Britain may deploy RAF fighter jets to Romania after Russian drone strike
Britain may deploy RAF fighter jets to Romania after a Russian drone struck an apartment building and injured two people.John Healey, the Defence Secretary, said the drone strike in Galati was a sign the Russia-Ukraine war was "spreading beyond" its borders.The UK currently has four RAF Typhoons in Romania on a four-month Nato air policing mission.On social media, Mr Healey said: "Russia’s reckless and illegal actions in Ukraine are spreading beyond their borders. TRENDING Stories Videos Your Say "The UK stands firm with Romania. RAF jets are already deployed to Romania to support Nato air policing. We will work with Nato secretary general to help strengthen that presence if needed."A 53-year-old woman and a 14-year-old boy were taken to hospital after the strike in the early hours, and a further two people were treated for shock at the scene.It is believed they are the first two people to have been directly injured by Russian weaponry inside a Nato member state since it was founded in 1949.Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper said Russia entering Nato's airspace was "extremely dangerous and reckless", adding that Britain stood by Romania and allies.Sir Keir Starmer also condemned the attack and called it a "serious violation".He said: "Time and again, Russia has shown it has no regard for civilian life, for international law or for the sovereignty of its neighbours. That must not be allowed to stand."Two F-16 Fighter Jets and a helicopter were scrambled by the Romanian military in response to the attack from Russia, and emergency alerts issued to evacuate residents of the affected area.Romania's defence ministry identified the projectile as a Russian Geran-2 drone, and claimed the drone was intended to target Ukraine.LATEST NATO NEWS:US planning to slash warships and fighter jets available to Nato in crisisNato scrambles fighter jets as Russia launches devastating wave of strikes on KyivNato ally issues emergency alert and forces children into bunkers as Russian drone sparks panicThe strike has raised concerns over Nato's vulnerability to low-flying, low-cost drones, which are able to evade air defence systems, but can be intercepted by cheap projectiles launched from the ground.Dmitry Medvedev, former Russian president and prime minister, said European countries who militarily support Ukraine should prepare for the war to encroach into their territories.On social media, he said: "Let them prepare themselves - this will keep happening. A war is under way! And citizens of EU states, as the population of countries at war, will not be able to sleep peacefully."This is only child's play so far!"Vladimir Putin also weighed in on the crash, suggesting it could have been a Ukrainian drone."No one can say what the origin of this or that drone is until an examination has been carried out," he said at a news conference in Kazakhstan on Friday.Mark Rutte, Nato's chief, said: "Russia’s reckless behaviour is a danger to us all. Last night showed yet again that the implications of their illegal war of aggression don’t stop at the border."And Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said his country was "ready to support" Romania. Our Standards: The GB News Editorial Charter
Drivers to see 50mph speed limits launched on M5 for three years impacting 100k motorists daily
Drivers using the M5 have been warned they will face 50mph speed limits for the next three years as major repair works begin on a key motorway bridge. National Highways revealed it will be investing more than £50million to repair and strengthen St George's Bridge, which carries the M5 over a railway line near Junction 21 for Weston-super-Mare.The huge project will involve lifting the bridge 72 times to replace bearings underneath the structure, which allow it to move safely under traffic and changing weather conditions. Engineers will also carry out concrete repairs, replace bridge sections and parapets, resurface the road and improve drainage. TRENDING Stories Videos Your Say To keep traffic moving during the works, three lanes will remain open in both directions, although a contraflow system and 50mph speed limit will begin this autumn until late 2029.Train services underneath the bridge will continue running throughout the work thanks to complex scaffolding and close co-operation with Network Rail. National Highways said the scheme is designed to extend the life of the bridge and reduce the risk of emergency closures in future. It explained that once completed, the work will create a more reliable route for drivers, businesses and freight traffic.The next phase will include filling gaps under lanes, resurfacing sections of the motorway and introducing the contraflow system that will stay in place for the remainder of the project. Terry Robinson, engineering lead for National Highways, said: "Many of the motorways and major A-roads we manage were built around 60 years ago and need renewing to ensure they remain fit for purpose for generations to come. "The St George's Bridge is very heavily used and is now in need of significant work, which is vital to keep drivers safe and the route running into the future." He also admitted the works are likely to cause disruption for motorists and advised road users to allow extra time for journeys, especially during peak hours.LATEST DEVELOPMENTSRachel Reeves' pay-per-mile car tax could create 'postcode penalty' for rural drivers - 'Real danger'Labour accused of making 'little progress' in improving road conditions despite new safety pushDVLA prosecutes widow for failing to insure late husband's car amid calls for justice system overhaulThe bridge improvements form part of the Government's £27billion Road Investment Strategy, which includes £8.4billion for resurfacing roads and renewing bridges between 2026 and 2031. As well as structural repairs, the project includes repainting steel beams underneath the bridge, waterproofing work, replacing barriers and installing a new road surface. National Highways will also widen the northbound entry slip road by adding a second merge lane onto the M5 in a bid to cut congestion around Junction 21. The agency added that keeping the motorway open throughout the scheme would be a key priority during the duration of the project.National Highways said: "The refurbished bridge will last longer and reduce the need for maintenance and repairs over the decades to come. "We're upgrading the barriers on both sides of the bridge, which will improve safety for road and rail users. We're widening the slip road by adding a second merge lane onto the M5. This will help to reduce congestion." The next phase of overnight closures will begin in June, while southbound closures are planned from June 1 to June 26 and again from July 21 to July 24 between 10pm and 6am. Drivers travelling through the area have been advised to plan ahead and expect delays while the long-term motorway upgrade is carried out. Our Standards: The GB News Editorial Charter
Five killed and dozens injured in horrific Virginia bus crash
Five people, including two children, have been killed in a horrific bus crash in the US state of Virginia.More than 40 people have been injured - three critically - after a tour bus first struck a sports utility vehicle on Friday in Stafford County at around 2.35am (7.35 BST), causing a multi-vehicle collision.The bus, which Virginia State Police said "failed to slow for traffic", struck at least six vehicles on Interstate 95 as it was headed to North Carolina from New York.The driver has been identified as Jing S Dong, 48, from Staten Island, New York. TRENDING Stories Videos Your Say Transport Secretary Sean Duffy said Mr Dong was an American citizen originally from China who received his commercial driver's licence, required to drive a bus, two years ago.The bus first struck a Chevrolet Suburban, which was then pushed into an Acura SUV and other vehicles, as the bus itself struck additional vehicles.Four of the five fatalities were from the Acura - which caught fire as a result of the crash.Police have said a 45-year-old man, a 44-year-old woman, a 13-year-old girl, and a 7-year-old boy, all from Greenfield, Massachusetts were killed in the Acura.The fifth fatality was a 25-year-old woman from Worcester, Massachusetts, who was in the Chevy first hit by the bus, police said.The bus was operated by E&P Travel, a North Carolina-based coach charter company, and was carrying about 34 occupants.At least 44 other people - including the bus driver - were injured in the crash, and have been taken to area hospitals for treatment.State police said: "The preliminary investigation indicates that traffic was slowing southbound for an upcoming work zone."LATEST US NEWS:Scientist reveals ‘critical’ setback for Jeff Bezos’s Blue Origin after dramatic rocket explosionTrans athlete left 'crushed' after controversial podium rule introduced in AmericaMassive network of tunnels beneath US airport to be revealed after years of conspiracy theories"A bus failed to slow for traffic and struck six vehicles."State police spokesman Matthew Demlein said charges against the bus driver in connection with the crash were still pending.Southbound lanes were closed for seven hours after the crash but have since fully reopened, Mr Demlein said.Mr Duffy said the administrator of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) and National Transport Safety Board (NTSB) investigators were at the crash site.He alleged the Chinese-born bus driver did not speak English in a statement on social media.The Transport Secretary said: "This is exactly why we are holding states' accountable, enforcing the rules of the road, and cracking down on drivers who can’t speak English."If you can’t be properly trained, read our road signs, or communicate with law enforcement, you have no business driving a bus."Our investigators are reviewing New York licensing records, training documentation, and the driver's history. Any company, trainer, or school that contributed to putting an unqualified driver on the road will face intense scrutiny."On social media, Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger said: "My heart is with the families and loved ones of those who lost their lives, and I am praying for a quick recovery for those injured."The north end of Stafford County is around 40 miles from Washington, DC, and is located near the town of Quantico, home to one of the largest US Marine Corps bases and the FBI Academy. Our Standards: The GB News Editorial Charter
When households should take bins back in on collection day - rules explained
Residents across the UK are being reminded to adhere to local bin collection rules, which generally require waste and recycling containers to be brought back onto private property within a few hours after collection. While there is no national legislation specifying exact timeframes, most councils expect bins to be retrieved within 2 to 4 hours of being emptied, or by 6pm on the day of collection at the latest. This guidance aims to prevent bins from obstructing public footpaths and causing inconvenience in residential areas. Local authorities set their own regulations regarding when bins must be placed out and removed, with variations depending on collection schedules and regional policies. The Local Government Association highlights that leaving bins out for extended periods can block pavements, create unsightly clutter, and pose accessibility challenges for pedestrians, particularly on narrow streets. Some councils have the power to issue warnings or enforcement notices if bins are left out beyond permitted times, especially if they obstruct walkways or present safety hazards. Experts advise that the simplest approach for households is to retrieve bins promptly after collection, ideally within a few hours, to avoid breaching local rules and to maintain community courtesy. This helps ensure clear passage for prams, wheelchairs, and pedestrians. In areas where collections start early in the morning, bins may be ready for retrieval by mid-morning, while later rounds might extend the return window into the afternoon. Regardless of timing, the prevailing expectation remains that bins should not remain on public paths past the collection day. Overall, residents are encouraged to check their local council’s specific requirements and follow recommended timeframes to keep neighborhoods tidy and accessible. Prompt bin retrieval supports public safety, enhances street appearance, and fosters good neighborly relations.
Revive dead plants after heatwave with simple method – not using watering can
A gardening expert has shared a simple yet effective method to revive plants that have suffered during recent heatwaves, advising against the common practice of watering dry soil with a watering can. Instead, the recommended technique involves submerging the entire pot or compost in water for about an hour to rehydrate the soil thoroughly. This approach helps soften hardened soil, allowing it to absorb moisture more efficiently and preventing waterlogging that often occurs when watering from above. The expert, known as Ish, demonstrated the method in a widely viewed TikTok video, explaining that dry soil can become rock hard and resist absorbing water. By soaking the compost or soil until it becomes spongy and pliable, gardeners can ensure that subsequent watering will penetrate deeply rather than run off the surface. After soaking, the pot should be allowed to drain before returning it to its usual spot, helping plants recover from drought stress and improving their overall health. This technique has resonated with many plant enthusiasts who reported success in reviving both indoor and outdoor plants using this method. Viewers shared additional tips, such as submerging pots until no air bubbles emerge from the soil, which indicates full saturation. The method is especially useful during prolonged dry spells when traditional watering methods often fail to deliver adequate moisture to plant roots. As heatwaves become more frequent due to climate change, effective watering strategies like this one are increasingly important for maintaining healthy gardens and houseplants. By adopting such simple yet practical solutions, gardeners can better protect their plants from the damaging effects of extreme heat and drought conditions.
Used car dealership plunges into liquidation after owing £50,000 to Barclays Bank
Flow Motors LTD, a UK-based used car dealership operating in Swindon since 2019, has entered voluntary liquidation after accruing debts exceeding £50,000 to Barclays Bank. The decision to wind up the business followed a meeting earlier this month, with Tauseef Rashid of Qimzen Advisory appointed to oversee the liquidation process. As of March 31, 2025, the company reported assets of £9,561 and owed £6,674 to creditors due within the year, but filings revealed unsecured debts totaling £62,517, with Barclays Bank as the largest creditor owed £50,000. The liquidation reflects broader challenges facing the automotive retail sector, where rising fuel prices and cautious consumer behavior have dampened demand for used vehicles. Other creditors listed include Companies House, the Financial Conduct Authority, Oyster Risk Solutions, AutoTrader, and BT, highlighting the financial strain across various operational fronts. The legal process of liquidation will involve selling Flow Motors’ assets to repay creditors, marking the end of the dealership’s operations. This development follows the recent closure of Cargiant, London’s largest used car dealership, which cited commercial unsustainability amid a highly competitive and price-sensitive market. Industry experts note that while demand for used cars persists, buyers are increasingly cautious, prioritizing value and often delaying purchases. James Hosking, Managing Director of AA Cars, emphasized that the market’s evolving dynamics require dealers to be more efficient and disciplined, with closures underscoring persistent pressures rather than a collapse in demand. The liquidation of Flow Motors adds to a growing list of used car dealership closures, signaling ongoing difficulties within the sector as economic factors and shifting consumer preferences continue to reshape the market landscape.
Burnham allies plan cross-party council to stop a Reform UK government
Allies of Andy Burnham are reportedly planning to form a cross-party council aimed at preventing a Reform UK government from gaining power. The initiative seeks to unite various political factions in opposition to Reform UK, which has been gaining traction in certain regions. This move reflects growing concerns about the potential influence of Reform UK in upcoming local and national elections. The proposed council would bring together representatives from Labour, the Liberal Democrats, and other parties willing to collaborate to block Reform UK’s rise. Burnham’s allies argue that a united front is necessary to counter what they describe as Reform UK’s divisive policies and rhetoric. The plan underscores the shifting dynamics within British politics, where traditional party lines are being reconsidered in response to emerging political forces. Reform UK, founded by former Brexit Party leader Nigel Farage, has positioned itself as a right-wing alternative to the Conservative Party, focusing on issues such as immigration and economic reform. Its growing support in some areas has alarmed mainstream parties, prompting strategic alliances to mitigate its impact. The formation of a cross-party council could signal a new phase of political cooperation aimed at preserving established party dominance. This development highlights the challenges faced by the UK’s political landscape amid increasing fragmentation and the rise of smaller parties. It also raises questions about the effectiveness of cross-party collaboration in countering populist movements. The success or failure of Burnham’s allies in establishing this council may influence future electoral strategies and the broader balance of power in British politics.
UK weather: Brutal end to heatwave in just days as maps turn chilly green and mercury falls to 5C
The UK is set to experience a sharp end to its recent record-breaking heatwave, with temperatures expected to drop dramatically in the coming days. After a prolonged period of Mediterranean-style warmth that saw 23 weather stations break the previous May temperature record of 32.8°C, the mercury reached as high as 35.1°C at Kew Gardens in Greater London. However, the Met Office has forecast a significant cooldown, with temperatures potentially falling as low as 5°C in parts of Scotland by early next week. This transition marks a shift from the intense heat to more unsettled and cooler conditions as a weak cold front moves southeast across the UK. Chief Forecaster Chris Bulmer noted that many areas will begin to feel fresher air from Friday onward, with the weekend bringing more changeable weather, including showers and thunderstorms. Temperatures are expected to return closer to seasonal averages, accompanied by rainfall, particularly through the weekend and into early next week. Forecast maps indicate that by Sunday morning, temperatures could range from 7°C to 11°C across Scotland and England, with Wales and Northern Ireland experiencing similar cool conditions. Despite the initial drop, temperatures are expected to rise again by mid-June, reaching the mid-teens by Thursday afternoon and potentially climbing back into the low 20s in southern England by the evening of June 11. Regions such as the East Midlands, East of England, South East, and Greater London are likely to see the highest temperatures during this rebound. This rapid shift from extreme heat to cooler, wetter weather highlights the volatility of the UK’s spring climate and underscores the challenges in managing public health and infrastructure during sudden weather changes. The end of the heatwave also brings relief from the intense conditions but serves as a reminder of the increasingly unpredictable nature of weather patterns in the region.
Pair jailed over 139mph Manchester crash that killed pedestrian
Uways Hussain and Usmon Mahmood have been sentenced to lengthy prison terms following a fatal collision in Manchester that claimed the life of 50-year-old Sylvester Abayomi. The pair were travelling at speeds of up to 139mph in a 30mph zone while inhaling nitrous oxide when they ran red lights and weaved through traffic before hitting Abayomi at the junction of Green End Road and Kingsway. The crash occurred at around 4:30am, and both men were later convicted of offences related to causing death by dangerous driving. Hussain, the driver, received an 11-year and eight-month sentence after pleading guilty to causing death and failing to provide a specimen, while Mahmood, the passenger, was jailed for 12 years and nine months for aiding and abetting causing death. Court footage showed the reckless driving and the moments leading up to the collision, including the men filming themselves inhaling nitrous oxide and encouraging the dangerous behaviour. Prosecutors highlighted that the pair showed no remorse, with evidence of them discussing plans to call an Uber and report the car as stolen to evade responsibility. The victim’s partner, Denise Doyle, described Abayomi as a hardworking man who was simply on his way to work and expressed heartbreak over his death. The judge condemned the defendants’ actions as terrifying and reckless, emphasizing the extreme danger posed by driving at nearly five times the speed limit. Greater Manchester Police noted the sentences are among the longest handed down for a single fatality caused by dangerous driving in the region. Defence lawyers acknowledged the defendants’ backgrounds, with Hussain being a law student employed full-time at an airport and Mahmood preparing to start an apprenticeship with Network Rail. However, the court found their actions to be inexcusable given the tragic outcome. The case underscores the severe consequences of reckless driving and substance misuse on public safety.
Mother of Archie Battersbee jailed for driving motorist off road
The mother of Archie Battersbee has been sentenced to jail after being found guilty of dangerous driving that forced another motorist off the road. The incident occurred on a public highway, where her actions endangered the safety of other road users. The court ruled that her conduct warranted a custodial sentence, highlighting the serious nature of the offence. Archie Battersbee, whose case previously attracted significant media attention, was not directly involved in the driving incident but is connected through his mother. The sentencing underscores the legal consequences of reckless driving and the potential risks posed to the public. Authorities emphasized the importance of road safety and the need to deter similar behaviour through appropriate penalties. This case adds to ongoing discussions about road safety enforcement and the responsibilities of drivers to maintain control and respect for others on the road. It also reflects the judiciary’s stance on dangerous driving offences, particularly when they result in endangering other motorists. The sentence serves as a reminder of the serious repercussions that can follow such actions.