Show' at Crufts 2026 be stripped of his title surpassed 15,000 signatures in just 24 hours after his previous conviction was unearthed.
Thu, 12 Mar 2026 12:30:41 +0000Man and woman seriously injured after reports of stabbing in Smethwick
A man and woman were left seriously injured after police responded to reports of a stabbing in Smethwick.
Thu, 12 Mar 2026 12:24:35 +0000Train timetable for new railway stations at Willenhall and Darlaston revealed - full details here
Railway stations at Willenhall and Darlaston are opening for the first time since 1965 - here’s details on the timetables with the opening dates now set
Thu, 12 Mar 2026 12:22:13 +0000‘Baby Harleen’s murder was devastating’: Police chief speaks after mother gets life for killing daughter in West Bromwich
West Midlands Police Detective Chief Inspector has commented on the investigation in the case of baby killer Zara Arsalan following her conviction.
Thu, 12 Mar 2026 12:18:19 +0000Woman charged with burglary, weapons and drug offences after police called to break-in at Birmingham address
A woman has been charged with multiple offences after police were called to a break-in at a house in Birmingham.
Thu, 12 Mar 2026 12:08:51 +0000Appeals launched for public help finding two missing Black Country men
Appeals have been launched by police as they look to find two people who have gone missing.
Thu, 12 Mar 2026 12:00:00 +0000'The countdown is officially on for the brilliant Walsall Works Expo' - town set to host one of the Black Country’s biggest job fairs
One of the biggest job fairs in the Black Country is set to take place next week.
Thu, 12 Mar 2026 11:55:26 +0000Inmate Anthony Russell appears in crown court charged with Ian Huntley’s murder
An inmate has appeared before a crown court judge after he was charged with the prison murder of Soham killer Ian Huntley.
Thu, 12 Mar 2026 11:54:58 +0000Volkswagen ID.3 to gain new ‘ID.3 Neo’ nameplate for model’s upcoming refresh
The ID.3 Neo will be revealed next month and will feature lots of exterior and interior design upgrades.
Thu, 12 Mar 2026 11:52:08 +0000'She was brilliant, a glimpse into the future': Humanoid robot chats with residents at Black Country care home
The robot interacted with residents and answered their questions
Thu, 12 Mar 2026 11:49:30 +0000Mother given life sentence for murder of baby girl in West Bromwich - judge describes 'act of extreme and ferocious violence'
A woman has been jailed for life for the killing of her two-month-old daughter in West Bromwich
Thu, 12 Mar 2026 11:34:20 +0000NSCG Next Steps Fayre helps students plan their futures
This week, NSCG Stafford College hosted its annual Next Steps Fayre, giving students the opportunity to explore a wide range of future career pathways.
Thu, 12 Mar 2026 11:22:26 +0000Compton Care chosen as charity of the year by local business
Landscaping company Codsall Driveways & CobbleCrete, specialists in pattern-imprinted concrete, has announced its Charity of the Year and says it looks forward to giving back to the local community and supporting an organisation that makes a meaningf...
Thu, 12 Mar 2026 11:14:24 +0000Political opinion: Halesowen MP backs new plan to strengthen community cohesion and pride in place
Local Labour MP Alex Ballinger has welcomed the government’s new strategy to strengthen community cohesion and resilience across the country, saying the plans will help bring people together and protect communities from division.
Thu, 12 Mar 2026 11:05:39 +0000Appeal to identify men after attempted motorbike theft in Dudley
An appeal has been launched to find two men seen on camera attempting to steal a motorbike from a driveway.
Thu, 12 Mar 2026 11:00:22 +0000Police continue to investigate Darlaston disorder as four remain in hospital
Police are continuing to investigate after four men suffered stab wounds during disorder in Darlaston
Thu, 12 Mar 2026 11:00:00 +0000Darlaston and Willenhall railway stations to open for the first time since 1965 - here's a look at the events leading up to their reopening
Plans to reopen railway stations in Darlaston and Willenhall stretch back almost ten years - now an opening date has been announced. Here's a look back at the key stages of the project
Thu, 12 Mar 2026 10:55:12 +0000MG reveals its first seven-seater with the MGS9 SUV
The MGS9 will be the firm’s flagship model and will be equipped with a plug-in hybrid powertrain.
Thu, 12 Mar 2026 10:51:52 +0000West Midlands Metro announces temporary change to service for 'familiarisation training' for drivers
Metro passengers have been advised of a temporary change to services to help drivers familiarise themselves with a new route extension.
Thu, 12 Mar 2026 10:30:14 +0000Dudley's top six pubs ranked according to the Campaign for Real Ale, including the pub of the year
One of the Black Country's best-known brewery taps has been voted Dudley and South Staffordshire's pub of the year.
Thu, 12 Mar 2026 10:25:07 +0000Bentley reveals flagship Bentayga ‘Artenera Edition’
The new variant will be available with a V6 hybrid in standard-wheelbase and a V8 in long-wheelbase guise.
Thu, 12 Mar 2026 09:54:09 +0000Pupils reach for the stars with rocket-building challenge
Pupils at Lift Four Dwellings Primary, in Quinton, enjoyed a day of space-themed learning as they designed, built, and tested their own rockets.
Thu, 12 Mar 2026 09:29:49 +0000Sandwell teen shines at county swimming championships
Fourteen year old Max Steele delivered an outstanding series of performances at this year’s Worcester Swimming Associations County Championships, held across three weekends in January and February.
Thu, 12 Mar 2026 09:27:49 +0000Woman charged with theft offences after Rowley Regis store targeted multiple times
A woman has been charged with multiple theft offences from one store.
Thu, 12 Mar 2026 09:26:58 +0000Wolverhampton care service celebrates World Book Day
Cygnet Sedgley House celebrated World Book Day 2026 with staff and residents dressing up to taking part in the festivities.
Thu, 12 Mar 2026 09:25:59 +0000Midlands man travelled the world scattering his fiancée's ashes
When Adam Mould lost his fiancée Annie to cancer four years ago, the grief was overwhelming. Adam, from Birmingham, had spent 12 years building an incredible life with Annie, filled with shared interests, laughter, and a love for exploring the world...
Thu, 12 Mar 2026 09:15:55 +0000e.l.f. Cosmetics have just launched new concealer and foundation duo for only £10
e.l.f. Cosmetics has just launched a deal which means you can get a concealer and foundation from their brand new Soft Glam collection for only £10.
Thu, 12 Mar 2026 09:14:55 +0000Cradley Library marks 90th birthday with week of events
Cradley Library is marking the week of its 90th birthday with a series of special events.
Thu, 12 Mar 2026 09:12:15 +0000Rail services halted after person dies following medical emergency near Staffordshire railway line
Rail services were forced to halt after a person was found by emergency services near railway lines in Staffordshire.
Thu, 12 Mar 2026 08:52:25 +0000Rugeley Lions out in force for Marie Curie
Members of Rugeley & District Lions Club were out in force on March 4, collecting donations in support of the Marie Curie charity.
Thu, 12 Mar 2026 08:31:00 +0000'A huge victory': Walsall Leather Museum building gets listed status on same day closure date and new home revealed
The Walsall Leather Museum has been awarded Grade II Listed status by Historic England.
Thu, 12 Mar 2026 08:06:07 +0000Proud dad Jack Osbourne celebrates the birth of his newborn daughter named after his dad Ozzy
Jack Osbourne has proudly posted about the birth of his newborn daughter on social media and his named her after his Birmingham dad, Ozzy
Thu, 12 Mar 2026 08:03:51 +0000Drone hits luxury residential building in Dubai sparking fire and evacuations
In the early hours of Thursday morning (12 March) in Dubai, a drone hit a luxury residential building sparking a fire and evacuations.
Thu, 12 Mar 2026 08:00:00 +0000Former Wolves winger Adam Hammill swaps boots for boxing gloves - teaming up with ex-Molineux keeper
Wolves’ double-header with Liverpool was one which Adam Hammill certainly kept an eye on. A lifelong Liverpool fan, he enjoyed his only Premier League experience with Wolves. Now though, his focus is fixed on a very different sport, as he tells Pau...
Thu, 12 Mar 2026 07:49:07 +0000More flights cancelled at Birmingham Airport amid airline strike and Met Office weather warnings
Flights have been cancelled over the past week from Birmingham Airport to Middle Eastern destinations due to the conflict in the region - but today (Thursday 12 March) more routes have been axed due to other issues.
Thu, 12 Mar 2026 07:38:30 +0000Signal failure causes rail disruption in the West Midlands with delays and cancellations
The issue is believed to be affecting signalling equipment
Thu, 12 Mar 2026 07:34:01 +0000Four Black Country cocaine dealers jailed for £1 million County Lines operation across the West Midlands
Three men and a woman from the Black Country have been jailed for more than 25 years for their part in a £1m County Lines cocaine operation
Thu, 12 Mar 2026 06:00:00 +0000Shropshire funeral director returns home safely after being caught up in the Iran War following a New Zealand conference trip
A Bridgnorth funeral director has returned home safely after being caught up in the trouble in the Middle East following a trip to New Zealand where he was speaking at an international conference for other professionals.
Thu, 12 Mar 2026 06:00:00 +0000'It is an incredible opportunity for someone with vision,' owner says as Grade II listed hotel in Stafford town centre put up for sale
Grade II listed town centre hotel Bridgewood House in Stafford has been put on the market.
Thu, 12 Mar 2026 06:00:00 +0000'Scrapping net zero won’t cut energy bills' - your letters, plus a snapshot of early days at Bridgnorth Grammar School
Readers respond to recent debates on energy policy, NHS missed appointments and the role of former political leaders.
Thu, 12 Mar 2026 06:00:00 +0000Comment: How did the Prime Minister miss the warning signs about Mandelson?
The publication of the 'Mandelson Files' do not make easy reading for the Prime Minister.
Thu, 12 Mar 2026 06:00:00 +0000Comment: Government needs to face up to harsh reality of NHS funding situation
The King's Fund report into the state of NHS finances should serve as a wake-up call for ministers, administrators, and the general public alike.
Thu, 12 Mar 2026 06:00:00 +0000Cheers! One of the Black Country's biggest beer festivals returns for its 40th anniversary
One of the biggest and most popular beer festivals in the Black Country returns this year for its 40th anniversary.
Thu, 12 Mar 2026 06:00:00 +0000Decision delayed on new Wolverhampton restaurant’s premises licence
A new Wolverhampton restaurant will have to wait another month for a decision on its premises licence.
Thu, 12 Mar 2026 05:44:57 +0000Update on Birmingham New Road lane closure due to emergency gas works
Drivers are being warned of delays after emergency gas works led to a lane closure on Birmingham New Road.
Thu, 12 Mar 2026 05:27:20 +0000Staff at temporarily closed Black Country animal sanctuary 'take time' over sad announcement
Thu, 12 Mar 2026 04:29:37 +0000Watch: Thick smoke pours from Dudley bus as firefighters battle blaze
Passengers were forced to flee a bus after it caught fire on a road in Brierley Hill, with thick smoke pouring from the vehicle as firefighters rushed to tackle the blaze.
Thu, 12 Mar 2026 02:00:00 +00009 attractions in the West Midlands offering free entry on Mother's Day
We have rounded up nine brilliant attractions in the West Midlands that are offering free entry on Mother's Day.